
Ever since I finished the manuscript of "The Second Coming" I have dreamed of the day that it would be published, the day when I could hold a book in my hand that bore my name on the front. I now know with certainty that that day is coming.
For the past two months I have had my manuscript with Pentian Publishers, a Spanish publishing house that specializes in a different type of crowd-funding. Instead of just gifting funds to aspiring writers, with promises of books or characters named after them, Pentian offers backers a chance to actually invest in a new novel. They will receive a share of every single book sold. As they put it; "The Publishing Revolution".
As yesterday dawned, I knew that I had just one day remaining on my book and the funding level stood at just 30.71%. I told myself that it didn't actually matter...I was going to get this book published come hell or high-water. If I couldn't do it through Pentian, I'd find another way...plan B or C or D or whatever plan worked. What I was thrilled with was the process I had gone through to try and get people interested in my book. Some people I contacted did invest in it and some didn't, but that wasn't the point. So many people gave me their moral and heart-felt support that I was incredibly humbled by the whole experience. To those that did back me, and you know who you are: Nick, Tracey, Marilyn, Darren, Nette and of course Pentian themselves, you have helped me realize my dream and I could not be happier. But also, to everyone else who put up with my constant social media postings and messages seeking support, thank you also for your kindness and generosity of spirit.

"WHAT!" was my immediate response. Yes, it was true, Pentian had funded the shortfall and the book now showed 100% funded on their website. I just couldn't believe it...it really was going to happen. To Pentian, I must give my unreserved appreciation. Obviously they liked the book if they were prepared to back it with their own money. I checked and discovered that they do this from time to time with some books, but not with all. I was just relieved, honored and thrilled that they had chosen my book to be one of those.
So now, I sit and wait for the book to be published, for that awesome day when I can hold it in my hand, touch it, feel it and see it. A published author told me yesterday that the moment you hold your first novel in your hands truly was an awe inspiring moment. I am just so thrilled to know that I will now have that opportunity, soon.
So, what next?

My next project is actually a love story that spans thousands of miles, two people's lives and a multitude of hurdles. It is titled "Just a Drop in the Ocean" with the first draft about a fifth of the way written. I do plan to do the sequel to "The Second Coming" after the "Ocean" novel, but for now it must stay where it belongs - in my head. "Just a Drop in the Ocean" is written wholly and solely for my biggest fan - my beautiful wife Thess.

Firstly, my son Christopher, who is a budding writing talent in his own right. Without his countless cajoling and at times outright abuse I would never have managed to have gotten this novel written. He was always prepared to read whatever I sent him, comment, offer good ideas and plot twists that added greatly to the overall completed work. His favorite phrase undoubtedly has to be; "Stop making excuses and stop procrastinating". Whenever I needed a sharp kick up the bum to get back on track, Chris was always there to deliver it...deriving considerable pleasure from doing so; I might add. Thanks bud - you are awesome.

You never doubted me; you always believed this book would be published and you have no idea how special it makes me feel when you say; with so much pride; "I am the wife of a published author - wow!" Well honey; "I am the husband of the prettiest, sexiest, funniest, most charming woman on this planet and I couldn't be happier."
I love you babes...thank you for everything. You are my everything.