It’s September so that means it’s probably time for an update. Make sure you’re signed up for my mailing list if you want to be notified of future releases.
Okay, on to business. I’ve been getting questions about when book six will be out since oh, about ten minutes after book five released in June. That’s not a complaint, by the way. It’s heartwarming to know so many of you are excited to continue reading my series.
On that note, first let me reassure those of you who’ve been asking: there will definitely be a book six. While you’re waiting, you might enjoy the discussion happening in the Facebook fan group. Lots of lively discussion happening there, and it might be especially nice for those of you who are more isolated and without a lot of people to chat with about the series. Check out the Pattern of Shadow and Light FB group here.
In terms of timing for book six…well, I’m hoping to return to my two-year release schedule. Excluding book five (which was a real beast to tame, attested to by those of you who were following my progress at the time), it usually takes me about a year to write a book, half a year to edit and prep for press, and half a year to market and publish.
The beginning and end months of those two years are a bit mushy, but that’s generally the timeframe, which, all things considered, is pretty quick for writing and editing upwards of 340,000 words. But by the end of all of that, I’ve usually been mentally out of the world for about half a year.
I’ve found this to be necessary. Otherwise, I just sort of stay stuck in the book that just ended and never want to leave it. You’d think I could just keep writing the next chapter for each character, but in truth, it becomes very difficult to move on.
I think partly this is because a book is its own wholistic story, even though it’s part of a larger story being told. But the book has a beginning, a middle and an end, and it has character arcs and story arcs within itself. Even though I don’t plot all of those out on a whiteboard, I conceive them in my head. So when I get to the final scenes, the book is done, those arcs have terminated at THE END and there is nothing more to write conceptually.
So it’s become a discipline point. I forcibly remove my attention from the book and focus instead on the marketing and release.
While that’s a necessary evil, it also makes getting back into the world a bit like starting an exercise program after two years of sitting on the couch eating ice cream and chips. There’s a sort of negative inertia—at least the inertia of no motion—and it’s quite something to overcome that, creatively.
So the inertia is one challenge. Then there’s the abject terror part of it.
Dear readers, starting the next book in a series of this complexity is daunting. I sit staring at my screen, either not knowing what to write because there are soooooo many characters to think through that when I try to plot out even a couple of them, I get all snarled up; or I sit staring at my screen feeling utterly overwhelmed by how many plot lines I have (only twenty-six viewpoint characters, right? What’s the problem?); or I sit staring at the screen in a state of perpetual apprehension with the lament of “How will I ever make this book better than the last one?” wailing in my subconscious.
Being that I went through this exact phenomenon with books two, three, four and five, you’d think book six would be the charm, but blast it all, here I am staring at my screen again, trembling.
Okay, perhaps the trembling part is a bit dramatic.
Most authors start a book with the all-important first chapter. That chapter has to grab the readers’ attention and lure them into the world. It has to be intriguing and exciting. It has to dazzle!
When you’re writing upwards of thirteen primary viewpoint characters, it’s like having to write thirteen first chapters. Plus, I’ve got to unobtrusively catch you up on that character—what they’re up to, what their mindset is, and what they were doing at the end of the last book—without throwing that update in your face. (There’s nothing worse than four paragraphs of summarized backstory regurgitated from the book you just finished and now inserted into the middle of chapter one. You feel me?)
Then, I’ve got to introduce the conflict for each character in this new book (or at least begin to set it up), and I need to make the chapter interesting and fun to read. I’ve also got to balance whatever happens in that chapter with the overall planned pacing of the book (i.e. I can’t start off every character’s first chapter with all of them philosophizing over a glass of wine; some of them have to be in action whether I want them to be or not). And because the weight of the entire book feels so heavy and overwhelming, it’s difficult to stay interested in writing at all. I just want to go do something that’s easy, like eating ice cream and chips on the couch.
Finally, finding the right setting, the right moment, the right viewpoint in which to bring you back into each character’s story…this is of critical importance. I don’t always get it right at the beginning. I end up writing a lot of first chapters that find their way into the dreaded “Excerpts” folder, never to see the light of the printed page.
But it’s not all doom and gloom and spinning wheels getting nowhere. I have managed to finalize a few chapters. I’ll keep you posted as the book progresses.
I’m very interested in your feedback, thoughts and speculations once you’re through book five. I would love to know any particular story threads you’d like to see more of, or characters you’d like to learn more about. Everything is still on the table at this point. Share your thoughts (and requests!) in the comments below.
Hey… Keep up the good work. I loved your first book and every book after. maybe sometimes a writer is too hard on themselves. I think your doing an awesome job. Keep the story awesome, no matter the timeline.
Thank you so much, Chris. I appreciate your support and encouragement.
I think I’ve read the whole series for the first time since June and can’t wait for the next book! Not sure how I’ll cope 2 years.
Do you think this will be the final book? Not sure what I’d prefer at this point wrapping up the story line or giving us more to read :-).
Love the series and would love to learn more about Cephrael if they eventually turn up. I particularly enjoyed the warlocks coming into the story line and mixing things up a bit.
Cameron, my gut says this is it, but I was expecting originally to complete the story with book five. 😉 I think we’re definitely going to get more with the Warlocks!
the introduction of PoV Baelfeir has been life changing. Instead of this lucifer analog we are given almost a father figure with deep love towards what he views as part of his creation. To see his nurturing side was unexpected. I was…. blown away. He’s already my favorite character of all five books. I want, so much, to see his reunion with Cephreal. Demon lord no longer. Shepherd, caretaker, lover.
Brilliant
I’m thrilled you approve, Michael. From the moment Baelfeir hit the scene, he was surprising to me also. Like you, I’m looking forward to that reunion. It’s a little bit daunting, actually, considering everything that it has to cover. 🙂
Tanis is by far my favorite character, I can’t wait to read about what happens next. So many cliffhangers at the end of book 5. I keep wondering what’s happening in Illume Beliel. Can’t wait for the next book. Keep up the good work.
Thank you so much, Maxwell. Tanis is indeed special. We will definitely get more time in Illume Belliel come book six. Thank you for reading. 🙂
Please I really need an ending to this tale. I’ve enjoyed every chapter, every storyline from the first book to the last, you’ve invested in every character and I can see everyone clearly in my imagination, you’ve given them layers made them three demential characters I can believe in, which I must admit to someone who reads as much as I do not very many modern authors can do for me these days. Carry on and please I’m sure I’m not the only one who needs, an exciting and pleasurable end to the story.
I will definitely be pushing on to finish the story with the next installment, Laura, and endeavoring to tie off as many story threads as possible. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series. Thank you for reading.
Hi Melissa just thought I would pop over to the sight to see how things are going glad to see your getting started I can’t wait for the next book that said no rush needed good things come and all that , I read your update & most of the comments personally for me you can write 2 or 3 more books I don’t want them to end
Ps after the book is done have you any plans to do any book signing over here in the UK would love to get a copy signed & say hi
All the best x
Thanks, Gary. I appreciate knowing you’ll stick with me through future books. I have no plans for book signings but you can always purchase a signed copy via my website. That said, when I’m next in the UK I will let everyone know.
Hi Melissa
I am listening to your books on Audible and thoroughly enjoying them. At 60 and a total fantasy addict I’ve read many many books. These stand out to me as beautifully crafted and satisfyingly complex. There is such a lot going on they really need a time of reflection and a second or even third read or listen to fully appreciate. When you’re closer to completing the next one I am sure I will be reading the previous ones yet again.
You seem to be the exact reader that I’m writing for, Carolyn. I’m so happy you’re enjoying my series. Yes, it does grow with reflection and more so on subsequent readings. I wrote it knowing fantasy readers re-read a lot of the earlier books, so I wanted them to be able to find something new each time. Thank you for listening!
This is exactly what I do. First reading I speed read because I just want (No need) to know what happens. Then i already start a reread at nice slow pace. Then every year or so I come back and find new things each time. I love your books and cant wait to see how things are going to progress in the next book
I love knowing that you’re enjoying the books again and again, Christiaan. Thank you for sharing your experience with me, and thank you for reading.
Great work, looking forward extremely eagerly to the next book, like from the author’s note ox this book
LOL. Thank you so much, Joseph.
I love these books. I think you are way to hard on yourself. I love all the characters. I don’t know how you keep it all straight. Finished them all. Waiting on book six. Had to listen to all the books again before I started book five. Probably will with book six to. But I love the stories. Don’t mind listening to them again. Take your time I can wait.
I devoured the five currently out and have already let you know of my interest in Tanis’s storyline on a different platform however even more then individual characters I’m interested in learning more about your world, how the esoterics function, the inter relations between differing worlds such as the realm of shadows and chaos. I would also love to see more excerpts from Darshans Existential/Nihilistic philosophies.
This series is just so amazing! All the characters are so fun and charismatic. I always recommend your books to any seeking a good read. I can’t wait to keep following Tanis and Pelas! I’ve really enjoyed Darshans and Eans arc as well. Enjoy your break from the realms, please don’t t make it too long!!!
For sure, Kritsy. I’m back into writing book six now, though it’s a bit slow-going as yet.
How interesting about Darshan, Neal. We are going to get more of those in book six, as Morwyk has taken up the standard and is running with it. I don’t know how much more, because I can only handle that viewpoint in small doses. 😉
You are above and beyond any author I have ever read. Words cannot accurately describe how well you have succeeded in depicting your characters and their lives. The whole series is amazing and keeps getting better as it continues on. I would love to hear more of Alshiba’s, Alyneri’s, Tanis’, Isabel’s, and the drachwyr’s fate. Book 6 is eagerly anticipated, but taking the time you need to write it will only add value once it finally gets released. Hopefully book 6 isn’t the end, regardless, your memories will live on in the lives they touched. Thank you for all your investment in this series, it is much appreciated. Best of luck in all your endeavors.
Thank you so much, Faith. I truly appreciate your kind words and encouragement. Thank you for reading!
Just finished book 5, And since i just started the entire series a month ago i am happy i got to experience this story in one go.
Though i am sad to hear I’ll have to wait to long for book 6 ( because i was spoiled and had book 1-5 ready to go) i can’t wait and will probably go through the entire series at least 5 times before then.
What made this series so great is the world building. I appreciate how once rules are established they are followed.
Often i see stories that have new powers just come out of nowhere, with no explanation just so the hero can win a battle.
The only addition to book 5 i wish would have been added is a small chapter for Alshiba.
It was explained that she was somehow being kept safe but i just wish there was a small chapter to explain that. She was quite literally left as a cliff hanger. How ever this is nit picky since all the characters in my opinion got an update.
Thanks for the hard work and can’t wait for book six.
Thank you so much, Jordan. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series.
I completely understand your totally legitimate complaint about Alshiba. I really tried to get her into book five, but going to her at all would’ve meant opening a huge thread with Illume Belliel that I didn’t have time to develop in that book. Hopefully it will be some concession to know we’ll get a lot of her in book six.
I second what Neal Mayne said! I’m so excited about the worlds, esoterics etc. So many authors glaze over the “HOW” of things but you give us details and we all love it. Thanks for the awesome writing.
Thank you, Anna. That’s really nice to hear.
Melissa,
I am not trying to be pithy, but I have to say you are a GENIUS. Your ability to interweave not only mysticism, physics, cultural variances and religious dogma is incredible. Your writing is both engaging and exudes real humanism knitted with theistic synergies. Anxiously awaiting the next epic story.
I’m honored, Kirk. Thank you.
You know my feelings, I eagerly await the next chapter of this story and hope these small words of encouragement get your creativity flowing. You are amazing and I love this world you have created.
You’re the greatest, AJ. Thank you. <3
Wait- do you mean to tell me people just pick up the next/new book in a series all willy-nilly and dive in? They don’t get all excited for the release date announcement and then start the ENTIRE series over again, timed so that they can reach the end of the story just as the next book is ready for consumption?!? SAVAGES!
Please take your time – I hope you enjoy the writing process HALF as much as I personally love the reading (listening, dedicated audible listener here) process. Can’t wait to get my hands (ears) on book 5!!!
Devlin…I do exactly the same thing. When the next book is due I re-read all the previous ones. I must have read all 14 volumes of “Wheel of TIme” at least 6 times before I gave away my hard copies and got it on ebooks. I have already read all 5 volumes here three times, and I’ll re-read from the beginning when the next one is due.
Still working my way through book five. Trying so hard not to speed through it so I can savor what time I have until the sixth releases.
I can’t imagine keeping everything straight like you do, but I can understand that overwhelming feeling. That fear that grips you as you think of all the things you want the story and to accomplish. Your mind races to all the possibilities and all the ways you can fail or succeed.
Let me just leave me with the same words you left me:
“Things have to go wrong before they can go right.”
You haven’t let me down yet and thank you for the update.
As for favorite character stories, Ean and Tanis and Pelas always. Although I have a real love for Carian. One chapter literally had me laughing out loud! I read this chapter to my 15 year old daughter out loud afterwards and now she’s starting to read book one! I can’t wait to talk to her all about it!
Oh, also enjoying Trell and his new threaded characters.
Beautiful, Marni. I appreciate being understood! And you’re right – things have a way of dipping down first before achieving screaming highs. 🙂
I’m thrilled you’re enjoying Trell’s support team. 😉
Hi, Melissa! I’m daunted just reading how daunting a task it is! You know that we all love your universe, and want the next book finished, like yesterday. But, I’ll always say you need to take your time. It’s not easy getting inside the heads of 26 different characters, even if they sprang from yours.
I’m looking forward to updates on the progress and will probably reread the whole series again, and take notes this time. All the better to pester you with. (Insert wicked witch of the west evil laugh here)
Sounds like a good plan, Tim. LOL.
Hi Melissa,
Thank you for the energy and creativity you are sharing with us the reader.
I just finished reading book five for second time. The cliff hangers are as deep with possibilties as the Grand Canyon.
When will the sun sragon arrive? Can they help anchor the tapastry with these the player making such bold move? How/where will Tanis return to the world of light? Who/ how is he rescued? Or does he realize he can rescue himself with an untapped talent? What are means of the. Chaos patterns doing to Isabel? How do they effect Balance. How will the tear be repaired?
The love stories of the Van Loren princes’ in thoughtful and endearing with
challenges as their love grows.How is the new purpose Darshin ‘s followers are undertaking going to help Balance.
I have so many more questions I hope book 6 or 7 answer. I know 26 stories line is alot to keep flowing.
I am vey curious about the Zanthyrs and Sun Dragons history.
Loukas and Tannour back story really added dimesion to their character.
I just to say the series is fantastic! I will patiently wait for the next book.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and feedback, Shelli, as well as for your kind words of encouragement. You’re not alone in wanting more information about zanthyrs and the drzchwyr. 🙂
Your books are fantastic- as long as you don’t pull a GRRM or Patrick Rothfuss on us (and wait a decade to release another book in the series!), you’re doing just great. This is an amazing and fantastic world, and it’s worth the wait. I will say, Loukas and Tannour’s backstory in this book got me- it really added something beautiful. Thank you.
I’m thrilled that you’re enjoying my series, Adam. It’s especially nice to know that you enjoyed Tannour and Loukas’s backstory in book five. It was one of those that just had to be written. Whether or not anyone else cared, I cared for these two guys and needed to tell their story. I’m so happy that so many others enjoyed it also.
Great work! I was honestly skeptical in the beginning, a lot of authors claim to be “Sanderson and Jordan-esque,” but after getting into the series I am truly impressed. There are obvious connections to their works, but yours maintains its originality all the same and keeps me turning the pages. I’d recommend your series to any epic fantasy lover. Looking forward to seeing how the game finishes!
LOL, Daniel. I completely understand your skepticism. I would be also. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series and appreciate your recommending it to others.
Melissa, you continue to outdo yourself with each new book. Your ability to add depth to each character is absolutely amazing. I’ve never read a story with such rich characters. To top that off each of them are amazing in their own way. In most epic fantasy there is at least one character that you care less about than the rest, but I find your book lacking in that department. This series has developed into my favorite. Please keep up the good work and be encouraged that your series is the best out there!
I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series, Tyler, and I’m honored to know that my work has achieved such a high place in your esteem. It’s definitely my intent that every character holds your interest. Too many times I’ve experienced the same thing you mention above. You turn the page and find that character is next and exhale a long-suffering sigh. In my work, I’m sure there is the moment when you turn the page, realize the chapter is over and don’t want to leave that character. But I always hope that within a few paragraphs with the new character, your interest is back up again and you’re happy to return to their viewpoint. That’s the standard I try to maintain.
Thank you for your kinds words, and thank you for reading.
Just finished The Sixth Strand; an excellent book and a fitting volume to continue the story! Best of luck with the next book and I look forward to reading if.
So glad you enjoyed it, Paul. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate the feedback.
Just finished book 5……AAHHHHH.
Always wanted to tell you how much I love the way you weave math, physics, and philosophy into the world. I can tell you spend a lot of time learning.
I absolutely can’t wait until book 6!
But always remember take care of yourself first and foremost; the fans can be patient if we need to be.
Thank you so much, Ian. I’m so happy you’re enjoying the mix of physics and philosophy. It’s very fun as a writer to find new connections myself. 😉
Just finished The Sixth Strand. Awesomeness! The last chapter with Sebastian was one of your best. Tanis and Pelas have firmly become my favorite characters, and I’m excited to see Nadia return into this lineup as well. Book 6 is going to be amazing. And I’m sure you could write 6 more books about the adventures of Tanis or his children lol. I’m so impressed with Ean and his maturity, his owning the game now. And Trell, I was worried about him but so happy with his last chapter here. You have my compliments, this is the best series I’ve ever read, and I’m 48 years old. I look forward to more reading in the future.
Thank you so much, Harvey. I have really appreciated your feedback, support and encouragement over the years. I feel the pressure to make book six worthy of capping this series, believe me!
First off I am a huge fan of this series and the world you have created! Just finished The Sixth Strand and it was amazing! I loved seeing Ian come from living in Arions shadow to the epilogue and how his understanding of the game has exploded.
Tanis and Pelas are a favorite and I love reading their stories.
Tannour has been a new and favorite character for me to read.
Trell story keeps progressing and his character always shines through.
I loved the big reunion moments between the brothers and family. Serious goosebump/feel good full circle moments.
Balefair was very interesting and I can’t wait for more on the warlocks and shadow realms coming together. I applaud your story telling and cannot fathom keeping all of the story thread straight. You are seriously talented and I anxiously await book six!
Thank you so much for your kind words and all of this great feedback, Patrick. It’s so helpful to hear favorites, things you loved and characters you’re most interested in. Greatly appreciated!
I think I dropped a note shortly after I finished reading “The Sixth Strand” (which I continuously referred to as Book 6…that “6th” in the title apparently confused my poor old mind to no end!). At any rate, the denouements in that one have set up some good “concluding” scenarios. But one of the things I pointed out earlier was that I had quit reading GRRM because there was no clearly defined “good v evil” motif in his books. I have found it intriguing that you have taken characters who appeared to be evil (actually, I should use the word “races” rather than characters, as we are talking fairly specifically about the immortals), and shown us that, like tigers and bears, they are not inherently evil, but become so when placed outside their stated “purpose”. The most inherently “evil” characters are pretty much on the mortal spectrum…and that fits my own worldview rather neatly, I must say. So the warlocks and even Pelas and his brothers can be convinced to help save mortality, but there is no end to the evil perpetrated by mortals on one another. It is a most intriguing philosophy, and I hope to see more of the warlocks and the other immortal races, including, of course, the dragons. I would say I can’t wait, but since I know I have to, I’ll make a point of re-reading the others shortly before Book 6 is released.
I couldn’t have summed it up better myself, Edith. Thank you. I believe our world-views are very definitely aligned. I’ll do my darnedest to make that wait for book six as short as possible. Thank you for sharing your insight on my work, and thank you for reading.
This is one of those rare series that I can read/listen to over and over. I’ve been through the whole series at least 3 times, and individual books more than that (Kingdom Blades and Sixth Strand may be two of my favorite books, period).
I love your writing, your characters, and the overwhelming vastness and complexity of your stories, and I’ll be looking forward to book 6! Thank you for all your hard work!! It’s not unappreciated.
Thank you so much, Cameron. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series. It’s lovely to hear that you’re enjoying it many times over. It was my intent from the beginning to write a story that people would enjoy re-reading (and maybe get something new out of it that they didn’t see the first time). I love that you’re invested in my characters and world. Thank you for your kind words – I’m honored – and thank you for reading.
Yours is one of my favorite series and I frequently re-read or repeat listening to them. Saving my audible credit for book five, e-book is in my Kindle library, and one day I’ll get the hard copy of the series.
One burning question I wonder about is who is Felix’s real father? I’m missing the clues or hints.
I hope you have some refreshing time within your writing process or during the time in between.
I’m so happy to know you’re enjoying my series, Amanda. I look forward to hearing what you think of book five. 🙂
It’s not meant to be a mystery who Felix’s father is – he is the Lord Sarcova.
Totally random, but Melissa, have you ever thought about posting on the Reddit fantasy page? Maybe you already do, but I haven’t noticed yet. Honestly it’s done wonders for authors like Michael Sullivan, Josiah Bancroft, Mark Sullivan and others without the hype of a Brandon Sanderson (even he posts from time to time). Your series is definitely one that deserves more recognition out there, IMO. Just a thought 🙂
Matt, I have a pathological fear of a Reddit. I would happily become more interactive there but I’d need a tutor big time! LOL
Just keep on keeping on. You know we’ll be standing by, ready to push purchase on Amazon when the day comes.
Hi Melissa! At what point did you know there was going to be a need for a sixth book? Was it as you were writing The Sixth Strand that you realized there was still more story to tell or somewhere else?
Good question, Teresa. Pretty early into writing book five I knew there was no way I could finish the story in one book.
Just finished audio book 5.
The characters, the detail in the story line is fantastic.
Hope there is more in the works.
So glad you enjoyed The Sixth Strand! I’m working on book six now, Rod.
Melissa, I listened to Books 1-4, then re- listened before 5 came out. The character development is amazing, especially Tannis! Your skill in painting a story is wonderful and however Book 6 comes out, I know it will be exactly what the characters need it to be. Stay calm and write on!
Thank you so much for your kind words about my series and for your encouragement on my future writing. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying it.
Melissa- I am a huge fan of fantasy fiction. For years my brother and I have traded recommendations, finding common ground in the classics from Tolkien to the newly minted Brent Weeks and Patrick Rothfus. My daughter now shares this passion for deeply moving stories that touch the souls and stimulate the mind. That said, your series is one that I stumbled upon while searching Audible. I travel extensively and reading isn’t always an option, so the ability to continue a story through Audible really brings the story to life. Nick Podehl does a fantastic job of narration and sharing the nuances of the characters “voice”. In fact, I found your series by searching Audible for other works narrated by him. I am so glad I did. I have read/listened to this series several times. Each time I pick up a few details I missed in the earlier iteration. This is truly one of my favorite series. The detail and world building is exquisite, coupled with a compelling story line – what more could a fan of fantasy want?!?? I do look forward to the conclusion of this series. However- I like your writing style, your “voice” and the way you create/resolve conflicts. Please continue to share your imagination with us through new or spinoff series. From an avid reader – I appreciate the laborious task of pouring out your life onto the pages of a book and sharing so much with us. Kudos on such a well conceived series, bravo for the execution of getting on paper and much grace for finishing the work!!! All the best!
I’m so glad you’ve found a new home in Alorin, Phillip. I agree – Nick does an amazing job bringing my characters to life. He’s quite the talent. I feel blessed to have him as the voice of my series. I’m working on book six now and trying not to be overwhelmed by the daunting prospect of having to make it better than the last book. 😉 Thank you for listening!
Melissa, you have started something huge, complex (…and awesome) and understandably daunting. If you can’t find a writer’s multi-book allegorical fantasy series support group to commiserate with, then i suggest a tropical vacation to recharge the batteries. I’m not a writer, but my work is project based and every project goes through defined phases. In the beginning the team is full of energy and excitement, but soon the problems and hurdles show up and the middle phase is a slog, but then as the finish line appears everyone perks up again to bring the undertaking to a close.
There is a lot of story left to tell, and it sounds like you are somewhere in the middle of it all. We need you at your best! you brought us this far and i know i and all your fans have confidence in your ability to weave the rest of this masterful tale.
Go buy that airplane ticket for you and your significant other (I’ll assume) and enjoy some “me time”. You deserve it, and so do we. 🙂
Thank you, Sean. I appreciate your warm support as much as your unwavering confidence in my ability to take the series to the finish line.
There is definitely travel in my future! LOL
Amazing work! I have been soo entranced by the world you have shared and the stunning ebb and flow of morality, conflict and inner struggle that, frankly, all of us should be able to identify, within the pursuit of understanding our own mortality. I am a huge fan of how you write humanity, especially how you insert it into otherwise god-like beings. Keep up the good work, no pressure, I am willing to languish as long as needed to receive the blessing of another foray into this wonderful world you have allowed us to visit. It will not be easy but I am happy to chomp at the bit of anticipation.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Vince. I’m honored by your praise. I’m definitely working hard to get book six written so you’re not languishing too long! Thank you for reading.
I have listened to each book and I LOVE this series! It is truly fantasy and while you have obviously created a world that has actual mechanics, the story is NEVER pedantic in explaining the strands and how to work the various powers.
Being that I listened to it on Audible actually reading the way you have spelled various character names now makes me want to actually READ the novels because your spellings are so different from what I imagined. Perhaps this will give me something to do while waiting for the next book.
What a WONDERFUL story you have created and Nick is an AWESOME narrator!
I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series on Audible, GaNeane. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me. It’s so interesting to hear that the spellings of the names have piqued your interest for reading versus listening. I would love to hear how that goes. Thank you for coming along on the adventure in Alorin with me.
Hello Melissa,
I found your series through looking for books that Nick Podehl had narrated. I listened to the 5 books in a couple of months. I absolutely love the way you write. My favourite character is Carian vran Lea. He makes me laugh all the time. Can’t wait for the 6th book!
Oh, thank you, Kylie. I’m so glad you found my series. Nick is an incredible narrator. I don’t know how he keeps the voices straight! And yes, Carian is quite the character. 🙂
This series is utterly amazing. By far the best in this genre I have ever read. Keep up the good work and I can’t wait for book six, whenever it does grace our presence!
Thank you so much, Max. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series and honored by your praise.
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for the terrific series. While reading (listening) through book 5 I found myself writing down memorable quotes. Specifically, there was a quote (NOT spoiler) about how simply taking action toward one’s purpose, even if you’re unsure what action to take, will cause life to align to that purpose. (paraphrased a bit)
That said, I would encourage you to follow your own advice there as you work through these incredibly rich, deep, and thought-provoking books.
Cheers!
LOL Joe! You have no idea how often I apply that datum of working through a confusion when trying to write these books. It’s just find one thing and hold it still (i.e. one chapter a time).
Whew …listened to all 5 books on audible and when finished i was like WHAT?! THATS HOW IT ENDS! Lol I really enjoyed the series and really look forward to the next book. Though after the first two books I was curious as to how many times a character could be kidnapped or taken lol. You kept me entertained for many many hours as I drove my truck. Thank you and well done.
I’m so glad you’re enjoying my series on Audible, Michael. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about the early books. It’s funny, but if you study history, you’d be shocked at how common a tactic kidnapping is. People get passed back and forth like a golden cow. It’s quite fascinating. 😉
Hi Melissa! I think I wrote to you after I finished the first 4 books a few years ago. When The Sixth Strand came out I realized that I needed to return to the beginning to fully enjoy it. So 120 hours of audiobooks later and a rekindling of my love for the princes of Dannym I started book 5. I have 4 hours left and I am already grieving it’s end and anticipating Book 6. I love your characters, your character development, the worlds you have created and all of the witty banter. My fantasy in life is to be able to write witty banter as deftly as you do. I laugh out loud frequently to the chagrin of my husband who is usually snoring next to me. Lastly we had to look up the word dubiety. Great word and you use it with aplomb. Thank you for this series. I have enjoyed just as much if not more the second time through!
Thank you so much, Summer. It warms my heart to know you’re enjoying my series so much. The second time is sometimes even better than the first, because now you know where we’re heading so the little details pop out at you more. I hope this was your experience also.
Yes, dubiety seems to communicate just the right amount of humorous skepticism that I like many of my characters to convey.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me, and thank you for listening (twice!).
Hey Melissa! I’m going to be the one to ask, timeline… when can we expect book 6? 2 years? 4? Do you have a ballpark figure?
Hi Miles, I’m going for 2021. That’s still pie in the sky at this point but it’s my target and I’m clinging to it. 😉
I just Finished Book, 5… I can’t wait for a book 6, You are by far my new favorite author I got to read the full series non stop, and well My goodness I love it. Your character development is amazing, and let’s be fair I need to know what happens. It’s like you left yourself open for another (5) books 🙂
Anyways I will wait patiently for the next amazing book.
I’m honored to have won a high place in your esteem, Kevin. Thank you so much. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series. I’m working away on books six, so hopefully the wait won’t be too torturous. Thank you for reading.
I love just putting my ear buds in and letting this fantastic story unfold in my mind thank you for the great escape from the quarintining that I’ve been going through. I love all the characters and the growth in all of them. it if a great story sad to wait 2 years but I’ll be here waiting.thank you so much
I’m just as excited to know you’re enjoying my series on Audible, Calvin. Thank you for listening!
Fantastic books, up there with what I class as some of the greats, having read epic fantasy for decades. Enjoyed so much on the kindle I’m willing to fork out the £16 price tag to get them in paperback for my bookcases.
Excellent characters and so many different storylines. Really looking forward to book 6
I’m thrilled to hear that, Ronnie. I’m working hard on book six. Thank you for reading.
EXCELLENT series i love this series so much. I’ve listened to the whole thing 2 times through on audible and i have gone through my library and listened to all of them and getting ready to begin this series again. I am excited to listen to it again because each time i listen to it i have been learning some new pieces of information, so i can’t wait to see what i learn this time. I look forward to the next one. Please take your time and don’t rush.
I also have gotten my brother to listen and my girlfriend wants to get the hard copy of the book because she prefers to read them with physical copies. So we are going to order the series eventually.
I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series, Matthew. Thank you so much for sharing your experience with me, and for sharing the series with your brother and your girlfriend also. I greatly appreciate that.
If you haven’t already, you might enjoy taking a look at the Facebook fan group. Lots of lively interaction and speculation happening there post book five. 🙂
Great Job Melissa. I just finished Kingdom Blades and your world has me. It is always a readers paradox to want a complete story but also to have to deal with the sadness of a story ending. Tough call. The only feedback I have for you is keep up the good work. Each book is better than the last! The world building and philosophy you have in this series is amazing!
I’m so glad you’re enjoying my series, Nick. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on book five. Thank you for reading. 🙂
Just finished Book 5 and constantly found myself thinking ‘there’s too much that needs to happen and not enough book left!’
Thank you so much for bringing this story to life and I can’t wait to devour the next one when it arrives
Iw as right there with you on that realization, Charlie. I’m working hard on book six. Thank you so much for adventuring in Alorin with me.
I just listened to all five audiobooks back to back and WOW. I really enjoyed every minute of it. I don’t know if you have a say-so in narrators for the audiobooks, but it was really well done. Can’t wait for #6!
I feel very lucky to have Nick Podehl as the voice of my series, Erica. He is quite the talent. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series on Audible. Thank you for listening.
I just read all five books in about 3 weeks and I cannot for the life of me see this series ending in one last book; there is just too many threads to pattern together. (see what I did there?) This being said, this definitely feels like a WOT series and I love that about your series, the timeframe between books is going to be painful – a necessary pain albeit. Tanis is too complex to be explained in one last book and the Warlocks and Cephrael and Baelfeirs story hasn’t even been scratched. I foresee a 10 book series at most but would be (probably) satisfied with 7 or 8.
The ending of book 5, caught me off guard so I’m actively looking forward to Book 6.
Lastly, what I supremely love most about your books is the command of the English language! It is soooo rare to find an author that injects such unique and forgotten verbiage! Love, love , love it!
Thank you so much, Brian. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying my series. You’re quite right that it’s going to take at least 2 more books to wrap up the story. I’m working as fast as I can to do just that.
I’m very glad to hear that you enjoy my use of the language. I just want to use the word that most seems right to communicate my thoughts. 🙂
Thank you for reading.