I’ve always loved reading aloud, and being read to. As part of my own writing process, I read and record chapters, mostly to feel out how the writing is working, and to judge the overall flow of words. After sharing these chapters with my husband and best friend, and judging their reactions, I decided it would be worth my while to put something together for listeners.
Hey, it’s the Internet Age, right? Moreso now than ever, writers have the ability to tap in to an amazing amount of potential readers. Whereas some writers seem afraid of this, I am not. In fact, I want to share–not just my work, but my process–with you. There’s something to be said about the transparency of the writing process, I think.
Much of my inspiration, as I’ve mentioned before, comes from the Internet. I discovered the entire genre of steampunk writing online; I have researched Victorian fashion; I have delved archives of photographs dating from the 1880s; I have scoured Wikipedia! What’s come out in the end, between my imagination and my research, is a hybrid of historical and fantasy steampunk. It’s part chivalric romance, part mystery novel, part fantasy epic, too.
So what am I getting to, exactly? Essentially, I’m working to create connections–bring people together who love steampunk, and love good stories more than anything. Just yesterday I was trolling around Brass Goggles again, and was absolutely inspired by a piece of artwork that just screamed, “Put me in the book!” So I will.
What I’m saying is: Join me on my journey. Listen, comment, learn, advise. This is not a finished, polished work yet. This is my fist finished draft.
Our story starts in the sleepy little town of Vell, in the Territories… here we meet Cora Grey, a girl just discovering her heart, and her own capabilities.
Alderpod #2 – Chapter One: Cora Grey
And in case you missed it:
The Aldersgate Cycle 
April 23, 2008 at 9:09 pm
It’s so interesting hearing this read aloud, but also hearing the changes from the draft I’m reading. The pace has changed, There is a lot more dialog, which is important for character development, and I’m getting a much better sense of Vell in this first chapter. There are all good things.
Can’t wait to hear more!
April 24, 2008 at 2:52 am
Glad you enjoyed!
July 29, 2009 at 4:19 am
So far I have just listened to the Prologue. I must say however, that if that is any indication of the writing in the rest of the story, I am very excited to hear it. I am down loading them onto my MP3 player to listen at work. You have an excellent sense of pace and a voice that rivals those of professional readers. Well done!
July 29, 2009 at 6:29 pm
@Aerycks Excellent! So glad you’re enjoying it so far, even just at the beginning. I always hoped that the Prologue would be enough of a teaser. Let me know how you find the rest of the podcast!