Svithe

I’m back on Book 2.5, writing some characters who will be a big deal in Ashe and Avril’s lives in Book 3.

Here’s a mini excerpt I particularly enjoy:

“Xax is many things,” Svithe said.  “But he only acts the fool to hide his craftiness.  Be on your guard should you encounter him.”  He moved in closer to her.  “Because he knows exactly what you are.”
Candice gave Svithe a feverish nod.
He leaned in with his obsidian mask nearly touching her cheek, savoring her fear, her humiliation.  “And do you know what you are?”
“A killer.”  A tear glimmered at the edge of her eye.  “Damned to suffer.”
“That right.  And extent of your suffering will very much depend on how well you perform at the Pale Desert’s frontier.”  He patted the side of her cheek.  “Act well, my dear.  Act well.”

I’ve been told by a few readers that they really dislike Svithe.  And that’s a good thing.  He’s very fun to write as the guy people love to hate.  An urbane sociopath who gets off on messing with people.  Hopefully you don’t know anyone like this in your life.

And if you do, I hope you know someone like Avril too.

Nuh-Wuh-Wuh-Fffff!

Got the Hidden Chapters finished up.  I’ll have Sally Walker read one of them at this year’s Nebraska Writers Workshop Fall Fiction Fest at the Ralston Library on the afternoon of Sunday, Sept 22.  I’ll regrettably not be able to attend.  For short it’s the NWW FFF, pronounced Nuh-Wuh-Wuh-Fffff by me only, but I’m trying to start an audio meme as of right…. now!  Nuh-Wuh-Wuh-Fffff!  Say it proud.  Say it loud!  Say it after you’ve stubbed your toe and Ow’d.

Now, you know why I write grim science fantasy instead of comedy.

In the meantime, sales on Repenter are… steady.  Oh, marketing, how I loathe you.  Luckily, I’m in this for fun because I gots ta do it.  As I recently told an old buddy, what else am I going to do, make a smart watch?

And.  AND.  I finally found some good new, pensive hard rock to write to, Black Veil Brides.  Right in my wheelhouse.

Crazy behind on the comics pile, looking forward to seeing how X-Factor wraps up.

In the words of Yoda: For now, all that is.

-Jim

PS- Nuh-Wuh-Wuh-Fffff!