I’ve done so little writing the first half of 2026 that I’m uncertain it’s worth mentioning. I was able to put down all of 713 words into a space opera romance that my wife challenged me to write. I think I have a great story there, but it’s going to be put on the back burner.

I did submit one story to be published in the 2026 edition of the Virginia Writers Club Journal, which was accepted and the journal published in June. It’s called “The King and His Castle,” and the journal can be found here. I finished the story exactly four years ago but had a hard time finding it a home. It’s historical fiction rather than my usual speculative fiction. It was inspired by an article in an Archeology magazine. I’m proud of it and am glad it found a home. And I’ll gladly take a 100% acceptance rate for a half year, even if the number was 1 of 1!

I’m excited for what’s on tap for the summer. After talking about it for years, I’m finally editing the three middle grade manuscripts I finished initial drafts of over three years ago (longer for the first two). My goal is to complete revisions inspired by my critique group and get them to my editor to work on all at once while I figure out the covers. I’m also going to have my editor work on a middle grade short story collection that I’m thinking about giving out as a bonus for those who buy all three books. The collection will contain about 15,000 words over five stories, four of which have been published elsewhere.

My third book signing will also be this summer. The closest Barnes and Noble to me reopened last month and immediately reached out to the Northern Virginia Writers Club asking for members to come do signings. I’m honored to be part of the first wave this August. Details are below. Please stop by if you’re in the area!