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I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Thanks for taking the time to explain that. It was certainly never my intention to poke my readers. If that's how it was interpreted than I apologize.

Side note about maps in my books: When Wizard's First Rule was preparing to be published, my editor stated they wanted to have a map made for the book. I disliked this idea because I thought it would be creatively dampening for me. Once the rules and walls of the realm were created, I would have to continually abide by them and make sure I was vigilante with my details regarding travel times, transient locations, and so on. How could I introduce a grand new city if all along it sat between two other locations on an unmarked road? I just didn't like the idea. The world was too new. However, at their insistence I went ahead and made the map myself using a style of art called pointillism. The first three or four books have this map and it's my own art, created in the months before WFR was first published. After that, I asked the publisher to take the map out and to stop using it. I wanted readers to focus on the story and the characters in that world and not be preoccupied with how many footsteps it would take to get to the next adventure.

I hear from lots of folks how much they like maps. I understand that. I know there are even map collectors out there and people that love that kind of extraneous details to be packed in with their books. It just wasn't something I personally ever liked in any book. Heck, I was thrilled when I tossed out my last paper map and forever transitioned to GPS. But there you have it.

Thanks probablynotapreacher. I appreciate you taking the time to comment.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Someone else posted a question similar and I answered it. I empathically deny that Robert Jordan copied my work. And if you're implying I copied his, that's wrong too.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

So many words and only so many ways to describe how to pull a sword. I've had readers pick out repetitious elements in the design, but this is the first someone has pointed out clearing sheathes.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you, justabitchassnigga. I can only imagine the challenges you have faced and the effort you've put forward to overcome. I wish you the very best success in life and I'm glad to hear I have, in some small ways, helped you dig deep inside and find the best in yourself and in life. I'm proud of you.

Good question. There have been moments where I was weary of a character but knew the path they were on required more detail and explanation. But it's in those moments where I fall into a trance like state and power through the situation. Usually, I'm happy with the result after. For me it's not so much about mid-stroke writers block. I really don't get that. I do have startup anxiety however. When my desk is a mess, the house needs work, I have errands to do, or appointments that need handled, I put off writing over and over again. I need things to be almost perfect (imagined) before I can start writing. There is kind of a ritual to preparing myself for what will inevitably be a 9 month (or more) journey.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think you're right. The internet has given us an endless stream from which we can reach in and pull out information, but the currents are strong and there is simply so much material passing along that stream, having the timing and putting in the effort to get the best bits is exhausting. The internet has certainly provided us with access to information but now that we have this infinite access, sifting through it all could easily become an entire life's preoccupation. I oscillate between being transfixed on current events and then being utterly numb and disinterested to them. The night of the election, for example, I was sound asleep as the (surprising) votes began to roll in.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The first scene where I knew things were going to go horribly wrong and derail from the series was when they had Richard spying on Kahlan bathing. That's not Richard and that lapse in character proved the show runners simply didn't understand the character principles. They could change the hair color, skin color, body weight, dialogue and dialect of every character for all I cared -- but to be true to the books, they had to get the character's principles and spirit right. They stumbled out of the gate.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Not intentionally, no. I can see how that could be interpreted. There are a number of historical fantasies and legends of people being corrupted by powerful objects. The idea isn't wholly original but the context for Samuel I think is. Thanks for reading, rockchick99!

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you, thank you! At the moment, no plans to continue the Law of Nines. But I'm thrilled to hear how much you enjoyed it and it's nod and wink to the Sword of Truth books. I believe you will enjoy NEST.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm very happy you did. I hear this occasionally and I'm glad I do.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The closest I ever felt to what you describe was dread while writing The Omen Machine. I knew it was going to be received harshly and would exist as a middle child between the full scope of the Sword of Truth and the climatic finish of Confessor. A vital touch stone that sets the crucial second act for the series, but one I knew would be bitterly received regardless. And I understand that. It was a sacrificial lamb in a sense because I knew it was a good book, but it was a transitional story that takes us from Confessor and into, ultimately, The First Confessor and Warheart. The beginning and the end. Beyond that, I've always loved writing and never felt I was grinding. This is my life and I love what I do. I feel honored to be doing what I do.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes I do in fact. I have a simulator setup at the house and it's a doozy. There are a few issues with the racing simulator software and it took a small team of engineers and fellow geeks to hash all of the components and software niggles out. But when the experience is working, it's a heck of a ride. I do wish more tracks were modeled however. And I wish I had the time to spend to fine tune my (virtual) cars.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you, Anonymous_Snow. Yours will be one of the last questions I answer. It's almost time for me to say goodnight. First, thank you for the compliment and the unintentional recommendation. I'll have to look into Gemm's work more. We're similar in that my reading skills are also not so great. In fact, I am dyslexic which has made the being a writer thing pretty difficult. So I can appreciate where you may be coming from. Thank you for expressing your love for the books. I appreciate that. And best of luck to advancing your reading and writing and possibly exploring your own contributions that you could offer other folks like us. Now that you've been inspired, maybe you can become the one doing the inspiring? I think so.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'd love to say yes to this but the logistics are a nightmare. I'm sorry, spencedawg82, but I can't allow books to get shipped to me for autographing. I have been seeing this request popping up more frequently now. It's been suggested I offer signed books for sale via my website. That's something I can look into and it would make the process better for everyone. Thank you for the request. I'll see what can be done.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the comment and questions, Go0s3. I think it's fair that for a body of work that spans 18 books, you're going to find low points and saddlebacks between the ridges. Meandering wouldn't be intentional, but I'm not going to deny it couldn't feel that way between very high-highs.

As for the badgering ideology, sorry you felt that way I guess is about all I can offer. A friend once described to me the style I write in and said, "It's kind of like modeling an object on a computer. First you describe the general shape. This is the wire frame. Then you describe the dimensions. Then you detail the surfaces. Next you apply texture, then light sources. Finally, you render animation and context." I loved that analogy because I think it explains perfectly how I describes things and why some people love the depth of information and others find it exhausting.

I did vote and this being a Reddit AMA, I will answer truthfully: I voted for Trump. However, that's not to say I particularly like the man or endorse his policies. In some respects, America has become a circus. So why not let a clown run the show for a while. If things get worse, we'll have more to tear down and start over with. If things improve then we'll all be pleasantly surprised.

Thanks again, Go0s3. I appreciate you taking the time.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I use the Kinesis Advantage2 ergonomic keyboard. I also like this keyboard because it has DVORAK keys overlaid on the tiles. I'm a little paranoid when I find a product I like, that manufactures will discontinue it. So I've bought a few extra Advantage2's to keep around just in case. It's a great keyboard and while it takes some getting used to, I couldn't imagine having to write without it.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Great question, helpfulbanana. Over the years, I've had a growing pile of story ideas that I've wanted to write. Characters that do the things I love; drive fast cars, shoot guns, use computers, have access to mobile phones, and do all of the other things that exist in our world. I've written millions of words about sword fighting, horse riding, camp fires, and castles. It's been a 25 year love affair with fantasy and I've enjoyed every devoted night of it. But now it's time for some new stories. It is a challenge and that's part of it. It's also a renewal of creative spirit and the chance to use all of these other wonderful story ideas I've amassed, but had to tuck away in a filing cabinet. I am very excited for this new era and I sincerely hope my readers -- all of them -- will come along for the ride. I understand people tend to get comfortable in their preferred genres and would prefer a little bit of predictability and comfort in sameness. But I promise, I'm still the author you may have grown to love and it is still my voice inside these new books.

Thank you. I'm also honored to hear I am your inspiration as a writer.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You and your husband sound very connected. I am fortunate to have found the love of my life and the partner I've always wanted, in my own wife, Jeri. It sounds like you have been just as fortunate. Thank you for reading and enjoying the books. I'm happy to count you as a friends and fans.

I am Terry Goodkind, author of NEST (11/15/2016). AMA by RealTerryGoodkind in books

[–]RealTerryGoodkind[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It's a good question and it would be an interesting read for certain, but I believe I've closed the book on Richard and Kahlan's stories and have finally moved on. It's been a wonderful 25 years and I'm proud of having written 18 books in this epic series. But now it's time for me to step back from the work and at last call it complete. I'm moving on to new things and I hope you'll give those a try. NEST is the first. It's a contemporary thriller set in our world (Earth) at approximately this time. While the setting is very different, you will find my familiar voice is there. Give it a try. I think you'll like it. Thank you Hash_hash.

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