Valley of Monsters is now out to beta readers

Posted on November 2, 2013 (Subscribe to Blog)

This is just a quick post to say that Valley of Monsters (Island of Fog, Book 7) is now out to beta readers. It's a day late, but I reserve the right to allow my genius to skew any deadlines. :-)

As usual I have my "new book jitters." Is it fabulous, average, or complete rubbish? Actually, since it's the seventh book in the series, I have the additional pressure of comparisons to previous books. In an ideal world, each book would be better than the last, but the truth is that that's hard to achieve because every reader is different. With the current six books, the "favorite" is wildly varied. While some loved Roads of Madness because it was a "zombie thriller," others didn't like it as much for that same reason. And while some loved to hate Jolie in Lake of Spirits, others hated to love her.

So I expect opinions will be divided for Book 7. The question is, does it measure up overall?

Now I need to wait a couple of weeks -- or sooner for those who read really fast -- to see what work I need to do before publication at the end of November. In the meantime, I can now move on and get Quincy's Curse launched, which again, because of my genius, has missed its deadline.

Comment by BRIAN CLOPPER on Monday, November 4, 2013...

I can assuage your unease. Valley is a wonderful read! It really is a standout showcase for Hal, delving into his strengths and weaknesses as he battles his latest obstacle, his inner wolf.

Comment by MARY HAAS on Monday, November 18, 2013...

Hello Keith

We met at DragonCon last year while waiting for a ( I think ) a zombie related track. My husband John was in a wheel chair ( I only mention this by way of jogging your memory )

I just wanted to let you know how much we've loved the series. We've read every book. Our 4 year grandson asks me to read about Hal the dragon/boy constantly, and I look forward to being able to pick up the adventure again.

I hope your lovely wife and daughter are well.

Keep up the good work.
Mary and John

Comment by KEITH ROBINSON on Monday, November 18, 2013...

Wow! Hello Mary and John! Yes, we remember you well. Vanessa and Lily say hi. I often wonder if John ever made a Davros-style wheelchair as we talked about. :-)

It's great to hear from you, and I'm glad my books left an impression. I'm a terrible salesman as I try not to push them on anyone. When we were in line, I know I mentioned them, and you looked them up on your ipad/tablet then downloaded Island of Fog, and I probably said, "But don't feel obliged to read it! It's just, you know, whatever..." Hehe.

Stay in touch. Write to me at keith@unearthlytales.com whenever you get five minutes. I have your email address too, thanks.

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