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.