The official title of my 2026 literary release.

I’m a fiend for an origin story, especially if it’s one about a villain. I’ve always had a soft spot for a story’s antagonist, wanting to know more of what makes them so audacious, diabolical, or only human.

That is why I have thrown all my writing energy into bringing to life a project dear to my heart. Introducing to you all, Darkness in the Flesh - The backstory of Gatira, the antagonist from Still Waters Run Deep.

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Who is Gatira?

Gatira has been a character I resonated with in some ways. Those ways may not be familiar or admirable, especially in the way she is presented as the villain in Still Waters Run Deep, my debut novel. But there has always been a deep yearning and curiosity to explore more of her psyche, and the mysterious dark elemental powers she wields.

Behind her formidable and stoic exterior, was a young girl struggling to make sense of the world she lived in. She was never welcomed in her home, and had to fight for her right to respect and peace. The story I wanted to tell shows her journey navigating key moments of her adolescence. It is full of emotion, all the painful and joyous facets of it. It is perhaps a cautionary tale of the human experience too, as not all that people present themselves to be is who they really are.

So, let’s talk timelines

Writing this post in mid-September 2025, I am currently sitting at approximately 82,000 words. Not bad considering I started writing this end of 2023… yes I am a self proclaimed writing slow-poke. Not wanting to rush quality, I promise you all it is worth the wait. My aim is to reach 100k words in November this year. My hope is by then the story will be finished, but will see how I go with that.

My next steps will be to finish my manuscript, self edit, engage Alpha and Beta readers late 2025 or early 2026. I will be sending to my editor June 2026, and from there, the release will be imminent. I do not have an exact date yet, but the timeline is set.

Some FAQs

Why write a backstory for Gatira, rather then focusing on getting Still Waters Run Deep Book II out?

Short answer: Because I want too! The longer answer is that inspiration hit me, hard. I originally wanted to write another short story, similar to Elara and the Passing. I had envisioned approximately 10k words, written as diary entries. But as I explored Gatira’s story, I realised I wanted to delve deeper into her character. This is my first attempt at writing in first person, which has been an enjoyable exercise so far.

Will we be getting Still Waters Run Deep Book II?

Yes. Timewise, I cannot tell you when this might be released. I would love to say end of 2027, but that might be ambitious. Good things take time, and I promise I will put my all into this project.

Setting the mood

If you would like to add Darkness in the Flesh to your ‘Want to Read’ shelf on Goodreads, you can by visiting this link.

There will be some graphics, illustrations and general promo being revealed soon, but there is a playlist if you would like to get an insight into the mood and vibes of this tale.

Finally, I will leave you with this illustration I created back when I wanted to write a short story instead. It was a trial front cover. Still, I think it represents a good visual ‘tone’ of the story overall. Bring on Darkness in the Flesh, coming 2026.

Trial cover for Darkness in the Flesh, illustrated by me. Check out more of my illustration work on my instagram @ismonia

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