Covering My Assets

8/20/2013

I reached a milestone in The Crimson Vault early this morning, so that means I can tear myself away from the grueling editing process to bang out a blog post for you lovely gentlemen and ladies.

I'm aware how the phrase "lovely gentlemen" sounds, but I'm not changing it. Take that, The Man.

As you may have noticed, the lovely scarlet-hued image next to me is, in fact, the cover for Book 2 in the Traveler's Gate Trilogy: The Crimson Vault.

Big thanks to Chelsey and Caitlin Bateson for once again doing a fantastic job on the cover! I'd especially like you to take a look at those doors. I love those doors.

This book, at the moment, is longer than House of Blades by about 40-50 pages. I can't promise that it will survive the remainder of the editing process at that length, but who knows; it might end up longer.

Also, right now, it's looking like I'll upload the book around the 29th, to give me as much editing time as possible before I leave for DragonCon. Don't take that as set in stone, though; it will be available before September, but that's all I can guarantee.

And that's all the news that's fit to print, ladies and gentlemen. Except for one thing, I guess: there are now officially over 16,000 readers like you out there who have experienced House of Blades. Big thanks to you folks for spreading the word!

SPOILER WARNING, BUT NOT REALLY: In a few days, I'm planning on putting the first chapter of The Crimson Vault here on the blog, just to give you guys something to chew on for the next week or so. I'd put it up now, but I want to put a bit more polish on it first.

Good idea? Bad idea? You're insane, Will, get back in your cage, oh no he's got it in his mouth, what has science done, we're all doomed, I can't believe we tried to play God, what sort of abomination is this?

180 Comments

Jonathan

8/20/2013 02:06:39 am

Damn it! I can't tell if it's a good idea or a bad idea :(
On the one hand,I really loved reading the preview chapters from martin.
But they also seemed to make the wait seem longer and harder to bear.

Oh who am I kidding? Give me the damn chapter!!! :)

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 02:18:23 am

That's what I figured you'd say, but there is a key difference between this and a new Song of Ice and Fire book: you're getting the preview chapter a week before release, not a year.

That changes things. Changes a man. Changes the relationship between a man and his beloved pet bear.

Ross

8/20/2013 05:01:21 am

Bears? Where are the bears?

Gabriel R.R.

8/20/2013 02:18:20 am

Thank you for the update can't wait till it is out.

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 02:19:16 am

You know, I meant to say this in response to your last comment, but your last name isn't "Martin," is it? Or, by some weird chance, "Tolkien?"

Because that would be awesome.

Gabriel R.R.

8/20/2013 07:11:08 am

It would be awesome but nope it's not.

Gabriel R.R.

8/20/2013 07:12:54 am

It would be awesome but nope it's not. Just Gabriel R.R. a book worm that no body knows.

Brad R.

8/20/2013 02:29:15 am

I'm in my second year of medical school and love that you're getting this out so quickly. The first book was a great escape, thank you.

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 02:34:05 am

Thanks, Brad! I'm proud to be able to provide you with some entertainment.

Declan

8/20/2013 02:58:53 am

Wünderbar! (I love that word). I literally just came on the site hoping there'd be an update and thankfully there was. Definitely post the chapter, I've been feinding for more like a crack addict. And if you really do have the book finished by the 29th it'd be perfect cuz ill be spending roughly 8 or 9 hours in airports that day. And thank god you're not George rr Martin, one because I've been going crazy waiting for winds of winter to come out and two, because you would've had to kill off like everybody already

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 03:15:31 am

Yeah, about that...

I hope you're not attached to Kai. Or Andra. Or Leah. Or Caela. Or Alin. Or Alin's as-yet-unintroduced sisters. Or Simon.

I've invented this brand-new plot event that's never been done before. I call it the Red Wedding.

Declan

8/20/2013 03:51:27 am

Damn. I knew I shouldn't have said anything. Oh well, at least the bears are still alive

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 04:35:51 am

As a matter of fact, the bears are the new protagonists of Book 3!

Ross

8/20/2013 05:02:51 am

I KNEW IT

Brian S

8/20/2013 07:07:27 pm

Wait a second....

Did you just say you were going to kill a doll?

Helgard

8/21/2013 08:08:46 am

In fact, I am quite attached to Alin's sisters. I am engaged to one of them (can't remember her name, though)...

Ailema

8/21/2013 03:24:08 pm

*struggles to breathe* Please god no, not Kai!

Kelli

8/22/2013 03:28:11 pm

Wait THE BEARS? BOOK 3!
How do you kill the dolls anny way??? Hum...

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:26:18 am

How do you kill a doll? The same way you kill Kai: with an axe.

Am I trolling or am I serious? You don't know. You think I'm probably making things up, but you can't be sure. It's a spiral of lies and deceit!

Ailema

8/23/2013 01:18:31 pm

Now I know what that lurid crimsonness is between those doors… it’s the author’s brain drenched in the bloodbath of all my beloved characters he murders in the book. YOU ARE EVIL

Brian S

8/24/2013 03:08:34 am

You really shouldn't encourage him like that. You never know what he might do. Already I feel like he's on the verge of breaking out with an evil laugh.

IronToBind

8/26/2013 03:50:54 am

No! NO! That's all wrong for this book what you need to do is have Simon and his friends go to the arctic. Then they find a cave. Then Simon eats his friends in a soup. Its literary gold, its okay tho i don't need any honors

8/20/2013 03:00:06 am

That right their is some bodacious cover work. Can't wait for book 2

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 03:17:07 am

Thanks, Al! Honestly? I can't wait either.

...because it means I get to take a break. Writing a book this long in 2-3 months is tiring.

Who knew?

MusicToDazzle

8/26/2013 03:53:14 am

Sanderson? But thats just a guess =)

Brian S

8/20/2013 03:18:59 am

Good idea? Yes
Bad idea? No
You're insane, Will...Can't argue with that
get back in your cage...That would probably be for the best
oh no he's got it in his mouth...Don't worry, it's just his foot.
what has science done...What is it going to do?
we're all doomed...Whats new?
I can't believe we tried to play God...Really?
what sort of abomination is this?....We have decided to call them humans.

For the visually impaired... http://www.deviantart.com/art/Book-Cover-The-Crimson-Vault-393122700

Everyone is way to supportive. Boo at Will. There, I hurt his feelings. Now we will see some results.

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 03:47:28 am

Man, that story ended like an episode of the Twilight Zone.

Also? My delicate artist's feelings are crushed. I'm done with this. I'm done with being a writer. I'm upending my table in disgust and walking away. You want The Crimson Vault? You can't have it, you ungrateful parasites! I'm deleting it from my hard drive, burning my hard copy, and erasing my memories.

LOOK WHAT YOU HAVE DONE, YOU MONSTER

Brian S

8/20/2013 10:14:40 am

Yes, you've been trolled ;) LOL

Impatiently Twitching

8/20/2013 11:42:06 am

Damnit! KILL HIM FOR DELAYING THIS GLORIOUS GIFT OF THE HEAVENS! Feed him his legs!

Jacob

8/20/2013 03:58:39 am

Well thanks to you will I haven't been able to read another book with the same vigor. The constant checking in and waiting for updates on book 2 is an emotional rollercoaster. I can't wait until the release and if you do decide to release a preview that would be torture. Any chance of buying a signed copy?

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 04:41:00 am

I'm sorry if I was responsible for your lack of vigor, Jacob. Why don't you play some BioShock Infinite, get that vigor back?

Signed copy...I don't know how I would sell a signed copy through Amazon, but if you buy a paperback and we ever run into each other, I'd be happy to sign it.

Jacob

8/20/2013 04:47:24 am

Well I've never played this Bioshock you speak, but I do play Borderlands 2, which is badass by the way! I'm just saying when one day your famous and I have a signed copy ill be rolling in the dough! 👍💰

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 04:50:35 am

You know, I have friends who are really into Borderlands 2, but I've never seen the appeal. I own it, but I could only play a couple of hours before I got bored.

Lots of clever humor, though.

Va. W link

8/23/2013 05:02:50 pm

I have a signed copy. And I'm not telling how I got it. Take that you fantasy fiends.

JohnW

8/20/2013 01:52:38 pm

Loss of vigor? Don't they make blue pills for that?

Levin

8/20/2013 04:06:50 am

I'm sorry but revealing a few chapters over the next few days is a terrible idea.

Put those chapters online NOW.

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 04:39:13 am

I refuse! HOW NOW, BROWN COW?

Jim

8/20/2013 04:23:17 am

Is there cussing? I hope there is. People getting their heads chopped off but they can't say *&$% to mark the occasion.

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 04:36:30 am

Well, of course they can't. They don't have any heads.

JohnW

8/20/2013 01:53:57 pm

Well, their lips could still move, and if you could read lips, then you would know what they were saying.

Will M

8/20/2013 04:24:29 am

Very cool cover. I've be stalking the site hoping for an update. Thanks for the update.

From what I understand, writing a book is hard work. Congratulations on getting a book out this fast.

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 04:37:02 am

Thanks, Will! And congratulations on your classy name, by the way.

Jeffery

8/20/2013 05:31:03 am

Omg hurry up already! Ever since reading the first one I have been dying for more! I literally check amazon on a daily basis hoping its been released. I can't wait to read the first chapter next week!

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 11:13:10 am

Thanks, Jeffery! It won't be long now :)

G3n3r1c Reader

8/20/2013 05:50:40 am

Thanks for the update and specific date. Now I don't have to check amazon every day for the update :). (what am I going to spend my time on now :( ) .

The cover looks amazing and I can't wait to see the first chapter. Best of luck and keep doing your thing.

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 11:11:50 am

Thanks! I suggest you spend your time ending world hunger and helping those in poverty. Maybe develop some new humanitarian technology.

That was how I spent my time before I decided to write fantasy novels instead.

Stephen Stump

8/20/2013 11:23:45 am

Humanity is over rated; best to focus on fantasy novels...and bears -- love me some bears ;p

FireToBind

8/26/2013 03:59:20 am

I'VE always wanted a space ship or a hover car or a Gundam maybe while waiting you could get to work on that stuff

Will Wight link

8/26/2013 04:13:49 am

Shouldn't it be fire to "blind," not "bind"?

Saul

8/20/2013 09:50:41 am

I'm hoping for the 29th, since I have a nice long plane ride the 30th. But you know, no big deal - I could always make smalltalk with strangers.

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 11:10:48 am

I swear to you, I will do all that I can to prevent you from being forced to socialize.

No one should be in that position. No one.

Brad R

8/20/2013 10:24:31 am

While we wait for Will to finish the second book, anyone want to play this this game of literary mortal kombat? I know we only have one book to base the characters and their abilities on, but we can always extrapolate.

Alin vs Rand al'Thor
Indirial vs Drizzt Do'Urden
Simon vs Azoth
Azura vs the Buster Sword
Andra vs Arya Stark

Will Wight link

8/20/2013 11:15:44 am

That looks like a blast! Not to spoil anything, though, but this would be a lot easier to do after Crimson Vault.

And also, Memory of Light Rand would turn House of Blades Alin inside out; fate itself bends around him, and he has the power to raise a volcano out of the earth.

Brian S

8/20/2013 07:03:10 pm

Someone should lend Rand a hand anyway. He could use an extra.

Brad R

8/21/2013 12:42:36 am

I see what you did there

CourageToStrengthen

8/26/2013 04:05:50 am

The pattern has always bent around Rand kid, hes been ta'veren since the beginning. But personally i think we should let it happen maybe he could kill Alin for us, cuse really who likes him anyway?

Jacob

8/21/2013 05:47:07 am

Rand also has 3 hot ladies and is just Badass. But no one is better than Drizzt Do'Urden, no sir!

Liam

8/23/2013 08:33:05 pm

Rand kinda is emotionally unstable in so many ways... So ya, still a boss, less Alin and more like the Joker from dark knight

Kelli

8/22/2013 03:44:26 pm

Wait Azoth from the Night Angles Trilogy right?
If so it world depend on the inverment

Brian K

8/20/2013 12:30:48 pm

Congrats on the 16k readers :) well deserved. Looking forward to the release of "The Crimson Vault"! I wont read the first chapter when you post it because that will make the suspense completely unbearable and I will loose what little sanity I possess. Either way, thank you for all the work you have put into these books. You have a fan for life

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:28:08 am

Thanks, Brian! I'm glad you enjoyed the book.

On another note: is it me, or does it seem like there are a lot of Brians around here?

Liam

8/23/2013 08:35:02 pm

Your right, it's becoming stranger and stranger...( quote from Sheldon, the everlasting immortal genius

Brian K

8/26/2013 09:15:07 am

I think it is a Brian thing. We are taking over the world and creating a true Utopia!!!! Or thats just the voices in my head talking, either works. If it does happen I call Ireland. Hmm perhaps the Brians and the Wills should for alliance of Co-world domination.

Brian C

8/26/2013 12:15:57 pm

Totally down for that world domination thing. I'll take Germany.

Jeremy P

8/20/2013 05:28:01 pm

This is the first book in a year I was able to finish...let alone leaving me jonesing for more. I had a traumatic brain injury a year ago.....and just being able focus is amazing. Thank you......now what to do with the rest of this month

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:29:38 am

Man, I'm glad you enjoyed it. And I hope you continue to recover!

Also, I'm using this as a blurb for my book: "House of Blades heals brain injuries!" You heard it here first, folks!

VW link

8/23/2013 05:16:27 pm

If you read closely, it is also helping two young ladies get through medical school and law school.

Disclaimer: I know they are ladies, but I don't know they are young. If you are closer to my age, I am impressed. I know many a person who were helped through professional school reading books like this.

Kudos Will! You never know who's life you may touch.

Jim

8/20/2013 08:49:29 pm

Not to be obnoxious but that looks like a nasty gaping vag behind that door. Best cover ever!!

JohnW

8/21/2013 04:31:47 am

They don't call it the gates of hell for nothing!

Brian S

8/21/2013 10:06:07 am

Check out the cover on the artists site posted in my earlier post. The image is bigger so you can pick out more details. The image Will posted is reduced to about 30% of the actual size. He did this just to annoy me I'm sure.

Marcos

8/21/2013 10:52:42 am

My wife and I both agree. Cool. cover art, but when you look at it full size on the artist website, it's definitely very vaginal(word?).

Will Wight link

8/21/2013 03:05:05 pm

It will pair well with the cover for Book 3: The Mushroom Tower.

Jim

8/23/2013 01:22:09 am

Heh...didn't notice that

Monica

8/27/2013 06:44:22 pm

Thank god I'm not the only one. I felt like such an awful person when my first thought was "...giant vagina...? CANNOT UNSEE!"

I swear, once you've seen genitals in something, it's impossible to see it as anything else. (unfortunate wording is unfortunate)

J Moore

8/20/2013 11:02:12 pm

It's a fine cover, but yeah that middle part does look like, well something...

Have you decided on a price for the Ebook?

Devin

8/21/2013 06:53:22 am

I don't speak for him. But it should be $2.99 again.

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:31:01 am

I speak for him. $2.99

I can't guarantee that all my books will be $2.99 for the rest of my life, but I'm definitely not going to do something like jack the price up in the middle of a series. That would be dastardly and cruel.

IronToBind

8/26/2013 04:08:16 am

Yes that, but also genius

Harlequin

8/21/2013 02:46:00 am

Glad to hear the book is in the final stages of development. Guess I'll keep checking back to see if you did decide to release that First chapter. Though personally i do enjoy devouring a book in one sitting, I have grown used to the necessary wait between releases (thanks to reading manga for years).

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:32:10 am

In the best traditions of manga, The Crimson Vault will be read right to left, and will feature Simon inexplicably running away from the unwanted attentions of 4-6 beautiful young women.

MusicToDazzle

8/26/2013 04:14:44 am

Harem tag? But in any of those done right the feels spike around like episode 6 or 7 when he actually chooses one and the rest like kill them selves.... or something. Fear the yandere feeeeeeeeeear

Non

8/21/2013 06:55:10 am

Great, now I must check hourly instead of daily.

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:32:45 am

Well, I'm not releasing it this hour. Maybe in an hour and a half...

Jessica

8/21/2013 07:45:33 am

I'm a single mom so I don't get a lot of down time but I loved and devoured "House of Blades." I enjoyed that it was a completely new concept and not the run of the mill vampire stuff I see everywhere these days. I was a little devastated when Aug 10th came and went, but consoled myself that you'll use that time to make another great book and not just rush through to get it out. I vote post the chapter to give me something to chew on while I await your big unveiling. :)

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:34:49 am

Fun bit of trivia: this book was actually fairly different in its first draft. It initially starred Leah as a high school girl with a limited range of facial expressions falling in love with a vampiric merman from the depths of the sea. They had to band together to save their world from the inevitable pollution of the ocean, all the while fighting their forbidden feelings for one another.

It changed a lot in revision.

Devin

8/23/2013 02:35:40 am

So much hate, it burns inside.

Brian S

8/23/2013 03:10:19 am

Should have stuck with the original concept, way cooler! I mean, who has vampiric mermen? You could have named him Leach.

I will say you'd have gotten a stronger audience if you altered it slightly and had them fighting against global warming and the melting ice caps. Look at all the money that has been made in the cinema on that one, It's pure gold, suckers buy it every time. Throw in a comet exploding above Russia and adding a layer of magical dust to the atmosphere, and you've got a nebula waiting to happen.

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 09:24:22 am

Man, you're right. This idea is an untapped gold mine. SOMEONE should write this story.

Devin.

Penelope

8/21/2013 02:08:44 pm

Oh, for the love of Pete! Stop blogging and edit! You don't actually need to eat, do you? I am an old lady and would like to see this trilogy through. Good story by the way....

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:35:40 am

A young, healthy woman like you? Perish the thought!

And of course I don't need to eat. I simply insert more plutonium rods into my reactor core for sustenance.

Harlequin

8/25/2013 06:01:06 am

Hmm. Will your comment made me think of another series of novels I have been following. Have you heard of the novel "Admiral Who?"

Ailema

8/21/2013 03:19:45 pm

I am controlling myself admirably and I will not nag, beg, cajole or threaten this fine author to hurry up with Book 2. Good things come to those who wait (with barely leashed patience).

Well, maybe I will beg a little. More Kai, please?

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:36:06 am

Your wish is my command.

Ailema

8/23/2013 01:02:52 pm

YES

Peter link

8/22/2013 04:27:43 am

Why cant you put it up for pre order? Id much rather have it auto delivered the moment its avaliable for consumption.

Gabriel

8/22/2013 06:14:51 am

agreed!

Devin

8/22/2013 07:15:52 am

He can't setup a pre-order option because he self-publishes his books. Amazon just doesn't have an option for it outside of traditionally published books yet.

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:38:34 am

This mysterious "Devin" character is correct. If Amazon allowed me to put my books up for pre-order, I would absolutely do that.

Devin

8/23/2013 02:39:43 am

I go by many names. Names that take hold in the furthest reaches of your subconscious, whispering sweet, dastardly nothing's until you forego your grasp of sanity. Ending with your inevitable release of fantasy fiction that entails creatures or darker origins, like vampiric mermaids! Bwhahahahaha!

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 09:28:47 am

Vampiric mermaids? That's a story idea I could really...sink my teeth into.

Eh? Eh? Eeeeehhh?

Amarygma

8/22/2013 05:19:13 am

Ok, I didnt want to be the first to comment on the vaginal nature of the cover-glad I'm not the only oversexed one out there. Loved the book, but did feel by the end everybody was too... matter-of-fact/rational/logical. I'm sure as truths come to light people will become more properly insane/emotional/human again, and I dearly look forward to it. Thanks!

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:39:49 am

I'm not exactly sure if I follow you there, but I can promise that not everyone is rational in Book 2. There is definitely some insanity/overly emotional decision-making going on.

Jim

8/23/2013 02:59:50 am

Along with some nudity/swearing. Unless that's awkward to write.

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 09:25:34 am

Sorry, Jim. Not happening.

Brian S

8/24/2013 07:15:44 am

He just wants to see Caela cussing up a storm in her knickers. That'll teach Simon to change his dolls clothing.

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 09:07:17 am

I honestly did not know that people actually used the word "knickers." I thought it was a Downton Abbey word.

You learn something new every day.

Brian S

8/24/2013 02:04:39 pm

It isn't often you can get away with it, but where undergarments sound risque, the word knickers just gets a smirk. I figured that since this was a blog for a fantasy author, I could probably sneak it in, but I should have known better....and no, people don't use the word risque either....hmmm, what rarely used word can I use next?

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 02:06:28 pm

Quiet, you brazen hussy.

Kade

12/18/2016 03:18:36 pm

Heck no. No nudity or swearing. I do not mind the violence and swearing would not bother me that much, but defintley no nudity. That would just ruin everything.
And yes, this is a teenage boy writing this.

Will link

12/18/2016 03:40:35 pm

This post is three years old, Kade. If you've read Crimson Vault, you know it came without swearing or sexual content. The battle is over!

...not that there ever was a battle, really. I wasn't going to bait-and-switch readers by releasing an age-appropriate first book and then a sequel with sex scenes.

Joseph

8/22/2013 11:28:06 am

I stumbled upon House of Blades last week because it was in my recommended list on my Kindle... Probably one of the best impulse buys I have made on the kindle store. Super excited for the Crimson Vault, and thanks for writing such a great book! (BTW the cover art looks awesome)

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:40:32 am

Thanks, Joseph! I'm glad you enjoyed it, and I hope you have just as much fun with Crimson Vault.

Kelli

8/22/2013 03:56:34 pm

Can't wait for the book I've been checking Amazon daily please post the first chapter online. I'm in between books right now and need something good to read. Awesome book cover

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 01:41:14 am

In between books? Play Terraria.

Hyruler

8/23/2013 06:31:50 am

I love your first work.
Thank you for the gift of your mind's eye.

Will Wight link

8/23/2013 09:26:31 am

No, Link, thank YOU. Your work in Legend of Zelda is my real inspiration.

Hyruler

8/25/2013 10:30:14 am

So few notice 🙀, but truly I'm never alone... That is until I ate that giant owl last week!!!
Can't wait for the sample and have fun editing.

Jim

8/23/2013 02:14:28 pm

I mean...you've got so much "adult" stuff going on in this book, I just think it might spice up the dialogue if there was the occasional curse mixed in. Like in that one scene in House of Blades where Simon's doll first begins to advise him in the fight against the Damascan soldiers, and he dodges the arrows in a spectacular display of gymnastics, the soldiers faces turn pale...that would have been a great time to interject a little breathy "...oh *@#$" into the mix. You know, just so the soldiers have some human-ness about them.

Devin

8/23/2013 04:54:28 pm

I think in this instance the young side of the book counterbalances the adult. It isn't gritty like Mark Lawrence's work or other similar novels, so the cursing for the sake of colorful seasoning can come off as out of place. Besides, the characters of The Travelers Gate series have other ways of cursing, or colorful wording, such as exclamations in reference to the "Maker" or similar verbiage.

Jim

8/24/2013 12:03:14 am

I suppose...but then again it wasn't really pressed/established that these maker references are...bad, y'know? It makes it seem like some of the characters have a stoicism approaching the robotic. Then again I read through the first 70 percent of the book very quickly.

(it's just a little weird to me to have skin splitting open and dismemberment in detail but god forbid some swearing)

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 02:54:00 am

Well, the #1 reason why there's no profanity in the book is because I don't curse. So when I'm writing, I don't imagine the characters cursing.

That's the main reason. Also, I don't see what adding cursing would contribute to the book. And it would feel like a bait-and-switch if I started adding curse words to Book 2 when there weren't any in Book 1.

It's not like I feel like cursing is somehow worse than human sacrifice, slavery, and decapitation, or that the people who read this book would be unavoidably offended by profanity. It's just that I don't curse, so curse words don't make it into the first draft, and I don't believe they would add anything, so they don't make it into revision.

So for now, no curse words in The Traveler's Gate Trilogy. I may change my mind when writing other works in the future--if I'm writing a story set in the real world, for instance--but for now, I've chosen not to include cursing. Let's just say curse words aren't very common in the Damascan culture.

Brian S

8/24/2013 03:20:01 am

Damn you!...okay, just thought we could do that, since like...you know...some of the layers of hell are actual houses and stuff...now where did you put my sample chapter?...And stop cursing!

Shiloh

8/25/2013 11:58:31 am

As a non-cursing reader, I actually appreciate the lack of curse words in the book, since I don't feel it would really add much to the story line. Just sayin'. So thanks, Will! I probably wouldn't have loved your book as much if I had to sift through language like that! So 👍 from here! Also, I know I have said this before, but I can't wait for book #2!!!

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 12:23:35 pm

Thanks, Shiloh! I appreciate the encouragement!

Also, I'll be putting Chapter 1 up tomorrow night.

I'm only saying this here, so only the people who randomly sift through these comments will have any chance of knowing this ahead of time. Take that!

Brian S

8/25/2013 04:24:24 pm

I saw how you snuck that little tidbit in there. Did you post it on the bottom so people would see it? NOOOOO, you hid it practically right smack in the middle of 150 posts. Very sneaky.

CHAPTER ONE WILL BE UP TOMORROW NIGHT EVERYONE!

Quaza

8/26/2013 08:11:04 am

Well it's a good thing I'm creeping your comments, Will.

Kade

12/18/2016 03:21:39 pm

My respect for you as a writer has gone up so much. I'm glad you do not have to rely on sex and swearing to get more readers.

Kade

12/18/2016 03:24:58 pm

I do not think there needs to be swearing. And there defintley should not be any nudity. I do not need to read a story only to have a stupid sex scene ruining the expereince for me.

Seriously, this is why I'm quiting animne. I really love it but the fanservice and sexual hints is so annoying. It ruins the story and I am no longer thinking about the plot.
I'm glad I can get that animne feel with reading Will Wight without the annoying fanservice.

And yes, I am a teenage boy.

Liam

8/23/2013 08:50:16 pm

Having a nervous breakdown, got 1984, Children of the mind, King rat from the library, but don't want to start one for fear that I will have to stop reading them to read Crimson Vaul... So many choices... Depression or Adventure? Unknown or known series? I think I might require some medical attention. FYI there overdue next weekend...

Anyway, nice cover, love the face on the door, looks a bit like the tree from lord of the rings... No one holds it against you that it comes out on a Thursday, right before all the traditional religious days. Merman vampire? Living off the sulphur vent at the bottom of the ocean? Only meeting on overcast days of the new moon, so that the prom of sunlight being reflected by the moon is addressed, and the star light also? Your pure gold will, pure gold

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 02:57:29 am

The stars have aligned, and the creatures that whisper to me from beyond the great Void of space have told me "SOON, WILL. YOU MUST RELEASE THE VAULT SOON."

I'm not pure gold, actually, though that's a common misconception. I am, in fact, 92% gold, 5% electrum, 2% carbon, and 1% trace elements.

JohnW

8/25/2013 07:07:21 am

electrum is an alloy (of gold and silver) -- not an element -- so your elemental breakdown needs some editing...

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 07:31:55 am

Believe it or not, I did that on purpose. It's a breakdown of materials, not elements; I chose electrum BECAUSE it's an alloy of gold, so that the actual gold content would be a little higher than 92%. Kind of like how I could have said X% water if there was any actual water in my mechanical body. I wouldn't have said hydrogen and oxygen, I would have said water.

Besides, everybody knows that a real elemental breakdown would just be 70% water, 22% earth, 6% wind, and 2% fire.

Brian S

8/25/2013 12:22:15 pm

Some people would have a larger percentage of wind than others.

mike

8/26/2013 11:40:39 am

I agree with Brian.... particularly those whose first name is Will and last name happens to be Wright

Will Wight link

8/26/2013 11:57:53 am

So, mike, are you talking about the designer of SimCity, or...

mike

8/26/2013 12:02:17 pm

Oh Sim City of course! Oh how silly of you to think otherwise Will!

Will Wight link

8/26/2013 12:03:22 pm

At the risk of over-explaining the joke, Will Wright isn't my name. My last name is Wight.

Will Wright is the game designer responsible for The Sims, SimCity, and Spore, among other things.

mike

8/27/2013 02:07:13 am

Yes I did see that right after I wrote it. Honestly, I think I'm losing my mind. And I just tried to play it off

Bryce

8/24/2013 04:14:29 am

I like the cover. It sets a nice theme for the book. Will Simon/Alin actually go in the vault? Never mind don't tell me. Also, how will the the sample chapter come out? On Amazon or on your website? Cuz i'd be pretty upset if I missed it coming out cuz I don't where to look. I apologize if you already answered this question in an earlier blog comment.

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 09:09:59 am

The 100% honest answer:

[SPOILER] does go into the [SPOILER] to steal [SPOILER]'s [SPOILER], but [SPOILER], of course, doesn't. That wouldn't make any sense.

The chapter will come out here, on this blog, in the next two days or so.

Johannes

8/24/2013 06:58:17 am

First of all, sry for my bad English, I am from Austria and learned it in school of course, but well, that didn't quite work out.

Ok now to the business on hand. I LOVE YOUR WORK. You are a god, i already erected a temple for your honor (the blood sacrifices are halfway through btw). But jokes aside, you are a great writer, one of the best newcomer this year (only one can keep up to you, anthony ryan). I loved how your story worked out, there are a few issues, but it's your first book, so that is no big deal and getting a book for a few bucks is incredible, to get THAT book is incredible.

Also, I would like to thank you for your blogwork here, there are not many authors, who keep smth like that up, and in a witty way.

I would like to say much more, but i fell kind of awkward when I'm writing English so i will cut it short. I am looking forward to your next book (which will be bought asap) and yes, the cover looks like a vag ^^

So that's my post, you are allowd to reply, but afterwards you have to go back in your cage and do some work.

Yours,
Johannes (in English that would be John)

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 09:08:34 am

Thanks, Johannes! I'm glad you enjoyed it, and I hope you enjoy Crimson Vault just as much.

But for real, though, you'd better hurry up and finish those sacrifices. I can only finish this book if I have enough...fuel.

Brian S

8/24/2013 02:08:46 pm

Johannes, don't sacrifice the pretty ones, they intimidate him.

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 02:11:39 pm

I'm not sure what that was in reference to, Brian, but I resent the implication that I am intimidated by sacrifices of any kind. I demand satisfaction, good sir.

Brian S

8/25/2013 03:04:00 am

Jovan Satisfaction Cologne by Jovan Men's EDT Spray 1.7 oz $11.00

Really? You want this stuff? Do you really think it will help?

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 03:34:17 am

If I'm going to duel you, I want to smell my best.

Lawndart

8/24/2013 11:52:56 am

I know it's simply not feasible to throw up ETA updates daily but that doesn't make it easy to ignore the impulse to anyway. Loved your book and hope the editing process is in full go-mode. I'm like a junky with the kind of material you've introduced, we've seen Valinhall, Elysia, and a smidge of Naraka and Lirial. But damn it man I need more! In the spirit of this addiction, i'm curious as to whether we'll get in depth views of each realm. I wouldn't be surprised at all if that's not something you would really want to answer with any sort of specifics, but I JUST WANT TO KNOW THE INS AND OUTS AND LIMITATIONS OF THESE ELEMENTS!

Anyways, amazing ticker you got there between those ears, your world is astounding. I have a meltdown of like bieber-fan proportions thinking about the possibilities.

Thanks for the hardwork you've thrown at getting the new material to us and i'm looking forward to Crimson Vault!

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 02:02:23 pm

Thanks, Lawndart! I have pried myself away from the editing table solely to answer your questions.

One of the things I've been considering--if I can work out the logistics--is releasing a short story every few weeks between The Crimson Vault and City of Light (Book 3). They would be set in the Traveler's Gate universe, but would (for the most part) not feature Simon, Alin, or Leah. I'd like to use them to explore some of the more obscure Territories that we don't get to see much of, and to look at the history of Damasca, Valinhall, etc.

And before you ask, no, this would not delay the release of City of Light. I'm already planning to take longer on Book 3 than I did on Book 2--if I didn't, I would likely spontaneously combust--and short stories don't take me long anyway. I would just run them off quickly to give you guys something to read.

I've been looking into Kindle Serials as a possible delivery mechanism. That way you could pay a couple bucks and get a short story collection delivered one at a time straight to your Kindle.

What do you think?

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 02:04:43 pm

To clarify: this is to satisfy people like you, who seem to want more world-building details than I can easily include in the trilogy. I thought this would be a neat way to provide details for people who want them, while those who don't want to know how the old Elysian Travelers fell and the Kingdom of Damasca was formed, for instance, can just stick with the trilogy.

Brian S

8/24/2013 02:13:42 pm

I'd buy them. Just out of curiosity, is there a house called Valhalla? Cause that would be cool, and they would probably have mead.

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 02:16:52 pm

It's right next door to Valinhall, actually. Occasionally Odin comes over for some roast boar, or Kai hops over to Valhalla to give the Einherjar lessons in swordsmanship. It's a very friendly relationship.

Ailema

8/25/2013 02:46:54 am

I would snap those up too. Also, what would be cool are stories about the other members of the Dragon Army, their adventures or misadventures, particularly Valin and Kai. Not sure if you already had anything like that planned.

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 05:01:08 am

I'd really like to write a Dragon Army novella. Two novellas, actually: Valin's story and Kai's story.

Not sure when I would do that, but I'd enjoy it.

Harlequin

8/25/2013 06:20:20 am

Hmm. I really like that idea. You laid the foundation for some epic world building in Book 1. If you do write some shorts to flesh it out a bit, I would totally buy them.
On that note, I noticed in Book 1 when Alin and his Enoshian lapdog were traveling through Naraka mention was made to human native tribes? Would be interesting for a story or two to explore life in human settlements in the territories.
Read your post about the eta on chapter 1. Cravings have commenced, I will have to check back later today or tomorrow I guess.

Ailema

8/25/2013 02:17:16 pm

A novella about Kai!! WOW!

I also have joined the ranks of the blog-stalkers. I know that the 29th is days away but it stretches ahead of me like one of those psychedelic tunnels in the Orgrith Cave. I'm re-reading parts of the book and I've got this question that has been burning in my mind. Are we going to learn more about those adorable advisors, and will we finally know the names of ALL 50 dolls???

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 02:56:26 pm

You won't learn the names of all the dolls--not in Book 2, at least--but you will meet several more.

There's even a couple of scenes where all the dolls talk together, each one trying to speak louder than the others. I enjoyed writing those.

mike

8/24/2013 02:15:58 pm

Hey Will, I have a question for you... that I might already have the answer to. I know that Valinhall travelers don't summon forces out of their bodies to defeat their enemies as explained by the Eldest (or was it someone else?) But I was wondering if Simon may have the power of an element eventually? Like water,fire,air, or earth. You know, those cheesy things.

Will Wight link

8/24/2013 02:20:36 pm

I may change my mind on this, but at the moment, no. I'm saving elemental control for another magic system.

Not that some of the Territories aren't already pretty elemental--Helgard's got ice, Naraka has fire, Ornheim's pretty much entirely earth, etc.--but I try to break away from the usual elemental powers when I can. And Simon won't get an elemental power, no.

...of course, don't take anything I say here as 100% confirmed. I reserve the right to have an awesome idea and change my mind. For now, though, no.

mike

8/24/2013 11:00:14 pm

Okay because I believe if he would again those type if powers it would not exactly fit in with the running of the story, although I'm pretty sure you could fit somewhere. Also, I don't like my hero's to be all powerful jerks. To many books give the hero way to many abilities and overpowering. I like Simon being the underdog. You're never sure what's going to happen

G3n3r1c Reader

8/24/2013 03:43:44 pm

Are you still going to put out the 1st chapter on the blog? Also the 29th release date still happening. (Just a concerned reader).

Also do Valinhall travelers have some kind of impunity against the summonings of other travelers? Like when Indirial was able to withstand the attack from the traveler who drove Simon's mother mad.

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 01:51:33 am

Once you read Chapter 1, you're going to laugh.

Steve

8/25/2013 05:21:50 am

I just finished House of Blades. Very good book, definitely worth the money. Quick question to Will or anyone who knows the answer. The Elder said that there hasn't been any new travellers to Valinhall for a long time and was happy that Simon got 7 people there, simply by opening a gate and getting them through. If it was that simple, why didn't the other Dragon Army people like Kai do it more often?

Harlequin

8/25/2013 06:34:34 am

Nothing is as simple as you're making it seem, Steve. Kai and the other remaining members of the Dragon Army probably would want to restrict excess only to individuals whos' ideals and values are similar to their own. They would not just give excess to the house away to anyone. They'd want control over the house to remain with the DragonArmy, and not fall into the hands of someone whos goals differ from their own. It would create different factions, competing interests if you will amongst the travelers of Valinhall.

Interestingly by letting Simon into the fold it somewhat opened the floodgates and now there is a least 1 traveler of Valinhall who is not DragonArmy + her family. It will be interesting to see how this develops continuing on.

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 07:16:40 am

Good question! There are actually two answers to that. First:

In the past, Dragon Army members have tried to bring other people into Valinhall, but they usually die. That's one of the reasons why Chaka and the Nye went easy on the Agnos family; they realized that they're basically scaring away new recruits.

Two: there are only four remaining Valinhall Travelers from the original Dragon Army, and none of them particularly want to create more Travelers.

Indirial has been ordered by the King not to train anymore Valinhall Travelers. He also believes it's not his responsibility to recruit people, and he's got a full-time job as Overlord. Plus, he doesn't trust the Eldest.

Denner has terrible memories associated with the Dragon Army, and frankly believes that kids would be better off NOT being trained as Valinhall Travelers. And he's terrified of the Eldest.

Kai is a crazy, reclusive loner who only finally decided to take a student after years of isolation and persuasion by his dolls. He hates the Eldest.

Kathrin wants nothing more than for the Dragon Army to die off and be forgotten. She tried to take a disciple once, but the girl died during a training accident. She would cut off her own arm if it meant screwing over the Eldest.

Oh, right, you haven't heard of Kathrin yet. BOOK TWO.

So basically they could have taken new disciples at any time, but they don't want to. Also, most people would have left. The Eldest is so happy because--due to certain circumstances in the lives of the Agnos family, which will be explored in slightly more detail--they actually stayed. Usually, normal people either get freaked out and leave or get killed challenging a room.

So there you go.

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 07:17:47 am

EDIT: that should be "any more Valinhall Travelers," not "anymore." I can't edit posts, and I'm too lazy to delete and re-post.

Rhys

9/11/2013 04:52:10 pm

Will, why does Chaka hate Simon? Surely he's proved himself by now( at least after the Crimson vault with the mask and all).

mike

8/25/2013 12:31:37 pm

Your blog takes up a lot of my time Will, not sure if that's a good or bad thing yet but it will be soon discovered when I present the CEO of my company a presentation tomorrow. Lol any way, I have another question. I remember that Kai had said he was only borrowing Azura for a pleasant while will we learn more of what he meant or Will it be just shot scratched of that he was crazy and has no clue what he's talking about

mike

8/25/2013 12:34:15 pm

And sorry, that has some of the worst grammar I have ever seen

Will Wight link

8/25/2013 12:35:42 pm

That will be explained. That will be explained fairly early in the book, as a matter of fact.

And you should subliminally influence your CEO to buy House of Blades. Just insert pictures of the cover in between each of your PowerPoint slides, then flip by them as quickly as you can.

He'll have it on his iPhone before he even knows what happened.

mike

8/26/2013 07:01:32 am

He has actually already read it! I can't believe the old, boring, husk of a person like that could have such an amazing taste in literature. Lol but he read your book with a little prompting from me and now you have a huge fan! And I have actually done that once before, but with my co-workers. You have more than one fan at my work place. And alright I'll be looking for the explanation

JohnW

8/26/2013 09:05:20 am

My guess is that Kai's original sword was taken by someone, and he plans to get it back. Indirial, maybe?

mike

8/26/2013 11:59:38 am

That's what I originally thought. But then again the Eldest said that some swords were being kept somewhere to prevent them from returning to Valinhall. So maybe he's going to try to find/get back his sword.... and I know you're taking pleasure in watching me struggling for answers here Will. Not nice of you at all

G3n3r1c Reader

8/26/2013 05:15:42 am

Not to be a nag or anything (I swear that's not what i'm about) but is the 1st chapter still going to be put online?

Will Wight link

8/26/2013 09:25:26 am

Yes.

http://www.willwight.com/1/post/2013/08/the-crimson-vault-chapter-1.html

Brian S

8/26/2013 05:47:43 am

Also, I'll be putting Chapter 1 up tomorrow night. (Will Wight 8/25/2013 10:23 Pm)

Apparently Will likes Easter Eggs, because he hid this little gem in the center of the blog. So chapter one should be released tonight.

Amazing

8/26/2013 10:05:11 am

I can't wait for the 29th: 3 more days, or at the most, 5 more days till september

LonChaneyJr

8/26/2013 01:57:53 pm

The man as in the man from undercover brother

mike

8/27/2013 02:09:33 am

A side note to Chaney, one of the funniest movies ever

Kayne

8/27/2013 01:45:04 am

I am going to buy the SHIT!!!!! outa this book!!!!

Im gunna FLUD the bathroom man! FLOOD IT!!!!!

Steve

9/4/2013 12:13:21 am

Just finished book 2. Absolutely loved crimson vault, a level above book 1 IMO. I found a few typos, Will, at least in the version I bought. In the early chapters, you accidentally switch from third person, Simon's view to first person view. Did that twice. Three quarter of the book through, you used "know" instead of "no". I should have written down the pages but as most good books, I couldn't put it down. Excellent job Will. You have a high bar for book 3

In which we ramble on.
And by we, I mean me.