The Rose Shield is my 4-book fantasy series planned for March-ish, um, maybe April. Book One actually has a name now: Catling’s Bane.
I’ve been introducing characters for the past few months. You’ve met:
Raker, the man who hears voices in the fog
Catling, a six-year-old with a rose birthmark around her eye
Whitt, the boy battling crajeks in the swamp
Gannon, captive in the belly of the Wandering Swan
Vianne, an influencer who tortures poor Gannon
Meet Kadan
Excerpt from Catling’s Bane, The Rose Shield: Book One
The high ward’s residence and offices of governance, including quarters for esteemed advisors, ministers, and influencers, encompassed the entire seventh tier. Covered walkways edged with potted winter greenery connected the various structures, all Founder-made.
An influencer. The prospect of mastering the skills of manipulation tangled Kadan’s stomach into a hard knot. What would his uncle require of him? To ease unsavory negotiations, to inflict torture, to smooth over the murder of children, to halt the beating of an innocent heart?
He walked to the tier’s edge and gazed over the ever-widening layers that petaled outward into shadowy markets hundreds of feet below. The moons cast an eerie light on the evergreen forests and fields stained with freshly fallen snow. The Blackwater coursed through it all, an icy serpent winding to the distant sea.
By inches, he shuffled closer to the rim. His toes extended into the air, and he closed his eyes. For an endless moment, he teetered on the rim of a choice wholly his own. His actions were harmless, weren’t they? Or had he grown cruel, learned the high ward’s lessons of power? He couldn’t abide his life, couldn’t bear the commitment his uncle required. A raw breeze ruffled his hair, and he suddenly couldn’t wait to fall.
A hand grabbed his jacket’s collar. He gasped and his eyes flew open. Fighting for balance, he reeled backward onto the tier. His heart hammered in his ears as he spun and ripped loose of the grasp.
The influencer stepped back and offered a modest bow. “My apologies, I didn’t wish you to fall.”
“I was… thinking.” Kadan straightened his jacket.
“This province isn’t without its beauty,” the influencer said, stepping to the edge. Kadan didn’t move, the young man unfamiliar to him. He wore the blue jacket of an emotive, shaved head patterned with swirling woads.
“Are you here for me?”
The man smiled. “I’m Qeyon, from Ava-Grea. I don’t believe I am here for you, Kadan.”
In truth, Kadan wasn’t surprised that the man knew his name. “My uncle is sending me to Ava-Grea for training. He wants my oath. He wishes to make use of me.”
Qeyon paused to gaze over the high ward’s tier. “Your uncle is a powerful man, and I imagine he is seldom crossed. Wait until you experience Ava-Grea, Kadan, before you decide to leap.”
**
Note: Many thanks to everyone who offered to beta read and to all those who considered it, but just didn’t have the time. This blogging community is immensely generous and supportive. I was successful in finding some willing souls. Stay tuned! ❤
Myths of the Mirror 
Beautiful imagery! ❤ Loving the introductions to your characters. Thanks for sharing these. (I may have missed a few…I'm going to check.)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much for reading, Sarah. It has been a fun way to introduce the books. Glad you enjoy the little snippets 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You actually talk to your characters begire you write about them?!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I write full bios for each main character while working on the outline of my story. Usually I kick the bio off, but they become full people to me very quickly and take over, just like they do in the book 🙂 It’s one of the things I totally love about writing. If you’re interested, here are my prompts for character building: https://mythsofthemirror.com/2016/12/02/character-building-prompts/ Thanks for reading!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful writing! I’m anticipating great reads ahead with 4 books in your series ~ bring it on! Hugs
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Christy. I have sooo much work to do before this series is ready. But I think the first book will show up in March 🙂 This is my favorite time of year – lots of writing time. Have a great week and Happy Writing 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Whenever I read your excerpts, Diana, however long or short, I can always say that I’m “there.” And that’s no easy feat, especially out of context.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the kind comment. I love hearing that I’ve transported you, of course. Thanks so much for the beta read offer too. I’m thrilled. ❤
LikeLike
Cannot wait, Diana! I loved all the excerpts you posted, and I like the title. Best of luck with the series! xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Inese. The first book is coming together and covers happen in February. The others will lag a bit, but not by much. Thank so much for the cheers. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Woot! Congrats on the title, Diana. That is usually the hardest part for me. Now and then, the title springs crystal clear and right away… but not usually. Looking forward to your new series. Mega hugs
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Teagan. I struggled with the titles for this series a bit as I wanted them to relate to each other. Getting close. Thanks for the cheers. xxx Super Massive Hugs! xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Mm… I’ll most certainly stay tuned. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh good. 🙂 Tee hee. I’ll definitely try to pull together a “Book Talk.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Look forward to it, Diana. Simply let me know when you’re ready and I’ll send the invitation so you can post it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wishing you all the best for your new series Diana. You can inspire all procrastinators!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ha! Proscrastinator beware! Thanks, Balroop. It’s always exciting as the publishing day nears 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gorgeous Diana! I love the characters and the layers of your writing, plus that incredibly beautiful scenery. The uncle is quite intriguing,I like the building suspense. Good luck on making your deadline, either way, it will be fabulous!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Lana. I’ll make it with this first book and the others will lag a bit. All is good. Thanks for reading and I’m glad you liked it 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love your beautiful writing, Diana…and your book covers are not too shabby either 😉
LikeLiked by 2 people
🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
If any of them can’t do it, i’d love to.
LikeLiked by 2 people
What a sweet offer 🙂 Would you send me an email? dwallacepeach@gmail.com. I’d love to have your feedback if you have the time. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
absolutely.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great excerpt, Diana – it had me hooked and I was carried away by your words and story…so many questions raised in just this small segment. Once again, just love your character names! Best of luck for March publication! 😀
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Annika. I had hoped to have them all out in March, but that’s not going to happen. This one might be. Happy Writing, my friend. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Fascinating! Waiting for March! Good Luck!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks! I’m looking forward to kicking this series off. It’s been fun sharing the characters 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great peek into this new book, Diana! I should be able to do a 30-day turnaround. Let me know if you still need betas!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on K Y R O S M A G I C A and commented:
Diana Wallace Peach with information about her new 4 book fantasy series The Rose Shield. Please reblog, tweet and share as Diana is looking for beta readers.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks again for sharing 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure Diane. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi, don’t think I can commit to a 30 day turnaround at the moment as I am editing my novel, but wishing you much success. Shall reblog to spread the word. x
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Marje. I got a nice response. This blogging community is so generous, it’s wonderful. I completely understand the timing challenges, but appreciate the thought and the reblog! 😀 Happy Editing and have a great weekend. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Diana.Oh by the way I am now doing Author Spotlights and or interviews on my blog if you are interested. My email is marjma2014@gmail.com
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’ll send you an email soon! Thanks for the invite 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ooh, sounds like another exciting book coming from you Diana. I know it will be a smash success, your have an impeccable style of writing. I’ll be taking my long awaited blogging break in February and most of March, but I’m certain you’ll have plenty of beta readers. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
A lovely response, Debby. I hope you are taking a restful break and doing something fun with the hubby. Breaks are so necessary, especially with the amount of blogging you do. The rest of life needs our undivided attention now and then. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s a fact Diana. I’m still here til 1st week Feb. Just getting everything written and scheduled so I don’t have a mountain of work to face when I get back. Organizational skills kicking in! Lol 🙂 ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Diana, I like each character and don’t believe I have missed one of your small enticing pieces of your serie’s new addition. Your descriptions are always unique and display originality. Kadan has his reasons for nearly plummeting downward, I was holding my breath!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Kadan has a few issues to work out, for sure. Thanks for reading all my little vignettes. These have been fun to do. Maybe one or two more before the book comes out 😀
LikeLike
Really exciting!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Jennie. It’s fun to get to this stage in the project. Covers start at the end of the month too! Thanks for reading 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m glad you got the interest you needed, as I’m still slogging through your wonderful books, but that is on a temporary hold while I finish my next neighborhood book club book. Thanks for the introduction to Kadan!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh and I’ll leave some reviews for you (are they on Amazon?) when I finish the series.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yup. On Amazon. Reviews are always appreciated! Thanks so much. xx Hugs xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Kathryn 🙂 I got a generous response, which is so sweet. Happy Reading and have a great weekend. Stay cozy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Can hardly wait for the release.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, Steph. You’re so sweet. Hope you are well and had a wonderful holiday season. Have a great weekend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome. Had a nice holiday season but I’m so glad they are over. It’s almost like a part of me holds my breath until New Years Day. 😀
LikeLike
Hi Steph. I found this comment in my spam folder with a bunch of others. WordPress is playing tricks on me. I always look forward to the end of the holidays too. Time to take a deep breath! Thanks for the visit, my friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Diana, no worries. WordPress does have some impish ways😉Sometimes I swear I’ve seen a comment and it disappears only to reappear later. It’s always a pleasure visiting you. Have a nice weekend!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Steph. Lovely weekend to you as well 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Art by Rob Goldstein and commented:
D. Wallace Peach presents Kadan and a chance to become a beta reader for her new book.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ha ha! Thanks for sharing, Robert. I got a lovely response already. Bloggers are wonderfully generous souls. I’m glad you enjoyed my intro to Kadan. Stay warm and have a great weekend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I wanted very badly to offer but I don’t make commitments unless I’m certain I can keep them. I hear a gentle voice in Kadan — and the name, Kadan creates a visual impression of how he might look and move.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Robert. I know that timing often prevents me from volunteering, so no sweat at all. When it’s ready for the public, I’d be happy to send you a complimentary Advance Copy. Kadan has a rough start, but he finds his way. Thanks for all your support, my friend. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’d love it if you dd. Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great writing, Diana. You have such a glorious imagination. I’d love to participate since I do enjoy your writing so much, but the time frame isn’t there right now. And I am working on something kind of substantial. Next time?
LikeLiked by 2 people
Absolutely no problem at all, Steven. I got a nice response already. I’m thrilled that you have something substantial that you’re working on! (I’m assuming you are talking about writing). Thanks for reading my snippet and for the the lovely words. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very welcome. (And yes, about writing.) 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yay 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
I always love your writing Diana!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much, Lynn. Writing gives me a lot of joy, so it’s wonderful when others get a kick out of it, too. 😀 Stay warm, my friend.
LikeLike
I enjoyed the Bone Wall and would gladly read for you if you need more volunteers. Mid-Feb works fine with my schedule.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much, Allie. I’m going to give it a day or two and then will send an email. I so appreciate the offer and will glady reciprocate. ❤
LikeLike
98,000 words ? And I’m sure, they are all “choice”. Would love to help, but timing is not right for your turn-around. All the best for another success, D. 💖
LikeLiked by 2 people
No problem at all, Van. ❤ I just thought I'd throw it out there to see if I get a few bites. Heading down in the final stretch, which is exciting. Have a great day, my friend. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
This sounds like it would be right up my alley, wish I could beta read for you. Alas, I am swamped right now and I don’t think a 30 day turn-around would be possible. Hope you find the readers you need!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much, Russell. I’m sure I’ll find the helpers I need, so no worries. I’m only looking for a few. So glad the writing appeals to you! I hope someday you’ll get to read it 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reading is on the very top of my list this year. I have neglected books, have spent too much time blogging. I love books, always have and always will.
I am not sure if I would be the right “beta reader” since I have strict rules when I read and high expectations. There is no time to waste. Me to book: “If you haven’t gotten my full attention by page 50, onto the donation pile you go.”
I would love to read a book written by you, but I am not a big Fantasy fan. However, just like almost everybody else I like “The Hobbit” “The Lord of the Rings” “Eragon” “Game of Thrones” and I loved “The Mist of Avalon.”
Your writing is great as always.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’re so funny. You say you’re not a fantasy fan and then list a bunch of classics off. For me, good writing will grab me no matter the genre. And high expectation is fine – I’m that way too. Let’s see if I can tempt you with this one when it’s done. No pressure to put it up there with Tolkien, but I’d be tickled if you gave it a try. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh I would love to, I am just not sure if I will be a good beta reader.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’d probably be just fine. Picky is good in my book. I’ll send you a note and you can think about it. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
too late, I just emailed you 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Diana, you are such a good writer! I am so excited for you!!! I’ll email you 😀
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Antonia. I’m so glad you enjoyed my little glimpses into the book. And thanks for the email! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve never been a great reader at the best of times and these days have difficulties with concentration. Fantasy and sci-fi wouldn’t be my first choice but I’m planning on dipping my toe in The Sorcerer’s Garden and if it survives attack from spades, forks and the hose pipe serpent I’ll be back for more. I’m confident the quality of your writing, D will keep me safe. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much, Phil. You might like The Sorcerer’s Garden. I certainly hope so!! Lol. Reading time is hard to come by, for sure. If I can get through a book a month it’s a miracle. Have a great day and happy writing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful writing, Diana. It sounds like this series is off to a great start. 🙂 — Suzanne
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks for the visit, Suzanne. I hope so. This first book is getting close. Lots of work left to do on the next three. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gripping writing Diana, and a strong character.
xxx Massive Hugs xxx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Awww. You are sweet, David. It was challenging to find a Kadan scene that could stand alone and wasn’t too long. Glad you liked it 🙂 Mega Hugs back at you. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Another intriguing character.
PS March will arrive sooner than you think LOL
LikeLiked by 3 people
I know!! I don’t think I’m too far off on this first book, but the rest of the series still needs mega work.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Judging by the quality you’ve shown, you must be enjoying them and that’s half the battle. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
I love writing, Richard. Everything about it. 😀
LikeLiked by 2 people
Great characters! I sent you an email 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much, Erika. I’ve enjoyed doing these character intros. It’s kind of fun getting this close to wrapping up the first book 🙂 I’ll be in touch. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
I haven’t read the excerpt yet. I will soon. The characters are intriguing.
Being a beta reader sounds interesting. I’d be happy to give it a try, if you’ll have me. But I must warn you that I have never done it before but I’m good at finding mistakes especially plot and flow mistakes. Your choice, you’ll have plenty of volunteers.
Let me know and good luck
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much for the kind offer. I’m hoping that there’s plenty of interest, but will limit the number to a handful. Either way, I’ll be sending out Advance Reader Copies prior to publication – the fun without the homework. 😀 Thanks again for reading and the offer!
LikeLiked by 1 person
No problem.😊
And thanks.
LikeLiked by 2 people