S. W. Raine

Can you believe it’s been seven years since I launched my author blog? Today marks my official author blog anniversary, and I can hardly believe how far it’s come! What started as a way to hold myself accountable during the early editing days of Project Elementals (yes, I worked on The Elemental’s Guardian first before shelving it in favor of The Techno Mage) has become one of my favorite parts of this magical writing adventure.

Since that very first post on May 4th, 2018, I’ve published three books, connected with readers from all over through social media and beyond, and written over 100 blog posts. (If you’re curious, you can read my first post here. Please note that it includes references to Neil Gaiman, whose name I now mention with caution in light of recent allegations.) And yes, I’ve kept up a minimum of one blog post every single month (and two a month since late 2021, because apparently I enjoy tempting fate with deadlines) since the beginning!

While there’s no new book release to shout about this time, there’s still plenty to celebrate because this past year was filled with magic, mischief, and growth.

What I’ve Been Up To This Year

It wouldn’t be an author blog anniversary post without a peek at what’s been going on behind the scenes this past year.

I had hoped to release The Gatekeeper’s Portal in March 2024… and then maybe March 2025… but burnout and task paralysis had other plans.

That said, I’m still working hard on it! I’ve been editing based on beta reader feedback, line editing, and tightening up every scene. My goal? Get this book into the world this year—for real this time!

I also attended more events this year than ever before—including two amazing steampunk-themed events that totally lit up my creative engine.

I’ve been cooking up something I’m really excited about: a steampunk choose-your-own-adventure short story series to release between novels. Mischief is coming.

Lessons, Branding, and a Bit of Magic

This Pantser gave plotting a go in November using the 5-act structure. I made it to Chapter 5 before the whole thing derailed. So, lesson learned: pantsing is still my default setting, and that’s okay!

Also, I’ve spent years learning about “book brand” vs. “personal brand.” And this year, something finally clicked with the personal brand part.

Thanks to my ever-patient author coach and my social media manager, I finally understood what it means to infuse me into everything I do. So, if you’ve noticed more magic, more mischief, and more adventure in my blog, newsletter, or social media lately, that’s intentional. That’s me.

I want readers to stop by and wonder: What magical or mischievous thing is she up to this time? (And the answer is usually editing, video games, or maybe a movie or two.)

Meanwhile, I’ve also learned a lot, especially about SEO and blog post optimization. (Splitting posts into “optimized sections”? Definitely harder than it looks!) But it’s all part of the process.

Looking Ahead to Year Eight

Right now, I’m deep in beta reader feedback and doing line and copy edits for my upcoming release, The Gatekeeper’s Portal. It’s coming. I swear. This year, for real. Mischief be damned.

I’m also planning a 5th anniversary translation of The Techno Mage. So if you’ve been waiting to read it en français (or just want an excuse to celebrate again), stay tuned!

Seven years in, this blog still means a lot to me. Whether you’ve been reading since 2018 or just wandered in through a magical portal, thank you for being part of the journey.

Here’s to seven years of blogging, three books, and one author who refuses to give up—no matter how many plot derailments or mischievous distractions get in the way.

See you in the next post (or perhaps in the middle of a magical adventure)!

Raine