‘Inteneration’, the newest installment in ‘The Empyrean Series’ was released this week! Don’t forget to get your copy (paperback or Kindle ebook) on Amazon at amazon.com/author/cmcox

(Sunset light caught in the leaves and branches)

In the days before publishing, I feel like I am drowning. On the release date, I feel that I have gotten away with something I shouldn’t have. In the days after, I feel like being still.

With each installment in ‘The Empyrean Series’, I get a little closer to finishing the project. Each time, the 14-year-old version of myself who began this work rests a bit more peacefully.

I’ve learned a lot since I began the young adult fantasy series. I have changed and grown as a writer and as a person. My life has changed drastically since the first lines of ‘Sortilege’ were penned. My writing style and goals and voice have changed.
And still, I am determined to finish it.

I have a lot of other book ideas. I have a separate trilogy started, one-fourth of a manuscript on a stand-alone book, the beginnings of an outline for yet another book, and a bunch of other shards of ideas for concepts or characters.
And still, I am determined to finish it.

Over the years, many people have asked me why I refuse to abandon the work and start something else. They have asked me why I insist on working with an old manuscript when I could probably create something ‘better’ if I started over.

I would be lying if I said I hadn’t considered it, but it never seemed appealing. I try not to be a quitter. (I still feel bad sometimes that I quit the swim team when I was 9.) More than a sense of commitment to the story, though, I love my characters. I love Tyrian and Kentsworth and Rylane and the twins, Hazeal and Bireyan. I love the world I created.

I also love the process. I love the idea of having completed this dream, of having seen this world through to the end of the series. I love everything I’ve learned, every way I’ve grown, through writing ‘The Empyrean Series’.

This series will always represent something very strong in me and in my life. It’s like a ‘coming of age’ series in which the writer is the one who matures. Each installment is a milestone.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the last 11 years – especially those who have read my work. I deeply appreciate every kind word, pat on the back, and ebook sale. I am so glad to have shared my process with all of you!