*deep breath*

Anyway! This epilogue takes us back to Hartleigh Castle, where Denna is recovering from the Ardesian assault; the excerpt concerns Cora and the Order of the Asp, and hopefully answers a few questions, while posing a few more. Can’t reveal everything now, can I?

A tremendous thanks to those of you who’ve been patient, and those who have stuck around. I’ve had such fun telling this story and sharing it with you. I’ll keep you updated as to possible other podcasts in the future, as well as current projects, steampunk and otherwise.

Cheers!

*head, desk*

Anyway. I have to hope that enough people figured that out, or had listened to it other ways, or can simply follow along. I’m assuming some folks have…

Agh. I periodically check the feed, but I couldn’t tell that it was downloading the wrong file. I wish I had caught this earlier…

Well. There you go. The last two chapters in one long podcast. The reason? I was definitely in a groove recording this, and I wanted to keep that energy going throughout the recording. Since the two chapters are connected to one another, simply a continuation of the scene, I thought I’d read it all at one go.

There will be, as I mentioned, an epilogue. But, by and large, this is the actual ending of the book.

I’m not sure what to say, really. The story, at this point, rather has to speak for itself, doesn’t it? Admittedly this is the most nervous I’ve ever been to release a podcast, because this is where the rubber meats the road, where the grease meets the gear. It’s the end of this part of the story.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this little adventure as much as I have.

I’m just crankin’ these out, huh? Well, finally (finally!) the audio issue is resolved. The setup works, and works so much better than what I had before. I cannot tell you the frustration! I hope you’ll hear the difference in the podcast, as I didn’t have to mask the track with a million filters to keep out the background noise; I definitely feel as if it’s much more authentic to the way I sound, and of a quality of which I’m more proud. Eventually, I may go back and record all the tracks again, just to get consistency. But when I started this podcast in April of 2008, I don’t think I even contemplated what it’d be like when I reached this point…

Well. Two chapters to go. That feels weird! What on earth will I do when it’s over?!

Once again, here we are. I’ve been having a little bit of frustration with my recording equipment, and hopefully by the end of this week I’ll have a totally new setup: phantom power here I come! I’m working on ways to keep background noise to a minimum, which has been an issue throughout the podcast, but I did my best.

As I mention in the podcast itself, music is by my beautiful and talented sister, Llana Barron. You’ll be hearing this music again, so keep your ears open. Only three more chapters to go friends, and this ride will come to an end. Thanks so much for listening along the way…

Without further ado, here is Chapter 25. Once again we are back at Vezina Ranch with the Order of the Oak, and Cora and her friends. I’ve got a few notes at the end of the chapter as usual, so I’ll leave you to listen.

Just a few more chapters to go…

Yes, another chapter! I had meant to get this out on my birthday, the 14th, as a sort of hobbitish mathom gesture. But that didn’t quite work out.

I’m in the process of editing #29, so look for that in a few days (or even earlier, depending on the cooperation of my child!).

I am just about back on a biweekly schedule again with the remaining chapters of The Aldersgate! This is cause for celebration. Up to Chapter 23 already, which is a scarce six from the Very End. How’d that happen?

I hope you do enjoy!

(Yes… I realized I said “chapter 24″ instead of “chapter 23″ – the problem is I decided on a re-order, all last minute like. I will fixify this… just not exactly right now… soon!)

No, don’t adjust your feed. You’re reading it right: twenty-five episodes and counting! *throws confetti*

It just so turns out that today’s Alderpod is a little divergence from the norm, but within the realm of the Aldersgate Cycle nonetheless. It is a reading, or I should say performance, of my short story “Castledeck and the Arabella” which takes place some three years hence. Performed and produced by Arri Gaffer, with Anima Zabaleta providing the sweet voices of the lady characters, it’s quite an exciting take on the story!

I hope you enjoy listening as much as I did, and stay tuned for a #26, swiftly making its way to your ears…

Finding a little time on my hands this rainy day, I have recorded Chapter 22, Alderpod #24. I am trying hard to make up for lost time, and now that the book is creeping toward the final climax, that’s only fitting.

So, without further adieu!

After much delay, Alderpod #23 is here. The lateness is regretful, but necessary. As you may have read, my sister is fighting Hodgkin Lymphoma, so I–as well as my family–have been out to California. I’ve been twice since March, and my parents have been going on alternate weeks.

That said, there’s been little time to record.

Your continued patience is appreciated!

I was going to do a special video podcast of this one, but that did not pan out. Instead, it only delayed the finishing of this one. Grr. Ah, well. What can be done?

There are a few short noes at the end of this (Brick) chapter, but hey–there’s only ten more chapters to go until the end. Exciting, exciting. The first Alderpod went live on April 22, 2008, so with 22 episodes since then, I’ve almost managed twice a month. I feel accomplished!

As always, let me know if you have any comments/suggestions/likes/dislikes. Remember, this is a podcasted draft, so I’m always looking for input. Special super shoutout to commenter Tintri who has not only read the whole book, but has also given me some incredible feedback!

Alderpod #21: Chapter Nineteen – Princess, Priceless

Alderpod #21 is live! Huzzah. I had this all but uploaded right before I left for the West Coast, and then my son spilled (more) ice water on the MacBook, and we had to let it dry. Unfortunately by the time I left, I had not had a chance to finish it. As per usual, I also recorded #22, or Chapter 20, as well. I have to give it a good listen before I decide if it’s good enough to be released into the world, and it’s long. Long, long. But we’re not talking about 20, we’re talking about 19. Ahem.

This chapter, as I mention in the podcast notes, is about Ellin and Sylvan primarily, and their very odd relationship. Much of The Aldersgate is about the growing of relationships, or in this case re-kindling–The Ward of the Rose is really a little different than that, in that it’s where those relationships are truly tested. Although Ellin tries very hard in this chapter to go the way of a romance novel, as you’ll see, the outcome isn’t exactly as you’d expect in such as situation.

Again, sorry for the delay. Listen, enjoy; let me know what you think!

This is the real Alderpod #20–forgive me if anyone accidentally ends up with doubles, but there was an issue with iTunes taking the song .mp3 rather than the podcast.

If anyone is having issues still, please let me know. Remember you can always find the entire archive at Alderpod.

Huzzah! Another chapter done. Instead of putting my notes here, I decided to go ahead and babble a bit at the end of this one. So stay tuned at the end for ramblings and insight (hopefully…haha).

I’m also going to be releasing some bonus tracks in the next few weeks, where I profile the characters for you, talk about their inspiration, and how the approach has changed from book to book. Alderpod #20 is recorded and ready–I’ve only got to give it a last listen, and queue up the music. Now that the book is done it’s a bit easier to go. Hard to believe that I’m 2/3 through at this point.

Alderpod #18 – Chapter Sixteen: Tarnish

Back to the castle, and the doings of Sylvan and Ellinora (yes a chapter with two…two…TWO PoVs!). News of the dissolution of the Order of the Asp has arrived, and Libby is not happy. Meanwhile, Ellin meets the new Alderdaughters finally arrived from the Territories and beyond, and she even makes a little vialc-laced speech.

And even though Sylvan’s supposed to kill Ellin’s husband, it doesn’t quite turn out that way.

The music is all me, and again I’m turning to real instruments: i.e. my voice and my guitar. So, some harmonies, which I thought made sense considering all the gals in this particular chapter. I had a little trouble with this chapter, but after a ride this morning, and some editing, I’m happier. So, yay.

I’ve already recorded the next chapter, which picks back up with the Asp and Brick, and just have to add music.

And if I should a little more nasal than usual, don’t adjust your speakers. Lingering cold/allergies. Sometimes I just have to keep going, and hope you’ll forgive me!

Alderpod #17 – Chapter Fifteen: Figments

No, you did not read this wrong. Yes, I’ve recorded another chapter. Sure, part of it is because I feel bad I haven’t been able to do the whole biweekly thing with the cold, but more than anything it’s because the chapters meld into one another. It’s a continuation from the last chapter, and I thought since I was on a roll I might as well go with it.

Notes on this chapter: This chapter scared me. I mean, scared. I don’t usually get creeped out by the things I write, having a good distance. But once again, since Emry is a little closer to home for me… well, you’ll hear I suppose. This is when things start to go really wrong. Sure, things have been bad, but this chapter is the hinge on which one of the main mechanisms balance: this is when we get a glimpse into just what happened in Barnet, we figure out how Cora busted out of her cell, and, in the meantime, learn about the Sibs in general. Gotta balance, right?

Next up is back at Hartleigh Castle with Sylvan and Ellin, and the arrival of the Alderdaughters. Plus: more intrigue, political upheaval, and the first POV chapter from Kaythra Bav. Then, we’ll be heading back to the Order of the Asp… and, unfortunately, things aren’t getting any brighter for Brick, either.

Ah, the joy of apocalyptic steampunk fantasy. But I promise! Not all is boom and doom… this is just the hard part to get through before hope emerges.

Thanks for listening, and look here for more chapters soon!

Alderpod #16 – Chapter Fourteen: The Nithings

Yes, I totally say “fifteen” and “thirteen” at the beginning of this. I will fix. Numbers confuse me even when my mind is running at full capacity. – Yay fixed!!

After a lengthy, and unintentional break, Alderpod is back! Coughing, sputtering, and sneezing are hardly conducive to a successful episode, so I do hope you forgive me.

Notes on this episode: More about the Nithings, and back to Cora. While this isn’t an action-packed episode, I think it’s important to have a little lull. I like the dialogue, and love the Cora/Emry/Ezz dynamic going on in this chapter. It’s more of a character building chapter, I suppose, setting up some important facts for later on in the story. But I like characters! So, there.

And, we’re back to original music, and a new piece. It’s the first music that I imagined playing as Emry, and it’s done with the tenor guitar I acquired a little before the holidays. I finally strung him up, and got him ready to play–I’m happy with the final result, and even managed a string of melody (as I’m a rhythm guitarist!).

Chapter Thirteen – Initiation Rites

Don’t think this is going to be a habit or anything, but here’s the next Alderpod. Yes, indeed–and in spite of the sniffles!

We join up once again with Brick and the Order of the Asp and learn about some of their rather… well, let’s say “unique” practices. This is a chapter that, for some reason, has seen an inordinate amount of editing and still, parts of it don’t make me happy. But such is the way it goes, right? I honestly think that if left to my own devices I would edit until I passed out and there was nothing left on the page but: “The Aldersgate Cycle” Sometimes you have to let it go, knowing it’s not perfect (which is the theme with some of these middle chapters, as the meat of the book… they’ll need more tinkering than the rest).

But enough self-criticism. I do love this chapter, and it was once featured on this site, in fact, though in quite different form. About the only thing that’s the same is the conversation between the woman in the wood and Brick in his dream. I spent a lot of time trying to construct the ritual that went into it this time, giving Renmen a much bigger role, but also adding a touch of humor to it. As Gawen says,  “Of course, the whole vision could have been a metaphor! We shall see.”

Writing the Asp is some of the most fun I have, and now that they’re going rogue (in more ways than one) it’s even more so. One of these day’s I’ll get a post together that gives profiles of all the Aspguard, so you can meet the entire 30-person retinue a little more inimately. For the sake of the narrative, I cut back a little, focusing on the handful of core knights, but they really are a wacky bunch.

As to the next episode, we’re back with Emry and Cora for two chapters, respectively, so there won’t be quite so much bouncing around. I’ll likely record them back-to-back as well, as they both take place in the Nithings and have a lot of… well, needed exposition. It happens to the best of us.

And chapter 12, aka, Alderpod #14…

I discovered cabernet sauvingnon to be a good accompaniment to this particular piece. And I will admit to you two things: the beginning is a little wonky, but bear with me–I spliced two chapters together and combined them for brevity, etc; and also, the pacing is a little on the slow side. But this is intrigue people, not battles and hellfire and all that jazz. Sylvan and Ellin are my romantic leads, the sort that deserve the quiet and calculation of the palace setting.

Ellinora, or Ellin as she’s most usually called, is always a challenge to write, but frequently a surprise. Her perspective really moves the second half of the novel, so get ready to get to know her. I think you’ll enjoy the ride. And it’s high time I introduced my other female POV, don’t you think? (There is a third, oh yes, but that waits, precious.)

…

#15 was recorded, and almost ready to print, when I had some terrible background noise pretty much foul the whole thing up. Now I’ve moved the writing/podcasting station upstairs, I think it’ll make a significant difference both for mental and actual quiet.

At any rate, the next chapter, entitled “Iniation Rites” brings us back to Brick Smithson, the Order of the Asp, and the goings ons of the Territories, before we head back to the Nithings. So stay tuned; I may be late, but I will deliver. Even through the holidays. Or at least, I’ll pass out trying.

Chapter Eleven: Dalliance

Huzzah! After hitting 25K for NaNoWriMo, and the official halfway point, I celebrated by recording Chapter Eleven of The Aldersgate. I won’t be able to stay away come December, I tell you. I’m just itching to get back, though I have to admit I’m very pleased with where Pilgrim of the Sky is at the moment.

This is a Sylvan DeLoire chapter and, although I read it a little too fast I think, I’m happy with the outcome. It’s a hybrid that actually includes some of the most recent edits, since I flipped some chapters around a bit for the podcast. The next installments will introduce Ellinora–the aformentioned princess–and get us up to date with Brick and the Order of the Rose.

Thanks, all, for being patient through out this!

Alderpod 11 – Chapter Nine: Remembrance

Yay! Alderpod #11 is alive and kicking. I must say, due to variety of characters in this particular chapter, I had more fun reading this than any other of the chapters to date. As someone who’s always loved the banter between knights, and the whole concept of a group of traveling companions (who doesn’t, honestly) I find that these Asp chapters are sincerely enjoyable. In fact, on account of that, the whole Brick narrative has been edited and written far ahead of the others. Which is odd, if I think about it, because I would never say that Brick himself is as “close” to me as say, Emry and Cora are. He’s not at all like me, but he’s easy for me to write.

At any rate, I hope you enjoy it even a little bit as much as I did making it. Again, it contains some original music, this one a little more “industrial” in parts than classical, with some beats and whatnot. I thought it fit with the Asp, myself.

The next installment is awaiting editing (though I’m revisiting some of the same problems in this one as in the #9… grr), so there shouldn’t be so long of a wait. In the job search I’m finding a surprising amount of time to read and record.

Alderpod #10: Chapter Eight – Below

Podcasting has been moving at the speed of light as of late; not only do I have #10 ready, but I also have recorded and finished #11, and #12 is just awaiting editing. Funny what happens when you don’t have work every morning. Haha.

A little bit about #10. First of all: how awesome is it that I’ve hit double digits? I’m excited. Ten is also a chapter that, if you follow along ’round these parts, I’ve had some issues with. I won’t really go into it, but it’s been a lesson in letting go. Because, honestly, sometimes you have to just let the story fly, understand that things may change a little (in this case, pacing more than anything), and recognize that, in the end, you can’t be perfect. I’m far from perfect.

Ten is still one of my favorite chapters, however, due to a meetup between two characters that, until this point, haven’t met. I remember writing this for the first time, and literally giggling as I did it. Crossing wires like that can be so fun.

Anywho. Look for #11 this weekend, and perhaps #12 early next week. I’ve made leaps and bounds editing, so I want to bring the podcast up to speed with the rest of the book. Hooray.

I now introduce to you, officially, Sylvan DeLoire, bastard nephew of Queen Maelys, assassin, and ladykiller (figuratively, and occasionally literally). And, by way of a strange little old woman, the Aldersgate, too. Sylvan is one of my favorite characters to write, not in the least because he’s so unapologetically selfish. I suppose writing without filters is enjoyable. And I hope that translates back to you, too.

Alderpod #10 is ready to roll, too, so look for that late this week!

Alderpod #9 – Chapter Seven: Sylvan DeLoire

Alderpod

I present to you now Alderpod #8 – Chapter Six – Man of the Open Road, mostly completed… There are sections of this that may or may not be in the final version… but I have always liked this chapter as it is all about Emry; he’s the only one with dialogue in the whole thing, and most of it involves talking to himself (a habit I took from my own idiosyncrasies).

You’ll notice that there’s music throughout the whole podcast, but it’s really intended just for this episode. Music plays such an important part in Emry’s life, and in this chapter, that I thought I’d try to weave it in.

That said, I’m super excited about the next few chapters, and once I get my voice back up and running you’ll have a chance to experience more of the story. We’re moving toward the point where things really start to pick up, both in the macro and micro plots. You’ll be introduced to a new character, too, for the next podcast..

(I just noticed that the intro got cut off… I’ll fix that later. But the whole chapter is in tact at the moment, so I’ll leave it be for the time being)

Alderpod

Chapter Five, Alderpod #7 (or six… if you start at 000…) is live!

Shoot-outs and airships are just the beginning.

This chapter introduces one of my favorite characters to date, Sir Gawen of Fenlie. His analogue is, of course, Sir Gawain, of the Greene Knight fame. I’ve always had a soft spot for that Orkney lad, and well… here he is. The Red Giant.

Not to be confused with the Jolly Green one.

Props to anyone who can spot the other huge Arthurian allusion going on.

Alderpod #7 – Chapter Five – Attention

Alderpod - The Aldersgate Cycle Podcast

Huzzah! Alderpod #6 is up, and it takes off where #2 left off, with Cora Grey returning home just as the Order of the Oak arrive in Vell during the Blooming Day dance. This one took a while to get together, as yours truly is an occasional technological nightmare.

I’ll be posting a .pdf to accompany it, as well, in the coming days.

Click the image or clicky here.

It’s here!

Alderpod #5 – Chapter Four: The Bard

I am super excited about Podcast #5. I’m learning as I go along here, and have a new microphone that, at first was more headache than anything. But now, with a pop screen I think the quality is much better.

This is the introduction of Emry Roy, the bard in my story. Now, of all my characters, he’s closest to heart for me. He’s one of the characters that when I write, I simply melt into. I don’t have to think it out too much (like with Brick or with Denna), and the writing goes lightning fast. In order to do him justice, I also wanted there to be music to accompany this podcast.

There are two original pieces of music during the podcast. The new theme during opening and closing is literally THE theme; that is, it’s “The Aldersgate” which I wrote with the whole book in mind. Using GarageBand I conducted my own little orchestra. The only piece that isn’t “me”–rather, a loop–is the drum track. Everything else is yours truly. I’m quite happy with it, though I’m by no means a composer.

The second piece of music is Emry’s song called “Man of the Open Road”. It’s supposed to sound just a little different, slightly off to our Western ears. I wanted him to sing it, and so you’ll notice the voice isn’t quite mine during the song.

It’s also longer and higher quality compared to the last few podcasts, so I hope to make up for the long break in between 4 and 5 with some more substance. It’s also the most violent chapter so far, so this is not for a younger audience, I don’t think.

If you listen and enjoy, or if you have suggestions, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I’m truly thrilled to be sharing my novel with you, and appreciate the feedback.

I’m also hoping to put up some .pdfs of chapters already read and (mostly) edited. So far there’s been one big change to the Brick story arc, but the rest have stayed the same. As soon as I make those changes, you’ll be able to read the chapters, too.

At any rate! Listen, enjoy.

This is also our first foray into Professor’s workshop, and the introduction of some of the more steampunk elements in this novel. I don’t purport to be a genius when it comes to describing the actual technical aspects, but this is a novel “in progress” after all.

So take a moment, sit back and listen.

Alderpod #3 – Chapter Two: Brick Smithson

Hey, it’s the Internet Age, right? Moreso now than ever, writers have the ability to tap in to an amazing amount of potential readers. Whereas some writers seem afraid of this, I am not. In fact, I want to share–not just my work, but my process–with you. There’s something to be said about the transparency of the writing process, I think.

Much of my inspiration, as I’ve mentioned before, comes from the Internet. I discovered the entire genre of steampunk writing online; I have researched Victorian fashion; I have delved archives of photographs dating from the 1880s; I have scoured Wikipedia! What’s come out in the end, between my imagination and my research, is a hybrid of historical and fantasy steampunk. It’s part chivalric romance, part mystery novel, part fantasy epic, too.

So what am I getting to, exactly? Essentially, I’m working to create connections–bring people together who love steampunk, and love good stories more than anything. Just yesterday I was trolling around Brass Goggles again, and was absolutely inspired by a piece of artwork that just screamed, “Put me in the book!” So I will.

What I’m saying is: Join me on my journey. Listen, comment, learn, advise. This is not a finished, polished work yet. This is my fist finished draft.

Our story starts in the sleepy little town of Vell, in the Territories… here we meet Cora Grey, a girl just discovering her heart, and her own capabilities.

Alderpod #2 – Chapter One: Cora Grey

And in case you missed it:

Alderpod #1 – Prologue

Take a listen! Look for more posts soon.

Listen to Alderpod #1 Here!