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September 8, 2020

Stop by Love Bytes this week to check out my recent blog post including an interview, excerpt, and giveaway for my m/m fantasy novel The Magician's Apprentice. This is a great chance to learn a little about what makes me tick as a writer, as well as get a chance to grab a free copy of the book. This is the prequel novel in the Dragon Mage Chronicles series: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

Find the interview and giveaway here:

https://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/09/08/blog-post-incl-interview-excerpt-giveaway-j-a-jaken-the-magicians-apprentice-dragon-mage-chronicles/


September 7, 2020

Wardrake is up for book of the week on Love Bytes! I'd love it if you would stop by and give me a vote:

     https://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/09/06/love-bytes-reviews-book-of-the-week-poll-august-29-september-4-2020/

As a reminder, Wardrake is now available at these links:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC4_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1037588

     Buy Link (paperback): getBook.at/DMC4_pb

You can find out more about the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series here: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

September 6, 2020

I just got notification that the paperback version of Wardrake is now live! You can find it on Amazon here:

     Buy Link (paperback): getBook.at/DMC4_pb

The ebook version of the book can be found at these links:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC4_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1037588


Wardrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book IV)
by J.A. Jaken

Novel (91,000 words)
Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance


Andrei and Jander return home to the city of Vallerin with the grimmest possible news and tell their king to do what he can to prepare his people for war. Kirin is heading toward the capital with a legion behind him, and he is determined to take revenge both on Andrei and on the apprentice he believes supplanted him in his former master's heart. This time, with the might of an entire dragon army at his command, he very well might succeed.

If you're not familiar with the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series, you can find more info about it here: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

September 5, 2020

Wardrake has received its first review on the Love Bytes book review blog: 4.5 stars, which is fantastic!!! Here is the link where you can read it:

     https://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/09/04/release-day-review-wardrake-by-j-a-jaken/

Also, I've updated the Dragon Mage Chronicles series webpage to include links to a preview for each of the books. You can check it out here if you're interested: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

I've been getting a lot of messages from readers letting me know that they're reading this newest book and are really enjoying the series, which I appreciate more than I can possibly say. I've been starving for feedback on the stories I write, and having that connection with the people who are reading them just makes me light up like Christmas inside. ^_^ I'm so happy that this book appears to be starting out strong and that people are enjoying it.

I feel both happy and sad to have Wardrake finally published. I love this series so very much, and it's a bit of a shock to realize that it's over at last. I absolutely adore Jander and Andrei and Gabrielle and Boaen and Tanith and Alluin... and even Kirin, in his own way. All of these characters have become incredibly dear to me over the years I've been working on writing this series. Publishing this final book feels a little bit like saying goodbye, like sending a child who's all grown up now out into the world to fend for himself. It's a feeling of tremendous accomplishment, but at the same time it's bittersweet.

But what a journey it has been! I'm so grateful for all of you who've given me encouragement throughout all of this, who bought the books and sent me comments to let me know that you've been sucked into this world as much as I have. That's what I strive to do as a writer, to create worlds and characters that will connect with people. By that measurement, it feels as though this series has been a resounding success. ♥♥♥

September 4, 2020

It's release day!!! *blows party horns and throws confetti*

Wardrake, the final book in the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series, is now available. This feels like such an incredible accomplishment to me, and I am so excited to be able to share the conclusion of Jander and Andrei's story with you at last.

You can find the book here:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC4_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1037588

The paperback version is in its final stages of production and will be available very soon. I'll post an announcement just as soon as I'm notified that it's available.

For those of you who might not be familiar with the Dragon Mage Chronicles series, it tells the story of Jander Teregnan, a young man with a rare gift of magic that sets him and the renowned Andrei Teresh, the man who has become both his master in the magic and his lover, on a desperate quest to defend their kingdom, their home, and each other. You can find out more about the series by clicking here:

     bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles


Wardrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book IV)
by J.A. Jaken

Novel (91,000 words)
Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance


Andrei and Jander return home to the city of Vallerin with the grimmest possible news and tell their king to do what he can to prepare his people for war. Kirin is heading toward the capital with a legion behind him, and he is determined to take revenge both on Andrei and on the apprentice he believes supplanted him in his former master's heart. This time, with the might of an entire dragon army at his command, he very well might succeed.


August 30, 2020

The Love Bytes blog recently ran a promo post for my upcoming release, Wardrake (Book IV in the Dragon Mage Chronicles series). Check it out here:

     http://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/08/27/spotlight-incl-exclusive-excerpt-j-a-jaken-wardrake-the-dragon-mage-chronicles-4/

Wardrake is all set for release on September 4, 2020. It is currently available for preorder at these links:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC4_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1037588

The Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series tells the story of Jander Teregnan, a young man with a rare gift of magic that sets him and the renowned Andrei Teresh, the man who has become both his master in the magic and his lover, on a desperate quest to defend their kingdom, their home, and each other. Find out more about the series by clicking here:

     bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles


August 26, 2020

Check out the preorder guest post for Wardrake on the Making It Happen book review blog:

     https://moonangel23.blogspot.com/2020/08/pre-order-excerpt-wardrake-by-ja-jaken.html

You'll find an exceprt from the book there along with some snazzy new promo graphics that I am very proud to have created. Thank you so much to Carra for helping to spread the word about this series!

As a reminder, Wardrake is the final book in my Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series, and is now available for preorder. You can reserve your copy of the ebook on the following websites:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC4_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1037588

The print version will be coming out just a bit later.

August 16, 2020

I am super excited to announce the new Dragon Mage Chronicles Art Gallery! On these pages you'll find a collection of illustrations that have been created for this series over the years since it was first written.

Just a warning that if you haven't had a chance to read the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series yet, some of these illustrations do contain spoilers for scenes in the books. To find out more about the series, you can click here: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

Click here to enter the gallery:

http://jajaken.com/DMCartgallery.html

August 15, 2020

I now have a series collection page on Amazon for the Dragon Mage Chronicles!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B085DL9NYD


There is already a page for the series on Smashwords:

https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/48235


It really feels like everything is wrapping up and coming together. I am super happy with how this series has turned out. It's been a lot of hard work, but it is so very worth it to see the finished product at last. ♥♥♥

bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

August 13, 2020

I've sent out an ARC copy of Wardrake to the first reviewer on my list and received confirmation that the posts are being scheduled. It feels like it's really starting to happen now! This last book in the series has been a long time in coming, and I am getting more and more excited about releasing it. :D

Just a reminder that the book is available for preorder. Here are the links where you can find it:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC4_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1037588

For more info about the Dragon Mage Chronicles series, click here: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

Lastly, I thought I'd share the new promo gif I have for the series. It's my first attempt at making a gif like this. I think it turned out really well!


August 11, 2020

Wardrake, Book IV in the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series, is now available for preorder! The buy links on Amazon and Smashwords are now live, although the cover image isn't showing up on the Amazon page yet for some reason. According to their FAQ, it could take a few days for it to start appearing on the page. I've never come across this issue before, but hopefully it will work itself out soon.

The book will be released on September 4, 2020. Here are the links where you can preorder:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC4_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1037588

The paperback version of the book will be coming soon.

I am really excited about how well this book turned out, but at the same time I'm feeling a bit anxious because it's the final book in the series and I'm really hoping all of you will love it as much as I do. I've sincerely enjoyed sharing Jander and Andrei's journey with all of you, and reading all of your comments and reactions to their story. Gabrielle seems to be a particular favorite, which makes me happy because I love her so much. :)

If you haven't had a chance to read this series yet, I recommend that you begin with the prequel novel, The Magician's Apprentice, before beginning the Chronicles series. The Magician's Apprentice is a m/m fantasy novel that begins the story of Jander Teregnan, a young man gifted in manipulating the strange energy his people know as magic. On the road far from home, he arrives in the capital city of Vallerin with the hope of finding a master who will be able to help him understand the arcane forces he can sense and interact with, but not reliably control. Once there, with the help of his loyal companion Gabrielle, he embarks on a journey that leads him into adventure, intrigue, danger, and romance as he becomes caught up in an adventure that will determine not only his fate, but the fate of his entire kingdom.


Wardrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book IV)
by J.A. Jaken

Novel (91,000 words)
Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance


Andrei and Jander return home to the city of Vallerin with the grimmest possible news and tell their king to do what he can to prepare his people for war. Kirin is heading toward the capital with a legion behind him, and he is determined to take revenge both on Andrei and on the apprentice he believes supplanted him in his former master's heart. This time, with the might of an entire dragon army at his command, he very well might succeed.


August 4, 2020

I just finished making the Kindle version of the ebook for Wardrake. The Smashwords ebook is coming along nicely as well. That one is a little more time consuming because of their formatting restrictions, but it's getting there. I am so happy with how this book is turning out! Seeing this story in print at last is a little surreal. I'm really super proud of it.

I should have a preorder link available soon. I'll post it just as soon as I have it!

July 17, 2020

It's done. I just finished the read-through of my final draft for Wardrake. I'm not sure exactly how I feel right now. A lot of triumph, a great deal of satisfaction at a job well done, but also sad, just a little bit. Because what a journey this has been. I still remember when it first started, literally half a lifetime ago.

I am incredibly happy with how this story has turned out. Seeing the words "The End" typed at the end of the page feels a little surreal, after five books in the series (including the prequel). Thank you so very sincerely to all of you who have been taking this journey with me. I can't tell you how much I've enjoyed sharing these characters and their world with you. I am looking forward so very much to getting this last book in the series out there for you to read and enjoy. :D

July 11, 2020

I just finished the final edits on Wardrake! Time for one final read-through to make sure I didn't miss anything before the publishing to ebook and paperback begins....

July 7, 2020

Congratulations to Sandra for winning an ebook copy of Stormdrake from the giveaway that was hosted at the Love Bytes Reviews blog. I'll be sending your book over to you right away. :)

June 14, 2020

Firedrake is up for Book of the Week over on the Love Bytes website! I'd love it if you would stop by to give it a vote:

   >>> https://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/06/14/love-bytes-reviews-book-of-the-week-poll-june-6-12-2020/

The top two winners will be nominated for the Book of the Month contest at the end of the month. :)

June 13, 2020

I have a couple of things to announce today. First of all, the paperback version of Firedrake is now available in the Amazon store! Here is the link where you can find it:

     Buy Link (paperback): getBook.at/DMC3_pb

And here are the links where you can find the ebook versions:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC3_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1024053

Secondly, the book has received its first review: 5 stars on the Making It Happen book review blog! Click here to read it: https://moonangel23.blogspot.com/2020/06/new-release-review-firedrake-ja-jaken.html

If you're not familiar with the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series, you can find more info about it here: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

June 12, 2020

It's release day!!! *throws confetti*

Firedrake, Book III in the Dragon Mage Chronicles, is now live and available for purchase. Here are the links where you can find it:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC3_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1024053

The paperback version of the novel is coming soon. I'll post a buy link just as soon as I have one for it.

This third book in the Dragon Mage Chronicles brings Jander and Andrei into Corascia's inner mountains, searching for the volcano where they believe Kirin is planning to conduct the dark magic rituals that will give him the power of a dragon mage. In this book you'll find harrowing battles and desperate pursuits, old foes and new allies, as well as a healthy dose of magic, adventure, and m/m romance.

I'm so happy to have this book out there at last. I really can't believe the series is almost complete. The final book, Wardrake, is in its final stages of editing right now and will be getting ready for publication very soon.

You can find more information about the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series here: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles


Firedrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book III)
by J.A. Jaken

Novel (60,000 words)
Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance


It's a race against time as Andrei and Jander head deep into the volcanic warrens of their country's inner mountains to stop Kirin from completing the dark magic spell that will awaken the power of the dragons. There they find new allies in unlikely places, but also face betrayal in unanticipated forms. Can Jander overcome his fear of the power he still does not entirely understand in order to save himself and the master he has grown to love?



June 9, 2020

Eeeee!!! Only three days left till the release of Firedrake. I am so excited about this one. I think it might be my favorite of the series, for a few reasons that I won't discuss now because they would be very spoilery. ^_^

I have been hard at work putting the finishing touches on the paperback version of the novel. It is turning out so good!!! I love the darker colors I get to use to create the paperback cover to match the tones of the ebook cover I made for it.

I'm just feeling really proud of this entire series. It's been a lot of hard work, with a lot of tears and missed sleep and uncertain moments, but it has all been worth it to see these books in print at last. This entire book series project has been years in the making. I still get a thrill every time I pick up my paperback copy of The Magician's Apprentice and hold it in my hands, much less the books in the series that follows. It's a feeling of pride, just a little bit, that this is something I created. But mostly it's a feeling of overwhelming awe, like a part of me can't really believe that the little passing idea I had all of those years ago to write my first m/m fantasy story has turned into this. It's surreal, more than anything. These are characters and worlds that only existed in my head at one point, and now there they are! Right there on the printed page! And here all of you are to share this journey with me. I think that feeling more than anything is the one that keeps me writing the way I do.

As a reminder, you can still snag an ebook copy of Firedrake on preorder:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC3_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1024053

It is all set for release this Friday, June 12th. The paperback version will come out just a little bit later, depending on how long KDP's review process takes.

If you're not familiar with the series, you can find more info about it here: http://jajaken.com/novels/dragonmagechronicles.htm

June 5, 2020

Only one week left until Firedrake, Book III in the Dragon Mage Chronicles goes live! I'm so excited about it. :)

The book is currently available for preorder here:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC3_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1024053

Click here for more info about the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series: http://jajaken.com/novels/dragonmagechronicles.htm



June 1, 2020

A preorder announcement for Firedrake was posted today on the Making It Happen book review blog. Stop by to check it out and read an exclusive excerpt from the book!

     https://moonangel23.blogspot.com/2020/06/pre-order-excerpt-firedrake-by-ja-jaken.html

As a reminder, Firedrake releases on June 12th! Here are the buy links:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC3_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1024053

For more info on the Dragon Mage Chronicles series, click here: http://jajaken.com/novels/dragonmagechronicles.htm

May 29, 2020

Only 14 days left until Firedrake goes live!!!

The newest book in the Dragon Mage Chronicles is now available for preorder. You can find it on Kindle and Smashwords:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC3_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1024053

Firedrake will be released on Friday, June 12th. While it's only available in ebook format right now, a paperback version is on the way. I am so excited about this one!!! Lots of adventure, lots of action, and a growing mystery as Jander and Andrei start heading into the final book in the series. I'm really happy with how it turned out, and I can't wait to share it with all of you. :D

For more information about the Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series, click here: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles



May 28, 2020

Popping in real quick to share my new promo graphic for The Magician's Apprentice. I am so excited with how it turned out!!!

bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles



May 26, 2020

Firedrake, Book III in the Dragon Mage Chronicles, is now available for preorder! It will be released on June 12, 2020.

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC3_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1024053

Find more information about THE DRAGON MAGE CHRONICLES m/m fantasy series here: bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

This third book in the Dragon Mage Chronicles brings Jander and Andrei into Corascia's inner mountains, searching for the volcano where they believe Kirin is planning to conduct the dark magic rituals that will give him the power of a dragon mage. In this book you'll find harrowing battles and desperate pursuits, old foes and new allies, as well as a healthy dose of magic, adventure, and m/m romance.


Firedrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book III)
by J.A. Jaken

Novel (60,000 words)
Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance


It's a race against time as Andrei and Jander head deep into the volcanic warrens of their country's inner mountains to stop Kirin from completing the dark magic spell that will awaken the power of the dragons. There they find new allies in unlikely places, but also face betrayal in unanticipated forms. Can Jander overcome his fear of the power he still does not entirely understand in order to save himself and the master he has grown to love?


May 25, 2020

Firedrake is officially done!!! *throws confetti* I'm looking at a release date of June 12th for it. I'll post the preorder links just as soon as I get them. The book will be available on Kindle and Smashwords to begin with, and as usual the paperback version will come a bit later.

Now onward to finish the edits on the final book in the series....

bit.ly/DragonMageChronicles

May 24, 2020

Sharing the new promo graphic I made this morning for the Sacred Guardian m/m fantasy series:



I also created a new profile picture and cover graphic for my Facebook page for this series:

https://www.facebook.com/sacredguardianseries/

I'm really excited with how they turned out. If you have a spare moment this morning, stop by to check out the page! :D

bit.ly/SGseries




May 21, 2020

Just taking a minute to share the new promo graphic I made for the Dragon Mage Chronicles:



I'm really getting into this whole graphic design thing. Making my own book covers, designing my own promo pics.... It's really a lot of fun, and a great way to exercise some creativity while I'm waiting for edits on my new book to get finished. ^_^

In related news, Firedrake is almost ready to go! I can't believe how fast it's all going. Before I know it, I'll be neck-deep in Wardrake edits and then this whole wild and crazy adventure will be over. The thought of that makes me feel a little bit sad, kind of like a parent sending my child out into the world for the first time. It'll be all grown up at that point.

For those of you who have purchased the books, or sent me a note to let me know you're enjoying the stories, or even to offer me encouragement and wish me well, THANK YOU. I really do appreciate each and every one of you, and all of the encouragement that you've given me. I'm so excited to get this series finished and out there for all of you to read and enjoy. :)

May 17, 2020

My newest m/m fantasy novel Seadrake has been nominated for Book of the Week on the Love Bytes website:

     >> https://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/05/17/love-bytes-reviews-book-of-the-week-poll-may-9-15-2020/

The poll will be open until this coming Friday. The top two books will roll over into the Book of the Month contest. It would be awesome if you could stop by and give me a vote! :)


May 8, 2020

It's release day!!!

Seadrake, Book II in the Dragon Mage Chronicles, is now available! You can pick up your copy here:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC2_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1016789

The Dragon Mage Chronicles is a m/m fantasy series in which Jander Teregnan, a young man gifted with an unpredictable ability to use magic, sets out to find a master to train him and eventually ends up falling in love with Andrei Teresh, the master mage of the capital city of Vallerin. The two of them set out on numerous adventures together as they explore a sudden uprising of dragons within their kingdom, and try to unravel the mysteries surrounding Andrei's former apprentice, a disturbed and dangerous young man named Kirin. Along the way they make a number of close friends as well as bitter enemies, struggling to survive as they seek to pursue their relationship not only as lovers, but as master and apprentice.

You can find more info about the books in the series here: http://jajaken.com/novels/dragonmagechronicles.htm


Praise for the Dragon Mage Chronicles:

"This is an amazing m/m romance. The author has sucked me into this world and now I sit here awaiting the next series."

"The author continues to impress by poignant characters and generally creating scenes that are succinct absent excessive elaboration. Almost every page draws the reader into the story creating a pleasurable reading experience. Now, this is someone who knows their craft!!"

"Absolutely amazing! I love magic and dragons and this was perfect. I'm buying the Dragon Mage Chronicles right now. Ecstatic to continue the journey...."

"This author is, I believe, amongst the best in this genre and I have never been disappointed with any of his/her books. If you're into magic, mages, mm romance and dragons, this is the book for you. I thoroughly recommend it."

"This book kept me at the edge of my seat, rooting for the good guys to persevere."

"I loved this book. Romance and adventure abound from beginning to end. Highly recommended!"

"I was completely pulled into this world the author created, and can't wait to follow Jander and Andrei on the rest of their adventures."


Seadrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book II)
by J.A. Jaken

Novel (67,000 words)
Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance


After much deliberation, Andrei chooses to bring his inexperienced and highly unusual apprentice to the far-off island of Sutan-lei, where the eminent mage-scholar Master Luth is rumored to abide. It is Andrei's hope that Master Luth will have answers to the growing mystery he and Jander began to uncover in the city of Tempest as well as help his apprentice gain some degree of mastery over his unique—and highly unpredictable—prowess in the magic. But even as they struggle to piece together the puzzle in front of them, their enemy is close behind them every step of the way...and he is determined not to let the two of them get in his way.

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC2_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1016789

April 29, 2020

Today there was a lovely preorder announcement for Seadrake (Book II in The Dragon Mage Chronicles) posted to the Making It Happen book review blog. Stop by to check it out and read an exclusive excerpt from the book:

     https://moonangel23.blogspot.com/2020/04/preorder-excerpt-seadrake-by-ja-jaken.html

As a reminder, Seadrake releases on May 8th! Here are the buy links:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC2_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1016789

For more info on the Dragon Mage Chronicles series, click here: http://jajaken.com/novels/dragonmagechronicles.htm


April 24, 2020

Only 14 days until launch!!! Here are the preorder links for Seadrake, Book II in The Dragon Mage Chronicles:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC2_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1016789

I'm really excited about this book (about the entire series, actually). ^_^

The whole preorder process is going really well. ARC copies have been sent out to the reviewers and a few launch day promos have been lined up. Twitter and Facebook promos are all scheduled and ready to go. I'm actually feeling pretty organized about the whole thing this morning.

I'm working on preparing the paperback version of the book, which will be available through Amazon. So far it is looking absolutely gorgeous. I still get shivers when I look at my bookshelf and see so many of the books I've written displayed there. I don't believe this experience of creating new worlds and stories will ever grow old.

Lastly, I've created a new Dragon Mage Chronicles series page for the books on Smashwords (I won't be able to make one on Amazon until all of the books in the series have been published). The link is here if you want to check it out: https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/48235

Here is the new series promo graphic I made. Click on it if you'd like to find out more information about the series:


The Dragon Mage Chronicles
by J.A. Jaken

Are you ready to immerse yourself in a world of dragons and magic, romance and mystery, with epic battles, daunting villains, and heroic acts of bravery? Join Jander and Andrei as they embark on an adventure that will determine not only the fate of the kingdom they have sworn an oath to serve, but also their future together as master and apprentice--and as lovers. With the fate of the magic itself hanging in the balance, will the love they hold for one another be enough to see them through?

April 20, 2020

Drumroll please....

Seadrake, Book II in The Dragon Mage Chronicles, is now available for preorder! The official release date is May 8, 2020. Currently it is available in ebook format through both Kindle and Smashwords. A paperback version of the novel is in the works as well and should be available very soon.

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC2_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1016789

This book was definitely a labor of love to complete. I lost count of the number of rewrites I did on certain passages, but the hard work was totally worth it. I am so very happy with the end result! The ebook itself is gorgeous, and I think the story flows beautifully now from the beginning to the very end. I can't wait to hold the paperback version of it in my hands. ^_^

This second book in The Dragon Mage Chronicles gives Jander and Andrei a chance to delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding the troubles they encountered in the city of Tempest, and to learn more about the dragons' unanticipated reemergence into the world. There are harrowing escapes and cryptic encounters, monsters at sea and uncertain allies, as well as a healthy dose of magic, adventure, and m/m romance. I also took the opportunity to explore Kirin's character in more depth, and to shade in some parts of his past leading into the final two books in the series.

If you haven't read the prequel to the Chronicles series yet, you can find more information about it here: The Magician's Apprentice. The prequel is a m/m fantasy novel that begins the story of Jander Teregnan, a young man gifted in manipulating the strange energy his people know as magic. On the road far from home, he arrives in the capital city of Vallerin with the hope of finding a master who will be able to help him understand the arcane forces he can sense and interact with, but not reliably control. Once there, with the help of his loyal companion Gabrielle, he embarks on a journey that leads him into adventure, intrigue, danger, and romance as he becomes caught up in an adventure that will determine not only his fate, but the fate of his entire kingdom.


Seadrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book II)
by J.A. Jaken

Novel (67,000 words)
Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance


After much deliberation, Andrei chooses to bring his inexperienced and highly unusual apprentice to the far-off island of Sutan-lei, where the eminent mage-scholar Master Luth is rumored to abide. It is Andrei's hope that Master Luth will have answers to the growing mystery he and Jander began to uncover in the city of Tempest as well as help his apprentice gain some degree of mastery over his unique—and highly unpredictable—prowess in the magic. But even as they struggle to piece together the puzzle in front of them, their enemy is close behind them every step of the way...and he is determined not to let the two of them get in his way.


April 12, 2020

I did it! Seadrake is finally done. This was really a tricky one to get right, but I am feeling extremely happy about how it turned out. Now all that's left is to transform the story into a published ebook, and then after that into a print volume. This is the tedious part, but it's always worth it in the end. I cannot wait to hold the finished book in my hands. :)

This turned out to be an interesting story to write because it combines so many of my different loves: m/m romance, magic, fantasy adventure, and those delightfully shiver-inducing tales of monsters at sea. I really hope you'll enjoy the end result as much as I do.

I'll post an excerpt soon, along with the preorder link once it becomes available. It should all be happening very soon!

April 3, 2020

I've been working hard on the final edits for Seadrake, book II in the Dragon Mage Chronicles. This one has been really tricky to get right because it revolves a lot around Jander's growing understanding of his abilities and the evolution of the conflict with Kirin. I need to pack a lot of information into the story without making it seem dry or overwhelming, so it's essential to get the pacing just right. Lots of rewrites for this one as I go back and tweak it here and there. But I'm definitely getting close!

A new review for Stormdrake was just posted on the Making It Happen book review blog. 4.5 stars! https://moonangel23.blogspot.com/2020/04/book-review-stormdrake-by-ja-jaken.html

I hope you are all adjusting well to the current lockdowns in your areas (or variations thereof) and managing to stay happy and productive. One of my friends at work shared something he saw posted to his Facebook that made me smile: "Introverts, put down your books and call your extrovert friends to check on them. They are not doing okay." It's so true! :D My best friend from high school is my polar opposite and a complete extrovert, and we have been on the phone together almost constantly because she is going stir crazy with the recent stay at home order that was issued. I'm perfectly happy curling up with a book or playing games with my son inside the house, but some people are finding this situation a real trial. :(

Big hugs to all of you. Stay safe!

March 6, 2020

Stormdrake just received a lovely 4.5 star review on the Love Bytes book review blog: http://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/03/06/recent-release-review-stormdrake-by-j-a-jaken/

"ThIs book is a wonderful adventure in the style of light fantasy. The world building is great but doesn't get in the way of understanding the storyline. Jaken is skilled in creating villains that are truly evil."

March 2, 2020

I'm a day late with the announcement, but Stormdrake is now available in paperback!!! Here are the links where you can find it:

     Buy Link (paperback): getBook.at/DMC1_pb

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC1_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): www.smashwords.com/books/view/1004237

February 28, 2020

The release day for Stormdrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book I) is finally here!!!

Buy Links:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC1_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): www.smashwords.com/books/view/1004237

I am very excited to announce that Stormdrake is now available for purchase. This book continues the adventures of Jander and Andrei that began in The Magician's Apprentice. The two men are sent to the provincial city of Tempest on their first mission together as master and apprentice, where they are tasked with solving a mystery surrounding a terrifying and hostile dragon. Along the way they'll find new friends and old, romance and mystery, betrayals and sacrifice, strange new magic, and the whisperings of what may be a plot against the kingdom of Corascia itself.

This is the first book in my m/m fantasy series titled The Dragon Mage Chronicles. Ebook versions are available now on Kindle and Smashwords, with a paperback version on the way. I'm hoping it will be available on Amazon's website by the end of the weekend.

If you're interested in finding out more about this series, you can find the info on my website here: http://jajaken.com/novels/dragonmagechronicles.htm

And don't forget I have a new email newsletter that you can sign up for and receive announcements about my future preorder and book releases: bit.ly/News-jajaken

Happy reading! :)


Stormdrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book I)
by, J.A. Jaken

Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance

Jander Teregnan has succeeded in his ambition to become a mage-apprentice, but the troubles that face him are far from over. He and Andrei set out on their first mission together as mage and apprentice to investigate a mysterious series of dragon attacks near a provincial city at the edge of the kingdom, where Jander's unique talents may particularly come into play. What they find there turns out to be far more devastating than a mere homicidal dragon, as they are caught up in a conspiracy that will threaten not only their own lives, but the lives of everyone in the kingdom they have sworn an oath to protect.


Buy Links:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC1_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): www.smashwords.com/books/view/1004237

February 23, 2020

Are you ready to immerse yourself in a tale of dragons and magic? Romance and mystery? The release countdown for Stormdrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book I) has begun - only 5 days until launch!!!

I can hardly believe it's nearing the end of February already. It feels like the new year has just started! My newest m/m fantasy novel Stormdrake, Book I in the Dragon Mage Chronicles, is on schedule to be released this coming Friday, February 28th. Today is the deadline for submitting my final version of the ebook for the preorders, which thankfully I completed this past week. All is set for the book's upcoming debut!

As a reminder, Stormdrake is available for preorder now! Here are the links where you can find it:

Buy Links:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC1_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): www.smashwords.com/books/view/1004237

--------------------

Stormdrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book I)
by J.A. Jaken

Genre(s): Fantasy/Adventure, M/M Romance

Jander Teregnan has succeeded in his ambition to become a mage-apprentice, but the troubles that face him are far from over. He and Andrei set out on their first mission together as mage and apprentice to investigate a mysterious series of dragon attacks near a provincial city at the edge of the kingdom, where Jander's unique talents may particularly come into play. What they find there turns out to be far more devastating than a mere homicidal dragon, as they are caught up in a conspiracy that will threaten not only their own lives, but the lives of everyone in the kingdom they have sworn an oath to protect.

--------------------

In case you haven't had the opportunity to read the prequel to the Dragon Mage Chronicles, you can find more information about it here: The Magician's Apprentice

Find more info about the Dragon Mage Chronicles series here: http://jajaken.com/novels/dragonmagechronicles.htm

Also, don't forget to sign up for my newsletter email list to make sure you don't miss future updates on preorders and new releases! bit.ly/News-jajaken


February 17, 2020

I've just sent out my very first newsletter to my new mailing group! Here is the permalink for it if you'd like to check it out:

     Newsletter - Stormdrake Preorder

Feel free to let me know what you think of it. This is my very first attempt at creating one, and it was definitely a learn-as-you-go process. Mailchimp makes an obvious effort to makes things as simple as possible for new content creators, but there was still a learning curve involved. I'm sure I'll get better as I go.

If you have any suggestions for what you'd like to see in future newletters, please let me know: Email Me

I'd like to make these as informative and useful as possible!

February 14, 2020

I've been working hard all morning on preparing the final version of Stormdrake and getting it ready for final upload to the various distribution sites. It is turning out to be one amazing looking book! I am so excited and so very, very proud of it. I can hardly believe it's actually being published after all this time. This stage of the publishing process always seems to move so crazy fast, with the preorder deadline zooming forward faster and faster every time. But I feel confident that I'm making good progress, and that I'm on schedule for what needs to be done. Maybe, after all this time, I'm finally getting used to this?

In case you haven't heard the news, Stormdrake is currently available for preorder. Here are the links where you can find it:

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC1_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): www.smashwords.com/books/view/1004237

It is the first book in my Dragon Mage Chronicles m/m fantasy series, picking up a year after the events of The Magician's Apprentice left off. I'm also working on a paperback version of the novel, which is always an exciting prospect. I really can't wait to hold this entire series in my hands as actual physical books, and see their spines displayed on the bookshelf in my office. ♥

Just a reminder that I've created a newsletter mailing list. Hooray hooray! If you would like to support me by signing up for it, I would appreciate it so very much. I'm planning to send out my very first newsletter on Monday. There should be a subscribe link in the links bar at the righthand side of all my website pages, or you can sign up through the landing page here:

bit.ly/News-jajaken

Feel free to pass the word! :)

February 12, 2020

I now have a mailing list that you can sign up for if you are interested in getting notifications about my new book releases! This has been a very long time in coming (and I was probably making it a lot more complicated than it needed to be). But as of today the J.A. Jaken mailing group is up and running:


J.A. Jaken: Adventures in Writing Newsletter sign-up form:


Here is a direct link to the landing page if you would like to bookmark it or pass it on to someone else who might be interested:

https://mailchi.mp/ed1522573268/jajakenfiction

Feel free to check it out and let me know what you think of the design. I've never done this before so any advice or feedback will be very much appreciated. :)

I promise that the mailing list will be extremely light traffic and will be used solely to push out notifications about my preorders, sales, and new releases. Who knows, I might even offer a sale or two exclusively for mailing group members. ^_^

So please, feel free to sign up and share the word with your friends. I would love for this latest effort of mine to be a success!

February 10, 2020

Stormdrake, Book I in The Dragon Mage Chronicles, is now available for preorder! The official release date is February 28, 2020. Currently it is available in ebook format through both Kindle and Smashwords. A paperback version of the novel is in the works as well and should be available very soon. Finally, finally this book is available! I am super excited to share it with all of you at last. :)

     Buy Link (Kindle ebook): getBook.at/DMC1_Kindle

     Buy Link (Smashwords ebook): www.smashwords.com/books/view/1004237

I do recommend reading the prequel to The Dragon Mage Chronicles, The Magician's Apprentice, before beginning the Chronicles series (although it is not strictly necessary). The Magician's Apprentice is a m/m fantasy novel that begins the story of Jander Teregnan, a young man gifted in manipulating the strange energy his people know as magic. On the road far from home, he arrives in the capital city of Vallerin with the hope of finding a master who will be able to help him understand the arcane forces he can sense and interact with, but not reliably control. Once there, with the help of his loyal companion Gabrielle, he embarks on a journey that leads him into adventure, intrigue, danger, and romance as he becomes caught up in an adventure that will determine not only his fate, but the fate of his entire kingdom.

The Dragon Mage Chronicles picks up a year after the prequel leaves off. It continues the adventures of Jander, Andrei, Boaen, Alluin, and Gabrielle, delving deeper into the mysteries surrounding the dragons, the magic, and the darkness which is consuming Andrei's former apprentice. Both Jander and Andrei discover that balancing their relationship as lovers with their respective roles as master and apprentice is not as easy as it might have initially seemed. This first book in the Chronicles offers new enemies and questionable allies, epic battles and harrowing escapes, as well as a deepening mystery that will continue throughout the rest of the books in the series:


Stormdrake (Dragon Mage Chronicles Book I)
by J.A. Jaken

Novel (60,000 words)
Genre(s): Fantasy/Adventure, M/M Romance


Jander Teregnan has succeeded in his ambition to become a mage-apprentice, but the troubles that face him are far from over. He and Andrei set out on their first mission together as mage and apprentice to investigate a mysterious series of dragon attacks near a provincial city at the edge of the kingdom, where Jander's unique talents may particularly come into play. What they find there turns out to be far more devastating than a mere homicidal dragon, as they are caught up in a conspiracy that will threaten not only their own lives, but the lives of everyone in the kingdom they have sworn an oath to protect.


January 24, 2020

I've been hard at work on the final edits for Stormdrake and am very happy to announce that the last of the editing is done!!! Now all that's left is the publishing as the novel is made presentable into a suitable book. This is always a nervewracking part of the process for me, because there isn't much left for a writer to do. I keep looking at the cover and trying to picture what the finished ebook will look like. The thought of it makes me feel really excited, because I'm sure it's going to turn out to be absolutely beautiful.

I am looking forward so much to sharing this series with all of you, and to get this first book in The Dragon Mage Chronicles out there at last. If you enjoyed The Magician's Apprentice, I'm sure you'll enjoy this newest book as well. The characters of Jander and Andrei and Gabrielle are very dear to my heart, and the journey they're undertaking is beyond anything I could have anticipated when I first sat down to write about them all of those years ago.

If you're unfamiliar with the series and would like to learn more about it, you can find more info here: jajaken.com/novels/dragonmagechronicles.htm

I'm also in the initial stages of creating a mailing list for those of you who might be interested, to keep you informed via email about future book releases. Stay tuned and I'll share that information with you just as soon as I know more about it.

I hope you're all having a lovely new year!

January 1, 2020

Happy New Year! *throws confetti* I can hardly believe we're entering into a new decade already. It seems like just yesterday we were all in a whirl of excitement over the start of a new century, and here we are twenty years in now. It feels a bit surreal.

2019 was a year of changes for me. I moved into a new, much bigger house with a nice big yard, in a beautiful neighborhood that I'm still adjusting to realizing is my new home. I love it here. This past week I hosted our annual family overnight get-together on Christmas Eve, which I've never been able to do before. There were pull-out couches and daybeds and air mattresses everywhere, and there was still room to spare for everyone. It was chaotic and stressful and absolutely wonderful, and I'm so happy to have had the opportunity to experience it. It takes a long while for a new house to start feeling like a home, but building these kinds of memories is definitely taking steps in the right direction.

This was also a year of changes for me in the writing world. I switched publishers and went through a lengthy transition period where I re-rereleased all of my old books with new covers and edits. It felt like a monumental task, but I actually got it done. Whew! I only released one new novel, The Magician's Apprentice. I had plans to release the books in the Dragon Mage Chronicles as well, but time got away from me what with work and some annoyingly persistent health problems getting in the way.

But that brings me to my next topic, which is looking ahead to my plans for 2020. I intend to release the Dragon Mage Chronicles very early this year, as well as the fourth and final book in the Sacred Guardian Series. I also have new writing in progress, including a new novel titled The Demon Thief that I am extremely excited about. Now that I'm settling into my new home and my life seems to be calming down into a semi-predictable pattern once again, I'm thinking I should be able to focus more on my writing and getting all of these vivid ideas and worlds that live in my head out there to share with all of you. It's so hard to focus on creativity when life is in a period of upheaval, whether it's good or bad.

So once again, I hope you have a happy, happy New Year. I wish all of you the very best of everything this year: the best books to read, the best friends to share your time with, the best memories to build and keep with you forever. Over this past year and a half of chaos in my life, I've learned that it's important to focus on the small things that bring you joy even if the larger picture begins to feel a bit overwhelming. Just taking a moment to enjoy the sight of a sunset, or the smell of rain, a kind word from a stranger at the grocery store, or the way my cat purrs when she sits curled up next to me on the couch in the evening. Little moments of happiness can add up to a whole lot of joy, if you don't allow them to pass by unappreciated.

Wishing all of you a safe and amazing 2020!!! :)

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