Rob Howell's Blog, page 15
October 6, 2022
Rob’s Update: Heart, Wings, and Fire
Greetings all
Heart, Wings, and FireWhat a week! There was the release of Heart, Wings, and Fire by Trisha J. Wooldridge. This is a great story inspired by Asian myths and legends that includes princesses, dragons, and fey, oh, my!
I met Trisha at Superstars and she’s is incredibly impressive. Smart, enthusiastic, and talented. Hard to pass up this combination and I’m incredibly honored to have been able to publish her in New Mythology Press.
By the way, get Heart, Wings, and Fire here: amazon.com/dp/B0BGZ3ST1M.
A Murder of WolvesBut wait, more’s just around the corner! The 9th Eldros Legacy novel comes out this upcoming Tuesday. It’s A Murder of Wolves by Jamie Ibson. It’s got a bit of military fantasy mixed with swords and sorcery and a lot of adventure.
Again, this comes out on Tuesday and it’s great.
By the way, in last week’s poll, the cover for A Murder of Wolves edged out the cover of Heart, Wings, and Fire. I think I like the art on Wolves better, but the title treatment of Heart is amazing, so that pushes it over the top for me.
On my end of things here I had one of those weeks where I was productive but the numbers won’t exactly show it. I’ve had a bunch of words come out on Farewell, My Ugly, but I cut a bunch as well. If you’ve been following me for a while, you know that’s part of my process.
Like I say, it won’t really show up in the running tally below, but this was one of my best weeks in a while, topping 7,000 new words even if about that number went by the wayside.
I’m in the midst of the transition from Act I to Act II and I realized that a bunch of what I had in Act I really doesn’t drive the story, but this new stuff will absolutely push us ahead.
I also took a bit of time off, like really off, this past weekend while the sweetie was off in North Dakota. I told y’all I’d watch football, and I did, watching 6 NFL games and some or all of 8 college games.
I have to admit I’m especially excited about the University of Kansas Jayhawks right now. I don’t ever expect them to win, so going 5-0 thus far is way ahead of expectations.
They’re even hosting College GameDay, a big thing for college football, this weekend. This is ESPN’s Saturday pregame show and they move it around to various campuses to give fans a chance to be a part of the show. It’s quite fun, and this is the first time ever it’s been to Lawrence. Whether they beat TCU this weekend or not, it’s already been a successful season for the Jayhawks.
Rock, chalk, baby!
And with that, I’m going to go write a fight scene. Have a great week everyone.
What I’m Listening ToCurrently, I’m listening to Wolgemut play Chanzonetta Tedesca. Wolgemut is a neat band that uses medieval instruments to play medieval songs but often with a metal edge and enthusiasm. Really fun, fantastic stuff.
Here’s their website: wolgemut.net.
Quote of the WeekHappy birthday to the amazing David Brin!
If you have other things in your life-family, friends, good productive day work-these can interact with your writing and the sum will be all the richer.
– David Brin
Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
The latest show includes a fun interview with Nick Steverson.
Cool Stuff In Eldros LegacyGet 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:
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 MerrittA Murder of Wolves by Jamie IbsonGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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
Let the Adventure Beginmybookcave.com/g/let-the-adventure-begin/?bcsrc=m96pfh
Steampunk for Salestoryoriginapp.com/bundles/c91087f2-2344-11ed-bb71-6bd7460f1496?bundleLinkId=YZWmhWm
Sci-Fi Book Fairstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/653c135c-3e03-11ed-b4c7-53dfb561dab8?bundleLinkId=7uLzvjS
Rob’s Works in ProgressFarewell, My Ugly (23,685)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsMidwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesThis week’s release is Vendetta Protocol by Kevin Ikenberry. It’s actually a re-release of Kevin’s first series and it’s fantastic. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BGN41SY7.
Your pre-release this week is D.T Read’s Running from the Gods. Get it here: amazon.com//dp/B0BHCMKH2L.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 333.2
Updated Word Count: 159,067
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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112September 29, 2022
Rob’s Update: Cover Art Duel
Greetings all
Over the next two weeks we have books coming out that have some of the best cover art I’ve yet seen. They can’t both be my favorite, so I’m struggling which to pick.
You tell me. Which one do you all like better?
Heart, Wings, and Fire
A Murder of WolvesHeart, Wings, and Fire starts a new series, the 27 Kingdoms, and starts it off with a bang. The story includes a princess fighting her way to freedom and find her true past.
The cover art for this was done by J Caleb Designs, who’s done a bunch for us in the past.
A Murder of Wolves is the 9th title in the Eldros Legacy and is by Jamie Ibson. CKP readers know Jamie well, especially from the fun We Dare anthologies he edited. This cover was done by Laercio Messias.
You might recognize his style from the cover of The Chimera Coup, by Christopher G. Nuttall, which came out last week. Because I like vaguebooking, not only has this release gone extremely well, there’s more fun stuff in the works in this universe.
Responsibility of the CrownThis week, I finished my edits on Responsibility of the Throne, which is the sequel to Responsibility to the Crown. G. Scott Huggins is one of the most talented writers out there, and you’re going to love this book.
This weekend is going to be a football weekend for me. My sweetie is off to see her mother and some relatives for a quilting retreat and the house is mine, all mine! I’m watching every football game I can.
Time to go make food that’s far too spicy for my sweetie to like it.
What I’m Listening ToI’m on another of my every so often listen to all the Rush. Currently, it’s Subdivisions, which was one of the most important songs I heard growing up.
Quote of the WeekHappy birthday to Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. May you all have some windmills worth tilting at.
“Look there, Sancho Panza, my friend, and see those thirty or so wild giants, with whom I intend to do battle and kill each and all of them, so with their stolen booty we can begin to enrich ourselves.”
– Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
We answer a bunch of user questions in the latest show.
Cool Stuff In Eldros LegacyGet 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.
Currently 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 MerrittGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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
Amazing Autumn SFFstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/6e4f66d4-1d14-11ed-aa07-6f5d0f6cb458
Stellar Sci-Fistoryoriginapp.com/bundles/e482570c-1ffe-11ed-b1e8-dfa7bbc83a30
Beyond Imaginationbookfunnel.com/beyondimagination/2225733265
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (23,151)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsMidwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesAs mentioned, The Chimera Coup by Christopher G. Nuttall came out a week ago Tuesday. It’s a mix of post-apocalyptic and swords and sorcery. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BFLV4TH8.
The Four Horsemen Universe returns 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.
Your pre-release this week is Vendetta Protocol by Kevin Ikenberry. This is actually a re-release of Kevin’s first series and it’s fantastic. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BGN41SY7.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 330.0
Updated Word Count: 158,132
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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112
September 22, 2022
Rob’s Update: FenCon Rocked
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 FireI’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 ToI 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 WeekHappy 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.
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 LegacyGet 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:
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 MerrittGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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 Beyondstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/2ec044a2-320e-11ed-9abc-a39ef24ffb51
Fantasy Kindle Unlimitedstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/26e7532c-1235-11ed-a543-d75d019e521b
Escape to a Fantasy Worldstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/339e025c-2061-11ed-a9c3-879b19996679
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (23,151)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsMidwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesThis 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 ItemsToday’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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112September 20, 2022
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 KnightsThis 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 BearerThen, 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 InitiativeMy 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 CoupToday, 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.
September 15, 2022
Rob’s Update: FenCon
Greetings all
The Pain BearerSo 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 ToRight 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 WeekHappy 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
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 LegacyGet 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:
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 MerrittGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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 Booksstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/702f42e0-1b1f-11ed-99f0-0b784204b3b7?bundleLinkId=AWXGev2
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (23,261)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (4,127)Upcoming EventsFenCon, 16-18 September, Irving, TX, fencon.org/Midwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesOut 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 ItemsToday’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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112September 8, 2022
Rob’s Update: God Rest the Queen
Greetings all
I had a number of things to talk about this week, but as I’m sure all of you have heard, Queen Elizabeth II has passed away.
It is, of course, no tragedy. The death of anyone who lives until they’re 96 and is as spry and active as she was up to the end is rarely, if ever, a tragedy.
But she was a pillar of stability in a world that needs such. Something like 85% of every person living today has never experienced a world without her on the throne until today.
She served in World War II as a mechanic. From everything I read, it was a task she enjoyed, not just performed dutifully. It’s hard to imagine a royal of any type enjoying that sort of work these days, but she was something special.
For many reasons, she always reminded me of my mom’s mom. Elizabeth was younger than my grandmother, but not by that much. More importantly, my grandmother had that same look, that same feel, that same background in some ways.
My grandmother grew up as the daughter of a wealthy British-Canadian family. She was trained to be the same kind of a woman as the queen. She was always proper, always elegant, always exquisite.
And I think that’s one of the things I’ll remember most about both women. They were classy *and* strong.
I am really glad at this moment that I named my mercenary unit in the Four Horsemen Universe the Queen Elizabeth’s Own.
Farewell and Godspeed
What I’m Listening ToThe Yew Tree from the Battlefield Band.
It’s a neat song, but what’s relevant today is that the yew tree in the song exists. I’d be shocked if Queen Elizabeth never went to it.
Quote of the WeekIf you’ve never done so, go take a look at the list of quotes from Queen Elizabeth II. She was quite a sensible woman, as you can see with this one.
Let us not take ourselves too seriously. None of us has a monopoly on wisdom.
– Queen Elizabeth II
Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
The latest show includes David Hayes and a breakdown of the upcoming NFL season.
Cool Stuff In Eldros LegacyGet 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 comes out on Tuesday!
Currently 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 WhittakerGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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 finishing The Chimera Coup by Christopher Nuttall which will come out on the 27th of September. I’m also doing the final touches of Heart, Wings, and Fire from Trisha Wooldridge, which comes out the following week on October 4th.
Giveaways
Autumn Sci-Fi Freebiesstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/5173b380-1382-11ed-bb97-175aa3183269?bundleLinkId=MHhAWLC
SFF Mega Promosffbookbonanza.com/free-books-sep-2022/
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (23,151)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (4,127)Upcoming EventsFenCon, 16-18 September, Irving, TX, fencon.org/Midwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesWant magic? We got that with book two in Kayla Krantz’s The Witch’s Ambition series, The Elemental Coven. It came out on the 6th. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BCXYC4JC/.
No Game For Knights, an anthology of noir in speculative fantasy settings, also came out on the 6th. Kacey Ezell and Larry Correia, the editors, have both appeared in New Mythology anthologies, but Chris Kennedy, Dave Butler, Scott Huggins, and myself also appear in this. Get it here: www.amazon.com/dp/B0B57DS9JD.
This week’s early release for my mailing list readers is The Futility of Intent by Mike Wyant, Jr. This is the 4th book in his Anisian Convergence series, and you can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BDDHLTG2.
Our last release for this week is The Ghosts of Xicotepec by James Tarr. This is the 3rd book in his Echoes of Pangaea series and you can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BCHX1XKR.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 327.8
Updated Word Count: 152,981
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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112September 1, 2022
Rob’s Update: September is Here!
Greetings all
No Game For KnightsI am so excited for September this year because it’s going to be huge for me.
First, coming out in only 5 days is No Game For Knights. It’s available in pre-order here: www.amazon.com/dp/B0B57DS9JD.
I am so pleased to be a part of this anthology. It is, of course, an honor to be in something with so many big names like Correia, Hamilton, Buettner, et. al., but for me it’s more than that.
I love noir, especially the hard-boiled detective versions. I love the intricate plots, the vivid language, the multi-dimensional characters, and a setting that is as much a character as it is a place. Raymond Chandler’s writing is almost poetry, and I heartily suggest people get audio versions to listen to his rhythm and cadence.
It’s the genre I lean into, whether I’m writing fantasy, pure mystery, SF, or whatever.
The Valkyries InitiativeSo that brings me to my next awesomeness for September. On September 16th, The Valkyries Initiative comes out. This is an anthology set in the Hit World created by William Alan Webb. The anthology is edited by Marisa Wolf, who wanted to add more powerful women characters to that universe, and also create a whole separate thread in that universe.
Let’s just say, Marisa weaves a tangled web, which will make even more sense when you read the anthology.
Anyway, I leaned into noir with my story here, which is sort of a hard-boiled PI version of a Norse Valkyrie just trying to do her job in modern St. Louis and finding it’s not so easy as she thought. The Norns have woven a fate for Vigdis that she has to discover, else they will be wroth with her.
At least Vigdis gets to drink all the Schlafly Oatmeal Stout she wants.
And that brings us to the next reason I’m excited about September. That weekend, the 16th through the 18th, I’ll be at FenCon in the DFW Metroplex. This is a con I’ve been looking forward to going to for a while, especially since I’ll see a number of friends I haven’t in a long while.
This includes William Alan Webb, and we’ll be talking up The Valkyries Initiative quite a bit. Plus Larry Correia will be there and I’m sure we’ll be talking up No Game for Knights.
But wait, there’s more!
September will have not one, but 2 releases with New Mythology Press. First, we’ll have The Pain Bearer, by Kendra Merritt on the 13th. This is the 8th in the Eldros Legacy.
Then, on the 27th, we start with a new series from Chris Nuttall. The first book is entitled The Chimera Coup, and it’s a blend of post-apocalyptic with some Harry Potter in a swords and sorcery story with a host of action and adventure. It’s great stuff.
Basically, I have something coming out each week in September (plus the first two weeks of October, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves).
Man, I’m excited. Let’s do this!
What I’m Listening ToPellonpekko by Korpiklaani.
What by who?
Korpiklaani is one of my favorite folk metal bands, in their case, it’s Finnish folk music that inspires them. Pellonpekko is an instrumental that’s one my “Must Play Again Every Time” list.
Pellonpekko is a Finnish god, and here’s a version of the song on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=fCY5b36U9t8. It’s the kind of song that crosses a lot of genres, so even if folk metal isn’t normally your thing, you might still like this one.
Quote of the Week“Aspen 30, I show you at one thousand nine hundred and forty-two knots, across the ground.”
– Brian Shul
On this day, the SR-71 set the record for flying from New York to London in the time of one hour, 54 minutes and 56.4 seconds. Today’s quote is from a different SR-71 moment.
If you haven’t heard this story yet, watch this video. It’s hilarious. youtube.com/watch?v=8AyHH9G9et0.
Dudes In HyperspaceFollow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
The latest show includes a fun discussion of the upcoming college football season with Joe Deleone.
Cool Stuff In Eldros LegacyGet 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 comes out on the 13th.
This is the 8th in the Eldros Legacy and is set in Noksonon, the continent of light and shadow. I have to add, this might be favorite EL novel so far, and that even includes my own The Door Into Winter .Currently 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 WhittakerGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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.
YA Sci Fi and Fantasymybookcave.com/g/future-and-fantastical-ya-sci-fi-and-fantasy/?bcsrc=m96pfh
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (5,108)Farewell, My Ugly (23,151)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsFenCon, 16-18 September, Irving, TX, fencon.org/Midwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesThis week we have Darkness Rising by William S. Frisbee, Jr. This is the 2nd in his Gods of War series. Side note: Chris has 6 of these in hand and will be releasing them about every 5-6 weeks. That means if you jump in now, you won’t have to wait long, so get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BBQ5J3R9.
Our special early release for this week is The Ghosts of Xicotepec by James Tarr. This is the 3rd book in his Echoes of Pangaea series and you can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BCHX1XKR.
And new in audio is Action, by Nick Steverson. It’s part of the Salvage Title universe and is narrated by Michael LeBlanc. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BBQ47LFH.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 327.2
Updated Word Count: 152,140
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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112August 25, 2022
Rob’s Update: So Many New Myths
Greetings all
I haven’t mentioned this enough, but Kayla Krantz’s 2nd in her The Witch’s Ambition series comes out on the 6th of September.
Don’t remember the 1st in that series? I don’t blame you, I did an even worse job of mentioning that here, so let’s do that again. It’s The Council, and you can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0B855VDQ5.
Been a great week, mostly of editing.
I finished Heart, Wings, & Fire by Trisha J. Wooldridge this week. This comes out October 4th, and you’re going to be enthralled with her take on dragons. This starts and entirely new series called the 27 Kingdoms.
I met Trisha, by the way, at Superstars in February. Fitting, because I think she’s going to be a star.
I mostly finished with A Murder of Wolves by Jamie Ibson. This is a new novel set in Daemanon, the continents of demons, and is his take on druids and the Kari’Ma, a canine-type race of humanoids.
By the way, A Murder of Wolves has been moved up in the schedule to October 11th and Dark and Secret Paths has been moved back a month to November 8th. This was done to balance the releases from each continent better.
I’m looking forward to fall, and I have to say I’m pumped. Yes, we’re going to keep kicking out great stuff in the Eldros Legacy. But we already added one new series from Kayla Krantz, with two more new ones soon.
Christopher G. Nuttall, who many of already know and love is starting a great new series called The Heirs of Cataclysm. This is sort of a mix between post-apocalyptic/high fantasy/steampunk with a lot of swords and sorcery. The first book is The Chimera Coup and comes out on the 27th of September.
Then there’s the one I mentioned a bit above from Trisha. This is a little different in that it’s got a lot of romance-style tropes to go along with coming-of-age and includes fae, dragons, and some bad guys you’re gonna love rooting against.
And that’s not all. There’s more coming because I keep getting sent awesome stuff.
It’s a good time to catch this train, because it’s gathering speed.
What I’m Listening ToWhirling Toward Shambalah. I can almost guarantee none of you have heard of the band Anubis Spire. I don’t even know if they are still together anymore but they had a couple of albums in the 1990s and I stumbled on them. I especially enjoyed the album Old Lions in a World of Snarling Sheep.
They are a prog rock band with a bunch of fascinating influences including, in this one, Middle Eastern. There’s a compilation album you can download for $5 (or more if you wish) at: anubisspire.com/
Quote of the WeekSince I’m on to odd music groups I listen to, since it’s the 210th anniversary of the Canadians burning the White House, and since a bunch of Canadians brought me Headstock IPA (possibly my favorite beer) to Pennsic, here’s something from the Arrogant Worms.
Oh, come back, proud Canadians
To before you had TV,
No hockey night in Canada,
There was no CBC (Oh, my God!).
In 1812, Madison was mad,
He was the president, you know
He thought he’d tell the British where they ought to go
He thought he’d invade Canada,
He thought that he was tough
Instead we went to Washington….
And burned down all his stuff!
– Arrogant Worms, The War of 1812
Quote of the Week Item of Note: So last week I quoted Genghis Khan. Ironically, it is this week that I saw they might have actually found his tomb: manifeste.ro/en/archaeologists-unearth-tomb-of-genghis-khan.
Dudes In HyperspaceFollow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
The latest show includes a fun discussion of the upcoming college football season with Joe Deleone.
Cool Stuff In Eldros LegacyGet 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 comes out on the 13th.
This is the 8th in the Eldros Legacy and is set in Noksonon, the continent of light and shadow.I have to add, this might be favorite EL novel so far, and that even includes my own The Door Into Winter .Currently 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 WhittakerGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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.
It must also be a fantasy story. Any type is welcome, urban, epic, high, western, gothic, whatever, it just have to have magic. Finally, it cannot have been published anywhere else before.
I’m currently working on A Murder of Wolves, Jamie Ibson’s 1st novel in the Eldros Legacy. I also finished my edits for Trisha Wooldridge’s Heart, Wing, & Fire, which is the first book in The 27 Kingdoms series.
Giveaways
Page-Turning Suspense Novelsstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/36916e82-07fb-11ed-83c4-87fc4360d92e?bundleLinkId=oKguu1s
Searching for your next favorite story?Searching for your next favorite story?
books.bookfunnel.com/sffmegapromo-aug2022/ogzggumiio
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (23,151)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsFenCon, 16-18 September, Irving, TX, fencon.org/Midwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesKevin Ikenberry’s Sleeper Protocol is one of his earliest series, republished now with CKP. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0B9WGHFV2/.
The special early release this week is Darkness Rising by William S. Frisbee, Jr. This is the 2nd in his Gods of War series. Side note: Chris has 6 of these in hand and will be releasing them about every 5-6 weeks. That means if you jump in now, you won’t have to wait long, so get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0BBQ5J3R9.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 328.2
Updated Word Count: 151,004
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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112August 18, 2022
Rob’s Update: Sharpening the Saw
Greetings all
We talked on our recording of Dudes in Hyperspace tonight of a concept Larry and Steve on The Writer’s Dojo call “sharpening the saw.” (Side note: that’s a great podcast for writers wanting to learn the craft). Sharpening the saw is taking a break so that your mind, body, and soul can recharge. I’ve phrased this as a reason, not an excuse.
Anyway, that’s what this week is for me. I learned some time ago that Pennsic, especially the last few days, tear down, and drive home, are hard on me. I have, in the past, thought I could just come home and start right back up on work like normal, but that’s simply not possible.
So this week I’ve done little except recover, recharge, and reorganize. I kept up with the stuff that has to be done on a timely basis, but I’ve written almost nothing since last Thursday.
Embers & AshThat’s perfectly fine since I’m using that time to get myself ready to go next week. Losing a week to recharge is much more preferable to digging yourself into a depression cycle fed by fatigue, imposter syndrome, and all the other things writers do themselves. I’ve lost about a month that way, and I bitterly regret it because I should have known.
Still, there was the release of Embers & Ash, by Marie Whittaker, the 7th novel in the Eldros Legacy. It’s a great coming of age story of princess fighting to keep her birthright against the Never-Aging Man.
This is especially fun for me as it opens up the last of the 5 continents. Now you can see all the fun differences in each.
Daemanon: The theme centers around demons, abominations, and other creatures.Drakanon: The theme centers around dragons.Noksonon: The theme centers around light, dark, and shadow.Pyranon: The theme centers around fire and volcanoes.Shijuren: The theme centers around legends and myths.
No Game for KnightsAlso, there’s been major progress on the details of The Chimera Coup by Christopher G. Nuttall. It’s a great honor to have him join New Mythology, and you’re going to love his new series, The Heirs of Cataclysm.
I came home to an awesome surprise, my author copies of No Game for Knights, my first Baen Books credit. It’s an anthology edited by Kacey Ezell and Larry Correia of speculative fiction combined with noir, and I contributed a new Edward story.
This anthology comes out on September 16th, and we recorded an episode of the Baen Free Radio Hour on Monday with most of the authors. It’s a heck of a lineup as you can see from the cover, and I’m blown away to get to on Team And More here along with Chris Kennedy and Scott Huggins. Keep an eye on the Baen site for when that episode airs, it was a lot of fun with some amazing people.
Speaking of Scott, I’ve been editing Responsibility of the Throne, the sequel to his Responsibility of the Crown. I loved the first, but this one’s even better.
Also, we recorded not one, but two episodes of the Dudes In Hyperspace. We had the awesome pleasure to have Kevin J. Anderson in for an interview, and that’s already live. I’m literally typing out this week’s email after recording another show, this one with Joe Deleone talking about the upcoming college football season.
Grill/GriddleFinally, I was able to finally get my birthday present from my mom, a grill/griddle combo. I got the floor model (at a nice discount), so that’s why there’s some rust on the griddle itself. However, that’s an easy fix, far easier than assembling it.
I can now make eggs the way I learned at Jimmie’s Diner way back when without fighting a damn small pan. Breakfast is going to be awesome this weekend.
And with that, I’m going to spend some time with the sweetie. We’ve had some time together, of course, but there’s been lots of catching up to do after being apart for three weeks.
Have a great week.
What I’m Listening ToI put Rush on random again. We had KJA on for the Dudes as I mentioned, and obviously I had great fun listening about his friendship with Neil.
Right now, it’s Peaceable Kingdom from Vapor Trails.
Quote of the WeekIn 1227, Genghis Khan died. You all know the quote from Conan which includes “lamentations of their women.” That’s simply one translation of a Genghis Khan saying.
He had a number of other sayings, some of which are actually good words of wisdom. This is one of my favorites.
“An action committed in anger is an action doomed to failure.”― Genghis KhanDudes In Hyperspace
Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
We have two shows this week! First, an interview with Kevin J. Anderson which is already available. This was brilliant, by the way.
Second, we recorded another show today. This will go live in a couple of days. It’s a great preview of college football season.
Cool Stuff In Eldros LegacyGet five free stories and signed up with the Eldros Legacy mailing list! Here There Be Giants is at: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.
Currently 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 WhittakerGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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.
It must also be a fantasy story. Any type is welcome, urban, epic, high, western, gothic, whatever, it just have to have magic. Finally, it cannot have been published anywhere else before.
I’m currently working on The Chimera Coup by Christopher G. Nuttall, which comes out in September. This starts a new series, The Heirs of Cataclysm, and it’s full of action and energy.
Giveaways
Grand Opening Ceremonybooks.bookfunnel.com/grandopeningceremony/va7kpc698l
Fantasy Reads Giveawaysstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/3fce69fe-1026-11ed-a6d4-537dc99dfd30?bundleLinkId=e2MVWhn
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (23,151)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsFenCon, 16-18 September, Irving, TX, fencon.org/Midwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesLots going on this week!
First, Embers & Ash from Marie Whittaker. This is book 7 in the Eldros Legacy and is a coming of age story where a princes fights for her birthright against the Never-Aging Man. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0B9HZNMZ8.
Next is a much-anticipated Four Horsemen Universe novel, The Lyon’s Pride by Chris Kennedy and Marisa Wolf. Get the real story behind the Lyon and Lyoness here: amazon.com/dp/B0B96JZB1B.
By the way, this novel starts a new 4HU subseries, The Phoenix Initiative. Phoenix is important here, as this novel is designed to be a new starting point in the 4HU. The 4HU is certainly a big hunk to bite into, and this gives a way to get into it from the middle, so to speak.
Also, I’m going to start announcing the upcoming CKP Friday release as a special to readers of this email. Kevin Ikenberry’s Sleeper Protocol release date is actually tomorrow, but you can get it early here: amazon.com/dp/B0B9WGHFV2/.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 328.6 (I’m steadily falling though, as I often gain weight on the drive home)
Updated Word Count: 150,156
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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112August 11, 2022
Rob’s Update: Recovering from Madness
Greetings all
The second Wednesday at Pennsic includes Midnight Madness. Basically, this means we’re open until midnight, most merchants have some sort of specials, and a bunch of people plan fun things to do to turn it into a bit of a swirling, shopping festival.
It’s a blast.
It’s also exhausting, especially the day after. We did well last night, but neither I nor the potter who’s selling stuff out of my booth are very energetic.
This has been a week of a lot of work. I finished the editing of The Chimera Coup, the first book in a new series by Christopher G. Nuttall. The series is entitled The Heirs of Cataclysm and if you’ve read Nuttall before, you know it’ll be full of action and great challenges for the characters to overcome.
You’re gonna love it.
Embers & AshOf course, Tuesday is the release of Embers & Ash by Marie Whittaker. This will unlock all 5 continents of Eldros.
I wrote when I could, which wasn’t as often as I expected because we’ve had so many sales. I did get words in here and there, but seriously, it’s been a great war for sales. Still, I got about 5k written across several projects.
I have also been editing Responsibility of the Throne, the sequel to G. Scott Huggins’ excellent Responsibility of the Crown. This comes out in November. There have been a few other things that got finished I will announce in the upcoming weeks.
I also got confirmations of two new events, so check the listing of where I’ll be for where I’ll be.
It may seem surprising, but Pennsic is perhaps my most productive two weeks of the year, and this year was even better.
What I’m Listening ToBagpipes in the distance and the occasional cannon shot to signify a battle’s beginning and ending. (No, it’s not fired at the actual battle)
Quote of the WeekToday is the anniversary of the Battle of Maldon in 991. I actually wrote about this battle in Trouble in the Wind. It’s a fairly famous battle because of the poem written about it, which describes the Viking raiding fleet, a battle of the causeway, and a decision by the leader of the English, Byrhtnoth, Ealdorman of East Anglia.
The most famous part comes after Byrhtnoth’s death, where his warriors stand up and declare they’ll fulfill their oath and die at his side.
In the SCA, one of my favorite songs concerns this battle. It’s written by Rosalind Jehanne and here’s perhaps my favorite passage from it. Note how well she follows the Anglo-Saxon alliterative poetic style and still uses the rhyme and arrangement of modern songs. Combining two such disparate genres is incredibly difficult.
“Death is our doom But let us die with honor
All that lives after Is what the bards do say
Fight to be worthy Of fame in the future
Let them remember The deeds we do today”
– Rosalind Jehanne, Battle of Maldon
Follow the Dudes In Hyperspace here:
bleav.com/shows/the-dudes-in-hyperspace-podcast/
The latest show includes a delicious conversation about BBQ with Jim Nettles.
Also, since I’ve been at Pennsic and couldn’t record, we skipped a couple of weeks. We’re going to make that up next week.
Cool Stuff In Eldros LegacyGet five free stories and signed up with the Eldros Legacy mailing list! Here There Be Giants is at: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qabsr57lq3+.
Embers & Ash by Marie Whittaker is coming on August 16th!
Currently 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 StallingsGet all the Eldros Legacy novels at: amazon.com/dp/B09Z9WVKYV
New Mythology Works in Progress2023 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.
It must also be a fantasy story. Any type is welcome, urban, epic, high, western, gothic, whatever, it just have to have magic. Finally, it cannot have been published anywhere else before.
I’m currently working on The Pain Bearer by Kendra Merritt, book 7 in the Eldros Legacy.
Giveaways
Another Thrilling SF Monthstoryoriginapp.com/bundles/d48f3046-0987-11ed-91a2-0f6e3530d7f8?bundleLinkId=TMrHiHc
Aliens! And Other SF GiveawaysAliens! And Other SF Giveaways
storyoriginapp.com/bundles/f625f616-0ab0-11ed-bac6-73393f5281a3?bundleLinkId=HPDAQ9B
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)Farewell, My Ugly (23,151)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,310)Upcoming EventsPennsic, 29 July – 14 August, Cooper’s Lake Campground, PA, pennsicwar.org/FenCon, 16-18 September, Irving, TX, fencon.org/Midwest Game Fest, 1-4 December, Independence, MO, midwestgamefest.org/kansascityMarsCon, 13-15 January, Virginia Beach, VA, marscon.net/wp/New ReleasesTwo new releases this week. First, in the the Fallen World comes Cause and Effect by Brisco Woods. It’s the 17th book in this great post-apocalyptic series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0B8JCXDV3.
Next is a book I’m criminally behind in talking about. This is Kayla Krantz’s The Council. It’s book one in a new fantasy series called The Witch’s Ambition. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0B855VDQ5.
I’m also remiss in not mentioning that No Game for Knights is available for pre-release on Amazon here: amazon.com/dp/B0B57DS9JD. It’s a great honor to be a part of this.
Tracked ItemsToday’s Weight: 323.0
Updated Word Count: 148,778
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 HowellFounder in the Eldros Legacy series
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: robhowell.orgBlog: robhowell.org/blogEldros Legacy: eldroslegacy.com/Eldros Legacy Archives:www.eldroslegacy.com/archive/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: twitter.com/Rhodri2112

