Rob Howell's Blog, page 22
August 19, 2021
Rob’s Update: Ye Jacobites By Name
Greetings all
The lineup for the two Talons & Talismans anthologies is here! You can find the full list for both of them here: https://chriskennedypublishing.com/2021/08/16/talons-talismans-lineups/.
As you can see, it’s a great pair of lineups and I’m honored to be a part of it. I’ve spent the past week editing and all the stories of the first anthology will be sent out tonight. I’ve also made progress in the second anthology. By next update, I hope to have all the stories edited and back to their authors, if not in the final document.
The covers for these are in progress and I’m excited to say they’ll be by Jake Caleb, who did the fantastic covers for When Valor Must Hold and Songs of Valor, among many others.
I’m really looking forward to the next project, too. This will be The Door into Winter, and it will continue the stories of Irina, Ausartxango, and Geirr. I should also mention big changes are coming to Shijuren which I’ll talk about next week.
With that, I have to finish another short story of my own, which will come out in the fall.
Lots of projects here, which is just the way I like it.
What I’m Listening To
No Rain by Blind Melon on the overhead at Brewbaker’s. That’s a surprisingly good album, with No Rain being an example of a good song that earned radio airplay but not close to being the best one on the album. Tones of Home is that for me, but I’ve talked with others who picked something.
Also, I’m listening to Todd Fahnestock blather along. He’s in town for Planet Comicon and we’re writing together.
Two writers at one table. This bodes ill…
Quote of the WeekThe Second Jacobite Rebellion, or the 45, started on 19 August 1745. It’s Charles Stuart’s attempt to regain the throne for James Stewart.From this came a song we still sing at SCA events. Here’s a chunk from Robert Burns’ version.What makes heroic strife, fam’d afar, fam’d afar?What makes heroic strife, fam’d afar?
What makes heroic strife?
To whet th’ assassin’s knife,
Or hunt a parent’s life
Wi’ bluidie war.
― Robert BurnsNew Mythology Works in Progress
Current open anthology calls:FantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology Call
Hey, have you guys heard we’re going to publish a couple of anthologies in the fall?
Rob’s Works in Progress
The Door Into Winter (0)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)MON (3053)Upcoming Events
FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NCDetails in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
Someday the Stars, Book 2 of the Lunar Free State series by John Siers is out. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09CCSXNX5.
And there’s a heck of a giveaway going on including a couple of CKP titles. Go here: https://scifibridge.com/ and get yourself in the drawing for a slew of stuff.
Tracked Items
Today’s Weight: 334.6
Updated Word Count: 183,244
Shijuren Wiki: 753 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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
August 13, 2021
Armistice AAR
Greetings all
I am home safely from a fantastic trip to Armistice. I’m so glad I went.
For those who aren’t aware, Armistice was a replacement event for the largest SCA event around, Pennsic. It was held at the same site as Pennsic, Cooper’s Lake Campground in Slippery Rock, PA. There were about 1450 attendees where Pennsic has about 10,000. Pennsic is an official SCA event run in partnership with the campground.
First, the weather was awesome. Best weather I’ve ever seen at events at this time. We had one day with a little rain. The rest were in 70s/low 80s. Cool at night. The final Saturday was a little warm and humid, but still better than many days I’ve enjoyed at Cooper’s Lake.
From a work standpoint, it was an unqualified success.
It has been my experience that the first time a particular group has an event after things got started, I saw less traffic but had a higher hit rate. This was true for Armistice. Now, of course I’d see less traffic with about 1/7th the attendance, but the hit rate was solid for sales. In fact, I sold more this year than I’ve sold at any Pennsic.
I was lucky in that a couple of my regulars from previous Pennsics were there and they both bought a bunch, but even so I sold more than I have in the past.
I also managed to get a short story out the door, make progress on another short story, and make progress on the final rush of stories for the upcoming Talons & Talismans anthologies.
I was an idiot for scheduling the deadline *during* this event, by the way, but I muddled through. I had less time for writing, however, so I didn’t reach my overall writing goals. As mentioned, though, I was moderately productive in this too.
One big thing is that I now have a traditional shop location at Pennsic. It’s between Calontir Trim and Gaukler Medieval Wares across from Windrose Armory. This is, in many ways, the ideal spot for me. Makes me excited to go back next year.
From a personal standpoint, I had a great time. In fact, this will go down as one of the best medieval events I’ve attended. I attribute this in part to everyone’s desire to have fun.
This may sound odd, but it is the case that some people participate in things in part so they can be doomsayers. This tendency has, not surprisingly, been in full force of late. Nobody at Armistice was unaware of the world’s challenges, but the naysayers didn’t come. I think everyone went there with the intent to be cheerful and spread that cheer.
So many smiles. So much friendship, even amongst people who hadn’t met before. The friends I see once or twice a year are my favorite part of Pennsic, and while I missed a bunch who weren’t there, I had more than a few who were. Plus, I got to know some people I hadn’t really talked to before.
I also discovered just how important Pennsic is to me. It’s been my summer home for over 20 years now. I knew I missed it last year, but not how much. I discovered the truth when I got a hug from a buddy at Gate, and I almost broke down crying then and there.
So good to be home. A refrain repeated by many throughout the week.
I spent a lot of time at the campsite hosted by Elizabeth Silverloc where High Rafters normally camps. This was the biggest concentration of friends at the event, plus there were bardic circles several nights. Exactly my thing.
Another positive thing is that my attempts to eat and drink wisely went pretty well. I basically held my weight during the event. Since it’s become clear that a big challenge for my weight are my trips to events and cons.
I went with the plan to drink primarily low-carb IPAs. There are several good ones out there. My two favorites are Slightly Mighty and the Lagunitas Daytime. The latter is dryer and reminiscent of Schlafly’s APA, one of my favorites. I also had the Sweetwater option, which was solid, but not great like the other two.
Anyway, these allowed me to essentially drink as much as I wanted to without hammering all the carbs and getting blasted. They aren’t my all-time favorite IPAs, but certainly more than tasty enough. Since I drink sparingly anymore unless I’m at events and cons, their low ABV helps me not be stupid. Ideal all around, in my mind.
My only disappointment was that I didn’t really party as much as I’d hoped. I should have opened the shop later and let myself roam a bit more. I wanted to meet people I’d not seen before, and I didn’t do much of that.
Basically, I had a great time. It is the case that I love selling/writing during the day with the opportunity to spend time with friends in a medieval setting. It’s like the ideal work day for me.
I’m ready to go back.
Rob’s Update: Home is the Hunter
Greetings all
Home from Armistice! What a great event. I outsold *any* SCA event I’ve ever been to, including several Pennsics with 7 times the population over two weeks. Part of that is because several of my regulars were part of those that attended, but still, I was very pleased.
Assuming Pennsic continues, I now have a specific spot of my own where I’ll be located, too. It’s an ideal spot, I think. I’ll be right between Calontir Trim and Gaukler Medieval Wares, across from Windrose Armory. Shady, beautiful, good neighbors, close to the barn.
This has been a week of catching up, both with work stuff and sleep. I got back a day earlier than I anticipated, which helped, but it’s been an exhausting week. I will also freely admit that I chose sleep and to spend some extra time with my sweetie to catch up. That last is why this is late.
I spent a lot of the last two weeks running through the final batch of entries for Talons & Talismans. I’ll make the announcement on Sunday night for who all is in. The choice will be difficult.
Let me put it this way, I’m really glad I’m doing two anthologies. That means I don’t have to choose just four out of the open submissions, but I get to choose eight. Since I’m struggling over which ones to choose out of fifteen who made my final round, the quality of submissions was amazing.
I’m currently finishing a short story. That’ll be done this week. Then I’ll start a new novel I’m entitling The Door Into Winter. This will be out in April.
What I’m Listening To
Watching Little League baseball for those trying to get to the Little League World Series. I love baseball at any level, but I really enjoy watching these guys play the game. Just now a kid from the Nebraska team made a great diving catch to end a game with the tying run on second base. That kid will *never* forget that moment.
Quote of the WeekToday is Alfred Hitchcock’s birthday. What an interesting career he had, of course, I am just now starting to really delve into his specific techniques as I try to be a better writer. Today’s quote is something I’m working on.“There is no terror in the bang, only in the anticipation of it.”
― Alfred Hitchcock
Current open anthology calls:
FantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology CallFinishing the list of stories in the two Talons & Talismans anthologies. On track for my hoped for goal of 15 August.
Rob’s Works in Progress
The Door Into Winter (0)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)MON (829)Upcoming Events
FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NCDetails in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
The big new release is Cherubim by David Hallquist. This is the second book in his War Angel series. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BTRDYVL.
We have another buck book! This times it’s Don’t Call Me Ishmael by Chris Kennedy. This is book 2 of the Fallen World series started by Christopher Woods. You can find this book here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Q56TCF2.
Finally, Eye of the Storm by Chris Kennedy and Mark Wandrey is now available for pre-release in audio form. You can find that here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093NXYC7C.
Tracked Items
Today’s Weight: 337.8 (Side note: I’m really pleased I kept control of my weight throughout Pennsic.)
Updated Word Count: 182,678
Shijuren Wiki: 753 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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
August 5, 2021
Rob’s Update: A Pleasant Little Peace
Greetings all
I’m sitting in my booth on a beautiful day at Armistice. Indeed, the weather has been exceedingly pleasant. Truly beautiful weather.
Right now, I have three very talented musicians playing medieval songs across the courtyard on viol (I think), recorder, and hurdy-gurdy. The breeze is just enough to give the air a nice feel. And all around me are the wonderful sounds of a medieval marketplace enjoying itself.
First, this week, is a poll from Chris Kennedy himself. He’d like to know what readers want. You find the poll here: https://joesolari.typeform.com/to/joz29tie. This will help us get you what you want. Better yet, if you fill it out, you’ll be able to enter a drawing to win one of three $100 gift cards at the store of your choice or $100 cash sent to your PayPal or Venmo.
Most of what I’m doing when customers aren’t here are reading through the submissions for Talons & Talismans. I can confirm now that there will actually be two anthologies because I got so much cool stuff. One will come out in October and the other in November. I’ll announce the full lineups a week from today.
I submitted a story to Three Ravens Press on Monday for an anthology. I got to redshirt a good friend in there, as well as having fun with zombie tropes, something I’ve never done before.
My current short story is my story in Talons & Talismans. It’s about Rabah and Jaime Muniotz, two characters earlier in Shijuren’s history, whose actions shape some of the foundation of what I did with Ausartxango Belatz in Brief Is My Flame and None Call Me Mother.
In the next couple of days, I’m going to start a new novel that will be entitled The Door into Winter. Sometimes, the perfect title comes to you that not only fits your plans but seems like the perfect mold to write a story around. This one will start a new series in Shijuren following Irina, Ausartxango, and Geirr after None Call Me Mother.
I do have some disappointing news to report. Due to circumstances outside anyone’s control, I was forced to cancel my appearance at DragonCon. I want to thank all the volunteers, especially Cisca and Regina, for all their hard work. Also, we will still have a major announcement that weekend, however, so stay tuned here.
Been an eventful week, but for now, I’d better get back to selling.
What I’m Listening To
Hurdy-gurdy and recorders in the courtyard accompanied by the occasional rasp of a bowyer shaving bow staves. Quite ideal, I think.
Quote of the Week
Today is the anniversary of the Battle of Mobile Bay. It is entirely likely that means today’s quote is apocryphal. However, like many such quotes, it’s too fun not to believe it happened.
“Damn the torpedoes!”
― Admiral David Farragut
Current open anthology calls:
Talons & Talismans Open Anthology CallFantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology CallI’m currently working on Talons & Talismans. Starting in September, I’ll be editing the next Milesian Accords novel from Jon R. Osborne. Really looking for that.
I am so excited for what’s coming, and I can’t wait to really give you a full schedule.
Rob’s Works in Progress
MON (3,211)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)CSC (1,283)Upcoming Events
FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NCDetails in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
More 4HU awesomeness! This week it’s Robert E. Hampson and Sandra L. Medlock’s And Break it Not, where they continue their thread on the Wrogul. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09BBZY6GS.
There’s also another Buck Book, this one is Lloyd Behm’s Shadow Lands, Book 1 of his Shadow Lands series. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KX8GHYX.
.Today’s Weight: Updated in a week
Updated Word Count: Updated in a week
Shijuren Wiki: Updated in a week
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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
July 31, 2021
Rob’s Update: At Cooper’s Lake Campground
Greetings all
Sorry for being late this week. I arrived in Pennsylvania later than anticipated on Wednesday, so I couldn’t post my update early. And then yesterday and Thursday were devoted to setting up my booth and camp here at Armistice.
Armistice is being held at Cooper’s Lake Campground where Pennsic has been held since the early 70s. They have developed this to an really nice place to relax in many ways, even if you’re not camping here for an event. The changes in the 20 years or so I’ve been coming here are truly astounding.
I knew this spot of the world was important to me but not how much until I got here to check in. In the line, a old friend of mine, who happens to be one of the people who attended the first SCA event ever in 1966, came up and gave me a hug. Not an abnormal way we greet each other but I nearly cried.
It is incredibly good to be home again.
Anyway, this will be a fantastic week for me. I’m set up with a little office as part of my booth, so I essentially have full functionality to write as if I was at Brewbaker’s or something like that at home. If people aren’t here, I get to write. In the past, this has been a fruitful week and I expect no different.
I will be finishing a short story today and tomorrow for a fun little anthology. Today is also the deadline for stories for Talons & Talismans, and I’m excited with what’s come in. You’re going to love these.
Given the schedule, I anticipate providing you all a full list of participants in the anthologies on the 15th or so. While I have no limitations on my writing, there are some limitations on getting out to print stuff. Based on what I’ve seen so far, I’m going to have to give a number of finalists a thorough, proper read through. I already know it’s going to be tough because there’s some great stuff.
With that, it’s time to start selling.
What I’m Listening To
People chatting and enjoying the fantastic weather so far at Armistice.
Quote of the Week
Dusty Hill of ZZ Top passed away this week. Some of ZZ Top’s music, especially the earlier stuff, is truly amazing. Today’s quote is from a song where Dusty was the singer.I been bad, I been good,
Dallas, Texas, Hollywood.
I ain’t askin’ for much.
I said, Lord, take me downtown,
I’m just lookin’ for some tush.
― Dusty Hill, ZZ Top, Tush
New Mythology Works in Progress
Current open anthology calls:
Talons & Talismans Open Anthology CallFantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology CallI’m currently working on collecting all the stories together so I can process Tolons & Talismans.
Rob’s Works in Progress
Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)CSC (1,283)MON (829)Upcoming Events
DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GAhttps://www.dragoncon.org/FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NC
Details in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
And Break It Not by Robert E. Hampson and Sandra Medlock is the newest 4HU title. The return of the Wrogul! You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BBZY6GS.
We have not one but two new series in the CKP world.
First is book one of the Abner Fortis, ISMC series: Cherry Drop by P.A. Piatt. This you can get here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09B14VBK2.
Next is book one of the The Lunar Free State series by John E. Siers, entitled The Moon and Beyond. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B097QMN7PJ.
Today’s Weight: Will update in two weeks
Updated Word Count: Will update in two weeks
Shijuren Wiki: Will update in two weeks
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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
July 22, 2021
Rob’s Update: Antici… Pation!
Greetings all
This time next week I’ll be setting up camp in Pennsylvania for Armistice. I can hardly wait. I’ve been, as you can tell by the title of this post, antici… pating it for a while.
There’s been a number of general projects I’ve had to clean up while I prep for the trip. Some of that is my hatred of coming home to my work areas completely messy. So I clean more than normal, even though I have less time for that sort of thing. This includes yardwork, and the yard needed a bunch. There’ll be more done this weekend, including making a new thing for my booth at SCA events.
Also, this week I had a number of important things to do with various projects. Things are looking great for Talons & Talismans, especially as I read more and more stories for it.
I’m working on two short stories concurrently and this was a great week for both, though both will be smaller numbers in my list below.
I seem to find that in short stories I often have to write 2-4000 words that I need to put on the page but which aren’t required for the actual story. At some point, then, I figure out what the soul of the story is and then know which parts I need and which I don’t.
It’s a standard thing to get past, and I got past that on both of them. This is when the stories start really flowing, and I’ve already seen that starting to happen.
Finally, some changes will be coming to the mailing list in the next few weeks. Good ones for you, I think.
Tonight, though, it’s date night. It’s actually going to be my real birthday dinner. We’re hitting a Brazilian steakhouse. Meat for the win!!!
What I’m Listening To
The Rangers getting beat by the Tigers. We knew the Rangers didn’t have enough talent this year, but it’s been a horrible sequence since the All-Star break. Not a win in sight. Ah well, bad with the good, and there’s something soothing about the sounds of a baseball game anyway.
Quote of the Week
Alex Trebek would have been 81 today. Interesting how he became such a part of our lives by forcing us to ask questions. Philosophically, I think we should question everything, especially the things we know. Here’s another philosophy I can get behind.
“I think more people should include silliness as part of their daily routines.”
― Alex Trebek
New Mythology Works in Progress
Current open anthology calls:
Talons & Talismans Open Anthology CallFantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology CallI’m currently working on getting a bunch of Talons & Talismans stories ready to go.
Rob’s Works in Progress
Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)CSC (3,587)MON (1,783)Upcoming Events
Armistice, 29 July to 9 August, Slippery Rock, PAhttps://www.cooperslake.com/clchome/eventdetails.php?clceventid=3a1d242a-9dfb-11eb-88ad-10ae3c21f154DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NC
Details in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
Out this week is Alex Rath’s Shedding the Past, a new book in the Salvage Title universe. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099DQS44R.
Today’s Weight: 340.0
Updated Word Count: 172,571
Shijuren Wiki: 753 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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
July 15, 2021
Rob’s Update: Only Pawn in Game of Life
Greetings all
Again, this was not my best writing week, but it was productive nonetheless. A bunch of editing done. A major bit of procrasticleaning that had to be done. Packing for Armistice. Plus dealing with a number of family issues.
I’m getting more and more excited about Talons & Talismans with each new story. There’s some great stuff in these and in only a few weeks you’ll all get to see the final lineups. Going to be a lot of fun.
I’m really looking forward to Armistice as it’s a return to Cooper’s Lake. I’ll talk more about that later, of course, but it’s always a really productive time for both writing and selling. And fun.
Over this weekend I hope to finish a bunch of the editing for Talons & Talismans so I’m ahead of the curve when the final rush hits.
So I guess I’d better go actually get my own story done for that 
What I’m Listening To
Beneath, Between, Behind by Rush. Yes, this is one of the 232 intentional band and song references in “Careful With That Axe, E. U. Gene,” my Salvage Title story coming out in a couple of months.
Quote of the Week
Today is the birthday of Alex Karras, who did an amazing number of things. Hall of Fame player in the NFL, actor, wrestler. Today’s quote is from my favorite role he played.
“Mongo only pawn… in game of life.”
― Alex Karras as Mongo in Blazing Saddles
New Mythology Works in Progress
Current open anthology calls:
Talons & Talismans Open Anthology CallFantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology CallI’m currently working on Steven G. Johnson’s Heart of Ice. That’ll be done next week. Also gathering all the stories for Talons & Talismans
Rob’s Works in Progress
Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)CSC (3,813)MON (2,171)Upcoming Events
Armistice, 29 July to 9 August, Slippery Rock, PAhttps://www.cooperslake.com/clchome/eventdetails.php?clceventid=3a1d242a-9dfb-11eb-88ad-10ae3c21f154DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NC
Details in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
In the Wings, the next Four Horsemen Universe anthology is now out. It’s about a bunch of the secondary characters and you can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B098SGZZGZ.
Also out this week is Orbital Defense Corps, a collection of Kevin Steverson’s short stories. You can find this one here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0979NLZ2Q.
Today’s Weight: 339.2
Updated Word Count: 171,960
Shijuren Wiki: 749 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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org4
July 9, 2021
Rob’s Update: Recovering
Greetings all
Hey! It’s Friday! What the heck happened to the week?
I have noticed that the weeks after long trips tend to be sort of timeless in that I completely lose track. Given that I have about one big trip happening each week for the next few months, I need to get used to travel fatigue again, but for now, I’m just recovering this week.
Anyway, we’re about halfway through the year. Go us!
I had another story accepted this past week! I am going to be part of the fun space opera setting of Salvage Title. This one is called “Careful With That Axe, E.U. Gene.” I’ll talk more about this story when we get closer to release date, but you can probably tell by the title it’s a bit whimsical. This will probably always be one of my favorite stories because it’s just fun. Space battles, gunfights, and archaeology oh, my!
I’m in the midst of two other short stories that I want to have finished by the time I leave for Armistice, so about three weeks. One will be for Talons and Talismans, and it will return to the characters of Rabah and Jaime Muniotz, the founders of the Order of the Fortress of Rabah in Shijuren.
As for the rest of the anthology, it’s proceeding well. I have 3 stories edited and in the can, with several more close. I have a couple of nice surprises to add as well, some neat things happening with that project.
Can’t wait to see all the submissions. My Armistice is going to be busy as I pick the winners. I’ve got five right now that would be excellent choices, so the competition is going to be fierce.
With that, I better get to writing. There’s adventuring to be done!
What I’m Listening To
I’m at Brewbaker’s. Currently, they’re playing a Kiss song. I’m really not a fan of Kiss’s music. I find it boring, frankly. However, they were one of the headliners who helped bring Rush along way back when, so I will always have a bit of a soft spot for them.
Quote of the Week
Samuel Eliot Morison’s 14-volume set of the US Navy in World War II was one of my foundational texts. I read it in the Wichita Public Library multiple times, and it inspired my love of naval history and through that, my love of naval-themed books, including Forester and the space versions by Weber and others.
Today is his birthday, and this quote, while written for historians, is true for all writers.
A few hints as to the craft may be useful to budding historians. First and foremost, get writing!
― Samuel Eliot Morison
New Mythology Works in Progress
Current open anthology calls:
Talons & Talismans Open Anthology CallFantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology CallI’m currently working on reading Steven Johnson’s Heart of Ice, the second in his Arthurian trilogy. I’m also pounding away at getting a head start on the lineup for Talons and Talismans.
Rob’s Works in Progress
Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)CSC (2,332)MON (1,056)Upcoming Events
Armistice, 29 July to 9 August, Slippery Rock, PAhttps://www.cooperslake.com/clchome/eventdetails.php?clceventid=3a1d242a-9dfb-11eb-88ad-10ae3c21f154DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NC
Details in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
This week’s release is the next Four Horsemen anthology, In the Wings. 15 more short stories in the 4HU which, by the way, easily surpassed its goals in the Kickstarter for the role-playing game. You can find this anthology here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B098SGZZGZ.
Today’s Weight: 339.2
Updated Word Count: 171,184
Shijuren Wiki: 746 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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00X95LBB0Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
July 2, 2021
Rob’s Update: At InConjunction
Greetings all
I know it’s only been four days since my last update, but it’s been hectic, fun, and productive.
Tuesday was Lasers and Lagers at the Lie’brary on Beck. It’s a cool bar that is book-themed. My sort of place, right? I’d be in trouble if I lived within walking distance.
The event itself was basically a bunch of CKP authors chatting with people local to Panama City. We donated books to the local library and held raffles to raise money for that library as well. We had such a great time, we never had a chance to record a Dudes in Hyperspace podcast, which was part of the plan.
We also got to surprise, Sheellah, Chris’s wife, with a pre-birthday party. I won’t say what birthday. I’m not that crazy.
It was a great night, though exhausting. Then I had two travel days to get me to Indianapolis to InConjunction. I’m set up in the dealer’s hall with Mark and Joy Wandrey to the right of me and Jon Osborne to the left of me. I’m doomed!!!
I’ll also be on panels. Here’s my schedule:
FRIDAY4:30 p.m: Meet New Mythology Press – Rob Howell, John Osborne – Panel Room6 p.m: Anthologies: Creating and Writing – Mark Wandrey, Rob Howell, T. Lee Harris – Panel Room8 p.m: Writing in a Shared Universe – Mark Wandrey, Rob Howell – Panel RoomSATURDAY2:30 p.m: Pantsing Prep – Rob Howell, Sara Marian – Panel RoomHope to see some of you all there.
Of course, this is the end of the second week since The Ravening of Wolves came out. I’m really pleased with sales. They’ve continued far longer than most of my previous books, and I really appreciate all of you who’ve taken the time to review the book already. Those reviews have kept the momentum going. Also, thanks to all who’ve read the book. Without you, I don’t get to do this job.
Speaking of new stuff, I just sent off a story. It’s a short story in Kevin Steverson’s Salvage Title universe. Hopefully he’ll accept it. It’s one of my most whimsical pieces to date.
Next week, I’ll be organizing more and more of the anthology stuff. The deadline for submissions is 31 July and I want to be ready for the final push. In early August, I’ll put out the final list of all authors in the anthology and the winners.
There’s been some great submissions so far, so keep them coming.
With that, I think I’d better go do some writing.
What I’m Listening To
Xanadu by Rush. I’m getting one of my favorite poems *and* my favorite band, all in one swell foop!
Quote of the Week
Sixty years ago on this day, Ernest Hemingway died, so it’s a good time for one of my favorite quotes from him. This is one of several things he said I try to live up to.
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow men. True nobility lies in being superior to your former self.
― Ernest Hemingway
New Mythology Works in Progress
Current open anthology calls:
Talons & Talismans Open Anthology CallFantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology CallI’m currently working on Heart of Ice, the sequel to Keep of Glass by Steven G. Johnson. This is a fun take on the Arthurian legends.
The big news, however, in the CKP world, is CKP International. We’re in the process of translating our books into German, French, and Japanese, with perhaps some other languages coming.
This will include New Mythology’s titles, of course, and I look forward to announcing those release dates.
Rob’s Works in Progress
Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)CSC (1,283)MON (829)Upcoming Events
InConJunction, 2-4 July, Indianapolis, INhttps://www.inconjunction.org/Salina Comicon, 10-11 July, Salina, KS
https://www.clintscons.com/salina/Armistice, 29 July to 9 August, Slippery Rock, PA
https://www.cooperslake.com/clchome/eventdetails.php?clceventid=3a1d242a-9dfb-11eb-88ad-10ae3c21f154DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NC
Details in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
This week is the 5th in Tim C. Taylor’s Chimera Company series: Hold the Line. This is a great series I’m really enjoying and you can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098BHCLM8.
Today’s Weight: 334.2
Updated Word Count: 170,511
Shijuren Wiki: 746 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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112Currently Available WorksShijuren A Lake Most Deep (Edward, Book 1) The Eyes of a Doll (Edward, Book 2) Where Now the Rider (Edward, Book 3) I Am a Wondrous Thing (The Kreisens, Book 1) Brief Is My Flame (The Kreisens, Book 2) None Call Me Mother (The Kreisens, Book 3)“What’s in a Name” in When Valor Must Hold (An Edward prequel story)“An Oath’s Other Edge” in Dragons and Dribbles : A Corner Scribblers Flash Collection w/ guest author, Rob Howell
Nick Patara, PI
If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
June 28, 2021
Rob’s Update: On the Emerald Coast
Greetings all
Here’s my update from last week, now that I have time to breathe. I’m sitting at Juana’s Pagodas in Navarre Beach, Florida. I’ve had worse views as write. 
I’ve been working on a story for Kevin Steverson’s Salvage Title universe. This is probably the most whimsical story I’ve ever written and it’s mostly done.
Of course, the reason I’m writing last week’s update on a Monday is things have been wonderfully awesome and crazy in my world. This weekend was ConFinement in Nashville. That went very well, I sold lots, but more importantly, I loved feeding off the enthusiasm so many writers have for New Mythology Press.
In truth, that’s been the best part of taking this position. The energy thrown my way from fans and writers has been amazing. I can’t wait to have some of this stuff turn into fruition to reward everyone.
Of course, my big thing last week is the release of The Ravening of Wolves. The first week has gone very well. In fact, I hit 40 reviews and ratings today. 40! That seems really fast to me. Thanks to all who’ve read and reviewed. I really appreciate it.
If you haven’t read it, by the way, it’s here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097C3BP3F.
Why am I sitting at a bar in Florida, you ask? It’s because tomorrow I go to the Lie’brary at Beck for Lasers and Lagers. Thanks to Ian J. Malone for organizing this and I’m glad it worked out that I could come. I’ll be posting from there tomorrow. Also, we’ll do our Dudes in Hyperspace podcast from there, so expect some special awesomeness.
But for now, I’d better write.
What I’m Listening To
Songs they’re playing overhead. Been a nice mix, but of course, there’s Jimmy Buffett so that has to be the quote of the week.
Quote of the Week
And of course, that means I *have* to quote from Margaritaville.
I blew out my flip flop
Stepped on a pop top
Cut my heel, had to cruise on back home
But there’s booze in the blender
And soon it will render
That frozen concoction that helps me hang on
― Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville
New Mythology Works in Progress
Current open anthology calls:
Talons & Talismans Open Anthology CallFantaSci 2022 Writing Contest Open Anthology CallAs mentioned, I’ve been blown away from the response of so many with New Mythology. I got 4 new stories over the weekend, plus a couple of novel-length submissions. Can’t wait to dive into those.
Rob’s Works in Progress
CWTAE (7,885)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)CSC (1,283)MON (829)Upcoming Events
Lasers & Lagers, 29 June, Panama City, FLhttps://www.sharkflight.com/lasersandlagers/InConJunction, 2-4 July, Indianapolis, IN
https://www.inconjunction.org/Salina Comicon, 10-11 July, Salina, KS
https://www.clintscons.com/salina/Armistice, 29 July to 9 August, Slippery Rock, PA
https://www.cooperslake.com/clchome/eventdetails.php?clceventid=3a1d242a-9dfb-11eb-88ad-10ae3c21f154DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/FactoryCon, 22-24 October, Coinjock, NC
Details in the CKP – Factory Floor on Facebook.20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
Hey, did I mention The Ravening of Wolves? In case I didn’t, you can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097C3BP3F.
The reviews to John Siers’s The Moon and Beyond have suggested it’s reminiscent of Heinlein. I look forward to testing that suggestion. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097QMN7PJ and test it yourself.
Today’s Weight: 334.2
Updated Word Count: 160,689
Shijuren Wiki: 733 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 HowellAuthor of the Shijuren-series of novels
Website: www.robhowell.orgBlog: www.robhowell.org/blogShijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.phpFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112Currently Available WorksShijuren A Lake Most Deep (Edward, Book 1) The Eyes of a Doll (Edward, Book 2) Where Now the Rider (Edward, Book 3) I Am a Wondrous Thing (The Kreisens, Book 1) Brief Is My Flame (The Kreisens, Book 2) None Call Me Mother (The Kreisens, Book 3)“What’s in a Name” in When Valor Must Hold (An Edward prequel story)“An Oath’s Other Edge” in Dragons and Dribbles : A Corner Scribblers Flash Collection w/ guest author, Rob Howell
Nick Patara, PI
If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
