Frequently asked questions
Answers about Dustling, book one of the Age of Serpent series by Eve Matsdotter: release, spice, content warnings, tropes, formats, and how to read Chapter One free.
What is Dustling about?
Dustling is a slow-burn New Adult dystopian romantasy, and book one of the Age of Serpent series. In a realm ravaged by magic, where the elite wield power and the oppressed suffer, a young woman is thrust into a deadly set of ordeals. Her darkest secrets surface, a forbidden desire wakes up, and she has to choose between sparking an uprising and giving in to the forces that threaten her world.
When does Dustling come out?
There is no date yet. I am still in the first draft, and I would rather tell you the truth than a season I cannot keep. The progress tracker on the Dustling page shows exactly where the manuscript is, and the Wickers Word hears first when there is a date.
Is it a standalone or a series?
A series. Dustling is book one of Age of Serpent, and there will be more than one. By now I have probably written two books' worth of worldbuilding alone, and I am still falling for some of the characters.
Who is it for?
Adults. Dustling is New Adult, written for readers aged 18 and over.
How spicy is it?
Open door, possibly explicit. The series is written for adults and it will not fade to black. I have not settled exactly where the first book lands, and I will update this answer when I have.
Are there content warnings?
Yes, and the list will be long. It is a dystopia, so expect class oppression, forced marriage, coercive control and grooming among the themes. The full list will be published here and inside the book before release, so you can decide before you start.
Does it have a happy ending?
Define happy. I am not sure happy endings exist. If it ends, is that happy? What I can tell you is that the love in this story is earned the hard way.
What tropes are in Dustling?
Slow burn, enemies to lovers, forbidden love, forced proximity, hidden identities and hidden powers, found family, an ancient curse, and deadly trials with a twist. There is an emotionally scarred heroine and a grumpy and sunshine pairing too.
What books is it like?
Red Queen meets Fourth Wing, with Handmaid's Tale edges. If you loved Fourth Wing, The Hunger Games, Powerless or Arcane, you are in the right place.
How will Dustling be published?
I will query agents and publishers for a short period first. If that does not lead anywhere, I will publish the first book myself. Either way, the book is coming.
What formats will it come in?
The plan is everything: ebook, physical copies and signed copies. I have always dreamed of an audiobook, and I have the equipment to record and edit one myself, so that may be how it happens. If a publisher takes the book on, formats and shops will be their decision, and I will update this when I know.
Will there be merch?
Yes. Jewellery, art cards and bookmarks are planned, with art that is either mine or by an artist I commission. The first hand-cut blue stone pendants are not for sale; they go out in giveaways to Wickers Word readers. The shop opens later.
Can I read any of it now?
Yes. Chapter One is free when you join the Wickers Word, my newsletter.
How do I become a beta reader or join the street team?
Join the Wickers Word and tick "beta reader" or "street team" when you sign up. The beta form opens closer to the first full draft, and the street team form opens in the run-up to release. Ticking the box means you hear first.