We’re officially counting down to publication month, and I’ve never been more thrilled, more caffeinated, or more in awe of what this story has become. It’s happening. The Dead Shadow is coming out this August.
What started as a chaotic collection of scribbled ideas, written late at night with one hand clutching a tea mug and the other occasionally shaking in giddy disbelief, has grown into a fully-realised, heart-hammering, not-entirely-sane magical tale that’s ready to find its people.
And now we have a date. A destination. A month to circle in metaphorical (or literal) neon on the calendar: August is publication month.
1. There Will Be Merch (If the Stars Align)
I’m not going to lie: the lead-up to this moment has been wild. And now that we’re here, we’re turning that wildness into something real. Yes, there will be a book. But also? There will be merch.
I’m talking character-inspired designs, tiny symbols pulled from the story, magical chaos distilled into wearable or keepable things. The kind of stuff that feels like an inside joke with a character who only lives on the page (but maybe also lives in your head a little too).
If all goes well, a few pieces will be ready for publication month—so you can carry a little slice of the book-world with you into the real one.
2. You Might Meet Us at the Launch
We’re hoping to do at least one launch event in August, maybe more if the calendar and chaos gods are kind. And honestly? We’d love to meet you. You’ve supported this journey, shared your excitement, and made this book feel less like a lonely passion project and more like a shared myth we’re building together.
Expect something cosy, a little nerdy, maybe snacks, definitely stories. Possibly even a themed playlist.
3. ARC Readers Will Get the First Taste
Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) are on the way. That means some of you will be able to read the book before publication month even hits.
This magical world is full of beauty, brokenness, and more than a few beasts. If you love neurodivergent-coded characters who are safe, unhinged, weird, loyal, sharp, and soft in equal measure—you’re going to find a few favorites in these pages.
So if you’re a blogger, a reviewer, or just a passionate reader who wants to be part of the early buzz, watch this space. I want this YA fantasy book in the hands of readers who’ll see it, feel it, and get it.
4. The World Is Ready (I Hope?)
The book has become something I didn’t fully expect. There’s magic, yes. But also strange friendships, fractured myths, weird little guys, queer longing (for those who know where to look), sharp Shadows, too much food, and maybe some redemption (no promises).
It’s all been simmering quietly for years, and now it’s almost ready to break through the surface. There’s something magical about knowing it’ll finally be in readers’ hands. Not someday. But publication month. Tada!
5. You’re Part of This
This isn’t just an “us” thing. It never has been. You are part of why this story exists in the first place.
So here’s to publication month. To the friends who cheered from the sidelines. To the weird stories that make us feel seen. To the launch party cupcakes (Am I getting ahead of myself now? Perhaps, but everyone deserves cupcakes). To the ARCs. To the merch. And to the characters who are finally ready to meet you.
August is the month. The YA fantasy book is the thing. You are the magic.
More soon.