Well, friends, it was an epic campaign, and you all were fantastic for your support. The book came in about 15th out of more than 400 entries, which I think is pretty good for a first time out: 103 readers willing to offer money for a book they could only get a glance at is encouraging.

O Supporter, Well-Wisher, and Fan of Fine Literature,

This is it: the final week of the Geek & Sundry fantasy novel contest. The last days to join (and help others join) the growing host who are treating themselves to a great novel and helping the world become a better place. The glorious finale of this epic campaign, and the perfect opportunity to put this thing over the top.

Here’s what you can do to make this the ne plus ultra of literary launches:

1) If you haven’t pre-ordered yet, you would be an outstanding human being if you did so. Precipitantly. Joyfully. With great anticipation! Like, right now.

2) Take 4 minutes to call out a friend, coworker, sibling, neighbor, mentor, or other brilliant person--by name--with a short email. "Hey, [name of visionary friend]! I’ve found this awesome novel, Leaf Falling, that you can get in in on from the get-go if you pre-order it on Inkshares. I’ve done it, and I feel like the sun shines brighter, the birds sing with more haunting beauty, and I may have achieved some small measure of transcendence. Join me, my friend! Give it a look! https://www.inkshares.com/books/leaf-falling" would do nicely.

3) Take a moment to bask in the warm glow of your own excellence for having supported the novel. I can’t adequately express my gratitude for your support.

Onward and upward!

M. Slusser

Well, in my excitement to share the news that Leaf Falling is in 13th place, I hit that 1 an extra time...

The book is just 3 slots out of the top ten, not more than a hundred. It’s very, very close. You can make the difference oh, so easily.

Sorry for the confusion, and thanks for the support!

O Wise Readers,

Here we are: two weeks out from the end of the contest. Your support has made Leaf Falling 113th place out of almost 400 entries. You are wonderful and amazing and appreciated more than you can know.

The leaders have a fairly impressive lead, but I think we can give them a run for their money. There’s nothing like a last-minute comeback, is there? Crowdfunding efforts often see their best performance near the end of the drive.

I’d love to end this thing in the top 10, and maybe even that elusive top 5. We’re only 16 readers away from the list: if each of you can get even one person to order (and make sure you’ve ordered yourself), we’d shoot right to number 5. (Often, suggesting to friends by name makes the most impact).

I’ve posted a new chapter for your reading enjoyment. Let’s light up the boards and help you and your friends get your hands on this novel!

Thank you so much. You all, collectively and individually, rock.