Rob Howell's Blog, page 25
February 11, 2021
Rob’s Update: Non Cogito
Greetings all
It’s been an exhausting but productive week. I went on a fairly small trip this past weekend that proved far more productive than expected. Then, however, my ongoing weirdness with my Achilles flared up. We think it’s because I’ve lost so much weight that it hasn’t really adjusted. In any case, I didn’t get much sleep so I’m running around in a more whimsical mood.
But, as I said, despite the lack of sleep, especially yesterday, and the recovery from the trip, it was a very productive week. Got more written on the The Ravening of Wolves and I expect that to proceed quickly over the next couple of weeks.
I also worked on a number of projects for New Mythology. These are going at the speed I’d anticipated. This included accepting my second submission. Want to know the first submission? Well, read on, my friends, I will make the announcement in the New Mythology Press section below.
And with that, it’s time to spend time with the sweetie.
What I’m Listening To
Tyr’s Excavation. Tyr is a Faroese Band that does Norse-themed metal. This particular song was a big hit among re-enactors some time ago because it had a great video. It wouldn’t have mattered if it wasn’t a great song. It’s one of my hit repeat songs.
Quote of the Week
Rene Descartes died on this day in 1650, and my black-humored soul can’t resist.
“Non cogito ergo non sum.”
― Descartes as he’s dying, probably
New Mythology Works in Progress
The first submission I accepted was a really cool story about a half-dragon involving an intricate magic system, dragons, and aircraft carriers. It’s also filled with excellent political intrigue and lots of great action. It’s called Across the Endless Ocean by G. Scott Huggins.
Some of you may be familiar with that name. He was the winner of Baen’s yearly fantasy award in 2020 and was runner up in 2014, so he’s clearly talented. I’m honored to bring him on board with New Mythology Press. You’re going to love this story.
As mentioned, we’ve several projects in the queue besides that one. The next two novels are the third of the Moniah series by Barbara V. Evers and the second of the Balance of Kerr series by Kevin Steverson.
But we know you want more and I’ve got more coming. Tune in next week for another announcement.
Rob’s Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (44,113)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)Cynewulf (8,642)Gato (2,312)Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 21-23 May, Durham, NChttps://fantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
This week we have another BookBub special as well as a new release. Redacted Affairs, by the Kevins (Steverson and Ikenberry) is available for at least a little longer for $0.99. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07W5S55JD.
But wait, we can even do better than that! Watchers of Moniah, the first of the Moniah trilogy, is now available for free as part of this month’s IASFA promotion. You have 3 more days to get it for $0.00. Which, let me just say, is a price you just can’t beat for a great story. You can find this one here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08QRJTHHC/.
We also have a new release from Tim C. Taylor, The Fall of Rho-Torkis. This is mil-sf and I’ve been waiting on this. Taylor’s a fun writer, and I’d say that if he hadn’t invited me across the pond to share pints at a pub. You can find this here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08VRL8H27.
Today’s Weight: 341.8
Updated Word Count: 6,734
Shijuren Wiki: 725 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.
Have a great week, everyone.
Rob 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
February 4, 2021
Rob’s Update: Terse? I Can Be Terse.
Greetings all
This was one of those weeks where I went to bed every day quite happy with my productivity, but it’s hard to quantify. These kind of weeks make weeks with a number of things going out the door happen, but I can’t talk about it all just yet.
Songs of Valor CoverThe big news is that the Songs of Valor cover was released. I might have mentioned I’m excited about this project, and every cover makes authors know their work is about to be real.
I cut out some of The Ravening of Wolves, which is a step back, but then had three good days of writing. The cut stuff will probably show up later when I find the right place for it, but in the meantime I am really having fun with this story.
I sent my edits off to my first accepted novel. You’re really going to like getting a little Responsibility in your life. More to come soon.
I’m already starting to figure out how to be efficient with slush pile stuff. That being said, I think it’s incumbent on me to provide some sort of feedback to authors. It’s extra work, but I know that’s what I want when I have people read my stuff. Anyway, I sent a couple of those back this week.
Side note, I’m getting faster at reading again. I used to devour books, but since I started writing it’s been a challenge to read new stuff. When it’s for work, oddly enough, I find I’m enjoying just reading again.
Anyway, I’ve got a busy weekend planned so I’m going to stop here.
What I’m Listening To
Won’t Get Fooled Again by the Who. Such a great album.
Quote of the Week
We’ve been watching Firefly again, so you get another Firefly quote.
“Terse? I can be terse. Once in flight school, I was laconic.”
― Wash, Firefly, War Stories
New Mythology Works in Progress
The next release from New Mythology is the third of Barbara Evers Watchers of Moniah series, which will complete the trilogy. That comes out 1 March.
Then Songs of Valor on the 19th.
Following that, Kevin Steverson’s Accepted, sequel to Burnt, is on the way, though there’s no set date. Then there are two awesome novels in the pipeline, both of which will come out hopefully by the end of May.
Man, this is fun.
Rob’s Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (42,577)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)Cynewulf (8,642)Gato (2,312)Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 19-21 March, Durham, NChttps://fantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/20BooksTo50K, 8-12 November, Las Vegas, NV
http://20booksvegas.com/
New Releases
This week, we see Mike Massa’s Shakes, first book in the Murphy’s Lawless series, is $0.99 on a Bookbub promotion. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0861F23KH.
Next, we have an anthology in the Charles Gannon’s Caine Riordan series entitled Lost Signals: A Terran Republic Anthology. You can find it here: https://smile.amazon.com/Lost-Signals-Terran-Republic-Anthology-ebook/dp/B08V4MYT4L.
Today’s Weight: 346.2
Updated Word Count: 5,869
Shijuren Wiki: 729 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
January 28, 2021
Rob’s Update: No Power In The ‘Verse
Greetings all
This week I’ve been focused on getting new stories out. I have a new writer that I can’t wait to publish. I’ll finish my edits tomorrow.
There are several other stories coming in soon, plus a cool new project that we’re making progress on.
However, the biggest news is the first New Mythology Release since I became publisher, the second in Barbara V. Evers’ Watchers of Moniah trilogy: The Watchers in Exile.
I made some progress on The Ravening of Wolves, but not as much as I’d hoped. Nevertheless, I got over 40k this week, so it’s getting there too.
What I’m Listening To
You’ll know the show I’m watching when you read the quote.
Quote of the Week
“I don’t believe there’s a power in the ‘verse can stop Kaylee from being cheerful.”
Capt. Malcolm Reynolds
― Firefly
New Mythology Works in Progress
With the second of Barbara V. Evers’ Watchers of Moniah trilogy, The Watchers in Exile coming out on Monday, those of you with sharp eyes might suspect a third book is on the way. And it is! March 1st, the trilogy will be complete and I’m looking forward to seeing the bad guys get what’s coming to them.
The next release is Songs of Valor, the second of the Libri Valoris anthologies. You’re going to love it.
Following that is the next in Kevin Steverson’s Balance of Kerr series, called Accepted, follows up his great novel Burnt. Then the queue is starting to stack up. Exciting stuff.
Rob’s Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (41,984)Rick Blaine (8,845)BT (3,887)CB (8,418)Cynewulf (8,642)Gato (2,312)Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 19-21 March, Durham, NChttps://fantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/
New Releases
This week’s spotlight is on Barbara V. Evers’ The Watchers in Exile. I might have mentioned that came out on Monday.
Also out is Mark Wandrey’s Sword of Minerva, next story in the Four Horseman Universe. The Guild Wars is getting good.
Finally, the factory boss’s story, A Gulf in the Past, came out in audio form this past week. This is the second book in Chris Kennedy’s Progenitor’s War series.
Today’s Weight: 345.8
Updated Word Count: 5,106
Shijuren Wiki: 725 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.
Have a great week, everyone.
Rob 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
January 21, 2021
Rob’s Update: Building Things Up
Greetings all
A really productive and exciting week in Rob-land. Lots of projects happening, and I spent a bunch of it world-building. I don’t want to get too much into this, only it’s going to be something amazing down the road.
I didn’t get as much actual writing done as I hoped, but I did make progress in The Ravening of Wolves. I also laid out several chapters ahead of time, cleared out a bunch of deadwood, and set myself up for some fun explosions.
That’s about all from my personal side of things, though I have quite a bit in the New Mythology section.
What I’m Listening To
Van Halen’s Dance the Night Away on the overhead at Brewbaker’s Bar & Grill in Lenexa. This is my standard writing bar and they take great care of me.
Quote of the Week
Today is Edith Tolkien’s birthday. She’d be 132 today, or a year old than Bilbo Baggins when he crossed the sea to the West.
She died a couple years before JRR did, and he wrote this after her passing. It’s a powerful quote about love.
“I never called Edith Luthien – but she was the source of the story that in time became the chief part of the Silmarillion. It was first conceived in a small woodland glade filled with hemlocks at Roos in Yorkshire (where I was for a brief time in command of an outpost of the Humber Garrison in 1917, and she was able to live with me for a while). In those days her hair was raven, her skin clear, her eyes brighter than you have seen them, and she could sing – and dance. But the story has gone crooked, & I am left, and I cannot plead before the inexorable Mandos.”
― JRR Tolkien, Letters of Tolkien
New Mythology Works in Progress
The big New Mythology news is the release of The Watchers in Exile on the 25th. This is the second in the Watchers of Moniah trilogy. You can get the first book, The Watchers of Moniah, here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08QRJTHHC.
I’d suggest jumping into this quickly, because the third book of the trilogy comes out on 1 March. If you’re one of those who wants to wait for a series to be finished before getting the first, you might as well get Watchers, because the final story’s going through the mill right now.
Next after that will be Songs of Valor, the second of the Libri Valoris series of anthologies. It’s chock full of great stuff, and that’s coming out 19 March.
After that, we have several in process, including the next Kevin Steverson and an excellent submission we’ll announce soon.
New Mythology Schedule25 January: The Watchers in Exile (Watchers of Moniah, Book 2) by Barbara Evers (At the Advance Reader Team)1 March: The Watchers at War (Watchers of Moniah, Book 3) by Barbara Evers (Note this will complete the trilogy)19 March: Songs of Valor (Libri Valoris, Book 2)Rob’s Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (38,684)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)Cynewulf (8,642)Gato (2,312)Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 19-21 March, Durham, NChttps://fantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/
New Releases
Alex Rath’s Fallen World story, Call Me Mr. Smith comes out in audio form. CKP audio books keep getting pumped out, and this is just the latest. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RS8RG45.
The big release this week, however, is Bill Webb’s The Trashman, the latest novel in his Hit World universe. This is the first of this series to come to CKP but won’t be the last. It’s a universe that includes a little bit of everything, and that makes it a fun sandbox for writers and readers to play. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SVZF2HF.
Today’s Weight: 347.4 (I guess I weigh 347, as I’ve weighed in the 347s for 5 straight days).
Updated Word Count: 4,458
Shijuren Wiki: 725 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.
Have a great week, everyone.
Rob 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
January 14, 2021
Rob’s Update: Thursday, Thursday
Greetings all
First, I want to thank all of you who’ve joined the mailing list this past week. Not surprisingly, a bunch of people are interested in New Mythology Press. Can’t blame you, we’re doing some good stuff.
Anyway, you’ll see I add a few things besides simply tossing business stuff at you. This first section is what I’m working on or things in my life. Then I’ll add what I’m listening, which will sometimes flow right into the Quote of the Week. I love aphorisms, by the way, so if you’ve got some fun ones, send them my way.
After that is when I’ll get into the meaty part. There’s a section on what’s happening with New Mythology. Then a list of my works in progress. If it’s a novel and I’ve got a title, it’s listed. Then there’s the various short story scraps that I’m messing with. These don’t always change, but I like to remind myself what I’m doing.
Speaking of what I’m doing, I then have my schedule listed. Right now, it’s basically just FantaSci, LibertyCon, and DragonCon, but I have hopes to add a number of others later in the year. As we all know, we’ll see what happens.
Next comes the New Releases section. This includes not only my own new releases, nor also New Mythology’s, but I’ve been blessed to be a part of a cool and productive writing crew and I like to brag about them too.
Finally, there are a few counters. I like to keep track of my weight, and I might as well do it here. Then there’s my updated word count. I’m still waffling on how I’ll count edited works, as that will be more and more common, but I have goals I strive for each year. Finally, there’s a list of the number of entries on Shijuren wiki page, which tends to shoot up in bunches as I’m working on a new Shijuren story.
I’m actually working on a new story in the Four Horsemen Universe right now, the sequel to The Feeding of Sorrows. This one’s called The Ravening of Wolves, as the Foresters work with the Zuul to strike at those who’ve been attacking both units for years.
It’s a bit of a truncated week, as things get shifted around, but I’m excited where I’m going with a variety of projects and I think you guys are going to love the explosions and swordplay coming down the pike.
What I’m Listening To
Hemispheres, by Rush. Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been picking albums by Rush and just playing them over and over. It’s reminiscent of getting a new cassette and sticking it into the player on my 1969 VW Bug. Slug bug orange, by the way.
Quote of the Week
I still remember the first time I heard these lyrics. I immediately loved the way Neil Peart twisted and wove these words around into such a neat pattern. It was about this point, I started to love poetry.
Let the truth of love be lighted
Let the love of truth shine clear
Sensibility, armed with sense and liberty
With the heart and mind united in a single, perfect sphere
“Hemispheres”
― Rush
New Mythology Works in Progress
As we’ve posted in a variety of places, New Mythology Press is accepted submissions. Here are the guidelines.
Novels of 80 to 120k wordsIn .doc or .docx file formatTimes New Roman, 12pt1.5 spacedCan be fantasy of any type, epic, urban, high, whatever. Needs to have heroes doing heroic things, just like you’ve come to expect from all the books from CKP.I’m pleased to say that I’ve accepted one of several submissions and I’m about 30% through my editing pass. This is really exciting, and I can’t wait to share this great story and the others in this series. You’re going to love Responsibility.
There are currently three books on the schedule from New Mythology Press. They are:
25 January: The Watchers in Exile (Watchers of Moniah, Book 2) by Barbara Evers (At the Advance Reader Team)1 March: The Watchers at War (Watchers of Moniah, Book 3) by Barbara Evers (Note this will complete the trilogy)19 March: Songs of Valor (Libri Valoris, Book 2)There are a number of other projects in the works, including a couple of sequels in existing series and the first glimmerings of some other awesome projects.
Again, I’m honored with the opportunity that Chris gave me here, and I can’t wait to get you a bunch of cool stuff to read.
Rob’s Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (35,863)Rick Blaine (8,845)CB (8,418)Cynewulf (8,642)Gato (2,312)Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 19-21 March, Durham, NChttps://fantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/
New Releases
This week’s spotlight is still on This week’s spotlight is on Christopher Woods and William Joseph Roberts, who put out their own take on the Salvage Title universe with Smuggler’s Run. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08S71RJP5. They get spotlighted twice because of the change in mailing list days.
Also, Jon Osborne’s A Tangled Fate, the third in his Milesian Accords series, is now out in audiobook form. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/Tangled-Fate-M....
Finally, Chris Kennedy decided to give some unknown guy a little help and wrote a book with him. The other guy? Oh, just David Weber. They just released Into the Light, the second in their Out of the Dark series. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BKLY24N.
Today’s Weight: 347.8
Updated Word Count: 3,602
Shijuren Wiki: 724 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
January 9, 2021
Rob’s Update: New Mythology Press
Greetings all
Well, this has been a wonderful and eventful week for me. On Wednesday, Chris Kennedy gave me the opportunity to become lead dog on New Mythology Press, his fantasy imprint. This means I’ll be taking submissions and guiding the accepted books through the process of publication.
This is incredibly exciting and I look forward to bringing you all a bunch of great stuff to read.
I’ll be adjusting some things related to my weekly email as part of this. I’m going to start sending them out Thursday to better flow with Tuesday releases for New Mythology Press. I’ve added a New Mythology Works in Progress section where I’ll discuss what’s going on there. There will be more changes as I adapt to this amazing new opportunity.
Thanks again to Chris.
By the way, if you’re interested in submitting a novel to New Mythology Press here are the basics:
New Mythology Press Novel Submission Guidelines
Novels of 80 to 120k words
In .doc or .docx file format
Times New Roman, 12pt
1.5 spaced
Can be fantasy of any type, epic, urban, high, whatever. Needs to have heroes doing heroic things, just like you’ve come to expect from all the books from CKP.
However, this does not mean I’ll stop writing. Not at all. I actually had a great week of progress on The Ravening of Wolves, getting about 6k done despite not writing at all yesterday because it was my sweetie’s birthday. It’s good to get back into the groove.
With that, I better get working. I’ve already got submissions to read. Exciting stuff!
What I’m Listening To
Rush, all of it. Neil died a year ago Thursday and I’m not over it.
Quote of the Week
I’ve probably used this quote before, but it’s too powerful not to use again. It comes from the last song on the last album by Rush. Neil nurtured one hell of a garden.
“The measure of a life is a measure of love and respect
So hard to earn, so easily burned
In the fullness of time
A garden to nurture and protect”
– Neil Peart (1952 – 2020), “The Garden” from Clockwork Angels
New Mythology Works in Progress
Songs of Valor is basically complete. It goes to the editor this weekend. I’m really proud of how this turned out and you’ll want to get it when it comes out in March. Here’s the list of fantastic stories and ridiculously good author list, along with a note if they’re part of an existing series:
The Dragon and the Drunkard by David Weber
Smoke and Shadow by Jon Osborne (Milesian Accords series)
On a Wing and a Train by Benjamin Tyler Smith (Necrolopolis series)
The One You’d Least Expect by Chris Kennedy
Oathbreaker by Melissa Olthoff
Changes by Kevin Steverson (Balance of Kerr series)
What the Eye Sees by Quincy J. Allen (Rellen series)
Songbird by Jamie Ibson
One More Flight by Sarah Hoyt
A Quaint Pastime by Casey Moores
Backup by D.J. Butler (Indrajit and Fix series)
The Hill to Die On by J.P. Chandler
Magnum Opus by Rob Howell (Shijuren series)
Cranky Bitch by Glen Cook (Black Company series)
The Dregs by Larry Correia
I’m still amazed by this collection of talent. Truly an honor to be a part of it.
Rob’s Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (35,384)
Rick Blaine (8,845)
CB (8,418)
Cynewulf (8,642)
Gato (2,312)
Recent Blog Posts and Wiki Additions
Working on other things this week
Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 19-21 March, Durham, NC
https://fantasci.rocks/
LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/
DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/
New Releases
This week’s spotlight is on Christopher Woods and William Joseph Roberts, who put out their own take on the Salvage Title universe with Smuggler’s Run. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08S71RJP5.
Today’s Weight: 345.8
Updated Word Count: 2,396
Shijuren Wiki: 725 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.
Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Author of the Shijuren-series of novels
Website: www.robhowell.org
Blog: www.robhowell.org/blog
Shijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.php
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112
Currently Available Works
Shijuren
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
Silent Knight (Nick Patara, PI, Book 1)
Under a Midnight Clear (Nick Patara, PI, Book 2) (Forthcoming)
Four Horsemen Universe
“Where Enemies Sit” in For a Few Credits More (Revelations Cycle, Book 7))
“A Sword for Striking” in Luck Is Not a Factor (Four Horsemen Tales, Book 6)
Fire From Fire Quickened” in The Gates of Hell (Four Horsemen Saga, Book 4)
The Feeding of Sorrows (Four Horsemen Tales, Book 11)
The Phases of Mars
“Far Better to Dare” in Those In Peril
“In Dark’ning Storms” in To Slip the Surly Bonds
“Here Must We Hold” in Trouble in the Wind
Short Stories
“A Gift of Crimson” in Hand of Gold and Other Stories (Pussy Katnip)
“The Chaos of Well-Seeming Forms” in We Dare
“Nor War’s Quick Fire” in We Dare II: Semper Paratus (Forthcoming, 2020)
If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
January 2, 2021
Rob’s Update: Wander’d Mony A Weary Fit
Greetings all
Overall, this week has been fairly leisurely. I’ve taken some time off to spend with my sweetie. Been doing some reading. Truth be told, it’s been my laziest week in months.
I did get a number of things done. I have finished the new read through on A Lake Most Deep and it’ll be renewed over the next week or so. I also started with my read through of The Eyes of a Doll. Overall, I’m aiming to refresh all of the Edward books by the end of the month. Those of you who’ve purchased it already will get the new version automatically.
I started Lord of the Rings again last night. I read through the initial foreword to the 50th anniversary edition and I had to laugh. Tolkien never stopped trying to fix all the errors he found that crept in from faulty work and decisions made by editors thinking they’d be “helping.”
Makes me feel a lot better about my progress as a book creator, which is different than a writer.
Anyway, I also did some more research on effective advertising techniques. If you’ve seen my name popping up here or there a little more often, it’s not an accident as I’m prowling through the best way to do things.
This, by the way, is one reason I’m updating A Lake Most Deep. I’ve got new tools to get it in front of people. Generally, to this point, I’ve relied on you all talking about my books. You’ve done a great job, and I thank all of you who’ve given me a review and pushed my stuff on your friends. Actually, I can’t thank you enough, but I’ll certainly try.
I did get some new words written on The Ravening of Wolves and I’ve thought through some of the blocks that have been holding me up. I really want to get it done quickly because I have another Edward book demanding to get written.
What I’m Listening To
It’s a great day for football! I actually got a 7-day free trial of Fubo in order to watch football this weekend.
Quote of the Week
Here’s the verse of Auld Lang Syne that seems apt this year.
“We twa hae run about the braes,
and pou’d the gowans fine;
But we’ve wander’d mony a weary fit,
sin’ auld lang syne.”
― Robert Burns, Auld Lang Syne
News and Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (29,189)
Rick Blaine (8,845)
CB (8,418)
Cynewulf (8,642)
Gato (2,312)
Recent Blog Posts and Wiki Additions
2020 Review: http://robhowell.org/blog/?p=2211
Samiel’s Castle: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.php?page=Samiel%27s-Castle
Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 19-21 March, Durham, NC
https://fantasci.rocks/
LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/
DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/
New Releases
This week’s spotlight is on Steven G. Johnson, who shows us Arthur stories still work in his Keep of Glass. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RMVLWXV.
Today’s Weight: 348.0
2021 Word Count: 1,467
Shijuren Wiki: 725 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.
Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Author of the Shijuren-series of novels
Website: www.robhowell.org
Blog: www.robhowell.org/blog
Shijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.php
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112
Currently Available Works
Shijuren
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
Silent Knight (Nick Patara, PI, Book 1)
Under a Midnight Clear (Nick Patara, PI, Book 2) (Forthcoming)
Four Horsemen Universe
“Where Enemies Sit” in For a Few Credits More (Revelations Cycle, Book 7))
“A Sword for Striking” in Luck Is Not a Factor (Four Horsemen Tales, Book 6)
Fire From Fire Quickened” in The Gates of Hell (Four Horsemen Saga, Book 4)
The Feeding of Sorrows (Four Horsemen Tales, Book 11)
The Phases of Mars
“Far Better to Dare” in Those In Peril
“In Dark’ning Storms” in To Slip the Surly Bonds
“Here Must We Hold” in Trouble in the Wind
Short Stories
“A Gift of Crimson” in Hand of Gold and Other Stories (Pussy Katnip)
“The Chaos of Well-Seeming Forms” in We Dare
“Nor War’s Quick Fire” in We Dare II: Semper Paratus (Forthcoming, 2020)
If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
Rob’s Ramblings: 2020 Review
Now that 2020 is in the mirror, it’s time for me to review my output for the year and give myself a grade.
I only published one novel, None Call Me Mother. It was an important novel and a big challenge as the third of a trilogy. I learned a ton of things writing that series and I’ll never do that the same way again.
I published another Foresters story. Actually, I published another Rick Blaine story. I think, long-term, that’s where my 4HU future really lies. I got 30k into The Ravening of Wolves and it will be as straightforward a novel as I’ve ever written. At this point, it’s about arming up too damn quickly to fight a desperate fight. The physics of the 4HU means that Blaine has to be separate.
There was another story in the We Dare series. It was a prequel to “The Chaos of Well-Seeming Forms.” I like where that universe is going and I might very well do something with it down the road. Hence, I’m calling those the “On Opportunity’s Trail” universe. There’s stuff there, once I get a chance to write in it.
I had the great honor of being the guest for the Scribblers Corner anthology Dragons and Dribbles. My first time as a “guest star.” Thanks to William Joseph Roberts for the opportunity.
I wrote several fantasy short stories in 2020. I wrote one in late 2019, “What’s in a Name,” that came out in When Valor Must Hold. I wrote another Edward-ish story for Songs of Valor. My story in Dragons and Dribbles was another Shijuren story. I also dabbled in something that’s specifically Conan-esque.
While much of the fantasy stuff I wrote will only come out in 2021, I was pleased to really start pushing more short fantasy. I’ll be doing more of that in Shijuren to fill in some of the blanks.
I did my second Nick Patara, PI story. That world is really coming into view, and I actually got about 1k written in next year’s story.
Overall, I published about 200k worth of fiction. This is lower than I want, as it only included 1 novel and 5 short stories. There were also three introductions/prefaces. I also have a couple short stories that are in upcoming anthologies. I also had about 70k on my blog, so all told I counted 268,072 words.
This isn’t enough. I’ll give myself a C here. Had I written another novel, I’d give myself an A. Missed it by 70k.
However, I will adjust my overall grade up a bit when I consider what else I’ve done. The way the schedule worked, I did most of the work for both When Valor Must Hold and Songs of Valor in the 2020 calendar year.
So, while I only wrote about 20k words in those two total, they were two full-sized projects that I’m not counting in the above 200k. I’m not quite sure how to count editing work in my word count, so that’s something I’ll have to figure out.
I also had to rebuild the wiki for Shijuren in 2020. That ended up over 100k words of worldbuilding, record-keeping, and foundational work. This made it much easier to write my story for Songs of Valor, and is really pushing another Edward story.
Also, re-doing the wiki made it much easier for me to re-edit I Am a Wondrous Thing and Brief is My Flame. That took time too. I’m in the midst of re-editing the Edward books, and by the end of January, I expect them to be fresher and faster.
I did start learning how on-line publicity works. I’m still not doing it well, but making progress. It’s not something I’ve done a ton of, and I think I’m missing some opportunities there.
Actually, now that I think of it, I did quite a bit of research during the year to turn some instinctive things into known things that I can consciously call on instead of relying upon their appearance. I’m definitely getting better.
Overall, that extra work brings my grade up to a B-. I didn’t do awful, but I’m sure I could have done more. I’ll do another post next week about my goals and plans for 2021. Next year, I’ll try and do better.
December 25, 2020
Rob’s Update: Happy Holidays!
Happy holidays to everyone!
Your Christmas gift, Under a Midnight Clear, will be in an email immediately following this one. It’s a 5.9Mb Zip file with the story in .pdf, .epub, and .mobi formats. That should cover most, if not all of you, but if you need it in another format, let me know. My e-book creation software can let me do just about anything.
Also, if you have any issues receiving that email, including not getting it at all, problems with a file that large, or anything else. Let me know, and I’ll make sure to help you. I’ll assume, by the way, that you’ve checked your Spam directory, which it might shunt to for a variety of reasons, of course.
My sweetie and I opened our presents last night and snuggled on the couch watching Youtube videos of Rowan Atkinson, Monty Python, and Victor Borge. We also tried the gluten-free low-carb pork rind panko breading on Buffalo strips. Delicious.
Today we’ll be doing some Zoom calls, like I suspect many will do. I’ll do some more re-editing on A Lake Most Deep as well. Then we’ll have steak and a fixings for dinner. Yeah, it’s not traditional, but even a small turkey and ham and all the rest is too much for me. At least now. There were days in the past, though…
This was not my most productive week, but I did stuff I needed to do. Stuff that consolidated and organized a bunch of things. I cleaned up my file structure on my computers, which needed straightening up. This has the benefit of double-checking all my backups. I did, of course, finish Under a Midnight Clear and get it ready to deliver.
Anyway, I hope you all have a fantastic day and holiday season.
What I’m Listening To
Wizards in Winter by Trans-Siberian Orchestra. I’m really a fan of Christmas music, especially hard rock and metal versions. TSO is the best of this, having made a living melding genres into something spectacular.
Quote of the Week
This seems like an appropriate quote after 2020. I think we all need a little extra, and that means we all need to try and do a little extra for each other.
“Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.”
― Charles M. Schulz
News and Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (29,784)
Rick Blaine (8,845)
CB (8,418)
Cynewulf (8,642)
Gato (2,312)
Recent Blog Posts and Wiki Additions
I spent the week cleaning up a few mistakes on the wiki. I did add one new page, though. Interestingly, research for that one page gave me a bunch of new ideas because I stumbled across a fable sunken city. Heck, yeah, I’m gonna use that someday.
Inland Seas: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.php?page=Inland-Seas
Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 19-21 March, Durham, NC
https://fantasci.rocks/
LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/
DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/
New Releases
This week’s spotlight is on Nick Steverson, who has jumped in with both feet. This week, he releases his second novel in the Salvage Title universe, Action. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08R7T6DP5.
Today’s Weight: 348.6 (Not a typo)
Updated Word Count: I’ve decided I need to keep track of wiki entries better. My new backup process allows me to track how many words I use on the wiki, but that is someone misleading because that includes a variety of things like “BOX(width=”250px” align=”left” float=”right” bg=”#1f2e52″ style=padding: 10px” which shouldn’t really count.
However, given some of the feedback I’ve gotten, the wiki *is* contributing to Shijuren’s readership so it should count for something, especially since part of the reason I keep these word counts is to reward myself when I do work. Hence, I’m going to start counting the Wiki word count at 1/4th. I did over 100k words, or a full novel of exposition that isn’t dragging down the stories.
Anyway, here’s the updated total: 293,605
Shijuren Wiki: 724 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.
Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Author of the Shijuren-series of novels
Website: www.robhowell.org
Blog: www.robhowell.org/blog
Shijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.php
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112
Currently Available Works
Shijuren
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
Silent Knight (Nick Patara, PI, Book 1)
Under a Midnight Clear (Nick Patara, PI, Book 2)
Four Horsemen Universe
“Where Enemies Sit” in For a Few Credits More (Revelations Cycle, Book 7))
“A Sword for Striking” in Luck Is Not a Factor (Four Horsemen Tales, Book 6)
Fire From Fire Quickened” in The Gates of Hell (Four Horsemen Saga, Book 4)
The Feeding of Sorrows (Four Horsemen Tales, Book 11)
The Phases of Mars
“Far Better to Dare” in Those In Peril
“In Dark’ning Storms” in To Slip the Surly Bonds
“Here Must We Hold” in Trouble in the Wind
Short Stories
“A Gift of Crimson” in Hand of Gold and Other Stories (Pussy Katnip)
“The Chaos of Well-Seeming Forms” in We Dare
“Nor War’s Quick Fire” in We Dare II: Semper Paratus (Forthcoming, 2020)
If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
December 19, 2020
Rob’s Update: Headlong Into Mystery
Greetings all
I hope your holiday season is going well. We’re not doing much this year, which is a bit of a holiday in its own right. We love decorating and that sort of thing, but I for one am going to appreciate not having to carry all the decorations back to their spot upstairs in January.
And that has meant more time to work on things.
Like releasing last year’s freebie for the mailing list on Amazon. Silent Knight, with new artwork from Cedar Sanderson, is now available for those who aren’t on the list on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08QYWB7C9.
If you read it and liked it, please leave a review. Those always help, no matter the book.
Also, those of you on the mailing list will get Under a Midnight Clear on Christmas Day. I’ll send it out in .mobi, .epub, and .pdf formats. In this one, Alley, Nick’s intel guy, is trying to help a relation of someone he once fought alongside. Nick knows there a case there, but he’s struggling to figure out just what he can do and for whom.
I’ve been cleaning up a number of other projects as well. I arranged None Call Me Mother in a more streamlined fashioned than my previous books. I may have mentioned how I updated the electronic versions of I Am a Wondrous Thing and Brief Is My Flame prior to None Call Me Mother’s release. I just finished updating all the paperback setups as well, a process that involves a lot of futzing with Amazon.
I have started another edit in my copious spare time of A Lake Most Deep, with the intent to provide fresh versions of all the Edward books in early 2021. This includes fixing all the links in the e-versions. The wiki is now mostly current, though I keep finding things I should have put in from earlier books and finding fun world-building ideas. It was always meant as a work in progress anyway and it’s serving its purpose as a font of ideas for the next Edward novel.
My next release will probably be the second in the Libri Valoris series of fantasy anthologies. Songs of Valor is basically ready to go, once I write the preface. It’ll come out in mid-March.
I’m also working on The Ravening of Sorrows. I’m at about 28k and if that number seems low, it’s because I realized what I have are two separate stories, one centered around the Foresters and Stalkers, and one centered around Rick Blaine. Rick’s storyline simply takes too long because it requires a goodly number of Stargate trips, which in the 4HU are 170 hours gate to gate plus the time to get from gate to planetary orbit. The Foresters are going to be in battle within three months of the events on Maquon.
What it really means is that you’re going to get two novels! When I finish them, of course. Updates on timing on those when I know more.
I’m going to leave you with a teaser. There are a number of things coming together in January that will be fun to announce.
And now, have a great week and a happy holiday season.
What I’m Listening To
Cygnus X-1 by Rush. I’ve been listening to Rush almost exclusively of late and probably will for a couple more weeks. I’ve set it to not shuffle, by the way, and I’m having fun listening to the albums in album order.
Quote of the Week
If you ever wondered, this is why my cars are always named Rocinante.
“I set a course just east of Lyra
And northwest of Pegasus
Flew into the light of Deneb
Sailed across the Milky Way
On my ship, the Rocinante
Wheeling through the galaxies,
Headed for the heart of Cygnus
Headlong into mystery”
– Rush, Cygnus X-1
News and Works in Progress
The Ravening of Wolves (27,982)
Rick Blaine (8,845)
CB (8,418)
Cynewulf (8,642)
Gato (2,312)
Recent Blog Posts and Wiki Additions
Not much this week except a bit of playing around on the wiki.
Upcoming Events
FantaSci, 19-21 March, Durham, NC
https://fantasci.rocks/
LibertyCon, 27-27 June, Chattanooga, TN
https://libertycon.org/
DragonCon, 2-6 September, Atlanta, GA
https://www.dragoncon.org/
New Releases
This week’s spotlight is on Barbara V. Evers, who is showing us all how to do a trilogy right. The first book in her trilogy,
, comes out today. I believe all three of the books are in the can and they’ll come out monthly. Not stupid slow, like the way I did it. Anyway, you can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08QRJTHHC.
Today’s Weight: 351.2
Updated Word Count: 262,221
Shijuren Wiki: 723 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.
Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Author of the Shijuren-series of novels
Website: www.robhowell.org
Blog: www.robhowell.org/blog
Shijuren Wiki: https://shijuren.org/tiki-index.php
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/robhowell.org/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rhodri2112
Currently Available Works
Shijuren
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
Silent Knight (Nick Patara, PI, Book 1)
Under a Midnight Clear (Nick Patara, PI, Book 2) (Forthcoming)
Four Horsemen Universe
“Where Enemies Sit” in For a Few Credits More (Revelations Cycle, Book 7))
“A Sword for Striking” in Luck Is Not a Factor (Four Horsemen Tales, Book 6)
Fire From Fire Quickened” in The Gates of Hell (Four Horsemen Saga, Book 4)
The Feeding of Sorrows (Four Horsemen Tales, Book 11)
The Phases of Mars
“Far Better to Dare” in Those In Peril
“In Dark’ning Storms” in To Slip the Surly Bonds
“Here Must We Hold” in Trouble in the Wind
Short Stories
“A Gift of Crimson” in Hand of Gold and Other Stories (Pussy Katnip)
“The Chaos of Well-Seeming Forms” in We Dare
“Nor War’s Quick Fire” in We Dare II: Semper Paratus (Forthcoming, 2020)
If you think you received this email incorrectly or wish to be unsubscribed, please send an email to shijuren-owner@robhowell.org
