By Gail Waterhouse
It is an exciting, and slightly nerve-wracking, time.
Since starting to write my first novel, a year ago, things have moved forward in a way that feels both real and significant. Blood Becoming: Halvyn Dawn is now being hybrid published, which means the story is no longer waiting in the background. It is on its way to readers, and that shift has changed everything.
I will admit, patience is still something I am working on. If it were up to me, the book would already be out in the world with a launch, an audiobook, and a full set of accompanying pieces. But I understand the process now, and I am focusing on what I can control rather than what I cannot.
My attention has firmly moved to Book Two, Blood Becoming: The Veil Between Blood and Beast.
This is where the story deepens. The stakes are higher, the threads are more complex, and the characters are far less willing to behave. Writing the second book alongside the publishing process has helped me stay focused. It keeps me connected to the reason I started writing in the first place, which is to explore ideas, build tension, and follow characters into places that are not always comfortable.
At the same time, I have been developing this website into a proper home for the series. It is a space where I can share updates, insights, and the thinking behind the work. Alongside that, I have started to build a presence on BookTok, Instagram and Facebook. Not simply to promote the book, but to connect with readers who are drawn to darker, more grounded thrillers with a speculative edge.
I spent a long time weighing up traditional and self-publishing. Choosing the hybrid route feels like the right decision for me. It allows me to retain creative control while also working with experienced professionals to bring the book to market across print, E-book and audiobook formats.
The aim has always been straightforward.
I want this story in readers’ hands.
Everything I am doing now is building towards that. Writing, refining, preparing, and gradually creating momentum for what comes next.
Thank you for following along. The journey is moving forward, and I am ready for it.
Best wishes,
Gail