Seven weeks ago, I released my first novel, Waking in Sheol.
For many readers, the journey begins with a click—an Amazon search, a book cover that calls to them, and a shipment that arrives with promise. Simple, right?

But behind that simplicity lies a long passage.
It took me fifteen months to outline, write, and edit the manuscript. I designed the cover—front, back, and spine—crafted the back blurb, selected the trim size, and formatted the book for Kindle e-book, paperback, and hardback. Then I sent my literary offering to Kindle Direct Publishing and waited for approval.

As an author, I want you to know: I see you, even if I can’t name you.

When someone purchases my novel, I receive a report—a royalty amount, a confirmation of sale. But I don’t receive your name, your email, or any way to thank you directly. That’s the quiet quirk of authorship.

So this is my offering: a general thank-you to all who felt drawn to my tale and took the step to purchase it.

- To the 1,000 readers who marked Waking in Sheol on Goodreads: I welcome you to my mythical world.

- To the 100 who received a copy through my promotion: you are now citizens of Eldriko.

- To those who purchased through Amazon: thank you for your support and patronage.

If you’d like to stay connected, I invite you to join my email list. Just drop me a note at:
📨 m.alden.phillips01@gmail.com

I appreciate all of you.

— M. Alden Phillips