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Well, I think the possibilities are limitless with Central American and South American mythology. I had the opportunity to visit Peru many years back, and it's one of the most magical places I've been to. The burial site of the Lord of Sipán (a Moche ruler) inspired some of the early chapters of my second novel, High Maga. Honestly, you could put your story anywhere in Latin America at almost any point in history, and you'd have oodles to work with. I'm very excited about your ideas! Keep us posted.

Guy Gavriel Kay has done a good job of stepping out of the classic medieval setting. "The Lions of Al Rassan" is set in a world inspired by Al Andalus - technically still medieval Europe, but my impression is that Spain ruled by the Moors is not a typical fantasy setting. His new novel "Under Heaven", set in Tang Dynasty China, is on my TBR list.

Erin Morgenstern's "The Night Circus", my new favorite novel and also a title that is quickly gaining popularity, is set in late 19th century Europe and America. No swords, but lots and lots of magic.

N.K. Jemisin's "Inheritance Trilogy" is set in a world entirely of her own making. Very difficult to pin it down to a particular period or place that is earth-like. I've only read the first book, but I really enjoyed it.

Those are a few examples. For lesser-known titles, I would recommend Terri-Lynne DeFino's FINDER, set in a Mediterranean-like world complete with swords, magic, and dragons.

I haven't read Saladin Ahmed's novel, but it's been on my TBR list for quite a while. I hope to get around to it soon.

Always too much to read and too little time...

Looks like njc's got you covered, Dirk. Good luck!

What is the nature of the mental illness?

A lot of what I write is inspired by true life experiences. To some extent, my experiences, but more often than not, the life stories of other people who are close to me, particularly family members both past and present. Interestingly enough, I often don't recognize these connections until after I've written the story.

For example, many elements of my second novel HIGH MAGA were inspired by stories of the women in my family who survived WWII Germany. I don't know how I didn't see this from the very beginning, but the novel was finished and published before it dawned on me where it all came from.

A short story that I recently posted on tNBW, Lamya of the Sea, was inspired by my great-great grandmother. I never met her, but I've heard stories about her from my father. She immigrated to the States with her sister in the 19th century, and never spoke to any of her family about the life they left behind. Recently my father discovered the single link he had to her past on the internet; an estate where she lived as a girl. Why she and her sister abandoned that life and crossed the Atlantic, we'll never know. It seems remarkable to me, given the time period, and the fact that they were two young women all alone. Something desperate must have driven them forward. The mystery has always intrigued me, so I spun it into a fantasy story and "Lamya of the Sea" was born.

Thanks penang! This is very helpful.

I've had the Wattpad option spinning around in my head for a while. Has anyone used it? What's been your experience?

I think reviews are the single most important factor in convincing a reader to by a book. All kinds of marketing tools can drive the reader to the purchase link, but what convinces them to BUY is the feedback of other readers.

All reviews help, even bad reviews. Most bad reviews, in my experience, are not "this was a bad book", but rather "this book wasn't for me because (fill in the blank)". Oftentimes, what one reader doesn't like (e.g., too dark, too happy, not romantic enough, too weird for my taste, etc.) another reader will drink up. So, ALL reviews help because they tend to capture the kind of reader who is right for your book. AND the more readers you catch that match your target audience, the more likely they are to recommend your book to similar readers (and write a good review of their own!)

Soliciting reviews is extraordinarily frustrating, but it is well worth the effort. Be aware that most of your solicitations will receive no response or be rejected. That's just the way it goes. You can solicit through book blogs, but I've also seen authors do an open call for "beta readers" through their networks on FB and Twitter, and give away free advanced reading ecopies to anyone who promises to provide a fair and honest review. 

If there are print copies of your book available, you can also do a Goodreads Giveaway. Winners of the giveaway will often write a review.

Other excellent sources for reviews: Your critique partners on tNBW or from your other writers groups. And friends!!! Don't be afraid to ask. Many of your friends might not do it, but some will, and every review does make a difference.

Kayleigh & Susan - Happy to see you here!  I remember I got a lot of sound marketing tips out of the old forums, so I hope we can get something similar going here.

Everyone - remember to invite all your connections to join the group. The more the merrier!

Congratulations, Madison! I remember the early drafts of this book. I really enjoyed it! I'm so happy for you and for all the readers about to discover your work. Hugs and sparkles!