Holiday! (Celebrate! (It would be so nice...))

Sorry for the late post! Between admin and writing etc, I've only just had time to sit down and write this out.

So, what's new? Well, 'Lay Me Restless' is progressing smoothly; I'm hoping to have the first draft done by the start of August, but, knowing what I'm like with the deadlines I set myself, I'm not holding my breath. Still, even this first draft is reading very well, so hopefully that will cut down on some editing time.

I'm still ironing out the final details for my book signing, but it looks like it should be in August. More details as soon as I have them!

But the main thing is that I'm going on holiday tomorrow with my favourite person in the world! We're going to a small town in Dorset and I'm going to RELAX. I think I've earned it. Between work, admin, promotion, writing, music etc I haven't really stopped this side of New Year, so it'll be nice to just have a little time to let everything settle. Don't misunderstand, I enjoy all of that stuff (enjoy isn't strong enough word for the more artistic sides), but it can be tiring at times. So, for a week I'm going to sit in the sun and read while having a well deserved glass of wine. I'm taking my guitar because music is always necessary and I'll probably end up doing a little writing too, but it will be in the relaxed surroundings of the country.

I'll update any progress upon my return,

Sam

Success!

So, after a couple of weeks off from writing I've had plenty of time to develop ideas and I've pretty much worked out the entirety of the final third of Lay Me Restless. All that's really a mystery to me at the moment is the length of the final sub-plot, which I'm sure I'll work out pretty soon.

I got back to writing today and it's going pretty solidly. I have a really good feeling. No, I'm not going to finish this by my original target date, but I'm going to finish it pretty soon and it's my best work so far. Also, my promotion seems to have worked and I've really raised the profile of both of my previous books, especially 'In the Footsteps of the Behemoth'.

So, in all, a successful few weeks and a few more successful ones ahead.

Sam

The Behemoth

A creature born from the Planet itself, the Behemoth has stunted mankind's progression for a millennium. Its gargantuan size and skin of rock has made it impossible for the human race to overcome by force. Quite why it came into being is much debated. Is it a demon? The wrath of a vengeful god? Or was it born from the Planet as a way to defend itself from the destructive humans? Many have their theories, but, only now that this uneasy alliance hunts the creature, will the truth come to light.

General Grimoire Groan (In the Footsteps of the Behemoth)

Imbued with the gentle but stern wisdom of age, General Groan is a dutiful retainer to Lord Thean and a valuable asset to the Thean House. Though despite his experience, he can often be headstrong and stubborn, sometimes so blinded by his belief in his cause he cannot see the virtues of those who do not further the progress of the Thean House.

                Owing to this, Grimoire can often come across as abrasive, offending those around him with his staunch views. He is a strong believer in justice, doubting any who may have engaged in any activities deemed ‘dishonourable’. But, with so many differing motives in those around him, this may be a characteristic it would be best to be without.

General Distance Valentine (In the Footsteps of the Behemoth)

Approaching thirty, it would be fair to say that General Valentine has risen through the ranks of the Thean House quicker than most would expect, though with his tactical knowledge and skill with a sword, this is understandable. Yet, the pressures of his position seem not to faze him as he takes all obstacles within his stride and maintains a calm demeanour.

                Though this calmness should not lead to any underestimation. Distance believes in this ethics of the Thean House with ferocious veracity, ready to defend his Lord and cause against any attacker. Held in equal loyalty is his friendship with General Groan with whom he displays deep affection, respect and understanding.

Darkla (In the Footsteps of the Behemoth)

Orphaned by an attack by the Riit Clan, Darkla has been raised mainly by Mirr, her life often affected by the warlord clans’ frequent appearances. Her life has been brightened by her relationships with those around her, especially Arvan with whom her friendship is seemingly indestructible. It is this trait, this ability to find love wherever it might lie, that allows her to maintain her cheery disposition and optimistic world view.

                Although prone to pensiveness, Darkla displays extreme strength and bravery in all walks of life, most probably enforced by her difficult life so far. It is this determination and her unwavering loyalty to her friend that spur her newfound sense of adventure.

Great King Eremmerus (In the Footsteps of the Behemoth)

The young and pressured ruler of the Final Resting Place of the Empire, many of Eremmerus’ policies and goals might paint him as something of an antagonist. It’s easy to see why; he is suspicious of all outsiders and aims to unite the continent by bringing the land under his control, by force if necessary.

                That said, he is a ruler who truly does want the best for his people, but the best way to go about that is not always clear. His quick temper could be construed in a number of ways. At such a young age, it is possible that the pressures of ruling a nation are too much for his limited experience; maybe he realises the seeming impossibility of his objectives; perhaps he was driven mad by the violence of the wars of that led to his ascension.

                One thing is clear. If Eremmerus has his way, there will be more war to come.