Rob Howell's Blog, page 13
February 23, 2023
Rob’s Update: Two for Thursday
Greetings all
I was involved in not one, but two releases this week!
Hunting the HartThe big one is Hunting the Hart, by Jon R. Osborne. This is the fifth in his excellent Milesian Accords series where the modern world and the magical world collide.
It’s full of action, mythology, history, and great characters. Just like the other four in the series.
Get Hunting the Hart here: amazon.com/gp/product/1648556477
Also this week, Postcards from Mars came out. This was a fun exercise where Cedar Sanderson and C.V. Walter provided a bunch of authors with small, postcard-like images of characters they’d drawn. They asked the authors to write a 50-word story based on that image.
Yes, 50 words, not 51, I asked.
Writing a full, complete story in 50 words is challenging, and I probably cheated. Mine has a story arc, so it fits, but it’s also a good first chapter.
Anyway, if you want to see some great art and some authors pushing their writing skills, check it out here: amazon.com/dp/B0BW7Y5PP5.
Also, if you want a sneak peak at the image that was my inspiration, join my Patreon at: patreon.com/rhodri2112. This is just another free benefit I provide to thank my subscribers.
I made good progress on Where Now the Rider and some progress on Farewell, My Ugly. This was an odd week, however, as there is a major house project I’m working on that took a great deal of my time. I’m sure I’ll have more to say on that down the road.
So, with that, I’m going to get back to editing and see if I can catch up a bit.
What I’m Listening ToDefinitely a Sabaton kind of week. Currently, I’m listening to the title track of The Art of War, a great album with Sun Tzu quotes weaving through the songs.
Quote of the WeekI’ve been lucky in that I’ve gotten to see quite a few places in my life. One of the remaining bucket list items is the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Today, in 532, Justinian the Great laid its foundation stone and that’s a great reason to have a quote from him.
“Justice is the firm and continuous desire to render to everyone that which is his due.”
– Justinian I
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:
In my name, great works gifted us the stars
Latest Snippet: Chapter 3 of Hunting the Hart
Magic has returned to the world, but so has an ancient foe.
Erin Donnelly, descendant of Cu Chulainn and Champion of the Folk, searches for Nechtan—her lover cursed to live as a stag for a year and a day. Enlisting the aid of allies, Erin maintains a vigil, turning back hunters and predators who might harm Nechtan in the wilds of the magical otherworld.
But when Stangr Iron-skinned escapes his imprisonment in the River of Time, he has one thing on his mind—revenge on Nechtan. Stangr’s thirst for vengeance takes him from the Seelie courts of the otherworld to the windswept Great Plains.
Can Erin find Nechtan before Stangr tracks him down? Erin beat Giwargix the Dragon-Slayer, but can she defeat a jotunn-blooded Viking impervious to blades and bullets?
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 EventsFantaSci, 24-26 March, Durham, NC, fantasci.rocks/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesJon R. Osborne’s Hunting the Hart, fifth in his excellent Milesian Accords series. The modern world and the magical world collide, with magic, technology, and mythology all swirling in a fast-paced story of heroes.
Then we have book 8 in John E. Siers Lunar Free State series, The Never Ever War. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BVZZGMYR.
Your pre-release this week is book 6 from William S. Frisbee’s The Last Marines series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BWHFLXC1.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 346.2
Updated Word Count: 104,561
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
February 16, 2023
Rob’s Update: Living in the Kingdom
Greetings all
Things got loud in my neck of the woods Sunday night. Congratulations to Chiefs Kingdom for winning the Super Bowl, and thank goodness it wasn’t the Eagles.
Hunting the HartI have a few small details and Bonds of Valor will be done. All the proofreading, editing, and arranging is done. Just waiting on a couple of things and it’s out the door.
I also finished my edits of The Eyes of a Doll. That went to some alpha readers this week, so it’s getting closer.
I started on Where Now the Rider this week. I’m about ten percent done with it, so good progress already.
The big news this week is the upcoming release of Jon R. Osborne’s Hunting the Hart, book 5 in his excellent modern fantasy series, The Milesian Accords. This comes out on Tuesday, the 21st. The blurb, by the way, is down below in the New Mythology section.
By the way, subscribers to my Patreon have already gotten the first couple of chapters. Weeks I don’t have riddles will have chapters of upcoming works, and I don’t charge for these snippets. They’re a bonus on top of the fun riddles.
I do have some personal news, because it’s really just so me. I went to the doctor this week because I strained a ligament… in my left pinkie. Yeah, that’s exactly how I want to go on the DL. But here’s the kicker. I strained it how you’d expect, if you know me well enough. Yes, I strained it somehow while asleep.
I’m really something impressive, aren’t I? And with that, time to do some bediting. Hopefully, I don’t have to go to the doctor tomorrow.
What I’m Listening ToI’ve been enjoying Time Team of late, and in this episode, they’re looking for English Civil War artifacts. If you like archaeology, which of course I do, I suggest you watch this show.
Quote of the WeekHappy birthday to Edgar Bergen, and of course, Charlie.Hard work never killed anybody, but why take a chance?
– Edgar Bergen
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 live in the ground but my greatest is high above
Latest Snippet: Chapter 2 of Hunting the Hart, by Jon R. Osborne.
New Mythology Works in ProgressHunting the Hart is the next new release, coming out on February 21st. This is book 5 in the Milesian Accords by Jon R. Osborne, and here is it’s blurb:Magic has returned to the world, but so has an ancient foe.
Erin Donnelly, descendant of Cu Chulainn and Champion of the Folk, searches for Nechtan—her lover cursed to live as a stag for a year and a day. Enlisting the aid of allies, Erin maintains a vigil, turning back hunters and predators who might harm Nechtan in the wilds of the magical otherworld.
But when Stangr Iron-skinned escapes his imprisonment in the River of Time, he has one thing on his mind—revenge on Nechtan. Stangr’s thirst for vengeance takes him from the Seelie courts of the otherworld to the windswept Great Plains.
Can Erin find Nechtan before Stangr tracks him down? Erin beat Giwargix the Dragon-Slayer, but can she defeat a jotunn-blooded Viking impervious to blades and bullets?
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 EventsFantaSci, 24-26 March, Durham, NC, fantasci.rocks/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesThis week we have Apprentice to the Gods, 4th in D.T. Read’s Seventh Shaman series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BV62LJCV.
Your pre-release this week is book 8 in John E. Siers Lunar Free State series, The Never Ever War. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BVZZGMYR.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 342.0
Updated Word Count: 103,679
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
February 9, 2023
Rob’s Update: Painting with Fire
Greetings all
Last week was so epic, this week had to pale in comparison. And it did.
Hunting the HartNot to say it wasn’t productive, just not as epic. And this week, we have a cover. Here’s the cover for Hunting the Hart, book 5 in Jon R. Osborne’s excellent Milesian Accords series.
This one stars Erin, descendant of Cu Chulainn and Champion of the Folk. She’s trying to save her cursed lover before an ancient foe wreaks his revenge. Great stuff.
This comes out on February 21st.
I got another 3rd of The Eyes of a Doll edited. I should have it done next week and on to Where Now the Rider. Once that’s going, I’ll be rolling back into Farewell, My Ugly. I aim to have that draft finished by the end of March.
I also had a number of personal projects to work on this week that have taken some time.
To be honest, though, I’ve moved pretty slowly this week. Don’t know it was the change in the weather or if there was something else, but I’ve had achy, grumbly week. Nothing bad, just slightly off-kilter.
Ah, well, that means I better get back to it. Have a great week everyone.
What I’m Listening ToI have a cluster of performers who sit as 2nd best to Rush. Right now I’m listening to Number of the Beast by Iron Maiden. Part of that is the depth in their lyrics, the hammering power of three guitars, and Steve Harris. However, a big part is Bruce Dickinson. He and Ronnie James Dio are 1 and 1a of metal voices for me.
Quote of the WeekFrank Frazetta would be 95 today, so happy birthday to the most iconic fantasy artist ever. You may not know the titles Death Dealer or the Egyptian Queen, but chances are you’ve seen them and others here and there.
Here’s what he said he wanted to do. I think he got it.
“I want to do something that nobody has done before me. And I want to do it in such a way that nobody will forget me for it.”
– Frank Frazetta
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 (Coming Feb. 13th)
I live in the ground but my greatest is high above
Congrats to David for guessing the riddle from January 23rd. Great job.
Latest Snippet: Chapter 2 of Hunting the Hart, by Jon R. Osborne.
New Mythology Works in ProgressHunting the Hart is the next new release, coming out on February 21st. This is book 5 in the Milesian Accords by Jon R. Osborne, and here is it’s blurb:Magic has returned to the world, but so has an ancient foe.
Erin Donnelly, descendant of Cu Chulainn and Champion of the Folk, searches for Nechtan—her lover cursed to live as a stag for a year and a day. Enlisting the aid of allies, Erin maintains a vigil, turning back hunters and predators who might harm Nechtan in the wilds of the magical otherworld.
But when Stangr Iron-skinned escapes his imprisonment in the River of Time, he has one thing on his mind—revenge on Nechtan. Stangr’s thirst for vengeance takes him from the Seelie courts of the otherworld to the windswept Great Plains.
Can Erin find Nechtan before Stangr tracks him down? Erin beat Giwargix the Dragon-Slayer, but can she defeat a jotunn-blooded Viking impervious to blades and bullets?
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)The Wordbringer (3,082)Upcoming EventsFantaSci, 24-26 March, Durham, NC, fantasci.rocks/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesThis week we have Prince: Peacemaker, book 4 in the Prince of Britannia Series by Fred Hughes. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BTL4NFLC.
Your pre-release this week is another book 4. This time it’s Apprentice to the Gods, 4th in D.T. Read’s Seventh Shaman series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BV62LJCV.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 341.8
Updated Word Count: 60,381
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
February 2, 2023
Rob’s Update: Groundhog’s Day
Greetings all
What a week! It was so busy, I’m going to have to a list.
Approved the cover for Hunting the Hart by Jon R. Osborne (Out February 21st).Approved the cover for Bonds of Valor (Out March 24th).Finished the manuscript for Bonds of Valor and sent to the copyeditor.Did about a third of the new edits for The Eyes of a Doll. Hosted a postrevel.Wrote 2 riddles (and had my first correct guess, way to go David).Read and responded an old slush submission.Wrote about 3000 in a new Firehall Sagas short story.Not too shabby.
I also taught my wife Call of Cthulhu, so she can play a lawyer as a hero.
Next week, Saturday, I’ll get the ARCs out to the Hunting the Hart ARC team. By the end of next week, I’ll be turning my eyes to Where Now the Rider.
I’ve been building new processes after the lessons of 2022, and man, have they been working.
Speaking of which, I’m going to go edit some more. Have a great week.
What I’m Listening ToThe sound of a mechanical keyboard. I’m getting to this update a little late after a long day of work and family stuff.
Quote of the WeekIn 1141, Empress Matilda defeated King Stephen I at Lincoln. This is a good reason to quote from the Cadfael series, and I really don’t even need a reason, as it’s a great series of books. The BBC versions with Derek Jacobi are excellent too.“Whatever the rights or wrongs of their affection, in the teeth of danger and despair love is entitled to speak its mind, and all others should be blind and deaf.”
― Ellis Peters, The Hermit of Eyton Forest
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 (Coming Feb. 13th)
I live in the ground but my greatest is high above
Congrats to David for guessing the riddle from January 23rd. Great job.
Latest Snippet: Chapter 1 of Hunting the Hart, by Jon R. Osborne.
New Mythology Works in ProgressHunting the Hart is the next new release. This is book 5 in the Milesian Accords by Jon R. Osborne, and here is it’s blurb:Magic has returned to the world, but so has an ancient foe.
Erin Donnelly, descendant of Cu Chulainn and Champion of the Folk, searches for Nechtan—her lover cursed to live as a stag for a year and a day. Enlisting the aid of allies, Erin maintains a vigil, turning back hunters and predators who might harm Nechtan in the wilds of the magical otherworld.
But when Stangr Iron-skinned escapes his imprisonment in the River of Time, he has one thing on his mind—revenge on Nechtan. Stangr’s thirst for vengeance takes him from the Seelie courts of the otherworld to the windswept Great Plains.
Can Erin find Nechtan before Stangr tracks him down? Erin beat Giwargix the Dragon-Slayer, but can she defeat a jotunn-blooded Viking impervious to blades and bullets?
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)The Wordbringer (3,082)Upcoming EventsFantaSci, 24-26 March, Durham, NC, fantasci.rocks/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesWe have new 4HU goodness with On a Cloudy Day from Jason Cordova and Kevin Ikenberry. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BT11JHWK.
Your pre-release this week is Prince: Peacemaker, book 4 in the Prince of Britannia Series by Fred Hughes. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BTL4NFLC.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 340.8
Updated Word Count: 59,622
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
January 26, 2023
Rob’s Update: Sweet Memories
Greetings all
WynnifredIt’s been a very productive week here in Robville, where all the women are strong, all the men are good-looking, and all the cats are in control (especially Wynnifred).
Hunting the Hart is almost in the can. ARC Team readers can expect to get copies next week.
This is the fifth in Jon R. Osborne’s excellent Milesian Accords series and follows the adventures of Erin as she tries to save her love from getting hunted and killed. A curse has turned him into a stag, the mightiest in the forest and a prize for any hunter.
Plus, he’s got an ancient foe who’s come back to seek revenge.
The release date on this got pushed up because of convention schedules, so it’s coming out on February 21st! Yes, we know that’s only a month away, but we’ve been juggling art, editing, and all the details and didn’t want to announce a date before we knew it’d be ready.
Hunting the Hart comes out on February 21st. Spread the word thoughout the Dunwold.
I did a bunch of work on Bonds of Valor, too. It’s mostly in the can. One story I worked on came from Sarah Hoyt. All I can say is, wow, that woman can write. It’s one of the best short stories I’ve read in a long time. The only spoiler I’ll say is it’ll blow fans of Shakespeare away.
Here’s a good news/bad news thing. The bad news is that I’ve been wretched at dealing with slush submissions. I’ve routinely lost track of them for far too long.
The good news is I’ve revamped my process for these and the results look good. I at least went through a couple of the most egregious submissions and I’m on the way to catching up.
Still, I’ve owed a number of authors an apology, and I’m making good as best I can. I am sorry.
I made progress on The Eyes of a Doll too. I aim to be done with it in a couple of weeks. Given the juggling of a some deadlines, that’s ambitious, but I’m making progress.
I gave you all a bonus riddle last week that I thought of when I was driving home from MarsCon. Here’s the riddle:
Occidentally, I weave innocence
I’ll give you a few sections to think about it before giving you the answer in the Rob’s Riddles section below.
I also started a new Firehall Sagas short story, one that goes into a particular bit of history I mention in A Lake Most Deep. I’m in a race with a couple of other writers to finish it next week to go into Bonds of Valor.
I had an author have ongoing health issues that prevented them from providing the level of quality they expect, and time just ran out. It’s a shame when this happens, but it’s far more important that authors take care of themselves.
This is probably the most important thing I have to say this week. It’s true for everyone, of course, but if you’re a creator of anything, the most productive thing you can do is keep yourself healthy. No one writes their best stuff when they’ve got more important things to worry about.
With that, I better throw some words on the page.
What I’m Listening ToRight now it’s Lessons by Rush. It’s from side 2 of 2112, and it’s one of those hidden gems you get out of deep tracks. The opening is so smooth and strong.
Quote of the WeekSo let’s have a quote from Lessons.
Sweet memories Flashing very quickly by
Reminding me Giving me a reason why
I know that My goal is more than a thought
I’ll be there When I teach what I’ve been taught
– Rush, Lessons
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 neither handle nor spout, yet I am stout
Latest Snippet: Chapter 2 of Farewell, My Ugly
Bonus Riddle: Occidentally, I weave innocence
As I mentioned to one who commented on this, with a riddle of only 4 words, they all have to matter, except for I.
I used the basic meaning of “western” for occidentally here, not the more common usage of “western countries.”
Weave is here to give me a verb (yay verbs), but I chose it specifically for its letters.
Innocence and virginity are often intertwined in poetry.
Weave has W and V, and the riddle popped into my head while I was driving through West Virginia.
Yes, the part where I mentioned I wrote it on the drive back was also a clue.
So there you go. And yes, my mind is a little twisted and overly intricate. Who knew?
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 FantaSci Short Story Contest open call.
Bloodheart, by Justin DoyleStars and Shadows, by B.A. IronwoodThe Unwanted Legion, by Casey MoopsThe Coward’s Shadow by Fiona GreyCurrent 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)The Wordbringer (1,274)Upcoming EventsFantaSci, 24-26 March, Durham, NC, fantasci.rocks/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesComing out this week is Point Break, book 3 in the Guardian Covenant. This is a joint mil SF project with Chris Kennedy and Kevin Ikenberry, so you know how good it has to be. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BSMLDQ27.
Your pre-release this week is On a Cloudy Day, a new 4HU novel from Jason Cordova and Kevin Ikenberry. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BT11JHWK.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 339.8
Updated Word Count: xxx,xxx
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
January 19, 2023
Rob’s Update: A Dream Within a Dream
Greetings all
I’m back from MarsCon! It was as good a time as one could have with insomnia. I mean, if I’m going to stay up to 5 and 6am, I want to have at least been out reveling, but sadly that wasn’t the case.
The con itself was excellent. I got to hang out with too many great people to name. Probably the best part was going over New Mythology plans with Chris Kennedy. We’ve got a goodly amount coming down the pike. I’ll get into that in a moment.
I was on 6 panels, which is a great load from my perspective. I moderated panels on Food and Drink in SF/F and then one on the other jobs authors have had. Let’s just say this one turned fowl thanks to Kelly Grayson and Mark Wandrey.
I was also on a panel of CKP upcoming stuff. There’s a lot. Just saying.
Then there were panels on Advice for the Late Bloomer, Researching for your Story, Creating Alternate World Histories, and “I Got a Great Idea For a Book.” Good stuff.
Back stuff coming down the pike, let’s talk about Hunting the Hart, the fifth book in Jon R. Osborne’s Milesian Accords. It actually went to the editor today and I’ll have a firm release date next week, but it’ll be out soon.
I did some work on The Eyes of a Doll for the re-edits. By the way, if you want the old versions for nostalgia’s sake, I’m going to pull them down next week, I think.
I got feedback on the new version of A Lake Most Deep and it was very positive. I’ve a couple of things to clear up, but it’s basically ready to go when the time comes.
I’m almost ready to send Bonds of Valor to the editor. That’ll happen next week. Cover reveal will happen in mid to late February. Once again, I’m honored to get to work with such talented authors.
It’s interesting. There are weeks where I think I got almost nothing done but look up and see a bunch of stuff. This was one of those weeks, and I know I didn’t do as much as some because I’m always a bit slow coming back from a trip. Still, I’m quite pleased in retrospect. Now, off to do some more editing.
What I’m Listening ToTai Shan, by Rush. I know a lot of Rush fans get down on this song and it’s often chosen as one of their worst. That may be true, but I really like it.
Quote of the WeekToday’s a great day for birthdays, but in the end, the choice was easy. Happy birthday to Edgar Allen Poe, and here’s one of my favorite poems of his. It is, by the way, without any ravens.
Take this kiss upon the brow!
And, in parting from you now,
Thus much let me avow:
You are not wrong who deem
That my days have been a dream;
Yet if hope has flown away
In a night, or in a day,
In a vision, or in none,
Is it therefore the less gone?
All that we see or seem
Is but a dream within a dream.
I stand amid the roar
Of a surf-tormented shore,
And I hold within my hand
Grains of the golden sand–
How few! yet how they creep
Through my fingers to the deep,
While I weep–while I weep!
O God! can I not grasp
Them with a tighter clasp?
O God! can I not save
One from the pitiless wave?
Is all that we see or seem
But a dream within a dream?
– Edgar Allen Poe, A Dream within a Dream.
Rob’s RiddlesI have a new 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:
In me souls are seen And once were stolen
Latest Snippet: Chapter 2 of Farewell, My Ugly
Plus a bonus riddle! I thought of this one while on the drive back from MarsCon. By the way, it’s just one line total, so here is the whole riddle. I think this one is really easy, but your mileage may vary.
Occidentally, I weave innocence
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 FantaSci Short Story Contest open call.
Bloodheart, by Justin DoyleStars and Shadows, by B.A. IronwoodThe Unwanted Legion, by Casey MoopsThe Coward’s Shadow by Fiona GreyCurrent 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 EventsFantaSci, 24-26 March, Durham, NC, fantasci.rocks/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesThis week we have is book 5 in William S. Frisbee, Jr.’s Last Marines series, Genocide of Mankind. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BS443W6S/.
Your pre-release this week is, Point Break, book 3 in the Guardian Covenant. This is a joint mil SF project with Chris Kennedy and Kevin Ikenberry, so you know how good it has to be. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BSMLDQ27.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 342.0 (I didn’t quite make it. I’d been aiming to stay under 340 with all of the holidays, travel, and events. I’d have made it, I think, if I’d slept better at MarsCon. Still, it’s not as bad as it could have been).
Updated Word Count: 29,234
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
January 12, 2023
Rob’s Update: At MarsCon
Greetings all
I’m at MarsCon, who honored me with naming me an official guest!
First time as official guest, and I hope I live up to their expectations. I know I have a great schedule:
Friday 1-2pm: Creating Alternate World HistoriesFriday 5-6pm: Worldbuilding: Food and Drink (Moderator)Friday 8-9pm: Researching for Your StorySaturday 3-4pm: Finding Your Bliss Later in Life – Advice for the Late BloomerSaturday 5-7pm: CKP The Year AheadSunday 10-11am: How Many Jobs Has That Author Had? (Moderator)Sunday 12-1pm: “I Got A Great Idea For A Book!”Going to be a blast. Thanks to Joel Lyons, Dave Cleric, and Erin Cram for all their help.
This was also my first week publishing a riddle on the Patreon. I’m really excited how this is going to go.
On the 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month, I’ll post a new riddle. On the other Mondays, I’ll post a snippet from a Work in Progress. I’ll only charge for the riddles, by the way. The snippets are free to all subscribers.
Here’s the first line to this week’s riddle:
In me souls are seen And once were stolen
I’ve gotten a bunch of work done on Bonds of Valor this week. The cover names are Jody Lynn Nye, Glen Cook, Todd McCaffrey, Sarah Hoyt, and D.J. Butler. What a great list!
This comes out on the 24th of March at FantaSci.
I also started working on Hunting the Hart. This is book 5 in Jon R. Osborne’s excellent Milesian Accords series. I’ll have a release date for this soon.
And with that, I need to go. I’m at the con hotel and there’s schmoozing to do.
What I’m Listening ToThe History of English podcast. I wish the podcaster wasn’t so repetitive, but it’s a great thing to listen to as you drive 1000 miles.
Quote of the WeekOn January 12th, 1969, the New York Jets shocked the world and changed pro football forever.I’ve got news for you. We’re gonna win the game. I guarantee it.
– Joe Namath
I have a new 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 Current Riddle:
In me souls are seen And once were stolen
Latest Snippet: Chapter 1 of Farewell, My Ugly
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 FantaSci Short Story Contest open call.
Of note, I’m running behind on edits with all the other things going on. These winners will be back before next week.
Bloodheart, by Justin DoyleStars and Shadows, by B.A. IronwoodThe Unwanted Legion, by Casey MoopsThe Coward’s Shadow by Fiona GreyCurrent 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 EventsMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesThe new release this week is Prince: War Leader by Fred Hughes. This is the third is his action-packed Prince of Britannia series. Get it here: amazon.com/gp/product/B0BRMRHX97.
Your pre-release this week is book 5 in William S. Frisbee, Jr.’s Last Marines series, Genocide of Mankind. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BS443W6S/.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 337.6
Updated Word Count: 1,836
Firehall Sagas Archives: 738 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
January 5, 2023
Rob’s Update: Souls are Seen
Greetings all
I hope your new year has started off well. Mine has, in general, started off really well. I’m excited about all the projects I’ve got going on, especially my new Riddle Patreon.
I really enjoy writing riddles, and have for something like 25 years now. I actually wrote one yesterday, which comes out on the 23rd of January, just sort of sitting around.
The structure on this one was fun. I suspect it’ll be one of the easier riddles I write, but there’s nothing wrong with that.
My current plan is to post something every Monday. The 2nd and 4th Mondays will have new riddles, and those will generate revenue. The other Mondays will be snippets of works in progress. I started with the first chapter of Farewell, My Ugly this week, and will go at least the opening six chapters and probably more until I switch to The Feasting of Vengeance. At least, that’s the plan, until you all suggest a better one.
I made huge progress on Bonds of Valor this week. I’ve been a bit behind on this as I’ve been catching up on a bunch of stuff, but my edits are going out. This will come out at FantaSci on March 24th.
Speaking of which, I think it’s time to announce the list of authors, and it’s one of the best lists we’ve had.
You know the winners of the contest already:
Justin DoyleB. A. IronwoodCasey MooresFiona GreyThey’ll be joined by:
Philippa AnastosD.J. ButlerGlen CookSarah HoytTodd McCaffreyJody Lynn NyeJon R. OsborneAaron RosenbergBenjamin Tyler SmithKevin SteversonWhat a list. I’m honored by all these amazing authors. Besides, who doesn’t want more Black Company, Necrolopolis, and Indrajit and Fix stories?
I also spent the week finishing A Lake Most Deep. It goes out tomorrow to a couple of alpha readers. I’ll start on The Eyes of a Doll this weekend.
And with that, it’s off to edit another story. Have a great week.
What I’m Listening ToSaturday is the anniversary of Neil’s death. Rush on repeat for the next few weeks.
Quote of the WeekDeath smiles at us all, all a man can do is smile back.
Marcus AureliusWe had a moment on Monday where death might have smiled on national TV. Damar Hamlin, a player for the Buffalo Bills, suffered cardiac arrest on the field. Great news today as Damar asked “Did we win?” He’s not out of the woods, but credit to all involved (except Roger Goodell, but I don’t have time to get into *that* rant).
The Riddles!I have a new 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:
In me souls are seen And once were stolen
Latest Snippet: Chapter 1 of Farewell, My Ugly
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
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 EventsMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesOut this week is Crucible of the Gods by D.T. Read. This is book 3 in The Seventh Shaman MilSF series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BR6ZC8TB.
Your pre-release this week is Prince: War Leader by Fred Hughes. This is the third is his action-packed Prince of Britannia series. Get it here: amazon.com/gp/product/B0BRMRHX97.
So last week, I screwed up and muddled a couple of titles and authors. I should have said, get Casey Moores’ The Guilted Cage, a new Fallen World novel, here: amazon.com/dp/B0BQRQYL86.
I mixed it up with the latest 4HU novel, To Have and to Hold, by Zane Voss, which you can get here: amazon.com/dp/B0BQ232HPN.
Ah, well.
Oh, and since I’m tossing out links, here’s Pandora’s Box, 2nd in Christopher G. Nuttall’s Heirs of Cataclysm series. It’s here: amazon.com/dp/B0BNPQ61DX.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 334.2
Updated Word Count: 1,213
Firehall Sagas Archives: 740 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
December 29, 2022
Rob’s Update: Happy New Year
Greetings all
It’s been an eventful 2022, I think, for all of us. I hope things went as well as possible for all of you and that 2023 is your best year yet.
Pandora’s BoxSpeaking of best yet, I think the release of Christopher G. Nuttall’s Pandora’s Box was the best release of any book I’ve published so far. It’s been an honor to work with him, and I’m so pleased to be a part of the Heirs of Cataclysm.
Get Pandora’s Box here: amazon.com/dp/B0BNPQ61DX.
With me moving on from both the Eldros Legacy (which you should still read) and the Dudes in Hyperspace (which will hopefully have a show here and there), I find myself with some extra time.
I’m going to fill that time by writing Old English-style riddles. Here’s an example:
I reared my mother after madness sent her to me
Then I moved mountains and made monsters fear me
Time I have carried taming it to my purpose
Against the glacier’s wrath I guard mighty empires
Yet the least hold me captive kept in loneliest thrall
I do not delay when dooms are decided
Health and life I shield holding against harm
Great, gallant, and gracious have I grown
My back is broken but I bear the dreams of all
I carry a magical world so say what I am called
Every couple of weeks, I’ll write another one, as well as provide the answer to the previous one.
How can you get these riddles? Great question! I’ve created a Patreon. Every subscriber will get a riddle on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month, starting on January 9th. Plus, I’ll add snippets and other tidbits of works in progress or whatever seems interesting.
At higher tiers, subscribers will get free books. At the highest tier, they’ll also get an illuminated manuscript of a personalized riddle suitable for framing.
What’s the answer to this riddle? Well, you can find out in two ways. One, you can subscribe. Two, since you subscribe here, I’ll pass on the explanation next week. I appreciate all who’ve been along for this ride too.
Anyway, we’ll see who can guess this one. Oh, yeah, I have some fun things planned for those who guess it before I send out the answer.
Join the Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112.
Firehall SagasI also spent a bunch of this week getting the new website for the Firehall Sagas ready to go! Check it out here: firehallsagas.com. Thanks to Kevin Fritz Fotovich for creating cool new artwork and logos. Also, I should have thanked Kate Gill many years ago for her photos, but she also took a fantastic one of me performing part of Beowulf in Old English at Pennsic.
I was in a firehall performing a saga. It had to be on the website.
I did a bunch of editing the week. All in all, it was one of my most productive weeks in a long time, even though I took Christmas off to spend time with the folks.
Tonight, I’m watching the rest of Dallas against the Titans, then back at it tomorrow.
What I’m Listening ToThe Cowboys are playing on a Thursday. Is there any doubt I’m watching it?
Quote of the Week“If I pass away one day, I am happy because I tried to do my best. My sport allowed me to do so much because it’s the biggest sport in the world.”
– Pele
As you may know, Pele passed away today. Godspeed, O Rei. Your best was truly amazing.
Dudes In HyperspaceFollow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
We give our swan song in a truly dude-tastic show. We’re taking a break, though don’t be surprised we have episodes coming occasionally down the road. Also, I’ve developed a taste for podcasting, so who knows what will happen.
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 FantaSci Short Story Contest open call.
Of note, I’m running behind on edits with all the other things going on. These winners will be back before next week.
Bloodheart, by Justin DoyleStars and Shadows, by B.A. IronwoodThe Unwanted Legion, by Casey MoopsThe Coward’s Shadow by Fiona GreyCurrent Schedule of New Mythology Press
Giveaways
Mid Christmas Fantasystoryoriginapp.com/bundles/56d9786a-59e5-11ed-87e9-e350b59109fa?bundleLinkId=MqPMJ9y
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 EventsMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesThis week we have the 18th book in The Fallen World, The Guilted Cage. Post-apocalyptic mayhem by Casey Moores. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BQRQYL86.
I’m still celebrating the release of Pandora’s Box from Christopher G. Nuttall. This is book 2 in his Heirs of Cataclysm series. You can get that one here: amazon.com/dp/B0BNPQ61DX.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 334.2
Updated Word Count: 428,364
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
December 22, 2022
Rob’s Update: Happy Holidays
Greetings all
Happy holidays! May you and your family have an awesome season.
Pandora’s BoxOur gift this week has been the release of Pandora’s Box. It’s gone very well so far, and I’m so honored to be a part of it. Get it here: mazon.com/gp/product/B0BNPQ61DX.
Haven’t read it or The Chimera Coup, book 1 of the Heirs of Cataclysm yet? They’re post-magical apocalypse swords and sorcery with lots of action, intrigue, and great characters.
Get the series here: amazon.com/dp/B0BFLWPL5N.
I’ve spent this week editing. I’ll be done with A Lake Most Deep next week. I’m mostly done with the initial pass, but I need to do a bediting pass. It’s much, much leaner and stronger.
I also did some editing on the stories for Bonds of Valor. I’m a bit behind this year because of events, but I’ll get half of them done next week.
I also spent a bunch of time cleaning up a number of housekeeping things and doing foundational work. I’m essentially re-booting my entire career in 2023, and I’m fixing as many small issues here and there. I’m excited about all.
One thing I’m going to start pushing is Twitter. I’m @Rhodri2112 there, and over the next couple of years I’m going to transition away from Facebook.
Speaking of excited, I will have a number of exciting items in next week’s update. I’ll have the website ready for the Firehall Sagas and an extra special sooper-sekret thing I’ve been working on.
This last bit is something I’ve wanted to do for a while, and it dovetails nicely with a lesson I learned at 20Books.
Meanwhile, I’m looking forward to seeing the parents for Christmas this weekend. I hope you all have a great time with your family and friends. Be well, everyone.
What I’m Listening ToThe Jets vs. the Jaguars. It’s nights like this, cold and rainy in New York, that I’m glad I didn’t actually play football.
That being said, today had some interesting news. NFL Sunday Ticket will finally move from DirectTV, which was an awful provider, to YouTube TV, which isn’t my preference, but certainly a major step up. I’m curious what that will cost.
Quote of the WeekToday is the anniversary (or at least one possible one, there are questions) of the death of Emperor Vitellius. He was not a terribly notable emperor, ruling only about 8 months.
However, an antiquarian named Robert Bruce Cotton during Elizabethan times collected every ancient manuscript he could. He organized them on bookcases that each had a bust of a Roman Emperor. On the Vitellius bookcase, he put the Nowell Codex on the first shelf (A) and set it as the 15th (xv) manuscript on the shelf.
Hence, the Nowell Codex became known also by its catalog number as Cotton MS Vitellius A XV. It also happens to be one of four major extant collections of Old English poetry.
It includes the only copy of Beowulf to survive, and that was a close-run thing. In 1731, the repository for his library was Ashburnham House, and it had a fire that destroyed a number of manuscripts. The Nowell Codex was damaged, and there’s a burn mark of a poker that makes portions of the last few sections of Beowulf unreadable.
I don’t need much of a reason to celebrate the poem, so here’s my favorite line. And that’s why I’ll never forget Emperor Vitellius.
Deað bið sella
eorla gehwylcum
þonne edwitlif
Death is borne better
By every soul
Than a life of shame
– Beowulf, line 2890b-2891.
Dudes In HyperspaceFollow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
We give our swan song in a truly dude-tastic show. We’re taking a break, though don’t be surprised we have episodes coming occasionally down the road. Also, I’ve developed a taste for podcasting, so who knows what will happen.
Cool Stuff In Eldros LegacyCurrently available:
Khyven the Unkillable by Todd Fahnestock Seeds of Dominion by Quincy J. Allen Deadly Fortune by Aaron Rosenberg The Door Into Winter by Rob Howell Lorelle of the Dark by Todd Fahnestock The Forgotten King by Mark Stallings Embers & Ash by Marie Whittaker The Pain Bearer by Kendra Merritt A Murder of Wolves by Jamie IbsonGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 FantaSci Short Story Contest open call.
Bloodheart, by Justin DoyleStars and Shadows, by B.A. IronwoodThe Unwanted Legion, by Casey MoopsThe Coward’s Shadow by Fiona GreyCurrent Schedule of New Mythology Press
Giveaways
Heart-Pounding Readsbooks.bookfunnel.com/heartpounders/bvfdlw5dha
Space Kindlestoryoriginapp.com/bundles/45b8b2a8-6ac0-11ed-80af-07bcfef2bef3?bundleLinkId=Yrt4Gnk
Happy Holidays SF/F Book Salestoryoriginapp.com/bundles/c3afe8d4-5e40-11ed-be2b-a305efed43d5?bundleLinkId=r04yAUo
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 EventsMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/Planet Comicon, 17-19 March, Kansas City, MO, planetcomicon.com/New ReleasesTo Have and to Hold, by Zane Voss, came out this week. Get more Four Horsemen Universe action here: amazon.com/dp/B0BQ232HPN.
As I mentioned, we have Pandora’s Box from Christopher G. Nuttall. This is book 2 in his Heirs of Cataclysm series. You can get that one here: amazon.com/dp/B0BNPQ61DX.
Your pre-release this week is the 18th book in The Fallen World, The Guilted Cage. Post-apocalyptic mayhem by Casey Moores. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BQRQYL86.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 335.2
Updated Word Count: 427,484
Firehall Archives: 742 entries (I cleaned out a number of Eldros Legacy items, part of the housekeeping I mentioned up above).
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
