First of all, I learned to have a bit more respect for group work! 60 heads really are better than one. The consensus of the group has never led me astray. These readers were invaluable when it came time to make a decision, do a reality check, or get a fresh point of view.

Secondly, I discovered the power in the combined enthusiasm of a bunch of imaginative people working towards the same goal. I was so much more motivated to do my best when other people cared.

And lastly, I had a long-held belief confirmed: that there is nothing more rewarding than creating an imaginary world and having others enjoy it as much as you do.

So, one question remains: will Bloodchained be a truly great book that does justice to the efforts of all those who took part in its creation? Well, only by reading it will you determine that, but in the interim, all I can do is share the synopsis:

Bloodchained is the story of Grace Gilder and her brother Sebastian, who run an elegant inn in the city of Audacacia, home of the famous Temple of Love. Their inn hosts pilgrims journeying to petition the power of the Temple to intervene in matters of the heart. It's also the tale of Finn Equain, an enigmatic gentleman who harbors a secret and unhealthy obsession with the Roicans, the legendary race of blood-drinking immortals. By the time Grace and Finn's paths cross, powers beyond their control are at play. Figuring into their fates are two more mysterious characters: the delightfully charming Liam and his shy but ravishing sister Nessa. The fates of these five will be decided by the ultimate conflict between supernatural powers of lust and loyalty, desire and devotion.

If you care to read further, a sample chapter is here: www.dianalaurence.com/bcexcerpt.html

My personal, highly objective opinion (LOL) of this book is that it is my best work to date. The plot is a page-turner that all the readers have found absolutely gripping. The characters are powerful and compelling. And one thing's for sure, I've edited the heck out of it and my professional editor hasn't even given me her corrections yet! In other words, I'm working to make the language as smooth as cream and as polished as marble. And the sex ain't bad either. :-)

But I can brag about Bloodchained because I had a lot of help, and the Partners deserve tons of praise for all they did to make this book a unique read. Interested to find out for yourself how we did? The book comes out in late September from Living Beyond Reality Press, in trade paperback, pdf, lit and Mobipocket formats. If you want to be notified when it's available, just email me and I'll send you the word!

Now I'm just waiting to see if I'll get to write that sequel. Cross your fingers! And thanks for reading my tale of the one-of-a-kind book that is Bloodchained.

--Diana Laurence

Link to part 6