Here Ye! Here Ye! Announcing the White Road Chronicle's Next Book Cover

 It's nearly here!

 Yes, book three of the White Road Chronicles is almost ready for release. Today, I want to give you a bit of a sneak peek at what's to come. The cover was designed by Cover to Cover Designs. I think she did a wonderful job. Please click over to her site and see some of her other works.

Click on over to the Emanate - Book Three page for a better look at the cover, the first chapter and the playlist I created while writing the story. Please leave comments and tell me what you think.

On Kingdom Towns and Meeting Halls

Alyra's first encounter of a kingdom town was in Many Rivers--

Water from the low hanging branches dripped on her, but she ignored the irritation. She couldn’t feel any more miserable anyway. Her leg hurt from the gash, her arm from the burns, and her heart broke for the people of that beautiful town. Lotari seemed unconcerned over the whole ordeal. A smile played across his usually stern face as he picked a couple of burrs off of his horse legs. 

Finally, as the heavy rain subsided, he asked, “I don’t suppose any of the bread I made you remains?”

Taken aback at his callousness, she glared at him. He’d seemed kind and caring when she was traveling alone. Did he not care for the townspeople anymore than his clan did? Alyra pulled off her pack and threw it at him. 

He caught it, brows knit in confusion for a moment before his face relaxed. “Alyra, they will be fine. Why did you not stay in the Meeting Hall like the others?”

“I didn’t want to get burned up! Why wouldn’t they flee?” Hot tears stung her eyes. “All those children...” 

“Foolish child, have you not listened to anything? The white path is safe. The white buildings are safe as well.”

She shook her head, unable to believe his words. 

He nodded in affirmation. “This is the reason I told you to make haste. The kingdom town offered you protection against the enemy...."

              Illuminated: Book One, Chapter 17.

I really wanted to paint a picture of a picturesque little town, nestled in the woods, somewhat sheltered, but still, on the edge of the enemy's territory, and prone to random attacks. When Alyra raced into the village square, she was being pursued and in danger. Yet, the town took her directly to their Meeting Hall to find shelter while they defended their homes with what weapons they had at their disposal.

The enemy caused damage. Some were hurt. At least, those who hadn't taken shelter, and those who stood on the front lines of defense.

However, Alyra did not return later to find a beaten people, but a determined community of people. Ready to rebuild better and stronger than before. That's the heart of a kingdom people.

Today, I want to talk about a few qualities that make up a thriving kingdom town.

Ready To Accommodate the Weary Traveler

All kingdom towns can be located along the King's Highway, otherwise known as the White Road. The townships vary in design, population and size. Some are new and just becoming established. If you are an adventurous type, you might wish to settle down and help build.

Others are well established, even fortified with ramparts and defenses-- especially if located in hostile lands.

Despite what type of township you find yourself in, the welcome will always be the same. If you are passing though, they will offer supplies and full-fill any needs you might have to accomplish your journey. They are all aware, that the most important thing is to help travelers reach their destination.

A Place To Learn About the Kingdom

If you do so choose to remain awhile, there is always people willing to teach you about kingdom ways. More established communities will have a library with a caretaker who knows how to find the information you need. They might be a little persnickety about how their beloved books are treated, but they are generous with sharing all they know. 

It's a given fact, that the larger the kingdom town, the more vast is their knowledge base. Not all learning come from books, you see, but from the experiences and hard-earned wisdom of those who've been down the same trail you are currently walking. It's good to be willing to sit and listen to their stories, no matter how long winded some may be.

A Place of Refuge and Healing

Every kingdom town will have a White Healing tree growing somewhere. If you are sick, weary, or wounded, find those with Healing qualities and they are always willing to help. Sometimes you'll want to stay awhile and allow your mind and body to find restoration. That's fine. Just don't forget there is still a road to be traveled and a King eagerly waiting to make your acquaintance.

Kingdom towns also provide a place of refuge and safety. When the enemy is pursuing you, call on the leaders to stand around you. Seek shelter in the Meeting Hall. Any town claiming to be of the kingdom will do everything possible to help you stand against attacks.

Not Meant To Be An Isolated Island

What kingdom towns are not meant to be, are little isolated islands, keeping to themselves and serving only their own members. If you come across a place such as this, YOU ARE NOT IN A KINGDOM TOWN.

If you have to leave your path to enter a town, then you're not in a kingdom town.
If you are not welcomed in with attentive kindness, then you're not in a kingdom town.
If you see an enemy presence, well, then you better not even bother. Just keep going and soon you'll find a more hospitable place. Trust me. Always, no matter what, stay on the path! Everything you need will be found there.

So, there you have the basic working of a kingdom town in Alburnium. More and more towns in the White Road Chronicles are to be explored within the pages.

But I encourage you, dear readers, to find your own kingdom safe-ground in your real life. They're out there. We need others to help us on our journey, no matter which direction we are traveling. If you're running toward home, seeking refuge, or undertaking a quest, these are the places and people who will help get you to where you need to go.

And who knows, maybe someday you'll find that special place to settle down and make your home.


Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:46-47


The pictures in this post all come from my Pinterest boards. Check out the White Road Chronicles board for more scenes from my books and the characters that inhibit the pages.

Blog Hop: The Mind of a Writer

I was tagged in a fun blog hop by my wonderful writer friend and romance writer, 

T. L. Gray.

Curious about what goes on inside the strange minds of a writer? Well here’s a glimpse:

What am I working on?

At the moment, I have two projects that split my day.

I'm editing the third book in the White Road Chronicle series titled Emanate. This story continues on the next day where Luminosity left off.

Alyra is preparing to travel to Drakensburg to rally the dragons. With her is Ethan, her brother, and Riyah, her guardian instructor. And, possibly Tarek, who has more to him than anyone realizes, including himself. But you'll have to read and see how Alyra and Tarek's friendship (?) plays out.

Katrina the Curian is still in Denovo, trying work out the mystery of what happened to her people who escaped the Dark Lord's attack. But Katrina has to fight a battle her people have struggled against for ages and the very one that brought them down in the first place. But you'll have to read to find out what that is, too. lol.

Jerin finally gets to return home, but not in the manner he'd hoped. And when he gets there, boy is he in for a surprise. And yes... you'll have to read it to see.

Finally, as the centaurs work to complete their task, they risk having it all brought down on their heads by a self-proclaimed dwarf king of Wilderland. The Meeting Hall holds a promise of protection and sanctuary. They will find out if they've progressed enough for it to stand to it's full potential.

So yeah, that's one of the projects I'm working on. The other one is a prequel to The White Road Chronicles. A series of three novellas from Tarek's point of view that I'm calling White Road Tales. (Look for a cover reveal and more information soon)

Captured, the first in this series, is completed and with my editing readers. Here you'll find out how Tarek ended up in Racah and met Princess (Alyra) in the first place. And, you'll learn there's more to their friendship than Alyra remembers.

The second book-which I'm writing now- Will either be called Snatched or Stolen. (I kinda like the first).  Will dive further into their relationship and show one of the means Darnel uses to control his subjects. I'm enjoying this one.

The third book, which I'm not sure what to call it yet, is mostly written and will end up tying into Book One: Illuminated.

I've been busy, busy, busy which is why I've not written a lot on my blogs lately.

How does my work differ from others in its genre?

I certainly don't write traditional fantasy. Yes, it's set in a medieval kind of time-frame. But Alburnium is an alternate world. That should be obvious. I never enjoyed how bogged down some fantasy books tend to be, so I tried to keep things light, with just a bit of modern-osity. (That can be a word if I want it to. lol)

I enjoy books that leave the reader with a take-a-way nugget. Kate DiCamillo and her The Tale of Despereaux, and Because of Winn Dixie left me different than when I opened the first page.  So did stories from Hannah Hurnard, C.S. Lewis and so many others. And all along, I've wanted to write stories that offered a bit of take-away for the readers. 

So, I'm not entirely certain how my books differ. There's so many wonderful tales out there that make mine look like a scrawny weed. Readers have said my story reminds them of a modern Pilgrims Progress. Others say it has a Narnia kind of flavor. One review said Illuminated was The Wizard of Oz meets Narnia. I loved that.

Another one of my favorite kinds of reads are journey books. That's simply how I see life. A journey to find yourself which can turn into a quest to make a difference once you begin to see the value in who God created you to be.

God doesn't do shabby. Everything he creates is done with excellence and painstaking great detail. Just look around. Really look at a tree and try to find two leaves that are exactly alike. I don't think you can. Look at the delicate build of a flower, the vibrant colors and designs. Or simply look up at the sky. Is there many times during the day where you're not left in awe? The deep blue, the wistful clouds, the colorful show of sunrise and sunset, the power behind a storm....

And he created us! With the same thoughtfulness.

This is what I want to convey when I write. At least, I'm trying.  But I'm getting off topic. LOL.
Back to the questions. (Sorry. =D)

Why do I write what I do?

Think I answered this one in the previous question. I write because written words give me a voice. I can be a naturally quiet person. Until I really get to know you, I'm shy when you first meet me. I DO NOT enjoy speaking in front of people.

However, I have things I wish to say. I'm a thinker. A ponderer. I'm always looking at life from different angles. And writing lets me shine.

I'm including this quote from Mandela because it sums up how I feel about being a writer. It's my greatest passion. Has been since I was a child. If I had a medallion like those in Aloblase, I'm sure it would have a quill and paper on it. Stories help life make sense. You can lecture me and it'll go in one ear and out the other. But tell me a story... and it's a part of me forever.

So, basically, that's why.

How does my writing process work?

I'm still working on a "process." Basically, it means sitting down and just doing it. It means I've had to bow out of extra activities. Say "no" even to doing really great things. At least for now. I'm building a foundation and that's hard work.

I get up in the morning and dress as if I'll be going somewhere that day. I spend quite time with Father God, asking for direction and talking about my stories and what needs to happen next. Then I check out what other friends are doing through emails and social network sites. (This is still my stumbling block and something I'm working on gaining better control on.

Then I get to work. I have a word count goal I set for new works. And an editing goal for revisions. I make lists... but... you know. I'm still in the process of learning how to be... (ugh) disciplined.

Maybe someday. Maybe.

But that's it in a nutshell.  I have no qualms admitting I'm a strange one. lol. But I'm who God created me to be and I'm using the talents he's given me to get though this life. So I'm good with that!



 If you enjoy reading about how this crazy world of fiction works, please take a moment and hop on over to Julie Marx's site and PacJac Carroll's blog later this week! You won’t be disappointed. Their current writing projects are AWESOME.

I'm SICK of Winter!

Seriously.
Aren't you?

I live in the south, and griping about the cold is like griping about having two scoops of ice cream when you only wanted one. Come July, I'll be lamenting the heat. Really.

But this winter... and I know my friends in the North will give me an AMEN... has dragged, and dragged, and dragged on.

With Spring arriving next week, I wanted to celebrate in a writerly way. So, to start, I've put Luminosity on sale this weekend for $.99 cents.

Be on the lookout for my Count Down To Spring Week pictures:
 If you see them, help me out by sharing on facebook, twitter and even Pinterest.

Here's an overview of Book Two of the White Road Chronicles:

Alburnium is at war.

Eighteen-year-old Alyra’s joy of being reunited with her family fades when Prince Issah sends her beloved friends away on quests across the kingdom. Allies must be gathered to stand against the dark ruler, Lord Darnel.

The reclusive dragons happen to be necessary allies. Alyra’s friendship with the young drake, Crystal, offers a slim hope of being heard by them instead of being burned.

Alyra must travel to Drakensburg with her resentful brother, Ethan, a Messenger, who doesn’t trust her, a prankster Okbold intent on honoring his debt to her, and a unseen Guardian Instructor, who must teach her how to use the Illuminate’s gift before they reach the dragons' hold.

Ethan has the words to persuade the dragons. Alyra carries the red fruit of the white tree to present as a peace offering. Until she finds Tarek, beaten and near death. She must choose between using the fruit to save the man she loves, or the kingdom she serves.

Hope you enjoy the continuing tale of Alyra and her friends.
Happy Reading. 

What's Up in Alburnium?

So glad you asked!

I've not posted because there's several things going on all at the same time. First, I've been busting my behind trying to get the first draft of Emanate done before February ended. And I did it!! YaY me.

BIG. SIGH.

So, while I complete a couple of other projects I've scheduled for March, I'm going to let Emanate sit and cool off before I delve back into it to do edits.

However, I've nearly completed the first novella that will go along with this series. The title is Captivated and it's all about how Tarek and Alyra first met. That's right, you Tarek fans will love this one. I'm excited about getting it done and out there for you. And it's been fun and enlightening getting into Tarek's head.

While I've been slaving at the keyboard, I've also set up my very own author page over at Facebook. Here's the banner. Which still needs a little work, but it's good for now. If you're on facebook, search out Jackie Castle Author Page and like me. I gave away a little surprise when I reached 100 likes and will be giving another one when I reach 200!

Another reason I've not posted much on any of my blogs is that I'm hoping to move over to a website soon. It's in the works!

I've declared 2014 to be my year to get organized, start treating my writing as a business instead of a hobby, and to set up my little place on the world wild web. A more centralized place. Keeping up with three blogs is just too much!


On another note, Illuminated and Luminosity are doing well. I recently found Illuminated hanging out with some of my favorite books. I had to take a screen picture! All of these authors are favorites of mine. I was blown away. Truly.

So there you go, a quick up date. Look for Captured to be released hopefully by the end of March or early April. And Emanate will be close behind.

Happy Reading.
Oh, if you've read and liked book one or two, be sure to leave a review on Amazon, goodreads or share the book with your friends. I certainly appreciate it.

Blessings
Jackie

Scriptures for the Journey: Day Three

Scripture for the Journey

Day Three

John 10:10
I came that they may have life and have it more abundantly.
The Message: A more and better life than they ever dreamed of.

Pondering:

Imagine, God really wants us to have a better, more abundant life. that's why he sent Jesus to earth, to walk and talk with us. To show us how to live that better life.

Jesus' teachings are wise council, not hard-to-follow rules. He healed sickness and said we could do the same. Though he had nothing, he had everything. If only we'd read Jesus' teaching and apply his wisdom.

Our lives can be so much better. Even more so than we can possibly imagine.



Application:
Here's something you can do for the fun of it. If you had no limitations, what would you want to be doing in the next year? Five years? Ten years? Dream big. Don't hesitate or hold back.
Write it all down.
Now, here comes the challenge. Take this list before God. Ask him which of your dreams line up with his plan for your life? Don't fret. Give this a few days. Listen. Keep your eyes open for confirmation. Ask your friends and spiritual leaders to discuss your list with you.
I bet, in a short while, a firm goal will begin to form, a destination, blended together from your heart and God's heart. And this is exactly what you want. To line up your dreams with God's desires. Be patient and allow the process to happen. He has good plans for you. Seek him and find out what they are.

Please feel free to share this devotional, I only ask that you link back to here where you originally found it. Thank you. 

Scriptures for the Journey: Day Two

Continuing the devotional series: 

 

Scripture for the Journey

Day Two

Psalm 40:1-2
I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire;
He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.

Pondering:

How many times have I stepped off your firm path, chasing rabbits down obscure trails, or meandering after tasty fruits? Unfortunately, the rabbits end up disappearing down dark holes. The fruit only momentarily satisfies.

Next thing I know, I've falling into a pit of despair and self-pity, caught in the muck of a pointless life. All the paths I follow wander in pointless circles. Each day passes as the last, with nothing accomplished. I look back over my wandering life with dissatisfaction.

However, in these dark moments, I can call out to you. You will pull me free. You will wash away the muck I've made of my life and set me back on the right paths. The rocky path of salvation.



Application:
One way to avoid pitfalls and detours is to establish life goals. Both long term and short term goals. Though we need to trust God to direct our steps, we need to have a basic road map of where we want to go.
This is something that should be done over a period of a few days. Be prayerful about this, seeking God for direction and wisdom. Make a list of your heart's desires. Don't listen to any negative or rational thinking. For the moment, simply write down what you wish to do. Then the list you create can be whittled down into manageable steps.
Some things you desire to do might seem too big. These can be long term goals that you can try for later. Think about what steps you'd need to take to achieve that goal, and write them down as well. This will be the direction you take to reach that big goal. Along the way, you'll want to manage smaller, more easily attainable goals. The key is to keep it simple, keep your eyes on God, and keep focused on your destination.

Please feel free to share, I only ask that you leave a link back to here where you originally found this post. Thank you.