Arcadia Book Launch

Where fantasy comes to life in the dragon-like Wurms of the Aanda world. On August 8, A.E.M Mueller had a book launch and open mic event at Happy Hands Pottery and Art Studio, where people gathered, enjoyed food, and stepped into a world of imagination and creativity.

Behind the Scenes of the Book Launch

The day began with the Happy Hands team preparing the space, including setting up chairs, arranging food and merchandise tables, and creating an open mic area. Guests were welcomed into an atmosphere of curiosity and excitement, ready to explore Arcadia’s fantastical universe.

The author, A.E.M. Mueller (Alex), has loved writing from a young age and holds a Bachelor’s degree in creative writing and publishing. His previously published works include Across the Line and Love, Blood, and Fangs (2022), as well as The Love Plague (2023). Outside of writing, Alex enjoys baking, hiking, and creating music playlists to inspire his creative flow.

The Making of Arcadia

At the launch, Alex gave the audience a live reading from the first chapter of Arcadia, introducing guests to the richly imagined world of Aanda, filled with vast oceans, forests, and lands, with the looming presence of dragon offspring known as Wurms.

The story follows Avery Warren, a high schooler thrust into Aanda, where his bloodline holds the key to survival and power. Torn between human factions and the remnants of the Wurm empire, Avery must decide if he can rise to the challenge or risk being consumed by forces greater than himself.

Meanwhile, in the last Wurm city, Rilus, an alchemist unexpectedly named heir to the throne, struggles with survival, loyalty, and the future of his people. Together, their intertwined fates shape the balance of two civilizations.

Inside the Story of Arcadia

At the launch, Alex gave the audience a live reading from the first chapter of Arcadia, introducing guests to the richly imagined world of Aanda, filled with vast oceans, forests, and lands, with the looming presence of dragon offspring known as Wurms.

The story follows Avery Warren, a high schooler thrust into Aanda, where his bloodline holds the key to survival and power. Torn between human factions and the remnants of the Wurm empire, Avery must decide if he can rise to the challenge or risk being consumed by forces greater than himself.

Meanwhile, in the last Wurm city, Rilus, an alchemist unexpectedly named heir to the throne, struggles with survival, loyalty, and the future of his people. Together, their intertwined fates shape the balance of two civilizations.

Community and Celebration

After the reading, guests enjoyed refreshments, including baked treats made by the author himself, before moving into the open mic portion of the evening. Local talent filled the room with spoken word, poetry, and live music, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere.

The night closed with a raffle winner receiving a signed copy of Arcadia, followed by a book signing session with Alex. Guests left inspired, feeling their inner child revived through the magic of fantasy storytelling.

Closing Thoughts

Arcadia is written for a Young Adult audience but has themes and adventures that resonate with readers of all ages. With its blend of fantasy, intrigue, and danger, the novel opens the door to a new series called A Light in the Dark.

At Happy Hands Pottery and Art Studio, we’re proud to host events that bring creativity, imagination, and community together. If you’re interested in hosting a book launch, workshop, or creative event, contact us here.

Be sure to check out our workshops and blog posts for more ways to connect with your own creativity.