I have an idea…

So let’s talk about it.

This is the first basic idea I had…and though I was hesitant about it, Deleyna’s comments in the last post convinced me to share this for your thoughts. You give me courage in forming ides, you know why?

Your feedback is always helpful. Always.

Makes me smile, just thinking about that.

To make sure we stay on track, let’s look at the last cover, beCAUSE I want some consistency in this first series. That means some of the cover parts are already decided, mainly;

The title font…you already helped me pick that out, and it’s perfect, so it stays, and;

The paper background…it brings out the ‘cartoon-ISH’ art and provides a kid/youth feel of fantasy that I couldn’t achieve with other textures (tried nearly a dozen last time). So the paper stays as well, with perhaps a few shifts of the watermarks.

Step #2 - Finding what we like by seeing what we DON’T like…and YES, all ideas are welcome!

Let’s do a simple breakdown of the cover components. I’ve labeled the sketch so you can follow along.

The biggest problem I had was trying to show the small size of the Underlings. Ro an Ru are having an adventure among another den of their people, in a place where there aren’t many comparisons in size. Not great for a cover.

So I took the last picture from Season 1 and considered that as the cover idea, then mixed it with the elements of Season 2.

Specifically the weather.

Here’s the breakdown of the cover elements we have to be aware of:

• A) Title. This will remain the same. The font is perfect. Positioned at the top of the cover, the green will shine against the background.

• B) ‘Created by JAIME BUCKLEY’, again, remains the same. Same font, size and likely positioning.

• C) Current title, “RUNAWAYS” will be the same font as the series title. This will be centered at the bottom of the front cover.

• D) Where the ISBN and barcode will go, along with all the meta/publisher logo, podcast icons and the like. It’ll be the exact same as the first cover.

• E) This is the new fun. Storm clouds. Black, looming, filled with energy, power and shooting lightening. This, I believe, can show the danger ahead, because Ro and Ru are flying INTO the storm.

• F) The Wild Lands….what they are leaving behind, to confront/face the unknown.

• G) Ro, Ru & Nopeus….this s the very center of the scene. I am thinking of a look of determination on Nopeus’s face, with the children hanging on for dear life. Faces turned from the wind and rain, Ru hanging on desperately to her big brother…
  I like the wings stretched out across the full cover, because that helps show the size difference with the Underlings.

• H) The back matter. There will be an eye-catching blurb, then a short synopsis to get the readers interest and hopefully perk their interest.

• I) QUOTES! This will be new, and something I hope YOU will participate in. I am looking for quotes from a parent OR a child, that i can put on here, with a first name and age. If an adult, maybe with a quote of your experience with your child(ren), then allow me to put your name and something like ‘Kristie Alers, mom of 2’??
  I’d like to get at least 2 quotes, one from a child, if possible.

There you go. That’s what we have so far and I’m awaiting your feedback, views, thoughts, inspirations, and yes,….even your criticisms.

Throw your wildest, most brilliant ideas into the mix! Every thought matters.💡🔥

Let’s hear it—your feeback starts NOW. 💬✨

Author Notes

Please, do NOT HOLD BACK….I’m counting on you for creative feedback, creativity sparks because you have proven THIS community can provide it!!

You’re awesome =)

Jaime

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It’s that time again, my friends…COVER CREATION!!

Remember this?

…and it morphed into this?

Well, it’s time to start discussing the cover ideas for Season 2 of The Underlings, and there’s no way I’m going to do this without you!

Step #1 - Brainstorming ‘The Underlings: Runaways’ cover…and all ideas are welcome!

We need to place all the ideas, no matter how crazy, on the table to sift through them. This will not only allow everyone in the community to get involved, it’ll allow me some time to work on the book edits.

…and I hope (crossing fingers on BOTH hands…and some toes) get the audio redone.

It's time to flex those creative muscles and help shape the face of The Underlings: Runaways. The cover is the first thing people will see, so let’s make it unforgettable! Here are some things to consider as you brainstorm:

• Mood & Atmosphere
  What vibe screams "Runaways"? Is it gritty and rebellious? Mysterious and dangerous? Or are we aiming for a mix of hope, tension, and wild adventure?

• Character Focus
  Who needs to stand out? Are we spotlighting our scrappy underlings, their loyal bonds, or the forces chasing them down? Think expressions, poses, and that oomph moment that sums up their journey.

• The Big Picture
  What story do you want the cover to whisper (or shout!) before anyone even cracks it open? A daring escape? A secret world? A clash between light and shadow? Think iconic moments.

• Symbolism
  Are there objects, colors, or symbols that represent this season’s themes? Maybe a worn map, a flickering streetlight torch or lamp, or something cryptic that only true fans will get (wink-wink).

• Action or Stillness?
  Does the cover need explosive motion (think running feet, clenched fists, or a dramatic standoff), or something quieter but dripping with tension, like a shadowed figure slipping through a back alley the trees or across the horizon?

• Color Palette
  What hues hit the emotional notes of this story? Dark and moody? Vibrant with rebellion? Or something unique that screams "RUNAWAYS!" and grabs attention from across the room?

• Genre Shout-Out
  How do we scream “fantasy adventure” while making this cover uniquely Underlings? A touch of magic, a dash of grit, and that raw human element that makes the series stand out.

• Easter Egg Awesomeness
  What sneaky little details can we hide in plain sight for sharp-eyed fans to notice? Bonus points if it makes readers yell, “HOW DID I MISS THAT?!” after finishing the season.

• Typography That Slaps
  The title and author’s name need to POP. Are we going for bold, distressed fonts? Something sleek and modern? Or maybe something wild and edgy to match the runaway vibe?

• Think of the Target Audience
  What will grab the attention of our core readers? Who are we winking at with this cover, and how do we make them need to pick it up?

• Personal Favorite Moment
  If you’ve got a scene or an image from the story that’s been living rent-free in your head, share it! Sometimes the best ideas come from those raw, unforgettable moments.

• What Would You Click?
  Imagine scrolling through a sea of books (digital or physical). What would make you stop, click, or grab the cover for a closer look? THAT’S what we’re chasing here.

Throw your wildest, most brilliant ideas into the mix! Every thought matters. Who knows? Your spark of genius could shape the face of Season 2. 💡🔥

Let’s hear it—your brainstorming starts NOW. 💬✨

Author Notes

Seriously, do NOT HOLD BACK….I’m counting on you for brilliant views, wisdom, creativity sparks that only THIS community can provide!!

Jaime

<--- Read PREVIOUS Chapter

Well, here we are, reader.

At the end.

It makes my heart sad to see Ro in such danger, with Ru and Kari so close behind him.

I wish I had better news for you, but I'm afraid this is all going to end badly.

Yes, I know I said last time that I believed everything would be okay, but…this wasn't at all what I thought Ro and Ru's adventure would be like. Not when they ran away from their father and the Crumblers.

What?

I never said I knew everything that would happen to them.

Coming to the Skimmers was supposed to allow Ro and Ru to hide. To make some new friends and wait for their father to stop looking so hard for them.

…and what did they get?

A new, crazy Den Father, who has taken over an entire island…and somehow taken the life-force of the island itself!

How can children win against someone like that?

What's that?

I…well, okay, maybe I am jumping ahead, and should have more faith and confidence in Ro and Ru.

…but LOOK at Ro…he's DROWNING!

Sorry…didn't mean to yell like that.

I'm worried, and I'm almost afraid to watch.

…which is why I'm glad you're here with me.

You're braver than I am, reader.

*sigh*

I'm going to cross my fingers this time.

(I think you should do it too…)

Here we go…

The Den Father looked angry and hurt. His tunic was torn in many places. He had cuts on his face, hands and arms…probably from the cave collapsing. How he'd survived was a mystery.

Now the Den Father stood over Ro, smiling.

In fact, the Den Father was standing over everything.

That's because he was on top of a giant pillar of water, which he'd pulled up from the ocean at the edge of the cliff. Now he was using his 'gift', to use that water from the pillar to drown poor Ro. Smooshing him against the ground.

Struggling to breathe, Ro panicked.

Read more

<--- Read PREVIOUS Chapter

There you are!

Come sit over here for a moment. I think we should have a little talk before we get started.

Yes, right there.

Well now, this has been quite the adventure so far, hasn’t it?

So many challenges in such a little time, and I don’t know about you, but it’s becoming quite overwhelming for me.

What’s ‘overwhelming?’

That means when there is just too much of a thing and sometimes we can feel weighed down by it.

That’s what I wanted to talk to you about.

This story with Ro and Ru has been one trouble after another. No matter how hard they try, others seem to fight them or make things worse.

Not everyone, of course. Dear little Kari has been wonderful, even though she doesn’t know everything that’s going on.

…but this has been a hard adventure for two children, so small, and so young.

I wanted to make sure you were okay.

To make sure you knew that even though Ro and Ru have had to do many hard things, they are still the heroes of this story.

You know that, don’t you?

Do I believe things will be okay?

Yes, I really do.

Why would I think that?

Well,…have you noticed some clues along the way?

Things like the island guiding Ru? Or the sea reaching out to Ro and adding to his gift in that pool? Or that the I AM hasn’t told them what to do exactly, because she wants them to learn and figure things out for themselves?

Kind of like when our own parents want us to learn and grow by what we experience, huh?

So what DO we know so far?

Read more

<--- Read PREVIOUS Chapter

Read NEXT Chapter --->

Welcome back, dear reader.

Things have gotten worse, haven’t they?

When we left Ro, Ru, and Kari, the island was growing increasingly unstable, and our poor heroes were running out of time.

Ro and Ru had yet to free Nopeus, and now they had to choose between acting and trying to save as many of the Underling people as they could, and fleeing the island.

And you thought your mornings were rough.

But as you’re about to see, time isn’t the only thing slipping away from them.

…something much darker lurks beneath the surface.

The island trembled beneath them, the ground shuddering as if the very earth was in pain. Violent winds howled, kicking up dust and debris that swirled chaotically around the Skimmer settlement. That caused many to flee indoors, for fear of being wounded by flying weapons of nature.

Waves crashed against the rocky shores with ferocious intensity, as though the sea itself was lashing out at the land. Above, the sky had darkened into a swirling mass of storm clouds, heavy with the weight of an impending tempest.

It also seemed as if all the warmth in the world had been inhaled by this storm. The temperature dropped to a bitter cold…where even the Underlings, usually immune to changing weather, shivered in confusion.

Ro and Ru stood at the edge of the settlement, their eyes wide as they watched the destruction unfold before them.

The air was thick with magic—wild, chaotic, and frenzied.

Every gust of wind carried a sense of urgency.

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<--- Read PREVIOUS Chapter

Read NEXT Chapter --->

Well, here we are…on this cursed island again. 

How does it feel, dear reader? 

Unsettling? Scary? 

Well, good. 

I’d be concerned if you felt at ease in a place that quite literally wants to tear itself apart. 

But here we are, with Ro and Ru, huddled under the shelter of a jagged rock. Our poor little heroes had never experienced such things in their young lives. They were used to furring animals and finding fun things to eat in the forest.

Now the wind howled overhead like some great beast wanting to EAT them! 

To make matters worse, the island wasn’t just angry—it was on the edge of something far worse. 

Something terrible!

And our dear Underlings? 

They’re right in the middle of it.

The Den Father had caught them sneaking about. Taking the maps and artifacts from them, he'd left the children to the rage of the storm. Kari tried to argue, but it was no good. 

Ro and Ru crouched under the rock’s jagged overhang, as the wind roared, tearing at their clothes and whipping through their hair. The sea below, roaring back, crashed violently against the jagged cliffs. 

Each wave exploded in mist, making the rock slick beneath their feet. 

But that wasn't even the worst part!

I'm serious!

…the very ground trembled beneath them as if the island itself were holding its breath.

'Listen to the intelligences around you, little ones,' the voice of the I AM echoed. 'The answers lie in what you cannot see.' 

The words, calm and steady as ever, gave the children courage. 

“Nope, that's not confusing in the slightest,” Ru complained. She cast a glance at Ro, who sat quietly beside her, his gaze locked on the horizon. In typical Ro fashion, he seemed to be listening to the I AM with his usual serious expression.

There was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes.

“I think the island’s getting worse,” Ro said, his voice tense. He looked across the distant cliffs, half expecting them to crumble under the force of the winds. He looked to his little sister, and gave her a weak smile. “It’s angry,” he said.

Angry? 

Goodness no, Ro. This island isn’t just angry—it’s positively livid. 

Now, IF you were wondering, 'livid' is just a fancy word for really, really angry. 

But don’t worry, Ro will catch on soon enough. 

They always do. 

After all, what’s an adventure without a bit of danger? Right?

Read more

<--- Read PREVIOUS Chapter

Read NEXT Chapter --->

The sea remembers what we have forgotten. 

What do you think that means, reader?

Oh, don't look at ME,…I have no idea what it….oh, alright, I know exactly what it means, but this story wouldn't be much fun if I just told you.

Hehe.

Those words echoed in Ro and Ru’s minds as they venture deeper into Skimmer Island. A place of secrets, shadows, and strange magic. They’ve unlocked a door (with the help of the I AM), yes, but what does it all mean? 

The maps, the artifacts,…and now a new passage going deeper?

Ah, my friends, the deeper they go, the more dangerous things become. 

And something tells me this won’t be the last time the island shows its teeth.

The narrow passage leading deeper into the island was dark, damp, and treacherous. Their only light was the soft green glow of the runes etched along the walls.

But how long would that last?

These walls seemed to close in around them, jagged rocks jutting out like teeth of a great beast. 

Ro, Ru, and Kari moved carefully, their small footsteps barely making a sound, though the atmosphere around them was anything but silent. The low rumble of the ocean outside reverberated through the stone, and every drip of water echoed ominously.

'Reverberated' simply means a loud noise being repeated several times as an echo,…and 'ominously' means…well, it suggests…that something bad is going to happen.

IF you were wondering.

But we BOTH know something bad is going to happen, don't we?

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<--- Read PREVIOUS Chapter

Read NEXT Chapter --->

Oh good, you're back!

I was starting to worry about you. The storm is almost on us, and I didn't want you to miss hearing Kari's plan…

What?

Did our heroes get any rest?

Well, night fell on the Skimmer settlement, but rest? 

Oh no, that’s not on the agenda tonight for Ro, Ru, and their new ally, Kari. 

They’ve got a plan…a daring plan…to free Nopeus, their magnificent feathered friend who’s locked away in a cage. 

But plans, you see, they rarely go off without a hitch. 

Especially on an island where even the weather has a mind of its own. 

So come a little closer, and let’s find out how our brave Underlings manage, shall we?

The cool night air clung to the stone walls of the settlement, but the tension in the air was heavier than the salty mist coming off the sea. 

Ro, Ru, and Kari crouched low behind a stone wall, their small forms blending into the shadows. The scattered moonlight spilled between the thunder clouds and across the settlement. It cast its own long shadows, which they stuck to, dashing from place to place. 

At a cluster of buildings just under a cliff,  stood an iron cage—tall and imposing, the bars gleaming in the silvery light. Inside, Nopeus stirred, his magnificent wings rustling restlessly. The cage was far too small for their friend, forcing the bird to crouch low to the ground.

“I’ve never seen a bird like him,” Kari whispered, her wide eyes fixed on the massive form inside the cage. “Where did you find him?”

“He found us,” Ru whispered back, her gaze soft as she watched Nopeus shift uncomfortably inside the confines of his cage. “We’ve been through a lot to get here. And we need him if we’re going to get off this island.”

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<--- Read PREVIOUS Chapter

Read NEXT Chapter --->

Hello reader!

Good to see you again. I have a lot to tell you!

Hmmm, is that…popcorn I smell?

mmMMMMmmm….smells WONDerful.

No time for that now, though. We have a situation with Ro and Ru!

The Skimmer Island. 

It's a jagged rock rising out of the churning sea, where storms come as frequently as the tides, as the wind—oh, that wind—it’s as if it carries secrets on its back, whispering to whoever dares to listen. 

Ro and Ru have found themselves trapped here, and if they thought the sky and sea were unforgiving, well... they're in for quite the surprise. 

But don’t worry, dear reader, we’ll stick close by and see what they discover together.

The ground beneath their feet was uneven and sharp, forcing Ro and Ru to step carefully as they trudged along. 

They followed the group of Skimmers, who offered no help or sympathy. In fact, they didn't offer anything at all. 

Jagged cliffs loomed overhead, and the sea below roared like an angry beast, crashing against the rocky shores, spraying them with salty mist. The children soon noticed that the air here felt different.

It was heavier, colder, and thick with the scent of seaweed and salt.

A sudden gust of wind tore through the air, almost knocking Ru off her feet. She stumbled, her small frame no match for the wild winds that whipped across the island. Ro lunged forward, grabbing her arm just in time, his fingers tightening as he pulled her back from the edge of a steep drop.

“Careful,” Ro muttered, his voice low, though he shot her a reassuring glance. “This place is dangerous.”

“Well, duh,” Ru replied, her voice strained but with a small smile of gratitude. “The wind here feels like it has claws. Like it’s trying to tear us off the ground.”

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Ro and Ru are caught between a growing Darkness and the Island itself, trying to stop it.
When the Island asks for help, they panic.
What can children do to save the Wild Lands?
…especially when they're only four inches tall?

The Underlings is a new fantasy adventure for children and their parents.

Make sure to tell a friend!

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<--- Read PREVIOUS Chapter

Read NEXT Chapter --->

Well hello there, reader….

You're back!

…I'm SO happy to see you…and you've come at the perfect time.

Can you feel it? 

The cool wind that smells of salt and adventure? 

A place full of untold dangers, mysterious creatures, and storms that could tear even the bravest Underling from the sky. 

Yeeeesss.

And here we are, high above those swirling waters, with two small figures clinging to the back of a noble bird, caught between the howling wind and the roaring waves below. 

Oh, Ro and Ru—you’ve really gotten yourselves into quite the bind this time, haven’t you? 

But don’t fret, dear reader. 

This isn’t the first time these two have been in trouble, and it won’t be the last. 

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WooHOOOO, I WIN!

After a tough and relentless battle with Amazon, I’m thrilled to announce that The Underlings is finally available in paperback!

Yes, you read that right—I went head-to-head with the corporate behemoth, and guess who came out on top?

Now, you can hold the magic in your hands and experience the adventure in a whole new way.

Get Your Paperback Copy Here!

What Is The Underlings? A World of Magic and Adventure Awaits

For those of you who haven’t yet ventured into the world of The Underlings, let me give you a quick glimpse into the magic that awaits you.

This series follows the incredible journey of Ro and Ru, two brave siblings from the Wild Lands who are anything but ordinary. Standing only four inches tall, these two underlings are plunged into an adventure that will test their courage and cleverness at every turn.

A Tale of Courage and Family

Imagine a world where you’re playing a game of tag, but the stakes are higher than you could ever imagine—when getting tagged means you might not make it home.

The first book, Awakening, is packed with moments that will have you cheering for our tiny heroes as they face off against terrifying creatures, uncover ancient secrets, and hear the voice of something far greater than themselves. The world is on the brink of darkness, and these young adventurers are the only ones who can save it.

But it’s not just about the big battles—The Underlings is also about heart, family, and discovering the strength you never knew you had.

Why You Should Read The Underlings

If you love tales where the small rise up against the mighty, where magic weaves through every page, and where the bonds of family are stronger than any foe, then this is a story you won’t want to miss.

And if you’ve already fallen in love with Ro and Ru, share this story with your friends, your kids, or anyone who needs a bit of wonder in their lives.

Trust me, the adventure is just beginning!

How You Can Help: Spread the Word

You’ve been such a vital part of this community, and there’s an opportunity to spread the love even further.

When you share Life of Fiction with others, whether through email, social media, or good ol’ word of mouth, you’re not just spreading stories—you’re inviting others into a world of creativity, wonder, and connection.

Plus, when you use the ‘share’ button, you’ll get credit for anyone who joins our community, whether they’re diving in for free or jumping into the paid experience.

And because I believe in rewarding kindness, I’ve got some special treats lined up—exclusive goodies that you can’t get anywhere else—just for those who help spread the word.

So, if you know someone who could use a bit of magic in their day, I’d love it if you’d share this with them. Let’s bring more people into the fold and grow this incredible community together. After all, the more, the merrier, right?

Thank you for everything—see you soon!

With all my best,

Jaime

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A Spark of Hope

When shadows fall and dreams are stalled,
And gates of stone stand tall and walled,
Fear not, dear heart, the light will rise,
For magic dwells beyond the skies.

In whispered winds and tales untold,
The pages turn, the brave take hold.
With pen in hand and truth in sight,
We forge ahead, through darkest night.

So trust the stars, they shine for you,
The story’s path is clear and true.
Though battles rage, and trials test,
Hope endures, it never rests.

For every tale must find its way,
And every dawn begins the day.
The book will come, just wait and see—
A gift of love, from Jaime, Ro, and me.

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Oh, dear reader, you’ve arrived at quite the crossroads in our ongoing saga. 

While you may be used to seeing Jaime Buckley, our valiant author and hero, carving stories from the stars and bringing them to life with the flick of his mighty pen, there is an obstacle blocking the latest book from reaching your eager hands. 

And no, it’s not a dragon or some foul sorcerer. 

This time, our villain goes by the name Amazon. 

But don’t worry, we have our trusted allies Ro and Ru, and they won’t be alone in this battle.

…not with the ‘I AM’ on their side.

Let me tell you how it all began…

Jaime’s latest creation, filled with magic, adventure, and more heart than a reader could dream of, was nearing its grand debut. 

It was supposed to flow from his mind to your bookshelf like the enchanted waters of Ephira. 

But no sooner had he completed the final pages when Amazon’s towering gatekeepers appeared—wielding their rules, restrictions, and endless forms that sucked the very magic from the process of publishing. 

If you’re imagining a labyrinth filled with bureaucratic traps, cursed contracts, and a very grumpy minotaur who refuses to negotiate, well, you wouldn’t be far off.

Amazon, the colossal force in the world of books, put up barriers Jaime had never seen before. 

The type of barriers that sap the soul out of an author’s dreams, binding them in the invisible chains of corporate rules, stiff algorithms, and forms that feel like they were written by an army of scribes lost to time.

But here’s where our story takes a turn.

Ro and Ru, those quick-witted and endlessly resourceful companions of Jaime, weren’t about to let this challenge go unanswered. 

Oh no!

These two aren’t your ordinary characters. 

No, Ro, with his sharp mind and deep insight, and Ru, with her unshakable optimism and sheer stubbornness, are the embodiment of determination. 

Ro is already devising strategies, flipping through ancient texts of publishing (or maybe just calling customer service, but he makes it look epic). Meanwhile, Ru won’t let any force—corporate OR otherwise—quench the flames of creativity burning in Jaime's heart.

But what is a great struggle without a bit of divine intervention? 

The ‘I AM,’ the all-seeing, ever-guiding force, is at work behind the scenes, gently nudging our heroes forward. 

When Jaime grows tired, it is the ‘I AM’ who reminds him that his words, his stories, are more powerful than any red tape Amazon could muster. 

With this unstoppable alliance, a new plan is formed. 

They will not be stymied by market forces. They will find a way to bring the book to readers, whether through new platforms, clever marketing, or, dare I say it, an army of readers who believe in the magic of Jaime’s worlds.

Dear reader, make no mistake—this is not the end of the story. 

Ro, Ru, Jaime, and the ‘I AM’ will prevail. 

For nothing, not even the towering might of Amazon, can hold back a book whose time has come. 

The magic is SO strong, and the words SO important, it cause even ME to say…

I’ll tell you next time.

Hehe.

Prepare yourselves—the book is coming. ✨

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Author Notes

I have battled the dark forces of Amazon before…and won.

We shall do so again.

Besides, if they try to block us, I know two Underlings willing to sneak in through and window and pick the locks for me!

UPDATE 9.17.24 5:54 am: I was fighting early this morning, within 15 MINUTES of this post…and the book WILL be approved this week. ALSO — the printed version is the only version with the full map of the wild lands included in the front of the book.

The size of the file didn’t allow for it to be included in the eBook versions =(.

Watch for our announcement.

Jaime

The treat I had in store for you this week is more than a cover reveal…it’s a publication.

It’s up, it’s ready, and the digital version will wrk on any eReader you have that uses an .epub or .mobi file.

Phone. Kindle. Nook. Kobo. iPad.

Got it all.

Good thing about this is, every penny goes to care for my loving family.

Food, shelter, and if I’m good, mayyyybe a coke zero.

Here’s the link:

Buy the Digital version

UPDATE 9.10.24 8:45am: , from our community, informed me that Amazon has made it near impossible to upload a .mobi file via your ‘Send to Kindle’ process.

SOLUTION: The .mobi file has been replaced with a kindle friendly .ePub file, which uploads perfectly through your preferred process.

Love you all…got yer back.

Special Thanks to Riverfang…who wanted you all to have the book without problems!

As always, thank you for supporting my efforts to entertain you. It truly is the best job in the world.

…and season two is almost already to be recorded!

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I didn’t KNOW today was MONDAY.

…this is what I get for trying to work ahead, hoping to give myself a break.

I scheduled two speed drawings on the same day.

I lost the TTRPG files…which, well, was over 60,000 words.

Then I got the audiobook all set up and went to save it…

…and pushed the wrong buttons. Published it instead.

Welllll, poo.

Might as well offer this to everyone, then…because you deserve access before the public finds it.

Subscribers to Life of Fiction can get a 25% discount. Use the code: tellafriend

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The cover has taken form…and it’s beeYOOteefull.

…am I bias? Of course I am. Why would I NOT be bias?

Plus, hey, I asked for feedback all week long and I GOT it, all week long.

These are the results of concerted efforts, unified in awesomeness.

Remember where we started?

Okay…this last week has been AMAAAAAZING, and this was the basic doodle idea I started from. The general plan for the book cover helped me stay on track.

The Cover - staying with the Comic Book Style

I spent a LOT of time drawing, as you can see below.

The final result was this, below….though this isn’t the final cover. There’s work on the back of the cover, blurbs to be written and also all the ISBN info to be organized….but this is close. The feel is there.

That’s all I have for you today. What do you think?

Any suggestions?

Any comments?

…I’d love to hear them all and discuss your thoughts =)

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The first season is complete. We need a Cover.

…and I’d like to get your input! That’s one of the fun things about having you here. I have the advantage of more than one brain.

More than one brain - more than one perspective, but lucky for you, only one of us is responsible and accountable if the idea doesn’t work out.

“Oh no, Jaime…that was your idea. I just suggested the change. You never HAD to make it. That’s on you.”

Still worth the risk. So don’t hold back, okay?

Here’s the main idea…

The base of the book cover should have a similar theme, but not the same. Something I can use over and over again, throughout the series. I’ve been thinking about the Dens…and how each of the seven represents a different aspect of the Wild Lands.

Underling Dens:

• Crumblers have mountains

• Stickies have bugs

• Growlers have a mouse

• Droppers have birds

• Leafers have a leaf

• Skimmers have a boat

• and Watchers have an eye

Each of those symbols could be used as a faded design, while the base layer could be an element. This book would involve Crumblers, so I’d try to find a rock/stone texture.

These books will be smaller, early reader type books, so I’m thinking of a 5”x8“ size.

The Cover - Comic Book Style

I know I’ve mentioned this before, but I’ve had many suggest to make the art more realistic, more painted, etc….but that’s just not me. That isn’t my style, and even if that’s not the norm, this (the cover) has to reflect who I am at least to a small degree.

I’m a cartoonist. I make cartoonist projects. I write for kids.

That’s all I have for you today. What do you think?

Any suggestions?

Any comments?

…I’d love to hear them all and discuss your thoughts =)

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Ro and Ru are caught between a growing Darkness and the Island itself, trying to stop it.
When the Island asks for help, they panic.
What can children do to save the Wild Lands?
…especially when they're…

Read more

Ro and Ru are caught between a growing Darkness and the Island itself, trying to stop it.
When the Island asks for help, they panic.
What can children do to save the Wild Lands?
…especially when they're…

Read more

Ro and Ru are caught between a growing Darkness and the Island itself, trying to stop it.
When the Island asks for help, they panic.
What can children do to save the Wild Lands?
…especially when they're…

Read more

Ro and Ru are caught between a growing Darkness and the Island itself, trying to stop it.
When the Island asks for help, they panic.
What can children do to save the Wild Lands?
…especially when they're…

Read more