January 12th, 2026


Reader of the Silver Quill,


I wrote lightly in the second week of January, allowing my mind to rest after a gift of creativity that flowed in thousands of words throughout December. 

I am deeply thankful for that season. 


Last week, I returned to the opening of Chapter Sixteen. It was an interesting experience--I could feel that the weight of the chapter was off. Patience helped me realign what truly mattered. Frustration asked for breaks. I always came back. 


When I began Chapter Seventeen, I hesitated. Was I entering a quieter phase of revision and early-draft uncertainty? Possibly. But is that ever a reason not to write? No—and trusting that instinct paid off.

I trusted my words, and in doing so, I was both taught something and rewarded. 


I allowed Chapter Seventeen to breathe, and in that space, it strengthened. It stands at just over five hundred words, yet its impact feels bright and complete. 


That restraint became its own gift—a short chapter that carried me immediately into the next one, which I’m now watching take shape. 


It’s wonderful to witness things grow when they’re given what they need.



Until the next letter,

D.E. Thorne


Silver Secret-- A glimpse of Meaia awaits on my website, in the form of a chapter. Go where books will one day rest. 


Read past letters below. 


© 2026 D.E. Thorne • Moonlight. Myth. Magic.