Spring is almost here. The days are stretching a little longer, the air feels lighter, and I’m reminding myself that new growth often begins before we can see it.
The Plains—my knight retelling set in the same world as Project PQARK—is officially in proof edits (woohoo!). After multiple rounds of shaping and sharpening, it’s incredibly satisfying to see this story standing strong. We’re in the final stretch.
Project PQARK is currently in my hands as I work through my editor’s comments. It will go through one more round of developmental and line edits before heading toward print. It’s growing into something tighter and more powerful than its earliest drafts.
Book 4 of Jennifer’s world is still with my developmental editor. I don’t have a return date yet, but I’m eager to dive back into it when it comes home.
And I’m stepping into something new.
This month I’ll begin working with a new developmental editor (very excited) on a fresh series set in Jennifer’s world. These books will be simpler reads that can stand alone and be read out of order.
The first is built around a Nurse Nightingale retelling—an injured man who falls for the nurse caring for him. The second centers on one of my favorite male characters. He falls hard. He loves faithfully. And yes… I adore him already.
On a more personal note, my father has recently been placed in hospice. This season has made writing more difficult—but not impossible. Stories have always been a place of steadiness for me, and I’m grateful to still be at the desk.
Spring reminds us that even after long winters, life returns. Quietly at first. Then all at once.
Blessings,
N.A. Hydes
As always, thank you for reading, for waiting, and for caring about these worlds as much as I do.
Back to the desk.
