Behind the Scenes: Writing Glimmer of Destiny

The idea for the supernatural series first came to me as a teenager after watching Meet Joe Black. While I was fascinated by the film’s premise of Death living among mortals, I imagined something darker, grittier, and more intense. 

Over the years, characters changed and plotlines shifted. Heck, even entire story arcs came and went. Yet despite all those changes, the core idea remained the same: a supernatural being leaves the Otherworld behind and starts a new life on Earth.

What I enjoyed most

The series debut, Eclipse of Avarice, introduced the protagonists, Luminael Morningstar and Crowley, and established the setting. Book two expands the scope of the supernatural thriller series. 

I had a great deal of fun expanding the world and developing the characters. But I enjoyed something else even more: planting seeds for future books. There are several moments that may seem small now but will become much more important later.

And if you ask me, the best is still to come.

Writing and revision

After finishing the manuscript in January, I entered what I assumed would be the final editing phase. I expected a few minor adjustments. I should have known better. As I worked through the manuscript, new ideas emerged—not only for this book but for the entire series. That meant returning to the outline, revising sections, and even adding new chapters. 

Because I want my editor to receive the cleanest draft possible, I completed two additional editing passes before submitting the manuscript. It certainly took more time, but it also strengthened the story. I’d rather delay a release than publish a book that falls short of my expectations.

Despite the extra work, this was one of my smoothest editing processes - until summer. Then, the heat wave caused glitches with both my laptop and my health, forcing me to change my plans.

Designing the book cover

I’ve already told you about the design process and your feedback, but I’d like to revisit it. Readers, but also authors, often underestimate how much work goes into creating a book cover. Yes, modern tools can generate impressive images within minutes. But a good cover needs to do far more than look attractive.

A cover must grab attention, communicate genre, and establish the tone of a story within seconds.

For Glimmer of Destiny, that meant capturing the darker and more intense aspects of the supernatural thriller while remaining consistent with the visual identity established in Eclipse of Avarice.

The process involved multiple iterations. I experimented with different symbols, color schemes, and design elements before everything finally clicked into place. Once the core concept became clear, the remaining pieces fell into place much more easily.

At least, that’s how it felt from my side.

As with any creative project, not everyone loved the final design. Some readers offered criticism, while others responded very positively. And honestly, that’s perfectly fine. 

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that no cover will appeal to everyone. Art is subjective. Every reader brings different tastes and expectations.

Whether readers loved the cover, disliked it, or fell somewhere in between, I genuinely appreciate everyone who took the time to share their thoughts. Feedback is part of the creative process, and every perspective helps.

Glimmer of Destiny release date

I’m excited to release Glimmer of Destiny with you on August, 4th. It expands the world, deepens the characters, and sets the stage for what comes next. 

And for Luminael and Crowley, the journey is only beginning.