C.J. Milbrandt's Blog, page 77
July 7, 2015
FANART: Meadowsweet
Tupper & Freydolf are making a good first impression on Skylee. Last week, I received an art-packed email with quick sketches of some of her favorite scenes from the first book in the Galleries of Stone trilogy. With her permission, I’m sharing a couple of them with you!
In a twinkling, Tupper was up the nearest tree, barely bending its thickly-gnarled branches with his scanty weight as he perched. Feet swinging, eyes roving, the lad reached for one of the blushing fruits hidden amidst gre...
BYWAYS: Countdown Sale
This is the last full day of the Kindle Countdown Sale on Byways Book #5, Inside the Tree. If you’ve been wanting to pick up Ewan’s most recent book, you can still catch it for a dollar off.


July 4, 2015
MINNESOTA TRIP: Mini-Challenge
My Hometown. I’ve mentioned before that I’m originally from a small town in Minnesota. My folks still live in the big old farmhouse where I grew up, and I adore revisiting it and them. I’ll be hopping on a northbound plane on Saturday (7/4), and I’ll spend several summer days re-exploring places that are dear to my heart. While I’m away, I’m issuing a special challenge to all Byways readers.
I’ve prepared a small stack of hand-stamped and handwritten cards. (I picked a quote from one of th...
COUNTDOWN SALE: Inside the Tree
Quick reminder that the Kindle Countdown Deal on Byways Book #5, Inside the Tree: A Ewan Johns Adventure is nearing its first price jump. As of this posting, there are just over 11 hours left to buy Ewan’s latest story at $1.99. The sale price changes to $2.99 at noon (PDT) on Saturday, July 4, 2015. Check how much time is left


July 2, 2015
INTERVIEW: Childress Ink
As part of our Anniversary celebrations for the Byways series, I bring you another interview. This one’s unique and fun because Kim (one of my editors for these books) sits down and asks the brothers about the race. Directly.
Kim: As eldest, you’re up first, Ewan. Where are you headed?
Ewan: I chose the northern course, in part to take advantage of the railroad.
Kim: You must be speeding along!
Ewan: Not quite….
Read the rest on Kim’s blog, where she’s featuring other patriotic titles for t...
July 1, 2015
INTERVIEW: Born on the 4th of July
Byways. Vanessa just posted an interview and excerpts from the Byways series over on the Scriblerians blog. You may remember her earlier post and giveaway for the Galleries of Stone trilogy. The Scriblerians are a group of nine writers who’ve banded together because they write “for non-adults of all ages.” Do follow them!
“I homeschooled my children and they would have loved Byways. The books are a fun way for parents and kids to learn about history and geography, not to mention appreciation...SALE: Ewan’s Second Adventure!
Anniversary Sale! The special deals continue with today’s special price on Byways Book #5, Inside the Tree: A Ewan Johns Adventure. For one week, this title will be a Kindle Countdown Deal, which means the sooner you buy, the lower the price. If you go over to Amazon and take a look, you’ll find a ticker counting down the seconds to the next price jump. Right now, you can get this new release for only $1.99 (regularly priced $4.99).
ON AMAZONThis year’s anniversary deals will allow you to...
June 30, 2015
ART: Byways Brothers
FanArt is fun! There’s nothing quite like opening mail and finding a reader’s creative outburst. Last week, I received another piece of Byways art from Skylee, who’s been reading through the series. This’un is titled “Byways Brothers” and features all three boys plus Ewan’s girls.

Head’s up! Tomorrow, I’m kicking off an Anniversary Sale for the Byways Books. From June 30 – July 3, Book #1, On Your Marks and Book #2, Aboard the Train will be FREE, so be...
SALE! Byways Books
Free eBooks! In celebration of the kick-off of the Byways series on July 4, 2014, I’m offering an Anniversary Sale. For the next few days, the first two titles are FREE! Nab them for yourself. Tell a friend about the sale. Bonus points to anyone who brings the series to the attention of a school teacher. More festivities to follow soon!


June 29, 2015
Deuce, Chapter 17: Sister, Brother
Sister, Brother
Head high, Lyall Rakefang strutted through the gates and into the clan house and presented his daughter to a gathering of austere uncles, haughty aunts, and envious cousins. Ulrica’s trophy pelt and painted skin sent the whole lot into a stir. Comments and compliments. Gasps and glee. Her triumph was theirs to boast, and she felt their pride in her accomplishment.
“The hunt was good!” boomed her father.
The Rakefangs roared their agreement.
As Lyall went on to boast about...