From the Author's Desk: You Asked, Declan Answered.

Hey there, wonderful readers.

I’ve got some fantastic news to share with you today… the first draft of Book 7 in the Chronicles of Storm series is officially COMPLETE!

I’ll be honest, this one took a little longer to write than I expected. Sometimes the story has its own timing (and stubborn characters who refuse to do what I say 😅), but I truly hope the wait was worth it once you turn that first page.

At just over 124,000 words, it’s a wild ride packed with action, adventure, tension, heart, and of course, a few surprises along the way. You know I couldn’t resist.

But as always, finishing a book is a bit bittersweet. When you’ve been living in a story this long, walking beside these characters through every twist and turn, letting go is never easy. There’s joy, relief, maybe even some sadness… And yet, it’s a moment to celebrate.

So today, I’m raising a metaphorical glass to this story, to you for sticking with me, and to all that’s still to come. I can’t wait to share more with you as we move into edits, cover design, and the really fun stuff.

And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for…

Over in our Facebook Readers' group, you asked Declan Storm a few questions, and he actually answered! In true Declan fashion, he promised that at least 30% of what he said is true. 

His answers are up now, so keep reading and enjoy the chaos.

Question 1: My question is, will there be an epic battle with his step-sister? (Her character fills me with dread, never knowing what to expect). Tracy C.

You sensed it too, Tracy? You must have some type of magic hidden in your soul.

To be honest, Keira gives me the hibbie-jibbies too. She always has… The first time I met her, I checked my pockets… and my soul. You know how I am, though. I prefer peaceful resolutions to deadly confrontations. I didn’t survive a thousand years of magical mayhem by charging headfirst into family drama with a drawn sword and no exit plan. No, my lady. I survived by being two steps ahead, three paces sideways, and occasionally upside-down in someone else’s private collection hall.

If there’s a battle coming with Keira, it’ll be one for the ages…

Question 2: I have question: Do you have the ability to communicate with birds and forest animals; do they relay important information to you? Stephen S.

Ah, Stephen, a classic question! And as always, I offer a classically questionable answer. 😉

I wish I could chat with birds and anymals. Especially the ravens. They seem like they always have juicy gossip. But no, I can’t speak with animals or birds, which might be a blessing. I already have enough voices in my head whispering sweet nothings at night. Adding squirrels to the chorus might just break me.

Now, if you’re truly in need of woodland intel, you want Commander Damian Blake. He’s a Child of Earth. It’s his power.

Question 3: I would like to ask Declan if there is anything he didn't do but wishes he had! Helen V.

Now that is a sharp question, my lady. Cuts right past my calm, smiling facade and gets to the soft bits underneath.

Truth is, I’ve done a great many things—some daring, some foolish, a few accidentally heroic. I’ve forged masterpieces so convincing the originals felt flattered. I painted portraits under names that weren’t mine, for people who thought I was someone else entirely. I even once sold a sculpture to a king that I’d just stolen from his private collection. Long story. Very tense dinner.

But what haven’t I done?

I’ve never painted something and signed my own name at the bottom. Too risky, too revealing, too... honest. There’s always another artifact to steal, another escape, another mask to wear. But once in a while—very rarely—I think about a quiet studio, a blank canvas and no games at all.

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There you have it. I can’t guarantee Declan was being entirely truthful, but I do hope you enjoyed hearing from him. If you didn’t get the chance to ask your question in our Readers’ group, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Declan will be happy to answer more questions in the next newsletter.

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Welcome to the Salamanderverse!

Did you know that The Storm Awakened is now available on Audible?

It’s over 13 hours of wild twists, big stakes, and magical mayhem, all brought to life by Steven Barnett. His narration is absolutely amazing!

If you’ve been waiting for the audio, it’s ready. Hope you enjoy the ride!