Nervous... Just a bit · 8:52pm Feb 19th, 2022
Greetings readers and friends.
Believe it or not, Chapter 17 is already ready... well, almost. Need a pre-reader or three.
That being said, there is a big chunk of this chapter that has me sweating bullets. I already put my foot in it by over-doing the exposition that happens during Chapter one, parts A and B. The review of AoS written by Cyonix (found here) makes some excellent criticism, and I had to agree with his points. Not that I'm heading back right now to fix it or anything.
In Chapter 17, Celestia opens up and tells her side of the story - giving the plot/book a bit more context... with more to be revealed soon. I found a terrific vehicle for her telling her story (you'll see what I mean - not sure if anyone has used the map in that way before), but at the same time, it has been several years since Chapter one was written, and has been over a year since the most recent chapter was published...
Hoo boy...
So, while I commit maybe a cardinal sin in the eyes of some for Celestia's exposition, at the same time I wonder: would you folks actually appreciate what Celestia shares, because it CATCHES UP the readership on this convoluted plot spanning over a thousand years? Believe me, it still reveals new things, and the characters do react a bit to it. Not all positive either. (To quote many aspiring YouTubers, "Let me know in the comments!")
That all being said... I'll need a pre-reader or three to chime in on their opinion. Does Celestia drone on too long, or is it good because new revelations are made?
Thanks to all for your interest. 
C'ya! - S.C.
First off, I'm stoked to see another chapter of this fun story.
The question I would have is, does Celestias exposition really contribute to the story, or would it better fit as a Side Story, for committed readers who want a more complete world-building?
If you were to cut out Celestia's part in the next chapter would it sound more like a short story in, and of itself?
Would the next chapter be readable without Celestia's contribution?
I wouldn't worry too much about getting readers the ability to catch up, because this is just a new chapter in the same book. If this was a new book then you would spend some time in the first few chapters catching readers up with what happened in the previous book.
I'm sorry you're losing your artist, but I bet she is set to do great things in Leeds.😁