1) We’re still at 284 pre-orders. We haven’t sold any at all for the month of November. I know that this is because you all put as much force as you could into trying to get us to the top 3 in the G&S contest, and I am still grateful for that. However, the campaign is still going on through the end of the week. If you know of anyone who wants their signed copy, make sure to direct them to the page while there’s still time.

2) My last beta just finished reading the manuscript. It took him 2 days, which I find comforting. I enjoy it when my betas can’t put the book down! On top of that, he also gave me a WONDERFUL idea on enhancing a part of the book that I really think you’re going to love. I’m currently working on that part, and while I’m frenzied in my desire to perfect it, I’m also elated at how it’s turning out. I look forward to sharing it with you when the book comes out. ;)

3) Work on the sequel continues. It is... very dark, but I absolutely love it. Possibly even more than the first book, but for different reasons. I might start posting excerpts later on. Let me know if something like that would interest you.

That’s it for now, Faoii. I hope your own battles are going well. Shield up!

-Faoii-Tahani

This is a short update, but I figured I’d let you know what’s been going on since the end of the Geek and Sundry contest.

The biggest thing is that I finished going back through The Last Faoii again. This was the 19th and final full-edit before the campaign’s end, and I can’t really explain how amazing it was to get to the last page one more time. That night was composed of equal parts laughing and crying as I realized it was done. I must have looked crazy to my husband, but I don’t know what anyone expected. The emotions associated with completing a project that has been your main conquest for years... it’s indescribable.

For those that were curious, the final word count ended at 97,129 words. All told, more than 23,000 words were cut from the manuscript in order to make it perfect, and I do not regret having lost any of them. It’s so much cleaner than it was. Every word has a purpose; every description necessary. Acres of wordy and dry exposition fell before my scythe-- all things I’d originally thought were absolutely essential to the story. So I’d like to thank my betas again for helping me realize that less is actually more. 

We’ve been sitting at 284 pre-orders for several days now. Which is fine, but if you want me to post the audio recording of Chapter 4 then I need that last pre-order. Pick up your blade if you haven’t already-- there’s only a few days left before the campaign ends.

A few of you have asked me if I’m up for any syndicate picks for this last month. The easy answer is currently "no," but things can change. We were tied for first place in one last month, but weren’t even nominated for it this month. Don’t fret, however. It makes sense to give the syndicate picks to those that need the extra boost to reach their crowdfunding goals. As much as I would love to see another badge or two on our wall, it is not essential. We’ve already proved that we are worthy of publication. 

I think that’s it for now. If we get another pre-order I’ll put up the Chapter 4 audio. Remind your friends that the campaign is ending and this is their chance.

I hope your own battles are going well, faoii. Shield up!

-Faoii-Tahani