Every story that I write is a labor of love.
Before self-publishing fantasy novels, I worked as a video game writer. I feel so lucky to have contributed to all those game projects, even the ones that never got past the prototype stage. Not only did a learn a ton about immersive fiction, but I also got to write dialogue lines for Sylvester Stallone once.
But writing as a team means that most of the time, I wasn't in control of what I wrote. Especially in the video game industry, my stories were at the mercy of game designers and project managers. A well-crafted storyline could be torn apart at a moment's notice, sometimes for good reason, other times because I simply wasn't in charge of the content.
Which is why I promised myself as a fantasy novelist that I would only write stories that I wanted to read. While I do have beta readers and listen to advice, ultimately, I make every call about what goes into my novels.
That's why I'm so excited to release Book 9 of Magic of Nasci, my beloved nature wizard series. Even though my Magical Midlife Mom books are doing much better sales-wise, I couldn't help but write another shepherd book featuring Ina, the rebellious lightning druid.
Here's a quick snippet from Chapter 2 of the book to show why I love writing about Ina (and Vincent) so much
===
A sharp soprano cry split the air. Vincent and I halted.
“What was that?” Vincent glanced under the trees’ gloom.
“A rodent of some kind, probably getting attacked.”
“Not a good day for him.”
“No kidding.” It was sad, but predators need prey in order to survive. Shepherds didn’t interfere with that cycle, not even for humans, who preyed upon Mother Nature a lot more than the average mammal.
But something told me this was more than just the circle of life running its course. I pulled my charm necklace out of my hoodie, letting it bounce externally for easier access.
The rodent cried out again, this time much closer. The scrawny branches of a quaking aspen grove swayed several yards up ahead. A shadow flittered behind one of the trees and leaped to the ground, skittering toward us.
I caught sight of a bushy tail. “Squirrel.”
Vincent chuckled. “Nice one, Dog.”
I flipped him the bird. His titters increased.
That’s us. The height of maturity.
===
And if you're new to the series, you're in luck! I've put the first 5-book box set on sale for $0.99. That's 20 cents per book. You can't beat that price.
Let me know what you think of Ina and her latest adventure. I always love hearing from readers who enjoy my quirky worlds: [email protected].
Grab More Bargain Books
Third Generation Witch is a free urban fantasy academy story. A teen girl fears her family’s reputation will label her for life. Her mother wants her to follow in her footsteps and learn witchcraft. Can she become a witch on her own terms?
Blood Knight is a $0.99 urban fantasy adventure. Step into a world of clandestine supernatural beings - witches and vampires - lurking in the shadows of humanity. A tale that oozes action and mystery, but leaves no room for romance.
Tides is a free sweet fantasy romance. Sarah and Miles meet on a boat, both of them taking them to new adventures. Only Miles must convince Sarah that the dragon she saw was only real in her imagination.
Until next time, happy adventuring!
-DM Fike
Books by DM Fike
Magical Midlife Mom Paranormal Women's Fiction
Single mom Melissa Hartley discovers that magic exists in the worst way possible: through her teenage daughter. She never expected her midlife crisis to involve the fae, but she will do anything to protect her child…even if it kills her.
Legends of Llenwald YA Portal Fantasy Trilogy
As Avalon gets pulled toward a secret world where others covet her legendary powers, she must decide whom to trust—an amnesiac fairy, a shapeshifting trickster, or even her former doctor—all of whom may only be exploiting her for their own gain.
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