Well, you may have noticed a dearth of postings. There are many factors at work, not the least of which is I’m getting married next month. In fact, February 27th is the big day – exactly one month from now. Very exciting!

I never knew there were so many details when it came to marriage – paperwork, licenses, showers, meetings, floorplans, etc. I blame my misconceptions on the existence of Las Vegas drive-through weddings. Danielle and I will not be getting married in Las Vegas, but Chicago – where we both grew up. Not only will we be a stone’s throw from the Art Institute (where Max’s adventures began), but my nephew, Michael, will deliver the wedding rings on a copy of The Hound of Rowan.

In many ways, Danielle and I have The Tapestry to thank for bringing us together. She read the books, expressed a fondness for Lucy, and I was smitten by my former classmate who could embrace a wriggling, flatulent piglet. Fast forward a few years and here we are – ready to walk down the aisle and recite our vows. As I said, very exciting.

That we get to celebrate our lives together with so many friends and family is truly a blessing. I’ve heard it can be overwhelming to see so many loved ones in a single room. I can only imagine that this is so. Whether its our families, classmates from elementary school, or friends from later chapters in life, Danielle and I consider ourselves very fortunate.

Unfortunately for all concerned, a dance lesson looms on my horizon. I am not a good dancer. In fact, some of you may remember an earlier iteration of my website in which I confessed the degree to which it terrifies me. Many adjectives might be attributed to the Neff clan (deep-voiced, stout, sparsely crowned) but I’m afraid “graceful” does not quite suit. Danielle loves to dance, however, and thus I try to be a good sport. A little enthusiasm goes a long way.

Which brings us back to the lesson. I do not know what to expect, but I’m determined to bring a good attitude. I would like to demonstrate my enthusiasm by wearing a headband or elastic pants, but I suspect Danielle will impose her considerable will…

I promise to share an anecdote or two, however. It will be nothing if not entertaining. The lesson won’t transform me into Fred Astaire, but I’m optimistic that it will prevent me from embarrassing myself too badly when all eyes are on us.

Back to book stuff. I really do appreciate everyone’s patience with The Fiend and The Forge. The manuscript is a beast and I’m trying to cover some new territory – it’s no easy trick to destroy the world and build it anew. There are witches and goblins and hags and demons to consider- each with their own distinctive cultures, agendas, etc. It’s a lot of fun to write and I can’t wait to share it with my readers. I also can’t wait for everyone to meet Prusias – a demon of uncommon courtesy, cruelty, and passions. He’s a fun one.

Back to work. Drop me a note and say hello and thanks you to all of you who have been introducing your friends to Max and his adventures.