I’ve never met C.S. Boyack, but we connected on the Story Empire site, and I now think of him as a friend. Since I like him so much, I’ve read some of his books and left reviews for them. He’s not my usual read, and maybe that’s why I enjoy his work so much. Speculative fiction’s unusual for me with lots of flair and imagination. I didn’t start Lizzie and the Hat at the beginning of the series, but once I started reading it, I’ve read every new one that’s come out. They’re short and fun. My absolute favorite book he’s written is still Serang, but he knows that:) I really enjoyed the Lanternfish series. For a quick read over a weekend, though, it’s hard to beat Lizzie. And it just so happens, Craig just published a brand new book in the series, so I invited him here to tell you about it. Take it away, Craig!
Thanks for lending me your space today, Judy. You know Entertaining Stories is always available when you need a place to share.
I’m here to talk about my newest book, but you can get most of what you need from the blurb and cover. I like to keep each post original, and want to talk about some of the gyrations in writing an ongoing series.
Years ago a few friends twisted my arm into trying series work. All of my efforts had been solo titles up to that point. I decided if I was doing it, I wanted to try one of each. I wrote and published a classic trilogy, which is different than The Hat Series. The Hat is what we’re talking about today.
I wanted this series to consist of multiple volumes involving the same setting and main characters, and to have each story stand-alone. I don’t want anyone to shy away because they haven’t read the entire series. There is no prerequisite reading here.
This kind of series poses some problems that it are worth keeping in mind. I can have smaller character arcs, but no happily ever after type endings. I need to preserve Lizzie and the hat for future adventures. This means Lizzie can’t really age, or even raise a family to some degree. I’m sure there’s a way, but taking the kids to the sitter before going out monster hunting just doesn’t click in my mind.
Each volume needs to have its own satisfying conclusion, but life has to go on. It’s different than a closed loop series. There’s no dancing with the Ewoks and hanging out with Force ghosts in a series like this. It’s a fun way to write, and I like the way it challenges me.
I don’t have any shortage of ideas for this series and see it going on for a long time. It’s the Halloween season, and Lizzie and the hat are back with a new adventure. Grab a pumpkin beer and settle in for an afternoon of dark humor, monsters, and fun.
Cover Blurb:
Something evil is after the hat. The ageless enemies have battled many times, but this time Lizzie is wearing the hat. She’s also up against a ticking clock, in that if she can’t find the maker of her new friend’s medicine he will die.
The Rambler has kidnapped the only witch capable of making Ray’s medicine in an attempt to make the hat sloppy in his efforts. He’s also flooded the streets with deadly minions to impede any progress our heroes might make.
As if that weren’t enough, Lizzie is facing more of life’s struggles, both financially and mechanically. This all goes down in the middle of a huge flood event that she’s ill equipped to handle.
Join Lizzie and the hat as they battle the elements, the paranormal, and a being of pure evil. Lizzie might be battling some personal demons along the way as she and Ray grow closer.
Get your copy here: https://mybook.to/TheMidnightRambler
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Judi Lynn 