Rob Howell's Blog, page 5
August 29, 2024
Rob’s Update: Short but Sweet
Greetings all
Obviously, this week wasn’t any shorter than any other, but it felt that way as I lost three whole days to health stuff. It’s nothing serious, and most of that reason is a standard checkup procedure to make sure I’ve got no unseen issues, it just takes time out of a week.
That being said, I was pretty productive this week. In The Feasting of Vengeance I pulled out some threads from the main document. This allows me to focus directly on those threads and take them basically to the end of Act II and into the final big battle. I haven’t calculated the total words over all three docs, but it’s thousands more on the total with a bunch of cleanup of dead brush. So major progress, IMHO.
Responsibility of the FleetDon’t forget, Responsibility of the Fleet by G. Scott Huggins, third in his Endless Ocean series, comes out in two weeks!
I’ve been working on a larger scale project in Okkorim, however, and I needed to get that finished. I uploaded it for the mechanic to make sure I got the game stuff right yesterday.
This particular chunk had been difficult as I hadn’t had a good way to create game rules without making some things out of balance. The mechanic (his name’s Zach by the way), gave me a thought and what had been a slog at the end of last week was a torrent this week. I wrote 5k just on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Of course, this is DragonCon weekend!
There are a bunch of CKP authors there. I’m sure I’m going to miss some, but I know Kacey Ezell, David Shadoin, Marisa Wolf, H.Y. Gregor, Trisha J. Wooldridge, Melissa Olthoff, and Jon R. Osborne all come to mind.
Also there are a bunch of CKP-adjacent authors such as Joelle Presby, Shami Stovall, and Lydia Sherrer.
In other words, if you want to talk to a bunch of cool authors, there’s little better chance than at DragonCon.
I can’ t go this, year, but I did have a consolation prize. Fred Hughes did an interview with me. I’m not sure when it’ll be released, though of course I’ll let you know. We recorded it yesterday and I think it went really well!
In any case, I think that’s all for now. I’m still fatigued from all the stuff earlier this week, so I’ll sign off. Have a great week everyone!
What I’m Listening ToSteeleye Span’s version of King Henry. Steeleye Span is really cool English band playing medieval and traditional music. Their Saucy Sailor is one of my top 20 songs of all time. While this isn’t to that level, it’s still one I listen to quite often.
Quote of the WeekHappy birthday to John Locke, born on this day in 1632. I’ve read, and admired, much of his writing, and I encourage people to take a look if they’re philosophically inclined, as I am.
“I have always thought the actions of men the best interpreters of their thoughts.”
― John Locke
Like challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
I am a thing of whimsy wildly careening
New Mythology Works in ProgressSo much happening!
Responsibility of the Fleet by G. Scott Huggins comes out September 13th.
Then a trilogy by H.Y. Gregor starting with Reka’s Grasp on October 18th with another November 22nd and the third on December 27th. This is set in Jon R. Osborne’s awesome Milesian Accords series.
And there’s more on the way. The open call from June is bearing fruit and I look forward to tell you of some awesome stuff from that.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of VengeanceUpcoming EventsChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/New Releases
Your pre-release this week is War Criminal, the 11th book in P.A. Piatt’s Abner Fortis, ISMC, series. For those who’ve been following the series (and if you haven’t, why not?), you can pretty much guess that good ol’ Abner will be up to his armpits in trouble as he and Jocko Bender go into the Free Sector to track down two of the war criminals behind the peace rally attack. Remember the world-killer bomb that disappeared? It’s back, too, and fully in play. Will Abner be able to recover it before it goes “boom?” You probably just answered that question wrong… but you’ll have to grab it to find out! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0DFFPZCFX.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 357.4lbs
Updated Word Count: 205,201
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
August 22, 2024
Rob’s Update: In the Grasp of Reka
Greetings all
It’s been a productive week here, though it went a little different than expected.
One thing that was expected is cleaning and organizing from Pennsic. I’ve made huge progress on all that, and by the end of next week, I hope it’ll all be put back into the trailer ready for the next event.
I had anticipated a sort of normal week where I work on a variety of projects, but one of those was Reka’s Grasp, a new series set in the Milesian Accords universe by H.Y. Gregor. The book was so good I couldn’t stop editing and I finished it in, if not record time, close to it.
Responsibility of the FleetI spent the evening cleaning up a bunch of stuff in The Feasting of Vengeance. It’s amazing what changing how you view a document changes how you edit it. In this case, I was what I call bediting, or reading it on my phone and making notes while in bed.
It may sound dumb, but it’s proven really effective for me. The small screen forces me to focus on the words more, and I see a ton I miss in any other setting.
Tomorrow, I’ll be sending out the ARC for Responsibility of the Fleet. If you’re on the NMP ARC team, keep an eye on your mailboxes.
If I’m announcing the ARC, that means we’re getting close to release! It comes out on September 13th. It’s the 3rd in G. Scott Huggins’ amazing Endless Ocean series.
I also edited a a new adventure in Okkorim coming from Kacey Ezell for Patreon subscribers called the Book of the Drowned. It’s a quick one, but fun and challenging. You can join the GaxxWorx Patreon here: patreon.com/GaxxWorx for all sorts of stuff in Okkorim that I’m helping to create!
So, while I spent more time with Reka’s Grasp than I expected, I ended up doing pretty good with other stuff too!
But I better get back to work.
What I’m Listening ToIf 6 Was 9. This isn’t Jimi Hendrix’s most popular song, but it’s one of my favs. Basically, it’s a small structure allowing him to riff, and I’m totally in favor of that.
Quote of the WeekHappy birthday to Dorothy Parker, born August 22, 1893. She’s one of the great quote machines of all time. Picking just one is tough, but I think you’ll like the one I chose.
If you have any young friends who aspire to become writers, the second-greatest favor you can do them is to present them with copies of The Elements of Style. The first-greatest, of course, is to shoot them now, while they’re happy.
– Dorothy Parker
Side note: I have extra copies of The Elements of Style available. Hit me up if you want one.
Rob’s RiddlesLike challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
I am a thing of whimsy wildly careening
Dragon’s TidingsThe circus is coming to town and we have tickets! The Culpepper & Merriweather Circus comes to Anthony on September 19th to Anthony. We have advance tickets at the store for $13 (adult) and $8 (child and senior).
New Mythology Works in ProgressLots coming soon!
Responsibility of the Throne comes out on September 13th.
Reka’s Grasp from H.Y. Gregor in the Milesian Accords universe in the middle of October.
And a bunch more after that! The schedule’s about to explode.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (44,326)Upcoming EventsChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TNchattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/New Releases
This week we have Salvage Race by David Alan Jones. Get more awesome action in the Salvage Title universe here: amazon.com/dp/B0DD4BFV6R.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 363.8lbs
Updated Word Count: 193,070
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
August 15, 2024
Rob’s Update: At the Vale of Roncevaux
Greetings all
I’m sadly not actually at the Vale of Roncevaux but it is the anniversary of the battle. I’d love to go visit the site of the battle someday, but for now, I’m home from Pennsic! Everything is dry! Despite the rain, I still had a great time and sold a bunch of books.
This has been a mostly non-productive week, as expected, at least in terms of writing. I’ve touched base on everything to keep going, and I’ll be doing a bunch of bediting this week.
I did start editing Reka’s Grasp this week. This will be the first of a new trilogy in Jon R. Osborne’s excellent Milesian Accords series. It’s by H.Y. Gregor and she’s bringing Russian myth and tradition into the world.
It’s a great addition to the universe and you’re going to love it.
Responsibility of the FleetSpeaking of cool new stuff, Responsibility of the Fleet is coming September 12th! This is book 3 in G. Scott Huggins’ innovative and fast-paced Endless Ocean series.
What I’m Listening To
Bohemian Rhapsody. Enough said.
Quote of the WeekIt’s Battle of Roncevaux day! Hence, we have to have a passage from the Chanson de Roland. My preferred translation, by the way, remains Dorothy L. Sayers despite the fact that it’s getting somewhat dated. She kept both meaning and poetry in her translation, something few can do.
Anyway, here’s Laisse 8.
The Emperor Charles is glad and full of cheer.
Cordova’s taken, the outer walls are pierced,
His catapults have cast the towers down sheer;
Rich booty’s gone to all his chevaliers,
Silver and gold and goodly battle-gear.
In all the city no paynim now appears [101-29]
Who is not slain or turned to Christian fear.
The Emperor sits in a great orchard near,
Having about him Roland and Olivere,
Samson the duke, and Anseis the fierce,
Geoffrey d’Anjou the King’s gonfalonier,
And Gerin too, and with him too Gerier;
And where these were was many another fere—
Full fifteen thousand of France the fair and dear.
Upon white carpets they sit, those noble peers,
For draughts and chess the chequer-boards are reared;
To entertain the elder lords revered;
Young bachelors disport with sword and spear.
Beneath a pine beside an eglantier
A faldstool stands all of the red gold clear;
Of fairest France there sits the king austere.
White are his locks, and silver is his beard,
His body noble, his countenance severe:
If any seek him, no need to say, “Lo, here!”
From off their steeds lit down the messengers,
Well did they greet him with shows of love sincere.
– Chanson de Roland, Laisse 8 (translation by Dorothy L. Sayers)
Like challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
I am first in the light Leading the memory
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (43,017)Upcoming EventsChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TNchattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/New Releases
This week we have Quaestor by Peter J. Aldin. This is the second book in his Outer Reaches series. It’s sort of a mil SF Judge Dredd story, and you can’t go wrong with that. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0DCF1Q235.
Your pre-release this week is Salvage Race by David Alan Jones. Get more awesome action in the Salvage Title universe here: amazon.com/dp/B0DD4BFV6R.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 361.8lbs (Pennsic was good for me!)
Updated Word Count: 165,488
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
August 8, 2024
Rob’s Update: After the Pennsic Floods
Greetings all
Pennsic 51I’m still at Pennsic, though I’ll hopefully be on the road back on Saturday. Hence, it’ll be a streamlined update once again.
Overall, it’s been a productive, but challenging war thanks to three of the hardest downpours I’ve seen here. Rain is a given at Pennsic, but it’s usually in steady amounts. We had three bursts that flooded the tent which simply overwhelmed my normal rain defenses.
This isn’t the horrible thing it might sound. It’s not my first rodeo and all my stuff was protected from the rain so I didn’t lose any stock. I’ll lose old rugs, but I actually anticipated this to be a rainy Pennsic so I brought the rugs I was contemplating getting rid of anyway. That’s the extent of my loss.
I will say it does make it harder. I had to spend time getting rid of water, and though I have a store shopvac and electricity, we took out a bunch of gallons of water. And of course the floor never really got completely dry.
But again, it wasn’t a huge thing. All my stuff is elevated, including my bed, so I slept great, especially during the steady rains normal to Pennsic. Such rains on canvas is incredibly soothing.
As I said, it was really productive too. I sold quite a bit and may exceed last year despite losing three prime sales days to rain. My partner, the potter, will likely do the same. We did see a major drop off in fiber arts stuffs (looms, thread, yarn), because those work better if I can display them outside on sunny days.
Responsibility of the FleetI will, as usual, make a profit after fees, insurance, inventory cost, helper fees, and travel costs. The amount of profit is yet to be known as I still have a day and a half of potential sales.
During the slow times, I wrote about 10k on The Ravening of Wolves, finally breaking the 40k mark and clearing a bunch of chaff too.
Also, Responsibility of the Fleet from G. Scott Huggins is now at the proofreader for the final editing pass. It’ll be out on September 12th.
I also started editing Reka’s Grasp, the next Milesian Accords novel, this one by H.Y. Gregor, which comes out in October. This will be the first of a separate trilogy in Jon R. Osborne’s best-selling universe, which is about to really explode even more than it already has.
Exciting stuff.
I also caught up on a bunch of editing in Okkorim, making progress in four projects over the last week.
Truly, Pennsic is one of my best times of the year for progressing. But for now, I must take care of the next customer.
What I’m Listening ToThe conversations of the marketplace.
Quote of the WeekHappy what would have been his 105th birthday to Dino di Laurentiis, producer of one of my favorite films and the author of a quote that inspires my writing.
The audience wants to be attracted not by the critics, but by a great story. You must deliver to the audience emotion – and when I say emotion, I mean suspense, drama, love.
– Dino De Laurentiis
Like challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
I am the killer of worlds and Keeper of trust
But wait, there’s more! You get new riddles on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday, but on the other Tuesdays, you get snippets of works in progress.
This week’s snippet is Chapter XX of WORKINPROGRESS.
Dragon’s TidingsBalloonFest on the 18th.
Also, check our website (www.reddragonquilts.com) for our May 30% off special!
New Mythology Works in ProgressI’m pleased to announce New Mythology’s open call for novels and series. Here are the details: chriskennedypublishing.com/2024/04/25/new-mythology-open-call/.
Paladins of Valor is out! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
The Ruriksaga is out! Get this one here: amazon.com/dp/B0D35XF4RJ.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (42,888)Upcoming EventsPennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PApennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Tracked Items
My Weight Today: 370lbs
Updated Word Count: 160,000
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
August 1, 2024
Rob’s Update: At Pennsic We Have Only Perfect Weather
Greetings all
I arrived in the area of Pennsic last week on Thursday evening and meant to give you an update. Then I passed out from fatigue. Then it was setup on Friday and things got away from me. My apologies for no update, but next year I’m just going to plan to skip it.
Now, however, I’ve been set up for a while, sales are happening, and the war is moving along. Here’s a picture of the booth.
Pennsic 51Once again, I’m blessed to share my space with Mistress Gwen of Lobster Rose pottery. You should check her stuff out at: facebook.com/LobsterRosePottery. She’s really talented and inventive.
It’s been a productive week otherwise, but to be honest, I have too many customers coming into the booth to get into detail.
Soooo… have a great week everyone!
What I’m Listening ToConversations in the merchant area around my booth. It’s such a normal, pleasant sound.
Quote of the WeekHappy birthday to David Gemmell, born on this day in 1948.
“Nothing of real worth can ever be bought. Love, friendship, honour, valour, respect. All these things have to be earned.”
– David Gemmell
Like challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
Query of today is Quite revolutionary
But wait, there’s more! You get new riddles on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday, but on the other Tuesdays, you get snippets of works in progress.
This week’s snippet is Chapter Two of The Feasting of Vengeance.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (36,901)Upcoming EventsPennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PApennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Tracked Items
My Weight Today: 370lbs
Updated Word Count: 160,000
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
July 18, 2024
Rob’s Update: Into The Future
Greetings all
It’s been a good week here, and one that marks the passage of time. First, thanks to all who reached out to wish me a happy birthday. I do appreciate you all.
I got quite a bit done this week, though it was one of those weeks where no plan survives contact with the enemy.
For example, I had someone weed-eating and they kicked up a rock through one of my car windows. It’s fixed now with nothing out of pocket, so no big deal, just one of those things. Of course, that happened Friday afternoon as the wife and I were about to get on the road to an SCA event. With help, we frantically switched cars and, really, it all ended up fine.
Still, it took time. In fact, there was a lot going on this weekend. Appointments most days this week of one sort or another. Stuff that had to get done, and it all went really smoothly, for which I’m grateful. Anthony’s a cool place, and if you need tires, Joe at Pronto Tires bends over backwards to help us.
I got a lot of writing and work done, probably the most in quite a while despite all that, but none of it is finished and at least one project needs to be. In fact, I’ll be finishing it after I send this out.
Speaking of finishing, have you gotten your copy of Bureau 42 yet? It’s the new Four Horsemen anthology and it came out Friday. I’m really pleased with what Dan and I did with our story in there, and it’s feeding straight into The Feasting of Vengeance.
I Smell a RatGet it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D96DN6BY.
I actually made significant progress on that, though the numbers won’t show it. One reason is that I miscounted about 1000 words, having accidentally duplicated them. Another is some editing and smoothing of earlier chapters to fit with later stuff. Still, I think I’ll hit 40k next week and still aiming for the end of August.
I finished Ted Lasso this week. What an amazing show, and honestly it’s better as a whole than even the individual clips I’d seen. It ties together so well across all three seasons, which I find impressive. Can’t recommend it enough.
I also did a bunch of work around the building to get ready for Pennsic. I leave Wednesday morning, which means I have lots to do before getting on the road. As usual, I’m looking forward to it. It’s a cool thing where I get to work all day and enjoy myself in the evenings. I enjoy the second more when I know I’ve earned it.
But that’s enough for this week’s update. I’m a year farther into the future and I’ve got stuff to do!
What I’m Listening ToOver the Hills and Far Away. Not the song by Led Zeppelin, though I love that too, but rather, it’s this one: sharpe.fandom.com/wiki/Over_the_Hills_and_Far_Away.
Raise your hands if you’re surprised I love the Sharpe novels by Bernard Cornwell and the BBC TV show with Sean Bean. Anyone? Bueller?
Quote of the WeekI’ve always been a wanderer, but not like this. Happy birthday to John Glenn, and thanks for being so curious.
“I suppose the one quality in an astronaut more powerful than any other is curiosity. They have to get some place nobody’s ever been.”
– John Glenn
Like challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
Great treasures I hold, Trading past for present
But wait, there’s more! You get new riddles on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday, but on the other Tuesdays, you get snippets of works in progress.
This week’s snippet is Chapter Two of The Feasting of Vengeance.
Dragon’s TidingsCheck our website next week. We have a cool special thing about to happen!
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (34,799)The Chivalric Orders (6,597)Upcoming EventsPennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PApennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/New Releases
This week we have Bureau 42, the new anthology in the Four Horsemen Universe. Lots of great action as the Peacemakers deal with a host of cold cases.
In my case, Dan Bridgwater and I wrote a story with Rick Blaine on the trail of Kukuluki. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t go smoothly!
Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D96DN6BY.
Your pre-release this week is more from Fred Hughes in his Prince of Britannia series. This book, number 9, is the conclusion of the first storyline! Get Prince Imperator here: amazon.com/dp/B0CYZ8Q92N.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 369.2lbs
Updated Word Count: 157,000
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
July 11, 2024
Rob’s Update: Bureau 42
Greetings all
The exciting news this week is Bureau 42, the new anthology in the Four Horsemen Universe. Lots of great action as the Peacemakers deal with a host of cold cases.
In my case, Dan Bridgwater and I wrote a story with Rick Blaine on the trail of Kukuluki. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t go smoothly!
Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D96DN6BY.
More news: I’m finished with the first pass of Responsibility of the Fleet, coming out on September 12th. Oh my goodness, the action in the second half of the story simply doesn’t let up. Great stuff!
I wrote a goodly amount this week, but to be honest, I got distracted by a story that has been pushing out of me for a while. Get the words on the page even if they’re not the ones you planned on.
Plus, I wrote I bunch of stuff for Okkorim this week, some of the most fun stuff I’ve ever created for a gaming world. I’m really excited about what it’ll turn out to be. Looks like I’m leveling up there as well.
We also made huge progress on my woodshop. I need to do work in it next week and you know what, I’ll be able to do so. Been a while since I could.
For now, have a great week everyone!
What I’m Listening ToTed Lasso. The wife and a friend are spending a lot of the week at a big weaving conference in Wichita, so I decided to get the trial period of Apple TV to watch a show I’ve been looking forward to seeing for a while: Ted Lasso.
I’m 7 episodes in and it’s as brilliant as I’ve heard. It’s got that balance of comedy and heartwrenching moments of the best M*A*S*H episodes. It’s that good.
Quote of the WeekHappy birthday to E.B. White, born on this day in 1899. I’m sure glad he was because Charlotte’s Web was one of my favorite books growing up.
Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder.
– E. B. White
Like challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
Over and under Upside and downside
But wait, there’s more! You get new riddles on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday, but on the other Tuesdays, you get snippets of works in progress.
This week’s snippet is Chapter Two of The Feasting of Vengeance.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (34,791)The Rattler Strikes (4,112)Upcoming EventsPennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PApennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/New Releases
This week’s pre-release is Bureau 42, the new anthology in the Four Horsemen Universe. Lots of great action as the Peacemakers deal with a host of cold cases.
In my case, Dan Bridgwater and I wrote a story with Rick Blaine on the trail of Kukuluki. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t go smoothly!
Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D96DN6BY.
This week we get more from John E. Siers in his excellent Lunar Free State series. I actually played a bit of hooky from reading fantasy to go through this series. In this one, Three Player Game, a new group of nations has joined the space race, and it’s going to upset the apple cart!. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D76SLN6B.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 368.2lbs
Updated Word Count: 155,000
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
July 4, 2024
Rob’s Update: When In The Course Of Human Events
Greetings all
Happy 4th of July to everyone! May you all have an excellent and safe holiday.
Anthony is fireworks mad, and they’ve been shooting them off for a week now. We get a nightly show out our windows, which is actually kinda neat. I like fireworks, and the SWMBO enjoys the lights, but the booms get to her. This means she gets to see them without all the sound.
I spent much of today setting up my woodshop (finally). It’s still a loooong way to go but progress is progress. In true American fashion, I have to run to the hardware store for specific parts.
Responsibility of the FleetI also made progress on Responsibility of the Fleet, by G. Scott Huggins. I’m chugging away and on the downward curve. I anticipate it’ll be back to Scott by the end of next week and then off to the editor after that.
The planned release date, by the way, is September 12th, and here’s the amazing cover by J. Caleb Designs.
This time, Responsibility faces demons at the end of the world. How can you not want to read that?
I made go progress on The Feasting of Vengeance too. Man, I love these characters. They, of course, hate me, given all the crap I put them through. Right now, Rhan’Kiial’Tala wouldn’t mind stomping me with his CASPer. I did the worst thing ever to him: he got a promotion.
I’m going through the open call submissions, though it’ll take time. I’ll keep everyone updated as I make decisions.
Speaking of open calls, CKP is having it’s own open calls for SF/space opera/mil SF novels and trilogies. Here are the details: chriskennedypublishing.com/ckp-open-submission-period/.
I also spent part of today writing out my plans for ChattaCon. In case you didn’t know, I’m the Toastmaster and man, am I excited about this honor. I hope everyone can come to ChattaCon in January. It’s the 50th one, after all.
Oh, and I’m cooking up something special for opening ceremonies. If you’re there, make a point of attending that for sure.
And with that, time to go enjoy the holiday! Have a great week, everyone.
What I’m Listening ToIf Eternity Should Fail, one of the many great songs by Iron Maiden off their album Book of Souls. Some Maiden fans will consider this heresy, but I think it’s one of the best things they’ve ever done.
Quote of the WeekCan I quote anything but the Declaration of Independence today? Here’s a passage I think is really important but which often gets glossed over.
“The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States.”
– Declaration of Independence
Like challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
Great treasures I hold, Trading past for present
But wait, there’s more! You get new riddles on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday, but on the other Tuesdays, you get snippets of works in progress.
This week’s snippet is Chapter Two of The Feasting of Vengeance.
New Mythology Works in ProgressResponsibility of the Fleet is the next release, but starting in October, you’re going to see the world of the Milesian Accords explode like the series of fireworks at the finale of the biggest fireworks display around. We’re very excited.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (33,245)Upcoming EventsPennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PApennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/New Releases
This week we have more from the amazing Bill Fawcett and Casey Moores. It’s No Further, book 3 in their Blood and Armor series. This series is rapidly becoming a favorite, and you’re not going to want to miss it! There’s a new player in the arena that wants to wipe out the Kurdish Republic, but the peshmerga aren’t going down without a fight! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/product/B0D842YY8L.
Your pre-release this week is more from John E. Siers in his excellent Lunar Free State series. I actually played a bit of hooky from reading fantasy to go through this series. In this one, Three Player Game, a new group of nations has joined the space race, and it’s going to upset the apple cart!. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D76SLN6B.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 369.6 lbs
Updated Word Count: 116,631
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
June 27, 2024
Rob’s Update: Home is Where the Heat Is
Greetings all
i’m home from LibertyCon. What a great time, as always. Here’s my full AAR if you’re interested: robhowell.org/blog/?p=3534. The TL:DR version is basically that there’s never enough time to properly wallow in the great adopted family there.
The big announcement I made there was an upcoming series from Aaron Rosenberg. This man is ridiculously talented and has proven it in universes such as Star Trek, Stargate Atlantis, and Warhammer 40k. Now he brings us his own series, the BEO Files. You’re going to love them when the come out in spring/early summer of 2025.
Lots of stuff is percolating in the Milesian Accords as well. Jon R. Osborne is not only adding to his main line that starts with A Reluctant Druid, he’s joined by H.Y. Gregor and David Shadoin to bring two more threads into the universe. After that, who knows?
I’m going through the submissions and by the end of the summer, I hope to have similar announcements. Exciting times.
I’ve not done much this week, but of course, that was to be expected since I was LibertyCon and the travel back was grueling. I did get some writing done at the con, but not as much as I’d like.
Then, of course, the drive took it out of me. I’m basically back in the saddle now, but I’ve learned not to push it.
Next week, however, promises to be pretty productive as we roll into July 4th weekend. It is, however, hot! Of course, it’s always hot this time of year in southern Kansas, so it’s to be expected. Home is definitely where the heat is.
Have a great week everyone!
What I’m Listening ToFreebird. Need I say more? I suppose I do, actually, as it’s a live version that I love. I think the Lynyrd Skynyrd concert I saw in 2019 is the last show I’ve caught. I’m glad I got to see them. Another bucket list item.
Quote of the WeekJune 27th is a bland day for birthdays, but a sad day for bassists as both John Entwhistle (2002) of the Who and Chris Squire (2015) of Yes died on this day. Two of the best to ever do it, and here’s a quote from one of these music legends.
“Being called a ‘music legend’ is a very funny thing. It’s nice to know that my work has been appreciated and that people have given me that status. On a personal level, however, I can’t think about it too much. It means a lot… but then it doesn’t.”
– Chris Squire
Like challenges? Think you’re smarter than me? Then see if you can answer my riddles!
You can find them by signing up for my Patreon here: patreon.com/rhodri2112. Not sure what I mean? Then check the sample riddle and see if you get the answer!
First Line of Current Riddle:
Great treasures I hold, Trading past for present
But wait, there’s more! You get new riddles on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday, but on the other Tuesdays, you get snippets of works in progress.
This week’s snippet is Chapter Two of The Feasting of Vengeance.
Dragon’s TidingsWe’ll be closed on July 4th but open on the 5th and 6th. Have a great holiday everyone!
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (29,799)Upcoming EventsPennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PApennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!LibertyCon, June 20-22, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/New Releases
This week we have the start of a new series, the Other Reaches, by A.J. Gordon and Peter J. Aldin. It’s entitled Iconic and you can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CW1HBPPS.
Your pre-release this week is more from the amazing Bill Fawcett and Casey Moores. It’s No Further, book 3 in their Blood and Armor series. This series is rapidly becoming one of my favorites, and you’re not going to want to miss it! There’s a new player in the arena that wants to wipe out the Kurdish Republic, but the peshmerga aren’t going down without a fight! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/product/B0D842YY8L.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 371.0lbs
Updated Word Count: 112,000
Firehall Sagas Archives: 758 entries
Let me know if you have any suggestions on the website, this email, or cool story ideas at rob@robhowell.org. Especially let me know of suggestions you have for the Spotlight section.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
LibertyCon 2024 AAR
Greetings all!
I’m home from LibertyCon. As usual, it was the best of cons. It’s home. My biggest issue with LibertyCon is that I don’t have anywhere near enough time to catch up with everyone.
Before I get into that, I have to touch on the one true negative. The Marriott hotel was awful. I have a list of things they did badly, but suffice to say this: don’t stay there unless you have to.
But that just makes LibertyCon shine all the more. Despite the fact I know I’ll have issues with the hotel, I will stay there next year because that’s where LibertyCon is. I will go wherever LibertyCon ends up, no matter what, because the people who are a part of it are brilliant.
Let’s start with staff. It is the most organized convention around thanks to all these folks. Part of this is because so many of them have been doing it for decades. Of course they’re going to do well. They’re smart, skilled, and experienced.
However, that’s a thing in and of itself. I’ve worked in a number of organizations over the years and I’ve never seen a crew have less turnover from burnout. That suggests to me that not only do they want and enjoy what they’re doing, they process is made as easy as possible for them by the organization. They also like each other.
I’ve not seen every organization in existence, so I can’t say the LIbertyCon crew is unique, but it is unique in my experience.
In any case, my con started with a bang! William Joseph Roberts (Hillbilly) invited me to participate in the “It Came from the Trailer Park” panel which includes authors who’ve contributed to these anthologies.
Now, let me tell you, I had a lot of fun writing my story in the first one of these, but honestly, it’s been even more fun joining in on these panels. They are always a hoot! I got to riff with the Phil, Jenny, and Hillbilly who run the project and with Ian, Christopher, and a bunch of others who contributed.
And the fans! This panel was centered around the panel asking questions about their particular cryptid or monster and how rednecks would fight them. I won’t say all of the answers started with, “First, you make a roux…” but people left the panel contemplating Mothman recipes. Like one does.
As an added bonus, somebody brought Hillbilly a candy bar, the Flaming Anus chocolate bar. He loves hot stuff, so this was excellent, and perfectly appropriate given that it came in an outhouse.
I thought it surprisingly bland. Others had other opinions. I think everyone should bring Jenny Wren one. She was… um… amazed by it. We’ll go with that.
Anyway, I then spent much of the early afternoon writing and making some preparations for the party before opening ceremonies.
Side note: Opening ceremonies this time was the smooooothest I can ever recall, thanks to the amazing Kacey Ezell.
Anyway, after that, I went to one of the best panels I’ve ever been on: Worldbuilding for Epic Fantasy. You know the old line that if you can’t figure out the mug at the poker table, then you’re it? Well, I sorta felt like that here. The rest of the panel was Tim Akers (amazing), Dave Butler (amazing), Howard Andrew Jones (amazing), and Jon R. Osborne (amazing). What a lineup!
One of my favorite parts came when we talked about our foundational process. Tim talked about his background in theology, so he starts with the cosmos. Howard’s a classicist, so he looks at classical sources. I’m a medievalist, so I look at medieval ones. Jon looks at mythologies and religions, but on a less grand scale than Tim, and then there’s Dave, who’s extremely philosophical as well as brilliant.
That panel was the first of a long stretch. I went from that panel to cover the New Mythology portion of the CKP Year Ahead. We had a great audience for that, including a number of new faces.
However, at the time that started, I was supposed to be in the Author’s Alley, so I immediately ran back up to the Author’s Alley to set up. I’d prepositioned tanks near the Fulda Gap… err… my books near the area, so it went fairly quickly. I then spent until 11pm chatting with folks and selling a few books. Author’s Alley is nice even without selling, by the way, but it’s a bit of an oasis for actual conversations at times.
In any case, as I was hosting a party, my room was on the party floor. That meant I could stroll down a couple of rooms for a beverage and a bit of hanging out, but that didn’t last too long.
Saturday started with the Guest of Honor Brunch banquet. I always really enjoy it because again, I get to have actual conversations with a fairly random group of folks. I had a great table, as usual, and we talked about a huge variety of things. I suggest it to most people as it’s really good networking.
After that I did a Costco run to get food for the party. Chris had gotten the beer already, so I got ice as well. By 3pm, I’d basically laid out everything for the party that could be out of the refrigerator and arranged the room.
Then I was off to my reading alongside Dan Kemp. Neither of us expected anyone there as it was against the Baen Roadshow, but we actually had half a dozen. We both read from works in progress, mine being from The Feasting of Vengeance.
We had some time to chat after our readings before the panel ended, which was nice. I really enjoy chatting with Dan, who’s done a bunch of stuff in his life, but he’s often in a crowd so you don’t always get to hear him.
After that I rested for a bit, got dinner, and did the final preparations for our release party at 8pm. The party went great, I think. We were still going around 230am. I got about the right amount of food and drink. A little left over but not too much.
And there were chats! Lots and lots of chats. Good times for all of us, I think. If we hadn’t been on the party floor, I know we’d have gotten a noise complaint.
Side note: I really like how they do parties at LibertyCon. They put them all on the 3rd floor, which has only one wing of rooms. So it’s all concentrated there and can spill out into the hallway without issue. No noise complaint stuff either, plus there’s a bathroom in that hall to add to those in the rooms. Really, it’s nice just knowing that if you go onto 3rd after 8ish, you’ll find folks to hang out with.
Sunday was a slooooowwww day. I was supposed to go to the Kaffeeklatsch at 10am, but even though I kicked everyone out by 230am, I didn’t actually get to sleep until something like 5. Instead I rested and puttered. I did my book signing at 2pm, then put stuff in the car. By 6pm, I was at Rodizio Brazilian Steakhouse with a crew having gotten nearly everything packed.
Then there was the Dead Dog party. This is always delightful, as it’s a chance for people to hang out again. For myself, I played a game of Munchkin with Brandy Hendren (con chair) and Matthew Fanny (who runs registration). I won and got to preen. Great time.
I think it’s interesting to note just how many people were there on Thursday and Sunday nights. These bookend nights aren’t needed to participate in the con, but they are brilliant opportunities to be with friends and this adopted family. It’s such a credit to the LibertyCon folks that there were literally hundreds of people on both nights choosing (in many cases, eagerly) to spend $100s in order to be a part of it.
And as I look back at this AAR, what jumps out to me is just how awesome it is to be in this crew. I never see everyone. In fact, I know Sarah and Daniel Hoyt were at LibertyCon but I literally never saw them. Not even in passing. Talk about ghosts in the night. Maybe Sarah needs to add LibertyCon to her list of places in the Tales of the Muses Darling series. Either way, this place is about awesome people.
Monday I drove home. It took a while. I took breaks. I got home eventually. That’s about all I can say, though I did enjoy listening to Path of the Fury by David Weber again. I always find that book funny because the tactical commander for the bad guys is named Howell and the main bad guy’s name is the same as someone who totally had spanking rights when I was young. I’ll not say the name, as I don’t want to ruin the mystery, but yeah, it’s an ironic connection. I would’ve liked that book anyway without that ironic connection, but more is more!
And with that, another LibertyCon is in the books. I’ve already committed to running a party at LibertyCon 2025.
See you there!
