For those interested, a few tidbits about ISB4.  The story takes place three years after ISB3 (An Oath of the Children).  Kiernan, Beck, Rogan & Airron, now in their early forties, are enmeshed in their own lives.  Soon, deadly political games bring the old friends back together again just to tear them apart in a powder keg of intrigue where no one is safe.  Lifelong alliances are questioned, battle lines are drawn and tragedy strikes.  Twice.

Of the children, Kenley is away on humanitarian travels.  Kellan, Kane & Reilly are at Mage training for most of the story, but Jala and Izzy play prominent roles. 

Readers are introduced to a rogue male Draca Cat named Regus who prowls the borders of Iserlohn.   Enormous and powerful, Regus is unique in his capacity to summon a primordial element of his dragon heritage—fire breathing.  But, due to his inability to control the magic that rages inside, he shuns his fellow Dracas.  When an innocent life hangs in the balance, will this fierce loner do what he must at the price of his freedom?  Or will he walk away?

 Even I’m not sure yet. ;)

[Insert hard brake sound effect here].  I had a change of mind that I hope won't upset too many people.  But...I'm shelving Island Shifters - An Oath of the King to finish Angels of the Knights - Nikki.  Why?  Two reasons. 

First, when last we left off in Book 3 of Island Shifters, everything was buttoned up very tidy.  No cliffhangers, no teasers, no cursing or clamoring.  Perfect.  Just the way I like it.  Since Book 4 is going to be the start of a brand new adventure, there is no sense of urgency (at least no one has indicated as such to me). 

Second, and simply put, more people want Nikki.  Issues are unresolved.  The fate of a certain character is unknown.  It's the last book in a trilogy.  Urgency is higher. 

So, onward with Nikki.  I'm really excited to explore her story.  I will post an estimated release date within a few weeks when I have a better idea.

As always, I welcome any and all comments.

Thanks for reading.

~Valerie~

Airron Falewir, Melania and his manservant, Quincy (yes, the same Quincy that tried to bar Airron from seeing Melania at the end of Book Two) are discussing the fact that King Thorn has been murdered by an alleged Mage.

   “I’m afraid I have devastating news, my Lady.”  Quincy turned toward Airron and wiggled his nose in distaste.  “My Lord.”
   “Out with it, man.  What's happened?” Airron asked, planting his feet and crossing his arms at his chest. 
   One of the soldiers behind Quincy stepped forward.  “King Thorn is dead, Lord Falewir.  Murdered in his private gardens this morning.”
   Melania let out a squeal of disbelief.
   “Murdered?”
   He nodded.  "The Gladewatcher on duty claims a sorcerer appeared out of nowhere and attacked them in the gardens.  The Mage tangled him up with a spell and then killed the King.  A few moments after the assassin left, the spell dissipated, but it was too late.”
   “A Mage?" Airron mused out loud, running a hand through his long, white hair.  "That’s impossible.  Beck assured me that the Dagarmon are marked.”
   “Can we believe him?” Melania asked quietly.
   His gaze snapped to hers.  “Of course, we can believe him!  I’ve known Beck since we were children.  He’s like a brother to me, Melania, as you very well know.  Come now, the bloody man carried me across his back for leagues once to save my life!”
   “That was many years ago.”
   Violet eyes narrowed to slits.  “What are you suggesting?”
   “I am just pointing out that people change, Airron.  Certainly, you don’t expect Beck to be the same as he was back then just as you are not the same man you once were.”
   Airron rubbed his jaw.  Her point would be well taken if they were talking about any other man.  But, this was Beck Atlan.  “If Beck says the Dagarmon are marked, then they are marked.  Regardless,” he said moving toward the door, “this unconscionable act must be taken up with the Council of Kings.  We cannot—.”  He stopped suddenly as the implication of King Thorn’s death sank in.  “Wait, if Thorn…that means…”
   “Yes,” Quincy muttered dryly and dropped to one knee, “you are now the King of Haventhal.  Dear Highworld, help us all.”

With Blane finally wrapped, I am now officially working on Island Shifters - An Oath of the Kings. The pages are still blank, but old friends and new adventures await me there. The possibilities are limitless. It's sort of what a child feels like in a candy store. Only with a lot more fighting ;)

I just received a draft of the cover for Island Shifters - An Oath of the Kings from the talented Nick Deligaris and was blown away.  The detail is simply amazing and I can't wait to share it with you.  I'm even more excited to start writing this one.  The ideas are bouncing around inside my head like out-of-control ping pong balls and I must put fingers to keyboard soon to get relief.

Stay tuned...

~Valerie~