At the end of every year, I write a reflection about where I’m at in writing, in life, and in all the messy, magical places where the two overlap.
I’m officially calling 2025 the Year of Dangerous Magic.
Why? Let’s get into it. (If you missed any of these moments, you can click on the links for more info!)
In my writing life, I finished drafting and revising a book for my agent, did quite a bit of IP work, and nearly finished another manuscript. One of my biggest joys of the year was commissioning artwork for the Timely Death trilogy. There’s something indescribably special about seeing characters you’ve lived with for years brought to life. (And seeing you all love it too meant so much!) Did I mention that the Timely Death trilogy was also put on the shelves in Under the Cover, a romance bookstore in Kansas City?! So neat!
I also spent time refining my author brand and learning more about reaching the readers who love romantasy, dark magic, dangerous love–all the themes I adore writing. I took classes in social media and tried new formats (hello, YouTube Shorts!), and attended conferences like the Nebulas, LitUP, OCLS, and Romance GenreCon.
And honestly? Selling books at the Flame and Fantasy Ball with my bookish bestie (who paired her candles with my novels into themed bundles) was my favorite highlight of the year. Pure joy.
In my reading life, I continued serving as a Penguin Random House Employee Ambassador and became a Wattpad/Webtoon influencer, which has been a blast. My TBR pile has exploded with opportunities, and I’m grateful for every single book that shows up at my door.
In my personal life, I took fencing lessons (epee!) through PRH’s wellness program, and loved every minute of family time with my husband and toddler (okay, maybe not potty training). The year also carried some deep grief. I lost my soul cat, Bogart, in January. He was with me for fourteen years and I rescued him on Christmas, so his absence is felt every day, but especially right now… Grief comes in waves, but I’m learning how to carry it with love instead of letting it weigh me down. I know he’d want us to enjoy this season.
As 2026 approaches, I’m hoping for a year of intentionality: more writing, more rest, more time with the people I love. I may dip a toe into self-publishing…or I may take a season to study and recharge. I’m open to possibilities, & excited to see what’s next.
What about you? How was your year, and what are you hoping for in the one ahead?
~SAT
Discover more from Shannon A. Thompson
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
