Duologies, Dogs, and Deadlines: Summer at My Desk

Dear readers,

It’s the beginning of August, but in many ways, it feels like summer is just beginning for me! The release of my novel Where the Rivers Merge set the pace for late spring and early summer. Preparation for the launch of my first historical novel, interviews, and finally the launch was my consuming focus. Then the book tour began! I traveled to 26 cities and had the opportunity to meet many of my readers. I’ve missed you! Thanks to all who came to my events. Nothing beats the live, one-on-one contact. And thanks to all who bought the book, especially those who commented on my Facebook and Instagram pages. I read them all!

Now I am back home, in my office with my two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Cosmo and Luna, my cat Kumo, and my canary, and I am writing book two of the duology: The Rivers End.  A duology means the book is one long story. Thus, this is not a sequel but a continuation. I have written series books and stand-alone books. This is the first duology and with this novel I completed a beginning, a middle, and an end of my coming-of-age story. What’s different, however, is the final chapter where I plant questions in the readers’ minds. In TV we would call this a cliff hanger. I may have done my job too well! I’ve been asked everywhere— “When is Book Two coming out?”

I hear you! I will finish the book soon. But it is not up to me when the novel will be released. That’s the publisher’s call. But I am urging them to put the story out as soon as possible– the sooner the better. Whenever the book is delivered, I promise you that all your questions will be answered, and then some. It’s a whopper of a story I have coming to you!

Whether the novel is in a series, a standalone, or a duology—I always bring the story full circle. I know already the last chapter…the last scene… of The Rivers End. Remember, book one and two are one epic story.

Here’s one hint about book two… a small gift to you. The prologue of book one, Where the Rivers Merge, is set in the hollow of a great live oak tree. The end of book two, The Rivers End, will come full circle and bring you back to the hollow. Remember that when you finish reading book two.

So for now, I’m planning on enjoying the remainder of summer while following a strict writing schedule. The days will fly by and soon, the weather will turn cooler, leaves will fall, school will start for many–and I’ll have the draft done. In the meantime, check out my new Book Club Corner filled with discussion questions, recipe ideas, and more. I even offer autographed book plates for the book club’s books. I hope you will consider selecting Where the Rivers Merge for your book club. If you would like me to visit your book club discussion via Zoom, fill out the form and I’ll try to schedule as many as I can. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Happy Reading,

Mary Alice Monroe