Usually, I post a blog around this time to share my plans for the next year with you. I like to let readers know my release schedule so you know what to expect.
I find I’m old enough that I just can’t do it any longer.
I’m going with my muse.
Life has a way of surprising you. Sometimes it’s new babies, sometimes it’s things like bronchitis or cancer scares. I had all three in 2018. I made it through very well, thank you, but it threw my schedule off completely.
Last year, I had planned to write the second in the Soulmate Chronicles, which features Catherine and Graham, but my muse didn’t accommodate me. Writing this one would have required much more research and time than I had to give. It was easier for me to continue writing in the Band of Cousins series. The next story was always right there on the edge of my mind, so I went with it.
Those are the things a novelist can never predict, at least for me. I don’t know which stories will call out to me, wake me up in the middle of night, or persist in my mind until I put them on paper. Right now, the story that has captured my attention is Connor’s tale. I’ve been planning his book for a long time. Bits and pieces keep popping into my mind about Alexander Grant’s last son, and I’m so excited to finally be able to share them with you, but first I must finish Gavin’s and Gregor’s stories.
Why? Because they’re all tied together.
Some writers can plan everything they’ll write for the next year, down to the plot, cover, and title for each book. Most of the time, I can’t tell you the title until I’ve written the book. And I NEVER design a cover until I’ve sent the manuscript off to my editor.
But that’s me.
So I wish I could tell you exactly what I’m releasing in 2019, but I can’t. Here’s what I can tell you to expect:
- Gavin’s story in early March (would have been February if I hadn’t had all my problems in December).
- Gregor’s story in May.
- Connor’s story (and you are going to love it—though it might put you through the emotional wringer) should be released in July.
After that, I don’t know. That will finish the Band of Cousins at 8 novels. I may go back to The Highland Clan and tell Kenzie’s story and then Jennet’s or Brigid’s. Or I may decide to write a trilogy about Alex and Maddie’s three grandsons, born on the same day at the same time (Alasdair, Elshander, and Alick). I might also get around to writing the second of the Soulmate Chronicles.
There’s always a slim chance I’ll have to step away from historical to write another Summerhill, but I don’t see that happening until 2020.
In the meantime, I am really excited to finish up The Band of Cousins. I don’t think I’ve said this yet, but Connor’s story will be epic.
I can’t wait.
Happy reading!
Keira Montclair