Shadow of the Lantern Bearer has been out a few months now, and I’ve been blown away by the response. This book was a bit of an experiment for me, a real passion project. It has been incredibly gratifying to see people reading and enjoying the first steps of Kole’s journey. Thank you to everyone who took a chance on the book, and thanks especially to those amazing people who left a review. You have no idea how important those reviews were for getting the book off the ground.
Of course, the Golden Remnant Saga has only just begun. I envisage the series will span about 3 or 4 books, though I’m leaving myself some wiggle room there. It will always remain Kole’s story, however–this isn’t going to be one of those series with an ever-expanding list of point-of-view characters until you go an entire book without getting a chapter from the main protagonist!
I’m aiming to get book 2 out next year. I’d like to give you a firmer release date than that, but everything is a little up in the air at the moment. As I’m sure you’re aware, 2020 has been what scientists have officially deemed “a real shitshow.” The pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have played havoc with my writing. I’m basically a stay-at-home dad when my daughter can’t go to daycare, so like many of you I’ve been trying to juggle keeping a small child happy and learning and entertained while also trying to get some work done.
And also, to be totally honest, my mental health has taken a pretty big hit during this whole mess. I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression on and off throughout my life. Usually I’m able to manage it fairly well, but these aren’t ordinary times. Though I am receiving good support and treatment for my mental health, writing is still more difficult than usual for me right now, even when I am able to carve out some time.
But don’t worry, I’m still alive and still writing. Between the Golden Remnant Saga and my Lost Falls urban fantasy series, I’ve got my work cut out for me! Thank you for sticking with me. And I hope you’re all safe and well wherever you are.
Kay Franklin
November 12, 2020 - 10:03 pm ·Crack on Chris , I’ve just finished your book and I loved it , you’ve a real talent my boy and I can’t wait for the next instalment, hold fast to the knowledge you are entertaining people during these strange times and know this will all pass , thank you for the book , the first I’ve read in ages that I’ve absolutely been caught up in xx
Trish Hansen
December 19, 2020 - 7:03 pm ·I just finished Shadow of the Lantern Bearer and I’m hooked. I read constantly and my favorite genre is Fantasy, especially quest fantasy. I’ve had a rule of not reading new series until they are complete because it’s so frustrating to love a story and then wait until I’m old and gray to get the next installment. Which frankly, I already am LOL. So I hope that you will turn out to be the exception to the rule! It’s a wonderful story and you tell it well. I’ll be looking forward to the next one!
Thomas Brothers
June 15, 2021 - 11:23 pm ·I genuinely enjoyed your book Shadow of the Lantern Bearer and the character development. The whole story and world so far seems well developed and just great. I look forward to reading the rest of the books as they get released! I’m itching for the next one!
Jill Porretta
July 10, 2021 - 10:55 pm ·I have really enjoyed the first book it’s been a real find for me as I love fantasy. Can’t wait for the next one
Rens
August 6, 2021 - 7:12 am ·One of the best fantasy books I’ve read in a long time !
I hope the next part is coming soon.
Lucy Godsave
September 24, 2021 - 9:48 pm ·I am near the end of your book. Fantastic! I was always a big reader but haven’t done for while through writing myself and other things. But your book I picked up and so glad I did I haven’t been able to put down. Thank you for bringing my love of reading back. I look forward to more. All the best to you.