I'm finally back to writing full-time and making good progress on the next book (number 6, can you believe it?). This one is a bit of a departure from the original series, but still set in the same universe with at least a couple of returning characters. The working title of the new novel is "Dryden: Flamecaller." Although it's still science fiction (and features some of the same tech from the original series), the new story line has elements that cross over into the fantasy and even a bit into the LitRPG genres.
I don't want to give too much away just yet, but the new novel explores what happens when remnants of the Pelaran AI take an entirely new approach to their cultivation program -- this time on a pre-industrial world. I've always been fascinated by the idea of anachronistic technology and its disruptive effects. And, as luck would have it, the Pelaran AI's cultivation program provides us with limitless opportunities for precisely those kinds of stories. So I hope you'll come along for the journey!
Please keep an eye on my "Updates" page to stay up to date on my progress.
Also can’t wait to read it! The TFC Saga is one of the very few series that I re-read on a somewhat regular basis. I love both the space sci-fi and litrpg genres, and I can’t wait to see what you do with it.
Thank you very much, Josh! In my mind, there is no greater compliment to an author than to have readers who enjoy their work enough to read them more than once. I don’t mind telling you that the only books I have ever “re-read” are from authors like Tolkien, O’Brian, and Clancy. All three of these men were clearly FAR better authors than I’ll ever be, but it’s still encouraging to know that I’m at least managing to entertain … which I’m sure was their goal as well.
The LitRPG genre still strikes me as a little strange. When I read several of Aleron Kong’s novels last year, I was surprised how well I liked them. My new novel has a few of those elements — enough where I’ll try to get it included in the LitRPG category on Amazon at least — but it’s still predominantly military science fiction. You’ll have to let me know whether you think it added to the story. Hope you enjoy it!
Can’t wait to read it. Currently re-reading the series from the beginning. Yes it’s that good
Thank you, Jeffrey! I’m at about the halfway point writing and currently working with my cover artist, Ivo Brankovikj, on the new cover. I’ll provide more updates as I get closer to finishing. Hope you enjoy it!