What is The Brethren?
The Brethren is a Young Adult fantasy series, that I have chosen to share one chapter at a time as I work on it. The reason for this is that I have had this story in my mind for over a decade now and it is no closer to being published than it was all those years ago. First life got in the way and I didn’t have time to write, and now that I do have time to write it feels so overwhelming that I worry I’ll never get it “out there” if I keep it to myself. Right now it is more important to me that the story has readers than to publish an actual book.
I’ve popped each chapter on its own page and enabled comments so that you can leave feedback if you want to. This is an experiment for me – can I share something that isn’t perfect? Can I open myself up to (hopefully constructive) criticism as I write? Can I share the journey of writing a novel with my readers as it happens? What would that even look like? And how will their feedback influence my story?
Anyway, that’s the plan. I have no idea if it will work or not, but what are the creative arts for if not trying new things? So please join me in this journey and let me know what you think!
A Basic Introduction to the Story
This story is based in a fantasy world, not too unlike our own medieval period, and follows a group of people called The Brethren. The Brethren are men and women who have been blessed by the Gods and are able to manipulate the fabric of the world in which they live. Generally used for good, this power can sometimes be abused and the series follows the build up of a threat that could destroy everything.
We start our journey as our protagonist, Bethia, begins her training. She believes that adapting to her new life will be her greatest challenge, but she has no idea of the battle that is brewing within the very heart of her world and in which she will play an integral part.
The Story begins…
Chapter One
We join our protagonist, Bethia, at the end of a three day journey to reach the capital city and start her new life as a member of The Brethren. Her first glimpses of the city and the Abbey from the stagecoach window, as well as the conversation from her fellow passengers, hint at just how different her life is about to become.
Read Chapter One here…
Chapter Two
After entering the Abbey and meeting Brother Devin, the charming Head of Entrants and Guardians, Bethia takes her place in the Chapel for her Dedication Ceremony.
Read Chapter Two here…
Chapter Three
Following her Dedication, Bethia eats lunch with her new Guardian, Brother Carew, before saying goodbye to her father and Brother Howell. What will they think of each other, and how reliable are first impressions anyway?
Read Chapter Three here…
Chapter Four
Bethia finally gets to meet some of her fellow Entrants and is gets a glimpse of what the days ahead might look like.
Read Chapter Four here…
Chapter Five
Bethia’s first day ends with Evening Prayers, and then we get to properly meet Brother Carew as he discusses his new charge with Brother Devin.
Read Chapter Five here…
Chapter Six
Chapter Six, coming soon…
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