Joseph Lallo, though having written several novels, was slow to consider himself an author. Educated at NJIT, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Computer Engineering, the world of Information Technology is where most of his bills were paid until Sept of 2014 when he finally became a full-time author. He has written dozens of novels, and novellas, including the international bestseller The Book of Deacon and the critically acclaimed Free-Wrench series.
In addition to writing, he helps run the Six Figure Authors podcast with Lindsay Buroker and Andrea Pearson. Past ventures have included the concluded the Science Fiction and Fantasy Marketing podcast and BrainLazy.com, and back burner projects include Weird Nothing with Adam J. Hall. He made his home in Bayonne, NJ, where he had lived all of his life until the success of his books allowed him to buy a home in Colonia, NJ.
UPDATED: 5-14-2020
Awesome series dude!!! raelly love how you get on with the story and just give readers ample time to decide whether to love it or hate it. I personally LOVED IT and just wanted to say kudos for such fantastic writing. and i also can’t believe you’re so immersed in teh world of IT and came up with such amazing stuff so far from the realm of IT!! wicked!!!
I think the Deacon series is amazing. The books are definitely some of my all-time favorites and are worth reading over and over (which I normally don’t do). As a girl, I definitely connected with Myranda and was able to picture myself in her position. I too, fell in love with Deacon…
Keep on writing!
Thanks so much for sharing. I’m glad you were able to connect with Myranda and Deacon. You’ll be glad to know that they should be appearing together on the upcoming commissioned cover of the second book. I should see a rough draft of it next week.
I’ve just finished the first book in the series and I thought i’d give you a few minutes of my time (that’s all you get as i’m itching to start reading the second book in the trilogy) to tell you how pleased I am that after 2 years another author has finally made it onto my ‘must read all’ list.
Beautifully written and so easy to read. With a few short descriptive lines you introduced me to my new friends with ease. I didn’t have to spend nights with them to get to know their personality, nor did I have to be on the defensive until their true colours shone through. BANG! an instant new family.
The storyline in itself kept my stomach doing turns and more often that not I had to calm it with a few choice words. Thoroughly gripping. So much in fact that I have spent the last two days with my head in your book rather than logging onto my daily fix of fantasy in the form of an RP game (although my guildies may not be thanking you).
I could ramble to you for a long time about the great work that you have done on this first book in the series, but I have the second book to read.
I’m very glad that you’ve enjoyed the first book of the trilogy so much, and I sincerely hope that the rest of the tale leaves you feeling the same way. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Its not often that I get a chance to read a book that engages me as much as yours did. I read the first book of the trilogy in about 2 days. In the last week I devoured the remaining books and was thoroughly engrossed. I loved the characters and the entire story line. keep up the good work!!!
Thanks! It is great to hear that you enjoyed the trilogy. Right now I’m busy plugging away at a Sci Fi book, but once that’s done, it is back to the fantasy books to see where else I should take them.
Hi JL,
I just finished your 1st book and here I am looking at your website and writing this note. Well, I thought the book was fantastic. So much so, that I went to BN and bought the next two in the series and will be starting to read book 2 right after this email. I thought the characters are great, the story line is, way cool, and the magic, is sweet. It took me a little while to get into the book, though, about 150 to 200 pages, I think. Shortly after Myranda found the sword and touched it. At that point the story took off, and from then on was a page turner where I couldn’t read fast enough. Anyway, don’t stop writing, you are very talented. You also did a very good job editing as I only found a few word errors, minor ones, like her instead of here, that kind of stuff. So, don’t worry about it, I have read a lot worse and in comparison this was great, almost like it was professionally edited. I read lots of fantasy and this book is one the best, so please keep on writing, cause you will be a star sooner than you think.
Cheers!
Thanks for the comment. I’m glad you liked the book, and I hope you like the rest of the trilogy just as much!
I just finished the first book in the trilogy and can’t wait to read the next two! I was engrossed from the very beginning – page 1 to be exact. I needed to know what was going to happen next so much that I read much too fast and had to keep going back to reread! No time for any more comment as I have to get the rest of the trilogy and get back to reading! Thank you for such an engrossing series!
Hi Jeanette! Thanks for the comment. I’m really glad you enjoyed the first book, and I hope you enjoy the rest of the series. Thanks for reading!
After about 70 free downloads, I actually made my first Kindle purchases: the 2nd and 3rd books in the Deacon series. Enjoyed the ride. 🙂
Neat! Great to know I was able to inspire a purchase, and that you didn’t regret it! Thanks for the comment!
I am a huge fantasy reader. I have emptied our local library of all their fantasy books and have a bookcase full of purchased ones.
I will have to say that this one, The Book of Deacon, was right up with the rest of them.
I would love to get it in hard copy for my partner to read as he doesn’t read ebooks yet.
It was he who introduced me to fantasy and I think he would love it too.
I was mightily disappointed when I tuned the page to find your little blurb about the next book. I was ready for a long read!!
So, I guess I’d best find the next two books to find out what happens,aye?
Also, I have done a lot of work with the Gutenberg Project and was wishing I could have fixed the errors that came through into the ebook. They in no way spoiled the reading though, and you have since had them fixed, I believe, so all is well!
Looking forward to the next part of The Book of Deacon!
Many thanks,
Hobbit.
PS. I use my Netbook as my ereader. I have downloaded a programme called Calibre. It a good way to manage my ebooks.
Cheers!!!!
Hi! It is great to learn that a diehard fantasy fan considers my book to be worthwhile. I’ve been taking some preliminary steps toward getting the book published in paperback, but I’m reluctant to move forward until, at the very least, all of the books of the trilogy have seen an editor. It is bad enough releasing an eBook with errors. Releasing a paperback with errors is another thing entirely. If and when I make the book available in print, however, you can be sure that I will announce it here.
Hopefully, if you choose to read the entire trilogy, you’ll feel as positive about the whole story as you did about the first chapter.
By the way, I actually use Calibre to do test conversions and work with my rough drafts before sending the books off to the retailers. You might be the first person I’ve heard from who actually reads the books on a computer screen by choice. Most of my friends and readers bought dedicated devices just to avoid having to do that.
Thanks for reading!
I read and loved The Book of Deacon trilogy.
However me being the purist I am I want it on my physical bookshelf.
Are there any plans for this to ever be possible?
Not long ago, I would have said that physical versions of these books would be unlikely, but I’ve been hearing more and more from people interested in paper copies. I’ll have to look into it, and try once and for all to iron out all of the errors I can find, but I would say that one day you will indeed find these in paperback, at least. I’ll be sure to spread the word, if and when it happens.
I agree with the previous post. I love my Kindle, but I like to have a hard copy of my favorite books. The Book of Deacon trilogy is definitely among my favorites.
Another vote in favor of physical copies! I literally had a tab open this morning on the subject of book printing. Pocket Book? Digest? US Trade? Must research…
I wrote a 200 page pulp sci-fantasy book a few years ago before e-readers were popular, and got 500 copies printed and shipped to me – this method allowed me to sell them for $8 plus shipping and ‘make’ $4 on each copy (ie. the printing and shipping to me was just under $4 per book). On the down side, it’s a pain in the neck having to pack and ship books a couple of times a week, even if you get a load of boxes in advance so you only need to go to a mailbox.
However, after I was done with that print run, I repackaged it for print-on-demand, which in its cheapest form (which is a less convenient larger format with fewer pages) starts at closer to $8 *and* you give up a portion of the ‘profit’ beyond that – end result, the book is priced higher and you get less money for each sale. The higher price also means I make more like one or two sales a month versus the original run average of around 15 sales a month. And that’s even including the cheaper-but-overpriced ebook option that the print on demand place has (original run had no ebook).
For me, if I was to write another book I’d probably go either trying to get “real published”, or ebook-only, because neither of these two print options is very appealing to me having tried both.
Given that you, like me, work with computers, I’m surprised you aren’t just selling your ebook version directly from your website – I’m pretty sure you could charge a lower price and still get more ‘profit’ per sale, that way! Especially with the free first book.
Hi, thanks for the advice! Of the two print options, I would probably go with print-on-demand. I’m very happy with the amount of money I’ve been earning off of the eBooks, so I wouldn’t be terribly upset with a low profit margin on the print editions. It is mostly just for people who want a physical copy. You make a good point about potentially earning more by selling the eBook direct on the site. That’s something I might think about doing in addition to the various distributors I sell through. It remains an option because none of my distributors require exclusivity. Thanks again!
I realise this is a couple years late in coming but I am new-ish to fantasy so have only recently discovered you … and your website.
Surely as an IT man you know a graphic designer who could, not too expensively, create a cover and pre-press instructions for you on how and with which materials to use to create a hard or paper back version of your novel(s). Once you’ve spoken with your local print shop (or possibly an online book printer?) to determine a per unit price, you could then sell this package on your website. Purchasers would be instructed to take or send the package to their printer of choice to create the hard copy. Your margin probably wouldn’t be overly substantial but pennies are money too, are they not? And it’s super low-maintenance.
Thanks for the advice. I was able to put together the materials for a paperback edition of The Book of Deacon trilogy and its prequel. The only thing standing between me and producing paperbacks of everything else is the time. As for hardcover, that I’ve not looked into very deeply. Maybe someday.
I too made my first Nook purchases with the following second and third books of the trilogy. I wasn’t able to put it down unless forced to. For myself, I rather enjoyed the ‘no chapter breaks’; it is easy enough to pick up reading where you left off electronically and it kept the story flowing. It is something different to be recognized from other authors.
Thanks for that great adventure.
Hi. Thanks for the support! I’m glad that you liked the lack of chapter breaks, but from the looks of it, most of my readers would prefer I split into chapters. The Sci Fi book has chapters, as does the upcoming sequel. As for the future fantasy books? Well, we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Thanks for the comment!
I just finished the first book. As a 40-something Grandmother, I am very pleased to say that this experience took me back to the first novel that touched my soul. I was around 14 years old and my older brother lent me “A spell for Chameleon”, by Piers Anthony. My granddaughter is only a toddler, but I plan to share The Book of Deacon with her, as soon as she can read. Thank you for taking me back to such a youthful and exciting time, in my life.
Hi! Thanks for the comment! I’m honored that you would compare me to Piers Anthony, and that you would look forward to sharing my story with your granddaughter. It makes me extremely happy to know that you enjoyed the book.
I am getting ready to download the next book. You are very gifted and I look forward to seeing more from you.
I read and thoroughly enjoyed the entire Book of Deacon trilogy! I was one of the people you reeled in with the free download of the first book and I became so invested in the story and the characters that I had no choice but to buy the other two, so very well done, indeed! The world had a unique feel even with the myriad of aspects that seemed familiar from various other fantasy works, and I found myself constantly wondering how they would accomplish their prophesied task. Great job! I will admit that I’m a bit jealous, though–as a self-published author, myself, this really makes me wish my own book would sell as well as yours! 😛
Thanks for picking up the trilogy, I’m glad you liked it. Regarding your own book, don’t get too disheartened. It took me well over a year to make more than a few dollars off of these books. All it takes is a few people spreading the word and suddenly you’ve got a sales spike on your hands. (Though, as you point out, a little bait on the hook in the form of a free book doesn’t hurt.) Thanks for reading!
I try not to get too upset about my own book–I do sell a copy or two a week and I’m pretty happy with that, really, since I didn’t actually set out to make money off of it–it’s just the idea that it could provide some much needed additional income that’s appealing, haha. In any case, you are quite welcome and thank you! I wrote a review on the first Book of Deacon book on Amazon, since every review helps!
Many thanks, and good luck!
Dear Mr. Lallo
I just wanted to thank you for writing such a marvelous book. My 15 year old daughter and I both thoroughly enjoyed it. I just purchased the next two from B&N.
Three things I really liked:
1) No chapter breaks. It was easier to put the book down when I didn’t have to “just finish this chapter”
2) It wasn’t a soap opera book! Usually books this length have so many characters and a story for each that they only have space for a chapter or two of each character like watching a soap opera.
3) The story itself. I believe that this will be one of those that I have to read at least once a year just to reacquaint myself with old friends. I can relate to Myranda, the “street-wise” but still naive girl, and Deacon is just like the men in my life kind of geeky but so charming.
Thanks again
Many thanks! I’m glad you and your daughter enjoyed the book, and I hope you enjoy the rest of the story. It is funny, many of the things you liked are things that others have complained about, particularly the lack of chapters. I’m glad to see that there are folks out there who are a fan of that choice. Thanks for the comment!
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Thank you for writing such a refreshing take on the fantasy genre. The cave of the beast and the discovery of the hidden village within blew my mind! I especially liked the scene I’n the tavern with the bag of copper and when we first met Leo! Great work and I cant wait to read through the second and third!
I am sorry about the spoilers, it didn’t even occur to me when I wrote this. If it needs to be removed or edited let.me.know!
Don’t worry about it. The comments on the site are a minefield of spoilers already. (I’d advise caution reading other comments, because book 2 is spoiled fairly frequently, in fact.) Thanks for expressing concern though. I’ll apply a warning to the top of your comment. Since I’ve got a moment, I may as well try to track down and label as many other instances as possible. Thanks again for commenting!
Thank you very much! Writing the village of Entwell was one of the more entertaining parts of the trilogy for me. (I might have to find a way to spend some more time there in future books.) I hope you enjoy the rest of the trilogy!
I just bought the second book today off amazon. Awesome so far picking up right where the first left off! It makes it so hard to stop reading when there are no chapter breaks. Hours just slip by!
Glad you’re continuing to enjoy the story. You can blame Terry Pratchett for my lack of chapters. I just got through reading through most of the Discworld series when I was looking into polishing the books up for publication and thought, “If he doesn’t chapterize, maybe I can get away with it.”
I like to write short stories and I hope to some day make a book. How were u able to get it published on the e-reader market places? We’ll be famous authors together!
Hi. Congrats on your interest in writing. Getting your books out on the market is actually really easy. The two places I used to publish my books were Smashwords.com and Kindle Direct Publishing. Smashwords has a how-to here. and KDP has a self publishing guide here. Both are free. If you sign up and follow the directions, you can have a book for sale on all of the same markets as mine. If you give it a try, good luck!
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What an enchanting series! I am a high school art teacher and have never much been interested in Fantasy. I Iean more to Stephen King and Dean Koontz and Jane Austen, and other authors that fully engage the mind on several levels. Your books have engaged my mind and given me a new direction to follow and explore, for that I thank you.
I downloaded your first book on my Kindle ( saving a tree) and before I was half way through I had to get the other two as well as “Jade” which I am in the process of reading.
The beautifully molded characters are delightful and the rich detail weaves a story that fascinates the mind and nourishes the soul . The character of each hero and Myn gives the reader an easily identifiable model that is strong yet real with obstacles and flaws to overcome. Ivy especially was intriguing as she struggled to control the emotions that could cripple her.
I cannot say that I loved one character more than another as in truth, I came to love them all, even Lain’s erstwhile partner, don’t we all have a self-serving side.
I have also become a new fan of no chapter headings as it made the reading flow easily with no interruptions almost as if I were listening to a story teller in person rather than reading a book. Great idea!
Your work speaks of and addresses the human condition in all its glory and weakness and I plan on recommending your books to my high school students. Your creativity will spark and ignite creativity in others, that I can foretell.
The only disappointment, for me, was the ending of the hero Lain. He has such potential for development and rebuilding.
Thank you for a wonderful read. I look forward to more books packed with adventure, beauty, and excitement. You are a truly gifted story teller, keep writing.
Susan
Wow, thanks! I’m glad you liked the books. It is flattering, and borderline intimidating, to know that I’ll be recommended to students. I might be influencing young minds! Thanks for commenting, and thanks for reading!
The Book Of Deacon was amazing!!! I am a new Nook owner and came upon this book after browsing through the billions of free ebooks. I am a semi-green reader, and was a little hesitant about reading this book……but #1. Free is awesome, and #2. The reviews were outstanding. So I had to try it out. With a job, 3 children, and husband, I am crazy busy. The Book Of Deacon took me away everyday and I could not wait to get my hands on it!! The characters are great and the story even better! I’m visiting your site to find out how to purchase (very happy and willing to do so) the second book. I recom this book to anyone with an ereader. I will certainly buy this book when it is published. Thank you so much for writing and sharing this incredible adventure!!
Hi. Thanks, I’m really glad you liked the book! It makes me feel good to know that people are enjoying the story AND spreading the word.
Joseph hi,
This story is amazing, I’m reading it every night and gets even more interesting and fun, I’m in colombia, passing it over to my friends.
Rgds,
Hi! Thanks for reading, and for taking the time to comment. I’m really glad you’re enjoying the story. Thanks for spreading the word!
Like others before me, I downloaded The Book of Deacon for free and became so engrossed in the story that The Great Convergence and The Battle of Verril became my first book purchases on my Nook. I loved the flow of your stories and the detail used in seens like the valley at the end of Verril. You’ve joined my author watch list next to Jim Butcher! Please keep the adventures coming!!!
Thanks! I’m a Jim Butcher fan myself. (One of these days I really need to finish reading the Dresden Files.) I’ll do my best to continue producing stories you’ll like!
I don’t comment very often but I loved your books! I have read alot of fantasy and relly enjoyed this series. Thanks:)
Thanks so much for reading!
I have to say that I rather enjoyed the first book and as a result immediately bought the second one on Amazon. I really like how Myranda is steadfast in her beliefs but open to growing as an individual. I really like the character of Lain as well and can’t wait to see him develop and open up. My one concern though is that some of the dialogue appears forced or unnatural. I’d also like to know why (maybe I will once I continue on in the journey!) Myranda was so adept at learning all these magical techniques; especially faster than anyone in Entwell’s recorded history! Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed the first book and after finishing it, within minutes started reading the second. Thanks for an original and refreshing series!
Hi. Thanks, I’m glad you liked the books! I’ve had a few readers tell me they had some trouble with my dialogue. I’m always trying to improve, though. In time some things are revealed about Myranda that explain some of her more noteable skills. Thanks for reading.
Your books are amazing! I litterally read ‘The Great Convergence’ for six hours straight last week! I was wondering, was there a specific place where you learned to write, or did you kind of just teach yourself? The dialogue seems like it`s perfect for the characters, and the settings and ideas are all unique. Also, do you plan out your characters or do they develope on their own? Ivy and Lain are really well thought out — they`re definately my favorite characters. Honestly, I think this book is just as good as the Hunger Games, if not better. I just wish more people knew about it 🙂 If this became a movie, I would definately come to the premiere. I`m sure it would turn out great!
Hi! I’m very happy that you are enjoying my story so much. To keep from cluttering this page up too much, I’ll send you an email to answer your questions.
Would it be possible for you to send me an email answering those questions, i am also wondering where and how you developed your writing style.
I’m glad you enjoyed the books! Sure, I’ll send you an email later today.
I LOVE this series!! I was so sad when I read the last page of “The Battle of Verril” because I wanted to keep reading. I was glued to my Nook when I was reading all the books, and have told my fellow fantasy fans about your work. I have a baby, so finding time to read in the midst of everything was challenging, but I found the time so I could find out what happened next! Great job!
Hi Jennifer! Many thanks for the comment. I’m very happy you enjoyed the series. Thanks for spreading the word! I really appreciate the support and kind words. Have a great day!
Blah, where to begin? I absolutely LOVED your Book of Deacon series and Jade. I’m one of those people that only look for free books (because I really love to read and don’t have money to make any purchases) : ( but had to buy the second two in the series.
It’s authors like you that make a 1.5 hour trip to school (and then the same back) worth taking. I get so engrossed in your words, that I’m oblivious to the rest of the world.
However, and I know you’ve probably heard this plenty of times from others, the typos are driving me bonkers. One of my Grammas was an English major and she drilled into my head how important grammar is, and so due to it, I’m constantly wanting to correct papers, books, and the likes.
Pleeeeeeeease tell me there is going to be another book after Jade! I was rather bummed how quickly you ended that story. When I got somewhere around page 150, I was thinking that there’s no way the story ends here; it must be continued like the Deacon series. : (
Ooo… I saw somewhere up there ^ that someone had questioned/suggested a movie… I totally agree with them. I would love to see this turned into a movie and I’m sure you have many other fans that would too.
Many applauds and cheers,
Kellom
Hi! I’m glad you enjoyed the series! Oh, yes. I’ve heard about the grammar issues. I apologize, and I’m working on fixing them. (Book 3 is due to get a big update, and some time in July I’ll send Jade out for a brush up.)
It is great that you enjoyed Jade. For a long time people stopped at the final book of the trilogy and didn’t seem interested in that little story. Slowly I’m seeing more and more people giving it a try, which makes me feel good. Sorry about the abrupt ending. I wrote it at a time when I thought people weren’t reading the trilogy because they were too long, so I tried to keep Jade brief. Will there be more stories after it? Well… If you’re looking for more specifically about Jade, I can’t guarantee anything. Halfax, on the other hand, is indeed showing up again. I’ve also got a prequel story in the works that focuses on Lain.
Thanks for the comment, and thanks for reading!
There’s no need to apologize. I know what it’s like to get caught up in writing and forget about grammar.
I wonder if perhaps people stopped at the end of the trilogy because they weren’t aware of Jade? The only reason why I read it was because the trilogy was great; and then I got excited when I discovered it was a continuation.
I wouldn’t ask for more about Jade. I think it’s great that she has a happy ending. It’s what you said about Halfax that has me curious and craving more stories, which is why I asked.
I’m looking forward to the prequel. And again, excellent job with your writings.
Cheers,
Kellom
Oh, and about the movie, I’d love to see it happen too. Unfortunately, so far I haven’t even been able to get a literary agent to give me a second look, let alone someone from Hollywood. Maybe someday!
Hi Kellom! If you’re looking for other works to read by Joseph Lallo, give his sci-fi a read. He has written two books. 1. Bypass Gemini 2. Unstable Prototypes. Both are absolutely fantastic. I’ve never been a sci-fi fan, but these two books have made me one. 🙂
I myself am not into sci-fi books. I’ve tried reading some amazing authors sci-fi and have never been able to get into them, otherwise I probably would have already read Joseph’s. But thank you for informing me of these books.
Cheers,
Kellom
loved the first two books of the Deacon series. Are you finished fixing up the third book yet? I want to make sure that I’m reading the correct edition.
Hi! Yep, the edited version of book 3 is finished. It is live on Amazon and Smashwords right now, so if you’d intended to buy from one of those, go right ahead. It was shipped to Barnes & Noble, Apple, and the others over the course of this week, so if you are picking it up there, you might want to wait a week.
I’m almost done with the The Book of Deacon. I’d never been a fan of e-readers, but for backpacking and camping I finally decided to get one and try out. Your book is the first one I downloaded and halfway through it I bought all your other ebooks. I’m a fan of both Sci-fi and fantasy, with my favorite authors rangin from Timothy Zahn to Terry Brooks. You are an excellent author, and definitely keeping my interest.
As a side note, long books and series (ie: trilogies) are better than short ones. Once you’ve invested time and become attached to characters you hate to only have one book about them.
Hi! I’m glad you liked the story! Thank you very much for picking up the rest, and I hope you enjoy them just as much. I’m a fan of long stories and series as well. As a reader, I like them because it allows you to stay with the characters you’ve come to enjoy. As a writer… frankly, I’ve never really gotten the hang of telling a short story (Jade was my best attempt, and even that story ended up about twice as long as I intended.) Thanks for reading!
Bravo. I just finished the book of deacon moments ago. Brilliant characters, wonderful imagery, thank you. I just purchased the next two and jade, can’t wait to start them.
Thanks! I’m glad you liked the first book. I hope you enjoy the rest of the series, too!
I am so intensified at this moment! I begged, persuaded, and forced my parents to buy The Book Of Deacon trilogy. After reading the first book, I can’t stop squealing! I can’t stop! Even if I have finished reading a masterpiece of a book, I cannot put it down even if I had read it many times over. Even my father is passionate to know what will happen next. Your book has become our addiction. Not a want, but a need! I am now one of your hardcore fans. Congratulations! Keep up the good work.
Wow, Thanks for the support! It is great to know you’re so enthusiastic about the books, and I hope the rest of the trilogy lives up to expectations. Thanks for reading!
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Thank you, wow what a trio of books, I absolutely loved them, and couldn’t put them down!! So you are responsible for my 2am (uk) late sleeps, only to rise at 5.30am to carry on, I think I read the 3 books in less than a week and I couldn’t get enough. I cried like a baby when I thought poor Myn was gone!! Yep I know I am soppy! Thought Miranda didn’t grieve as much as I did, but soooooo glad when Myn appeared again .. so thanks for cheering me up on that one. Can’t believe poor Liam went though, so you absolutely HAVE to write some more to twist that one back in.
Only issue I can see if you don’t write quick enough xx So after my first decent sleep in ages I am left wondering now what is left to do! apart from go to work of course. Just keep up the good work and get writing. Off to read Jade now xx
Thank you very much! Heh, I apologize for the lost sleep. I’ll do my best to get the next story done quickly. Enjoy Jade. It is fairly short, so you shouldn’t lose too much sleep on that one. Thanks for reading!
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It is a common and valid observation that Myranda doesn’t have nearly the emotional reaction she ought to for Myn’s passing. I guess if I ever do a special edition or something, that’s a scene that needs to be enhanced.
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Thank you.. wow what a trilogy!! I loved the books and couldn’t put them down! Loved the plots, twists and turns, cried like a baby when I thought poor Myn was gone, but thankfully she hadn’t.
Shame that Liam went at the end, so you absolutely have to write more to bring him back into the plots x Just keep up the writing coz you definitely have a fan here in the UK xx
I really like the trilogy but my fav have to be the first book and jade. I like the action but I love it when they are talking instead of fighting everytime they get rested. That why I love book of decon and jade. Will there be a sequel for jade? I love the ending but knowing epidime still out there make me feel unease for jade and her family.
Hi! I’m glad you liked the books, and particularly glad to hear that you liked Jade. I hear comparatively little about that book, so it is nice to know that it has fans. Will there be a sequel? Well, yes and no. I hadn’t had plans for any direct sequels, but there will definitely be stories that take place after it, and there will be at least one character returning. Thanks for reading!
Hi Joseph
Just to say that since my last post regarding the Book of Deacon series, I decided to read your Sci Fi books too and whilst I wasn’t too sure I could get into sci fi I figured if anyone can get me into it then it would be your books. I was right I absolutely loved them! Great stories particularly liked Ma and Lex the most but the other characters were great too. You just have to write more adventures for Lex. So keep up the good work xx
Thanks
Norma
Hi. It is great to hear that you enjoyed the (still unnamed) sci-fi series. I certainly plan to write more, but at this point I’ll have to bounce back and forth between fantasy and sci-fi to keep everybody happy. Thanks for reading!
*** SPOILER ***
I just finished the second book of the deacon ! way to GO ! i love when Myranda Celeste and DEacon show’s up at the End 🙂
Thanks! It is great to know that you’re enjoying the story. I’ve heard from quite a few people who didn’t like book 2 because of some of the more unfortunate events that take place in it. If you go on to read the final book, I hope you enjoy it just as much.
Hi Joseph. Loving the series and on the third book with my kindle. Could you phonetically write out Myranda and Myn’s name? My hubby and I have conflicting pronunciations. Hope I’m right!
Looking forward to more of your enjoyable books!
Hi! Glad you’re liking the series. I actually just recently added a few pronunciation keys to the FAQ (there’s a link at the top of the page, or you can or just go to http://www.bookofdeacon.com/faq/
The pronunciation I use for Myranda is the same as Miranda (short I) and for Myn it is like min (short I again). If you pronounce it like “mine”, don’t worry though. You’re not alone.
in less then a week i read the whole Decon series reading other comments from other fans i can look forward to reading Jade. thank you for a great story at 61 years old its nice to know i can look forward too more wonderful books from a writer who has become a favorite! this needs to be made into a movie!
Thanks! I’m very please that you enjoyed my story. Hope you’ve been enjoying Jade, too.
Yesterday I reach the end of book one of the Deacon serie, which I purchase through Amazon because it was free. Being you unknown to me it was a lucky choice and I’m going to buy the 2nd and the 3rd because I found your story addictive! 😉
I start to read it withount any rush, during lunch time at my jobplace with my kindle, and I found it truly interesting and yesterday I spent the afternoon and the evening to learn what will happen to Myranda.
Sometimes I felt like “oh, I know what is going to happen now”, but I must admit that you made it happen in a good way, and sometimes you surprised me a bit.
I’m intrigued by Lain a lot, I hope he’ll deserve my simpathy through the next books too..
I hope the book will be released in Italy too, ’cause I’d like to spread it to my fy-reading friends.
Thank you, I really enjoyed the story, the chararcters, the style.
Eliana
Hi Eliana, thanks for the comment. I’m happy that you took a chance on my story and found it to be worthwhile. Hopefully you enjoy the rest of the trilogy. I’ve recently been speaking with a German publisher about a German version of the trilogy, and a Bulgarian version just recently became available. There aren’t any plans to do an Italian version yet, but if the offer comes up I’ll certainly do my best to make it happen. Thanks again!
Hey,
I liked the first book and I am currently trying to come up with he second one. Im going through a rough time in life and books are the only escape I have from the world when I finaly get quite time. Hopefuly I will get up for the other two and they are as great as the first. I loved Myranda and Lain they are my two favorites.
Hi,
I’m glad you enjoyed the first book. If what’s keeping you from trying the next two books is cost, Smashwords lets you sample the first half of each for free. You can also shoot me an email. From time to time I’m known to give free copies to folks who ask nicely. Thanks for reading!
I downloaded the first book on my nook when I was looking up something fantasy-related to read in the middle of the month (meaning cheap or free), and now I’m going to buy the second and third tomorrow. I might even get Jade, too.
Great! Glad you liked the story!
I’ll make this short—
WOW!!!!!
OK not that short, just finished book 3,and i suppose i’ll have to wait a life time to see these books go to the big screen. TROUBLE is i dont have the same amount if years left as when i first read the lord of the rings and the Hobbit–normally i dont read this type of book– in my quest for free ebooks i picked The Book of Deacon – im more of a Werewolf/vampire fan.When i got to Myn i bought the other two books..Your style of writing is the best i’ve read in years.
Bayonne- i spent 5 years there in the 70’s stationed on the USS Fisk, hung out at the big Apple alot. I’ll be reading Jade next and what ever comes up about Lain. I cant wait till they come out at the movies but ive already covered that- thank you for my trip outside of reality. There no way to describe how much fun i had
I finished the Book of Deacon series and enjoyed them greatly.
Great! Glad you liked them!
I have to say I love the trilogy of books you have written I am ingrossed with them 🙂
I have only read the first one so far…. How could you leave me hanging like that…… Can not wait to start the next one so well written and so clever
Anymore in the pipe line
All the best
Pippa-Jane
Hi! It is great to know that you’ve enjoyed the first book. I certainly hope you enjoy the rest. I actually do have another store or two in the pipeline, a prequel that follows Lain. There’s also an audio book of the short novel “Jade” in the works. Thanks for the interest and support!
I would love to know how you begain to write????
and where do you get your ideas from as your mind is a fantastic fantisy….
I would love to be able to write not your sort of work but for my line of work
any tips???/
I am saving the other books for while i am on holiday mind you it is killing me not to strat now ….
Take care
Pippa-Jane
Let’s see. I began to write out of boredom, way back in 2nd or 3rd grade. I was pretty good in school, so it was a common occurrence that I’d finish a given assignment and have nothing to do. I’d scribble silly little stories on the back pages of my notebooks. By high school I was doing it in every spare moment. The initial ideas came from my friends and I improvising new stories and characters for some old video games we used to play. Since then I’ll get ideas from just about anything I read, watch, listen to, or see go by outside my window. Music is a big inspiration. The best advice I can give regarding improving your writing is to get a lot of practice. It also helps to read a lot of examples of writing similar to what you are trying to produce and see if there are any common techniques you can adopt.
Hope that helps!
Thank you for your advise, as yes i do read a lot of work related books
yours is the firt none work related book i have read in over 10 years……..
and please keep up the good work 🙂
Many thanks
Pippa-Jane
Thanks! I’ll try my best to keep the stories flowing.
I’ve read the Book of Deacon series and the two Lex Alexander books. First, I can’t believe you’re not blowing up the charts with the quality I’ve seen so far. Secondly, stop tweeting and get back to writing. Count me as ready to buy anything you write, including your grocery list.
Thanks for the enthusiastic support! I assure you that following this reply the next 140 characters I write will be directed at the word processor rather than the internet.
I’m only 50 pages in and completely hooked! Nothing has even happened yet! This is definitely my favorite kind of book.
Great to hear! Hopefully you’ll continue to feel that way. Thanks for the comment.
Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your first book and have just purchased the next two along with Jade. Also, I have 17 grandchildren, many of whom are teens. I constantly read books that may be a good read for them. And this made my list! Thanks for writing a clean, exciting, and interesting book that I can recommend to them as well as my two sisters~~all old ladies who enjoy reading a good tome.
Hi Linda! Thanks for the comment. I’m glad you enjoyed the books, and that you consider it a good read for the youngsters in the family. 17 grandchildren! Congratulations. I hope you enjoy the rest of the story, and thanks for reading.
I just finished the final book of the book of deacon series.freaking awesome.good job.
Thanks! I’m really glad that you enjoyed it!
Hi,
A fellow computer engineer and amateur writer here. I have just finished reading the first book in the series and am buying the rest first thing tomorrow. I have read it in a course of one day and I honestly didn’t expect it to be this good. The funny thing is, I hate the charater of Myranda, I hate that she is such a gentle goodie with no backbone. And since I am a female about her age I can’t in any way relate to her because of her character, I preffer strong female charaters. In spite of that I still want to read more and that’s why I admire your writing. To write such an entralling story which compensates something as major as the unlikable main charater is amazing. I can’t wait to read more.
Thanks for the comment! I’m sorry you don’t like Myranda, but hopefully the rest of the trilogy will shape her into someone you can tolerate. I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the rest of the writing, too. It means a lot to me that you would be fan enough of the world surrounding her to continue with the series despite your dislike of the central character. It never ceases to amaze me how widely opinions vary from person to person. As I said in a blog interview a little while ago, some have sent me emails singing the praises of Myranda as a strong female lead, while others have decried her as “borderline mentally deficient.” I’d love to hear back from you once you’ve read a bit more, and thanks for sharing your opinion!
Here I am again!
I finally finished reading the last two books and am now facing what every book lover faces after finishing a good series, you know, that feeling of emptiness and longing for more. I sure hope you will continue writing fantasy series, it seems that you truly have a talent for story telling, especially concerning this genre. I find my self a little jealous.
You were right, I did start to tolerate Myranda a little more, I still didn’t like her that much, but she did kind of grow on me as a character. I guess not everything is about having ideal characters, them being flawed has it’s own certain charm. I especially liked Deacon (although compared to him most other characters seemed quite unintelligent), I also enjoyed Caya quite a lot. Ivy was mostly quite annoying however I often found myself chuckling at her dialogues with Ether.
SPOILER PART
I kind of feel sorry for Ether tho, with Lain gone and her purpose fulfilled I imagine her leading quite a lonely existence from now on. I was a tad bit disappointed about how abruptly Trigorah’s story ended. These are just some of my opinions, I really enjoyed the series and I am kind of sad they ended and that I can’t read more. So I hope you will write more, and write it fast! I’m addicted to your writing. You successfully created a whole new world, your ability to tell a story is amazing as well as placing that story in a beautifully crafted environment with an amazing sense for depicting details in just the right amount. I also hope that some of your future works (and there better be a lot of them!) will also include some books that are not targeting such an large audience age wise. Although I enjoy your writing I also enjoy books that are not totally below pg-13 you know, for us people above 20, that kind of makes stories to me a little more “realistic”. You know, it’s kind of like Mexican Salsa, you can eat your nachos with a non spicy sauce but it’s not “the real deal”. Well I’m rambling, sorry about that.
Thank you so much for your response but above all THANK YOU for a wonderful reading experience.
Glad to hear from you again! And I’m happy that the rest of the trilogy took some of the edge off of Myranda for you. I’m definitely planning to continue the story from both ends, with a prequel coming out (hopefully in a few months) and sequels for later. You make some good points about Ether, and it will be an interesting subject to explore in later writings. As for upping the age rating on future writings, we’ll see. I’ve had a few people calling for darker and/or more risque themes, but I’ve also had people thanking me for a story they can read their kids. I’ve experimented with some more adult moments and language in the Sci-Fi books. Time will tell how things go with the fantasy stories.
Thanks again for sharing your thoughts! I’ll do my best to write swiftly.
[…] the multi-talented, multi-genre author of Bypass Gemini and the Book of Deacon novels among others, Joseph Lallo. I asked him to visit my blog because I’ve been very impressed with his ability to juggle […]
I loved the book of deacon series. On the eight hour drive from Lake Tahoe in July I told them the whole first half of the series, and for the rest of the summer told them pieces of it as we were standing in line and driving around while running errands. It always quieted them down as they couldn’t wait for the next installment. Thank you for that.
I loved it just as much as they did, but I just wanted to tell you how much I liked the new Red Shadow series. You are definitely honing your craft as you go, as the delivery of this was better in regards to your description of action. In the deacon series sometimes it would drag out a bit, maybe because there more enemies, but in this book there was no such shortcoming and I read every word. I absolutely loved this book.
Now I get a taste of my own medicine and must wait patiently like my children until the storyteller begins to tell me the rest. I hope you write it before I’ve run out of things to say when standing in line at Target!
I’m happy to know that my story served such a useful purpose! I’ll certainly do my best to give you more material to share during those down times.
Oh my Gods. I just finished the first book and I am almost salivating to get my hands on the second and third. I love Myn so much. And some of the ways of magic in the book reminded me of practices in my own realm of Witchcraft/Paganism. I’m definitely a fan. Thank you for such an amazing book. I’m off to go get the second and third 🙂
Hi. Glad you liked it! I’ve had more than one person mention that the magic in this book is reminiscent of things like Wicca. Nice to know that my own imaginings can conjure to mind actual practices! I hope you enjoy the rest of the story.
I just finished book 3 of the series and I really enjoyed them. I’m looking forward to reading more of your work in the future, but my one request is that you put chapters in? The copies I bought only had # marks in transition spots, but I would get so entrenched that I wouldn’t put my book down because there were no good stopping points and then ending burning dinner… Oops… So that’s my request! Thanks for writing these, I really appreciated how clean they were! I didn’t feel like I had to skip parts because of raunchy sees scenes and that was nice! Alright, happy writing!
The request for chapters is a common one. I actually created a special edition a few months ago that was chapterized, but I haven’t rolled it out to replace the original yet. Still trying to figure out the best way to do it without upsetting people who preferred it without chapters. That said, beyond Jade, all of my other full length novels have chapters. Thanks for reading!
I really enjoyed the 1st book in your trilogy “The Book of Deacon” I even rated it 5 stars and have purchased the second book. It is a GREAT story, great characters, vivid descriptions and reading it left me breathless. BUT, as a college educated man you should pride yourself on putting out a well edited copy. The story was compelling enough to skip over the wrong words, but they do distract the reader. While spell check and grammer check are usefull, there is more to be considered. If is so obvious you are tallented perhaps beyond your own recognition, so please raise the bar, you can go far! (Did I edit myself correctly)? K.
I’m glad you liked the story. I’ve grappled with the grammar of this series for quite a while, but despite my best efforts I haven’t been able to catch every error. I’ve been taking a lot more care in later books to have professionals polish things up. I’ll do my best to raise the bar, but my college education was at a technical institute, so my literary training isn’t exactly world class. Thanks for the comment!
Perhaps you were looking for ‘it’ rather than ‘if’ and one less ‘l’? … in your third to last punctuated “sentence”.
Perhaps it was an ignored provocation to duel.
The fact I missed that is probably evidence of why grammar issues persist in my writing.
I literally just this moment finished The Book Of Deacon. I decided to spare a few moments before racing to Amazon to buy the next 2, only to leave this message.
From what I can assume by reading your biography, you are someone that went to school for IT and ended up a writer. That alone has warmed my heart. My friends and family have been after me for years to allow my main character to tell her story and, up until now, I have been afraid. Thank you for writing a brilliant series and thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing such an amazing job, that you have encouraged me to follow suit.
On a side note I used to RP on twitter and could completely imagine playing a character like Myn. That little dragon has captured my heart in a big way!
Again, thank you.
Thanks for commenting! I am indeed a person who went to school for IT (well, I went to school for computer engineering, but close enough) and sure enough ended up as a writer. I’m still an IT guy, though. For now, anyway.
If my story (both the story I wrote and the story of how I wrote it) has inspired you to do some writing of your own, then I’m extra proud. If you have any questions about the book biz, or at least the self-publishing biz) feel free to email me at the address on my contact page.
I never would have thought of someone RPing on twitter as one of my characters, particularly Myn, but it’s a fun thought! I hop you enjoy the next two books, and thanks again!
[…] I came across The Book of Deacon as promotion from the Story Bundle newsletter and was curious. It has a rich fantasy universe which is not too far off and caught me with its interesting characters – enough that I bought both the remaining books of the trilogy as well as the additional ones set in the same universe. The author of this series is Joseph Lallo. […]
Wow. I just signed up for the newsletter and when I saw Bayonne I barely believed it. I went to High School in Bayonne!
I cant imagine that I use to live there when you use to. (Have moved to a different place now)
Heck I could have even passed you, who has became the writer of one of my favorite books.
Wow! Small world! I went to Bayonne High between 1997 and 2001. My folks still live there.
I graduated 2008.
Ha, no wonder you went to comic con, easy lightrail to train ride to get there.
Darn right!
well nevemind you moved at this point haha
True, but I’m still just a train ride away. Takes about the same time, just costs a bit more.
Man I should go to Comic Con again to meet up with ya. I couldnt go this year.
Well, as a rule I try to attend, so I’m sure you’ll have plenty of chances.
So then the question is. Are you a comic fan, an anime fan, or a video game fan?
Video Games more than the rest. I’m a fan of comics and comic characters, but I don’t collect them. (I do binge read sometimes on Comixology). I’ve watched some anime, but not often enough to call myself a fan. Some Cowboy Beebop. Some DBZ.
I read manga. I could never get into American Comics sadly. I’m a big anime fan. But, I’m probably a stronger video gamer. Currently I’m about to replay my favorite video game of all time: The Longest Journey. Which to this day is one of the best video game stories I’ve encountered. Are you ps, xbox, or pc? (sorry if this is off topic on your book website haha)
Primarily PC (steam) and Xbox (I’ve got a 360 and an XBox One). I have a WiiU too, but haven’t hooked it back up since the move. I don’t play ANY of them as much as I used to, because I’ve sort of been locked in on the writing and dealing with the aftermath of quitting the day job. (And before that I just didn’t have the time.) I don’t mind going off topic, but if you stop getting replies, that’s because I went to bed.
Im on Steam mostly myself now. I was xbox 360, but when it came time to step up to xbox one, I decided to get a pc.
But becoming a full time writer would lower freetime for sure. Yet, writing is so much fun, I say its a good trade-off.
Yes, it is 1 am now. I should be getting to bed myself. It was nice talking to you. Good night.
Writing is definitely an improvement. Just got to get the work/play schedule ironed out. Sleep well.
I just got your other books, other than Book of Deacon, to try out. (Though I think Book of Deacon will always have my heart over them)
Also the short story collection that has a short story from Deacon, along with keeping my eyes out for Blackguards.
Hello!
I just wanted to let you know that I absolutely adored your trilogy – The Book Of Deacon. On reading the first one which took me two evenings, I immediately knew that I simply had to purchase all of your other books in connection with this trilogy also. I’m doing my Alevels at the moment and your books have lead me to two weeks worth of rather poor school work – reading seemed more important!
The book, Jade, reduced me to tears when the innocent yet insurmountablely strong girl left Halfax for Terry! I wished that story could have been a bit longer so that we could see the relevance of Epidime being an elf! However I can’t fault your work. I read a lot and fantasy is my favourite genre, so naturally I have read a lot of fantasy material. Cornelia Funke, and Christopher Paolini have always been fairly high on my personal ranking but you are definitely up there with them.
I honestly love the length of your books, the stories seem endless and even the pang of the sadness that is left with the turning of the last page is one quickly over written because of the stories that I have created in my own head. Deacon had my heart from as soon as we met him, as did Myranda. My over vivd imagination throughly enjoyed bring your words to life, and it’s sort of funny how you described practically everything that I think the world has once been. Silly I know with so much prod of evolution but one can but think for ones self.
I do kind of wish that there had been a bigger back story to the Desmeres and Trigorah secret, and I found the D’karon quite hard to follow – were they spirits who took the forms of what they wanted or were they more than that? Also how sis the generals overwhelm the king so quickly? Anyway that’s me just being silly probably, but thank youmfor your engulfing work, I have recommended it to everyone I knowpretty much, and I look forward to purchasing your other works.
I will probably be In touch again, if and when I fulfil my ambitions of writing a fantasy novel for hints and tips of you would be so kind as to share, but first I must finish my school work, thank you again,
Rhianna Hughes, 17, Wales.
Hi,
I’m glad you enjoyed my stories, though I’m sorry your school work had to suffer!
Believe it or not, but there’s a fair amount of Desmeres stuff on the way in the future. People have requested a followup to “The Rise of the Red Shadow”, which would inevitably involve the arrival of Desmeres in his life, and Desmeres also has a short standalone story coming which will among other things address his feelings for Trigorah. I think you’ve pretty much got the D’Karon understood. They are beings who can take other forms, and they took control of the kingdom largely by offering up a military force to “support” the king and then immediately making it clear that they alone had the ability to control it, essentially taking the North hostage.
Talk to you later. Good luck on your own writing!
Thank you for clearing that up!
I’ve just read some of the comments and there are some suggestions of a film! Personally I think that’s a terrible idea, your writing is brilliant and to have such marvellous description destroyed by someone else’s interperatation would be such a shame. That’s possibly just me though, because im always overly critical of films especially since the Eragon tragedy. Wonderful book destroyed in the matter of an hour and a half! Anyway it’s obviously your choice and school work can wait for a few hours occasionally!
Also so looking forward to the Desmeres stuff! Gosh, how exciting
The first Desmeres thing will be a short story which will be in an anthology in a few weeks. After that will be the deeper stuff.
It’s true that film can frequently… wander away from the source material. Particularly in the case of fantasy. But that said, I’d still love to see it happen. If the film turned out to be a travesty, at least there would still be the books.
Will it be available to purchase on iBooks?☺️
I’m fairly sure it will be, but this is one of the rare things I’m not self-publishing, so it is up to them: http://www.ragnarokpub.com/#!blackguards-anthology/cf3b
Awesome, thanks millions x
[…] Joseph Lallo is the author of The Book of Deacon Trilogy and writes in sci-fi, fantasy and steampunk. It took him four years of self-publishing before it became his sole source of income and he could quit his day job. He believes learning how to market efficiently is the only way that a self-published author can be successful, but is also the largest hurdle for new authors to overcome. […]