Rob Howell's Blog, page 6
May 9, 2024
Rob’s Update: Happy Mummy’s Day
Greetings all
RuriksagaThe Ruriksaga is out next Tuesday! And it’s up for pre-order now. You can get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D35XF4RJ.
This is a companion volume with a bunch of short stories I’ve written in the world, along with new maps, some historical documents, and, of course, the Ruriksaga, a poem describing the beginnings of Periaslavl.
It’s exciting for me if only because it’s what I want all authors to do. If I like a world, I want to see under the hood, and this is your chance.
This week I’ve been working on The Feasting of Vengeance. I’ve made good progress, though not great. In fact, this was one of the least productive weeks I’ve had in a long while. There are reasons, most notably having to put one of the kitties down, but it still meant four of the days were a complete washout and much taken from the others.
Hopefully, this week won’t be quite so cluttered with stuff, especially bad stuff.
Such is life as author. All that I can do is keep plugging away. I do anticipate some significant progress next week as created the best Save the Cat Beat Sheet I’ve ever done. There are a lot of chapters I know what to do with, which usually is what I need on a given day.
We had an interesting Monday with serious weather expected. We got lucky in Anthony as it went around us, and ever since it’s been beautiful. Yesterday, I went out to stare at the lake which helped greatly for the Save the Cat thing.
This weekend, of course, is Mother’s Day. Best wishes to all the mothers out there. Which reminds me, I need to buy some cards. Better go do that now…
What I’m Listening ToRoll the Bones by Rush. It’s my normal springtime turn the playlist to just Rush for several weeks time.
Quote of the WeekHappy Birthday to Howard Carter, born May 9th, 1874. I read something interesting lately that King Tut’s Curse might actually be a real thing. Someone found high radiation levels in the tomb, much too high and too localized to be normal. They’ve apparently found this in other Egyptian tombs.
They didn’t know about radioactivity per se, but t seems like the people who buried these mummies intentionally put rocks that caused sickness into these tombs. This might explain why Carter and others died of things like Hodgkin’s Disease. Fascinating if true, but I don’t have the link handy. Sorry about that.
Instead, you’ll just have to think about what it was like when they actually opened the door.
It was a sight surpassing all precedent, and one we never dreamed of seeing.
– Howard Carter
It’s back!!!! After way too long. You’ll start getting riddles again next week on my Patreon.
You can find it here: patreon.com/rhodri2112, along with a sample riddle.
First Line of Next Riddle:
I am the killer of worlds and keeper of trust
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 on May 14th!
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (6,799)Upcoming EventsLibertyCon, June 21-23, Chattanooga, TNlibertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!New Releases
This week we have Jo Boone’s The Celestial Sea, book 3 in her Combined Service series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D32JTRWS.
Your pre-release this week is Companion to Ghosts by Kacey Ezell and David Shadoin. More in the 4HU!!! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CWNTPW6N.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 368.8lbs
Updated Word Count: 96,328
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
May 2, 2024
Rob’s Update: The Ruriksaga
Greetings all
Paladins of ValorSo much going on at New Mythology Press right now. First, Paladins of Valor came out on the 19th Thanks to all who’ve already bought it and reviewed it. If you haven’t gotten it yet, get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
We have another release to talk about! On May 14th, we’re releasing Ruriksaga by yours truly.
This is a companion volume in the Firehall Sagas. What’s a companion volume, I hear you asking. Great question!
RuriksagaA companion volume is collection of cool things related to the universe. In this case, it’s six previously published short stories plus a brand new one. But wait, there’s more. There are also a variety of worldbuilding documents I created as part of building up the world of Eard including, shockingly enough, a poem I wrote called the Ruriksaga.
There are a whole bunch of hints of what’s coming there, including some really cool maps (Thanks Sean Stallings!). It’s a peak behind the curtain, including my commentary on some things. Basically, it’s a bunch of stuff I love to get from writers about series I can’t get enough of. I want to be the writer who matches the kind of writer I admire, so here’s stuff I like.
The Ruriksaga is out on May 14th, as I said!
I am back on the horse, so to speak. I’m fully recovered from both getting back from all the trips and cutting off caffeine for a time. I’m allowing myself a little caffeine again and, hey, it works again. Good thing because there’s lots to do.
I did a bunch of publicity stuff this week, along with making solid progress on The Feasting of Vengeance. You won’t really see it in the word count but I went ahead and did a Save the Cat beat sheet for it. Save the Cat has a basic outline format that occasionally gets me going, and to be honest, a challenge to The Feasting of Vengeance is both to conclude the trilogy while doing things I haven’t done yet.
Spoiler alert: The Save the Cat idea added some huge moments. You might say it went nuclear.
I also edited another scenario in Okkorim, which is now available for some Patreon subscribers (patreon.com/GaxxWorx).
Lots of fun stuff going on, too. Today is the 3rd birthday of the New Mythology Discord Channel. Send me an email if you’re interested in joining.
I’m also doing a couple cool things in Anthony. First, this weekend, on May the 4th, David Birdsall is coming in to run Star Wars RPG and the Outer Rim board game before we all go watch Star Wars: A New Hope at the 1936 movie theater here.
And on that now, I’ll bid you adieu. And, of course, May the 4th be with you!
What I’m Listening ToKashmir by Led Zeppelin. This might be my favorite Zeppelin song, though Ten Years Gone and Stairway to Heaven are right up there. This version is the Physical Graffiti original release, but the best version in my mind is the Page and Plant release with doumbeks and bunch of other things thrown it.
Quote of the WeekI’ve become more and more of a fan of the Rock over the years. A bunch of that is him bringing back the XFL (now UFL) since I’m a fan of the St. Louis Battlehawks.
Anyway, his story is pretty interesting and this is a quote that’s relevant to writing, especially writing a novel. Also, happy birthday.
I’ve learned over the years that when it comes to success, consistency is key. Consistent hard work that we may not like doing today, but for a payoff we’ll love tomorrow. Earn it. Enjoy it.
– Dwayne Johnson
Come by on Saturday for Star Wars gaming! May the 4th be with you.
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 on May 14th!
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (5,121)Upcoming EventsLibertyCon, June 21-23, Chattanooga, TNlibertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!New Releases
Your release this week is The King’s Daughter by Kacey Ezell and Chris Kennedy is out! This is book 2 in the Ashes of Entecea series which is going to be our next big shared world, I think. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D2JYKN61.
Paladins of Valor is out! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
Your pre-release this week is Jo Boone’s The Celestial Sea, book 3 in her Combined Service series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D32JTRWS.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 371.2lbs
Updated Word Count: 95,630
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
April 25, 2024
Rob’s Update: Home Is The Hunter
Greetings all
I’m home from FantaSci! I even have an AAR: robhowell.org/blog/?p=3481.
The best part of FantaSci for me was to be with the portion of the tribe I’ve not had a chance to see since LibertyCon, really. That crew is awesome and it was just too long since I’d seen them.
Paladins of ValorThe Paladins of Valorrelease went very well! Thanks to all who’ve already bought it and reviewed it. If you haven’t gotten it yet, get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
At FantaSci, we announced this is the last of the Valor anthologies for the foreseeable future. They’ve been awesome, but it’s time for New Mythology to shift its focus.
Hence, we’re having an open call for longform stuff from June 1st to June 10th. Here are the details: chriskennedypublishing.com/2024/04/25/new-mythology-open-call/.
If you read the FantaSci AAR, you basically cover my week since the last update. I’ve been recovering the past two days, so I didn’t do much writing or editing. I did get a project done in Okkorim, however. You’ll get it soon if you’re in the GaxxWorx Patreon.
That being said, the last six weeks have been weak on the writing/editing side since I’ve been on the road so much. I actually had planned to go to Foolzcon this weekend, but I just don’t want to drive anywhere. In fact, I’m basically down to local stuff up until LibertyCon. I need the break.
There will be some fun doings here in Anthony, though. May 18th is BalloonFest, which should be awesome. I will have more to say on that in upcoming weeks. Also, David Birdsall is joining us to run some Star Wars game on May the 4th, then we watch Star Wars: A New Hope in the 1936 art deco theater here. Gonna be a great day.
And look here, I’m officially part of Harper County! I’m on the list of local authors at the Harper City Library: harper.scklslibrary.info/local-author-links/. Thanks to the folks at the library for doing that!
And with that, I’m off to start another project.
What I’m Listening ToIcarus Dream Suite 4 performed by Yngwie Malmsteen. It’s basically Adagio in G Minor, and Yngwie is, above all else, a master at turning classical music into metal.
Quote of the WeekApril 25th is an interesting day for birthdays, including Oliver Cromwell, Guglielmo Marconi, Meadowlark Lemon, and Al Pacino. However, it’s also the birthday of La Marseillaise.
Aux armes, citoyens,
Formez vos bataillons,
Marchons, marchons !
Qu’un sang impur
Abreuve nos sillons
– La Marseillaise
I’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/.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsBalloonFest, May 18th, Anthony, KSanthonykansas.org/sunflower-balloonfestLibertyCon, June 21-23, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!New Releases
This week we have Never Again, the first book in Bill Fawcett’s new Blood and Armor series. I’m incredibly stoked to have Bill in the CKP crew. Get this one here: amazon.com/dp/B0CW18N86G.
Your pre-release this week is The King’s Daughter by Kacey Ezell and Chris Kennedy is out! This is book 2 in the Ashes of Entecea series which is going to be our next big shared world, I think. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D2JYKN61.
Paladins of Valor is out! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 374.8lbs
Updated Word Count: 94,803
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
FantaSci AAR
I have successfully returned from FantaSci and mostly recovered.
Actually, that’s not true. I’m not recovered. I’m also not recovered from GaryCon really. Frankly, I’m beat and FantaSci was a perfect example.
First, I had a great time, when I had the gumption. However, I just didn’t have enough to stay going late into the night as is my wont. I went to bed before 11 most nights, which meant I missed much of what I went to FantaSci for.
Of course, I didn’t really plan FantaSci well. In fact, I didn’t do anything right. Here’s a lesson, kids. When you go to a con, pre-register, register for a hotel room, and send a message to the programming folks. I didn’t do any of that. Fortunately, thanks to a variety of people, things worked out great, but I completely dropped the ball.
I rode out with David Birdsall, who is in Paladins of Valor. He’s new to the author business and I was pleased to see him get some great experience at the con.
We got out to the hotel Thursday afternoon. A bunch of us went to dinner and I finally had a chance to hang out with Chris for the first time in a while. Then came the only night I stayed awake for any length of time. I had a good time, even finally getting a chance to chat with Kevin J. Anderson. We talked Rush and IPAs, two thing we’re both fans of.
Friday morning I completed the New Mythology portion of the CKP presentation. Then I rested until my first panel.
Sharp readers will have caught that I didn’t register for panels, but Chris got overbooked so I took two of his. Plus, there was the CKP Year Ahead, What’s Happening in the 4HU, and the Paladins of Valor release panel so I ended up speaking in five, which is about right.
Anyway, the first panel I was on was “Hey, Do You Remember When?” This panel talked about older TV shows, and ended being a fun reminiscence of our favorite cool things about a number of great shows. If a panel isn’t necessarily about how to be a writer, it should be this sort of thing that celebrates what’s great in SF/F. A really fun time.
My next panel was “Is The Book Always Better?” Obviously, the answer to this is, “No, the movie is sometimes better.” To me, the book is usually better but there are times, usually revolving around some aspect of the cinematography or, more often, a truly memorable performance, like those in The Princess Bride. Rarely, as in The 13th Warrior, is the movie simply better than the book all around.
The last panel of the day was the CKP Year Ahead. Here we talked about a number of things, including the news that I’m opening things up for more novel/trilogy submissions from June 1-10th. More details at chriskennedypublishing.com/2024/04/25/new-mythology-open-call/.
Saturday was mostly centered around selling at the author’s alley, which is graciously provided by the con. During this, I popped in to talk about The Feasting of Vengeance, the conclusion to the Foresters story. I swear I’ll have it done in the fall.
Then came the Paladins of Valor release panel. We had David Birdsall, Edie Skye, Jon R. Osborne, Hailey Gregor, David Shadoin, and Nathan Balyeat there.
Not present, sadly, was Dave Butler, but Chris DeBoe had brought some giveaway copies In the Palace of Shadow and Joy, the first Indrajit and Fix novel. Indrajit and Fix are the only characters to have appeared in all 7 anthologies thus far put out by New Mythology Press. Dave’s a delight to work for, so it was awesome we could give out some of his books.
Anyway, we announced that, for now, this was the last Valor anthology. We’ve had a fantastic run, achieved all my goals, and I’m really proud of what we did. However, both Chris and I want to focus on longer form stuff. With the hiatus in FantaSci, which was announced by the con at closing ceremonies, it seems a good time to turn our attention away from the Valor anthologies.
Does this mean New Mythology won’t do anthologies in the future? Not at all, just that we’re aiming more at getting novels on the release schedule in 2025 and going forward.
I spent the rest of the day socializing as much as I could, but I just didn’t have a ton of energy and went to bed 11ish.
Sunday was another stint on the author’s alley, then I got to do something I’ve wanted to do for a while: visit Baen Headquarters. It’s a really neat place. A dangerous place for someone who loves SF/F. Thanks to Jason Cordova for the invite and the care package!
After that, I had lunch with my aunt. It was great to see her, but it was tough because it’s the first time I’ve seen her since my uncle passed away. I’d like to see her more often, but North Carolina is a hike.
Finally, I spent the evening hanging out with folks in the lobby. It was a relaxing, fun time to just chat. I’ve said it before, the best time of cons is the night before things start and the night of the dead dog. These are the times where the pressure of going hither and yon are gone, so you just chat. And plot. Great stuff.
On Monday at 4:45am, David and I got back on the road. By leaving that early, we missed traffic in Louisville and most of the traffic in St. Louis. I dropped him off at 5:30pm. I anticipated getting a hotel along the way, or at least getting power naps, but David drove across most of Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois, so I was far fresher than normal.
I made it home late Monday/early Tuesday and here on Thursday I’m starting to get back into the groove. Despite the fatigue, I’m always more enthused and excited about work after spending time with Chris.
Anyway, there’s my FantaSci AAR. Time to get writing.
April 18, 2024
Rob’s Update: Laying On Hands
Greetings all
I’m at FantaSci!!!
Paladins Table of ContentsIt’s been a long time since I’ve been with this tribe. Not since LibertyCon, so nigh unto 10 months. I’ve really missed these folk and been looking forward to getting here.
Of course, you can lay your hands on (see what I did there) Paladins of Valor tomorrow! Check out the awesome art and the amazing list of authors in the Table of Contents. It’s really awesome.
Pre-order it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
One of the people I’m most looking forward to seeing is Chris Kennedy. He’s made all this happen and it’s too long since I bought him a beverage.
Most of this week has been about logistics, both getting to the event (which is a decent drive) or things for the store, but I did get a really cool thing written for Okkorim over the weekend. As usual, I can’t talk details, but I can say it’ll be one of the ways innovative DMs will make Okkorim their own.
I’m sure I have more to say, but I’m at a con and I’m getting distracted. Shocking, I now. Catch you all next week!
What I’m Listening ToThe sound of friends chatting in the hotel lobby. Pretty darn awesome.
Quote of the WeekOn this day in 1943, the plane holding Isoruku Yamamoto was shot down. You’ve probably heard the famous quote by him, but here’s another along the same vein.
“A military man can scarcely pride himself on having smitten a sleeping enemy; it is more a matter of shame, simply, for the one smitten.”
– Isoroku Yamamoto
Paladins Table of ContentsIt’s live tomorrow here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/!!!
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsFantaSci, April 19-21, Durham, NCfantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, June 21-23, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/ChattaCon, January 17-19, Chattanooga, TN
chattacon.org/
I’m the Toastmaster!New Releases
This week’s release is Prince Dominator, the eighth book in Fred Hughes’ Prince of Britannia series. Hazard has taken the Sol System… but will he be able to hold onto it while getting the information back to Britannia? Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D19WN6HN.
Your pre-release this week is Never Again is the first book in Bill Fawcett’s new Blood and Armor series. Bill Fawcett? THE Bill Fawcett who’s list of accomplishments in SF is a mile long? That one?
Yep, that’s the one. Get Never Again here: amazon.com/dp/B0CW18N86G.
And then, of course, there’s Paladins of Valor out tomorrow!
They defend the weak, no matter the time, place, or foe.
They stand up for others in the cold dark of space, the dusty Wild West, and lands of mystical empires.
They fight with any weapon that can help them save those behind them, whether it’s battlemechs, magic, swords, or even Sharps rifles. Along the way, they discover they can be more than they ever thought.
So come join us as we visit, in fourteen great stories, the worlds of Hanuvar, the Black Company, Kish, the Milesian Accords, and more great universes because there are always those who stand up for those who can’t.
We call them paladins.
Pre-order it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 369.6 lbs
Updated Word Count: 94,188
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
April 11, 2024
Rob’s Update: New Beginnings
Greetings all
It’s April 11th, which is sort of a personal holiday for me. In 2011, we closed on the Olathe house on April 11th. In 2023, we closed on this old mortuary in Anthony.
Happy Closing Day to me!
Of course, it’s not just a day of new beginnings where we live, we’re only 8 days from the full release of Paladins of Valor at FantaSci. I hope to see a bunch of you there.
Paladins of ValorAs promised here’s the full list of stories and authors in Paladins of Valor, which is on pre-sale now here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
Preface by Rob HowellFamily Heirloom by Howard Andrew Jones (A Chronicles of Hanuvar Story)Paladins of the Unbroken Light by D.J. Butler (A Tales of Indrajit and Fix Story)High Water Mark by Chris HeplerThe Passing of the Mantle by David R. Birdsall (A Fractured Brotherhood Story)The Purloined Heart by Christopher G. Nuttall (A Schooled in Magic Story)Apprentice in Trouble by Chad Boyer (A Chronicles of the Dimensional Mage Story)SEALed With a Kiss by C.V. WalterRomancing Some Rock by Edie Skye (A Titan Mage Story)Space Mage Secrets by Daniel M. HoytThe Oaths That Bind by H.Y. Gregor and David Shadoin (A Milesian Accords Story)Valor’s Wirth by Jon R. Osborne (A Milesian Accords Story)Welcome to Detroit by Nathan Balyeat (A Powers of the Night Story)Those Who Went Before by Glen Cook (The Black Company on the Long Run)The Muses Darling by Sarah A. Hoyt (A Tale of The Muses Darling)What an amazing list! The Black Company. indrajit and Fix. Hanuvar. Titan Mage. Schooled in Magic. These are some of the best-selling universes in fantasy right now. Plus several worlds you’ll love and stories that stand on their own.
And did I mention not just one, but two Milesian Accords stories? Spoiler alert: Big doings in that universe over the next year!
This is surely the deepest list of authors ever for the Libri Valoris, and we’ve had a bunch of great authors take part.
It was a productive week reorganizing the shop. It’s a much different layout now, but with lots more books and shelf space. Plus I did a bunch of prepwork for a variety of things including heading out to North Carolina.
And with that, I’m going to go play with the grandbaby.
What I’m Listening ToWatching Sherlock with Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. I really enjoy both it and Elementary, which will always be connected in time and space to me.
Quote of the WeekKurt Vonnegut died seventeen years on April 11th. Such a creative mind.
Laughing is good exercise. It’s like jogging on the inside.
– Kurt Vonnegut
I’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.
Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Of note, this now includes our recent releases, so if you’re not sure what we’ve put out lately, you can go here and check.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (3,405)Upcoming EventsFantaSci, April 19-21, Durham, NCfantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, June 21-23, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/New Releases
This week we have Revelation, the third and final book in the Sol Saga series by James Fox. The revolution on Mars is gaining steam… at least until President Trent decides to break out the Rods from God! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CW6C4Y7D.
This week’s pre-release is Prince Dominator, the eighth book in Fred Hughes’ Prince of Britannia series. Hazard has taken the Sol System… but will he be able to hold onto it while getting the information back to Britannia? Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0D19WN6HN.
And then, of course, there’s Paladins of Valor!
They defend the weak, no matter the time, place, or foe.
They stand up for others in the cold dark of space, the dusty Wild West, and lands of mystical empires.
They fight with any weapon that can help them save those behind them, whether it’s battlemechs, magic, swords, or even Sharps rifles. Along the way, they discover they can be more than they ever thought.
So come join us as we visit, in fourteen great stories, the worlds of Hanuvar, the Black Company, Kish, the Milesian Accords, and more great universes because there are always those who stand up for those who can’t.
We call them paladins.
Pre-order it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
Your pre-release this week is PRERELEASE.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 367.2 lbs
Updated Word Count: 93,586
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
April 4, 2024
Rob’s Update: Paladins on the Horizon
Greetings all
Paladins of ValorWe have a bunch going on with Paladins of Valor right now! First, take a look at that amazing cover by J. Caleb Designs! He always seems to know what I want.
Next, it’s up for preorder! We don’t usually do this but we thought we’d try it out this time. Go to amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/ to preorder a copy now!
We’ll do a reveal of the Table of Contents next week so you can see all the authors and the universes you get to see again. There’s some awesome worlds in it!
I had somewhat of a surreal week in many good ways, but not necessarily the most productive. On the down side, I’m struggling to get back into the creative flow. Not surprising given the recent push, but still something I’ll fix next week.
Overall, though, it was a positive week. I’ll get to the surreal bits in a moment, but let’s start with some things I did get done.
We’ve had a bunch of great books come in and I’ve had to expand my bookshelves! I spent much of this week getting things re-arranged. I’m still a long way to go, and I know I’ve got another batch coming tomorrow.
I don’t entirely know what’s in that batch, but here’s what I can say. We now have a YA section! It’s not huge, but it’s not tiny either. We also have a western section! And our romance section grew a ton. Plus, I haven’t even had a chance to line up all the mysteries, as they forced me to rearrange everything!
Exciting times there.
I also did a bunch of fairly mundane catchup work. I finally sent some emails after GaryCon. I also cleaned up on some invoicing, both some to pay out and to pay in. Fortunately, lots more coming in. I also ordered a new laptop to replace the old soldier.
I expect I’ll have to start looking at going to Linux for all my systems. I hope Office 2010 can work smoothly on it. However, I refuse to go to Windows 11 with the massive amount of spyware you can’t opt out of. That’s a fall project, I think.
Anyway, time for the surreal and cool things!
First, the small one. I somehow ended up on the Anthony Chamber of Commerce board. Still not quite sure how that happened. Anyway, if you see me posting odd questions like, “What kind of cool things does your town do,” you’ll know why.
By the way, what kind of cool things does your town do?
The best for last, however, was Easter weekend with a 1-year-old grandbaby. We took her to her first easter egg hunt. The Kiwanis here sponsor one and it’s divided by age group. The 0-2 age group wasn’t entirely sure what was going on, but there were still a bunch of smiles.
What I’m Listening ToThe Raven by Alan Parsons Project. It’s part of their album Tales of Mystery and Imagination, and homage to Edgar Allan Poe. It’s a fun album for Poe fans, and I’m certainly one!
Quote of the WeekSince I already mentioned Poe, let’s have a quote.
“Lo! Death has reared himself a throne
In a strange city lying alone
Far down within the dim West,
Where the good and the bad and the worst and the best
Have gone to their eternal rest.”
– Edgar Allan Poe
I have a Patreon where I write Old English style riddles and provide snippets of my work. You can find it here: patreon.com/rhodri2112, along with a sample riddle.
I’m back, starting on April 11th! 2nd and 4th Monday of every month!
First Line of Next Riddle:
I am the killer of worlds And the keeper of trust.
Dragon’s TidingsLot’s of new books, as I already said. Plus blocks of the month, new fabric, and more!
Check out our class schedule:
reddragonquilts.com/calendar.htm
Paladins of Valor right now! Go to amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/ to preorder a copy now!
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (5,612)Upcoming EventsFantaSci, April 19-21, Durham, NCfantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, June 21-23, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/Freebies and Cool Stuff
FREEBIES
New ReleasesThis week we have Holy War, 10th book in P.A. Piatt’s Abner Fortis, ISMC series. Abner has made it a habit of jumping out of the frying pan into the fire, and then having to pull his troops back out of it again. This time, the Kuiper Knights are back, and it’s time to take them out. But Abner has a long history with them, and they don’t like him very much. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CZ7G7VYP.
You get two pre-releases this week! First is Revelation, the third and final book in the Sol Saga series by James Fox. The revolution on Mars is gaining steam… at least until President Trent decides to break out the Rods from God! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CW6C4Y7D.
And then, of course, there’s Paladins of Valor!
They defend the weak, no matter the time, place, or foe.
They stand up for others in the cold dark of space, the dusty Wild West, and lands of mystical empires.
They fight with any weapon that can help them save those behind them, whether it’s battlemechs, magic, swords, or even Sharps rifles. Along the way, they discover they can be more than they ever thought.
So come join us as we visit, in fourteen great stories, the worlds of Hanuvar, the Black Company, Kish, the Milesian Accords, and more great universes because there are always those who stand up for those who can’t.
We call them paladins.
Pre-order it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CY9T4DHG/.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 370.2lbs
Updated Word Count: 92,760
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
March 29, 2024
Rob’s Update: So Much GaryCon
Greetings all
It’s been an off-kilter week, but I expected it would be. What I didn’t expect was a laptop dying. It’s not a huge surprise. I’ve had it since 2016 and 7.5 years is yeoman’s work. I also didn’t have anything on the hard drive I don’t have elsewhere, and besides, I probably can salvage the drive.
In other words, no big deal, but a nuisance, and the main reason why I didn’t get this week’s email out on time. The other was fatigue.
GaryCon was excellent, and I have a full AAR here: robhowell.org/blog/?p=3457. But it was a long, exhausting trip. I achieved all my goals, but this week I’ve been paying the price.
Paladins of Valor is in the can. The ARC copies will go out in the next day or so. I’ll have a cover reveal next week. Spoiler alert: It’s really, really cool.
With that, I’m going to get back to catching up. Have a great week everyone!
What I’m Listening ToPrimus, Tommy the Cat. Primus is not a band I can listen to constantly. Les Claypool is just too much. Yet, Primus is a band I must listen to periodically because Les Claypool is just too much. If you know, you know.
Quote of the WeekOne nice thing about being a day late, I can celebrate Eric Idle’s birthday today! If you didn’t know already, I’m a huge Monty Python fan. Here’s a short and simple quote from him.
Life has a very simple plot: first you’re here and then you’re not.”
– Eric Idle
Rob’s RiddlesI have a Patreon where I write Old English style riddles and provide snippets of my work. You can find it here: patreon.com/rhodri2112, along with a sample riddle.
I’m back, starting on April 11th! 2nd and 4th Monday of every month!
First Line of Next Riddle:
I am the killer of worlds And the keeper of trust.
Dragon’s TidingsWe’re rearranging to get more space for books! We have a bunch more romance and westerns to fit in, plus even more mysteries.
And we have a new Young Adult section, which will be on sale during April.
Check out our class schedule:
reddragonquilts.com/calendar.htm
I’m pleased to announce the 2024 FantaSci Short Story Contest. Get the details here: chriskennedypublishing.com/2023/03/28/2024-fantasci-short-story-contest/.
Current Schedule of New Mythology Press
Paladins of Valor coming April 19th!
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (5,612)Upcoming EventsFantaSci, April 19-21, Durham, NCfantasci.rocks/Anthony Balloonfest, May 18th, Anthony, KSLibertyCon, June 21-23, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/Freebies and Cool Stuff
https://books.bookfunnel.com/free-sci-fi-fantasy-paranormal-march-april/jqt9z8aypr
The Queen’s Fixer, first of a brand new series by Kacey Ezell (along with Chris Kennedy) is out! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CYHB5QPB. I’ve seen some of what they’ve got planned in the Ashes of Entecea series, and it promises to be huge.
Your pre-release this week is Holy War, 10th book in P.A. Piatt’s Abner Fortis, ISMC series. Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CZ7G7VYP. Abner has made it a habit of jumping out of the frying pan into the fire, and then having to pull his troops back out of it again. This time, the Kuiper Knights are back, and it’s time to take them out. But Abner has a long history with them, and they don’t like him very much.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 371.2lbs
Updated Word Count: 91,338
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
March 25, 2024
GaryCon AAR
I’m home from an epic GaryCon!
For those who may not know, GaryCon is a large gaming convention in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin named after Gary Gygax, inventor of Dungeons & Dragons. It’s basically a megadungeon in its own right.
Players Handbook 1EIt started after the passing of Gary. His friends and family were all together and decided to play in his honor. Then they did a small con the following year. Then it grew, much like dragons.
I was there entirely thanks to the opportunities provided by Luke Gygax. I’ve spent the last few months helping in his Okkorim setting (which is already really cool and getting better all the time. Not only did I get the chance to play and schmooze, I also got to DM a couple of games, which is the first time I’ve done so at a con since the 90s. I’ve missed that quite a bit.
Anyway, let’s get into what all happened!
I originally planned to get there on Wednesday, but I’d heard there were some things going on during Tuesday, so I moved my plans up a day. It’s well I did, because not only did I get to hang out with some folks, I also got in an early game.
This game was with Stefan Pokorny and was one of the highlights of the week. He is the founder of Dwarven Forge, a company that makes terrain for RPGs. I’d seen it before but this was the first time I’d ever played a game with it. It’s really something cool.
Besides having a whole dungeon laid out, he had two special iconic pieces. One was the demon from the first edition Player’s Handbook (the one at the top). If you’ve been playing D&D for a while, you know this image well.
The more fun piece was doorway in the mouth. The one from Tomb of Horrors. Spoiler alert: This particular encounter has probably killed more player characters than any other single encounter in D&D. If it hasn’t, it’s close.
Tomb of HorrorsThe mouth here is… well… if you know you know.
And all of us knew. It was a door we could have gone through but because we knew, we went around it. Which of course was the wrong way to go. Brilliantly done by Stefan.
For the record, our reasoning was sound, if incorrect in this case.
Anyway, we had a great time, and then I had about a day and a half of schmoozing. The central bar at the Grand Lodge is a pretty nice place, along with several restaurants.
Thursday is when the con really started for me. At 8am, I ran A1: Sinister Sands, a low-level adventure in Okkorim. This group was cagey and also got lucky. It included a couple of players I’d met in the game with Stefan. In any case, they did a bunch right and managed to win in the end without too much stress, though there were a few moments where the dice failed them.
Once that was done, I had a race to run. Let me explain.
The Lodge at the Grand Geneva is a pretty neat place. Overall, the resort is huge, and the Lodge itself is massive. I discovered this at about 12:53pm on Thursday as I was hustling to get to my next game. The Forum hallway is over a quarter mile from Maple Lawn A, and that’s if you go straight to it instead of winding through the various corridors and stairs inside the hotel. I’ll know not to plan an event immediately after another separated by that much again.
My schedule at GaryCon included as many different game systems as I could fit in so I could get a taste, and this was one I was looking forward to. It’s called Fate of the Norns and it’s got a really neat mechanic. You have a certain number of runes, and these are all the things you can do. To move, you play a rune; to attack, to cast a spell, to do anything, you play a rune.
One challenge to Pathfinder 1E is there are so many different action types, you can sometimes lose track of what you can and can’t do. This system had none of that.
It had a number of neat twists, too, especially to someone like me who’s read so much of Norse, Celtic, and Anglo-Saxon cultures. It had a great flavor to me, but even without the flavor, having a physical token that shows how many more actions you have remaining was something I may add to my personal versions of D&D.
After that I went to the dealer’s room. It was right next to the game I’d just played, and I had a break anyway. I found all sorts of deals and brought back quite a bit at half off or used or whatever ever. This was great shopping! However, then I had to sherpa it all back to my car. Did I mention it was really, really far away from where most of my stuff was happening?
Anyway, I got dinner, then I went to one of the games I’d really been looking for. It was a D&D 2E Descent into Menzoberranzan. If you’re a D&D player, you know that name. I chose the samurai character since there wasn’t a paladin (and I’ve been reading Rob Hobart’s Japanese fantasy series).
It was a really fun adventure until the final battle. This was entirely due to the whims of fate, not anything the DM could control. I did what the Lawful Good samurai would do and jumped in to save a hostage. Then I missed a saving throw (by a lot) that basically took me out of the fight.
I’d do what I did again, as it exactly fit the character. Luck, good or ill, is part of the game. Overall, I hope I can play more with that DM.
I had a fun moment, though. I played a lot of 2E back in the 80s and 90s. We even played it at my first bachelor party (I’m such a wild, wild guy). I had so much of the Player’s Handbook and Dungeon Master’s Guide memorized.
That was 30 years ago, though. I figured I’d have huge problems remembering things and I did, until about 2 hours in. Then, suddenly, my brain shifted and I was rattling off spells like mad. That was so much fun, just having that mesh with the memories of games long past.
Anyway, I was exhausted and went back to my hotel. I stayed, by the way, at Timber Ridge, which is the waterpark resort hotel part of the overall resort that the Lodge was just a part of. It wasn’t ideal, and I doubt I’ll stay there next time, but there were advantages.
I started Friday off with my second running of Sinister Sands. This was a fun group in many ways, but they made a tactical decision that made it challenging for me. They were at the hideout of the bad guys and instead of scouting, sneaking, or even just attacking, they knocked on the door.
I’d considered a bunch of tactical setups. That wasn’t one of them. It ended up being a really tough fight for them, but they pushed through.
After that, I played in the Introduction to Castles and Crusades scenario. This is one of the games I’ve been intrigued by. In many ways, it’s simply D&D 1E, but there are some twists. Notably is the concept of primary stats. Many games have this concept, but C&C emphasizes it by making rolls involving these stats at, essentially, +6 as opposed to rolls against other stats. I like that quite a bit.
Next I went to probably my favorite game system of the week, Hyperborea. It, too, is a derivation of D&D 1E but with a bunch more flavor and revamped classes.
I played a runegraver, which is sort of a cleric but without healing spells. Basically, you get to cast all the support spells, plus a couple wizard spells, without having any slots aimed at cure wounds spells.
I like playing clerics, and Pathfinder 1E’s concept of spontaneously converting spells to cure spells so the cleric can take advantage of their versatile spell list is something I appreciate. The runegraver takes that another step by not even giving them the option.
The particular scenario we played was about as Norse as you can get. We were all vikings adventuring in Jotunheim. Again, this was right up my alley. I’m absolutely investigating this game system more.
Anyway, that was basically 11-12 hours of gaming and I was beat.
However, unlike Friday morning where my first game was noon, I was originally scheduled to get there 8am for another 12 hour set. Worse, game 1 was another Fate of the Norns scenario all the way in the Forum followed by a game in Maple Lawn A.
I couldn’t do it. I skipped out of the first one. There was literally the opportunity to schedule games nonstop, and I succumbed to the temptation. I missed some at the end because of simple fatigue. I apologize to those DMs I skipped out of, and I’ll plan better next year.
White Plume MountainHowever, the first game of Saturday was one I’d been looking forward to. It was a retouched version of an old adventure, White Plume Mountain.
I wanted to play in the module for its own sake, but I was also looking forward to playing with Brand, a great guy from Ealdormere. If there was any doubt we’d have fun gaming together, this game dispelled that, much like a high-level cleric with a zombie.
But to be honest, I was not as sharp as I’d been previously. I did not sleep well any night at the con, which is one reason I doubt I’ll stay at Timber Ridge again. I simply never could get comfortable.
In any case, I was slowed by fatigue. I popped in and out of activity whenever I could, but I walked out of it thinking about the 2 other scenarios I had scheduled with dread.
So I was smart. I went back to my hotel room for a nap and a shower, then came back for a real meal and to socialize as much as possible Saturday evening.
This was so much the smart move. I ended up sharing a table with the DM from the C&C game and we got to chat for a while.
I also got to unlock an achievement. For the first time ever, I met a Twitter friend I didn’t already know prior to Twitter in real life. Yodanno is one of my favorite follows there, posting all sorts of old school D&D stuff. He’s a good guy IRL and I’m really glad I got to finally meet him. I gave him a copy of A Lake Most Deep, too.
In fact, I took 20 copies of A Lake Most Deep to give away. I gave the last two to Yodanno and his friend who was really excited about the hardboiled private eye in medieval fantasy idea.
I wish I’d had more stamina, but around 10pm, I was running down. Plus, I’d realized I might be able to get on the road early enough to get home last night.
Sadly, this meant I missed Stefan’s Black Sabbath tribute party. I’d have had a blast, and if he does something like that next time, I’ll plan better.
I went because Luke gave me the opportunity and I could help out with Okkorim. However, I had other items on the agenda.
I believe the best writing these days is coming from publishers at the CKP range. We’re good, we’re professional, but we’re not locked down into the big corporate ways.
I believe the same is true for the game world. I’m not much of a fan of what WOTC is putting out. It’s bland, boring, and simple. It’s basically McDonald’s. Sure, every once in a while, you eat at a McDonald’s, but it’s not really something you get excited about.
But Frog God Games? Troll Lord Games? Goodman Games? All the others in that range? Great stuff. It’s innovative and aims at making it all cool and fun. You may or may not like their flavor, just as you may not like the flavor at certain restaurants, but they’re packed with spice and energy.
I went with the hope I could meet with these folks and get more opportunities to write and edit. I had a number of good conversations and hopefully, the follow up conversations will prove fruitful. I have really enjoyed working in Okkorim and maybe this grows into something more.
For now, though, I think it’s time for me to relax for the rest of the day. I made it home at 1am last night with no particular issues. In fact, right now, I’m as fresh as I could hope.
That’s partly because this was just a really good time for me. Nostalgia, professional advancement, new friends, and fun all wrapped into a great big package.
Basically, it was a grand adventure!
March 14, 2024
Rob’s Update: Who Doesn’t Like Pi?
Greetings all
Wow, what a great time at Planet Comicon! I did well, enjoyed myself, and came home exhausted. Much of this week has been recovering from the show.
Paladins of Valor is nigh unto in the can. Fourteen great stories, with paladins in space, the Wild West, Gettysburg, medieval fantasies, and much, much more.
Like last time, my favorite story is Sarah A. Hoyt’s Kit Marlowe, PI, story. Noir, fantasy, Shakespearean, and more rolled into one ball of awesome.
I’m turning my attention to GaryCon which is next week! How did that get here so quickly. I’ll be running 2 sessions of A1: Sinister Sands, a module set in Okkorim. I’ll also be playing as many different game systems as I can to get a feel for some of the new stuff out there. Also, I’ll be schmoozing.
To be honest, I’m unlikely to do a full update next week, if one at all. I’ll be going full tilt from Wednesday onward.
This weekend is St. Patrick’s Day. Did you know the first St. Patrick’s Day Parade on record was in 1601?
Bet you can’t guess where it was. Hint: It’s not Boston (their first one was 1737), New York (1856), or even Dublin.
Answer below in the place where I list my words completed for the year.
What I’m Watching and ListeningDeath in Paradise. It’s a fun, light-hearted British mystery. Light-hearted except for the fact that its homicides per 100k has got to be in the Midsomer Range.
Still, it’s quite fun. It’s a neat blend of British, Caribbean, and French themes.
Quote of the WeekWhat else could it be? Besides, who doesn’t want 100 pieces of pi? Or 100 places at least.
3.141592653589793238462643383279502884197169399375105820974944592307816406286208998628034825342117067
– First 100 digits of pi
Saturday is Worldwide Quilting Day!
Check out fabshopnet.com/event-toolkit-worldwide-quilting-day/ for a bunch of fun things happening!
Web orders on Saturday are 10% off!
Use code WWQD24 to get your discount from www.reddragonquilts.com.
Check out our class schedule:
reddragonquilts.com/calendar.htm
I have a Patreon where I write Old English style riddles and provide snippets of my work. You can find it here: patreon.com/rhodri2112, along with a sample riddle.
I’ve taken a hiatus with this since the move, but I’m going to start back up in April. I wrote the riddle at Planet Comicon, and it’s fun.
New Mythology Works in ProgressPaladins of Valor is out on April 19th!.
Rob’s Works in ProgressSowing Spring’s Wrath (3,213)The Feasting of Vengeance (5,612)Upcoming EventsGaryCon, March 21-24, Lake Geneva, WIgarycon.com/FantaSci, April 19-21, Durham, NC
fantasci.rocks/LibertyCon, June 21-23, Chattanooga, TN
libertycon.org/Pennsic War, July 26 – August 11, Slippery Rock, PA
pennsicwar.org/Freebies and Cool Stuff
FREE Fantasy & Sci-fi March – April
https://books.bookfunnel.com/free-sci-fi-fantasy-paranormal-march-april/jqt9z8aypr
https://storyoriginapp.com/swaps/2985fca0-d64c-11ee-9067-1371410d6d31
More from the amazing Melissa Olthoff this week with Companions in Chains from the 4HU! Get it here: amazon.com/dp/B0CW18Q45T.
Your pre-release this week is Mother Earth, the tenth book in The Last Marines series by William S. Frisbee, Jr. This is the last book in this arc and—while it isn’t the end for The Last Marines like it was for Caesar—it is the end until the next arc is written. Get it here: https://amazon.com/dp/B0CW18S2NS.
Tracked ItemsMy Weight Today: 370.0lbs
Updated Word Count: 82,830
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.Oh, and the answer? St. Augustine, FL hosted the first ever St. Patrick’s Day parade on record.Have a great week, everyone.
Rob Howell
Creator of the Firehall Sagas Universe
