A friend asked me recently what my inspiration was for writing. Not just Salt, Sky, and Fire but my nonfiction books as well.
“My life.” I told her.
A long time ago, in another century and state, I was an animal trainer at the San Diego Zoo. I really did cuddle with wolves and cheetahs. And yes, call hawks out of the sky. I loved it. Every minute.
But I eventually moved on, as sometimes happens. Leaving me with a lifetime of memories and experiences that begged for some form of expression.
Sure, I could tell story after story of things that happened during my time there but—it was more than twenty years ago and all “my” animals are gone. Do you really want to hear an old GenX’ers tales from back in the day?
Rather than telling my stories, I wanted to write about the magic of the human-animal bond. To share that world, not only with the ones who have experienced it, because – hey, we already get it.
IFYKYK, am I right?
I wanted to share that realm with folks who have never felt that, never experienced that bonding, and show them the magic of those connections.
Okay, we don’t have magic irl such as Ozora wields in Salt, Sky, and Fire but much of the emotive language in the book around the bond comes straight from direct experience. And I know I’m not the only one.
Anyone who’s spent any amount of time working with their animal companion has felt a connection that goes beyond words, and exists purely in the emotive, energetic realm.
That’s why I wrote Salt, Sky, and Fire.
And I am thrilled to share it now with … you.
Like so many, I started a Patreon. I know, I know…the subscriber economy is here and in full swing.
I get it. I do. It’s why Salt, Sky, and Fire is free to read in it’s entirety as long as you’re patient. Right here on Royal Road. New chapters release every Tuesday and Thursday until February 8th.
But for those of you who have to know right now how it ends – there’s options. Right here on Patreon. Head on over the Shop tab and you can purchase the manuscript as a PDF. No frills, just words.
Or subscribe. Subscribers get a whole bunch of additional benefits. Like a thank-you mention when Salt, Sky, and Fire is officially published. Plus a copy of the final manuscript at publication. Plus a welcome gift sent snail mail. Plus…well, you have to check out what’s offered.
Whichever way you choose – please enjoy Salt, Sky, and Fire. There’s lots more to come so sign up for my newsletter so you never miss out.
Serena Dracis 