Writing Update

What's going on in the writing world of Stephanie Summers? A lot of frustration, questioning, and finally what seems like a light at the end of the tunnel--in a nutshell.

I've been in a bit of a writing funk since I finished up Blowback, probably because I poured so much time and hard work into it that I tapped my mental resources for a bit. This isn't uncommon for me after finishing a book, but it can be a terrifying time when it happens because I tend to sit around and analyze why I can't write instead of writing. What's wrong with me? Have I used up all my good ideas? Am I completely tapped out? Will I ever be able to write another book? Luckily, I seem to be pulling myself out of all that and back into writing. My how I have missed it!

Some of you might have noticed not too long ago that I posted over on my Facebook page about how I was working on a vampire story, and while the idea is still brewing and the story has been set up, I'm sorry to say, that it's been shelved for the time being. I can't focus on it, though I feel like it will evolve into its own series soon enough. I know it sounds cliche when authors talk about how their characters speak to them and how they dictate the story, but it really is true. I can't force them if they just aren't there.

Listen, I struggled for weeks trying to write a story about Big. If you've read Blowback, you know who I mean, if you haven't read it, what are you waiting for? ;) Anyway, I had most of it plotted out in my mind, but when I sat down to write, he didn't speak to me and I'd stare at the screen. I have a possible sequel in mind for Jet, too, but I've got no focus when it comes to those stories. Same thing happened after the initial set up of the vamp story. I'm happy to report that finally, FINALLY, I have some characters talking to me, and I've plotted out four books in a new rock star series. I've decided to buckle down and get them written, with the hopes of releasing them about two months apart, starting sometime around September or October. I'll have a more concrete date once I get close to the editing phase.

I don't have a working title yet, but I can tell you a little about the band. If you've read Take Me Home, you might remember an encounter a certain Mister Ash London had with a guy pushing his music into his ears, literally, while he was on a date with Lila, the same one who opened the show later in the book that was signed to Ferrum's new record label. And if you haven't read Take Me Home, what are you waiting for? ;) Anyway, Evan Kelley, front man for Untamed Destruction (formerly known as Tiger's Den lol you'll get that reference if you read TMH) is who the first book is about. He's reeling from the loss of the band's original drummer and his best friend. I can't say much more than that at the moment, but there's a little taste for you. Three more books will follow, and as of right now, they'll be about Jameson Rhodes (guitarist), Kane King (bassist), and Jayson Stonewall (drummer)--not necessarily in that order and names at this point are subject to change. And I am happy to say that Ash London WILL be playing a somewhat sizable role at some point in the series, and he might make another cameo here or there. Hint: Anyone remember Lila's best friend, Paige? Can't say one way or the other, but she *might* just be the romantic interest for one of these guys. ;)

This shouldn't surprise anyone who has followed my books thus far because they all happen in the same universe, even The Willow Creek Vampires Series,  though I doubt Ash or Jet Flanagan are aware there are vampires lurking about. Remy is certainly aware of Ferrum through Sabine's fascination with them. The band Ferrum has been mentioned in most of my non-Ferrum books. It only made sense to me to continue the tradition. You might be wondering why I didn't write a book for the other members in Ferrum, but it's quite simple. Matty already has Tori, and Dax has never spoken to me in a romantic way. If he ever decides to settle down, I'm sure he'll let me know his story.

Anyway, just wanted to let you all know what's been going on, and how excited I am to be focusing on a new series that I hope you'll enjoy. I'll try and keep you updated along the way with some sneak peeks and teasers. Until next time, take care!