Back in April, I wrote of my “mull” time—that interval during the month of March when I am away from my writing. It is a processing period that adds color and richness to the story I am working on. Then, of the time when I return to my manuscript, I wrote, “April and May is when I see my bounty. These are often the months when a good book becomes a great book. When I finally turn in my manuscript around June 1, the richness of the month apart colors every part of the story.” This year in particular, that creative break paid off. The last two months, I have spent hour after hour relaying onto the computer screen the story that is taking place in my mind. There have been twists and turns I never anticipated, and scenes of incredible action that have left me excited and breathless.

Now the day has finally arrived. The manuscript for the third Marcus Ryker novel is complete. I’ve typed The End, hit Send, and it’s now in the hands of Tyndale House Publishers. I am thrilled about Ryker’s new adventure. During the writing of this story, I’ve gotten to know his character so much better. I’ve discovered more how he thinks and reacts in different situations. The heart behind the rough exterior has continued to grow. I know that for some, the relationship between author and character can seem odd and even a little schizophrenic. The best way I can describe it is that a character is not something you create; it’s someone you discover. And it’s like any friendship—the more time you spend together, the more you learn to appreciate the other person.

There are many who have asked me whether this series will be a trilogy like my previous series. The answer is no. I’m enjoying Ryker too much. There are still layers of his onion that I need to peel away. Already I’m laying out the plot for the fourth book. Much of the preparation centers around prayer and watching the news.

Now begins the long wait until the book’s release. It will be an active wait with the editing process still ahead of me. After we complete that detailed exercise, there is the title development, cover design, and book layout. By fall, advance reader copies (ARCs) will ship to reviewers. All in anticipation of the release of the new novel next spring.

I’ve been so blessed to read the wonderful reviews and comments about The Persian Gamble. They are a great encouragement, especially during those long hours in front of the computer. For those of you who haven’t read either of the Marcus Ryker books, pick up one or both of them for some good beach or cabin reading this summer. And for those of you who are all caught up on Marcus Ryker’s adventures, you have only nine months left to wait!

-Joel