2026-26: Wingin' it

I’ve written before about how I plan a new story by feel; I need to write the opening scene (ideally super compelling and hook-y), try it on for size, and see how it fits, and then figure out where I might want to wear it to.

Case in point: the very young, still untitled seventh Deviant Magic novel.

Yes, I should be working on my sci-fi thing, but I’ve learned not to let moments of inspiration pass me by. It’s better to just let the words out and deal with the mess later. Like how you shouldn’t hold in a fart.

So anyway, the opening scene for this one was burning a hole through my skull, and out it came. It’s fun! It brings together an interesting combination of characters with different motives and potentials for conflict! It progresses the overall story of the series while letting me play with a new POV!

But what the heck kind of book was it leading into?

The finale to that scene answered that question for me. What does the ancient demon lord possessing young Ricky Brooks actually want?

My sword.

It’s a great answer. And it means the thing has to be somewhere, and it has to be hard to find, and doing so needs to lead to strong character growth and unforeseen consequences.

And that’s how I realized I was writing a heist novel.

Giant Sword Update

I’ve settled on a tagline for my new imprint: No, you’re compensating. I am a marketing genius.

In the last week, I’ve settled on a newsletter service, bought ISBNs, launched a few social accounts (@giantswordpublishing on Threads and the Gram), and started figuring out how to nicely format a short story I want to use as a reader magnet.

I also sent book six in my Deviant Magic series off to my developmental editor, which reminded me I needed to finalize the title: For My Beloved.

And the rest!

I set a new personal best at the BAA 10K this past weekend: 59:06. I’ve steadily improved by several minutes each of the last few years, and that was by far my easiest and steadiest iteration yet.

Softball’s been a mixed bag. I’m hitting well, but my fielding’s regressed. Gonna play a little more often to see if I can fix that.

I also realized recently that I was constantly kinda tired and prone to crashing because I wasn’t eating nearly enough to keep myself fueled through everything I do. Yes, I’m stupid. But I’ve got that sorted now, and my head’s so much clearer.

Til next week!