So, 2024 for me, in a writing sense, was quite productive. I always have this feeling of not doing enough, but my goal—as usual—was to write 300,000 words. That’s a lofty target, and I don’t think I’ve ever hit it. But in 2024, I wrote 206,724 words, which I’m proud of.

The first three books of *The Song of the Ellydian* were published in 2024, which is a huge milestone. *The Fallen Apprentice* had the best launch I’ve ever had for a single book. So, thank you to everyone who supported me—it truly means the world to me and gives me the motivation to keep writing stories. I tend to write these books for myself, but I’m so glad people enjoy them.

As of the end of the year, Book 4, *The Dark Synths,* is sitting at 57,681 words—so it’s more than halfway done. This one has been incredibly fun to write, and I hope you’ll enjoy it when it comes out. I’m aiming for a release next May.

Vegas was, as always, fantastic and super inspiring. It was a bit slower this year with fewer attendees, but that actually worked out well. I got to spend time with some of the bigger authors I’ve admired for a long time, including meeting some of my author mentors.

I’ve also developed a new game plan to stay productive with both writing and the business side of things. I think 2025 is going to be a stellar year. My plan includes at least four releases: two will be Books 4 and 5 in *The Song of the Ellydian* series. I’ll also be launching a new pen name in a new genre with two other books. Those are a secret for now since they’re different, but if you’re really curious, let me know, and I might share more when the time comes.

On the personal side, I love my job as a head chef and hope to keep doing it for many years. My wife and I are planning a couple of mini trips this year, and I’m still figuring out where to go for a big trip abroad. Traveling is always the best time for brainstorming for me. I’ve already booked my ticket for Vegas again—I bought it as soon as the conference ended!

I plan to keep reading within my genre, diving into bestsellers and some smaller indie titles I know are great. I’ve also been playing some amazing video games with incredible stories, which is always inspiring. I just love getting lost in those worlds.

On the business side, 2024 was an improvement over 2023, and I’m hopeful 2025 will be even better with all the releases and support. *The Song of the Ellydian* is my first series over five books long, so it’s taking time, but I love it so much. I think it’s shaping up to be a great series with a fulfilling, dramatic ending.

My main goal is to stay consistent and keep writing—that seems to be the most important part of this career.

Thank you so much for listening, and I hope you have an amazing 2025. Good things are on the horizon!