In which i launch a book and survive a q&a

So. . .  The Forged Empire is officially out in the world.
And I’m still trying to wrap my head around it.

Releasing the final book in a trilogy is strange. A bit like holding your breath and letting it out all at once. This book broke me a little. In a good way, I think. There’s one scene in particular—and if you’ve read it, you probably know which one—that absolutely wrecked me while writing. I made myself cry. I knew it was coming. I chose it long ago when I first started writing the series. Still cried. And yes, I felt a little silly crying over something I wrote, but I guess that means I pulled it off?

In the middle of the launch blitz, I also did a live Q&A, which is very not me. I’m more of a “write the thing, hide in a hoodie” kind of author than a camera-ready personality. But weirdly? I had fun. Playing games while answering your questions helped me forget I was supposed to be on. And honestly, your kindness and enthusiasm made it so much easier. Thank you for showing up, even if I was mildly awkward and entirely underprepared.

And then this literary review came in from Independent Book Review:

“It is endearing how Meredith doesn't pretend to have it all figured out. We see her stumble, question herself, and grow in ways that feel earned rather than rushed.”

Reading that line felt like someone had peeled back the layers and understood not just Meredith, but me. Because I definitely don’t have it all figured out. But I care deeply about stories where growth feels earned, not easy. Messy, not polished.

Another line that stuck with me?

“Every decision she makes feels like it could split something open.”
​
Honestly, I couldn’t ask for a better reflection of this story's finale.

And now comes the part where I juggle marketing for the finally finished series (because apparently books don’t just sell themselves—rude), while continuing to plot the outline for the next project I mentioned last time: a dark romantasy duology called Of Beasts and Blood. More to come on that.

—Sam ♡