It has been quite a rollercoaster since I first struck upon the idea of the half-demon which would become known as N'yotsu. Thanks in no small part to large chunks of encouragement, chiding and gentle home truths from @dlmackenzie I have gone from a kernel of an idea to the first draft which sits before you. In the process I have learnt a lot about the process of writing a novel-length piece of work which actually hangs together as a readable story -- something which I had only half-managed in the past.
But what next?
Well, at time of writing we (myself and @FictivityPress) are rushing to the finish line of an Indiegogo campaign (http://igg.me/at/the-infernal-aether/x/6432405) to help fund the editing and finishing which will turn this rough draft into a professionally published novel. Those who contribute to the campaign are basically pre-ordering the novel (which will be delivered to each of them in a nice shiny package in the next few months) as well as benefiting from some pretty cool additional perks into the bargain, not to mention earning my undying gratitude!!
The wonderful John Harten is on board as editor and has already hit me with his suggestions which, combined with the comments I've received from all you amazing readers, are shaping the final edit -- I'm motoring through these right now. There are some pretty big changes between what you've read here and what will be the final version, including some noteable tweaks to the main characters to sharpen up the action, make the reader care more and hopefully keep you all on the edge of your seats! I'm posting updates on the Indiegogo campaign page as I go along (http://igg.me/at/the-infernal-aether/x/6432405) - it's free to check them out, but while you're there if you fancy investing in a book then please do feel free...! ;)
Whilst I'm hard at work on the redraft and final edit, I also have half an eye on our next adventures into that confounded Aether. There are plenty of threads to tie up before our heroes can sit back and relax. So rest assured -- Augustus, N'yotsu, Maxwell and, of course, Kate will return. Watch this space.
Finally, I'd like to say a huge "thank you" to all of you amazing people on Wattpad -- your constant advice, comments and constructive critiques have been a huge inspiration to me through the dark days of trying to hammer through some of Augustus' stickier moments. I have no doubt that, without me knowing that there are some people out there reading this, I would have spluttered to a halt months ago. So thank you - you're fantastic!
Pete Oxley
April 2014
YOU ARE READING
The Infernal Aether (First Draft)
Paranormal"In the Fifteenth Century, the Aether held the universe together. In the Nineteenth Century, it just might tear it apart." This is the first draft, posted exclusively on Wattpad. The final version, edited and funded via an Indiegogo campaign is now...
