Yo, readers!

  Welcome to our 6th Detective Sunday! I almost lost count haha. I hope you all are enjoying yourselves this summer. It’s been extremely hot where I live, and there’s not many pools in sight that I can have all to myself. Oh, and remember to stay hydrated. I remember feeling really really tired to the point that I almost fell out during football practice. It’s not a great feeling; especially with sports, mind you. Anyways, onto the update!

  Well, I have a little surprise for you guys. This weekend I did some browsing through Inkshares and I felt I was missing plenty of things that other stable campaign books have. I wrote down some of the things and labeled them as weekly goals until I’m ready to start pre-ordering and such. Each Detective Sunday, I’ll bring something new to the table, or update the book synopsis and ask for opinions. However, today, this is the new "thing".                          https://youtu.be/0lJToqCG_n0

  That link leads to a video I made for Detective Diaries. It’s just a video of simple still images with text and instrumental music in the background. I’m starting to get familiar with the program I use, which is Premiere Pro, but it’s a paid program I won’t hold onto for long. So, I will be testing out different programs, and if you guys have suggestions, please don’t hesitate to message me. Also, this is my first time doing something like this, so excuse any errors. I’ll post the video on the book’s page as well for people checking out Detective Diaries. 

  Look forward to Chapter One: The Ward (Edited Version) sometime early next week. The beginning will be very different, and it will even feature Rean Bates--another key detective among the Detective Agency. Have a great morning/afternoon wherever you are, and remember to like the chapters and spread the word!

  Until next time, A.J.III

  Hello, readers.

  I’ve edited Chapter Zero: The Origins of Crime and added multiple pieces of dialogue and even additional information that will change your perspective of the main characters. Ideally, I had meant to talk about Amani’s reasons and her past a bit later, but I believe this is a better approach to open up how dire her situation is from the get-go, and the interaction between Carbine and Maverick is much better than before. Overall, I’ve added to the descriptions, characters, and widened the plot to make it fluid. I hope you enjoy.

  Hey, readers.

  Yo, readers!

  Welcome to our 5th Detective Sunday. I hope the weather has been bearable for you guys; for me it has been hectic. It has been raining non-stop, and not even letting up on the weekends. However, there’s a plus to this weather. I can just lock myself up in the house and write, or play games with friends. So, it’s not all that bad haha. For this update, I’ll just touch base with you guys on the future, and even show off some work of the artist I may be working with.

  I’ll show some of her art first.

  Her style of drawing has always been on the anime-ish side, but I’ve seen her also do a more mature drawing that had great detail. She also excels at making colorful symbols with nice patterns in the background. Also, these examples are just the covers of my fantasy series that we collabed on.

  Besides the art, I wanted to talk about the next step, which is pre-ordering. We got past Draft Fest, and during that event, I went around and read books and was blown away by many of them. I recommended my top three during the event, and they are well-deserved. However, in the end, I couldn’t get to everyone. Still, I enjoyed the event and got a few followers/likes myself. 

  I want to start pre-ordering before next Friday, or possibly after Friday. I’ll put out an update the day I start, and we may change up the update schedule depending on what extra I may have planned. Of course, Detective Sunday will stay as is. I see this as the main update that everyone will more than likely read on a Sunday morning or late in the afternoon.

  Well, that’s all for now. Have a good morning/afternoon wherever you are, and remember, be safe.

  Until next time, Sixth.  

  Yo, readers!

  How are you guys enjoying your week? Hopefully, everything is going well. This update comes as a surprise I’m sure, but I wanted to inform you guys about a potential artist I will be working with that is very talented. I’ve known her for more than a year now, and she specializes in character portraits, or groups of characters with a colored in/shaded background. I would post an example, but I’m having trouble finding her recent creation. The most important thing about this collab is that we’ve done this before, which was actually last year when I was making a fanfiction for a game we played, and it got a nice following from the community around the game. So, I’m hoping we can work together again because I know I’ll be leaving my characters in capable hands. Also, for pre-ordering, I’m considering sending out these portraits of characters or whatever else we may conjure up from the worktable to those who order. It’s a great offer. You get the pictures and the book haha.

  Besides my artistic friend, have any of you been reading drafts lately? Shame on you if you haven’t haha! There are some great drafts on Inkshares that deserve support, and a few that have a big following, but still deserves attention. A few of the books I’ve been reading are seriously my favorite picks for the first half of the week (I haven’t read them all yet).

  Proxy stands at the top out of the three books I’m fond of, and it’s a very gritty, and realistic fantasy book that doesn’t hold back. While the main character may be an alcoholic with everyday life problems such as bills and whatnot, the charm lies in the characterization of the characters and the dialogue. Besides that, greek mythology is involved, and that brings in the magical/fantasy part of the plot. There isn’t much to go on, but there are three parts Rebekka S. Leber has given us, so I’d recommend checking it out if you like innovative books.

  Next up is Reflection, and I must say that E.N. Ferril’s writing deserves to be recognized. This book doesn’t have anything new going on with it because it goes off of Beauty and the Beast, but that’s not the main point; the storytelling/writing is fluid and captivating, and the characters’ emotions are so well done in this story that I’m literally amazed by the power of stories of old that can be changed differently. There is much to say about this book from its’ action scenes, to the enormous tension build-up, and other similar positive things that make it amazing. Check it out if you enjoy a different side to stories/movies you’ve enjoyed.

  Last, but not least, is Dante by Bryanne Green. This book has the same gritty, and realistic fantasy like Proxy, but what makes it special is the modern lifestyle that is mashed together with unrealistic beings like shapeshifters or vampires. The main character is a warlock who seems to specialize in curing plenty of things, and is the best at what he does, but he has an illness he cannot cure himself. That alone was one of the things that lured me in, and his amusing vampire companion is the other. Consider this if looking for an interesting, and enjoyable read. 

This was another long update, but it was worthwhile! The next update may be two days from now, depending on if I have anything new to discuss. Also, please share my story around with people interested in detectives and mysteries, or make an update if you choose to. Either way, let’s make our community bigger, so that I could make the book better from new opinions. Have a good morning/afternoon wherever you are.

  Until next time, Sixth. 

  Bonjour, monsieurs and mademoiselles.

  Welcome to our 4th Detective Sunday! I can’t believe it’s been more than four weeks since I found Inkshares and decided to release my work here. Of course, none of this couldn’t have been possible without you all. I really appreciate your support. 

  Now, this update won’t really cover anything we’ve already been over this week, and the week before. This will be a relaxed, and open update about myself. I’ve talked so much about my book and our community here that I forget to introduce myself thoroughly so that you understand who I am. Wouldn’t you want to know the person you’re putting your money towards? I definitely would!

  My name is Anthony Jones III, other known as Trey (’cause the third), and I’m an outgoing person with high expectations for my success. From my friends’ viewpoint, I’m that weird funny guy who laughs at anything and is nice to everyone. Of course, my kindness may get abused, but I tend to choose my friends, and those I support wisely. Although, some may say I’m charismatic because I set examples of how to be capable despite the situation, and by being dependable, people looked to me for help when in a tight situation. The talent of being able to socialize and help people grow is a big thing in the world, and I believe everyone needs a little push in order to make it.

  I never had a drive to write when I was really young, but I did read books that interested me. I tried Harry Potter, but alas, it didn’t stick with me. I found myself more interested in books like Pendragon, Charlie Bone, House of Night, Hunger Games, and a few other series I’m having a hard time remembering. Those books had something special going on with them that lured me in, and it became a fantastic read with lovable, and hateful characters that made it so alluring. Still, there was a time I had stopped reading and became a more open person with my society. I grew distant from my casual reading sessions and went days without reading. Days went to weeks, then months, and finally years. It’s pretty weird that someone who doesn’t read decides to pick up a pen and write, ya’ know? 

  I wondered about why I decide to write, and the only thing I can say for an answer is that I wanted to be a storyteller. I wanted to be someone who could create and shape my own world, and make characters with complex lives that I could never have. Also, I wonder how authors feel when they write. Every author has their reasons, of course, but I’m asking when they assemble their plot, setting, characters, and so on--do they understand what they are writing? No one can understand these fictional lives we create, but we write it for our own happiness. It’s a deep thought that I’m surely exaggerating, but to you authors, know the reason why you write and push forward with that resolve. Whether big or small, that’s what pushes you to update consistently, possibly beg for support, and put yourself on the line between success and failure.

  I believe I’ve rambled on long enough haha! This is only a good portion of myself, but I think you all can understand the type of person I am from just reading this. Have a good morning/afternoon wherever you are.

  Au revoir, Sixth.  

  Hey, readers!

  I was planning to save this upload for our 4th Detective Sunday, but I believe I should let you all know early from a solid source. In my previous Detective Sunday, I explained that I had joined the co-event between Drinkshares: Last Call and Inkshares, but I didn’t give all the details. This update will be covering all of that. Also, go check out some of the other authors such as myself. They need your support as well!

  Get ready, because Draftshares is about to begin!

  When: May 30th - June 4th

  Readers: Check out as many drafts (projects currently in the Draft stage) as you can during the week of May 30th - June 3rd, and participate by opening and commenting on your favorite drafts’ excerpts.

  Why: To encourage community engagement...and, PRIZES!

  Prizes you say?: Yes! For every Draft (or synopsis*) you critique, you will be entered into a drawing for the following:

  Prizes for Anyone

• Three sets of a copy of Asteroid Made of Dragons, button, and shirt
• Signed copy of Five Minutes + 5 exclusive art pieces by Tabi Card
• Church of Technology/Deus Hex Machina swag (pins and shirts)
• Copy of Shadow of the Owl
• Signed copy of Ageless
• Three hardcover copies of Journey, A Short Story
• Order of Dax Harrison
• Order of Bones of the Past
• Order of Proxy
• Original drawing by Jack Katz

• Ladies of Sci Fi poster from A.C. Weston
• Mix CD set with custom cover art by C. Brennecke
• $25 in Inkshares Credits

  Prizes for Authors

• Video editing by Yicheng Liu
• Cover design by Elayna Mae Darcy
• Interview on The Warbler
• Guest spot on Drinkshares: Last Call
• $25 in Inkshares Credits

  Drafters: Let us know if you’d like to receive a soft critique or a hard critique by messaging a member of the DLC cast or tweeting your project link @drinkshareslc with either the #critiquemekindly or #critiqueme hashtags. If you want your synopsis critiqued, include the hashtag #critiquemypage too.

  Soft Critiques (#critiquemekindly): This is the default critique if the author has not specifically requested a hard critique. The tone should be supportive and curious. Point out things you like, comment on the broader story ideas, and ask questions.

  Hard Critique (#critiqueme): Only give a hard critique if the author has specifically asked for one. This is where grammatical errors, typos, and oversights can be pointed out. It’s best to include elements of a soft critique too, but you can unleash your inner editor a bit more here.

  *Synopsis Critique (#critiquemypage): Interested Drafters should create a thread in the Inkshares forum (https://www.inkshares.com/forum_threads?topic=promo), linked to their book draft, titled “Synopsis Edits: [Book Title Goes Here].”

  Throughout the week, fellow authors will browse these threads and offer help with editing and improving your project page synopsis so you’re better prepared to switch over to funding with a fantastic, compelling, error-free introduction to your book!

  Not sure where to start? Check out these Drafts first!:

  https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1QP0JPCCsijyIFIa0YKk4ZdQjHJPFW3mqtVvyOpNO3x4/edit?usp=sharing

  Watch: Tune in at https://youtu.be/82ged3xwwew on Saturday, June 4th @ 4/3 Central to watch us discuss the drafts and announce the winners!

  Until next time, Sixth.

  Yo readers,

  It’s finally Wednesday, and you know what that means...another chapter update! The long awaited final chapter I will be posting on here: Chapter Four: Society, is up and ready for you all to read. Sorry for the late update, but I had a long meeting earlier about college, money, etc., so please excuse me if this is a bad time! Now, from now on, there will only be organized updates for Sunday, and I may update you all occasionally outside of the regular schedule for any important information, or certain things I would like to share with all of you. Comment, recommend or message me about the last chapter if you’d like to. It all gets better from here on!

  Remember, enjoy your morning/evening wherever you are.

  Until next time, Sixth.

  Yo, readers!

  Welcome to our 3rd Detective Sunday! Our growth is getting better and better every week; let’s keep it up. There a few things we need to go over, and I’m sure it’ll be important moves for Detective Diaries; however, I also have news about my past success. I had recently graduated from high school, so I’ll be able to put more time towards my dreams and my future college. So, you guys will have me full-time until my summer classes start up in July, but I may get a small job just to pay for things, such as a car, or for tuition. I’ll let you guys know about that later on, but now, let’s talk about the future for our book.

  So, I had browsed through the forums a while back, and noticed there was a thread labeled Draft Fest. I decided to go ahead and get involved with that since Detective Diaries is kinda new and still is in drafting phase. The Draft Fest period will be lasting from May 30th-June 5th. Apparently, it’s a co-hosting event between Drinkshares:Last Call and Inkshares, and I believe this will all be taking place on Twitter. Excuse me if all the bold letters are not to your liking; just pointing out the important details. Also, this will be a great thing for Detective Diaries, for we could gain more readers and recommendations that could help us in the long run. I aim for the 750 goal because I’m all for challenges, and I want the world to read this.

  Next up is our destined last chapter. On Wednesday, you all will get the last chapter I will be posting on Inkshares. The chapter will be titled: Chapter Four: The Society. Now, a big thing about this chapter is that it will be a long one, and it will connect the majority of the problem surrounding the Twilight District. I’ve been pretty big on dialogue between Rice, Amani, and Carbine, but there’s a reason for everything they say. Oh, and I will introduce you all to a small amount of new characters that you might like.

  Lastly, we will talk about the date for when I will launch the pre-ordering phase. I’m considering starting it two weeks from now, or possibly three. I was talking to an author on here recently, and he told me some really important tips when transferring. I shouldn’t rush the process, and I need to reach out. Those two things I will prioritize because there’s no need to rush this, and I will need all of my readers to help make this a reality. I don’t know if I have said this before, but I love Inkshares because it prioritize a reader’s opinion, and they help the authors become known. There’s nothing better than that. An author should know that your book will only matter if readers desire it. It’s a tough competition, but I’ll take it head-on!

  Thanks for reading, and enjoy your morning/afternoon wherever you are.

  Until next time, Sixth.   

Hey, readers!

I know this is pretty unexpected, but I needed to upload Chapter Three: Theory today to eliminate any tardiness I might have if I wait for Wednesday. I’m going to be busy this entire week since I’m graduating, but I’ll be updating you all on our 3rd Detective Sunday still. I had to scramble and go back over the chapter because I made a hugeeeeeee mistake that every author hates. I ended up not saving my chapter and had to go back over everything that was perfect, but I believe it all went okay in the end since I got my point across in this chapter and covered everything. I’m just missing minor visual details between the conversations. Well, enjoy the chapter and let me know if you liked the suspense. Have a good afternoon/morning wherever you are, and sorry for the unexpected update.

Until next time, Sixth.