From what I've gathered, the next update is supposed to bring a new, fleshed out location (enemies, art), that's why it's probably taking a while.
Yeah, the dev is adding a new area that's fleshed out, that's why it's taking quite awhile. I remember when the caverns were added, and then artwork, and non-combat encounters were added. The dev most likely wants to not deal with "get it out, then flesh things out" this time, that's why it's taking so long.