Happy May, readers! Thank you for all your support on a successful launch of Dusk Shall Weep! Interacting with readers is one of my favorite parts of being an author, and it was inspiring to see your beautiful posts and encouraging words. Seriously, how cozy are these Instagram posts from @takingbooksbystorm, @transientdrifter, and @lizchapmanwriter? Thanks for sharing, ladies!
Want more fun behind-the-scenes of Dusk Shall Weep? Head over to the Events page on my website to see my recent Cath-Lit Live interview with author, Amy J. Cattapan and my Book Banter interview with author, Tanya E. Williams. Thank you, Amy and Tanya, for the invitations!
A final thank you to those who entered the release day giveaways. Congratulations to our winners: Judy, Ariel, and Andra!
If you still need a copy of Dusk Shall Weep, signed paperbacks and eBooks are available in my online store or at many online retailers. Purchase your copy here.
Sparks are Flying
If you missed the news, Book 3 in the Larksong Legacy series is titled Sparks Fly Upward with an anticipated publication of Spring 2024. The title comes from the Biblical verses of Job 5:6-7, “For mischief comes not out of the earth, nor does trouble spring out of the ground; but man himself begets mischief as sparks fly upward.”
For a circus story set primarily in the oft corrupt 1850s San Francisco, there is definitely plenty of trouble to be had. So far, this story has proven to be grittier than the first two in the series with the characters experiencing some of their greatest challenges yet. It includes tests of faith as well as opportunities for love and forgiveness, even when one questions if they are truly deserved. And of course, there’s the usual dose of romance and happy ending; they just have a lot to go through before they get there.
The Nameless Character
Speaking of obstacles in Sparks Fly Upward, I am having a terrible time figuring out the name of its villain. I went through several names that all seemed wrong, so, instead, I decided to take it to you, the readers. Here’s a few things to know about him:
- The photo above is my current inspiration for “Circus Man.” Despite his flaws, he’s a smart dresser and has a charisma which wins him many friends.
- He runs a circus on the outskirts of San Francisco. From the outside it seems family-friendly like The Greatest Showman. Behind the scenes, it more like the movie Moulin Rouge. (Don’t worry, it’s still a clean read.)
- He has no problem using anyone and anything to get what he wants. He has a talent for seeing opportunities and capitalizing on them in the worst way.
Do you think you have the perfect name for “Circus Man”? Send me your suggestions by replying to this email. You may see your choice end up in the story and your name credited in the acknowledgments. Thank you in advance!
Released in May
Need another read? Here are the May/June 1 releases I’m excited about:
- In the Shadow of the River by Ann H. Gabhart – Mystery, suspense, history, and romance all on an 1897 River Showboat
- Who am I to Judge by Emily Hanlon – An odd church lady known as the “Purple Pest” must sleuth out the truth in this Christian murder mystery
- Cathey’s Creek Road by Hannah Hood Lucero (Releases June 1) – bluegrass and dubstep music mix in this young adult romance of healing and hope
- Through Thorny Ways by Jennifer Q. Hunt (Releases June 1) – the beginning of a 1920s family saga about reconciling with the past and finding light for the future
- Full of Wonder by B.M. Baker (Releases June 1) – a fake dating sweet contemporary romance
Did you know that reviews help both readers and authors? Even one sentence is enough, and every word greatly appreciated. Please consider leaving a rating on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and/or your favorite retailer!
Until next month, happy reading!
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
Kelsey
Due to variability in social media algorithms, the best way to receive this newsletter is through e-mail. If you were directed to this site via social media or a search engine, you can subscribe to updates by entering your e-mail on the Contact page. E-mail addresses are never sold or distributed. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Read past newsletters here: NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE.
Follow me on:
COPYRIGHT © KELSEY GIETL 2023
Purple Mask Publishing
2025 Zumbehl Rd, Ste. 33
St. Charles, MO 63303
Kelsey Gietl 