The Romany Epistles

Yet another adventure in Wren's world

2011-11-04T14:36:00.000-07:00

Wren Romany fans, can you guess the name of the nameless stranger in this short story?

Tragedy

If you missed the first part of the story...

Blond Stranger

Hopefully there will be more to come. :)

- Rachel Rossano
(Author of Wren Romany)

Another adventure in Wren's world

2011-10-21T08:31:00.000-07:00

I write a bit of flash fiction (a story under 1,000 words) for another website. For this week's challenge, I ventured into Wren Romany's world again. You are welcome to visit and see if you can spot the character from Wren's novel.

http://www.cleverfiction.com/4/post/2011/10/blond-stranger.html

Hopefully there will be more where that one came from. :)

- Rachel Rossano
(author of Wren Romany)
http://rachel-rossano.blogspot.com

An Official Facebook Page

2011-09-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

You can now connect to the Romany Epistles on Facebook. Talk to the writers (some of them) and see what they have been doing over the years. You can encourage those who are still finishing their stories. Also, you can discuss your favorite characters or fun bits from different siblings' stories. Come, stop by, and join in.

The Final Chapter (before the Epilogue)

2011-05-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

Wren's journey has reached its close. There is still the Epilogue to follow, but that will most likely wait for the tangible paper and ink version of the book. Please stop by for the final chapter and offer any feedback you might wish on the chapter, the ending, or the book. I am curious what you think. :)

- Rachel Rossano
Author of Wren Romany

A Writer's Confession

2011-05-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I lied. It wasn't intentional. How was I to know I wasn't going to finish Wren up in one more chapter. *sigh* So, here I am say I am sorry, but there will be another chapter after this one. I have a few more characters and a romance to resolve, given the characters cooperate. If they don't there might be more chapters.

So, this chapter (Chapter XXIV) is an eventful one. Hawthorne meets his end, Wren deals with a great deal of pain, and Tourth...well, Tourth discovers at least one of the things he missed while he wallowed in his guilt. I would love to hear what you think of it all. Please come and read (and comment *hint hint*). :)

- Rachel Rossano
Author of Wren Romany

A battle, a death, and the beginning of the end

2011-05-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

Chapter XXIII is up. Only one chapter to go, I think. Come and enjoy the excitement.

Excerpt from Wren's part of the chapter:

Within moments Svhen, myself and our eleven companions were standing between two forces intent on battle. Only the lack of a signal held their fervor at bay.

Excerpt from Tourth's portion:

A second falcon, this one the white female, dove and attacked, carrying away a leather helmet and effectively clearing men from the central battle. I spotted Wren’s dark head for the first time.

She went down on one knee, clutching her side.

Her opponent lifted his sword.

Come, read, and comment. Be sure to look for the feedback questions at the end of the chapter. I am eager to hear what you think.

- Rachel Rossano
Author of Wren Romany's story

The Battle Begins

2011-05-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

Hiller and Svhen are marching to the chopping block. Will Wren and company make it in time to save them? Tourth accompanies King Orac to meet Enforcer Hawthorne. Bloodshed is inevitable. The question is whose. Come, read, and comment please. :)

- Rachel Rossano
Author of Wren Romany

Chapters 3 and 4

2011-04-30T16:03:00.000-07:00

And up goes chapters 3 and 4 of Aquila! Yay for progress!

Wren discovers her life has a price and Tourth faces a battle

2011-04-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

The tension is rising. Wren discovers a crutial new bit of info and Tourth marches into battle, sort of. Come, read, and comment, please. Look for the questions at the end of the chapter. I would love to hear your answers.

- Rachel Rossano
Author of Wren Romany

Aquila is alive!

2011-04-27T13:38:00.001-07:00

I am in the process of updating Aquila's story. Chapters 1 and 2 are posted! Read and leave any feedback you care to share! :-)

Haley
for Aquila

The Romany Epistles meet Facebook

2011-04-07T17:25:00.001-07:00

Hello All,

The 9 authors all appreciate your patience with us as we have waned in our diligence to attend to our stories as we aught but beg for you to continue to bear with us. After receiving a message from a follower asking if we were still planning on completing our journey I took it upon myself to regroup the gang and encourage continued progress. However, life is relentless and loves to throw everything it can at us in our endeavors so more patience is required, yet we are working on it. In fact, in our froward progress we have popped up on Facebook! Yes, Romany clan, welcome to the 21st century. :-) Be sure and look up "The Romany Epistles" as well as each of the siblings. Currently Daelia, Wren, Aiden and Aquila are up (look up their name with last name, i.e. Aquila Romany, Wren Romany). Any future chapters posted will still be posted on Blogspot, but we will be posting updates on our progress on Facebook as well as here on the main page of the Romany Epistles.

With regards,

Haley Crenwelge

Representing Aquila Romany

(Uh-key-luh, NOT Uh-quill-uh ;-) )

Tourth confronts his past

2011-04-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

Tourth comes face to face with his past. King Orac is the father of a man who died at Catrona, by Tourth's hand. Will he see Tourth as a potential noble or the murderer of his son?

Come, read, and comment, please. Look for the question at the end of the chapter. I would love to have your feedback.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter XX

A Plan is Hatched and a Falcon Returns

2011-02-28T20:47:00.000-08:00

A plan to rescue the captured men is formed and one of Wren's falcons makes a dramatic entry. Come, read, and comment, please. :)

- Rachel Rossano
author of Wren Romany

Action, Family, with a Dash of Blooming Romance

2011-02-13T20:57:00.000-08:00

Thank you for all your comments on the last chapter. I listened and tried to keep those things in mind while writing this one. Wren and Tourth get thrown a couple unexpected developments. See what is next for our brave couple. Come, read and comment, please. :)

- Rachel Rossano

The Plan Changes Again

2011-02-07T13:51:00.000-08:00

Come and read the latest installment of Wren's tale. Wren arrives back at Iselyn with bad news and Tourth makes a discovery. Come, read, and comment...please.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Meets an Old Aquaintance

2011-01-21T14:42:00.000-08:00

Wren runs into an old aquaintance and wonders what she has gotten herself into. Hiller, Dardon, and Svhen force Tourth to deal with his demons. Come and read all about it. Please drop a line and let me know what you thought.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren makes a deal

2011-01-10T13:49:00.000-08:00

For all of you long suffering and patient readers out there, Wren Romany's story is finally moving again. The air and the plot thicken like porridge as Wren makes a deal that she quickly regrets. Come, read, comment, and enjoy.

- Rachel Rossano

A sign of life!

2010-05-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

Miracle of miracles, there are three new chapters for Daelia! And hopefully more to come...

Life Changes

2009-12-10T12:12:00.000-08:00

I realize that I have been out of touch with Wren and Tourth followers. I want to apologize for leaving you patiently waiting in the dark for so long. I can offer some light now, but I am sorry to say that I am going to have to ask you to wait even longer for more of Wren and Tourth's story.

There have been some big life changes happening on this side of the Internet divide. The biggest is that my hubby and I are expecting twins May 2010. We are very happy and excited about this blessing. However, it has become very clear that I am going to have to put my writing on hold for a while. I am about four months along, and the pregnancy has already had a few complications. Between that and some other family issues going on, I am not about to give Wren and Tourth the time and attention they deserve.

Don't despair, however. I am going to be back. I have fought so long for this story and it has come so far that I refuse to let it die. I will pick up the story again where I left off and finish it, Lord willing, after I have recovered from childbirth and adjusted to the expansion of our family. Meanwhile, I want to thank you for your patience and support. It has meant a great deal to me.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren discovers a problem and Tourth bares his soul

2009-09-08T13:57:00.000-07:00

This is a bit of a tramatic chapter. Wren discovers a complication which is going to cause a great deal of trouble, and Tourth finally speaks of his burden. Come and read and comment. Please tell me what you think of it all.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter XIV

Wren leaves

2009-07-23T14:58:00.000-07:00

I know it isn't up to my usual standards. I am also quite sure that I am not happy with it. (Charissa would ask, "Where are you ever happy with something you write?") However, with all that in mind, here is the next chapter of Wren Romany's tale. I hope you enjoy it.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter XIII

Help has arrived...

2009-06-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

Lords Hiller and Iscarus have come to help, but will Tourth let them. Come and find out in the newest chapter of Wren Romany's tale.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter XII

What is Tourth going to say?

2009-06-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

Come and read Tourth's response when he finds out that Wren has done. Please let me know what you think.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter XI

To the long-suffering readers of my story:

2009-05-31T16:26:00.000-07:00

By way of a brief update, I am still plodding along with Daelia's story--working on it a little at a time. I have set myself a deadline of Spring 2010 to finish the rough draft and get it edited. I may not post every chapter as I write it, but we'll see.

Thank you to anyone who is still remotely interested in reading my book after 3 years :)

Rachel Brewer (a.k.a Rachel III)

Is Help Available?

2009-05-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

Wren and Kat are meeting with Lord Eyrant in this chapter. Will he help Tourth despite his unwillingness to ask for help? Please let me know what you think of this chapter.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter Ten

The First Ninth Chapter of Wren Romany

2009-05-08T10:33:00.000-07:00

I know a few of you were a bit nervous that I was going to make it past the eighth chapter, the place where I stopped on the old story. I can understand you concern. However, Wren is going strong. My life just slowed my writing down a bit. It does that at times. :)

So, here is Chapter Nine of Wren Romany's story. The first of its kind. Come and find out more about Wren's plans and why Tourth doesn't want to ask for help. Please let me know what you think. :)

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter IX

A Decision! Finally!

2009-04-28T12:27:00.001-07:00

Yes! Tourth finally reaches a decision. Wren makes plans of her own. I wonder what you think of them both. :)

Wren Romany - Chapter VIII

Wren's Chapter VII is here!

2009-04-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

Wren and Tourth discuss the fact that a decision needs to be made. I am curious what you will think of their discussion. What decision should he make?

Wren Romany - Chapter VII

Wren becomes the Ghost of Davron Alley!

2009-04-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

Wren continues discovering new twists to her situation and gets to used her throwing knives in this chapter.

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter VI

Chapter V of Wren Romany's tale

2009-04-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

Wren Romany is continuing to find her place among this strange family. Come and read. Please comment, even if it is only to say you read it.

Thanks,

Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter V

Chapter IV of Wren is up!

2009-04-06T11:23:00.001-07:00

Chapter four of Wren's tale is continuing. Wren earns Svhen's grudging respect, and she learns more about Kat's past. Tourth continues to study her in an effort to figure out the anomaly of Wren Romany. Come, enjoy, and comment. :)

Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter IV

Wren's new chapter

2009-03-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, so things went more quickly than I expected and the chapter is done. Please come and read. I would love to hear what you think. :)

- Rachel Rossano

Wren Romany - Chapter III

Wren is moving forward

2009-03-23T10:19:00.000-07:00

I don't have a chapter yet, but I thought I would spread the good news that Wren Romany is showing life again. I will, Lord willing, be posting a new chapter soon. :)

- Rachel Rossano

New Chapter

2008-11-12T15:03:00.000-08:00

I have just posted Chapter 17. Christmas break is giving me a little bit more time to work on Daelia, yay! Thank you, everyone who has stuck with me!

--Rachel Brewer

2008-10-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

AIDEN'S FAREWELL

Please go to Aiden's site to read a farewell message from Aiden and his author.
Thank you all for a great journey that now continues into the editing process.

the end has come

2008-09-29T06:01:00.000-07:00

Come read the finale of Zoe's tale! Thanks for coming along with me for this tumultuous but exhilerating ride! I've enjoyed it a lot and I hope you have too. Let me know what you think of the ending.

Au revoir my friends!
Emily as Zoe

2008-09-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Hi All!
Aiden is finally meeting Duard. Will either survival the encounter, either might lose his life, but one could lose his soul.

AIDEN ROMANY CHAPTER 39

2008-09-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
I have been on a mini vacation with my dad and so this chapter is a little late. However, the plus side is that you have less time to wait till the next chapter! So, read this one quick so your all up to date come Monday, when I shall post again!
Join Aiden as he comes closer to his answers... well, almost. Will this boy never learn?
CHAPTER 37 ~ REGECTING THE ANSWER

Aiden Chapter 36

2008-08-25T17:03:00.001-07:00

It's always sad when you know you are getting close to the end of a story. For the reader certaintly, but for the writer as well. It will be hard for me to walk away from Aiden and I'll be sad when his final sentence is written. It's always hard to say goodbye to a character, but Aiden is in many ways my inner character. Aiden has gone through more of my own struggles, especially with Deus, than any other character I've every written. And that will be hard to give up as well.
You are now coming to the final chapters in Aiden's journey both to home and to himself. And I am even farther than you. For you still have a quite a few chapters left, while I am one chapter from closing Aiden's story with that ever important final sentence. And although it does last longer for me, as I have to edit and rewrite, it is finishing that first version that gives you the sense that what you have lived in your mind is now fully on paper.
So, while it is a sad affair, more vivid in Aiden's case, I am looking forward to the next story that will march it's way onto the freedom of paper. For I'm dying to start writing my Liberty Series and I've vowed not to start her until Aiden is finished his first draft. So, I'll continue to write and hopefully you will continue to read and when we are both done, we can say we learned something on the journey and had a grand time doing it!

AIDEN
CHAPTER 36 ~ THE WHY

New Chapter....finally!

2008-08-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

I have just posted Chapter 15 of Daelia. My life has slowed down a bit, so hopefully I can be a little more faithful about writing from here on out. Given the fact that 8 months have passed since I last posted a chapter, I will understand if you would prefer to just wait until the first draft is finished before reading. But if you choose to honor me with your comments, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks!

2008-08-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

AIDEN

CHAPTER 34 ~ THE VOICE

TWO YEARS SEVEN MONTHS

AND TWO WEEKS AFTER BANISHMENT

Traveling can leave far too much time for thinking.

2008-07-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Aiden posts again. Well, I guess it's Kristalyn who is actually posting this time. But her thoughts are sure on Aiden and her brother Tray.
Check it out!

unavoidable confrontation

2008-07-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Let's just say none of you will want to miss Chapter 47 - Confrontation - of Zoe's tale. We're almost to the end! Hang in there!

- Emily

more Zoe

2008-07-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

Last week I posted a new chapter of Zoe. If you want more, leave me some feedback, okay? :-) We're not quite there yet, but I'm promise, we've very, very, VERY close to the end. (Which kinda makes me sad....)

Later! God Bless-

Emily

2008-07-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

AIDEN CHAPTER 32
A CHOICE

Hello All! Sorry to make you wait so long. I have added a few more chapters during your reading break. I believe I now have to write about eight more chapters and the story will be finished. Ah, how odd that will feel! Of course, that is all provided that Aiden and Kristalyn do their part and that hasn't been going so well lately. Everything I try to write from this chapter forward, they seem to believe they have something better and proceed to write it with or without my permission. Good thing I've learned they are usually right! For instance, Aiden did his own little rewrite in this section, I'm sure your recognize it when you get there. I questioned him about it, but he said he had to do it and of course that meant I shrugged and let him. For all my complaining, you must realize that as a writer it is our greatest frustration, but also our greatest joy when characters come into their own and take over their story. To us, it means they have fully developed into characters we can love and share an adventure with. I hope you are able to do that with Aiden, Kristalyn, and their friends!

Kristalyn's POV: I have to tell him goodbye. He's going to leave. I know it. What will the others do? What will I do? I don't want him to go. But, his brother.... Oh, Deus! The tears want to come and I can't let them. I'm going to tell him goodbye and I know when I do, it will be the last time I lay eyes on him. The thought tears me apart. Aiden, what are you doing?

Chapter 32 A Choice

QUESTION! Who is your favorite character from Aiden Romany's Story? Let me know!

conclusion, of a sort

2008-06-12T18:13:00.001-07:00

No, it's not the end of Zoe...but Chapter Forty-Five is the last section containing two other main characters of the tale. Hope you enjoy! I admit: I loved writing this section.

at long last

2008-06-03T05:31:00.001-07:00

There's finally more Zoe! Let me know what you think! I hope you all enjoy this new (and rather fun) chapter.

2008-05-29T21:58:00.000-07:00

AIDEN ROMANY
CHAPTER 30
RAGE KILL

Travon has returned and Aiden gets another message. It all pushes him to act, but in what way? Can he finally bring this all to an end? And what happens then? If he commits the final deed, will he be free or will the chains wrap around his heart even tighter?

Kristalyn's POV: He's haunted my dreams since that awful night and now Aiden is going to... but is it right? Deus, I'm so confused! I want this too, and yet... Help us! No! Wait! Aiden! Don't....

Don't miss the newest chapter in Aiden Romany's story!

2008-05-21T19:13:00.000-07:00

AIDEN'S
CHAPTER 29 ~ NEVER GOOD ENOUGH

The attacks have begun and they are making an impression, on more than just the enemy. He's been watching her, studying her. Aiden knows her heart, he's known it for a long time now and he knows it's going to get them both into trouble. He is trouble, he always will be, it will never change. But is he convincing her or himself? Too much is happening, to fast and he is very aware that soon, they will be split up. Can he keep all his precious secrets safe until then? She is learning more all the time, but does it even matter? Things are moving fast, perhaps too fast. Can Aiden keep up or will the unthinkable finally happen?

Read Aiden's newest chapter to find your answers!

2008-05-16T17:44:00.000-07:00

AIDEN
Chapter 28 MOVE OUT AND FAST

Kristalyn meets up with old friends and it makes her see her new friends differently. Plus, Aiden is acting strange, is there something else he's hiding or is he realizing new things too? Then it's time to start making attack plans, despite tension among the top ranks. Can Kristalyn pull her thoughts together in time or will Aiden's attitude be her downfall?

Check out Aiden's newest chapter!

confusion

2008-05-15T05:58:00.001-07:00

Zoe is back, and there are changes in the wind. Let me know what you think!

freedom

2008-04-29T04:39:00.000-07:00

More Zoe is up! Please leave comments - I've throughly enjoyed the last few! :-)

Chapter 26 Making Plans TOGETHER

2008-04-25T14:39:00.000-07:00

HI All! Are you enjoying the new posts? Aiden is hard at work trying to figure out what happens next. He knows he's going to help the Hunter, but at what price? Traveling together might be more of a task than either Aiden or Kristalyn can handle! And what is awaiting for them at the end of the road or is their journey just beginning? Don't miss out on Aiden's newest chapter!

new developments

2008-04-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hey All!

A new chapter, Chapter Forty-One, is up for you. It's nice and long, I promise. :-) Enjoy!

2008-04-18T06:09:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
Charissa is back!
First off, MEGA thanks to Rachel for keeping up on posts while I was gone and to Emily for reminding us both Aiden needed a new chapter up! I hope you have all enjoyed the story thus far. I've loved reading the few comments I have received from you. I've read them all and they've been a great encouragement to both me and Aiden. I'm having so much fun living with him and being a part of his story and I hope you are as well! Hopefully, this next chapter will make up for the length between posts as it is rather lengthy. I didn't realize it until I went to post, but them I'm sure you won't mind! Aiden is making some huge changes and decisions as he begins to come to terms with who he is and who he has let surround and define him. What do you think?
Writing away,
Charissa

P.S. Make sure you check out my personal site by clicking on my name in the side bar and then Dream Mountain Adventures. It's been drastically update and will continue to be so. Plus, I'll be posting cool polls from time to time and I can't wait to get your opinion on them!

big decisions

2008-04-02T11:39:00.000-07:00

Chapter Forty of Zoe is up and ready to be read. Thanks for the many comments on my last chapter, by the way, I really enjoyed reading them all! :-)

death

2008-03-26T08:26:00.001-07:00

All I shall say is you do not want to miss reading this chapter. :-) Enjoy!

battles, brothers, and plans

2008-03-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

Hey people! Sorry that I didn't post this update on the site a week or so ago, but there's another new chapter of Zoe up. I posted chapter 37 last week, and I just put up chapter 38. Please let me know what you think, both chapters are near and dear to my heart. Of course, ever since the battle started getting close and finally arrived, I've really started to enjoy just about every aspect of the story! I love writing the action sequences. :)

Anyway, here's the link to Chapter 37 - Aiden - and Chapter 38 - Plans. Hope you enjoy!

More Aiden

2008-03-01T11:05:00.001-08:00

Sorry about the delay, but there are two more chapters of Aiden posted for those who are following his adventure.

~ Temporary Posting Person

at long last...

2008-02-26T05:09:00.000-08:00

...everyone gets the chapter they've been wanting! Come check out the latest challenge our warrior-maid has to face in Chapter 36 - Trust - of Zoe.

messages, choices, decisions

2008-02-18T08:14:00.000-08:00

And here's another chapter for you. I hope you're all enjoying the quick, regular chapter postings...but I'm afraid it won't be going on for much longer. I think I can keep going until about chapter thirty-seven, then I need to make sure that Charissa and I are posting at the same pace again. Thank you very much for your comments - I loved the last ones! They were both helpful and fun to read. (Those are the Best kind, in my opinion.)

Anyway...here's Chapter Thirty Five!

brewing battle

2008-02-15T07:22:00.000-08:00

Conflict is coming and Tancred and Zoe are (predictably) right in the middle of it all. Come check out Chapter 34 and let me know what you think!

By the way - THANK YOU to all those who have faithfully been commenting and/or giving advice. I really appreciate it. I am saving all your comments to use for consideration during my second draft editing. :)

problems for Brysa and Zoe

2008-02-11T17:42:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Chapter Thirty Three is up. Check it out and let me know what you think, okay? :)

chapter thirty-two!

2008-02-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

Incredibly, I have returned rather quickly with more for you to read on the Firebrand, the Hunter, and their companions. Don't forget your sacred duty to COMMENT! ;)

Aiden is Back

2008-02-04T19:14:00.000-08:00

Aiden is back and moving forward. Come, read, and comment on Chapter 22!

Zoe!

2008-02-04T05:30:00.001-08:00

She's back and the excitement is high. Check out what happened next in Chapter Thirty One, okay? :) Enjoy!

Hey All!

2008-01-25T06:01:00.000-08:00

More Zoe is up and ready for your perusal. Don't forget to leave comments - I know that you've heard that a million times now, but it's as true now as it was before. We all love feedback. :)

Chapter Thirty - Challenge - of Zoe.

Finality

2007-12-07T15:38:00.001-08:00

Aquila's final chapter is posted. Please read and comment!

Chapter 13

2007-12-06T20:27:00.001-08:00

Stymphalids, abandonment, and desparation. Chapter 13 of Aquila is up!

Chapter 12

2007-12-05T12:36:00.000-08:00

Activity is picking up with Aquila. Chapter 12 has been posted!

Chapter 11

2007-12-03T16:33:00.000-08:00

Imprisonment and lost! Chapter 11 is now posted on Aquila. Please read and comment!

Worlds pre-orders about to close!

2007-11-28T20:44:00.000-08:00

The proof copy of Worlds Unseen arrived today, and it's gorgeous! It needed a little tweaking, but that's now done and the finished product will be ready-to-order before this month is out. In the interest of getting this book on Amazon in time for Christmas, I will only be taking pre-orders until November 30. If you'd like an early, autographed copy of my first fantasy novel, place your order on LittleDozen.com today!

Shameless though it is, I'm going to mention that Worlds would make a great Christmas gift for the pre-teen/teen/young adult in your life who enjoys Narnia, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, et al. This is clean fantasy with a backbone of truth and a lot of heart. Copies are $15.00, and like I said, they're beautiful! Deborah's cover art and design are gorgeous.

We're on a roll!

2007-11-26T21:54:00.001-08:00

Chapter 10 is up on Aquila! Please read and let me know what you think!

Reposted

2007-11-16T23:32:00.000-08:00

Thank y'all for your patience. Chapter 9 of Aquila has been officially rewritten and reposted. Please comment and let me know what you think!

New Zoe!

2007-11-01T06:05:00.000-07:00

Tancred heard the noise at the front door even from his place in the kitchen near the rear of the house. Instantly he stopped eating and quietly reached over to his nearby sword. His right hand gave a twinge of pain around the stitched wound as he moved, but Tancred was used to the injury by now and automatically blocked it out. Strapping his scabbard to his side, he stood from the table, slowly drew the blade, and advanced silently into the hallway.

A few seconds later he was at the front door. He noticed a piece of paper at the base of the door but ignored it for the time being. More interesting to him than the contents of what he was sure was another note would be the person who had delivering it. Without a sound, he unbarred the door. Sword at the ready, he opened the heavy front door in one quick movement.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter 28 of Zoe is up for your perusal!

Zoe - and Aiden

2007-10-05T03:37:00.001-07:00

Hey Everyone!

I'm BACK! I'm happy to announce that the latest chapter of Zoe is up and ready for reading, comments, etc. Please leave lots of them, I love reading every single one.

For those of you who might be unaware of this, Zoe and Aiden are two Romany stories that are very intricately woven together. Both stories stand alone--they don't depend on the other story to convey a good tale or a solid plot--but each of them are enhanced by the the other. You'll have a lot more "inside knowledge" on what is happening in Aiden if you read Zoe; and you'll have lots more info on the conflict in Zoe if you read Aiden. Charissa Taylor (author of Aiden) and I have worked really hard to blend our stories in a manner that is fun and interesting, while not giving away any plot twists or anything in each other's stories.

Anyway, so the point of that was: if you want to get some more background and depth to Zoe, go read Aiden's story too! Especially, I might add, if you like this latest chapter of Zoe's tale. It and Aiden's last posted chapter tie together very closely.

Thank you and have a SUPER day!
Emily Nelson

it's over

2007-09-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Chapter Twenty-Nine of Taerith is up--and with that, the story is finished.

Thanks for your readership, your encouragement, your criticism, your caring. I've loved having you along.

penultimate

2007-09-19T04:50:00.001-07:00

The second to last chapter of Taerith has been posted. The story will end on Saturday.

It's been a good ride!

Come read Chapter Twenty-Eight.

encounters

2007-09-14T05:37:00.000-07:00

Beside him, Borden drew his sword. He started forward.

He stopped. Gasped. He began to tremble, and Kardas saw his knuckles go white as he gripped his sword. His eyes stared, not at the water or the island, but at something in the darkness no one else could see.

From his other side, Doublin cursed softly. Kardas kept his eyes on Borden.

What is it? He nearly asked. What do you see?

* * *

Chapter Twenty-Seven of Taerith has been posted. Read, comment :). The next (penultimate) chapter will go up on Wednesday the 19th; the final installment on Saturday the 22nd. Thanks for being with me on this ride :).

the absence of Taerith

2007-09-08T19:11:00.000-07:00

Hello faithful readers,

Those of you who are keeping up with Taerith may have noted the absence of an update today. Never fear... I haven't fallen behind. In fact, the first draft of Taerith is finished.

However, I'm not sure when the next chapter will go up. This is because, in Chapter Twenty-Seven, one of the Romany siblings makes an entry into the story. I need that sibling's author to ok the scenes wherein he appears. That author, our very own Sgt. Charissa Taylor, was deployed to Iraq today. (We're praying for you, Kristy!) I'm not sure when she'll be able to get back to me. As soon as she does, Taerith will resume its regular programming.

See you then :).

escape

2007-09-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

Taerith was standing near the edge of the pond. Overhead, a huge flock of birds raced toward the fens. This was no smooth migration: it was a roiling, terrified bid for life and liberty. They looked and sounded like creatures with winged wolves on their heels.

Taerith turned and faced Findal as the circus master approached. His blue eyes were sharp. “Tonight,” he said.

Findal started to protest. He turned in the direction the birds had flown, looking down the hill to a copse of trees.

It seemed to him that something was there. Something not human―a shadow waiting.

He blinked and looked again, but could see nothing.

He nodded. “Tonight.”

* * *

Chapter Twenty-Six of Taerith is up! Come, read, comment.

(And don't forget to pick up your free copy of Worlds Unseen: The Ebook Edition, an earlier work of fantasy.)

What is her story about again?

2007-09-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

Rachel Brewer slowly slips into the upstairs room of Wayside Central where her fellow writers have been diligently working away for the past several months. A few heads pop up from their computers as she enters, eyes follow as she tip-toes past, trying to appear as though she has been there the whole time. Quietly she slides into her desk chair, guiltily dropping a wrinkled, unfinished copy of her latest chapter into the publishing basket--all she has to show for a summer of skipping meetings and ignoring deadlines.

She sighes. It is hard to keep up with her writing when her classes and job demand so much of her time. Since her writing job doesn't pay much, she somehow let things start to slide; just a little at first, a meeting here and there, but pretty soon a month had past, then the whole summer had gone . . . with nary a step into the office and barely a word added to her manuscript-in-progress.

Now that she is looking around at her co-writers, she realizes just how far behind she has become. She feels neglectful of her faithful critics as well. Turning back to her blinking computer screen, she tries to concentrate. Concentrate...concentrate...

Suddenly the clock at the bottom corner of the screen reminds her that she is about to be late for a class. Grabbing her purse, she hurries back past the questioning eyes, and out the door.

Thus it continues.

--Later that day--

You (a faithful critic of all Romany Epistles) walk into Wayside Central to pick up copies of the newest chapters, which you will then take home and spill a little red ink over (very politely of course) and return in the morning. As you pass the publishing basket, you happen to glance in and notice a rather sorry looking, stained couple of pages, hastily stapled together, and thrown in haphazardly. If your curiosity gets the better of you, click here to covertly reach into the basket and take a peek...

and now, we break for a small announcement

2007-09-01T13:58:00.000-07:00

Worlds Unseen: The Ebook Edition, by Taerith author Rachel Starr Thomson, is here :).

If you'd like to help get the ball rolling, feel free to copy the below announcement and post it on your blog, email it to all your friends, skywrite it from an aeroplane...

Worlds Unseen

Book 1 in The Seventh World Trilogy
by Rachel Starr Thomson

Click to Download the Free eBook Now!

The Council for Exploration Into Worlds Unseen believed there was more to the world and its history than the empire had taught them. Treating ancient legends as history, they came a little too close to the truth. Betrayed by one of their own, the Council was torn apart before they could finish their work.

Forty years later, Maggie Sheffield just wants to leave the past behind. Memories of the Orphan House where she grew up are fading; memories of her guardians' murder are harder to shake. When a dying friend shows up on her doorstep bearing the truth about the Seventh World--in the form of a written covenant with evil--Maggie is sent on a journey that will change her forever. Along with the Gifted gypsy Nicolas Fisher, who hears things no one else can, Maggie joins with the last surviving members of the Council and a group of eastern rebels led by a ploughman and a princess to discover the truth.

It won't be easy. The Seventh World has long been controlled by the Blackness, and its monstrous forces are already on Maggie's trail.

Readers Weigh In

"Wow, Rachel, oh my goodness.... wow. I fell in love with Worlds Unseen. I finished it a few moments ago, with tears in my eyes. It was really touching...and brilliant, and beautiful. The whole thing reminded me of a mix between C.S. Lewis, Ted Dekker, and Diana Wynne Jones, while being wholly different."

"Your story is wonderful! You are such an artist and you paint such beautiful metaphors. I am in awe."

"You have a gorgeous poetic way of putting things that's incredible and enviable. I love the huge grand scale of things that your world runs on, yet your characters make it personal in such an amazing way."

"I thought all of your characters were great! They were real, which is what I've always loved about your writing."

Coming Soon: Worlds Unseen in hard copy!

It's still in production, but Worlds will be available as a "real" book in the next few months, with beautiful cover artwork by Deborah Thomson and availability on Amazon.com and special order from bookstores across the continent. Watch for it!

pursued

2007-08-30T07:35:00.001-07:00

“We followed a girl in here,” he said. “We want to know where she went. Out of our way, would you?”

A dangerous glint in Taerith’s blue eyes warned the men that trouble had found them. “I think not,” he said.

* * *

Chapter Twenty-Four of Taerith has been posted. Come, read, comment... and my thanks.

Just in time to help

2007-08-28T11:06:00.000-07:00

The moment I stepped out into the sunlight, Svhen rode into the courtyard in a deafening clatter of horse hooves. “Lions…in the northern meadow. We can’t hold them off.”

My chest constricted. Kat was out there with them.

“Where?”

I turned to find Wren had come to the stable door and was already leading her horse out into the open. I knew I would lose valuable time just in running for my bow and quiver; so, when Svhen opened his mouth to question her presence, I didn’t wait for him to start. “Tell her, Svhen, and then wait for me,” I ordered, already ducking into the stable for my weapons. Thankfully, Svhen obeyed.

Chapter II of Wren Romany's tale is up and read for reading. Enjoy!

on the run

2007-08-21T19:14:00.000-07:00

Adrenaline carried her as far as the village and abruptly failed to hold her up. Mirian stumbled and nearly fell in the doorway of an inn. The streets were busy and no one paid her much mind, but she could hear hoofbeats―riders coming―Borden’s men tracking her down. She pulled her shawl over her head, low so that she sat almost cowled as her eyes searched the street for danger.

They were there. Riders, three of them. Whether they were mercenaries or no she couldn’t tell, but she forced her eyes down until their shadows fell across her. They stopped.

* * *

Chapter Twenty-Three of Taerith has been posted. Come, read, comment.

winter's end

2007-08-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

“Please, Mirian,” one of the servants said. “Mistress Grey’s orders...”

“Let go of me!” Mirian insisted. She tore herself away from them. She rushed up the stairs, knees nearly buckling, tripping herself. Terror drove her, grew with every breath she took. She nearly collided with one of the serving women, who was carrying an armload of rags from the landing to Lilia’s room. The door stood slightly ajar.

A baby was crying.

* * *

Chapter Twenty-Two of Taerith is up. Read, comment. Many thanks :).

Continuing the saga...

2007-08-10T14:48:00.000-07:00

Aquila has found herself in turmoil over her father-in-laws mysterious appearance. To find out what happens, read chapter 9!

things are changing

2007-08-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

They rode down the wide street of Esktown. So close to home, now, and the people were gaunt—even worse than they had been in the north, for Annar’s taxes had struck harder here—and they watched the returning warriors with hunger in their eyes.

Five men stood in the road, arms folded. Borden reigned in his horse and regarded them, frowning.

Jonas rode to his side and drew his sword.

“Will you bow before your prince?” he asked.

“No,” said the biggest of the men. Borden reached for his sword without a word. Before his fingers could tighten on the hilt, the man dropped to one knee in the snow-packed earth.

“But I will bow before my king.” The man raised his eyes and his hands together. “Yours, Lord Borden, as far as you will take us.”

* * *

Chapter Twenty-One of Taerith has been posted. Thank you in advance for your comments, and of course for your readership!

Attention Taerith readers!

2007-08-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

Readers of Taerith may be interested to know that I'll be publishing a novel of mine within the month, both as a free ebook and as a "real" book for purchase. It's called Worlds Unseen and is the first of a fantasy trilogy.

I'm using a few back pages in the book to promote other work, including our Romany Epistles. One whole page will be devoted to Taerith and makes use of many of your quotes. I've posted them here, so have a look!

reckoning

2007-08-03T07:22:00.001-07:00

The old giant threw his torch into the fire pit, and it blazed to life, flames licking up around the iron bars and blackening the stone—not for the first time, nor for the last, under the waning moon. The light of the ancient altar drew Taerith’s eyes away from the sky, and suddenly he found himself cut loose. He stretched his arms and fingers in wonderment as the crowd around him began to pick up a new strain in their chant—a high, keening song, frightening and frightened.

He knew—he felt—that he was about to die. It was a death song they sang. He had no weapon, nothing with which to face it, and so he turned to meet death wherever it would come.

But something else came instead.

* * *

Chapter 20 of Taerith has been posted. As always, I live for your comments. Thank you!

Finally!

2007-08-03T07:07:00.001-07:00

At last, a new chapter of Daelia is up for commenting! Sorry it has taken me so long to finish it; it's not very long and far from perfect. Please read Chapter 13 and make lots of comments :)

desperate attempts notwithstanding...

2007-08-02T20:10:00.001-07:00

...one can't always post chapters on time. My apologies for the lateness of Taerith Chapter 20--if it isn't up by tomorrow, you may throw things.

Chapter VIII

2007-08-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

“How could you have been expecting me?”

Jayr turned back towards him and met his eyes with a penetrating gaze.

“What do you know about prophecy?”

“Nothing more then old wives’ tales.”

Jayr stared into his eyes deeply for a moment longer before turning away.

“Then, I think, perhaps those questions should remain unanswered.”

_______________________________

Chapter Eight of Arnan is up. Rough, but there. Come, stay a while, drink a cup of tea- just make sure to let me know what you think.

Chapter XXIV

2007-07-29T04:43:00.000-07:00

Silence fell. Zoe watched Brysa closely, wondering what she would do. Brysa’s hands fluttered at her sides convulsively. The princess’s face grew whiter and whiter. Zoe wondered what was wrong—and then realized Brysa was panicking.

Zoe stepped forward. “Stay where you are,” she said in a half-commanding, half-calming voice. Hardly knowing what she was doing, she strode to the door and nudged Rebekka out of the way. She peered through the crack in the door. Sure enough, Jaquin and a couple of bodyguards stood there. “Princess Alustate is unavailable,” Zoe told the prince bluntly. “Did you not hear she is feeling unwell?”

Jaquin’s face twisted with ill-humor. “I’m not in the mood for jesting, wench. Move aside.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm not sure I really like this chapter, so please come and let me know what YOU think. Thanks!

battle

2007-07-25T20:58:00.000-07:00

Taerith jumped away from the swing of the tattooed man’s sword, seeing as he did so that others were closing in around him. Kardas’s cry split the air, but he too was hard pressed.

Around them still, the darkness raged.

* * *

And Chapter 19 of Taerith is up :). Chapters should be coming once a week from now on, so keep up!

prophecies

2007-07-18T09:05:00.001-07:00

The last tongue of fire sank into the kindling and burned itself out. A few glowing embers were all that still lit the gloom of the fading day. The men seemed to wane in the shadows even as they faced one another.

“I don’t know what to do now,” Kardas said. “I do not wish to carry out my orders.”

“Perhaps,” Joachim said, smiling again, “I should spare you the agony of decision.”

* * *

Chapter 18 of Taerith hath been posted. Read, comment, and I thank you.

An Toan

2007-07-17T22:48:00.000-07:00

Chapter Seven of Arnan is finally posted!

Come, Read, Comment... Waiting to hear what you think of it!

aftermath

2007-07-11T08:51:00.001-07:00

Chapter Seventeen of Taerith is up. Thanks in advance for your comments ;).

Uncertainty

2007-07-10T19:08:00.000-07:00

"Am I doing the right thing? What is he doing now? Does he know that I have left or is he still gone? Could he be dead by unforeseen circumstances and I am out here running for nothing? Is he hurt and alone somewhere? Does he still love me? Did he find some other woman who could give her love to him and did he totally take me out of the picture? Do I want out of the picture?"

Chapter 8 is up on Aquila!