An update and a recommendation

and, yes, the snippet will come in a separate post later today

Just a quick post this morning because I have “things” to do, including dealing with a plumber and looking for a new oven. Such fun—not.

Final edits on Witchstorm Rising are coming along. I’ve seen a couple of plot bunnies that need to be rounded up and tied off. So that’s what I’ve been doing. I also realized one chapter needed a major rewrite to help with building the tension and setting the stage for what happens later in the book. That takes a bit more time becuase then I have to make sure the changes don’t negatively impact other things in the book that come along later. Whee.

As for a release date, I’m not pushing it. Tentative date is going to be May 17th. I should be able to firm that up next week and will let you know for sure.

So, what’s up next? Don’t laugh, but it isn’t what I thought it would be. I got hit with a story idea for the next book in the Honor & Duty universe and it is not only something I think I’ll love writing but that will be more in line with the series than Warbound Legacy (which, honestly, was more of a bridge book than anything else). Here’s what I’m going to be using as my focus image during the early phases of writing the draft for it.

Finally, and most importantly, my friend Dave Freer has a new book out. Dave’s an awesome writer and he’s been doing his best to put out books that fill a void in the publishing world right now: books middle schoolers and up love to read. Think about it. A book your kid is excited to read and one you don’t cringe reading yourself.

That’s Storm-Dragon. Here’s the blurb:

On the treacherous Vann’s World, Skut battles a savage wind and deadly hamerkops to rescue a mysterious, telepathic creature. Fleeing a rising tide and a menacing Loor-beast, he forms an unexpected bond with the tiny, electric-charged being that sees him as its protector. As Skut navigates the perilous tidal tiers, his impulsive escape from Highpoint Station unravels into a fight for survival—both for himself and his newfound companion.

Podge is the new kid in town, trying to keep his head down. Meeting Skut is about the only bright spot in his introduction to this strange new world. The boys bond over Skut's creature, and trying to avoid the class bullies. This is only the beginning; soon Skut finds his new friends do not ease the growing concerns of the adults around him while the town is coming under a mysterious threat. What can two boys and a tiny storm-dragon do?

Here’s a link to his Amazon author page. You can also find him over at Mad Genius Club.

(Amazon links are associate’s links.)