Dear Readers,
Wow. Don’t know about your region of the world, but it’s been boiling hot here! The temps have been hovering over 100 degrees and the poor AC is definitely laboring to keep things cool. Even though August promises to be another long hot month, I am hoping it goes by fast. To say I am ready for winter is an understatement. If you live in an area getting lots of rain, think about sending it here, please!
So what’s been up? Well, some of you have written to ask about the release of Darkness Awakening, the second book in the Vampire Armageddon series. Yes, there is a listing on Amazon and a few other book sites, and the date of release is given as August 7, 2012. Unfortunately the book’s information was uploaded to databases by the publisher, and even though that book was cancelled it remains listed as one of my forthcoming titles. A few of you know why this book ended up not happening, but for those of you who don’t, here is the short version: Around this time last year, I was in contract negotiations with NAL for a third paranormal series–having closed the contract for the Dark Tides series (Siren’s Call, Siren’s Surrender, Siren’s Desire) with the delivery of the final title in the trilogy. An offer came through my agent, one that would have chopped the VA series down to two books–while only signing a single title in the new series. In other words, instead of offering a new contract and an advance for a new set of books, the publisher wanted to cut one book off the Vampire Armageddon contract (I signed for 3), and tack a first book in a new series onto the existing contract. This was unacceptable, as it would have killed the VA series at two titles, and it would not have guaranteed me that more than 1 book would be picked up in the third paranormal series. In other words, the publisher had no intention of really doing anything with either series. Although I was almost done with Darkness Awakening, I made the decision to close the file and leave the book unfinished. I also returned the advance and decided to walk away from NAL. I really don’t know what will happen with the second VA book. The entire experience killed my enthusiasm for the series. Once that dies, it is difficult to regain the momentum.
So what am I working on? Well, as you can see by the sidebar, I’ve got a lot planned for 2013, which I am working on implementing as I venture into the realm of self-publishing. Yes, it was briefly announced that I had signed a few contracts with a small press. Unfortunately they have closed their doors and the contracts have been voided. That’s just part of the business. I have a few other irons in the fire, but until I have some firm news, I’m not going to announce anything yet. Book 1 (Incantation) of the new paranormal series, which I have tagged “Witching Hours”, is in the works for an August 2013 release.
Finally, the most important part of this post: The winners of the July giveaway are: Anna M – MN, Colleen T – UK, Sandra L – CO. All winners have been notified. Thanks to all who entered!
That’s about it for this month. Stay cool everyone!
Devyn