In less than two weeks, I’ll be turning in the first completed draft of my new book The Ale Boy’s Feast.
As I do, I keep getting the same response from readers: “I was surprised when the conclusion of Raven’s Ladder left me hanging. Is that the end? Isn’t this a trilogy?” The answer is no…
Since its inception in 1996, The Auralia Thread has been a four-story series, running in this order: Auralia’s Colors, Cyndere’s Midnight, Raven’s Ladder, and The Ale Boy’s Feast. The fourth volume will be in stores in January 2011. And yes, that’s the last one – the culmination of stories about Auralia the artist, Jordam the beastman, Cal-raven the visionary, and the ale boy, whose name may be revealed at last.
I spent last week at my favorite writing getaway in the world, writing close to 14 hours a day, following these characters to the frenzy of activity that wraps up the series. It will be difficult to say goodbye, since I’ve had these characters on my mind, watching their stories take shape, for almost 15 years now. But new stories are emerging… stories about new characters and new worlds, and it’s time to pay them a visit.
I hope you’re enjoying the journey. Here are some recent reviews…
Boy am I excited! I’ve loved all your books so far–they’ve been different than any other fantasy series I’ve ever read. Good luck to you in this last book and your future books!
The Ale Boy’s Feast!
(SIGH)
I can’t wait. Wow. Perfect title!
Thinking back to your announcement from April first, doesn’t that mean you only have eleven or twelve books to go?
Yes, Bryan. But those books will be delayed because I’ve just been asked to direct The Hobbit in place of Guillermo del Toro.
I feel ashamed that I’ve owned the third book since the day it came out and still haven’t read it even though I dearly love the first two. What’s wrong with me? Guess I’ve got a new book to read this weekend.
In any case, I’m looking forward to an Ale Boy centered book. After Auralia, he’s my favorite character in the series. Also, I expect some sly allusions to Babette’s Feast.
“The fourth volume will be in stores in January 2011”
Yea!!!
“But new stories are emerging… stories about new characters and new worlds, and it’s time to pay them a visit.”
“yea! Yea” (double ‘yea’)