Today it is time for chapter 20 - Rivalry!!
Now, what do you think this chapter is all about? If you said the direct conflict between Jamuka and Temujin, you are right. However, I think little Ms. Borte is about to find herself deeply submerged in the brown stuff. Her hubby only sees one side of the conversation she has with a certain someone and blows his top. Conversation with whom, you may ask? Well, you'll have to read the book to find that out.What fun would the story be if I gave away all of the details? Ha!
Temujin is going to be named Khan and finally change his name to GENGHIS. Throughout the story, you will witness a kind of coming-of-age for the boy and in the next few chapters, you may grow to not like him very much. Everyone says power goes to your head and I think this is particularly true with mighty men in leadership positions who are not allowed to care because it would make them bananas. We have already seen Temujin's ruthless side, loving side, and self-depreciating side; what matters is which one he embraces as he gains control. Perhaps we will have God guide him a bit... I truly do not know what will happen but I am watching him morph into someone else in front of my eyes through his story and it's a bit scary. I just hope I can pull him back before he does something he will regret...
Who knows? Not me. Anyway, tomorrow I will give you an excerpt so come on back for that!!
I hope you are all having a great week - it's almost Wednesday!!
It is 9am and time to get going.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Showing posts with label Temujin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Temujin. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Monday, March 5, 2012
Chapter 19 is Almost Done!
Ahh, chapter 19! What a ride it has been!
Temujin stepped in the brown stuff big time. If he was making you angry before now, he is really going to piss you off in this chapter. He does some things that could only be justified by a madman, yet he justifies them in his head. I wanted to slap him myself.
Sometimes, Temujin just gets headstrong, won't listen to a word I say, and runs away with his emotions. He does stupid crap that puts him in precarious situations and even puts his men in danger. He is leading the story though, not me. I have to listen to him. When he wants to do something harebrained, I have to let him; to fight him would be stupid and would likely ruin the story.
Wang Khan has made an ass out of himself as well due to his son and his grand-daughter. I stick pretty close to the historical telling of events and people so if you want to know a bit about how the story progresses, here is an excellent article: Wikipedia - Genghis Khan on his life and love. I have used that and many other resources that I had access to via my college to kind of build a basic accounting from which to spin my tale. A lot of what you will read in my book is true but most of it is pure fiction - or has not been told - and just the characters are named after their historical counterparts.
Remember, I have to pretend to know these people in order to write about them and they become as real as flesh-and-blood folk for a little while.
I hope you are all enjoying this blog and the creative process being brought to life. A writer's mind is rarely quiet and I am always coming up with ideas for new books and jotting them down. Most will likely never see the light of day but keeping a record of my ideas just feels right.
A book I will suggest for anyone wanting a pull of the heartstrings:
Bill Wallace - A Dog Called Kitty
Bill is such a good writer that you simply fall in love with the little dog through both his antics, patience, and love of his boy, Ricky.
It is almost 9am. Time to get busy!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Temujin stepped in the brown stuff big time. If he was making you angry before now, he is really going to piss you off in this chapter. He does some things that could only be justified by a madman, yet he justifies them in his head. I wanted to slap him myself.
Sometimes, Temujin just gets headstrong, won't listen to a word I say, and runs away with his emotions. He does stupid crap that puts him in precarious situations and even puts his men in danger. He is leading the story though, not me. I have to listen to him. When he wants to do something harebrained, I have to let him; to fight him would be stupid and would likely ruin the story.
Wang Khan has made an ass out of himself as well due to his son and his grand-daughter. I stick pretty close to the historical telling of events and people so if you want to know a bit about how the story progresses, here is an excellent article: Wikipedia - Genghis Khan on his life and love. I have used that and many other resources that I had access to via my college to kind of build a basic accounting from which to spin my tale. A lot of what you will read in my book is true but most of it is pure fiction - or has not been told - and just the characters are named after their historical counterparts.
Remember, I have to pretend to know these people in order to write about them and they become as real as flesh-and-blood folk for a little while.
I hope you are all enjoying this blog and the creative process being brought to life. A writer's mind is rarely quiet and I am always coming up with ideas for new books and jotting them down. Most will likely never see the light of day but keeping a record of my ideas just feels right.
A book I will suggest for anyone wanting a pull of the heartstrings:
Bill Wallace - A Dog Called Kitty
Bill is such a good writer that you simply fall in love with the little dog through both his antics, patience, and love of his boy, Ricky.
It is almost 9am. Time to get busy!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Chapter 17 Excerpt!
Here is a short excerpt from Chapter 17. Temujin is dreaming about his future and speaking with God:
I laughed and agreed. I could still hear Bo’orchu guffawing when I slipped into my dreams.
I was standing on a high dais and there were people as far as I could see. They were chanting a name that I could not understand. I felt movement to my left and when I glanced over, I recognized the face of God.
He spoke, “Temujin, this is what you will control when you are done. Look well, my son, and see how powerful you are.”
I peered out over the crowds of my people and saw that they went for many kilometers in every direction.
I asked, “All of this is mine to rule?”
“Yes. You will be the mightiest Khan to ever rule in Mongolia. You will even overthrow China. All of these people will look to you for guidance and care. It is a great responsibility but I believe you can do it without a second thought.”
I was awestruck by the enormity of the task and felt the weight of my nation on my shoulders. I asked, “What if I fail?”
He chuckled and answered, “You will not fail. I chose you because you are the only one who can succeed. Beware of Jamuka; his heart has been injured by your actions and he will try to kill you, believing that you are out to kill him. Show kindness and compassion for those that are misunderstood or weaker than you and always remember that I will guide your hand.”
“I understand. I have much to accomplish. May I ask you a question?”
“You just did.”
“Yes, sir, I did. I am sorry. I will just ask the one I want the answer to. What name are they chanting below?”
“Genghis. You will be Genghis Khan. It means supreme conqueror.”
“Ah. Thank you.”
“You are welcome. Remember what I said and you will prosper.”
I woke with a smile on my face and thoughts of Jamuka in my head. It hurt that my anda was trying to kill me but I understood his motivations. My Börte was not a prize to be won but I supposed he would just try to kill me so he could take her for his own. He would be surprised when she did not want him.
And, a surprise excerpt from Chapter 18, which was completed yesterday:
I was sleeping in my tent one night when a great commotion arose not far away. I stood up so quickly, I managed to tangle myself up in the fabric and ropes and fell with a mighty crash to the ground. I cursed, slowly extracted myself from the mess, and hurried over to see what the noise was about.
I found Temuge locked in a struggle with another man that I did not recognize and hurried over to help restrain him. After we had him tied, Temuge began to ask him questions about who he was and what he was doing sneaking around the camp at night, peeking in tents.
I took a seat nearby and listened and watched; noticing that the man never took his eyes off of me and never said a word.
Finally, when Temuge was tired of talking and getting no responses, he flung himself to the ground near me and heaved a great sigh.
“He won’t talk, brother. What do I do now?”
I smiled at him and patted him on the shoulder before rising and stepping over to the man and leaning down close to his ear.
I said, “Are you working for Senggum?”
I heard a sharp intake of breath and I smiled.
“Yes, you are. I am going to ask you one time what his plot is. If you do not tell me, I will cut off your toes one-by-one until you can no longer stand.”
Again, I heard the sharp intake of breath.
“You know I will make good on my promise, don’t you? I am going to remove the rope from your mouth now and you are going to talk. Do you understand?”
He nodded.
I removed the rope and the man poured forth with a story that made my anger boil like a river of fire. He told me Senggum never intended to allow Wang Khan to make me a promise of marriage to my bastard son, that since our counsel six days prior, he had been poisoning the Khan’s mind to me, that he was sent out just after we left, by Senggum himself, to orchestrate my capture so that I may be ‘dealt with’ in whatever manner Senggum decided to deal with me, and that Jamuka had recently been to visit the Khan but was turned away and took counsel with Senggum instead.
I thanked the man, put the rope back in his mouth, gave orders for Temuge to watch the new prisoner, and took a walk to ponder the information given to me.
This is all for today. I hope you enjoy it!! 9am, off to write!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
I laughed and agreed. I could still hear Bo’orchu guffawing when I slipped into my dreams.
I was standing on a high dais and there were people as far as I could see. They were chanting a name that I could not understand. I felt movement to my left and when I glanced over, I recognized the face of God.
He spoke, “Temujin, this is what you will control when you are done. Look well, my son, and see how powerful you are.”
I peered out over the crowds of my people and saw that they went for many kilometers in every direction.
I asked, “All of this is mine to rule?”
“Yes. You will be the mightiest Khan to ever rule in Mongolia. You will even overthrow China. All of these people will look to you for guidance and care. It is a great responsibility but I believe you can do it without a second thought.”
I was awestruck by the enormity of the task and felt the weight of my nation on my shoulders. I asked, “What if I fail?”
He chuckled and answered, “You will not fail. I chose you because you are the only one who can succeed. Beware of Jamuka; his heart has been injured by your actions and he will try to kill you, believing that you are out to kill him. Show kindness and compassion for those that are misunderstood or weaker than you and always remember that I will guide your hand.”
“I understand. I have much to accomplish. May I ask you a question?”
“You just did.”
“Yes, sir, I did. I am sorry. I will just ask the one I want the answer to. What name are they chanting below?”
“Genghis. You will be Genghis Khan. It means supreme conqueror.”
“Ah. Thank you.”
“You are welcome. Remember what I said and you will prosper.”
I woke with a smile on my face and thoughts of Jamuka in my head. It hurt that my anda was trying to kill me but I understood his motivations. My Börte was not a prize to be won but I supposed he would just try to kill me so he could take her for his own. He would be surprised when she did not want him.
And, a surprise excerpt from Chapter 18, which was completed yesterday:
I was sleeping in my tent one night when a great commotion arose not far away. I stood up so quickly, I managed to tangle myself up in the fabric and ropes and fell with a mighty crash to the ground. I cursed, slowly extracted myself from the mess, and hurried over to see what the noise was about.
I found Temuge locked in a struggle with another man that I did not recognize and hurried over to help restrain him. After we had him tied, Temuge began to ask him questions about who he was and what he was doing sneaking around the camp at night, peeking in tents.
I took a seat nearby and listened and watched; noticing that the man never took his eyes off of me and never said a word.
Finally, when Temuge was tired of talking and getting no responses, he flung himself to the ground near me and heaved a great sigh.
“He won’t talk, brother. What do I do now?”
I smiled at him and patted him on the shoulder before rising and stepping over to the man and leaning down close to his ear.
I said, “Are you working for Senggum?”
I heard a sharp intake of breath and I smiled.
“Yes, you are. I am going to ask you one time what his plot is. If you do not tell me, I will cut off your toes one-by-one until you can no longer stand.”
Again, I heard the sharp intake of breath.
“You know I will make good on my promise, don’t you? I am going to remove the rope from your mouth now and you are going to talk. Do you understand?”
He nodded.
I removed the rope and the man poured forth with a story that made my anger boil like a river of fire. He told me Senggum never intended to allow Wang Khan to make me a promise of marriage to my bastard son, that since our counsel six days prior, he had been poisoning the Khan’s mind to me, that he was sent out just after we left, by Senggum himself, to orchestrate my capture so that I may be ‘dealt with’ in whatever manner Senggum decided to deal with me, and that Jamuka had recently been to visit the Khan but was turned away and took counsel with Senggum instead.
I thanked the man, put the rope back in his mouth, gave orders for Temuge to watch the new prisoner, and took a walk to ponder the information given to me.
This is all for today. I hope you enjoy it!! 9am, off to write!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Chapter 17 and a New Idea
Chapter 17 feels clunky. It has no flow because I can find little conflict. I'm sure Temujin will step in something along the way, he just hasn't yet. It's a problem when your characters lounge around and refuse to do anything interesting for a few pages. Everyone yell with me, "TEMUJIN! GET OFF YOUR BUTT, SON!"
Haha. Now that we have that out of the way...
Today my goal is 3,000 words. I am not moving my butt until those 3,000 words are on paper. That probably means chapter 17 will roll off the presses today. Good news? With 28 chapters total, there are only 11 more to go now. We are getting close to the end. I still haven't figured out what the end will be but I'm sure my characters will tell me when we come to that point. Do I follow history or allow myself a bit of creative freedom? Who knows?
I have an idea for a young reader's series and while Yassa mellows I will be working on that. I love the idea of a female protagonist; very few authors use them though. I believe that the ones who have, have done so with great success: Piers Anthony and his Mode series, Stephen King with Carrie, and, most recently, Suzanne Collins with The Hunger Games series. If you didn't fall in love with Katniss during the HG series, you either weren't reading it, or you didn't understand it. Colene, the protagonist in PA's 4 book Mode series, that began with Virtual Mode, was a tortured young lady with major character flaws that was easy to fall in love/identify with.
I don't know how many books will result from the series; I suppose it will depend on the reader reaction to the first one. If everyone hates it, I will move on. We shall see.
First, to finish Yassa!! It is now approximately 303 pages long and contains over 65 thousand words. By the time it releases, I am guessing it will be in the rough neighborhood of 500-600 pages long. What an accomplishment! I am proud just getting to 300!! Haha.
Perhaps an excerpt tomorrow...
It is 9am and time to hit the keys.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Haha. Now that we have that out of the way...
Today my goal is 3,000 words. I am not moving my butt until those 3,000 words are on paper. That probably means chapter 17 will roll off the presses today. Good news? With 28 chapters total, there are only 11 more to go now. We are getting close to the end. I still haven't figured out what the end will be but I'm sure my characters will tell me when we come to that point. Do I follow history or allow myself a bit of creative freedom? Who knows?
I have an idea for a young reader's series and while Yassa mellows I will be working on that. I love the idea of a female protagonist; very few authors use them though. I believe that the ones who have, have done so with great success: Piers Anthony and his Mode series, Stephen King with Carrie, and, most recently, Suzanne Collins with The Hunger Games series. If you didn't fall in love with Katniss during the HG series, you either weren't reading it, or you didn't understand it. Colene, the protagonist in PA's 4 book Mode series, that began with Virtual Mode, was a tortured young lady with major character flaws that was easy to fall in love/identify with.
I don't know how many books will result from the series; I suppose it will depend on the reader reaction to the first one. If everyone hates it, I will move on. We shall see.
First, to finish Yassa!! It is now approximately 303 pages long and contains over 65 thousand words. By the time it releases, I am guessing it will be in the rough neighborhood of 500-600 pages long. What an accomplishment! I am proud just getting to 300!! Haha.
Perhaps an excerpt tomorrow...
It is 9am and time to hit the keys.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Monday, February 27, 2012
A New Week = A New Perspective
Hello and happy Monday!
Every great once in a while, you read something that makes you think perhaps you aren't weird after all - mine is On Writing - A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King. I have always wondered at my love of books and writing but I read that it is precisely that love that makes me a writer. You do not have to publish a book or a story to be a writer, you just have to write. I have been writing since I was 4 years old. I guess that makes me an old hand, eh?
I have also been a reader from that age. I have read more books in my lifetime so far than most people could ever dream of reading. I used to fall asleep with a book in my hand/on my head every night when I was younger. I love the written word and the only thing that tops that love is what I feel for the man in my life - the most passionate, deepest love I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing - and my kids. It can be detrimental when I lose myself in the pages of a well written story because nothing gets done if it's a good one. I know the readers out there can sympathize.
I write what I know from what I have learned through my life. In my book, Yassa, there are few details about the actual countryside of Mongolia because I have never been there and seen it with my own eyes. It is difficult to pull great description of a place if you have no firsthand knowledge of it. But, my book is not about Mongolia. My book is about a man, a woman, and a people. These are things I do know. I find my story easy to tell because I have experienced the all encompassing feelings that the man and woman have for one another. Finally, I can tell a tale of passionate love that crosses all boundaries and overcomes any obstacle thrown in its path because I have that in my life. We write what we know because we can tell the truth.
I owe every word I put on the page to the love I have had the great pleasure of experiencing through my Babydoll. He is there to encourage me, push me forward, and praise me. He has loved me through some tough things in my life and has remained by my side. He never tires of my needy ways, either. I could not do it without him.
I am off to write some more - this time my book. If you are a writer, WRITE ON! If you are a reader, may you find that new story that takes you into the pages and refuses to let you go.
Until next time,
Jo
Every great once in a while, you read something that makes you think perhaps you aren't weird after all - mine is On Writing - A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King. I have always wondered at my love of books and writing but I read that it is precisely that love that makes me a writer. You do not have to publish a book or a story to be a writer, you just have to write. I have been writing since I was 4 years old. I guess that makes me an old hand, eh?
I have also been a reader from that age. I have read more books in my lifetime so far than most people could ever dream of reading. I used to fall asleep with a book in my hand/on my head every night when I was younger. I love the written word and the only thing that tops that love is what I feel for the man in my life - the most passionate, deepest love I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing - and my kids. It can be detrimental when I lose myself in the pages of a well written story because nothing gets done if it's a good one. I know the readers out there can sympathize.
I write what I know from what I have learned through my life. In my book, Yassa, there are few details about the actual countryside of Mongolia because I have never been there and seen it with my own eyes. It is difficult to pull great description of a place if you have no firsthand knowledge of it. But, my book is not about Mongolia. My book is about a man, a woman, and a people. These are things I do know. I find my story easy to tell because I have experienced the all encompassing feelings that the man and woman have for one another. Finally, I can tell a tale of passionate love that crosses all boundaries and overcomes any obstacle thrown in its path because I have that in my life. We write what we know because we can tell the truth.
I owe every word I put on the page to the love I have had the great pleasure of experiencing through my Babydoll. He is there to encourage me, push me forward, and praise me. He has loved me through some tough things in my life and has remained by my side. He never tires of my needy ways, either. I could not do it without him.
I am off to write some more - this time my book. If you are a writer, WRITE ON! If you are a reader, may you find that new story that takes you into the pages and refuses to let you go.
Until next time,
Jo
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Motivation
For all you writers out there, what is your motivation for writing a book? Is it fame? fortune? the need to tell your story? the need to tell someone else's story? I am curious what makes you all tick.
For me, it is the telling of a story that may have happened inside a story we all know. Everyone knows that Genghis Khan took over most of Eurasia and everyone knows he had a wife, a daughter, and four sons. Everyone knows that Jamuka was his best friend until something happened that made him leave Genghis and begin to conquer on his own in direct competition of his friend. My brain starts ticking when I hear stories like that. I want to know why they had a falling out of that magnitude. Don't you?
Over the span of my life, when I have heard stories other people tell, I have always filled in the gaps with tales of knights, dragons, love, and betrayal. I used to sit in the mall and write people a new story in my head. I have gone through many learning processes in my life to learn other skills because writing was never deemed useful; like reading. My father used to say, "Put down that book and do something with yourself. You are wasting your time on nonsense." Reading and writing were considered bad form and he had the idea that reading the encyclopedia was the only way to learn.
B.S.
Things I have learned from books:
1. How to be a better person
2. How to cook things I could never have done without the instruction
3. Historical facts
4. Human interaction
5. How other people tick
6. How to be comfortable in my own skin
7. Other people have it worse sometimes
8. How to be patient and understanding
9. How to forgive and overlook
10. How to use my imagination to feel, be, and see what the characters feel, are, and see
and so much more!
I would like to send a huge shout out to the following authors as a thank you for taking the time to sit down and tell me a story:
J.K. Rowling (violence is not always necessary)
Stephanie Meyer (true love is all encompassing and can survive anything)
C.S. Lewis (be good down inside)
J.R.R. Tolkien (your friends that are true will help you through anything)
Piers Anthony (being different is okay)
Anne Rice (be comfortable with yourself)
Alice Borchardt (history can be interesting)
Christoper Paolini (always believe the impossible)
Robin Cook (hospitals are crooked)
Fern Michaels (women are strong)
Suzanne Collins (fight like every day is your last because it could very well be)
Stephen King (reality in writing can make you feel)
The Brothers Grimm (fairytales give hope and a moral lesson)
Shakespeare (it is not the language but how you use it)
Every author that has ever spent their time writing a story (perseverance pays off)
Well, that's it for today folks, off to write some more!! I hope this post got you thinking!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
For me, it is the telling of a story that may have happened inside a story we all know. Everyone knows that Genghis Khan took over most of Eurasia and everyone knows he had a wife, a daughter, and four sons. Everyone knows that Jamuka was his best friend until something happened that made him leave Genghis and begin to conquer on his own in direct competition of his friend. My brain starts ticking when I hear stories like that. I want to know why they had a falling out of that magnitude. Don't you?
Over the span of my life, when I have heard stories other people tell, I have always filled in the gaps with tales of knights, dragons, love, and betrayal. I used to sit in the mall and write people a new story in my head. I have gone through many learning processes in my life to learn other skills because writing was never deemed useful; like reading. My father used to say, "Put down that book and do something with yourself. You are wasting your time on nonsense." Reading and writing were considered bad form and he had the idea that reading the encyclopedia was the only way to learn.
B.S.
Things I have learned from books:
1. How to be a better person
2. How to cook things I could never have done without the instruction
3. Historical facts
4. Human interaction
5. How other people tick
6. How to be comfortable in my own skin
7. Other people have it worse sometimes
8. How to be patient and understanding
9. How to forgive and overlook
10. How to use my imagination to feel, be, and see what the characters feel, are, and see
and so much more!
I would like to send a huge shout out to the following authors as a thank you for taking the time to sit down and tell me a story:
J.K. Rowling (violence is not always necessary)
Stephanie Meyer (true love is all encompassing and can survive anything)
C.S. Lewis (be good down inside)
J.R.R. Tolkien (your friends that are true will help you through anything)
Piers Anthony (being different is okay)
Anne Rice (be comfortable with yourself)
Alice Borchardt (history can be interesting)
Christoper Paolini (always believe the impossible)
Robin Cook (hospitals are crooked)
Fern Michaels (women are strong)
Suzanne Collins (fight like every day is your last because it could very well be)
Stephen King (reality in writing can make you feel)
The Brothers Grimm (fairytales give hope and a moral lesson)
Shakespeare (it is not the language but how you use it)
Every author that has ever spent their time writing a story (perseverance pays off)
Well, that's it for today folks, off to write some more!! I hope this post got you thinking!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Chapter 16 excerpt!
Temujin has spoken to God again in chapter 16 but I am not posting that excerpt. I know, awwwwwww. Haha! Instead, read about his brother, Quasar, and his brother's wife...
After my things were packed onto Graêl, I kissed my wife, hugged my children, and mounted. Jelme and Bo’orchu were mounting as well but Quasar was nowhere to be seen. We waited a few minutes before dismounting and heading for his yurt. When we approached, we heard Quasar arguing with his wife.
“You are a piece of dung! Why must you leave me in this condition to go follow after your little brother on some conquest that you have no stake in?”
“Wife, the Tatars murdered our father and I owe them a payback just as much as Temujin does. We are brothers. Besides, this could very well make our fortunes. I will return before long, do not worry your head.”
We heard weeping and then something breaking before the shrill voice of Quasar’s wife again filled the air. “Then go! If you have not returned by the time this baby comes, I will kill you in your sleep!”
Quasar stumbled through the door and was shocked to see all of us standing there. He blushed and said, “Yes. Baby. We must go, NOW.”
We all took a moment to clap him on the back and issue congratulations. We took one moment too long and Quasar’s wife came through the door behind him, brandishing a weapon.
She began to scream, “Go! Get out of here! All of you! I will have your heads if you do not leave my sight right NOW!”
We ran for the horses and leapt onto their backs, spurring them on with a quick kick of our heels. We thundered toward the road for many minutes before we dared to slow down; the fear of Quasar’s wife still upon us.
Jelme spoke first, “She is scary, Quasar! What was that she was holding? It looked like a club of some sort!”
“It was one of the legs of our table. She snapped it off and started smashing things in the house. She told me she was having a baby just last night and begged me not to leave. I told her, ‘Temujin is my brother and Yesugei was my father, too.’ She did not want to hear that and wept all night; calling me every name she could think of – it was many.”
This is where Temujin, Quasar, Jelme, and Bo'orchu are on their way back to the Kerait tribe to set off on a revenge mission. It should be interesting because Temujin has been wanting this for a long LONG time.
We shall see! I hope everyone is enjoying the snippits so far. It is 9am and time to get to work!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
After my things were packed onto Graêl, I kissed my wife, hugged my children, and mounted. Jelme and Bo’orchu were mounting as well but Quasar was nowhere to be seen. We waited a few minutes before dismounting and heading for his yurt. When we approached, we heard Quasar arguing with his wife.
“You are a piece of dung! Why must you leave me in this condition to go follow after your little brother on some conquest that you have no stake in?”
“Wife, the Tatars murdered our father and I owe them a payback just as much as Temujin does. We are brothers. Besides, this could very well make our fortunes. I will return before long, do not worry your head.”
We heard weeping and then something breaking before the shrill voice of Quasar’s wife again filled the air. “Then go! If you have not returned by the time this baby comes, I will kill you in your sleep!”
Quasar stumbled through the door and was shocked to see all of us standing there. He blushed and said, “Yes. Baby. We must go, NOW.”
We all took a moment to clap him on the back and issue congratulations. We took one moment too long and Quasar’s wife came through the door behind him, brandishing a weapon.
She began to scream, “Go! Get out of here! All of you! I will have your heads if you do not leave my sight right NOW!”
We ran for the horses and leapt onto their backs, spurring them on with a quick kick of our heels. We thundered toward the road for many minutes before we dared to slow down; the fear of Quasar’s wife still upon us.
Jelme spoke first, “She is scary, Quasar! What was that she was holding? It looked like a club of some sort!”
“It was one of the legs of our table. She snapped it off and started smashing things in the house. She told me she was having a baby just last night and begged me not to leave. I told her, ‘Temujin is my brother and Yesugei was my father, too.’ She did not want to hear that and wept all night; calling me every name she could think of – it was many.”
This is where Temujin, Quasar, Jelme, and Bo'orchu are on their way back to the Kerait tribe to set off on a revenge mission. It should be interesting because Temujin has been wanting this for a long LONG time.
We shall see! I hope everyone is enjoying the snippits so far. It is 9am and time to get to work!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Monday, February 13, 2012
Itchy Fingers
My fingers are itching with ideas I had over the weekend and I can't wait to begin writing again today. This has been one of the most difficult undertakings I have ever attempted - second only to graduating college. I have re-written the beginning of my book three times before I decided I was ready to continue with chapter 1. Since the prologue, the book took on a personality of its own and has literally flown out of my fingers. I hope to write at least three chapters this week, possibly four. My goal is to get it ON paper then tweak it and roll it around in my head for a while.
I am going to the Savannah, Georgia, book fair this weekend and I hope to be introduced to some new writers and some inspiration. Savannah is so beautiful and for them to have a whole weekend dedicated to books, well, they won me over even more. I am an avid reader as well as being a writer. I have a huge library of books and am always on the lookout for another great read.
I hope you are all excited that Temujin is about to have the sweet taste of revenge on his tongue yet again! My focus group loves it when he acts in the name of justice and they say they punch the air on occasion when things go right for this young warrior. That tells me he is, not only likeable, but that they are rooting for him to win. That's my kind of character!
I had an idea for a young reader's series yesterday and logged it in my idea book. I will make plans for the writing of the first one once this one hits the e-readers. I am lucky that I can write. I am thankful for the gift every day. For all of you writers, do you keep an idea book? I am curious to know just what others do.
Time to get to work!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
I am going to the Savannah, Georgia, book fair this weekend and I hope to be introduced to some new writers and some inspiration. Savannah is so beautiful and for them to have a whole weekend dedicated to books, well, they won me over even more. I am an avid reader as well as being a writer. I have a huge library of books and am always on the lookout for another great read.
I hope you are all excited that Temujin is about to have the sweet taste of revenge on his tongue yet again! My focus group loves it when he acts in the name of justice and they say they punch the air on occasion when things go right for this young warrior. That tells me he is, not only likeable, but that they are rooting for him to win. That's my kind of character!
I had an idea for a young reader's series yesterday and logged it in my idea book. I will make plans for the writing of the first one once this one hits the e-readers. I am lucky that I can write. I am thankful for the gift every day. For all of you writers, do you keep an idea book? I am curious to know just what others do.
Time to get to work!
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Friday, February 10, 2012
Chapter 15 is Complete!
I got chapter 15 written yesterday and WOW, what a story! There is a special twist that happens in this chapter so I won't be posting an excerpt. I will give you a taste of chapter 16, where Temujin finally gets to pay some old enemies a visit and gets a little more revenge on people who have wronged him.
Poor Borte is left behind during his conquests! What do you think she will do to occupy herself while her husband is away? Only one way to find out! I know, I know, I am evil and you hate the suspense, right? Haha!
I can't wait to dig in and take a big bite out of chapter 16 this weekend. I ship my most recent work off to my focus group (I call them bookaphyles) today and can't wait to hear their comments. I know they are anxious to hear more of the story and just that makes the whole thing worth it.
I have a story to tell, if just one person enjoys it and learns a little about history while they are at it, I will be satisfied.
To the writers who read this blog, let me tell you that just producing a rough draft of a manuscript is an accomplishment you should pat yourself for every day. How many people that you know have ever written more than 200 pages of ANYthing in their lives?
Smile and know that you have done something great by enriching the life of someone else through your words.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Poor Borte is left behind during his conquests! What do you think she will do to occupy herself while her husband is away? Only one way to find out! I know, I know, I am evil and you hate the suspense, right? Haha!
I can't wait to dig in and take a big bite out of chapter 16 this weekend. I ship my most recent work off to my focus group (I call them bookaphyles) today and can't wait to hear their comments. I know they are anxious to hear more of the story and just that makes the whole thing worth it.
I have a story to tell, if just one person enjoys it and learns a little about history while they are at it, I will be satisfied.
To the writers who read this blog, let me tell you that just producing a rough draft of a manuscript is an accomplishment you should pat yourself for every day. How many people that you know have ever written more than 200 pages of ANYthing in their lives?
Smile and know that you have done something great by enriching the life of someone else through your words.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Stumbling Along
Even though I was feeling great about the book yesterday, I stumbled over my words and had a difficult time stringing together sentences. I ended up reading rather than writing in the hopes that the mindless activity would provide me with some kind of insight as to why my creative brain had shut down for the day. Today, I have ideas. So many ideas I feel like I won't be able to get them onto the page quickly enough. I feel it, taste it, and know that it will flow well.
For all you writers reading this blog, do you ever have those days where you know your words will flow exactly as you intend them to?
For all you readers, can you tell when your author has had flow through a particular part of a book?
Curiosity sometimes gets the best of me and I end up with too many questions traipsing through my head. I can certainly identify with Temujin, that's for sure.
Well, I am off to write now and help Temujin overcome his angst related to his marital situation. I firmly believe that in this day and age, these two would not have made it this far in their relationship. It really makes me sit back and think about the days when people actually tried and didn't give up so easily. Perhaps we are spoiled...
In any case, until tomorrow, WRITE ON!!
Jo
For all you writers reading this blog, do you ever have those days where you know your words will flow exactly as you intend them to?
For all you readers, can you tell when your author has had flow through a particular part of a book?
Curiosity sometimes gets the best of me and I end up with too many questions traipsing through my head. I can certainly identify with Temujin, that's for sure.
Well, I am off to write now and help Temujin overcome his angst related to his marital situation. I firmly believe that in this day and age, these two would not have made it this far in their relationship. It really makes me sit back and think about the days when people actually tried and didn't give up so easily. Perhaps we are spoiled...
In any case, until tomorrow, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Chapter 14 is Written!
Yesterday, I was a machine and I cranked out over six-thousand words. Arguments and strain and betrayal and threats and oh man was it an awesome day!
I am feeling very good about my book today. I can't wait to publish it and let the world read this story that will have you punching the air with your fist and saying, "YESSSSSSSS!" one minute, crying into your pillow the next, then laughing hysterically at the antics of some of the more unique characters. I am filled with the emotions my characters experience and I am loving the roller coaster I am on.
My characters sleep with me at night and whisper their thoughts in my ear. They sit with me when I drink coffee and tell me their personal stories. It took me ten chapters before I truly knew them, but the journey has been worth every reward they have bestowed upon me. We have fought together, cried together, been terrified together, and even celebrated together on occasion.
I think the best thing about this whole story is that it has been based on history. Though some of the situations, some of the characters, and all of the character makeups are totally fictional, what Temujin and Borte went through before they were allowed to be together in reality just blows my mind.
I can't wait to share parts of the next few chapters. If you are reading this blog and have a moment, go back through the posted excerpts and have a look-see.
I will have this book IN your hands by the beginning of June (hopefully much sooner) so keep your eyes open and glued to this blog for an exact release date if you are as excited as I am.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
I am feeling very good about my book today. I can't wait to publish it and let the world read this story that will have you punching the air with your fist and saying, "YESSSSSSSS!" one minute, crying into your pillow the next, then laughing hysterically at the antics of some of the more unique characters. I am filled with the emotions my characters experience and I am loving the roller coaster I am on.
My characters sleep with me at night and whisper their thoughts in my ear. They sit with me when I drink coffee and tell me their personal stories. It took me ten chapters before I truly knew them, but the journey has been worth every reward they have bestowed upon me. We have fought together, cried together, been terrified together, and even celebrated together on occasion.
I think the best thing about this whole story is that it has been based on history. Though some of the situations, some of the characters, and all of the character makeups are totally fictional, what Temujin and Borte went through before they were allowed to be together in reality just blows my mind.
I can't wait to share parts of the next few chapters. If you are reading this blog and have a moment, go back through the posted excerpts and have a look-see.
I will have this book IN your hands by the beginning of June (hopefully much sooner) so keep your eyes open and glued to this blog for an exact release date if you are as excited as I am.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Chapter Outline
Well, I got my chapter outline done today. I wasn't sure how quickly the plot would progress until I got chapters 1-10 out of the way but I have a pretty good grasp of the story now and how it has decided to breathe. Here are all of the chapter titles and they tell a bit about what happens by name.
I am not listing summaries because, in my FIRM opinion, summaries are spoilers and you do not want to miss the upcoming action in this book! So, without further ado:
Prologue
Chapter 1 – The Business of Wives:
Chapter 2 – Of Plots and Abandonment:
Chapter 3 – Metamorphosis
Chapter 4 – I Run, I Hide, I Die
Chapter 5 – Slaves
Chapter 6 – Escape
Chapter 7 – It’s Me Again
Chapter 8 – Training
Chapter 9 – Marriage
Chapter 10 – Bloodlust
Chapter 11 – To War
Chapter 12 – Revenge and Recovery
Chapter 13 – My Love
Chapter 14 – Goings and Comings
Chapter 15 – A Son is Born
Chapter 16 – The Tatars
Chapter 17 – Homecoming
Chapter 18 – Domination
Chapter 19 – Assassination
Chapter 20 – Rivalry
Chapter 21 – Ultimate Betrayal
Chapter 22 – Friends and Foes
Chapter 23 – Hunter
Chapter 24 – Borte
Chapter 25 – Fire Burns a Mighty Path
Chapter 26 – Seizure
Chapter 27 – Friendship
Chapter 28 – Genghis Khan
And, there you have it!!
I hope this puts some excitement into you for the upcoming excerpts!!
Until next time, Write ON!
Jo
I am not listing summaries because, in my FIRM opinion, summaries are spoilers and you do not want to miss the upcoming action in this book! So, without further ado:
Prologue
Chapter 1 – The Business of Wives:
Chapter 2 – Of Plots and Abandonment:
Chapter 3 – Metamorphosis
Chapter 4 – I Run, I Hide, I Die
Chapter 5 – Slaves
Chapter 6 – Escape
Chapter 7 – It’s Me Again
Chapter 8 – Training
Chapter 9 – Marriage
Chapter 10 – Bloodlust
Chapter 11 – To War
Chapter 12 – Revenge and Recovery
Chapter 13 – My Love
Chapter 14 – Goings and Comings
Chapter 15 – A Son is Born
Chapter 16 – The Tatars
Chapter 17 – Homecoming
Chapter 18 – Domination
Chapter 19 – Assassination
Chapter 20 – Rivalry
Chapter 21 – Ultimate Betrayal
Chapter 22 – Friends and Foes
Chapter 23 – Hunter
Chapter 24 – Borte
Chapter 25 – Fire Burns a Mighty Path
Chapter 26 – Seizure
Chapter 27 – Friendship
Chapter 28 – Genghis Khan
And, there you have it!!
I hope this puts some excitement into you for the upcoming excerpts!!
Until next time, Write ON!
Jo
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Weekends are Good
Due to having a weekend off from life, I will write the hell outta my book. Chapters 14, 15, and 16 will be produced by Monday!! Perhaps I will post a little summary of chapter 15 so everyone reading this can get a feel for how the story is progressing. Perhaps.
Time to GET BUSY!!
Write ON!!
Jo
Time to GET BUSY!!
Write ON!!
Jo
Friday, February 3, 2012
Chapter 13 Excerpt!!
As promised, a little snatch from the middle of Chapter 13!!
When I woke, her eyes were open and she was touching my hair and looking at me with such reverence on her face and such love in her eyes that my whole body tingled and my heart beat faster. I smiled sleepily at her and pulled her close. When she stiffened against me, I cringed inside and wondered if we could ever again be as we were. Those thoughts saddened me a bit but I decided to put them aside for the moment and just enjoy the closeness of my wife.
I rose and called for Jamuka to come and sit with her while I went to find her some decent clothing. I hunted through the yurts until I found one that had been abandoned and had the touch of a woman on the inside. I sifted clothing until I found suitable attire and loaded my arms down with garments before heading back to the place I had left my wife.
With Temujin terrified to leave Borte's side, it makes one wonder how he manages to become Khan, doesn't it?
There is much betrayal still to come. Read what one of the critics said:
"I also really like Temujin’s character development. He’s a little clumsy and unsure of himself right now, growing from that colt-ish young man into something more. It’s nice to see an author make the reader take that journey with the character. It’s frustrating to me when I read about someone being perfect from the get-go." ~ B. Henderson
This story does, indeed, take you from an awkward nine-year-old's perspective to that of a full grown man's. I thought it pertinent to allow the book lover to grow up with the little rascal so they could have a better understanding of why he loves his wife the way he does and why he has so much trust in his anda.
I hope you are all chomping at the bit for the book now! More updates tomorrow!
Until then, WRITE ON!
Jo
When I woke, her eyes were open and she was touching my hair and looking at me with such reverence on her face and such love in her eyes that my whole body tingled and my heart beat faster. I smiled sleepily at her and pulled her close. When she stiffened against me, I cringed inside and wondered if we could ever again be as we were. Those thoughts saddened me a bit but I decided to put them aside for the moment and just enjoy the closeness of my wife.
I rose and called for Jamuka to come and sit with her while I went to find her some decent clothing. I hunted through the yurts until I found one that had been abandoned and had the touch of a woman on the inside. I sifted clothing until I found suitable attire and loaded my arms down with garments before heading back to the place I had left my wife.
With Temujin terrified to leave Borte's side, it makes one wonder how he manages to become Khan, doesn't it?
There is much betrayal still to come. Read what one of the critics said:
"I also really like Temujin’s character development. He’s a little clumsy and unsure of himself right now, growing from that colt-ish young man into something more. It’s nice to see an author make the reader take that journey with the character. It’s frustrating to me when I read about someone being perfect from the get-go." ~ B. Henderson
This story does, indeed, take you from an awkward nine-year-old's perspective to that of a full grown man's. I thought it pertinent to allow the book lover to grow up with the little rascal so they could have a better understanding of why he loves his wife the way he does and why he has so much trust in his anda.
I hope you are all chomping at the bit for the book now! More updates tomorrow!
Until then, WRITE ON!
Jo
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Back to Writing!
It's been an interesting couple of days but I am jumping back on the wagon today. Time to crack down and produce some more literary fiction for all you folks to consume!
I was nervous about writing chapter 12 but now that it's under my belt, I feel really good about it. Running the roads for the last two days has left me drained but super excited to get on with the story today.
We will see how it goes!
I will update a little later, gotta go help Jamuka formulate a plan to get what he wants. I just hope my friends aren't on vacation today and will acquiesce to pay me a visit. It's been a MOST excellent week and things in my personal life are going well so I was able to get my housework done. Ha! No rest for the weary but at least everything smells lemon fresh!
Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
I was nervous about writing chapter 12 but now that it's under my belt, I feel really good about it. Running the roads for the last two days has left me drained but super excited to get on with the story today.
We will see how it goes!
I will update a little later, gotta go help Jamuka formulate a plan to get what he wants. I just hope my friends aren't on vacation today and will acquiesce to pay me a visit. It's been a MOST excellent week and things in my personal life are going well so I was able to get my housework done. Ha! No rest for the weary but at least everything smells lemon fresh!
Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Monday, January 30, 2012
Building Up & Breaking Down
It's kind of a funny thing I have going here with my main characters. I find myself building up relationships only to have them break down in the worst way after a chapter or two. Conflicts are running amok (love that word) and the ultimate betrayal of friendship is right around the corner.
In Mongolia, during the period when this story takes place, they sometimes had an honorary brother called an anda. It is a huge thing to break trust or betray your anda so when it happens in this story, it's not something to be taken lightly. I will show how the love of a woman can tear down men and make them mortal enemies until death; no matter how close they started out.
Some people say it seems a bit unbelievable. I say, if it is possible, it has been done; we just don't know it happened. Someone needed to tell this story of love, betrayal, and the ultimate sacrifice. I'm just glad Temujin allowed it to be me.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
In Mongolia, during the period when this story takes place, they sometimes had an honorary brother called an anda. It is a huge thing to break trust or betray your anda so when it happens in this story, it's not something to be taken lightly. I will show how the love of a woman can tear down men and make them mortal enemies until death; no matter how close they started out.
Some people say it seems a bit unbelievable. I say, if it is possible, it has been done; we just don't know it happened. Someone needed to tell this story of love, betrayal, and the ultimate sacrifice. I'm just glad Temujin allowed it to be me.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Excerpt Chapter 12
An excerpt from yesterday's chapter:
I walked up and put my mouth to his ear and allowed myself to revel in the fact that he was trembling in fear of me before I hissed, in a low whisper with a deep, guttural sound, “No. I told you I would spare your family. Watch what I do to your brothers and be thankful you loosed your tongue.”
With that, I turned and strode to the smallest child remaining in the line. I raised my sword and cut off her head in one motion. Her father screamed and made promises to end my life before I had him gagged and moved on to his wife. I told my man to hold him so he could watch what his actions had brought down upon his family. I knelt down to the weeping woman and raised her chin.
I looked into her eyes and asked, “Do you love your husband?”
She nodded.
“Did you love your child?”
Again, she nodded.
“Do you know why I am going to kill you?”
She began to cry harder and nodded her head vigorously.
“Let your husband know what a filthy pig he is and how you are dishonored by his actions against my wife.”
She screamed, “I cannot believe you would do this to your family! You have brought down the anger of God by stealing another man’s wife! Why must you have been so full of greed? You have disgraced us all!”
I cut her throat and let her fall into the dirt.
My character took a terrible turn for me yesterday and his actions seemed a bit despicable to me at first. When I talk of him murdering children, I get a little sick. However, he promised to make those men never forget his name and to make sure that no one would ever dare touch a member of his family again. I'm guessing this did the trick if those men went and spoke of the atrocities committed in the name of vengeance.
Jamuka makes his first turn in this chapter as well. We shall see what he does with his newly recognized feelings and how he decides to win the heart of the woman he loves.
Writing chapter 13 today, possibly. I may let it stew a day or two...
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
I walked up and put my mouth to his ear and allowed myself to revel in the fact that he was trembling in fear of me before I hissed, in a low whisper with a deep, guttural sound, “No. I told you I would spare your family. Watch what I do to your brothers and be thankful you loosed your tongue.”
With that, I turned and strode to the smallest child remaining in the line. I raised my sword and cut off her head in one motion. Her father screamed and made promises to end my life before I had him gagged and moved on to his wife. I told my man to hold him so he could watch what his actions had brought down upon his family. I knelt down to the weeping woman and raised her chin.
I looked into her eyes and asked, “Do you love your husband?”
She nodded.
“Did you love your child?”
Again, she nodded.
“Do you know why I am going to kill you?”
She began to cry harder and nodded her head vigorously.
“Let your husband know what a filthy pig he is and how you are dishonored by his actions against my wife.”
She screamed, “I cannot believe you would do this to your family! You have brought down the anger of God by stealing another man’s wife! Why must you have been so full of greed? You have disgraced us all!”
I cut her throat and let her fall into the dirt.
My character took a terrible turn for me yesterday and his actions seemed a bit despicable to me at first. When I talk of him murdering children, I get a little sick. However, he promised to make those men never forget his name and to make sure that no one would ever dare touch a member of his family again. I'm guessing this did the trick if those men went and spoke of the atrocities committed in the name of vengeance.
Jamuka makes his first turn in this chapter as well. We shall see what he does with his newly recognized feelings and how he decides to win the heart of the woman he loves.
Writing chapter 13 today, possibly. I may let it stew a day or two...
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Revenge
Today is all about revenge. We are going to slaughter them all. They have stolen her and we are going to get her back with much bloodshed. There will be no mercy. :)
I can't wait to get started today and have been building this up for a few chapters. Let's see how it goes!
You may get an excerpt tomorrow :)
Until then, WRITE ON!!
Jo
I can't wait to get started today and have been building this up for a few chapters. Let's see how it goes!
You may get an excerpt tomorrow :)
Until then, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Monday, January 23, 2012
Cruising Right Along
Well, chapter 10 is complete! I promised you a list of the chapter titles thus far and I am delivering on that promise today.
Prologue
Chapter 1 - The Business of Wives
Chapter 2 - Of Plots and Abandonment
Chapter 3 - Metamorphosis
Chapter 4 - I Run, I Hide, I Die
Chapter 5 - Slaves
Chapter 6 - Escape
Chapter 7 - It's Me Again
Chapter 8 - Training
Chapter 9 - Marriage
Chapter 10 - Bloodlust
Chapter 11 - To War
That's all I have written/started so far. When we get to the part about revenge, there will be much bloodshed in the honor of love and retribution. I am so in tune with Temujin right now, I feel his anger and desire revenge as much as he does.
I hope everyone reading this blog will be looking forward to the resulting book. I am almost halfway there and the story took over. A minor character had the nerve to walk in and make himself a major character without my permission but he adds a certain something to the story line and could not be denied his desired status.
I am falling in love with each of my characters and when I kill them, it will hurt. You'll understand why when you meet them.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Prologue
Chapter 1 - The Business of Wives
Chapter 2 - Of Plots and Abandonment
Chapter 3 - Metamorphosis
Chapter 4 - I Run, I Hide, I Die
Chapter 5 - Slaves
Chapter 6 - Escape
Chapter 7 - It's Me Again
Chapter 8 - Training
Chapter 9 - Marriage
Chapter 10 - Bloodlust
Chapter 11 - To War
That's all I have written/started so far. When we get to the part about revenge, there will be much bloodshed in the honor of love and retribution. I am so in tune with Temujin right now, I feel his anger and desire revenge as much as he does.
I hope everyone reading this blog will be looking forward to the resulting book. I am almost halfway there and the story took over. A minor character had the nerve to walk in and make himself a major character without my permission but he adds a certain something to the story line and could not be denied his desired status.
I am falling in love with each of my characters and when I kill them, it will hurt. You'll understand why when you meet them.
Until next time, WRITE ON!!
Jo
Friday, January 13, 2012
Welcome to Yassa Book 2012's Blog!
Welcome to the blog that is all about the book! Yassa. My name is Jo Michaels and I am the author of this whirlwind love story. Here I will update folks on the progress of the book and what sort of walls I come across. I may also write about how I move past certain obstacles that end up in my way for one reason or another. I have an elite team of readers providing me with feedback on a weekly basis and hope to find a fantastic editor sometime in the future.
I fully intend to do the artwork and typesetting for the entire publication myself. Publication date will be set at a later time but I am fully scheduled for a late April/early June release (digitally). Check back here often for excerpts from the book and to keep abreast of the latest feedback from my glorious readers.
I am going to start you all off with a bit of a teaser. Here are the first two paragraphs of the book:
I fully intend to do the artwork and typesetting for the entire publication myself. Publication date will be set at a later time but I am fully scheduled for a late April/early June release (digitally). Check back here often for excerpts from the book and to keep abreast of the latest feedback from my glorious readers.
I am going to start you all off with a bit of a teaser. Here are the first two paragraphs of the book:
He screamed, louder this time, as
Temujin cut off another one of his fingers. I involuntarily flexed my own in
response to the act. I had never seen a man fight like my friend had last
night. It was like something other than his own mind was working his muscles,
causing him to strike and slash like a harbinger of death. It made me
appreciate that I had made a friend of him and not an enemy. When he began to
peel back the man’s skin from his body, I almost vomited. I took a few steps
away and turned my head.
We had snuck into the Merkit’s camp
under the cover of darkness and took them by surprise. There was little
fighting. Temujin had been given 20,000 soldiers by the great Wang Khan, leader
of the Kerait
tribe, in order to decimate the Merkits. Temujin did so with excellent war
tactics, stealth, and swiftness. Wang Khan came to watch. I believe it was so he
can use Temujin as a weapon of war. After our escape from slavery, Temujin has
proven himself a mighty warrior with a very steadfast composure. If the legends
are true and he was born grasping a blood clot, a sign one is destined for
something very great, he would be a mighty weapon in anyone’s arsenal. Wang Khan
has recognized this and, I believe, is cultivating it for his own gain.
If you like what you have read here, make sure and mark your calendars, nook readers!! More is coming soon!
If you like what you have read here, make sure and mark your calendars, nook readers!! More is coming soon!
Write on!
Jo
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)