Tag Archives: William Alan Webb

Rob’s Update: A Giant Leap

Week 29 of 2023

Greetings all

It was a very productive if scattershot week. First, we had a great first full week from A Hope in Hell, the conclusion to Christopher G. Nuttall’s excellent post-apocalyptic swords and sorcery trilogy. The Heirs of Cataclysm has been a great series to publish and it’s been an honor to work with Chris.

And next week we have the re-release of A Lake Most Deep on Tuesday! I’m beyond the moon excited about this. It’s the first of the Edward mysteries, and Dave Butler said about these: “You’re going to love Edward’s adventures! It’s like Harry Bosch got crossed with Uhtred of Bebbanburgh!”

A Lake Most Deep Wrap No Text 600
A Lake Most Deep Wrap No Text 600

This updated version has this amazing art from J. Caleb Design! Here’s the blank wrap cover to show it all off.

Tomorrow, I’ll reveal the updated map of Achrida by Sean Stallings. It’s brilliant.

I also made good progress this week on Farewell, My Ugly as I get back into the swing of writing consistently. I’m aiming to have it to the editor by the end of August.

I also made good progress on the sooper-sekrit Firehall Sagas project that I’ll talk about in good time. Basically, the Firehall Sagas is about to explode.

Then there’s been setting up the bookstore. I did a ton of work on this too, getting the basic layout in place, including finally locking down my office space. I also started the acquisition of the basic inventory over and above what I had.

I’ve got a ton going on during the next few days. Saturday, I’ll join H.P. Holo. We’ll be talking about A Lake Most Deep and whatever else comes to mind. If you haven’t seen her stuff before, you should check her out. She’s a rock star, as is Jacob, her husband.

H.P. Holo Q&A
H.P. Holo Q&A

And look at the graphic she made for this episode! And here’s the link if you want get updates on Facebook: facebook.com/events/234711226078834.

Then on Monday, I’ll join Jeremy Comeaux on Monday for a pre-release party. Come join us for giveaways and whimsy. Here’s the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kj9v3n1H_Ew for that.

But wait, there’s more! On the 27th, I’m scheduled to join Blasters & Blades again. That’s a great podcast, so if you’re not following them already, check them out here: youtube.com/c/BlastersandBladesPodcast.

That’s going to be interesting, if only because I’ll be Pennsylvania getting ready to go to Pennsic. By the way, if you’re going to Pennsic, I’ll be selling out of Area… errrr… I mean, Booth 51. It’s next to Calontir Trim and on the side of the barn.

Oh, and there’s a fun thing I’m doing with Dave Butler next week. Check out next week’s update for a fun giveaway.

And another oh, I should mention thing. Congrats to Nick Steverson, Melissa Olthoff, William Alan Webb, and Larry Hoy for all winning Imadjinn awards at Imaginarium last weekend. Best novel, best short story, and best anthology. I think covers it all, right? Well deserved.

Wow, so much great stuff going on. I’m glad y’all are here to be a part of the journey.

What I’m Listening To

More of Endeavor while the wife knits next to me. Not a bad way to work.

Quote of the Week

It’s July 20th. Could there be any other quote for the week?

“That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind.”
– Neil Armstrong

Rob’s Riddles

I have a Patreon where I write Old English style riddles and provide snippets of my work. You can find it here: patreon.com/rhodri2112, along with a sample riddle.

First Line of Next Riddle:

Three is a magic number But thrice ten is mine

Latest Snippet: Chapter 1 of A Lake Most Deep

New Mythology Works in Progress

Of note, this now includes our recent releases, so if you’re not sure what we’ve put out lately, you can go here and check.

Rob’s Works in Progress

  • Sowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)
  • Farewell, My Ugly (75,321)
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)

Upcoming Events

New Releases

A Hope in Hell by Christopher G. Nuttall, the conclusion to his Heirs of Cataclysm trilogy, came out on Tuesday! It’s available here: amazon.com/gp/product/B0CBDGZ7D6.

This week we have In Isolation from Purpose, book 3 of C.S. Ferguson’s Transhuman War series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CBSQFMJP.

Speaking of Imadjinn winners Nick Steverson and Melissa Olthoff, this week’s pre-release is Privateers & Pandemonium from the Salvage Title universe. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CC9TGLJS.

And remember, A Lake Most Deep is out on Tuesday!

Tracked Items

Today’s Weight: 354.0

Updated Word Count: 206,306

Firehall Sagas Archives: 742 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe

Rob’s Update: FenCon Rocked

Week 39 of 2022

Greetings all

First, welcome to all the new readers. I was able this week to finally get all my updates from Pennsic and FenCon uploaded. Thanks to all of you who joined up. If you have any questions about what all I’ve got going on here, just send me an email at rob@robhowell.org.

And wow, what an amazing week it’s been. Let’s start with the first new release, The Chimera Coup by Christopher G. Nuttall.

This came out on Tuesday and is a post-apocalyptic swords and sorcery world with technology added. It’s fast-paced, as you’d expect from Chris, and you’re going to love it. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BFLV4TH8.

Yes, I said first new release, as there was also on the 16th The Valkyries Initiative.

I contributed a story in here about a Valkyrie working her job on the mean streets of St. Louis. After 1500 years working for Odin and Freya, she thought she’d seen everything. She was wrong. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BF8NMWXK/.

But wait, there’s more! The Pain Bearer by Kendra Merritt came out on the 13th. This is the 8th of the Eldros Legacy and is probably my favorite novel so far in this series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BDTWRP9W/.

Whew. What a sequence. And that all follows No Game for Knights, which came out on the 6th. It’s available here: baen.com/no-game-for-knights.html.

If you’re keeping track at home, and I am, this stretch of 4 books I contributed to in 14 days is a personal record.

I was also on 3 different podcasts: Cursed Dragon Ship and Inside CKP both had all the Eldros Legacy authors on. Then we did a Dudes in Hyperspace episode. Click on the show names to watch or listen to all these episodes and so much more.

And what did I do to celebrate? I went to FenCon and had a great time with Larry Correia, Chuck Gannon, and Rob Hampson (all Guests of Honor there) along with fellow CKP authors Mark Wandrey, Bill Webb, Kayla Krantz, Sandra Medlock, and Fred Hughes, plus a bunch of other awesome people.

Frankly, it felt like LibertyCon Lite and I need it, having missed LibertyCon itself.

So much has gone on that I even did my September AAR already, and you can get it here: robhowell.org/blog/?p=2856.

This week I’ve been editing Responsibility of the Throne by G. Scott Huggins. This is the sequel to Responsibility of the Crown and is excellent. Dragons, halfdragons, intrigue, and boarding actions.

I also finally got around to doing something I’ve needed to do for some time and that’s create a New Mythology Press Release Schedule. It’s located here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2022/09/22/new-mythology-schedule/. Bookmark that site as I’ll be updating that page.

Heart, Wings, and Fire
Heart, Wings, and Fire

I’ve been nibbling at some story ideas too, though I’ve had little time to write them. September has routinely been my worst month as I’ve come out of Pennsic and all the summer cons, and this year is no different. That has meant October is one of my best, though, and I anticipate it will be.

One last thing, it’s time for a cover reveal from one of my favorite covers so far. Heart, Wings, and Fire by Trisha J. Wooldridge comes out on the October 4th and here’s the cover. This starts her amazing 27 Kingdoms Universe, which you’re gonna love.

Princesses, dragons, and fey, oh, my!

Now I need to let you all go so I can get ready to record the first Dudes In Hyperspace Podmail show. There are so many questions, we’ve had to move that to its own regular episode.

What I’m Listening To

I came back recharged in many ways, and popped right back into setting my playlist to all Rush songs.

Right now it’s Distant Early Warning  off of Grace Under Pressure. I remember distinctly getting this album at about the time I was most interested in the Cold War and the Soviet military, so even if it hadn’t have been Rush, I’d have loved it.

Quote of the Week

Happy birthday to Joan Jett who, let’s just say, I especially admired when I was a teenage boy.

“I saw him dancing there by the record machine
I knew he must have been about seventeen”
I Love Rock’n Roll, as performed by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.

Dudes In Hyperspace

Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/

The latest show includes a preview of the NFL season with David Hayes.

We’re literally recording our Podmail episode in half an hour, so keep an eye out for that tomorrow.

Cool Stuff In Eldros Legacy

Get five free stories and signed up with the Eldros Legacy mailing list! Here There Be Giants is at: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.

A Murder of Wolves by Jamie Ibson comes out on the 11th of October.

Currently available:

Get all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV

New Mythology Works in Progress

2023 FantaSci Short Story Contest open call.

The theme is Bonds of Valor, and you story must include deeds of valor centered around bonds between characters. This could be a romantic relationship, a buddy adventure, oaths to kings, or whatever you can come up with.

Deadline: November 30th, 2022
Word Count: 7-10,000 words
Specifics: Times New Roman, 12 point font, 1.5 line spaced.

Current Schedule of New Mythology Press

Giveaways
Deep Space and Beyond
Deep Space and Beyond

Deep Space and Beyond

storyoriginapp.com/bundles/2ec044a2-320e-11ed-9abc-a39ef24ffb51

Fantasy Kindle Unlimited
Fantasy Kindle Unlimited

Fantasy Kindle Unlimited

storyoriginapp.com/bundles/26e7532c-1235-11ed-a543-d75d019e521b

Escape to a Fantasy World
Escape to a Fantasy World

Escape to a Fantasy World

storyoriginapp.com/bundles/339e025c-2061-11ed-a9c3-879b19996679

Rob’s Works in Progress
  • Sowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)
  • Farewell, My Ugly (23,151)
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • CB (8,418)
  • The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)
Upcoming Events
New Releases

This week we have The Chimera Coup by Christopher G. Nuttall. This is a post-apocalyptic swords and sorcery world with technology added. It’s fast-paced, as you’d expect from Chris, and you’re going to love it. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BFLV4TH8.

The Valkyries Initiative, a new set of stories set in the Hit World universe edited by Marisa Wolf, came out on Friday. I contributed a story in here about a Valkyrie working her job on the mean streets of St. Louis. After 1500 years working for Odin and Freya, she thought she’d seen everything. She was wrong. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BF8NMWXK/.

Your pre-release has the Four Horsemen returning this week with World Enders by Chris Kennedy & Marisa Wolf. This is book 2 of The Phoenix Initiative, and you can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BG19B753.

Tracked Items

Today’s Weight: 331.8 (I’ve been traveling and not eating well. Since coming back, I’ve re-focused on eating better. Time to get back on the downward path.)

Updated Word Count: 157,349

Eldros Legacy Archives: 813 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Founder in the Eldros Legacy series

Rob’s Ramblings: September AAR

Yes, there are still ten days left in September, but so much has gone on that I really need to do an AAR. Plus, October looks like it’ll be just as busy so I don’t know when I’ll get this done, and as I look back a monthly AAR sounds like a pretty good regular post.

No Game for Knights
No Game for Knights

This month started off with a huge bang when No Game For Knights came out on the 6th. This is the noir-themed science fiction and fantasy anthology edited by Larry Correia and Kacey Ezell and follows up Noir Fatale, which was also really fun.

My story in here was entitled The Incomparable Treasure, and it continues the adventures of Edward Aethelredson. If you’ve read The Eyes of a Doll, you want to read this as it follows up some of that story there.

The Pain Bearer
The Pain Bearer

Then, on the 13th, New Mythology released The Pain Bearer, by Kendra Merritt. This is my favorite of the Eldros Legacy novels so far, including my own The Door Into Winter.

On the 16th, The Valkyries Initiative came out. This is an anthology in the Hit World universe edited by Marisa Wolf.

The Hit World is what I call genre gumbo. It has everything: aliens, magic, gods, myths, James Bond-style espionage and assassinations, intrigue, and if it doesn’t have it now, it will someday.

Really fun.

The Valkyries Initiative
The Valkyries Initiative

My story in here is actually in many ways like my story in No Game for Knights. It’s hardboiled and has more than a bit of noir influence. It’s about a valkyrie who’s been doing the bidding of Freya and Odin for some 1500 years now. She’s currently working a job in St. Louis and, spoiler alert, everything goes sideways.

I like putting characters into difficult positions where no choice is good, and this was one of my favorite bad situations so far.

The Chimera Coup
The Chimera Coup

Today, we released The Chimera Coup, which starts a new series called The Heirs of Cataclysm. This is post-apocalyptic, swords and sorcery and tech and is full of action as one would expect from Christopher G. Nuttall.

If you haven’t read Chris’s stuff before, you should. He’s got a bunch out there, including some other fantasy series, plus  a bunch of great mil SF and space opera. We’re honored to have the opportunity to publish this.

Books 2 and 3 in this trilogy will come out soon, and you’re going to love how he wraps this all up.

I’ve also been a part of a number of podcasts. The Eldros Legacy crew did an interview on the 7th on Inside CKP. We did another interview with Cursed Dragon Ships on the 13th. Between those, the Dudes in Hyperspace had their NFL preview show on the 8th.

Click on the show links to check out all three of those.

Whew, that’s 4 books released and 3 podcasts recorded in 2 weeks!

But wait, there’s more! I also just got back from FenCon in the DFW Metroplex.

Larry Correia was the guest of honor, Robert E. Hampson was the science GOH, and Chuck Gannon was the toastmaster. Man, that’s a heck of a list and it drew out a ton of people. I heard, though I haven’t confirmed it, that FenCon drew almost as many people this year as it had done in the previous two pre-pandemic years combined.

Again, I’ve got no confirmation on that, but it sure seemed hopping to me. I was only on two panels, one on Indie Publishing and the CKP Look Ahead, but both were very well attended. Thanks to all who come out.

I also had constant traffic in front of my dealer’s table. I sold more than I expected, which is always nice, but I also got to really talk to a bunch of great people.

The author next to me, Tim Gilliland, was brand new. This was his first con ever, whether to sell or not. He’s in his 60s and finally getting to do what he’s always wanted to do. I predict he’ll do well, given how enthusiastic he was.

This was actually a theme, as I was aware of more people who said this was their first ever convention than I can recall at any other con. Great to see all the new blood.

But truly, it was the old blood that made this con for me. Because of the guests, there was a huge percentage of attendees who I usually see at LibertyCon. Since I missed it this year, I was ecstatic to have sort of a LibertyCon Lite.  Yeah, yeah, I do realize it was probably the wise choice to be at my own wedding instead of the con, but I still missed my friends.

I had a great conversations with old and new friends, which is really the best part of cons. Selling books is great, and I love panels, but it’s the people that matter.

Among friends I had good conversations with were Larry, Rob, Chuck, Sarah Hoyt, Cedar Sanderson, Jonna Hayden, C.V. Walter, Dan Hoyt, Karl Gallagher, Sean CW Korsgaard, Mark Wandrey, Lloyd Behm, Joy Wandrey, William Alan Webb, Sandra Medlock, and Toni Weisskopf. I also met Fred Hughes and Kayla Krantz, two newish authors in the stable, plus a bunch of people like Tim Gilliland, David Birdsall, and Greg Gagnon who I expect to get to talk about when they get their own writing careers going.

What a fun crew.

I came back with a number of new ideas and looking forward to going to the next FenCon.

What’s left in September? Well, to be honest, prepping for October, plus we’ve got our Dudes in Hyperspace podmail episode coming out this week.

On October 4th, we have the release of Trisha J. Wooldridge’s Heart, Wings, and Fire. This is another new series set in her 27 Kingdoms world.

This story is really something new for New Mythology Press, something I’ve been wanting to see. It’s full of action, but less in the way of swords and more in the way of standing up to challenges. It’s also set in an Asian-inspired setting. I love all sorts of myths and legends from across the world and I want to see more of it.

Then on October 11th, we have the 9th Eldros Legacy novel, A Murder of Wolves, from Jamie Ibson. This is set on Daemanon and is a neat take on druids.

There’ll be more from the Dudes in Hyperspace, of course, and maybe more still yet to talk about.

September 2022 rocked, and I can’t wait for October.

 

Rob’s Update: FenCon

Week 38 of 2022

Greetings all

The Pain Bearer
The Pain Bearer

So much going on this week. First, we have the release of Kendra Merritt’s The Pain Bearer. This is the 8th novel in the Eldros Legacy and it’s set on Noksonon.

It is also, thus far, my favorite of the 8 novels we’ve published so far, so get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BDTWRP9W.

Tuesday, I and the other Founders of the Eldros Legacy were on Cursed Dragon Ship‘s 20 Questions podcast. This was a hoot, though sadly lacking in Dwarven Death Metal.

Here’s their YouTube channel: youtube.com/channel/UCfJsig6rWRAJs37viI8lLvw. This is the archive site, but for now, you can find our interview here: twitch.tv/curseddragonship until they put it in that archive.

Also, it’s only a little more than a week since No Game For Knights came out. I’m still basking in this, especially since it’s still ranked 6th on Amazon for SF Anthologies. Thanks to all who’ve bought it so far.

And, of course, there’s FenCon. I’m already in Dallas and raring to go. One reason I got here last night is so I could go to the Baen signing at Half-Price Books. This was a lot of fun and I’m really glad I went.

FenCon starts tomorrow. I’ll mostly be in the vendor’s room selling books. I’m also on a couple of panels, one about indie writing and then the Chris Kennedy Publishing Look Ahead.

Mostly, though, I’m excited because while FenCon isn’t LibertyCon, there’s a solid crew of friends I would have seen at LibertyCon. I’ve missed these folk and I’m excited to see them.

These folk include Cedar Sanderson and Sarah Hoyt, both of whom took time out to help teach me back when I was just getting started. They weren’t the only ones so generous with their time, but taught me some of my most memorable lessons.

Setting up, by the way, is why this is coming out so late in the day. Well, not really setting up. It was the hanging out with some of these friends.

Time well spent.

What I’m Listening To

Right now, I’m in a diner listening to the hum of people chatting.

However, let’s talk about what I listened to on the way down. I love the combination of Larry Correia’s Hard Magic series when narrated by Bronson Pinchot. Yes, that Bronson Pinchot. I’ve said this is my favorite combination of story and narrator for audiobooks.

They now have competition.

I got The Adventures of Cadfael, which is actually several of the novels in an omnibus, so it’d be a good value for one credit on Audible anyway.

However, it’s narrated by Derek Jacobi. Yes, that Derek Jacobi, the one who played Cadfael on the great BBC TV adaptations.

It’s perfect.

Quote of the Week

Happy birthday to Agatha Christie, who’d be a spry 132 today.

She is one of those writers who I’ve drawn on for inspiration. I don’t write her style of mystery, but I couldn’t write my style without her example. Especially with my favorite, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.

“Books are a habit-forming drug.”
– Agatha Christie

Dudes In Hyperspace

Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/

The latest show includes a preview of the NFL season with David Hayes.

Cool Stuff In Eldros Legacy

Get five free stories and signed up with the Eldros Legacy mailing list! Here There Be Giants is at: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.

The Pain Bearer by Kendra Merritt came out on Tuesday. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BDTWRP9W/.

Currently available:

Get all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV

New Mythology Works in Progress

2023 FantaSci Short Story Contest open call.

The theme is Bonds of Valor, and you story must include deeds of valor centered around bonds between characters. This could be a romantic relationship, a buddy adventure, oaths to kings, or whatever you can come up with.

Deadline: November 30th, 2022
Word Count: 7-10,000 words
Specifics: Times New Roman, 12 point font, 1.5 line spaced.

Hey, look, a placeholder: Current Schedule of New Mythology Press

I’m setting up a website to keep track of all the amazing fantasy coming out with New Mythology Press. It’s starting to really stack up, and I’m honored to get to work with all these amazing authors.

Giveaways
Free Fantasy Books
Free Fantasy Books

Free Fantasy Books

storyoriginapp.com/bundles/702f42e0-1b1f-11ed-99f0-0b784204b3b7?bundleLinkId=AWXGev2

Rob’s Works in Progress
  • Sowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)
  • Farewell, My Ugly (23,261)
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • CB (8,418)
  • The Feasting of Vengeance (4,127)
Upcoming Events
New Releases

Out today (since I’m getting this email out after midnight Eastern) is The Valkyries Initiative. This is a great anthology edited by Marisa Wolf set in the Hit World universe created by Bill Webb. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BF8NMWXK/.

And guess what, I’m in here too with one of my favorite stories to write, a hardboiled story about a Valkyrie doing her job in the mean streets of St. Louis. Sometimes, you just can’t please your bosses, even after being on the job for 1500 years.

Of course, we’re only a week since No Game For Knights came out. More hardboiled PI action, this time set in Shijuren. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0B57DS9JD.

We had my personal favorite so far of the 8 Eldros Legacy novels come out this week. That’s The Pain Bearer by Kendra Merritt. Get that one here: amazon.com/dp/B0BDTWRP9W/.

And finally, there’s The Futility of Intent by Mike Wyant, Jr. This is book 4 in his Anisian Convergence and it’s here: amazon.com/dp/B0BDDHLTG2.

Tracked Items

Today’s Weight: 329.2

Updated Word Count: 153,979

Eldros Legacy Archives: 813 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Founder in the Eldros Legacy series

Rob’s Update: A Huge Week

Week 14 of 2022

Greetings all

So much to talk about this week!

First, I had a great time at FantaSci. Here’s the full FantaSci AAR: robhowell.org/blog/?p=2653.

Keen Edge of Valor
Keen Edge of Valor

While there, we released Keen Edge of Valor. Thanks to all who supported the release and participated in its creation. It’s a great anthology and I’m proud of what we’ve done. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B09W91TP24/.

I also got to make two announcements. First, the finalists for the FantaSci Short Story contest were C.M. DeMott, Nathan Balyeat, Jonathan Miller, and Chris Hepler. Chris Hepler, with his story “The Torturer of Camelot,” was this year’s winner. Here’s an interview with our winner: robhowell.org/blog/?p=2645.

Secondly, I announced the theme for next year’s Short Story Contest. 2023 will be Bonds of Valor, and you story must include deeds of valor centered around bonds between characters. This could be a romantic relationship, a buddy adventure, oaths to kings, or whatever you can come up with. Specifics on the submission guidelines are below in the New Mythology section.

Deadly Fortune
Deadly Fortune

And now we’re five days away from our next release, Deadly Fortune, by Aaron Rosenberg. This is the next Eldros Legacy novel. It’s a swashbuckling take of pirates, murder, and intrigue and a lot of fun.

Then there was Tuesday night, where I did a fun interview with Cursed Dragon Ship on Twitch.tv. You can find it here: twitch.tv/curseddragonship. Many thanks to Kelly Colby for hosting me. I had a great time.

Now for the fun vaguebook part. My sweetie went on a trip last night and there might be some cool fun changes to our life coming out of it.

What a week.

What I’m Listening To

The Eagle Against the Sun, a War in the Pacific documentary. I’m in a WW2 mood today for some reason, and it’s been exactly what I wanted.

Quote of the Week

A brilliant quote from Gordie Howe today.

“All hockey players are bilingual. They know English and profanity.”
– Gordie Howe

Dudes In Hyperspace

Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/

The latest show includes a review of Batman and some great podmail questions.

Cool Stuff In Eldros Legacy

Get five free stories and signed up with the Eldros Legacy mailing list! Here There Be Giants is at: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.

Deadly Fortune by Aaron Rosenberg is coming next Tuesday! It’s a fun swashbuckling tale of pirates, murder, and intrigue.

Currently available:

New Mythology Works in Progress

2023 FantaSci Short Story Contest open call.

The theme is Bonds of Valor, and you story must include deeds of valor centered around bonds between characters. This could be a romantic relationship, a buddy adventure, oaths to kings, or whatever you can come up with.

Deadline: November 30th, 2022
Word Count: 7-10,000 words
Specifics: Times New Roman, 12 point font, 1.5 line spaced.

I’m currently working on The Door Into Winter, my next novel.

Rob’s Works in Progress
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • CB (8,418)
Upcoming Events
New Releases

So much going on in CKP at FantaSci. First, let’s go with Titans Rising, which is a book on the business of writing genre fiction in the 21st century. It includes stuff by Chris Kennedy, Kevin J. Anderson, Toni Weisskopf, and a bunch of other big names. You can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B09W8SV9QY.

Then we have Redacted Weapon, a new Four Horsemen Universe novel by Kevin Ikenson and Kevin Steverberry… errr… I mean, Kevin Ikenberry and Kevin Steverson. By the Kevins! That’s it, that’s what we’ll go with. Anyway, it’s another story about the Peacemakers and you can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B09W8LYXNJ.

And finally, there’s Keen Edge of Valor, the third anthology in the Libri Valoris, the Books of Valor. You can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B09W91TP24/.

Tracked Items

Today’s Weight: 326.3

Updated Word Count: 129,772

Eldros Legacy Archives: 813 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Founder in the Eldros Legacy series

Rob’s Update: The Days of High Adventure

Week 8 of 2021

Greetings all

I’m back from an amazing Superstars Seminar. I posted a longer AAR here: robhowell.org/blog/?p=2571, but the TL:DR version is that I had a great time and leveled up.

This has been a productive week following up with a variety of things after the seminar. Lots of emails and instant messages. New plans, such as appearances on other podcasts and many new books. Most importantly, new friends and the amazing energy that brings.

When I’ve had the chance to write, I’ve made great progress in The Door Into Winter. The word count won’t reflect this, as I’m only a little more than 1000 words more than last week, but I’m still excited.

I took Jonathan Maberry’s class on pacing and I’ve been inserting some new techniques in the story. The results look very promising.

One of the main things this has done has forced me to reconsider the arrangement of chunks in the story. I’ve spent a bunch of time moving passages around to make a faster, more coherent narrative. I’m much happier with what I’ve done so far, and it’s already having some productive ripples carrying down the road.

We did another Dudes In Hyperspace podcast this week. We got Kacey Ezell back in time for her to talk about her new release, Skies to Conquer, which will come out tomorrow. I’ll have links for that next week.

We’ve had a great, energetic week on the New Mythology Discord channel. It dawns on me, I might not have mentioned it before, but here’s the invite link: discord.gg/FjdgAShBHU. We’d love to have you join us.

I probably have more to talk about, but I’m still catching up from an amazing Superstars.

What I’m Listening To

The soundtrack of Conan the Barbarian by Basil Poledouris. This is one of my favorite things to listen to when I’m writing fantasy.

Quote of the Week

Andre Norton is one of the authors I grew up reading. I can still remember the moment when Ron Thomas gave me Quag Keep, and of course there was Witch World, Star Soldiers, and so much more. Here’s a quote from her that is true for all of us.

As for courage and will – we cannot measure how much of each lies within us, we can only trust there will be sufficient to carry through trials which may lie ahead.
– Andre Norton
Dudes In Hyperspace

Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/

The latest show includes an interview with Kacey Ezell about her new book Skies to Conquer and so much more.

Cool Stuff In Eldros Legacy

Get five free stories and signed up with the Eldros Legacy mailing list! Here There Be Giants is at: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.

Deadly Fortune by Aaron Rosenberg is coming soon!

Currently available:

New Mythology Works in Progress

We have no current open anthology calls but will have a new one announced at FantaSci.

Keen Edge of Valor goes out to advance readers next week!

Giveaways
Sci-Fi and Fantasy Pulp
Sci-Fi and Fantasy Pulp

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Pulp

books.bookfunnel.com/sffpulpreads/jarc896qy9

Anti-Hero Giveaway
Anti-Hero Giveaway

Anti-Hero Giveaway

storyoriginapp.com/bundles/9b987604-6d96-11ec-bc15-139818e52ee1

Discovering Your Neighbor
Discovering Your Neighbor

And we had so much fun exchanging stories last time, Shane Shepherd and I agreed to do it again. Here’s his story Discovering Your Neighbor.

You can find it here: https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/44be5e1a-5fa0-11ec-a777-4384157e5555.

Rob’s Works in Progress
  • The Door Into Winter (75,934)
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • CB (8,418)
  • VAL (1,052)
Upcoming Events
New Releases

This week we have the conclusion to David Hallquist’s War Angels series, entitled Seraphim. You can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B09S3FCPQ8.

Also, I’m remiss for not posting this link last week, especially since it’s a story I’ve loved for quite some time. My only excuse is I was distracted by Superstars.

In any case, here’s Sharp Steel by William Alan Webb. This is the first story in his Sharp Steel & High Adventure series, and you want to get in on this now, because there’s big things happening here, and maybe even a crossover coming down the road. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B09RVCDW2Y.

Tracked Items

Today’s Weight: 323.6

Updated Word Count: 7,375

Eldros Legacy Archives: 813 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Founder in the Eldros Legacy series

Rob’s Update: Becoming a Superstar

Week 6 of 2021

Greetings all

Monday I head to Colorado Springs to go to my first Superstars Writing Seminar. Going to be a chance for me to level up, I think. The teachers include such names as Jim Butcher, Kevin J. Anderson, Jonathan Maberry, Jody Lynn Nye, and the one, the only, Chris Kennedy.

For those paying attention to the Eldros Legacy, I’m the only one of the Founders, including Mia Kleve, our primary editor, who hasn’t been part of the program there, and I rectify that this year. We’ve got a talented group.

Speaking of talent, we’re getting close to setting a firm release date for Deadly Fortune, the next Eldros Legacy novel, this one by Aaron Rosenberg. This is set in Shijuren and it’s go pirates, treachery, swordfights, and murder. What more could a reader want?

If you haven’t read Aaron, you’re in for a treat. He’s a prolific writer with a ton of shared universe credits to his name, including Stargate, Star Trek, and Warhammer 40K. Yeah, he’s a rock star and we’re ecstatic to have him.

Tonight we record our next Dudes in Hyperspace podcast. This one will focus on our writing process.

By the way, we have some very exciting news about Dudes in Hyperspace. Details on this next podcast, which should be available in the next few days. Thanks to all who listen to us, because without you we don’t get to do this big reveal.

I’ve gotten back into the groove a bit with The Door Into Winter. Getting sick and needing to get both Deadly Fortune and Keen Edge of Valor out the door took me away from writing, but I had a good day yesterday. Since it had been a bit, I went in an edited chunks to remember exactly what I was doing.

I also started a new short story this week for Marisa Wolf. This one is set in Bill Webb’s Hit World series, which is yet another fun shared world from CKP.

And I think it’s time to get back to writing. I have a character to kill…

What I’m Listening To

This week it’s Signals by… you guessed it, Rush! Yeah, I’m still on my Rush kick.

Quote of the Week

Today is the 63rd anniversary of the day the music died, so here’s a lyric from American Pie.

Oh, and there we were all in one place
A generation lost in space
With no time left to start again
So come on, Jack be nimble, Jack be quick
Jack Flash sat on a candlestick
‘Cause fire is the devil’s only friend
– Don McLean, American Pie

Dudes In Hyperspace

Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
https://www.sharkflight.com/dudes/

The latest show includes an interview with Craig Martelle of 20Booksto50K and IASFA.

Cool Stuff In Eldros Legacy

Get five free stories and signed up with the Eldros Legacy mailing list! Here There Be Giants is at: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.

Deadly Fortune by Aaron Rosenberg is coming soon!

Currently available:

New Mythology Works in Progress

We have no current open anthology calls but will have a new one announced at FantaSci.

I’m currently working on Keen Edge of Valor and it’s mostly done. You’re going to love it!

Get it here: storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/bbdf4462-1880-11ec-8eb9-a34519556732

Rob’s Works in Progress
  • The Door Into Winter (74,129)
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • CB (8,418)
  • VAL (571)
Upcoming Events
New Releases

New Hit World anthology: You Pay: We Slay! This is the genre gumbo series from Bill Webb. You can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B09R8VLM58

Tracked Items

Today’s Weight: 317.0

Updated Word Count: 4,426

Eldros Legacy Archives: 813 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Founder in the Eldros Legacy series

Rob’s Update: Speak Softly

Week 49 of 2021

Greetings all

I made a mistake last time because I didn’t double-check something. Shame on me. I said Seeds of Dominion is coming out on the 2nd of January, but it is, in fact, coming out on the 4th of January. My apologies for the confusion, but the good news is that it’s the best thing of Quincy’s I’ve ever read, and he’s got a lot of cool stuff out there.

This was also not my most productive work week, largely in part to Christmas-y stuff, along with pet stuff. I basically lost all weekend and all day today. Pets are totally worth the effort, but man, they can be exhausting.

Still, I’m basically done with the first draft of Fleece Navidad, my freebie story which I’ll be sending out to all of you on my mailing list. I also made progress on Embers & Ash, by Marie Whittaker, which is the third Eldros Legacy book. I also did some foundational work, but still, not as much as I’d hoped. Some weeks are like that.

We also recorded a special Dudes in Hyperspace, finishing the episode tonight. We interviewed Emily Berson, who is a USO rep. That’s quite an honor for me, and they do so much cool stuff for our service members.

Of course, we’ve been enjoying the response to Khyven the Unkillable. It’s done very well, despite Amazon having not one, but now two AWS outages. It’s too hot for them to handle, apparently.

Seeds of Dominion, by Quincy J. Allen, is the next Eldros Legacy book, and it’s basically ready to go and comes out on the 4th of January, as I clarified above. See below for the cover reveal.

I think that’s it for now. Everyone have a great week, and I’ll touch base again next Christmas Eve Eve.

What I’m Listening To

Chiefs at Chargers. It’s a heckuva matchup and I’ve been looking forward to it. I’ve liked the Chargers as sort of a second team since the Dan Fouts/Kellen Winslow/Charlie Joiner/Chuck Muncie days. That was such a fun team to watch.

Quote of the Week

The Great White Fleet began it’s circumnavigation of the world on this day in 1907. That means there’s only quote appropriate for the day.

“Speak softly, and carry a big stick.
– Teddy Roosevelt

Dudes In Hyperspace

Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
https://www.sharkflight.com/dudes/

The latest show includes an interview with Emily Bernson, a member of the USO, though it won’t be live until tomorrow, the 17th.

Cool Stuff In Eldros Legacy

Get five free stories and signed up with the Eldros Legacy mailing list! Here There Be Giants is at: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.

Khyven the Unkillable is out and getting great response from its readers. You can find it here: amazon.co.uk/dp/B09N288DCC.

Seeds of Dominion
Seeds of Dominion

But the big thing this week is the fantastic cover of Seeds of Dominion. Jake Caleb created the art, and you can see just how awesome he is.

New Mythology Works in Progress

We have no current open anthology calls but will have a new one in January.

I’m currently working on getting Embers & Ash and The Keen Edge of Valor.

Rob’s Works in Progress
  • The Door Into Winter (58,990)
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • CB (8,418)
  • Fleece Navidad (7,151)
Upcoming Events
New Releases

OK, OK, I realize it was last week, but I’m still excited about Khyven the Unkillable. You can get it here: amazon.co.uk/dp/B09N288DCC.

Two releases from the boss this week. First, there’s Jurassic Jail from William Alan Webb. He’s such an innovative guy, and he’s in charge of the non-fiction publishing of CKP now because he’s just that sharp. You can find Jurassic Jail here: amazon.com/dp/B09NFN84BP.

And then there’s the first book by Mike Jack Stoumbos with CKP. It’s entitled The Signal Out of Space, and starts the Fine Crew series. You can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B09N8VHGFP.

Tracked Items

Today’s Weight: 332.8

Updated Word Count: 355,326

Eldros Legacy Archives: 802 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Founder in the Eldros Legacy series

Rob’s Update: Tacos, Talons, & Talismans, Oh, My!

Week 38 of 2021

Greetings all

Tuesday! Yes, I mean the next one. October 5th. Talons & Talismans will be released to the public. There’s so much you’re gonna love in this and I can’t wait for you all to get a chance.

Talons and Talisman I
Talons and Talisman I

But what about tacos? Hey, I gave you the book. I suspect we all have our favorite taco place where you can get the tacos of your persuasion, pull out your copy of Talons & Talismans, and you’ll soon be in your happy place.

Speaking of happy places, I have just found out today is International Podcast Day. Happy Another Day of Being Awesome to Ian J. Malone, Kevin Steverson, and our awesome fans on Dudes on Hyperspace. I’ve been so pleased to be a part of this. Thanks for having me!

This was not my most productive week. I don’t often get sick, but Friday and Saturday were complete losses and much of Sunday. Feeling better and I’ve gotten lots done the last few days, but it’s catching up.

The big thing this week for me was to really get into gear with The Door Into Winter. I’m trying something new, and it’s a modicum of plotting. (Don’t fall over dead of shock, Quincy J. Allen). Actually, it’s more like Rich Weyand’s theory of river crossings.

Todd Fahnestock pointed me to the book Save the Cat Writes a Novel. Basically, it lays out 15 beats that all good novels need and this week I built myself a beat sheet for The Door Into Winter.

In one sense, I’m doing this to fix a particular thing. I always struggle getting from 50-75,000 words. Somewhere between there, I have a huge slowdown as I don’t know what to write. This will help.

In another, it’s because I’m getting close to leveling up again. In general, my way of doing things has been to jump in, screw up a lot, learn, get better, find new mistakes to make, get better. Lather, rinse, repeat until I feel like I can actually understand the thing enough for manuals and instruction stuff to be really effective for me.

One could say, it’s part of my transition from journeyman to master. I can’t really understand the stuff until I’m a journeyman but I can’t be a master without understanding the stuff. I’m in that point where I can work on that process with my writing, and it’s exciting.

Also, from a pantser’s perspective, this process is actually surprising useful so far. I’m simply jotting down ideas, and I can already tell nothing on the Beat Sheet is locked down. However, I have already realized how mutable and adjustable it is as I discover how I can make the novel better.

That’s why I’m a pantser, by the way. I always find ways to make a novel better during the writing process that can change my entire story. This allows for that, so I’m giving it a try.

Speaking of which, I’m going to go write!

What I’m Listening To

Happy people at Brewbakers. The music is wretched, but for some reason people seem to be really enjoying their conversations today. Honestly, that’s usually the case here, but for some reason it’s the dominant vibe I’m enjoying here today.

Quote of the Week

In honor of today’s international holiday, I’ve decided to give you a quote from Dudes in Hyperspace.

“Man, I totally screwed that up.”
– Me, in just about every show 🙂

There is, fortunately, a response every time.

“Don’t worry, I can edit that out.”
-Ian J. Malone, which is why my quotes are in the outtakes 🙂

Cool Stuff In Eldros Legacy

Have you downloaded your copy of Here There Be Giants? Five free micro-stories and you get signed up for the Eldros Legacy newsletter. You can find it here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.

New Mythology Works in Progress

Current open anthology calls:

The House Between Worlds, fourth in Jon R. Osborne’s Milesian Accords series, goes out to advance readers this weekend. Email me at rob@chriskennedy.com if you want to be a part of the advance team.

Rob’s Works in Progress

  • The Door Into Winter (7,717)
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • CB (8,418)

Upcoming Events

New Releases

This week we have more great stuff in Charles Gannon’s Terran Republic universe entitled Watch the Skies. This is a braided novel that includes the great Gannon himself, Kacey Ezell, Kevin Ikenberry, and William Alan Webb, which is a heck of a lineup. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09GW3CJM7.

Out this week on audio is an anthology I contributed to, Gates of Hell. It’s another 4HU anthology and my story follows-up with Rick Blaine chasing down those who’ve attacked the Queen Elizabeth’s Own Foresters. You can find it on audio here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B087T7FW9M.

Tracked Items

Today’s Weight: 332.0

Updated Word Count: 283,858

Shijuren Wiki: 797 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Founder in the Eldros Legacy series

Weekly Update Archive

If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org

Rob’s Update: Plugging Away

Week 21 of 2021

Greetings all

It’s been a great week. Lots of stuff getting done, including a number of things I’m really proud of. I look forward to talk about them, but for now, just know I’m excited.

In many ways, that’s this week in a nutshell. Lots of work done, but the kind of foundational work that won’t show up for a bit, but without which, nothing ever gets done. Simply plugging away.

Right now, I’m focused on a number of short story projects. I’ve got several short stories in progress right now. Also, I’ve started going through the stories for Talons & Talismans, and it’s going to be amazing.

In general, things are starting to ramp up with New Mythology Press. I’m excited with the reception that Responsibility of the Crown has gotten. Scott Huggins wrote a great book and I’m honored to be a part of it.

My convention schedule is also starting to pick up. We’ve added a really fun con, FactoryCon, which is essentially Chris Kennedy Publishing’s yearly party. However, it’s expanded into something really cool. It’ll be October 22-24 in Coinjock, NC.

My next novel will be a new Shijuren novel, starting a new series. There’ll be some returning characters you’ll remember and it’s going to be something pretty cool. I get to expand into some of the story ideas that I’ve hidden in the first six novels.

Also, there’s another Dudes in Hyperspace podcast up. You can find it here: https://www.sharkflight.com/dudes/.

However,for now, I better get back to editing.

What I’m Listening To

Peyton’s Places is a truly amazing show. Basically, it’s Peyton Manning talking about football with various people involved in the NFL somehow. It’s incredibly charming and light-hearted. Plus it’s really interesting for someone interested in history.

For example. Did you know no one actually knows where the first Lombardi Trophy actually is right now? Carroll Rosenbloom had it, but it disappeared at some point in the 80s. Probably in California somewhere.

How fascinating is that?

Quote of the Week

Today is Chuck Barris’s birthday. Here’s banging a gong in his honor. He actually gave us a great quote about the challenge of creating stuff. I think every author, artist, musician, and all the rest can identify with this quote.

“If you stick in the business of being creative, you get hurt. And creative disappointment seems so much harder to take than any other kind. But if you’re not prepared to get hurt like that, life can be pretty boring. I think I’m going to keep on going.”

― Chuck Barris

Bonus quote from Peyton Manning in his show that goes out  to Conrad: “You do a lot with your middle finger. You’d be a good Eagles fan.”

New Mythology Works in Progress

I’ll be changing this up a bit. I have started to post on chriskennedypublishing.com/blog. This is where I’ll do all of New Mythology’s announcements going forward.

My plan is to link to these announcements on that blog, as must as anything to make sure this email (which is long already), doesn’t get too long. The current items are two anthology calls.

This gives me space to say things about other projects. Benjamin Tyler Smith is working on a Necrolopolis novel, which will be the first novel, and follows a bunch of great short stories. This is around October.

Then Jon Osborne is getting me another Milesian Accord novel in the fall.

Also coming in the fall will be Released, the third in the Balance of Kerr series by Kevin Steverson.

Stay tuned, more is coming.

Rob’s Works in Progress

  • TINT (9,950)
  • Rick Blaine (8,845)
  • CB (8,418)
  • Cynewulf (8,642)
  • Gato (2,312)

Upcoming Events

New Releases

The first new release is We Shall Rise. This is an anthology in the Black Tide Rising universe from John Ringo originally published by Baen. Why am I mentioning it? Well, Baen does a lot for us, which we appreciate. John Ringo’s been a great guy to deal with at cons. Most of all, though, it’s got a bunch of friends of mine in it. Jamie Ibson, Kacey Ezell, Jason Cordova, just to name a few. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1982125586.

I already talked about Shadows by Bill Webb, a Murphy’s Lawless novel in the Caine Riordan universe. However, it’s worth another plug, so here you go. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B095W2BCJF.

However, I want to also add the Four Horsemen RPG Kickstarter. It’s funded already, so if you back this project, you can be sure you’re going to get product. We’re now working on stretch goals, which is good for all of us. You can find it here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/4hu-savage-worlds/four-horsemen-universe-rpg-savage-worlds-edition.

Today’s Weight: 335.2

Updated Word Count: 157,354

Shijuren Wiki: 725 entries

Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.

Have a great week, everyone.

Rob Howell

Currently Available Works
Shijuren

Nick Patara, PI

  • Silent Knight (Nick Patara, PI, Book 1)
  • Under a Midnight Clear (Nick Patara, PI, Book 2) (Forthcoming)
Four Horsemen Universe
The Phases of Mars
Short Stories

If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org