Uncrowned: My Thoughts

9/21/2019

I'm nervous.

I'm always nervous before a book comes out because I have no ability to judge my own work. As far as I know, any book I write could be a complete dud. I'm too close to it to tell, so I have to trust the people around me.

The beta readers have never been as universally positive as they were for Uncrowned. That's a relief, and it intrigues me, but I'm still nervous. This is going to be some people's favorite book in the Cradle series and some people's least favorite, because that's true of every book in the series.

I'm just hoping, as always, that the ratio is more favorable than not.

Even setting the quality of the book aside, I'm still nervous because of the scale we're dealing with. The books succeeded far beyond my wildest dreams a long time ago, and the fan response continues to be...overwhelming.

The huge number of pre-orders for Underlord blew everyone away. We couldn't believe how well it did (still can't believe it, really), and it ended up peaking as the #5 best-selling book on the Kindle Store. That means it was the #5 best-selling ebook period on the day of its release.

Awesome. Unbelievable. Which means I really don't know how to process it when I look at our pre-orders this time and I see that we're selling almost twice as many for Uncrowned as we did for Underlord.

This is so much bigger than me that it's kind of scary.

Now, I don't yet know what that increased sales rate really means. It could mean that the Cradle audience has doubled in size, or it could mean that twice as many people pre-ordered but the total number of orders will remain the same. Who knows?

But right now, all the signs we have point to Uncrowned out-performing even Underlord, which already shattered all of my expectations into pieces.

Where do I go with that? How do I live up to that level of expectation?

I don't know, and I'm not certain I'm worthy of a response like this. But I am going to keep writing the best stories I can as frequently as I can.

Thanks for your incredible support. Thanks for sticking with me. And thanks for reading!

-Will

David Gonzalez

9/21/2019 09:04:07 am

You’ll do great. We all wouldn’t be here if we don’t enjoy your story telling. It isn’t just your story telling but the way you write.
Living day by day, stress will only make each step harder. I can’t wait to read your book!

ColdSteel

9/21/2019 09:07:45 am

You, Will Wight, are a great and humble guy. Never change because we love you for who you are in addition to the fantastic books you write.

Jason

9/21/2019 11:34:58 am

Agreed! Well said.

Eran

9/21/2019 09:08:25 am

Thank YOU for writing Cradle, TG was great and all, but you've really improved since then, and continue to! it's a pleasure to see you evolve with the books

Crowking316

9/21/2019 07:07:51 pm

That having been said we need to talk about Travelers Gate... I think everyone can agree that the story isn’t done, I and I’m sure a lot of other people want both a sequel series and a prequel series (definitely needs to hear how valinhall was created it’s rise and it’s fall ending with the tree being planted also how the crimson vault came to be. Where the rest of the dragon fangs are and can any more be made? There’s more but I figured that’s enough for now.

Madeline

9/23/2019 07:05:55 am

I still want to see Simon and Leah in a relationship. Not for the relationship's sake (though I think their personalities are compatible enough that it wouldn't be a disaster), but because I want to see the Eldest Nye's reaction to them being in a relationship.

NormN

9/25/2019 11:42:10 am

Give will a pause, would you. Right I just said that? Damn stupid me.
Anyways, he's already working on enough series, eh? I'd rather see Will doing it slowly and with consistently increasing quality than risking both his mental health and me reading badly edited crap. I'll gladly wait a decade longer before tg is opened again if that's the price. :p

Average Joe

9/21/2019 09:11:02 am

Seriously, Harry Potter was my favorite book. I think this is 1000 times better than that. I don't think I have reread a series more.

scenep

9/21/2019 11:57:44 am

Bump. I have never read a series over and over like this. I just love all the characters! And every book gets better and better!

Ryan

9/21/2019 12:50:12 pm

Agreed I early reread books. But these I have at least ready 3 times it's really weird

Sean

9/22/2019 02:43:57 pm

Agreed! I first picked up black flame when it was first released (saw it on the new releases page on Amazon and it looked interesting). I immediately had to go get the rest of Will's books! I'm not even sure how many times I have reread the series since then, but I never tire of any of them. I've responded similarly to Dakota Krout, but if I had to choose I'd say I enjoy Will's books more.

You are very talented Will! Your stories are enthralling but you keep them classy. Thank you, and keep up the good work!

Gavin

9/22/2019 06:11:45 pm

Same! Ever since I found Unsouled in my kindle recommended, I’ve never found a series quite like it. It’s the only series I’ve ever seen get better and better with every book, and I’m so excited for more! You could have Yerin and Dross switch bodies or something completely crazy and I’d still love the series. Keep up the fantastic work!

Lashan

9/21/2019 09:24:43 am

Will, thanks for the stories and congrats on your deserved success! I still remember reading House of Blades being drawn into the book and later hoping that you will sell enough to keep writing. You did write and you didn't disappoint! I hope you make boat load of money and write more and spend more time with your family and journey through your life with good friends. Can't wait to read Uncrowned! May heavens always smile on you ( and sometimes help you to write faster).

Sharon

9/21/2019 12:12:32 pm

☝️This right here 🙂

Ermal

9/22/2019 01:51:38 pm

☝️ Ditto!

Garrett (Bamfious)

9/21/2019 09:34:53 am

Continue telling the stories you want to tell. It’s all that’s been needed in the past and it’s all that will be needed in the future.

9/21/2019 09:41:29 am

Love ya man. No worries. Enjoy the ride and stay you! Be proud of what you are doing because we sure are. Well done!

Michael

9/21/2019 09:42:43 am

You cracked open a new subgenre and are good enough to capitalize on the market you discovered. You deserve all your success and more.

Mason

9/21/2019 05:36:31 pm

Haha same for me. First book that got me into cultivation stories & then into litrpg

Sean

9/22/2019 02:47:22 pm

Yes! I hadn't realized it, but this is where it started for me too!

Bryce

9/21/2019 09:48:55 am

You capitalized on a growing subgenre at what may have been the best time. Both this and anything involving litrpg have exploded, then people find your series which is very good quality compared to most of what is out there and it is no surprise.

Steve

9/21/2019 10:08:28 am

Having to worry about positive response is a good place to be in. Now back to OKAK!

Mitch

9/21/2019 10:16:42 am

Congrats Will. I'm just grateful for your hard work in churning out these books that are so consistently good. Don't stop when you become famous! (fantasy book famous, but still 😏)

Austin

9/21/2019 10:40:27 am

You're definitely worthy of the response it's getting. I try to tell everyone I can about "My favorite author Will Wight" at every chance I get.

Ben

9/21/2019 10:43:25 am

Will, you may be experiencing impostor syndrome which is common in a lot of people who suddenly find success in something. Your success is well deserved. I’m an avid reader of all the greats, Jordan, Feist, Eddings, Hobb, Sanderson, etc. and in my opinion you are just as talented as they are. You have a unique ability in your writing that allows a reader to not just read the words but to feel the story, and see it in their mind like a film. Your characters are believable and unique and flawed like all of us which allows us to identify with them. Your magic systems are fresh and intriguing.

Enjoy your success, stay humble, and you will go down as one of the legends of the fantasy genre. You deserve this.

Sharon

9/21/2019 12:14:08 pm

Well said!

Angella

9/24/2019 10:35:59 pm

I couldn’t agree more! My sentiments exactly

Laura link

9/28/2019 09:24:01 pm

Hear, hear!! 👏🏽

Jesse

9/21/2019 10:45:09 am

I’m a new fan. Started reading when you announced your Independence Day giveaway. I already had the first three books but hadn’t read them. And since I was gonna get the next three in the series, might as well start reading, right? I pre-ordered as soon as it went up.

Kalarys

9/21/2019 10:46:39 am

It’s totally possible that Uncrowned will be garbage. Even the best series have duds.

Even if it is, I’m so grateful for what you’ve already accomplished. From a reader’s perspective, its been a thrilling ride. You’ve crafted a deeply engrossing world with compelling characters, and it’s been a joy to experience. You deserve every bit of your current success, and even if Uncrowned tanks, that will still be true.

With that said, I sincerely doubt Uncrowned will be anything less than awesome, and I look forward to finding out :D

BlackMage

9/21/2019 10:51:05 am

Congrats! Can't say that I am surprised at the great sales numbers. 4 more days to go before I can get my hands on Uncrowned!

Matt

9/21/2019 10:51:32 am

You better keep ‘em coming! Totally addictive. Can’t believe I have listened to the bloody excerpt from uncrowned (read by Travis) four times already.

So, just keep it up and don’t worry about us not liking it. We clearly do :-)

Ben

9/21/2019 10:52:46 am

Don't let the pressure get to you. This is supposed to fun for us and I hope that it can continue to be fun for you.

Jared Bowers

9/21/2019 11:22:53 am

I remember years ago when I had a friend who is now gone come running into me going "Dude dude dude you need to read this book the main character is not the chosen one in the story." So the humor him I sat down and started reading house of blades. I read for a few minutes. I thought to myself it's okay I'll get to it later. I went back to whatever I was reading at the time but it kept nagging me in the back of my head. Then the second book came out. I decided that I'd go back and give the book a second run because Pete said it was amazing. After I got past the first chapter it was. You quickly became one of the few witers that I will buy any books you put out. This makes me laugh because you do amazing things like putting all your books up for free for a day but I'm sitting here sad because I already own all your books. You do good work keep at it.

Lifeishard

9/21/2019 11:24:37 am

I started reading wuxia and cultivation novels before unsouled even came out. It was the most enjoyable and frustrating indulgence of my life as the writing can sometimes just be rinse and repeat. (Insult, overreact, fight, underestimate, get plotarmor power up)but I just couldn’t stop as the genre captured the part of me that still thinks one day I’ll wake up with superpowers. When I read your series it felt like my prayers had finally been answered(lol). All the complaints I had with cultivation books fixed and packaged into a compelling and captivating series that I still reread on the regular. Thank you for writing this

Fayana

9/23/2019 08:30:36 am

This. It fixes everything that drove me out of Chinese web novels and light novels generally. The MC is reasonably humble, the opponents are relatively sane, people are able to bend rather than break at the first opposition and you don't feel like the school/sect/clan should have died out centuries ago with the rate they murder each other over minuscule amounts of cultivation resources as well as ridiculously overblown conflicts.

Fiddler

9/21/2019 12:12:18 pm

There's always going to be people who don't like your work or just annoying fans like the ones who ask when the next book is coming out right after you release a book and want a vacation. All you can do is tune out the loud annoying people and keep chugging along.

Take care of yourself first, and your work will continue to be excellent. Sounds like you already know that though!

Cookies!

9/21/2019 12:25:35 pm

Gl and Have fun on this journey ! :D

John Michael

9/21/2019 12:30:21 pm

Been following you for years. I have enjoyed every book published so far. One of the things that makes your books so special is the care and joy you obviously take in writing. Thank you and I am looking forward to next Thursday.

Jason Wang

9/21/2019 01:11:02 pm

You will do just fine. I would never really hate a book you wrote (unless it's 18+.) Your books are fantastic, and I love your bloopers. Cant wait to read Uncrowned!!! OwO

Yosef

9/21/2019 01:33:14 pm

Well to be glib the easy answer for where you go next is to release OKAK.
But in all seriousness releasing whatever story you are most happy with is the most any fan can ask from a writer. that's all we want to read.

Dillon Rodenbaugh

9/21/2019 02:14:35 pm

Don't worry Will. You will definitely do well on this book and future books. You've got the drive and passion to continue writing, as shown by everyone who has already pre-ordered the book. I have been with you since TG and will look forward to your next. Also it pains me to say, but you deserve breaks too. Take a well deserved one.

Inevitable

9/21/2019 02:59:19 pm

Dread it. Run from it. Destiny arrives just the same. Accept the fact that Cradle is making you too much Coin to stop. Finish cradle 1st. Once you have and are a bazillionaire you can go do elder empire like a rich lady’s passion project

Firemonkey

9/21/2019 03:49:23 pm

I’m so glad to hear how well your books are doing and am constantly impressed with how far you have come as an author since I first read travelers gate. Don’t worry about the expectations or pressure because I know you’ve got this thing nailed.

Andrew F

9/21/2019 03:55:31 pm

Been here since the beginning, as long as you keep writing I'll keep reading.

Banished to the trash dimension

9/21/2019 04:01:43 pm

Been with ya since the beginning, and I'm here till the end!

Carmelino H Guiao II

9/21/2019 04:07:01 pm

I have enjoyed everything you have written. But they're is something about Lindon and the world you have set up that speaks to the martial artist and table top rpgamer in me. This work has me looking forward to each successive book. Thank you for sharing your vision. Now when is the next book coming out?

Alex

9/21/2019 05:51:13 pm

I guess I'd say to not change much of what you've been doing or second guess yourself too much, because what you've been doing has been great and working out well.

My only humble claim to fame is getting a couple YouTube videos I made hit between 30 and 50 thousand views, but even with that modest "achievement" I remember feeling a surreal sense of dread, even as my friends congratulated and praised me. I wondered how my content (warts and all, from my own perspective) could really worthy of that many people's time and consideration.

I think it came down to realizing that I wasn't suddenly more amazing, and that all the other media I enjoy is created by pretty regular people too, who just try really hard and have some good ideas.

This is your time to shine. Enjoy it for what it is. Easier said than done, perhaps, but that's my advice. :P

Jacob

9/21/2019 05:51:17 pm

Will,

You ask how you are gonna live up to the expectations that your audience is asking for? Let me just say that as long as you are putting out a quality book to read then just keep doing what you are doing. Do not change is my biggest request!

Thank you for the incredible world you gave created!

Avid Reader

Francisco Leon

9/21/2019 05:54:40 pm

I recommend this series to every reader I know. I have had many "favorite books" over my lifetime, and I love to read, but this one takes the cake. It is for reading experiences like this that I read! Thank you, WIll!

Erin

9/21/2019 06:03:59 pm

You’re like Lindon... he never thought he would reach Jade... but now! He’s reached beyond gold!!!

James

9/22/2019 04:31:38 pm

Sooooooooo True!

Levin

9/21/2019 06:06:29 pm

I think I speak for everyone when I say you should thank us with a first chapter preview.

Fayana

9/23/2019 08:32:20 am

Well that would be pretty awesome. Maybe a link for those who preordered?

chad

9/21/2019 06:08:58 pm

Buck up!

Just write the books you like to write. Hire a money manager, PR person and other staffers to handle the worry and drudge. Have fun... work hard, play harder and if it all ends, you be right back where you were a few years ago and you can survive that fine. You've go momentum on your side... you'll be set the rest of your life without worry.

Ford

9/21/2019 08:02:48 pm

To paraphrase Dory, “Just keep writing, just keep writing, just keep writing writing writing...”

Elliot

9/21/2019 08:04:12 pm

Will, I think I can honestly say you are my favorite author. I have been reading your books since the start and they got me right there from the beginning. They were just so...odd. When I first started reading Travelers Gate I laughed at the idea of talking dolls. But then slowly but surely I became used to them until their sarcasm and wit became the best part of the series for me. I am not going to lie I actually cried the Otoku died. I felt Kai's rage and sadness. I felt the grief of Simon as Kai died within his hands. I felt as though I was there in the room with all those characters throughout the story. And that is something only a master at writing can do. To be able to pour such emotion through the pages of a book and make a person feel something...that matters. And then there is Elder Empire. I had never before read a book(s) following two different characters each managing to make me feel something for both of them. Finally here we are, Cradle. I remember reading Unsouled and staying up until 3 in the morning. I knew from that moment that Cradle was my favorite series of all time. From then on the books got better and better. Dross makes me laugh whenever he talks (Travis does a great voice for him), when Orthos left I almost cried, and Lindon just shows what its like to rise up to the top from the bottom when no one believed in you your whole life. Some people may say these are just books but they are not. They are worlds. You are such a great person and author. You respond to your fans, ask us what we think about your ideas, and even have a website dedicated to the lore of your stories. You may think you can't live up to our expectations. That is true. You don't just reach our expectations, you surpass them. No matter what your fans will support you. And for every person that doesn't like Uncrowned there will be three that do. Don't you see how much your fans like you? So what if we complain to you? The fact that you see our complaints at all shows how much you care about us. Good luck with Uncrowned and don't worry about the bad comments!

Josh Turnbull

9/21/2019 08:16:38 pm

You deserve every last bit of success. Your story-telling ability is phenomenal. As a bibliophile, english & history major, journalist, writer, and (hopefully) soon-to-be-attorney, I understand the value of an intellectual property and the critical role Amazon has played in eliminating draconian publishing methods. I love libraries, the smell of books, the look and feel of a quality hardback edition. I spent many days in Rauner Rare Collections Library during my undergrad years in Hanover - holding a Gutenberg Bible, an Ortelian Atlas, any number of first edition books, is a magical thing. But some 8 years ago I made the switch to purely digital (excluding graphic novels, the medium just doesn't work) to make sure I directly support the men and the minds behind the stories I love so very much. It was a difficult switch. But I'll buy each and every offering you have on the table as soon as I become aware of it - all the while continuing to reccomend your work to anyone I deem receptive (a tradition that began for me with Simon losing his parents in the woods, shortly after publication).

Thanks for everything, Will.

Momma Beat

9/21/2019 08:19:46 pm

Even though I don’t fall in the typical target audience for Will’s books, (mid-40s woman) I read a lot. Although I rarely share my preferences with friends who don’t read, I often gush about Will, his books, his interactions with fans, and his talent to anyone who will listen. I started reading around the time Soulsmith came out and since then I have reminders set on my calendar, pre-order the second the books are available, and stalk social media for release updates in a way that’s probably not healthy for a woman of my age. Keep up the good work, Will. I feel like a proud momma bear seeing her cub succeed. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication on our behalf. You deserve all the success you’ve achieved so far and will attain in the future. Never doubt that.

Sharon

9/23/2019 04:48:22 pm

Lol, I feel like I could have wrote this 😊. Your story is similar to mine.

Aaron

9/21/2019 08:33:11 pm

Will I just want to say that I love your books and I wanted to thank you for the places you've taken me and the stories you've told. Please do whatever you need to do for you, if you need to take a break then take a break, the fans will be here for you when you come back! I fully believe you've earnt the response you get! Thank you for being vulnerable with us as well, and thanks again for the books :)

Jamie Woods

9/21/2019 09:14:48 pm

*raises hand*

I'm partially to blame... I've been pushing your books onto people; offering, bribing, or blackmailing them into reading them. Once they start, the dream aura formation triggers and they become trapped in the fan'dom of Cradle. Hence forth they have a compulsive urge to read more and more of the series, compulsively pre-ordering the next book, reading it as soon as they can get their hands on it, and the only way they can ease their own obsession is by getting as many other people as possible trapped within the dream aura formation with them.

Kaileonis

9/21/2019 10:07:29 pm

Dont forget a time for yourself. To rest. To relax. To unwind. As Lindon often does in between his battles, meditating and cycling. Congratulations!! And keep it coming!

Zach

9/21/2019 10:20:37 pm

Will, I can say that, with as many times as I have re-read the series, even if you put out a "dud" it will be a good book. You have improved upon every book that you have given "Us", your demanding readers, and I am sure you would continue to do so even without as many of us as there are.

Kevin

9/21/2019 10:57:39 pm

I read a LOT of sci-fi/Fantasy. This series is really good. Glad that you are getting the recognition you deserve. Hope you make bank. I am kind of glad that I am not one of those poor bastards waiting for the next Elder Empire books, because the money is the money. You may need to take a Cradle break to keep your head fresh at some point, but I personally am great with all cradle, all the time.

Orama

9/21/2019 11:53:05 pm

Normally when I read a series (Wheel of Time, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Sword of Truth) I do not generally reread it, Wheel of Time once. With Cradle, I am not sure there is something intangible there that made me reread the first sixth books 4 times almost consecutively. Not sure what it is but keep up the great work and I will keep looking forward to reading it. Again and again and again.

Kathvely

9/22/2019 01:41:57 am

As a Kindle unlimited. I think I remember reading you still get money and credit when I download. I cannot preorder though without double paying. I am curious how much this affects the numbers. Eithway I hope you get #1 this time.

Ross

9/22/2019 05:10:21 am

I have gotten into the habit of rereading the entire series before each new Cradle release - never done that before for any other series, so absolutely primed for Uncrowned. Will, you have such a connected and loyal fan base that even if Uncrowned falls short (which I seriously doubt) we will be here for the next book, and the next one and the..... Probably easier said than done, but try and relax, enjoy the heights of success and look after yourself... and if all else fails, have an Oreo :)

John

9/22/2019 06:45:10 am

Personally, I think it’s only fair if you shatter our expectations back and post the first chapter up as a teaser.
Well, all drooling aside, you are one of the few regular authors I still read since you got me hooked on wuxia. Congratulations on the success. Well deserved.

Jake

9/22/2019 07:12:41 am

Well considering I have re read the series and re read underlord about 4 times since you announced uncrowned release date and I plan on re reading it the day before too I'd have to say you deserve all the praise.. love your worlds (all 3 of the beautiful things) and every character.

Nerevar

9/22/2019 07:27:54 am

Aw, this post is so sweet it makes me wanna hug you ^^.

Your succes is well deserved and should be enjoyed.
By any metric there is, we fans are happy, be it quality of the books, the price or release dates, so its only fair that you are happy as well.

Randomname

9/22/2019 07:28:50 am

Will I do love cradle but are we ever going to see Calder again?it seems the elder spawn keep getting pushed back for cradle :/. I’m sure I’m not the only one who would be willing to see cradle put on hold for just a little to see this story have some light too

Lashan

9/22/2019 09:29:59 am

Shoosh.

Sileet

9/22/2019 12:34:03 pm

Now, I don't want to take away the positive feedback that everyone else are bringing to this post, but the original post reminds me of an abridge copy to a puppet comedian named Randy.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhjMOtaBqVc&t=997s

Its a good special that's pretty funny.

Anyway, Looking forward to the 26, can't wait to loose sleep like much of my fellow readers. LOVE YOUR WORK!!!

P.S. Will we be seeing more material like Titan Bone, mentioned by Orthos in book three to Lindon the first time Orthos mentions void dragons dance?

Brian Lindauer

9/22/2019 08:34:32 pm

Will,

Your humility and awe is a credit to you. And, is probably a major part of the wonderful "you" that's able to create such a mesmerizing and fantastic story.

And if you're having a moment of doubt, a moment of "Look on my works ye mighty and despair," well, just keep doing you, man. It's what got you here, and that's all we could ever expect.

All the best,

Brian

Pauley

9/22/2019 11:50:09 pm

You are the best ass writer, your freakin nasty like no ones mother.

Nerevar

9/23/2019 01:06:34 am

Im not certain how it goes in this case, but is paperback only delievered from US, not Europe?
Wanna do the math of how long it takes for my order to be delivered ..
Its hard, e-book being one click away, while paperback delivery takes some days to come.

Francis

9/23/2019 06:57:39 am

Don’t get run over by a bus, Will.

Anant

9/23/2019 07:14:02 am

I feel pity for anybody who has to fight against Lindon in Uncrowned.
Great work Will keep it up.

Azqa

9/23/2019 07:50:26 am

You're getting that kind of response because you're talented and you put in a ton of work. You've learned from your past mistakes and you evolve and grow. You've capitalized on opportunities, and you're reaping the rewards of doing so.

Traveler's Gate was a trilogy because that's what you thought it should be. You've said in the past that you wish you'd made it more open-ended, like Cradle is. Elder Empire is a daring approach to storytelling with the paired trilogies. Unfortunately it's not working as well as you'd hoped, but you've learned from that. Unsouled was a side project that you tossed out to see what kind of reaction you'd get, and you've built on that because you recognized the opportunity you had. Skysworn had some issues, and you adjusted your approach after acknowledging that.

You're a talented writer and you keep improving. The positive response you're getting is because you've earned it - Valinhall would approve ;)

Jayce

9/23/2019 09:54:16 am

View it as a message from the audience. We love the Unsouled series and want you to focus on it because we view this as your masterpiece. This is the series that I try to get everyone that I know to read because its just so damn fun. Thank you for everything you have given us, I can't wait to share this adventure.

Darktreeofdoom

9/23/2019 10:06:45 am

So when you get bought up to make a movie please have john Williams do the soundtrack I had to stop reading the first scene of underlord to put on the battle of heros for background.

Fayana

9/23/2019 10:22:59 am

I really hope we see more of the Sacred Valley soon, maybe in book 8?

During my reread I noticed there is at least one ancient beast in the valley, a five-tailed snow fox, its near the end. We are also told that the school is moving against the wei clan in force to take revenge on Lindon. I imagine the totality of the school, with formations and treasures might, might be able to hold off a single underlord for a while if they go on pure defence. Once Lindon becomes an overlord I doubt the entire valley could stop him from doing as he wants.

Nathan

9/23/2019 10:48:33 am

Don't get nervous! You're doing great! I'm impatiently waiting for Thursday.
Just don't overthink things. You'll end up like other authors who can't finish their series because they are constantly trying to live up to the hype. Just write your beautiful story and stick to the Path you've created.

Phil Thomas

9/23/2019 01:32:42 pm

My only complaint is that both me and my business partner are big fans and have 6 hours to spend travelling via plane and train on Wednesday and it doesn’t come out until Thursday. Gah!

Your books are awesome, this will be awesome. No need to worry :)

Cameron

9/23/2019 02:57:06 pm

If I am anything to go by, I began by reading your books through KU, then, because they are so damn good I went back and bought them all.

Make sure!

9/23/2019 04:24:12 pm

Do Not Die before you finish this story. Ensure Lindon can slap the Abbidan around before you kick the proverbial bucket.
. . . don't think that's too much to ask. . .
As for the 26th? I'll be enjoying a nice IPA while I smash pages like it's my last literary meal.

Love ya buddy.
Keep writing!

Pat

9/23/2019 05:03:56 pm

You would have to shoot me to stop me from reading the rest of the series. I am hoping for your continued success so I can read your work for years to come. This series is so much fun! enjoy your success!!

God

9/23/2019 05:21:51 pm

If you want to keep this success the next book to this series must already be underway. It must also be longer and come out quicker.

No pressure.

Path of Broken Energy

9/23/2019 05:32:44 pm

Keep it up. You will continue to inspire me to may my series work

Dat

9/24/2019 03:40:16 am

Brandon Sanderson, Will Wight, that’s my list of authors whose books I truly look forward to reading, and I’ve been reading for 20 years. That’s the list. Of course you’re nervous, but trust in your ability and trust in what you’ve created.

Jeff

9/24/2019 05:05:41 am

Will, it's definitely important to sate the fans, to appease us, and to give us (within reason) what we want... but ultimately, we follow and purchase and love what you write because you follow your gut and your heart and give us a glimpse into your wonderful imagination. As fans, it is OUR JOB to support you and believe in your creation. It isn't ours. We're just playing in your sandbox and paying for the privilege. That doesn't mean you believe your own hype, it just means you stay grounded and continue to put out work you believe in. If you believe, we will.

The loser

9/24/2019 08:43:45 am

Just so you know, you've created this amazing logical world unlike a lot of fiction out here. Its so damn addicting like rowling's or sandersons' worlds; its just amazing. Can't wait for the next book! 2 days seem too far away....you deserve all the success

On a side note, this might be lazy person's request but can we have stickers with Dross' or Eithan's quotes that we can print or download? (Not sure how the copyrights work)

UltraMagnus

9/24/2019 09:43:48 am

Will, first off, I have more anticipation and excitement to read your next book(s) than I do for either Mr. Ruthfuss or Mr. Martin. While they are excellent writers as well, your speed of delivery, tone and world building are WAY more engaging because they are fresh and exciting. Not being a "fanboy," but I tell EVERYONE who is a fantasy reader to pick up your books. Just keep doing what you are doing and let the creative direction go where it takes you. If you keep writing the way you do, your fans will continue to buy your books and support you.

Second, your books got my son reading with the Cradle series. Right there, you became my #1 author. His reading skills went from extra help and tutors to being near the top of his class in one summer. He is now trying other types of literature and has found he likes history books and oddly enough he has decided he likes Shakespeare (although he doesn't quite get it LOL.) It sounds cheesy, but you have impacted someones life outside of mere entertainment value. To me, being able to get my son reading is worth it's weight in gold.

SziklaZsiraf

9/24/2019 11:35:20 am

Do we get to lay our hands on the books earlier in Europe? Is it going live by local time or is it fixes for specific timezone (EST/PST)? I'm just wondering if I should stay up or not :)

kris kerr

9/24/2019 03:20:25 pm

First and foremost:

You are an amazing storyteller. I would hope the number of positive responses here would reassure you of that. Like many of the others, I've been reading your books since Traveler's Gate and I've always felt that you would "make it big". I've told everyone I know about your books. Heck, I've even purchased copies and scattered them across the country when I travel. You are just that good.

That being said....I also do want to offer a few pieces of constructive criticism . Please, PLEASE don't for a moment think this in any way lowers my admiration for you as an author.

The price of your books has more than doubled since Soulsmith came out. In my opinion, there are just too many small mistakes in most of your books for a $7 price point. I realize that what started as a mechanism for you to self publish (Hidden Gnome Publishing) has turned into an actual business with associated costs. On that staff there needs to be someone that can copy edit your work to find those mistakes prior to publication, or maybe expand your beta readers to include some pedantic reader that catches everything and posts to reddit constantly. I applaud your effort to release the audio book at the same time, but that means you need to identify and correct issues well before you send it off for narration. There are some issues that may be able to be corrected with a simple addition to the text. The timeline issues in Ghostwater could have been explained as Northstrider creating the pocket world in a way that made time flow differently so that research could be done faster. You'd already established the precedent in the first book that Cradle time was +5 deviations from the Way. I haven't gone through all of them recently, but I have something like 10 issues in Ghostwater marked in my notes. As you become more popular and rise in the ranks of authors, those are the kind of things I believe you need to work on.

And while I'd never suggest you follow the example set by Rothfuss for writing, I do think you could monetize your content/IP in a similar way. I have no idea why you aren't selling replicas of scales or badges in your store. Those are both incredibly easy to design and produce and would provide a steady income stream. Little glow in the dark coloration of resin with some vacuum forms and there you have something that I'd probably spend a couple of bucks on. Make them different colors for different types of madra and now they become collectables. You could even make "high grade" scales with a little LED inside to make 'em glow.

Again, I think you are an amazing author and storyteller. These are just things I think you need to work on as you rise through the ranks.

Steve

9/25/2019 08:06:36 am

Pedantic reader here; would be more than happy to comb each book for minor errors for free in exchange for the opportunity to read the books before publication!

Kan link

9/24/2019 04:17:48 pm

Whatever you are doing you are doing it right so don't worry!

ilraen

9/24/2019 11:23:29 pm

we know what day its dropping... BUT WHAT TIME?!?!?!

ilraen

9/24/2019 11:25:12 pm

totally expecting "if you're asking me, who am I supposed to ask"

Fayana

9/25/2019 08:24:29 am

9 pm EST according to the front page. For those of us in Europe that means some time tomorrow.

FTWdy

9/25/2019 02:52:59 am

Sacred Valley Prisoner

9/25/2019 09:51:58 am

Will,

I would just like to take a minute out of my day and THANK YOU. I have some pretty severe anxiety, and your humor, writing style, books...even this blog helps distract me from everything I have going on in life.

On top of that you manage to stay humble. You are a rockstar, and whether the book succeeds or fails, you have something in your hands to be proud of.

So here is a thank you from me, and everyone else that frequent your site and books.

Yours sincerely,
Sacred Valley Prisoner

Erik

9/25/2019 11:57:52 am

I generally per-order books from series I enjoy! Why? Because I always find out the book is coming out in 2-6 months and if I don't per-order 2-7 months later...I make it back around again and "&#$##$" what do you mean its been out for 3+ months! So I just pre-order and kindle lets me know I have a new book usually around 12:15 am, I have a good reason to stay up even later! :D

On a side note Will, let me join your Beta readers group and I'll tell point out a whole lot of things that need "fixing". :P Just Kidding!

Really looking forward to book 7!

Sacred Valley Prisoner

9/25/2019 02:57:14 pm

I agree with Erik....I WILL GLADLY BETA READ. ha

Andrew

9/25/2019 08:22:33 pm

When you gave away the foundation trilogy I convinced my friends to pick up a free e-book of the series they've indulgently listend to me ramble and rave about, those that have read it so far are equally addicted. I'm ecstatic to see where you take this series and cannot thank you enough for writing it.

Jin

9/25/2019 11:53:45 pm

All I can say is that I hadn't heard about you when Underlord was released, I picked up "Unsouled" on Audible and started listening and then found out you had written a bunch of books in the series. I read all 6 books in a few weeks and then read first two books of the Travelers gate after that.
Pre-ordering for me was a given, I really enjoy the books! So one reason is that you have more fans now than before.

That said, it wouldn't hurt to give Lindon a bit of a break every now and then, I would love to see him return to his home and meet the family again, even if just for a "holiday" :)

Justin

9/27/2019 10:37:17 am

Keep calm cause
7x6=Cradle

Adam

9/27/2019 01:15:40 pm

First, I love the series and you're writing And...I read Uncrowned and really liked it. My only issue is that it ends abruptly. It feels like what was in this volume was only a part of a whole Cradle story. It left me feeling like a chapter ended, not a whole book. The end leaves me frustrated because I now have to wait the conclusion of this part of the series.

I hope the next book comes quick because its going to be a frustrating wait.

tl;dr; Good news is I love the series and can't get enough, bad news is Uncrowned felt like it ended well before it should have leaving me frustrated.

Knarfster

9/27/2019 07:22:58 pm

Uncrowned was Awesome. I finished it in a day, but damn you and your cliff hangers!

Jeff G

9/28/2019 01:25:43 pm

Will, I hear Dross in Wheatleys voice from Portal 2. What do you hear his voice as?

9/28/2019 10:38:36 pm

Don’t want to be the wet blanket here. But Uncrowned pre-orders were substantial because Underlord was excellent. Everyone was super excited to see the series continue and couldn’t wait for the next book.

The pre-orders for the next book are likely to be more modest; the reaction to Uncrowned seems to be more mixed. Personally, I also felt that the plot advancement was too weak for a whole book.

Arnaud

9/29/2019 08:03:42 pm

Will, I just finished reading Uncrowned in less than 24hours and as usual it's pure gold. My only critic is that the book is too short! The very last scene just makes me want to strangle you, this is just too much suspense for my weak little heart!!;) Please give us volume 8 asap, I am in desperate need to know what happens next!
Thanks for the great job you have done so far with Cradle series, and for introducing me to a whole new style of fantasy!

Cedar

10/9/2019 09:07:50 am

Will,
I tried to write this before Uncrowned came out, but I couldn't get it right until now.

I came to Traveler's Gate by recommendation of a friend. I read a lot of books on recommendation, but it is fairly rare for me to then read everything an author has written. After reading House of Blades, I immediately started looking for more of your books.
I love Traveler's Gate, I think the world you created is beautiful and unique and I'm always interested in seeing more of it. That would be enough for me to keep reading, but that isn't all. The cuts to other point of view characters feels so different. Most books treat characters as narrative stepping stones, they move the plot forward, but I don't see that in your characters. When you switch to a new character, you're giving us insight. I can think of several instances of this in House of Blades, but there isn't a better example than Of Sea and Shadow.
I read Of Shadow and Sea after I finished Traveler's Gate, and I was so interested in the world and Shera and Intent. I think about Intent a lot, it's such an interesting magic system and I often think in terms of Intent when I read new books. But it wasn't until I started Of Sea and Shadow that I understood the true heart of those books. And I immediately began telling people to read your books. It had moved from something that I enjoyed to something important. I don't know of anyone else writing stories like Of Sea and Shadow, where so clearly you can understand, can sympathize, can love the villain, and understand why they are who they are. Honestly, I was dumbfounded, I couldn't believe that someone was writing books like that.
And I couldn't wait for your books. I still can't. I'm obsessively on the site, waiting for news. But I was not excited for Unsouled. I loved your other series so much, I wasn't excited for something new. But again, I was stunned.
You are an incredible writer. Your world building and magic systems are so interesting and well defined. I could write so much more, and at times this comment was much longer, but I'm going to close with this.
When I think about Underlord, I still get physically nervous. I was very uncertain who would live through that book, and that tension, some of the close calls, were unnerving. I didn't want to lose them.
Thank you for writing.

Sandy Lozano

10/24/2019 07:51:12 pm

I've blown through the Cradle series...when is the next one coming?!? I'm hooked!

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