From Grief to Greatness: My Journey as a Debut Author of The Nexus Prince

Writing a novel is never just about putting words on a page. For me, it was a path through grief, a way to heal, and a chance to create something that could bring joy and laughter to others. My debut novel, The Nexus Prince, is a young adult fantasy and sci-fi story filled with dry humor, sarcasm, and a touch of breaking the fourth wall. It features dragons, comedic sidekicks, and a dystopian world that I have spent five years building. I am John Lucy Ash, and this is the story behind my journey from personal loss to the release of my first book in 2026.

The Nexus Prince fantasy novel open to dragon illustrations

Finding Solace in Storytelling

When grief hit my life, I struggled to find an outlet that could help me process the emotions. Writing became that outlet. Instead of focusing on the pain, I poured my energy into creating a world where humor and fantasy could coexist with darker themes. The process was cathartic. It allowed me to explore complex feelings without being overwhelmed by them.

The story of The Nexus Prince grew from this need to heal. I wanted to write something that was not only entertaining but also honest about the struggles we face. The dystopian setting reflects the chaos and uncertainty I felt, while the dragons and comedic sidekicks bring lightness and hope. Writing this novel helped me turn grief into something meaningful.

Crafting a Unique Blend of Genres

Combining young adult fantasy with sci-fi elements was a challenge I embraced. I wanted The Nexus Prince to stand out by mixing genres in a way that felt fresh and exciting. The dystopian world is layered with futuristic technology and ancient magic, creating a rich backdrop for the characters’ adventures.

The humor in the book is dry and sarcastic, often breaking the fourth wall to engage readers directly. This style adds a playful tone that balances the darker themes. For example, one of the comedic sidekicks often comments on the absurdity of their situation, making readers laugh while still moving the story forward.

Creating pet dragons was another highlight. These creatures are not just companions but characters with their own quirks and personalities. Their interactions with the main characters add depth and warmth to the story.

The Five-Year Journey of Writing and Revising

Writing The Nexus Prince took five years, a period filled with both excitement and frustration. Early drafts were rough, and I had to rewrite entire sections to get the tone right. Balancing humor with serious themes required careful attention to avoid undermining the story’s impact.

During this time, I joined writing groups and sought feedback from beta readers. Their insights helped me improve character development and plot pacing. For instance, one reader suggested expanding the backstory of the main antagonist, which added complexity and made the conflict more compelling.

The revision process also involved cutting scenes that didn’t serve the story, even if I loved them. This was difficult but necessary to keep the narrative focused and engaging.

Preparing for the Release in 2026

With the manuscript polished, I am now preparing for the release of The Nexus Prince in 2026. This phase involves working with editors, cover designers, and marketing teams to bring the book to readers.

I am also planning events and online activities to connect with readers and share the journey behind the book. Engaging with the young adult fantasy and sci-fi community is important to me because these genres have given me so much inspiration.

What Readers Can Expect

Readers of The Nexus Prince can look forward to:

• A dystopian world filled with danger and mystery

• Dragons that are more than just mythical creatures

• Characters with sharp wit and sarcastic humor

• Moments that break the fourth wall, creating a unique reading experience

• Themes of resilience, friendship, and hope amidst adversity

  
  

This book is for anyone who enjoys stories that mix laughter with serious moments and who appreciates a fresh take on fantasy and sci-fi.

Writing as a Healing Process

Looking back, writing The Nexus Prince was more than a creative project. It was a way to work through grief and find strength. The characters’ struggles and triumphs mirror my own journey, making the story deeply personal.

For anyone facing loss or hardship, I encourage exploring creative outlets. Writing, drawing, or any form of expression can help transform pain into something beautiful. My hope is that The Nexus Prince will inspire readers not only to enjoy a good story but also to find their own paths to healing.

Moving Forward with Excitement

As the release date approaches, I feel a mix of nerves and excitement. Sharing a story that took years to craft is both thrilling and humbling. I am grateful for the support of friends, family, and readers who have encouraged me along the way.

The journey from grief to greatness is ongoing, but The Nexus Prince marks an important milestone. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.

If you enjoy young adult fantasy and sci-fi with a twist of humor and heart, I invite you to join me on this adventure. The world of The Nexus Prince awaits.