Hey friends! Did you know I have a serial fiction that I’m publishing on my substack?

Apparently, some people get writer’s block. I suffer from whatever the opposite of that is— so many ideas, so little time. I needed to take a step back from one of my novel manuscripts to get a clearer picture of editing needs. So, I decided to jump into one of those extra ideas that have been rolling around in my head.

My goal was to give a pretty good quality story out for free so that people could get a real taste of my writing and decide whether I’m their gal. Each week, one or two people decide I’m not the author for them. Isn’t it great that they didn’t have to waste money on a full-length book to discover that? But on the whole, Subscriptions and reads have INCREASED throughout the series, leading to more consistent page reads than ever. So thank you (THANK YOU) if you’ve already read and/or shared!

The Shantyman is maritime magical realism. Huh? Well, it’s historical fiction in a nautical setting, 1741 to be exact. Many of the characters, places, events and songs are real historical references. The story itself is a work of fiction. As always with my writing, there is just a light magical (almost sciencey) element to it— sort of like the wonder of The Secret Garden. No magic system. No elves or goblins—just the magical world of the high seas in the 18th century. (Okay, there may be a mermaid sighting but not in season one:) Deadly storms, warring nations, political conspiracy, pirates and, of course, treasure. Here’s a little more about our Shantyman:

Jack Hudson is the shantyman of the age. His fiddle and voice fuel a crew or settle nerves like magic. In fact, it turns out that the frequencies of his enchanting fiddle can move mountains. Follow Jack around the world as he’s pressed into a plot that requires all the power of music and courage he can muster. Music, conspiracy, treasure, pirates…and a little magical realism make this a unique and enjoyable read.

In addition, I hunted down art—actual, quality classics from Wikimedia Commons instead of just my piddly WC&ink illustrations (not that it stopped me from trying lol). So I’ve officially woven history, maritime adventure, Arthurian mythology, classic art and centuries of sea-faring music into this series. I’d say it’s worth a try!

Season one is completely released. So whether you’re a slow and stead reader or the type who needs to binge and get to the end, here are your links!

Season One Episodes
1 Roll and Go
2 Billy Riley
3 Haul Away Together
4 Mari Lwyd
5 Haul Away, O hear me sing!
6 Lowlands Away

If you’ve given The Shantyman a try, I’d love to hear your favorite bits in the comments. (Be sure to label any spoilers!) If you haven’t, what’s the holdup? Roll and Go, matey!