I know you're waiting. I'm working to get Blood Queen finished. I promise. And as soon as I feel comfortable giving a date in December for its release, you'll be the first to know. What's the hold up, you ask? Well, Blood Queen, when it was originally written, was filled with characters you haven't met before. They were all members of the Saa Thalarr, and without prior introductions, those characters would only be confusing. So, I am going through and weeding out what I can so the story will (hopefully) flow smoother for everyone. There are still a few I left in, because they're important. All I can say right now is: I love the Falchani twins.
All my best,
Connie
Thanks for the glimpse. I love that you have so many characters but it does get confusing at times. I try to refer back if I forget a name which I always do in "real" life. Maybe a cast of characters in the beginning of one of the books. I mean it's not as if you have enough to do. Just kidding.
ReplyDeleteHope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Hi, Dolly!
ReplyDeleteThanks--and happy Thanksgiving!
Connie
I love your Blood Destiny series. I just finished reading all the books out so far and can't wait for Blood Queen. I really like how you wrote in both first and third person allowing us a glimpse at how some of the other characters feel about things as well as what is going on that they keep from Lissa. Or try to anyway! How many books do you have planned for this series? Is something irreversible going to happen to Lissa as it was implied in the last book? Will she take on more lovers than Gavin and Kifirin as the other Queens of the past did?
ReplyDeleteThanks, DaniM611!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you like the books, and the switch between first and third person--I worried over breaking that rule, but felt I couldn't tell the story better in only one or the other. So I went with both :) I originally wrote 9 books in the Blood Destiny series, and I will probably decide soon whether to publish the last three. As far as Lissa taking on more lovers, well, we'll wait and see. Thank you so much for posting, and have a wonderful day!
Connie
Like the teaser on Blood Queen. Will Lissa eventually return to Earth to stay?
ReplyDeleteForgot to add" please go for nine books and do not leave us unfulfilled at six books.
ReplyDeleteHi, Pony :)
ReplyDeleteI can't give an answer to your first question. You'll see why in Blood Queen. And I had a discussion with my editor last night--he came over for turkey dinner. He says yes--publish all nine, so it's looking better on that quarter. I may space the books a little farther apart next year, though.
It was great hearing from you. Hope your day is a happy one!
Connie
Oh please please don't space the last 3 books farther apart. It's already excrusiating as it is waiting for book 6. Have some pity on those who caught your series early and are biting our nails waiting for the next part of the story. At least have some pity for my poor nails 8-).
ReplyDeleteHi, May!
ReplyDeleteThe reason I may space the books out a little more next year is that six books in six months has been exhausting, and I've written very little new material during that time. I'll work out a schedule for next year soon--one we can all live with, I hope :) So sorry for your nails--I know what that feels like. Thanks for posting and have an awesome day!
Connie
I've absolutely loved your series, and I am eagerly awaiting Blood Queen's release. Its fantastic and I am recommending it to everyone. But I would like to say a huge thank you for the time you've put in to get your books published so fast. Its pretty amazing. Do you still believe you will have Blood Queen out around December 15?
ReplyDeleteHi, Rob-M :)
ReplyDeleteThings are certainly looking better for a December 15th release. Revisions are done and a first editing pass is complete. There's still a lot to do, but I am optimistic that I'll hit the release date.
I'm really glad you like the books--thank you! Hope your day is a happy one--
Connie
Hi Connie,
ReplyDeleteI am amazed that you have time to respond to everyone and like them I am grateful you have pushed so hard on the series. I just want to say thank for staying in touch with your fans and writing a fantastic series. I look forward to you writing more on Lissa and any of the other characters you care to tell their stories to us/ for us not sure here. Take care Lisa
Thanks, Lisa!
ReplyDeleteI'm happy with the way Blood Queen is coming along, so it shouldn't be long now. And I enjoy hearing from readers--your notes are bright spots in my day :)
Thanks for writing--it was great hearing from you!
Connie
Hi Connie,
ReplyDeleteI was just wondering if Gabron would be making an appearance in Blood Queen. He quickly became one of my favorite characters even though he wasn't as involved as some of the others. I probably like him because so far he hasn't treated Lissa badly in some way. Then again Kifirin did say that he would rule by her side:) I like Kifirin a lot too but it seemed like he was trying to distance himself from her in the latest book. Then you teased all of us with that little meeting between him and Griffin. I hope the implied outcome for Lissa changes throughout the story so that the future they hint at is wrong:(
So glad to hear that you are going ahead with the other three books. I can't wait to see where Lissa's adventure takes her next! I've recommended your books to all my friends that read this genre.
Hi,DaniM611 :)
ReplyDeleteI can't answer the question without spoilers, but you'll see for yourself in Blood Queen. Only today I took a peek at Blood Rebellion (#7) while my editor/proofreader is working on Blood Queen. I'll have line edits soon, and there's work to be done on the last three, but it's do-able, I think. Thanks for recommending the books to your friends--that is awesome!
Connie
Late Thanksgiving night, my family and I were recovering from the Turkey Gorge-fest. Everyone was in bed but I wasn't quite ready to sleep yet. I turned to my husband.
ReplyDelete"Okay, I give in. I'll use your Kindle. Got anything on there I'll like?"
"Um...dunno. I think I've got a few books of a series. 'Blood Something'. Vampires. Haven't read them yet."
"Vampires are a plus.... Eh, I'll give it a shot..."
As of Sunday evening, I'd read them all. Downloaded and devoured. Love the characters, adore your writing style, and positively thrilled that there will be more coming!
~ Megan
Thanks, Megan! I'm glad you enjoyed them :D
ReplyDeleteConnie
Did you see that Blood Royal is #15 on Amazon eBooks rated 4stars and above (or have someone point it out to you)?
ReplyDeleteAnd that the others are all in the top 30?
ReplyDeleteThanks for the heads up, Mary! I had no idea. I'm blushing :)
ReplyDeleteConnie
Ever since I found your blog I have been reading back over your past posts. Your first post was about how you were reading everything about self publishing in preparation for blood wager. I was wondering how you found actually going through the self publishing process. Did you have any problems while trying to get your books out?
ReplyDeleteHi, Rob-M :)
ReplyDeleteI still don't know a lot about self-publishing. I've been very, very lucky, so far. Back when I first published Blood Wager, I was giving copies away. I set aside a budget for that, with the hope of gaining reviews from the giveaways.
Most of the successful indie authors say that self-published authors were more successful if they had multiple books out. Well, I'd planned to publish six by the end of the year and that advice has certainly proven true.
It was slow (and sometimes painful) going at the start (throw in anxiety attacks and days with no sales). I was lucky enough to have two great book bloggers review Blood Wager on their sites, and I paid for advertising on two blogs (it's cheap and definitely worth it). Just a warning--some Bloggers won't consider offering advertising space to an indie author--we're not legitimate authors in their eyes, I suppose. That's something else any indie author has to deal with--those that think indie authors should crawl back in the hole they crawled out of to begin with.
I was also lucky enough to have friends and family helping to promote my books--I've given bookmarks away, too, but I didn't find that to be as helpful as the online advertising. And everything I've read says that you need a blog, a website and be on Facebook and twitter before you ever publish. That advice is pure gold. This blog is the best thing I ever did for myself, because I get to talk to you. That is a blessing, and I can't tell you how nice it is to hear from all of you.
Sorry, didn't mean to be so long-winded on this. If you have more questions, just let me know. My experiences have certainly not touched on all the things any indie author faces regarding self-publication. If you're interested, Coral Russell has an e-book available titled The DIY Guide to Social Media Marketing and eBook Publishing. There are others available, too :)
Thanks for posting, and have a wonderful day!
Connie
I have to tell you that your books are much better put together than some publishing house e-books! I greatly enjoy your books and hope to be reading books from you in the years to come
ReplyDeleteThanks, chemgoddess245! That's wonderful news. I hope to be writing for years to come, too :)It was great hearing from you!
ReplyDeleteConnie
I love the Blood Destiny books once I started I could not stop. I look forward to #6 then 7......
ReplyDeleteI love this series, I follow you on good reads Connie and I recruite as many readers as possible so we can all be Connie suttle fans !!!! Instead of being excited for Christmas I'm excited for the next installment in your blood destiny series!!
ReplyDeleteThanks, zeb1961! Blood Queen is looking very good for a December 15th release. I should be able to say for sure in the next few days. I'm really glad you like the books and thanks for posting!
ReplyDeleteConnie
Thanks, sarah--that is awesome! Blood Queen should be coming your way very soon :)
ReplyDeleteConnie
Connie, You have caught on like wild fire. Remember when you'd only have a few posts a day. Look at you now. Most of all, thanks for interacting with your fans so much. We certainly appreciate it.
ReplyDeleteAgain, can't wait till the 15th. The 15th used to be my favorite day, as it is pay day for my hubby. Now, it's because your books come out on the 15th.
Have a great weekend.
Hi, Dolly--I was so glad to hear from you :) I think I can say with certainty that Blood Queen is on track for the December 15th release. I was worried about it because of the revisions (I'll admit now that I removed and replaced more than 16,000 words, so you see why I was worried). But I'm working on edits now, so things are looking good. And, I'm trying to remember if I stuck the darn Christmas decorations in the attic or in the storage shed :D
ReplyDeleteHope your weekend is wonderful!
Connie
Thanks for the sneak preview. It is GREATLY appreciated. I totally agree with everyone else, THANK YOU! My fingers are crossed that everything works out and the book is available on the 15th! Thanks for everything you do!!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Sarah! December 15th is looking good as a release date! Thanks for posting :)
ReplyDeleteConnie
Hi Connie! I just want to say that I love your series! I read all of the available ones in like three days! I'm officially hooked :) can't wait for the 15th! Keep up the great work, you are a fantastic writer and have an amazing imagination! :)
ReplyDelete-natasha
Thanks, Natasha! Blood Queen is coming along, and I managed to get editing done last night, in spite of one of my cats trying to help out :) I'm so glad you like the series and it was wonderful hearing from you. Have a great weekend!
ReplyDeleteConnie
Connie, since my kids are grown now, I've resorted to the "mini" tree". It was always a hassle getting hubby and my two boys to decorate. Today, I found some mini tree ornaments so I must not be the only one. Yay!
ReplyDeleteThe good thing is everything fits in one small tote that I can keep track of. All the other decorations are in the attic waiting for the boys to start their families and Christmas traditions. Hope their wives have more luck getting them to decorate than I did. lol
Have a great finish to to weekend.
HI Connie,
ReplyDeleteI discovered you and your books last week and have already read the lot! Can't wait for BLOOD QUEEN. And, as December 15 is my wedding anniversary, I know what I'll be getting for one of my presents--even if I give it to myself! LOL
Great work. Seriously. I love Lissa. Also love Merrill. And I cried for Rene.
Dolly, I am thinking very hard about the mini tree idea. That way, I don't have to rearrange furniture twice to get the tree up. In fact it's sounding better the more I think about it. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteConnie
Hi, Gracie! I'm working away to get Blood Queen ready for the 15th. I'm so glad you enjoyed the books--thank you :) Happy anniversary and thanks for posting!
ReplyDeleteConnie
Bless your heart; you haven't even had time to start on your Christmas decorations yet? You really have been hard at work haven't you. Well I know it's been said by others and I must tell you myself as well; I truly appreciate the quick releases. Even so it is still a torturous wait all the same. I have been counting down the days till the 15th. This make me fill like a child again waiting for Christmas morning to get here!!!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas and you should take time to celebrate your success!
Thanks, Mandy :)
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas to you, too! I'm planning to take a couple hours this week and buy a mini tree. The cats and I will probably have it down and up again many times before the end of the year. Blood Queen is coming along, and the days are counting down. After that, I'll put up a post about next year's releases!
Thanks for posting and have a wonderful day!
Connie
Hi Connie,
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for Blood Queen! Have used my kindle fire for a couple o weeks and I do like it with a couple of minor quibbles. I'm going to enjoy this Christmas as you and some of my other favorite authors are releasing books within 5 days of each other, Pure holiday Awesomeness!! Have a Awesome Christmas Connie!
P.S. I am kinda glad you will be releasing your books less often next year, I can finally squeeze in some gaming time(:
Here's my thoughts on the kindle fire: great-videos, games, apps. good to ok- for reading, email, magazines. poor- anything in direct sunlight, power button placement, does not have complete android app store, limited storage(i don't really care that much about storage as it can hold about 6000 books a couple of movies and some music + I have a cellphone that can tether, so it can access its cloud storage). Overall I like it as it does what I want (for now) and its at a great price.
Thanks, Dare!
ReplyDeleteUnless something untoward happens, Blood Queen will hit the December 15th deadline. YAY!!! I appreciate the update on the kindle fire, and I'm still thinking about it :)
I already have 3 writing/editing projects lined up for January, but right now I don't plan to release any more books until February. I'll post that date (and title) soon.
It was great to hear from you. Hope your Christmas is the best ever!
Connie
I have a question to ask:
ReplyDeleteIn Blood Domination when Wlodek convinced the council to move up Lissa's marriage to Gavin ( I say convinced because he is the one who presented this "option" to the council) , I believe this was nothing more than a ploy on his part to get Lissa under his complete control. He knows Merrill's compulsion is the strongest, therefore his is much more likely to keep Lissa safe if that was his only goal. Many of Saxoms turns are older than Gavin. And this is just one more decision he has made that would put Lissa's life in more danger otherwise. But he has more control over Gavin than he does Merrill. He could force Gavin to do more than he could Merrill. Otherwise there was no reason move up their marriage. Lissa is still in the 5 year confinement period and during that time the sire has just as much leeway to place compulsion. He saw a chance to take action to get her under his complete control now so that she would never have a choice of whether or not to work for him. Lissa is smart and has had to have figured this out by now or will soon. Can you tell me if this will be addressed in any way? I know Wlodek is soposed to be one of the good guys but he has done too much to harm Lissa and has not shown any remorse for any of his decisions. Sorry I didnt intend to make this so long.
Hi, Mandy.
ReplyDeleteYes, Wlodek had designs on Lissa from the beginning. And as he never expected Lissa to accept advances from Gavin (given their history), he worked to give her to Rene' instead. That obviously backfired. What I've never spelled out in the books is that Aurelius, Gavin and Rene's sire, was good friends with Wlodek, and that's how both Aurelius' living vampire children came to work for Wlodek. If Lissa went to either of them, then Wlodek was almost assured that Lissa would work for him and the Council.
Hold that thought, though. Blood Queen will throw a really big wrench into the works. I can't say how at the moment, that involves spoilers. I hope all your concerns are addressed in Blood Queen, however. Let me know if you have more questions, I'll be happy to answer as much as I can.
Thanks for writing--it was great hearing from you!
Connie
Thanks so much!!! I haven't been able to read any other books since I started this series. I've tried but cannot focus on them. I'm about to start re-reading from the beginning for the forth time. I don't think I've ever bothered to re-read anything this many times. There are many parts that I cry at every time or parts that make my heart fell as though it is going to pound out of my chest even though I know it comming! Love, love, love your books!!! Karen Marie Moning has moved down from my #1 favorite aurthor.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mandy!
ReplyDeletecs
Really enjoy reading the posts to your blog from other readers. Lets me know I am not the only one crazy about your books! They also bring up different view points I have missed. The characters really come alive and have become old friends. Have been reading for a long time and have never reread books so many times as the Blood Destiny series. So once more I say Good Job!!
ReplyDeleteAll five books still in the top 30 e-book fantasy. That is fantastic. Counting down the days again. Boy are we spoiled and will have to cut you some slack in the New Year.
ReplyDeleteCongrats!!
Hi Pony!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the vote of confidence. That means a lot :) It was great hearing from you, too. Have a wonderful evening!
Connie
Thanks, Dolly! I will probably publish something in February 2012 (once Blood Queen is released next week). I have three projects lined up to work on in January, and one of those is the rewrite of Hope and Vengeance. I really want a rough draft finished by the end of the month, so I have to get my behind in gear if that's going to happen. I'll do my best to keep everybody posted on upcoming releases. Thanks for the update--that's such a welcome surprise :D
ReplyDeleteConnie
I am deeply loving this series. I constantly go back and forth on who my favorite character (other than Lissa) is. I'm half way through "Blood Royal" and can not wait for "Blood Queen". Thank you Connie for such an amazing series. Welcome to my list of favorite Urban Fantasy authors. Kim Harrison and Chloe Neill will have a make a little room.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Bill! You just made a not-so-pleasant Monday morning so much better! Hope your day is a happy one--
ReplyDeleteConnie
I just completely love your books....i have read and reread(4 times) all 6 previous books about Lissa and her companions. just love her. now i cant wait for the next one to come out.could you please put me at ease ,for the time being, and tell me the approximate time the next one might come out. i'm dying here :D
ReplyDeletethank you for writing the best series i have ever read!!
Hello, Epp,
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you're enjoying the series!
I am hoping (cross your fingers) that I can get Blood Rebellion released around the 1st of March. Bumble, the YA novel featuring Winkler as a crossover character, will be released February 1st. I'll keep everyone advised once the date solidifies on Blood Rebellion. Hope this helps :)
Thanks for posting!
Connie
Thank You!!
Delete