Rob Howell's Blog, page 11
June 2, 2023
Rob’s Update: Dude, Where’s My Week?
Greetings all
What a great, productive week! So much so I completely lost a day in there somewhere. Well, actually, I remember yesterday, as I was falling asleep, “Wait, today’s Thursday!”
So I apologize for getting this out a day late, but as I said, I got a lot done.
Shadow, Ash, ProphecyLet’s start with a cover reveal, and let me just say, this is one of my favorite covers I’ve seen so far. It’s the cover for Shadow, Ash, and Prophecy by Trisha J. Wooldridge, which comes out on the 20th.
Isn’t that amazing?
It’s from J. Caleb Designs, one of the best cover artists out there. You’ve seen his work with the Valor anthologies, the Balance of Kerr series, and now this.
Side note: There’s another cover coming next month from him that’s awesome, though I might be biased. But we’ll get to that in due time.
Trisha and I spent a great deal of time putting the final touches on Shadow, Ash, and Prophecy and I’m excited with this story. It’s set in The 27 Kingdoms and is a great follow up to Heart, Wings, and Fire, and focuses on the fey allies and enemies Byria gained in that book.
Trisha did a great job of creating a culture with Asian influences, especially Taiwanese, that still has the alien feel that the fey should have.
But wait, there’s more! I’ve also been working on A Hope in Hell. This is by Christopher G. Nuttall and is the conclusion to his first trilogy in the Heirs of Cataclysm series.
This will come out on July 11th, so it’s coming soon!
On the home front, there’s been a bunch of unpacking and the barest hint of organizing. Getting there. I also spent a day getting a trailer hitch put on the car and then a pretty epic shopping trip across Wichita. Amazing how many steps when you go through Sam’s, Wal-Mart, Aldi’s, and Ollie’s.
A great week indeed!
What I’m Listening ToPandora’s Classic Prog Rock channel has gotten me of late. Rush, Jethro Tull, Yes? Sign me up.
Quote of the WeekI learned today that both Morena Baccarin (1979) and Jewel Staite (1982) were born on the 2nd of July. Any day is a great day for a quote from Firefly, but this seems perfect!
Kaylee: No, it’s shiny! I like to meet new people. They’ve all got stories…
Jayne: Captain, can you stop her from being cheerful please?
Mal: I don’t believe there’s a power in the ‘Verse can stop Kaylee from being cheerful. Sometimes you just want to duct tape her mouth and dump her in the hold for a month.
Kaylee: I love my captain.
– Firefly, Pilot
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.
I got a bonus riddle out last week and I’m back on track.
First Line of Next Riddle:
Born from sand but Built on rock’s strength
Latest Snippet: Chapter 5 of Farewell, My Ugly
Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (73,704)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesYour first release this week is Pirates & Payback from Nick Steverson and Melissa Olthoff. This is the second of their Salvage Treasure trilogy in the Salvage Title universe originally created by the amazing Kevin Steverson. Get your fast space opera action here: amazon.com/dp/B0C6QWXCB6.
Next is C.S. Ferbuson’s The Province of Danger, book 2 in his Transhuman War. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C665BS1P.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 351.0
Updated Word Count: 114,169
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
May 25, 2023
Rob’s Update: Forward, March!
Greetings all
I’m up and operational! Not fully, in the sense of everything arranged, but I’m at the point where I can work then procrasticlean. I’ve an office, and maybe I’ll take a picture or two of it next week
Most importantly, I’ve been working, actually working, instead of simply moving.
I spent much of this week working on Shadow, Ash, and Prophecy, by Trisha J. Wooldridge. This returns to here lush, intricate setting of The 27 Kingdoms.
This comes out on June 20th, if I’m remembering dates correctly. Stay tuned next week for a cover reveal.
I had a great time at Anthony’s Balloon Fest. We had a beautiful day for meeting people, watching a parade, and selling a few books. I expect it’ll be a normal thing for us going forward.
We have a couple small things left at the old house, but they’re so minor, I’ll worry about them over Lilies.
It’s such a relief to finally be settling in. Tonight is my first night having a late worknight in my new office, but right now, it’s time for a beer at the Idle Hour. Probably a Stone Arrogant Bastard, because I clearly need to be more arrogant!
What I’m Listening ToLangt Nord I Trollebotten by Lumsk. This is one of my favorite songs, a combination of intricate Scandinavian folk styles and crunching guitar riffs. I stumbled upon it, and Lumsk, from a Pandora selection. The song was so good I immediately bought the album.
Here’s a YouTube of the song: youtube.com/watch?v=wjtIgTpc2qc.
Quote of the WeekWe’ve had a number of celebrity deaths of late, including the amazing Tina Turner. However, you might have missed the passing of Rick Hoyt. He and his father formed Team Hoyt. The father ran marathons pushing his son Rick, a paraplegic.
Rick said that during these events, around 1000 races, he felt like his disability disappeared. He also said this, and it doesn’t get much more powerful.
“The best that has happened to me in my life has come from handling the worst that’s happened to me in my life.
– Rick Hoyt
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.
Back on track on Monday!
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (73,704)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesThis week’s release is We Dare: Old Age and Treachery, a new MilSF anthology edited by Jamie Ibson. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C5H9HHXT/
Your pre-release this week is C.S. Ferbuson’s The Province of Danger, book 2 in his Transhuman War. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C665BS1P.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 346.8 (Not a typo. Amazing what happens when I’m not driving all the time)
Updated Word Count: 113,461
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
May 18, 2023
Rob’s Update: Overtime
Greetings all
On Wednesday, I made a double trip, meaning I went up to Olathe, filled my car, and came back to Anthony in a day. That’s about 8 hours of driving, plus load time.
It’s notable because that was basically the last time I’ll be at that house after a dozen years.
I’m so glad that we have everything down in Anthony, and that nearly everything is done to make the house sellable. Now all we have to do is unpack and arrange everything.
I started arranging my office today and at some point soon I’ll have my full workspace up and operational. I’ll get back in the normal rhythm of writing and editing on Sunday or Monday.
Man, am I ready for that.
And you know, if I’ve gt a ton of procrasticleaning I’ll need to do to help me take breaks.
This was the final push, so I haven’t even tried to do any real work. Part of that is I’m exhausted. One reason for that fatigue is Two Men and a Truck.
A week ago Wednesday, I was to get another truck from them. I wasn’t entirely pleased with the way they packed the first two trucks, but they certainly worked hard.
The last truck, however, had a crew that didn’t want to do anything. They packed the truck half-full, gave half effort, and in fact only gave me 10 of the 20 hours I paid for. I registered a complaint. The local management gave half attention, and frankly gave me an insulting amount of recompense. I’ll take it, but my advice is never use Two Men and a Truck.
This meant that on Saturday, I was up at 5am. We left from Anthony to Olathe, where we rented a UHaul. Then we spent 5 hours packing it, then drove it back down to Anthony, and unloaded it halfway by 9pm.
Thank goodness we had a couple guys we’ve been paying to help us. We wouldn’t have made it if it hadn’t been for them.
However, we spent about twice on Saturday what Two Men offered us to repay their lack of service, not counting our time. The good news is I got to use my Pennsic Packing Tetris skills.
But if Two Men had done their job, I wouldn’t have had to go to overtime. But we’ve got everything here. Now we have time for me to get back to work.
What I’m Listening ToPlayoff hockey. Better yet, overtime playoff hockey. It’s the most exciting and dramatic of all sports in overtime. Only thing more exciting is a Game 7 overtime playoff hockey gae.
Quote of the WeekWayne Gretzky is one of the commentators during the intermissions, so let’s have a quote from him. It’s relevant to us right now, by the way, because the ethos here is behind our move to Anthony.
You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.
– Wayne Gretzky
Rob’s RiddlesI 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.
I apologize for the hiatus on the move. Back to full speed soon, hopefully next Monday. Thanks for everyone’s patience.
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (73,704)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsAnthony Balloon Fest, 20 May, Anthony, KS, anthonykansas.org/sunflower-balloonfestLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesA new 4HU novel! This one is Companion of Darkness, by Casey Moores. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C4V1Z4LR.
Your pre-release this week is We Dare: Old Age and Treachery, a new MilSF edited by Jamie Ibson. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C5H9HHXT/
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 354.2
Updated Word Count: 112,868
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
May 12, 2023
Rob’s Update: Delays
Greetings all
As you can see, I’m a day late to sending this week’s update. There have been some delays in the moving process and I just didn’t have time yesterday.
Overall, buying the house has been a smooth process, but the move has been awful, thanks in part because of our amount of stuff. However, we have not been helped by our moving company. They basically screwed up to this point and we *still* have a truckload of stuff.
I’m giving them a chance to make it right, so I won’t name them yet, but I’m incredibly pissed off right now.
But there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Even if I have to rent a UHaul on top of all this, it’ll all fit at this point. At some point, very soon, we’ll have everything in Anthony and be settling in. I anticipate a good week of work, real work, next week.
Also, this is one of my favorite weeks of the year. It’s Mother’s Day on Sunday, and my mom’s birthday falls around Mother’s Day every year so it’s a double chance to tell mom how awesome she is.
She is awesome, by the way.
As for work, I’m nibbling away, doing maintenance level stuff. I’ve lost basically a month of production, which, to be honest, was to be expected.
So everything is delayed, but as I tell people, there are reasons and excuses. A move is a reason. Boy, is it a reason.
Time to take advantage of Brewbaker’s and do some editing. Have a great week, everyone.
What I’m Listening ToThe sounds of Brewbaker’s. I’m going to miss this place. It’s been a really productive writing home. If you’re ever near 95th and Renner in Lenexa, KS, you should try it out. Their truffle fries are really good, as is their southwest chopped salad, especially with extra fresh jalapenos and avocado.
I’m eating that right now, in fact.
Quote of the WeekMay 12 is a huge day for birthdays, including not just one great quote machine, but two, Yogi Berra and George Carlin. Also born on the 12th is Katherine Hepburn, Ving Rhames, Burt Bacharach, Florence Nightengale, Emilio Estevez, Tony Hawk, and a host of other fairly big names like Lou Whitaker and Leslie Charteris. Also, who knew Mary Kay had a last name. It’s Ash, by the way.
But I have to give a double-shot since how can I pick between George and Yogi?
“Meow” means “woof” in cat.”
― George Carlin
He hits from both sides of the plate. He’s amphibious.
― Yogi Berra
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.
I apologize for the hiatus on the move. Back to full speed soon, hopefully next Monday. Thanks for everyone’s patience.
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (73,704)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsAnthony Balloon Fest, 20 May, Anthony, KS, anthonykansas.org/sunflower-balloonfestLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesA new 4HU novel! This one is Companion of Darkness, by Casey Moores. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C4V1Z4LR
And there’s a ton of things going on with CKP, so many I can’t really get to them all. You should also subscribe to Chris’s email list *and* get a free story. Go here: chriskennedypublishing.com/newsletter and sign up.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 354.0
Updated Word Count: 112,158
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
May 4, 2023
Rob’s Update: A Man, A Plan
Greetings all
I bet you all are tired of hearing stuff about the move. Good news we now start the last week of getting out of the old house. Yes, it’ll take months, many months, to fully organize the new place, but getting everything down to one house will be a huge victory.
One more week of bouncing up to Olathe or down to Anthony about once a day. That’s 3.5 hours each way, by the way. I’m ready to be done with it.
I’m also ready to really get back to proper work. We’ve been pushing through this move at warp speed, and I’m glad because I’d hate it if it really dragged. I mean, when I look at what we’ve done since April 11th, I have to say, it’s been impressive, especially since neither of us truly believed we’d get the house in Anthony until close actually happened.
We’re ecstatic about the new house and I daresay you’ll get some cool pictures as we get rooms and things organized. I’m hoping to have my main working area arranged by next Thursday and have a full week of work starting then.
I’ve been nibbling at Shadow, Ash, and Prophecy, book 2 of the 27 Kingdoms series by Trisha J. Wooldridge. I’m behind, but making progress. I hope to have that ready to publish at LibertyCon.
Partially, that’s because the art is done and it is awesome.
Anyway, I need to get back to packing. Have a great week everyone.
What I’m Listening ToLa Villa Strangiato by Rush. Seems apt for my life right now. Intricate, amazing, and long.
Quote of the WeekA man, a plan, a canal, Panama.
In 1904, work on the Panama Canal started. I had the great pleasure of transiting the canal in 2016, and much of The Eyes of a Doll was written on that cruise, so here’s a quote by Teddy about the accomplishment.
“A finer body of men has never been gathered by any nation than the men who have done the work of building the Panama Canal; the conditions under which they have lived and have done their work have been better than in any similar work ever undertaken in the tropics; they have all felt an eager pride in their work; and they have made not only America but the whole world their debtors by what they have accomplished.”
– Theodore Roosevelt
Rob’s RiddlesI 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.
I apologize for the hiatus on the move. Back to full speed soon, hopefully next Monday. Thanks for everyone’s patience.
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.
Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (58,812)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsAnthony Balloon Fest, 20 May, Anthony, KS, anthonykansas.org/sunflower-balloonfestLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesThis week we have Hunters and Hijinks, a new Salvage Title novel by Nick Steverson and Melissa Olthoff. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C3KVXYS6.
Also, it’s not a new release, but there’s a sale on The Last Stand, book 1 of the Guardian Covenant by Chris Kennedy and Kevin Ikenberry. Get it here: amazon.com/gp/product/B0BJNW843S. Get it for half off now!
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 352.4
Updated Word Count: 111,491
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
April 27, 2023
Rob’s Update: NFL Draft Night
Greetings all
Things are progressing on the move. We’re starting to settle into the new place a bit, and are making progress getting the house in Olathe ready to sell.
I’ve been puttering with a couple of projects, but it’s been difficult as I’ve spent so much time on the road. I’ve averaged more than one trip between the two houses (about 3.5 hours) per day over the last two weeks. I know I-35, US-400, K-42, and K-2 too darn well.
We moved the cats yesterday. That’s always a thing, but they’re starting to settle in.
Anyway, a short update today. Have a great week.
What I’m Listening ToThe NFL Draft! One of my favorite things all year.
Quote of the WeekSeems like I should have a quote from a football guy, and hey, look, Chuck Knox was born today.
Winning and losing are both very temporary things. Having done one or the other, you move ahead. Gloating over a victory or sulking over a loss is a good way to stand still.
– Chuck Knox
Rob’s RiddlesI 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.
I apologize for the hiatus on the move. Back to full speed soon, hopefully next Monday. Thanks for everyone’s patience.
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.
Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (58,812)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesYour pre-release this week is The Backbone of Surprise, by C.S. Ferguson. This is book one in a new MilSF series called the Transhuman War. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C2XYB421.
Podium has opened up Pandora’s Box, book 2 in Christopher G. Nuttall’s excellent swords and sorcery post-apocalyptic series Heirs of Cataclysm. Pre-order is here: audible.com/pd/Pandoras-Box-Audiobook/B0C2QMZLHF.
Your pre-release this week is Hunters and Hijinks, a new Salvage Title novel by Nick Steverson and Melissa Olthoff. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C3KVXYS6.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 351.0
Updated Word Count: 110,841
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
April 20, 2023
Rob’s Update: Marathon, Part II
Greetings all
I’m beat. Moving is hard, and that’s with movers helping. We still have way too much stuff at the old house.
So I did almost nothing workwise this week. Answered emails. Did some brainless editing prep, not much else.
Fortunately, people around me are kicking it, especially those at Podium.
Last week, we announced the pre-release for Hunting the Hart, book 5 in Jon R. Osbourne’s modern fantasy series The Milesian Accords. Pre-order it here: audible.com/pd/Hunting-the-Hart-Audiobook/B0C24XX31G.
But wait, there’s more! Podium has also opened up Pandora’s Box, book 2 in Christopher G. Nuttall’s excellent swords and sorcery post-apocalyptic series Heirs of Cataclysm. Pre-order is here: audible.com/pd/Pandoras-Box-Audiobook/B0C2QMZLHF.
Stay tuned next week for some special tidbits on these.
There’s more to talk about, but I think I’m going to bed so I can pack some more tomorrow. Where did all this stuff come from?
What I’m Listening ToMy favorite Black Sabbath song, Sign of the Southern Cross.
Quote of the WeekMoving is such a hard trek, even when things go smoothly. Rush’s Marathon has the perfect quote.
It’s a test of ultimate will
The heartbreak climb uphill
– Rush, Marathon
And sometimes it’s the heartbreak climb upstairs with yet another box.
Rob’s RiddlesI 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.
Note: The move has delayed a couple of normal entries in the Patreon. I’ll be resuming on Monday.
First Line of Next Riddle:
I have saved a realm Riding on the waves
Latest Snippet: Chapter 5 of Farewell, My Ugly
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.
Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (72,812)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesWe begin with Mike Jack Stoumbos’ first foray into the 4HU, Defender’s Rise. This book gives you a look at the elSha and opSha, a couple of races that—until now—have been secondary in nature, so it’s not to be missed. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/1648557058.
Your pre-release this week is The Backbone of Surprise, by C.S. Ferguson. This is book one in a new MilSF series called the Transhuman War. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C2XYB421.
Podium has opened up Pandora’s Box, book 2 in Christopher G. Nuttall’s excellent swords and sorcery post-apocalyptic series Heirs of Cataclysm. Pre-order is here: audible.com/pd/Pandoras-Box-Audiobook/B0C2QMZLHF.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 351.0
Updated Word Count: 110,397
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
April 13, 2023
Rob’s Update: On the Move
Greetings all
I promised big news last week on a non-writing project and here it is. Before I get to that, I have another announcement.
Huge congratulations to Sheellah Kennedy for being unremarkable! Well, she’s not, as you know. She’s awesome, but in this case, it means that she’s on top of her health issues. The warning signs noted by the doctor were, in turns out, unremarkable.
Which is wonderful to hear.
Hunting the HartNow onto the big announcement… errr… after another one.
Hunting the Hart, book 5 in Jon R. Osbourne’s modern fantasy series The Milesian Accords, is now available to pre-order for Audible.
Pre-order it here: audible.com/pd/Hunting-the-Hart-Audiobook/B0C24XX31G.
OK, now onto the big announcement, and this time I mean it.
The wife and I are on the move. We closed on a great building in Anthony, KS where we can open up the quilt/craft/yarn/weaving store she’s always wanted and I can have a bookstore.
That means my writing/editing has suffered as I pack frantically. We’ve got the movers coming on Monday, and we want to make sure we have enough stuff packed to make the expense worthwhile.
This just in, we have too many books. And skeins of yarn. And games. And and and.
Normally, we’d take time to pare through stuff and see what we’re willing to part with. However, the new place is so big, we don’t have any space issues and we don’t have time to pay that much attention.
Sooooo… if you wanna come help us pack on Sunday, you’re welcome to volunteer.
I’m late this week on a number of projects. I didn’t get my riddle sent out, which I’m aiming to fix today. I didn’t get much writing or editing done.
However, I’m taking my own advice. I tell my writers that there’s a difference between reasons and excuses. Avoid excuses, even to the point of chastising yourself when you use them.
But reasons? Just accept they exist and power through them. The most important thing when you’re dealing with reasons is to prevent yourself from getting angry with yourself. That leads to a spiral that ruins your productivity for a long time.
I’m puttering with writing and editing when I can, and hopefully this is just a blip. Lots of fun plans for the summer, when everything settles down a bit.
In the meantime, welcome to my madness!
What I’m Listening ToSpeaking of madness, I’m currently listening to Ozzy Osbourne’s No More Tears, which has one of my favorite bass lines by Bob Daisley.
Quote of the WeekOne of the great events in Japanese history happened today in 1612: Miyamoto Musashi defeated Sasaki Kojirō at Funajima island. Since we haven’t had a quote from Musashi in a while, here’s one of many great quotes by him.
Also, it’s relevant to the reasons/excuses thing. So much of writing is keeping your head in a good place. Give what’s in yourself a chance to be awesome.
“There is nothing outside of yourself that can ever enable you to get better, stronger, richer, quicker, or smarter. Everything is within. Everything exists. Seek nothing outside of yourself.”― Miyamoto Musashi, A Book of Five Rings: The Classic Guide to Strategy 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:
I have saved a realm Riding on the waves
Latest Snippet: Chapter 5 of Farewell, My Ugly
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.
Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (72,812)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesThis week we have Children of the Fall, by J.P. Chandler. It’s a new release in the excellent post-apocalyptic Fallen World universe. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C1J99413.
Your pre-release this week is Mike Jack Stoumbos’ first foray into the 4HU, Defender’s Rise. This book gives you a look at the elSha and opSha, a couple of races that—until now—have been secondary in nature, so it’s not to be missed. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/1648557058.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 351.0
Updated Word Count: 109,884
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
April 6, 2023
Rob’s Update: Marathon
Greetings all
I’ve had a major project, a non-writing project, going on this week. I’ll expand on it next week, but while this was a productive week, it wasn’t exactly my best writing week. I got virtually no writing down, but some editing here and there.
As I’ve said, however, this is a reason, not an excuse, so I’m not getting down on myself like I might have done some time ago. See? I can learn. Slowly. With much pain.
One more thought on this. We’ve had a ton of upheaval in our lives the last month or so. It’s all good stuff, including my granddaughter, but it’s a marathon.
Anyway, let’s talk about Bonds of Valor. What a great release week! Thanks to all who helped us get that orange tag. If you want to know why we earned it, get it here and find out for yourself: amazon.com/dp/B0BZ7BFXN9.
For all of April, we have The Chimera Coup, book 1 of the Heirs of Cataclysm by Christopher G. Nuttall at half-off the normal e-book price. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BFLV4TH8.
Also, we’re 10 ratings away from 500, with a 4.5 average. It’s really good, and those who’ve read it agree.
And if you want to hear how good it is, The Chimera Coup is now available on Audible thanks to Podium Audio. Get the audio version here: amazon.com/dp/B0BXBCZZRS.
I would normally talk about a bunch of what’s coming up, but I’ve been go-go-go all day and I’m exhausted. Stay tuned next week for some major announcements.
What I’m Listening ToNow onto the Sapphire Rose. Will finish it tomorrow, I’m sure.
Quote of the WeekHappy birthday to John Ratzenberger. Here’s a quote from Cliff Clavin, who I really, really hope all of you have heard of.
I might have said this quote a time or two when the moment was apt.
“Excessive intake of alcohol, as we know, kills brain cells. But naturally, it attacks the slowest and weakest brain cells first.”
– Cliff Clavin
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:
Oft have we moved East and west, north to south
Latest Snippet: Chapter 5 of Farewell, My Ugly
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (72,812)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesThis week is more Salvage Title awesomeness with Knightfall Under Keros, by Melissa Olthoff. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BZTYDHQM.
Your pre-release this week is Children of the Fall, by J.P. Chandler. It’s a new release in the excellent post-apocalyptic Fallen World universe. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0C1J99413.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 351.0
Updated Word Count: 109,084
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
March 30, 2023
Rob’s Update: Splashdown
Greetings all
What a great week it’s been. Of course, I was at FantaSci, and being among my tribe is always a great thing. This week, has been a little slow, as is often so when splashing down after a long trip, especially on the heels of Planet Comicon.
Bonds of Valor Orange TagAt FantaSci, we released Bonds of Valor into the wild. It’s been a great release. I even have pics to prove it. Look at that lovely orange tag we got earlier in the week.
Also at FantaSci, I had the privilege of announcing the winner of this year’s short story contest. Congrats to Fiona Grey, for her story The Coward’s Shadow. See you next year at FantaSci, Fiona!
I also announced next year’s theme, which is paladins, chivalry, and the oaths that bind them. This does not mean each hero must wear armor, only that they fit the larger class of paladins and chivalry. For example, I contend Malcolm Reynolds is a paladin seeking to regain his faith. Yoda was a paladin. Philip Marlowe, Sam Spade, and Spenser are all knights errant.
For all the details, go here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.
Also, we have a great special to announce. The Chimera Coup, book 1 of Christopher Nuttall’s excellent Heirs of Cataclysm series, is half-off starting on Saturday the 1st throughout all of April. If you haven’t gotten it yet, here’s your chance: amazon.com/dp/B0BFLV4TH8.
And while it’s not a special, let’s not forget Hunting the Hart, book 5 of Jon R. Osborne’s Milesian Accords series. We had a bunch of conversations and panels that touched on this series, which is one of the best modern fantasies I’ve read. Get Hunting the Hart here: amazon.com/gp/product/1648556477.
With that, I’m off to do some editing.
What I’m Listening ToI was listening to The Diamond Throne, book 1 of David Eddings’ Elenium on the trip back from North Carolina. I don’t usually like listening to audiobooks when I’m writing, but I’m now listening to The Ruby Knight and will surely follow up with the The Sapphire Rose.
Side note: I sure hope these come out on e-book someday.
Quote of the WeekYou should all know I’m weird. If not, here’s further proof. In grad school, I was assigned all sorts of medieval philosophy. I actually enjoyed it, even though I’m not smart enough to understand it all.
Among all that, Maimonides was one of my favorites.
Truth does not become more true by virtue of the fact that the entire world agrees with it, nor less so even if the whole world disagrees with it.
– Maimonides
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:
Oft have we moved East and west, north to south
Latest Snippet: Chapter 4 of Farewell, My Ugly
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.
Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (72,812)Rick Blaine (8,845)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsLilies War, June 9-17th, Smithville, MO, lilieswar.orgLibertyCon, June 23-25, Chattanooga, TN, libertycon.orgPennsic War, July 28 – August 13, Slippery Rock, PA, pennsicwar.orgNew ReleasesThen there’s Prince Renegade by Fred Hughes. This is book 5 in his excellent Prince of Britannia series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BZ79PPBN.
And, of course, Bonds of Valor, which you can get here: amazon.com/dp/B0BZ7BFXN9.
Your pre-release this week is more Salvage Title awesomeness with Knightfall Under Keros, by Melissa Olthoff. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BZTYDHQM.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 352.4
Updated Word Count: 108,511
Firehall Sagas Archives: 737 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
