It’s hard to believe, but The Opal Crown, the second and final book in The Opal Mask series, officially hits bookstores today! For the past week I’ve been walking around with a sense of deep gratitude, knowing that this day was coming. Of all the books I’ve written, I don’t think I’ve ever felt more grateful to see this one launched out into the world.
Here’s why: I started journaling images and ideas for this series nearly ten years ago, before I began any of my other published works. By the time I sat down to actually write the opening scenes of The Princess in the Opal Mask, I knew where Elara and Wilha would eventually end up. And I also knew that place was far from where I would leave them at the end of that first book. What I didn’t know, was if I’d ever have the chance to show the world the true ending of Elara and Wilha’s story.
When an author begins writing a book that she/he hopes to turn into a series, there is little that’s certain. We don’t know if an editor will acquire the first book at all, and if it is acquired, there’s no guarantee said editor will want a series, as opposed to a stand-alone title.
But I found a willing partner in my editor and my publisher, Running Press Teens, and I couldn’t be more grateful for them, and for all of you who have cheered me on as I wrote The Opal Mask books. It means the world to me. The story of two girls, raised in vastly different circumstances who have to come together to fight for their kingdom and the right to choose their own destiny has captivated my imagination for a long time, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little sad at the thought that my time working on this story is done.
But! I am so excited to show everyone where these two girls end up. And with that in mind, today I’m offering everyone the chance to read the first two chapters of The Opal Crown for free here on my blog. Simply click on the link below.
Read the first two chapters of The Opal Crown!
Purchase The Opal Crown from Barnes & Noble, Amazon, or Indiebound.
Thanks for stopping by! And remember that The Opal Crown blog tour still has a few days to go, where we’re giving away books and a $25 gift card to Amazon. The tour schedule can be found here.
Also, if you are in northern California this weekend, come join me for The Opal Crown launch party at Barnes & Noble in Citrus Heights! Details are here.
