Well, today’s the day. It’s finally here. The last chapter.

Back in October, I had an idea for a fantasy novel geared toward upper middle grade kids (ages 12-14). In the world of children’s and YA literature, these guys are the ones that tend to fall through the cracks in terms of books written for their specific age group. Most middle grade novels can be too young for them, and a lot of YA books deal with themes that are a little too mature for some of these kids.

When the idea came to me, I was working at the time on finishing The Secrets of Shadywoods, a traditional middle grade novel (ages 9-12), so I took a brief break and spent a few days outlining my thoughts for my new book. Then, since I was busy with self-publishing, marketing, and selling my first book, I tabled my new one until after Christmas.

As soon as New Year’s was over, I got busy writing a new story. Over the last five months, I’ve fallen in love with a pair of sisters named Fenn and Nixie and their best friend, Christopher. I’ve enjoyed escaping with them to the magical realm of Varlandria. They’ve been on a dangerous adventure, met several interesting friends, and the girls discovered a whole new family along the way. There’s twists and turns that I’ve been thrilled to write, and I can’t wait for readers to join the journey.

So, as I said, today’s the day. I’ll start chapter 40, the last chapter of their adventures (at least in this book). When I’m done, there will be plenty more to do, like editing, revising, formatting, and so forth. I’ve also got to get busy designing a cover or finding an artist to create one for me.

It’ll be a few more months before Varlandria is ready for readers to visit, but I’m already so proud and excited to have come this far on the epic journey of my second novel. And I’m looking forward to the day I can invite you to come along.

P.S. If you enjoyed The Secrets of Shadywoods, and you’re wondering what Maggie and Darlene will be up to next, stay tuned. After Varlandria drops this fall, I’ll be ready to rejoin the kids at the Shadywoods Campground. They have another story to tell.