L. Neil ThrussellSixteen years ago, Neil woke from a dream that would change his life—and, in many ways, mine as well.
That dream introduced him to two unforgettable characters: Master Akio and Graham Alexander Connelly.
At the time, Neil believed he was writing a single novel. Instead, that dream became A Warrior’s Heart, followed by Perseverance and Convocation.
When Neil completed Convocation in 2015, he genuinely believed the journey had come to an end.
Apparently, Master Akio had other plans.
After eight years of silence, the characters returned to Neil in July 2023 with one unmistakable message:
“We’re not done.”
Today, I am incredibly proud and excited to announce that Neil’s long-awaited new novel, A Warrior’s Heart: The Promise, will officially be released on:
August 18, 2026
This is not simply another novel.
It is the continuation of a journey that began sixteen years ago—a story filled with courage, forgiveness, friendship, family, purpose, and the quiet wisdom that can change a life one step at a time.
I have had the privilege of watching Neil carry these characters in his heart for years. I have seen the excitement when the words flowed, the frustration when they did not, and the determination that kept bringing him back to the story.
I have also seen how deeply this series has touched its readers.
To everyone who has read the books, sent Neil an email, shared a message of encouragement, or offered one of those gentle—and sometimes not-so-gentle—reminders asking, “When is the next book coming?” thank you.
Your support has meant more to him than you may ever know.
This book exists because Neil’s readers never stopped believing there was another chapter waiting to be told.
And now, the time has finally come to return to Inspiration Island.
A Sneak Peek…
Nothing, and I mean nothing, in my forty-three years of life had prepared me for that moment.
I, Graham Alexander Connelly, Master of a sword school, student of a dead mystic, survivor of my own former stupidity, was utterly undone by seven pounds of wrinkled, red-faced, squinting perfection.
My son.
My beautiful, tiny, helpless son.
For a moment, I could do nothing but stare at him.
My heart flooded with love so fast, and so hard it almost hurt.
And this is only the beginning.
Over the coming weeks, Neil will be sharing behind-the-scenes stories, character reflections, excerpts, and a few surprises as we count down to launch day.
Thank you for continuing to walk this path with him.
Whether you have been part of the journey since the very first book or are only now discovering A Warrior’s Heart, I hope The Promise reminds you that the greatest journeys are rarely about reaching a destination.
They are about who we become along the way.
Please join me in celebrating Neil and welcoming readers back to Inspiration Island on August 18, 2026.
With love and pride,
Tina Thrussell
