Franklin Publishers Announces Sequel to Karen Lockridge's Fantasy Series 'Distant Lands'

Franklin Publishers has announced the upcoming release of Distant Lands: Book 2 – Burden of Truth, the highly anticipated sequel to Karen Lockridge's breakout fantasy novel Distant Lands: Dark Horizon. Scheduled for release before Christmas 2025, this next installment continues the sweeping saga of courage, prophecy, and the eternal struggle between light and shadow that captivated readers in the first book.

Building upon the mythic foundation established in Dark Horizon, Burden of Truth expands the world of Distant Lands with new heroes, resurrected legacies, and an ancient evil awakening once more. The narrative follows the people of Exiled as they stand on the brink of final war, fighting for freedom and the survival of their world. Through Lockridge's vivid storytelling and emotional depth, the novel explores themes of loyalty, love, and the high cost of truth in a fantasy setting that continues to resonate with readers.

Karen Lockridge expressed her excitement about the sequel, stating that readers can expect to encounter new heroes and ancient evil destined to meet in a final battle. The story introduces audiences to the people in Exiled, who are dedicated to sacrificing everything for the freedom of their people. Readers will stand with the men and women fighting for a new world while mourning those lost in the struggle, creating an immersive experience that builds upon the emotional foundation of the first book.

The Distant Lands series represents a significant contribution to the fantasy genre, offering readers a rich, emotionally complex narrative that explores universal themes through a fantastical lens. The release of Burden of Truth marks an important milestone in the trilogy's development, providing fans with the next chapter in a story that began with Dark Horizon. The continuation of this popular series demonstrates the ongoing demand for quality fantasy literature and the importance of serial storytelling in building reader engagement and community.

For the publishing industry, successful sequels like Burden of Truth highlight the value of developing strong series that can maintain reader interest across multiple volumes. The book will be available in both paperback and eBook formats through major online retailers and the Franklin Publishers Bookstore, making it accessible to a wide audience of fantasy enthusiasts. This release timing before the holiday season positions the book as a potential gift item for fantasy readers, potentially boosting seasonal sales in the genre fiction market.