The warm weather has me struggling to juggle outdoor chores with writing and working on the audio book. Read on for my April news and author project updates.
Audio Book Progress
The feedback I received on the sneak peek of the audio book was positive, for the most part, which makes me feel like I’m on the right track (haha! Not the old 8-track). The recording is available here if you’re interested in listening to it.
The static ‘ticks’ in the raw recordings continue to be a problem, and though I’ve figured out how to get rid of them in the final product, I’d rather not have to deal with them at all. It’s likely an equipment issue, but I’m open to suggestions. If any of you have any expertise in this area, I’d be glad for your input.
I’m now past the halfway mark recording Blood Mark. It’s getting faster, but it remains a grind.
Witch Book Progress
Though I’m still madly plotting away, I couldn’t help myself from writing the first scene. The new characters are finding their voices, the setting locations are flushing out, and the seeds of conflict are finding fertile ground. Is it nerdy that I find this fun?
In-person Event Update
The March 24th Spring Craft Fair, Luncheon, and Plant Sale in Union Bay was a tremendous success. Thank you to everyone who popped by to chat and buy books.
My next event is a new release book signing for Scorch Mark on May 18th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Blue Heron Books, 1775 Comox Avenue in Comox, BC. Dirk Meckert at Blue Heron sells all my books and has been a huge supporter. I’m always happy to send readers there to pick up further books in either of my series. Hope to see you there. You can always track my schedule of in-person events here.
What I’m Watching
A friend recommended Peaky Blinders, a six-season drama on Netflix that first aired in 2013 starring Cillian Murphy (of recent Oppenheimer fame). The series is set in Britain after the first world war and follows the rise of a brutal mafia-style gang as they gain a foothold in Birmingham. It took me a few episodes to get into it, but now that I am, I’m absolutely hooked. But be forewarned: there’s a lot of violence, blood, swearing, and nudity.
What I’m Reading
I’ve been enjoying Sarah J Maas’s A Court of Thorn and Roses boxed set, which I downloaded to my Kobo some time ago. It’s a high fantasy (set in another world) and definitely epic. It follows the life of Feyre Archeron in a world split by a wall that separates humans and the fae with plenty of imaginative monsters tossed into the mix. If you enjoyed George RR Martin’s Game of Thrones, you’ll probably like this too, and you may see some similarities around the wall and the various kingdoms.
Denman News
We’re harvesting asparagus, and the chives, parsley, and other herbs are growing again and ready to use! I love being able to step outside and collect fresh herbs for our salad or cooking. The flower beds still need my attention, but the fruit and ornamental trees are in good shape. Life is good on Denman Island. Wishing you a fabulous spring!
Until next time,
XO
Jo-Anne
It’s really interesting to hear how your audiobook process is coming along. I’m afraid I don’t have the desire to do this with my books, but I admire you for taking this on with everything else you’re doing.
Thanks, Debra. The audio book is a grind, for sure. I can only hope it pays off in the end. Cheers!
You are always up for the excitement of a challenge! I don’t have to tell you that audio books are a huge undertaking!! It sounds great, well done! Yet another impressive accomplishment under your belt!
Thanks, Sally. I appreciate the kind words.
The audio sounds great. Well done. Have fun at Blue Heron Books. I love that bookstore and Dirk is such a great guy. He so kindly agreed to keep a few of my books in his store.
Thank you! The positive feedback is encouraging. Dirk is a gem.