As mentioned previously, querying agents for a book is most difficult. The ratio of denials to ‘request for more‘ is largely one-sided. However, after further research and perusing the inter-webs (that’s the internet) I have decided that some editorial work may be necessary for book 1. Therefore, I have recently requested quotes from various editors for their services.
The Edits
If you have been a past beta-reader, you are fully aware of those times you stopped, scratched your head, and wondered what the writer was trying to do/convey. Where does this scene fit into the overall story? Who is this guy/girl and what purpose do they serve? Did I just fall through a plot hole?
These are things that sometimes can be difficult to find as a writer. You know the old saying, “can’t see the forest from the trees,” meaning, as the author I am just too close to notice certain problems. Although, I have edited, redacted, removed, added, and changed much over the course of completing this manuscript, it is possible that changes are still needed.
The Purpose
I believe that stories matter! Whether on page, for the screen, or stage, stories have a profound impact on how we view ourselves, the world, and the culture around us. Far too many influence us for the worse. As a Christian speculative fiction writer, I hope to influence readers for the better by weaving in real life situations that touch the heart, the mind, and the soul with pain, loss, love, and hope. Through imaginative and dynamic storytelling my hope is to resonate with you, the reader. Not merely so you walk away thinking ‘how great a book that was. Rather, you walk away powerfully changed.
Perhaps, you find that last bit of courage and strength to do the right thing in the way each unique character faces increasingly challenging decisions. As they overcome seemingly insurmountable circumstances and difficult situations, you find yourself empowered to latch onto that last bit of hope once thought impossible. As they set their face toward their destiny, whatever that may be, you find new resolve to approach every facet of life with newfound joy, knowing that even in the midst of darkness, there is always light to lead the way.
Readers Wanted
When you put down the book, having experienced the deeply rooted and identifiable truths intertwined through the pages, perhaps… you look at life just a little bit differently. With that said, if you are looking for a story like this, then consider becoming a beta-reader for Book 1, The Indwelling Darkness: Love, Bloodshed, & the Fall. Below you will find a synopsis to help with your decision.
Synopsis:
Indwelling Darkness is about the manifestation of evil incarnate in the form of a tyrant who seeks to cover the kingdom in darkness by first imprisoning the seven light spirits, then by violently usurping the king’s throne, eliminating the heir, and destroying any who get in his way. Meanwhile, Erramuun, our male protagonist who has been raised the king’s son, learns that fate will take him in a different direction by placing upon him the duty of falling into the kingly line. Fighting to overcome self-doubt, he soon learns all he has been raised to believe may not be true, adding ambiguity to his already misunderstood past. Can his best friend Rayne, our prominent female protagonist truly love him? Showing up at the Heart Guard gate when they were both little children is the only piece of her past to cling to. With so many questions of her own, will she ever find out who she is and understand her place in the kingdom? As the Tyrant grows strong building an army of death and destruction, darkness continues to envelop the land. Will fate bring Erramuun and Rayne together to fulfill the prophecy, usher in the Great Dawn of Light, and dispel the evil or will an act of betrayal and bloodlust spell the end of kingdom and all that they love.
Prerequisites:
- I must know you personally. Trusting others with your hard work is difficult.
- You will not need to sign up for any accounts but I will need your email to send the reader link. You can send this in text, email, or sign up for the newsletter on the website.
- Be willing to read the entire book. It is 30 chapters.
