David Michael Williams's Blog: One Million Words (or less), page 5

The stories behind the stories

So many darlings. So many deaths.

In all seriousness, I finally whittled down my stack of short stories to be included in my upcoming collection, and I couldn’t have done it without the help of my ruthless beta readers.

Not only have I chosen the 13 tales, but also I’ve decided the order in which they will appear, an agonizing exercise in its own right!

Considering that the ideas for some of these stories stretch back more than a decade, it feels good to see publication on the horizon. Without further ado, here is what will appear in Ghost Mode & Other Strange Stories, slated for summer 2021—along with a little bit of history:

Ghost ModeWorking title: “The Villain”Genre: science fictionInitial idea: 8/1/08First draft: 6/27/13

Excerpt from earliest notes:

Reality TV has evolved to the point where most people continually record (and broadcast) their day-to-day dealings; hoping to boost his hit count, one man hires Villain to add some excitement to his otherwise droll existence.

Fun fact:

The intro of this story earned the most votes in the “Choose Your Own Adventure” blog post I published several years ago.

Anthropology in ApogeeWorking title: “The Anthropologist”Genre: science fictionInitial idea: 3/6/13First draft: 10/13/20

Excerpt from earliest notes:

An anthropologist prepares for her voyage to a new world… Ever since the aliens were spotted by scouting drones, she has made the study of this planet her single-minded pursuit. She isn’t coupled, and her living relatives have long since departed to any number of colonies. To top it off, she is considered almost freakishly short by her own kind, which means she won’t tower quite so much over the aliens (of Earth) once she arrives.

Fun fact:

This is my first piece of fiction to feature aliens since I typed up a short story about an extraterrestrial with an unpronounceable name on an Apple II computer in fifth grade.

GamechangerWorking title: “Game Changer”Genre: YA fantasyInitial idea: 2/4/20First draft: 2/11/20

Excerpt from earliest notes:

Five leading characters seems too much for a short story, so it probably would be best not to include all members of Good Company. A prequel that includes Asher, Lorenzo, and Mak could work. I think it’s probably best to let Asher be the POV character, since he gets shortchanged on “screen time” in the book.

Fun fact:

This story can serve as an appetizer—a prequel to The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot—or a satisfying second course for those who have already read the book.

Flesh & BloodWorking title: “Killers”Genre: thrillerInitial idea: 4/16/17First draft: 10/20/20

Excerpt from earliest notes:

…a cabal of assassins find their numbers being thinned, and they don’t know why. It’s a smallish group, so when the first member goes missing—and is presumed dead—they have plenty of theories. Since his meetup was scheduled at a church, one member even jokes that maybe he found religion.

Fun fact:

I had this idea well before I ever read 100 Bullets, but finishing that series of graphic novels motivated me to finally write it.

UnparalleledWorking title: “Unparalleled”Genre: science fictionInitial idea: 9/18/20First draft: 11/24/20

Excerpt from earliest notes:

REDACTED TO PREVENT SPOILERS

Fun fact:

The antagonist in this book is an homage to the leader of a criminal enterprise I came up with in the early ’90s, back when my earliest stories starred G.I. Joe and Cobra rip-offs.

ReputationWorking title: “A Tall Tale of Altaerra”Genre: sword-and-sorcery fantasyInitial idea: 2/4/20First draft: 4/21/20

Excerpt from earliest notes:

A crazy Noel adventure (maybe the astonishing reason he ended up in Capricon) … I imagine there could be a lot of fun using expanded cast members and “midge logic” to show how and why Noel received a message from the gods to go to the island.

Fun fact:

While the point-of-view character in this story is mentioned only obliquely in The Renegade Chronicles, he nevertheless plays an important role in the future of Capricon.

CaptiveWorking title: “Captive”Genre: sci-fi/suspenseInitial idea: 11/12/15First draft: 11/17/20

Excerpt from earliest notes:

REDACTED TO PREVENT SPOILERS

Fun fact:

I really geeked out on researching recent history while writing this short, self-contained tale that could almost be categorized as dreampunk.

The FixWorking title: “Hearts and Minds”Genre: science fictionInitial idea: 3/27/18First draft: 6/12/18

Excerpt from earliest notes:

While I cannot remember the train of thought that deposited me at this destination, whatever the route, I ended up here: What if a psychotic person and a neurotic person fell in love?

Fun fact:

Nearly every beta reader has expressed interest in revisiting these characters, and every time I find myself wondering what I’ll write next, a novel about Nic and Bettie pops up as a serious contender.

The Lake RoadWorking title: “The Lake Road”Genre: paranormalInitial idea: 9/24/10First draft: 9/24/10

Excerpt from earliest notes:

NONE

Fun fact:

This author once commuted on this very stretch of highway. Whether the story was inspired by actual events remains unrevealed.

Suspect 814553Working title: “The Liar”Genre: science fictionInitial idea: 7/22/14 First draft: 11/3/20

Excerpt from earliest notes:

Following the Information Age is an era where truth is fiercely governed.  The Internet (or, rather, what it becomes) is the source of all truth, and those who wish to fight against the draconian regime hack into the archives and plant small (and often insignificant) fabrications.  In this world, perhaps the greatest criminal of all is one who writes fiction.

Fun fact:

This might be the scariest thing I’ve ever written.

DriftersWorking title: “Allison Meets Milton”Genre: dreampunkInitial idea: 8/23/12First draft: 9/16/12

Excerpt from earliest notes:

… writing a prequel scene would give me the chance—no, would force me—to make some concrete decisions about Project Valhalla, Milton, and Allison.

Fun fact:

For fans of The Soul Sleep Cycle, this fills in a few blanks in the series, but the story also serves as an introduction to “dream drifting” for the uninitiated.

The Monster & The MirageWorking title: “Mother Magus”Genre: sword-and-sorcery fantasyInitial idea: 6/13/10First draft: 7/7/11

Excerpt from earliest notes:

…the first magi to settle in the desert were self-exiled. (In some cases, their only other option would have been to be burned at the stake in their native lands.) Tired of being oppressed throughout the savage, men-ruled realms, a few brave souls decided to build their own civilization. In the years that followed, others flocked to their cause. However, in order to enter the hidden city, the newcomers had to give up all memories of their earlier life, thus ensuring the truth would never unravel the happy illusion (mirage?) upon which the peaceful society was founded.

Fun fact:

This was my first successful attempt at writing a sword-and-sorcery fantasy story set outside of Altaerra.

The EndWorking title: “The End”Genre: fantasy/sci-fi mashupInitial idea: 5/27/09First draft: 10/27/20

Excerpt from earliest notes:

REDACTED TO PREVENT SPOILERS

Fun fact:

Beta readers disagreed whether this story has a happy ending or a tragic one.

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A bounty of books to behold

What does an author do when he isn’t writing? Read!

Confession: I don’t read as much as I used to. Back in the day, I could consume 100-plus pages a day without breaking a sweat (or spine). Of course, that was before kids, a career, and my own company.

Even when I’m up to my elbows in editing or pounding out new plots, I try to make time to see what else is out there—not only to bust out of my own creative bubble, but also because there’s some damn fine books being written.

So even though there have been a ton of titles languishing on my to-read list—sorry, Slaughterhouse-Five—there’s a slew of new(ish) works clamoring for my precious free time. Here are the works that will certainly force their way to the top of my pile in 2021:

Novels.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-1{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;} .fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}Charming

Another confession: I’ve already read this one—a draft of it, at least.

Christopher Whitmore is a Fond du Lac fantasy writer, fellow Allied Authors of Wisconsin member, and good friend. We routinely beta read each other’s work, so I had the privilege of diving into Charming months prior to its February release. I can’t wait to add an autographed copy to my shelf and make a return trip to Terram.

If you like madcap plots and larger-than-life characters, you might also dig this modern fairytale!

.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-2{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;} .fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}Hello, Transcriber

Dark, mysterious, intriguing—all these adjectives describe Hannah Morrissey’s debut novel, which is set in an apocryphal Wisconsin city. This woman has a way with words—judging from the chapters I’ve previewed at Allied Authors meetings—so I’m eager to get to know her protagonist Hazel better and see how she survives her descent into a world of drugs and deceit.

The bad news is I have to wait until Nov. 30 to get my hands on Hello, Transcriber. The good news is I’m beta reading her follow-up novel very soon!

.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-4{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-4{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-4{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-3{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}Dragons of Deceit

So what if the title is provisional and the release date of July 29 is only rumored. The fact remains that the first Dragonlance novel written by the original authors in more than a decade is officially happening!

I might have mentioned before how influential this series has been for me, both as a reader and a writer. Following a period of sword-and-sorcery burnout, I’ve recently enjoyed a rekindled interest in the fantasy genre, including Dungeons & Dragons, so the revelation that Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman are back at the helm of the this D&D-based franchise is medieval music to my ears.

If any book has the power to take me back to 100-plus pages a day, it’s this one.

.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-5{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-5{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-5{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-4{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}Graphic Novels.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-6{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-6{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-6{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}} .fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-7{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-7{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-7{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}Fire Power, Vol. 1

Truthfully, I know almost nothing about this one, but when I see Robert Kirkman’s name on the spine of a graphic novel, I can’t not give it a try. Kirkman is, after all, the author of one of my all-time favorite comic books.

(No, not The Walking Dead—Invincible!)

The first volume of this modern-day fantasy came out last year, but I’ve only just remembered to add it to my wish list, so maybe I’ll get the chance to be consumed by Fire Power this Father’s Day.

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Gideon Falls filled the dark fantasy/horror void left after finishing Locke & Key.

The latest trade paperback hit stores back in December, so I’m basically looking for any excuse to add it to my bookshelf.

Just as soon as my TBR pile shrinks a little more, of course.

.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-10{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-10 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-10{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-10 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-10{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-10 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}Saga, Vol. 10

It’s safe to say the Saga series is unlike any other work of fiction I’ve ever read. The sci-fi storylines somehow walk the fine line between absurdly silly and heartbreakingly serious. Imaginative, unpredictable, raw—Saga is one of two graphic novels I order as soon as it’s released. (The other is Monstress.)

Unfortunately, a new installment hasn’t come out since the creators went on hiatus in 2018. Even if the comic books start up again in 2021, it’ll be many more months before they are compiled into a collection. I might just be desperate enough to buy the individual issues at that point!

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I don’t often gravitate to nonfiction, but when I do, it tends to have an educational component. Such is the case with The Monsters Know What They’re Doing.

My thoughtful wife brought me this book for my birthday last year, and I continue to whittle away at the tutorial on Dungeons & Dragons tactics as time permits—all too aware that I have several D&D sourcebooks also waiting in the wings.

Why?

Remember back when I was preparing to play my first game and worried that if I ever took on the mantle of Dungeon Master, I’d enjoy it too much and, consequently, invest too much time writing my own campaigns?

I am indeed my own worst enemy.

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Yet another confession: when I bought this book about video game design as a Christmas present for my son, I already knew I was going to read it when he finished.

Creating a video game has been on my bucket list for years now. In fact, I hope to dedicate a fair chunk of 2022 to game making—either a low-fi indie title or some kind of piece of experimental, interactive fiction.

After finishing The Game Narrative Toolbox in 2020, I’m hoping this lighthearted approach to game philosophy will provide additional insights and reignite my excitement to embrace this unexplored medium.

.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-16{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-16 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-16{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-16 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-16{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-16 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}} .fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-17{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-17 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-17{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-17 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-17{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-17 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}Lovecraft: The Great Tales

Final confession: I haven’t read any literary criticism since college, and I can count the number of H.P. Lovecraft fiction collections I’ve read on one finger.

However, the couple of chapters I previewed and proofed for my friend John D. Haefele last year painted a fascinating portrait of an author I know precious little about. The excerpts from Lovecraft: The Great Tales also piqued my curiosity of how writers influence other writers and are themselves influenced in return.

The book was published in February, and I’m very much looking forward to adding an autographed copy to the Local Authors section of my bookcase.

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What titles have your inner bookworm squirming with glee? Let me know in the comments below!

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Which short stories will make the cut for my collection?

I’m starting to think there’s a fine line between an embarrassment of riches and ordinary, old embarrassment.

It’s not the first time I find myself debating quantity versus quality. And perhaps it’s only natural for a writer to second-guess his decisions when he’s preparing to publish and especially when he’s trying something outside his comfort zone.

Something new.

Eight years ago, I declared that anyone can write a short story (except me), exaggerating my circumstances at the time: I vastly favored longform fiction over its little siblings. However, while I still tend to think of narratives in terms of full-length novels and series, I find myself tinkering more and more with short stories.

On one hand, it can be incredibly cathartic to crank out a few thousand words of something completely new in between drafts, rounds of editing, and releases of books. On the other hand, ideas tend to pile up—particularly when one devotes decades to producing series—so exploring short stories allows an author to play with a character, theme, or plot twist without investing too much time.

Now I have more than enough to bundle together into a book of their own.

I expect I’m not the only writer with a smattering of short fiction varying in length, tone, and genre. Although some advise authors to stick to a prevailing theme and, if possible, limit a collection to a single genre, I plan to demonstrate the breath of my writing styles and embrace the many different spec-fic subgenres I enjoy.

Which only makes winnowing down the contenders for my short story collection that much more difficult.

The precious

A handful of the short stories are all but assured a spot in the collection:

‘Ghost Mode’

Genre: science fiction

Reasons to include:

I feel it’s a well-written story with a strong message and has garnered positive feedback in the past.“Ghost Mode” already appeared in a fantasy anthology and was a featured reading on the Story Tale Podcast.Because of its prior release, I already have an excellent image that could be used for the collection’s cover (see above).I even have a blurb for the story.‘Drifters’

Genre: dreampunk

Reasons to include:

This standalone story does a fine job of introducing the concept (and consequences) of dream drifting while filling in a gap or two from The Soul Sleep Cycle .Because “Drifters” features Allison and Milton, two characters in common with the aforementioned series, it can serve double duty in cross-promotion, driving readers of one work to the other.“Drifters” was selected for inclusion in a dreampunk anthology last year, suggesting the story has merit.I have the beginnings of a blurb.‘Gamechanger’

Genre: YA fantasy

Reasons to include:

It’s a lighthearted-yet-heartfelt tale that contrasts nicely with some of the darker/heavier topics broached in other stories.The story delves deeper into the larping world of Mezzo-Earth and serves as a standalone introduction to Mak/Brutus the Bullheaded in particular.Because “Gamechanger” stars three characters from The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot , it can attract fans of that book to this collection as well as tempt the readers of the short story to check out the novel.Since I’m planning to produce a tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) set in Mezzo-Earth, it wouldn’t hurt to have another piece of Larpsalot fiction in circulation.

(You can currently read “Gamechanger” for free here.)

‘Reputation’

Genre: sword-and-sorcery fantasy

Reasons to include:

With so much geography and so many characters crammed into my Altaerra setting, I feel like I finally wrote a story that introduces the world in a fun, bite-sized way.“Reputation” also features never-before-seen-on-the-page characters, including a Renegade Leader named Domacles Herronin, a rival who was only hinted at in The Renegade Chronicles .And, yes, there’s a benefit to including a new Altaerra story, not only to entice existing fans, but to nurture new fans of The Renegade Chronicles and Magic’s Daughter .Most importantly, “Reputation” stars everyone’s favorite midge, Noel!‘The Lake Road’

Genre: paranormal

Reasons to include:

I wrote this oddball story many years ago and have yet to find a good home for it—until now.I love how the plot pairs something mundane (a daily commute) with something much more profound (spiritual warfare).Despite the setup of fundamental Good versus Evil, there’s a fair amount of humor sprinkled throughout the tale.This is also the only story I’ve ever written about angels and demons. That novelty alone compels me to include it in this strange collection.The promising

These contenders have a lot of potential, and the odds are good they will make the cut, despite a few lingering concerns:

‘Going Viral’

Genre: soft sci-fi

Reasons to include:

This was perhaps the second short story I ever wrote that felt publishable to me, due to strong, stylistic prose and a few plot twists.“Going Viral” received an honorable mention in a writing contest.I have the beginnings of a blurb already written.

Reasons to leave out:

Because I wrote this so long ago, I worry that the message might not be as timely as it once was.Arguably, the stakes in this hacker-gets-hacked story could be higher.‘The Fix’

Genre: science fiction

Reasons to include:

I received very favorable feedback from beta readers on this story about a con artist whose latest prize could cause more problems than it’s worth.“The Fix” features two of unique characters—arguably some of the most complex and compelling I’ve ever conceived.I’ve toyed with the idea of writing a full-length work about Nic and Bettie, so introducing them in this collection could prove fortuitous.

Reasons to leave out:

Beta readers reported that “The Fix” feels like the first couple chapters of a novel, which makes me wonder if the ending is satisfying enough.This story contains the harshest language and grittiest narration I’ve ever written, and I wonder if the story’s R-rating would make it a poor companion to lighter fare like “Gamechanger” and “The Lake Road.”‘Anthropology in Apogee’

Genre: science fiction

Reasons to include:

A story about an anthropologist visiting Earth from another planet has been rattling around my gray matter for some time, and this version is far better than earlier attempts.Although there are other science fiction stories in the running for this collection, “Anthropology in Apogee” is the only one that features extraterrestrials.Hand in hand with my interest in this anthropologist character is a desire to someday write a postapocalyptic utopian novel about humans contending with benevolent overlords; this short story could lead nicely into that.

Reasons to leave out:

While the writing is strong, I worry that too much is left to reader interpretation; a heavy round of edits will be needed to make the alien protagonist more empathetic.Because I’m not well read in the science fiction genre, including other (classic) novels about alien invasions of Earth, it’s altogether possible I’m treading too-familiar ground here.‘Dead Magic’

Genre: contemporary fantasy

Reasons to include:

This story about a clandestine arrangement between an unscrupulous human and her faerie counterpart isn’t horror, but it’s arguably the creepiest of the lot.After spending a lot of time researching for a novel about changelings, I ultimately abandoned the project but still wanted to use what I learned somewhere.

Reasons to leave out:

I still need beta reader feedback on this one before deciding whether transforming the rough draft into something better would be time well spent.‘Epiphany’

Genre: superhero

Reasons to include:

Insistent ideas for this story kept me from sleeping one night, so I got out of bed and hammered out a first draft. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever written, and I think there’s a lot of potential.Even if I never write a full-blown book or video game about superpowered heroes, I like the idea of exploring the subgenre in this collection.

Reasons to leave out:

Early feedback on “Epiphany” was mixed, and my biggest fear is that it feels more like the beginning of a larger work than a satisfying, self-contained tale.The precarious

Welcome to the chopping block…

‘The Monster & The Mirage’

Genre: sword-and-sorcery fantasy

Reasons to include:

I haven’t written too many fantasy stories outside of Altaerra, and this early attempt led me down an interesting (desert) path.Exploring concurrent events from two disparate characters’ points of view keeps the reader guessing at motivations up until the very end.

Reasons to leave out:

Because this started out as the opening to a potentially larger work, I’m concerned that the ending comes off as too inconclusive.At 10,000 plus words, this would be a considerably longer read than any other story in the collection.‘Flesh and Blood’

Genre: thriller

Reasons to include:

This tense, action-packed story about hired killers getting snuffed out one by one includes a surprising amount of depth.A collection that includes a story about angels and a story about assassins? What variety!

Reasons to leave out:

If included, “Flesh and Blood” would be the only story lacking a supernatural component, which might seem strange for a collection billed under the speculative-fiction banner.Though yet to be beta read, I already fear the story might prove too complex—or even convoluted—for so small a wordcount.‘The End’

Genre: fantasy/sci-fi mashup

Reasons to include:

I always have a blast playing with genre tropes and preconceived notions; “The End” is no exception.Unlike several other short stories that started out as bigger ideas, this one has always been no longer or shorter than its current incarnation; in short, it works well as a short story.

Reasons to leave out:

Until I get some beta readers on this, I can’t be sure the genre-bending and surprise-twist aspects of “The End” actually work.So many of my stories seem to have sad endings. Maybe this would add one tragedy too many?‘The Suspect’

Genre: dystopian sci-fi

Reasons to include:

The reader has to do a lot of reading between the lines in this story about a rogue writer being prosecuted for his crimes, adding some interesting facets to what could have ended up being a typical cautionary tale.The enigmatic POV character—I hesitate to label her a protagonist—is what really sells this story, I think.

Reasons to leave out:

While I don’t shy away from writing about different kinds of people and viewpoints, I seldom focus on politics. I could see “The Suspect” potentially offending everybody.I’m not in love with the title.‘Captive’

Genre: soft sci-fi

Reasons to include:

Some of my favorite things to read and write focus on the nature of reality. Enter the unreliable narrator of “Captive.”The futuristic science in this story plays second fiddle to a greater, more immediate concern, adding layers to a seemingly simple story.

Reasons to leave out:

Here’s another tale with a less-than-happy ending.The verdict is still out from beta readers as to whether the concept works as a story.‘Unparalleled’

Genre: science fiction

Reasons to include:

While I strive to keep relatable issues and struggles central to all of my speculative fiction, this story in particular focuses on the human condition and the struggle to reach one’s full potential.A long time ago—before I started writing fantasy stories in Altaerra—I focused on soldiers and superheroes set in modern-day Earth; the protagonist (and antagonist) of this story pays homage to my very first “alternate reality.”

Reasons to leave out:

The first draft is rather rough, requiring an extra dose of motivation to make a second pass.Perhaps parallel universes are played out as a sci-fi device?‘School Spirit’

Genre: paranormal

Reasons to include:

I believe a certain set of readers will find something relatable and, hopefully, helpful in the main character’s sad high-school circumstances.Despite a supernatural spin, “School Spirit” offers a down-to-earth lens that could counterbalance some of the more fantastic elements in the other stories.

Reasons to leave out:

Because it started as a flash fiction exercise, it’s significantly shorter than any other piece under consideration.Despite a major shift in tone, some of the themes and even the setup of “School Spirit” tie closely—too closely?—to those in “The Fix.”The predicament

For those of you keeping score at home, that’s seventeen short stories vying for a spot in the collection. While there’s nothing stopping me from including them all, I suspect that when all is said and done, somewhere between twelve and fifteen stories will make the cut.

At least I’m not alone in this head-versus-heart conundrum. My friends at the Allied Authors of Wisconsin have and will continue to provide some much-needed objectivity, and I’m hoping to find a few more beta readers to help me separate the good from the bad from the embarrassing.

What say you?

Interested in getting a sneak peek at my 2021 short story collection? If you’d like to be a beta reader, please comment below or contact me here!

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Presenting my new, old-school webcomic

The year ahead is looking pixel perfect if you ask me.

In 2020, I published my seventh and eighth novels, released my first audiobook, and contributed a short story to a dreampunk anthology—among other things.

So what’s on deck for 2021? To quote the guys from Monty Python: “And now for something completely different.”

Well, maybe not completely different.

While I have no shortage of ideas for future books and, indeed, will be working on a short story collection for release later this year, I’ve decided to try my hand at a new storytelling medium—a comic.

More specifically, a webcomic.

Even more specifically, a pixel-art webcomic.

Curmudgeons & Flagons made its digital debut late last year with a getting-to-know-the-gang Issue 0. However, the first official issue was published on January 1, 2021. You can read it for free at GraphiteComics.com.

Here’s everything you need to know about my wonderfully retro webcomic:

What is Curmudgeons & Flagons about?

I’ll answer that question with another question: What do you do after you save the world?

As your golden years encroach, you’ll likely leave the adventuring life behind—though never the companions who helped you conquer foe after foe. Maybe there’s a cozy little place that remembers your party and is willing to give you a discount for your heroic deeds. It’s as good a place as any to lay down roots…

Curmudgeons & Flagons follows four former adventurers who while away their retirement in an inn, drinking, reliving their glory days, and questioning the nature of reality. It’s a humorous commentary on Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop roleplaying games (RPGs), video game RPGs, and getting older—rendered in old-school pixel art.

Whom is Curmudgeons & Flagons about?

There are four main characters:

Osmund the Oak

A human monk with a mission, this one-time master of the quarterstaff has become a major stick in the mud. Osmund was the party leader back in the day. He probably thinks he’s still in charge.

Ronnie

A dwarven fighter with a lust for life, she possesses a hunger for battle that is eclipsed only by her thirst for ale. As a dwarf, she has aged slower than her companion. Don’t you dare tell her she is past her prime!

Kaf’ael

Is he a human? A demon? No one has ever seen this sneaky (and sleepy) spellcaster without his shadowy hood. Although he’s the most reserved member of the party, Kaf’ael is full of surprises.

Sister Sidra

A healer and supposed prophetess, she claims to know the future. But don’t ask her what she had for breakfast. While Sidra comes off as flighty at times, her heart is always in the right place.

There will also be a few minor characters who will pop in every now and then, including the Innkeeper, Farmer Geoff, Gnorbert the Gnome, and even a rival band of heroes.

Why did you decide to create a webcomic?

Having been a fan of graphic novels since I was a kid, I’ve always wanted to write a full-fledged comic book. When I was young, I tried producing my own, but I lacked the artistic chops to illustrate what was in my head.

Later, a group of friends and I attempted to collaborate on a series of one-shots that would have included a streamlined version of The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot. That group project fizzled, so I ended up transforming the inklings of that plot into a YA fantasy novel.

But I still wanted to explore this visual artform.

The idea for Curmudgeons & Flagons came out of nowhere on 3/31/20, though I didn’t know it was a comic at the time. I thought maybe it was a short story or novel about aging adventurers who have to come out of retirement to defeat the one monster they never bested. I jotted down more ideas as the months went by, roughly mapping out their unexpected quest. I even tinkered with the idea of making C&F into a low-tech video game.

Eventually, I realized that the concept could work as a webcomic as well—especially if the former heroes never leave the inn. Maybe one day I’ll try my hand at a game, but for now, I’m content to check “comic” off of my bucket list.

Why did you choose the pixel art style?

As mentioned above, I’m not an illustrator. Though I used to sketch when I was younger, I never developed that talent into a marketable skill—at least not for a medium as demanding as a comic book.

But I love pixel art. It makes me smile because it reminds me of the video games I grew up playing on the original Nintendo and Super Nintendo, including Final Fantasy, Dragon Warrior, Ultima: Quest of the Avatar, and so forth. And I’m amused at how many pixel-art video games are still being made—from lesser-known titles like Pixel Heroes: Byte & Magic to Mojang’s juggernaut, Minecraft.

The beauty of pixel art is that it’s deceptively simple. Anyone can stack squares to create an image, but the trick is using as few details as possible to get the point across. Could I make my own sprites from scratch?

I had to try.

During the artist retreat I took with my wife last year, I began playing with different software, attempting to create my own boxy art assets. Before the week was over, I had created the four main characters and most of the inn.

And I really enjoyed doing it. On the one hand, it’s an awfully forgiving format. I mean, I’m intentionally making art that is simple and angular and admittedly janky. On the other hand, I get to use both sides of my brain to manage the aesthetics and mathematics of each individual piece.

In general, pixel art makes me smile. Creating my own pixel art makes me want to do a happy dance.

Who is the target audience for Curmudgeons & Flagons?

Me, mostly.

These episodic, five-panel comics are my experiments with a new-for-me kind of storytelling. They don’t have to be laugh-out-loud funny or masterpieces in plotting. In short, I’m producing C&F for S&Gs.

Having said that, I know I’m not the only one who grew up losing themselves in pixel-y fantasy worlds. Many a middle-aged gamer—whether a tabletop adventurer or video game geek—will be able to relate to the tropes and topics I explore in the comic.

It’s a somewhat silly project that makes me happy. Hopefully, it’ll make other fans of fantasy happy too.

Where can I read Curmudgeons & Flagons?

Curmudgeons & Flagons is published exclusively by One Million Words (my imprint) via Graphite Comics, an online hub for digital comics of all kinds.

I’ll be releasing a new issue every Friday in 2021. Bookmark this link to see the latest webcomic or catch up on back issues.

How much does it cost to read the webcomic?

Nothing—it’s free!

If I get enough clicks each month, I could get a cut of Graphite Comics’ revenue-sharing pool. But honestly, I’m not publishing this webcomic to make money. It’s a passion project through and through.

Will Curmudgeons & Flagons be available in print?

If I find a fanbase for C&F, I’d love to combine all of Volume 1 (the 52 issues coming out in 2021) into a trade paperback. However, that will depend largely upon readership…so tell your geeky friends to click on through an issue or two!

What do you hope to accomplish with this webcomic?

I’ve already done what I set out to do: create an original comic.

Yet it would be awfully nice if I found an audience for this enchanting example of dry humor and RPG love. Finding actual fans would give me an excuse to make (and wear) T-shirts bearing the logo, characters, and so forth. It might also motivate me to get the gang out of the inn, so to speak, either in a serialized webcomic storyline or a work of interactive fiction—such as the indie video game mentioned earlier.

And if those who stumble upon Curmudgeons & Flagons become interested in my other published works, so much the better!

Ready to start the non-adventure?.fusion-button.button-1 {border-radius:25px;}ENTER THE INN.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-1{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}

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20 Reasons 2020 Rocked

For many folks, this past year has been filled with doom and gloom.

COVID-19 caused major disruptions in almost everyone’s life. While I don’t want to diminish the seriousness of the pandemic and its consequences, I’ve found at least one silver lining: more time to work on my writing.

Instead of bemoaning my lost opportunities—I was really looking forward to presenting at the Lakefly Writers Conference, the Fond du Lac Area Writers meeting, and other events—I choose to instead focus on my 2020 accomplishments:

1. Published Magic’s Daughter in paperback and e-book

While subscribers to the Radish serial fiction app got a sneak peek at this fantasy novel last year, the story made its mainstream debut in March, making Magic’s Daughter the seventh book in One Million Words’ catalog.

2. Enjoyed an artist retreat with my wife

Steph and I spent a week at a cozy, mostly secluded inn before the coronavirus came on strong. Though I didn’t do any writing, I exercised some seldom-used creative muscles by working on digital art and, in the evenings, sketching together.

3. Wrote a play

When challenged to write a three-person play for Fond du Lac Community Theatre, I tackled a timely topic that struck close to home: “The Battle for Bandwidth.”

4. Managed to attend 4 events

The Downtown Fond du Lac Chili Crawl crept in right before the pandemic, and when numbers were looking better in the late summer, I peddled my literary wares at the mask-mandatory Main Street Market. Additionally, I enjoyed my first virtual events, participating in the Waukesha Wrimos’ Day of Writing Dangerously and the North Fond du Lac Wordsmiths’ November meeting.

5. Wrote a couple of guest blog posts

In addition to the monthly articles on my own website, I had the privilege of sharing two guest posts this fall, “Cultivating a New Fantasy Creature” and “Why YA Fantasy?”

6. Provided beta-reading feedback for two Allied Authors

One of the perks of being in a writers group is having access to prereaders that can identify problems in a book prior to publication. The flip side is I’m happy to help them in return—and I’m looking forward to getting my hands on a final copy of Charming and Lovecraft: The Great Tales!

7. Made the front page of my local newspaper

This is admittedly vain, but it brought a smile to my face to see Magic’s Daughter as the main feature in the Action Advertiser. Print media ain’t dead, folks, as evidenced by how many congratulatory messages I received from those who saw it.

8. Wrote and led 2 homebrew Dungeons & Dragons adventures

Though this isn’t directly tied to my One Million Words publications, I had a lot of fun plotting out “Murder in Bur Hollow” and “Who is Jasper Cobbletrue?”—and even more fun seeing how my family reacted to the various twists and turns.

9. Commissioned my daughter for character art

As I was finalizing my second novel for release in 2020, a YA portal fantasy, I knew I needed some fun graphics to complement the amazing cover. I tapped my teenage daughter for character art, including the above rendering of the Fosyth for one of the aforementioned guest blog posts.

10. Created copious pixel-art assets for a webcomic

I’m nowhere near as good an illustrator as Gwen, but I did have a lot of fun tinkering with pixel art, a medium that leverages both left-brained mathematics and right-brained imagination. In my spare moments throughout the year, I created the setting and (too) many characters for my upcoming webcomic, Curmudgeons & Flagons.

11. Wrote 11 short stories

In spite of earlier claims that I can’t write short stories and in preparation for next year’s anthology, I pushed myself to pen (OK, type) 11 short stories, including eight in an eight-week span. They are:

“Gamechanger”
“Reputation: A Tall Tale of Altaerra”
“Epiphany”
“Anthropology in Apogee”
“Flesh and Blood”
“The End”
“Suspect”
“Dead Magic”
“Captive”
“Unparalleled”
“School Spirit”

12. Celebrated Reader Appreciation Day

I get a kick out of doing something special every September 13th, a day I arbitrarily deemed Reader Appreciation Day. This year, I polished my first short story of the year, created a cover for it, and made it available as a free e-book. You can still get “Gamechanger” here!

13. Made my first foray into traditional publishing

It dawned on me not too long ago that my inclusion in Mirrormaze: A Dreampunk Anthology marks my advent into traditional publishing. The collection, which includes my short story “Drifters”—a tie-in to The Soul Sleep Cycle—was published by Fractured Mirror Publishing earlier this month. You can buy it here!

14. Started selling at a local book market

“Where can I buy your books?” is a question I get a lot. While some folks are happy to shop online at Amazon, others prefer a more hands-on retail experience. Fortunately, an amazing indie bookstore opened up in downtown Fond du Lac this past fall. Lunar & Lake Book Market carries all of my paperbacks, books by other local authors, and a wide array of new books produced by publishers big and small.

15. Published The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot in paperback and e-book

One Million Words, my indie publishing company, released its eighth book in early October: The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot. This YA portal fantasy novel was a whole lot of fun to write, and I’m so glad the rest of the world has a chance to tag along with the teens of Good Company on their first real quest.

16. Made my first book trailer

Did you know book trailers are a thing? Or maybe they aren’t anymore. Regardless, I wanted to try something new to promote The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot (LToSL). Check it out below.

17. Started a YouTube channel

The aforementioned book trailer forced me to create a YouTube channel, something I’d been avoiding for some time. I can’t guarantee I’ll have regular updates, but at least I have a place to host my LToSL promo and the occasional event—and my online Dungeons & Dragons appearances.

18. Created a fun quiz to promote LToSL

What better way to introduce readers to the cast of my latest novel than to create a super-trendy online quiz. That’s right; by answering a handful of questions you can see which member of Good Company you are most like. Bonus points if you get Tom Foolery.

19. Published my first audiobook

I had high hopes going into 2020, thinking I might be able to transform all three entries in The Soul Sleep Cycle into audiobooks. When that proved too expensive, I decided to work with a professional narrator and producer to get Magic’s Daughter onto Audible’s virtual shelf. Check it out here!

20. Laid the groundwork for a fantastic 2021

I can’t imagine next year will be quite as productive as 2020 was, but I’m excited at what lies ahead for One Million Words. I’ve eagerly mapped out my to-do list for the next 365 days or so. Here’s a little of what I’m looking forward to in 2021:

Debuting the Curmudgeons & Flagons webcomic on 1/1/21 (follow me on Facebook or Twitter to catch the first issue)
Publishing a short-story collection in paperback and e-book this summer
Working on and, hopefully, publishing a d20 tabletop game inspired by the characters of The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot
Narrating and producing an audiobook version of The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot on my own—maybe
Researching and possibly even starting to work on my big project for 2022: a work of interactive fiction that could end up being a text-based game about superheroes

I wouldn’t be surprised if something else popped up. You know what they say about the best-laid plans, and I can’t promise a spontaneous desire to pen (OK, type) the sequel to Magic’s Daughter or a completely knew scheme won’t usurp priority away from something else.

I suppose that’s what makes the future—and speculative fiction—so exciting: anything can happen!

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Gaze into the Mirrormaze

New anthology delivers 29 dreampunk stories

Fans of the metaphysical and weird, rejoice! A new collection of strange stories examining the nature of reality—and unreality—has made its way to the waking world.

Mirrormaze: A Dreampunk Anthology, edited by Cliff Jones Jr., is the first work of its kind and is intended to introduce a wider audience to the fledgling genre it spotlights.

According to whatisdreampunk.com, “dreampunk fiction often makes use of surreal imagery, esoteric symbolism, dream logic (which may not be entirely logical), dream-related technology, false/subjective realities, shamanism, and Jungian psychology…

“There are no rules, no limits, and nothing can be taken for granted.”

I’m thrilled to report that one of my own short stories was selected for inclusion in the anthology. “Drifters” is a prequel of sorts to The Soul Sleep Cycle, introducing readers to the phenomenon of dream drifting—the ability of a select few to enter the dreams of others.

Fans of The Soul Sleep Cycle might think of the story as “When Milton Met Allie.”

Of course, “Drifters” is just one of many twists within Mirrormaze. The back-cover blurb offers a broader depiction of what readers will encounter:

We find ourselves in a very strange place.

Technology is embedded so deeply in our lives that it no longer feels separate. It’s taken for granted, like breathing. Whatever can be imagined can be experienced, if not in the “real” world, then somewhere else. Somewhere better. This is our new reality. We live inside our heads, in our dreams.

Come navigate a labyrinth of visions, illusions, nightmares, and fantasies. Explore the nascent genre of dreampunk with 22 of its finest authors as they examine and transform the dreamscapes that we call our lives. Get lost among the twists and turns, ascending to the upper limits of both wonder and dread.

Do you dare enter the Mirrormaze?

Mirrormaze: A Dreampunk Anthology is available as an e-book and paperback at Amazon.com.

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Hear ye! Hear ye! Magic’s Daughter audiobook is now available!

Gather around, my friends, and prepare to hear a story as stirring as any sung by Silas the Bard.

That’s right: Magic’s Daughter, the latest tale of Altaerra, can now be enjoyed as an audiobook.

If you need a reminder of what this adventure is all about, behold:

A BLACK SHEEP IN RED ROBES

Selena Nelesti wants nothing to do with her noble name.

While her mother schemes to find her a highborn husband, young Selena loses herself in her studies, learning about the villains and heroes who helped shape the world.

But ancient history cannot fix her future. To destroy the shackles of duty and forge her own path, she must seek out new knowledge—forbidden knowledge.

All magic requires sacrifice, however, and if Selena is not careful, it may consume her completely.

All hail the narrator!

I can’t speak highly enough of Angela Rysk, the narrator of Magic’s Daughter. Here are just a few reasons why her performance is amazing:

First and foremost, I love her voice. Her tone, inflections, cadence—all of it works together to keep listeners on the edge of their seats.
She gives dialogue the attention it deserves, masterfully voicing men, women, and children alike and effortlessly bouncing back and forth between high-brow Superian and cockney Paramese.
For that matter, I threw more than 100 names of people and places at her, including many odd appellations of my own creation. From Afren Ckile to Sylvanayérek, she did Altaerra proud!

Thank you, Angela, for all of your hard work.

Don’t be afraid to dabble!

Go ahead and give the prologue a whirl:

Prologue

Embrace the magic!
.fusion-button.button-1 {border-radius:25px;}Buy the Audiobook

If you are inclined to leave an honest review on Audible, I’d be happy to send you a promo code for a free copy of the audiobook. Just contact me with the request!

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Good Company’s quest begins…now!

It’s GAME ON with new novel for fans of fantasy RPGs

’Tis a most auspicious day indeed for adventurers young and old. Behold: the advent of a new epic scribed upon parchment and conjurable for thy literary talisman!

Translation: The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot is now available in paperback and for Kindle!

Wizards & Wannabes

As the first day of high school creeps closer, five friends agree to one last LARP* before splitting the party and ending their geeky game forever.

But the real adventure is just beginning…

Mistaking the teens’ costumed characters for actual warriors, a sorceress summons Sir Larpsalot, Elvish Presley, Brutus the Bullheaded, Master Prospero, and Tom Foolery to her world to complete an impossible quest. To succeed, they must become the heroes they only ever pretended to be.

And if they can’t find a way to win, it’s GAME OVER for real!

* Live action role-playing game

Join the adventure!
.fusion-button.button-1 {border-radius:25px;}Buy the BookLearn more about the larp

Meet your heroes
LToSL Q&A
“Which Member of Good Company are You?” quiz
Read the first two chapters

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Free short story for Reader Appreciation Day

 

If you’re reading this, you rock.

Five years ago, I arbitrarily decided September 13th would be a holiday to thank everyone who has supported me on my journey to become an honest-to-goodness, real-life author.

And this year is no exception.

For Reader Appreciation Day 2020, I’m giving away a prequel of sorts to my upcoming YA fantasy novel. “Gamechanger” is a fun standalone story but also serves as a teaser for those who are looking forward to The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot on Oct. 6.

The Epic Origin of Brutus the Bullheaded

Before The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot—before Good Company even existed—it was just Asher and Lorenzo. While Asher / Elvish Presley wants to expand the party, Lorenzo / Sir Larpsalot is content to keep the game between himself and his BFF.

Enter Makayla Schmidt. A girl.

“Gamechanger” recounts Mak’s first larp and reveals the origin story of everyone’s favorite minotaur berserker.

Click here to download the story for your e-reader or as a PDF.

All you have to do is sign up for my monthly newsletter. (If you’re already a subscriber, just fill out the form to get an email with the download link.) It’s my little way of saying thank you for all of your support.

So why are you still here? Adventure awaits!

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Roll up your sleeves and write that rough draft

It all comes down to this.

After months of following a methodical approach to planning my novel, it’s finally time to put fingertips to keyboard and actually write The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot.

Before I reveal whether the Snowflake Method properly equipped me for smooth sailing along through my rough draft, here’s a quick review of all I did to prepare for this ultimate writing exercise:

Write a one-sentence summary of your novel — After a dozen attempts to tell my store in a single statement, I came up with a summary I was satisfied with: “Five teen larpers must become the fantasy warriors they pretend to be when a confused wizard summons them to complete an impossible quest in another world.”
Expand the single sentence into a full paragraph — My handful of sentences outlined the complete plot arch, including at least three disasters for the heroes to overcome.
Create your main characters — The five short character profiles I created tied more into the plot than their personalities, including such information as their goals, conflicts, and epiphanies.
Expand each sentence of the summary into a full paragraph — Piecing together this one-page skeleton was relatively easy, thanks to the three steps that came before it. And there was plenty of creative opportunity to put some meat on the bones.
Hear your characters’ stories in their own words — I worried that telling the same story from five separate points of view would be tedious, but this activity proved to be both rewarding and fun.
Transform your one-page summary into a true synopsis — Most authors dread making a synopsis, but building one from the single-page outline in Step 4 proved to be far less daunting than what I experienced for prior projects.
Make sure your main characters cast a shadow — Getting to know my characters and making them as rich and realistic as possible has always been my forte. This time around was no different.
Outline all scenes in a spreadsheet — As much as I love using spreadsheets to stay organized, Excel proved to be a less-than-effective tool for outlining my story. I ended up doing a hybrid between what was spelled out in Step 8 and Step 9.
Create a true chapter outline — While deciding every broad stroke of a book before writing the first scene can be a challenge, I live and die by my chapter outlines; given all the steps that came before, I was in an excellent position to put one together for this novel.

Which brings me to Step 10…

Step 10 of the Snowflake Method
What Randy recommends

I took these notes from Mr. Ingermanson’s article about the Snowflake Method:

Step 10: Write the first draft.

The writing should be a lot faster—and cleaner—than past efforts
(This is the fun part!)
Total time: ???

What David did

With chapter outline in hand, I jumped in headfirst.

On Sept. 3, 2019, I wrote the rough draft of the first chapter and kept going from there, averaging about three chapters per week. Exactly three months after I began, I finished the final chapter of The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot.

While I can’t say definitively that this was the quickest first draft I ever composed, it certainly ranks among my speediest first passes. Was it cleaner than past efforts? Possibly. My beta readers gave me plenty to consider, but even so, my second draft was more about making moderate edits than rewriting large passages—or entire chapters, for that matter.

Partly because this YA portal fantasy is less complex and shorter than my past novels, getting from first draft to the final version took far less time than usual. And I have to admit writing a rough draft, for me, is far more fun when I have a clear glimpse of the landscape ahead, instead of scrambling to come up with character traits, plot points, subplots, transitions, and themes on the fly.

The verdict

Would I recommend the Snowflake Method to other novelists?

Yes…with a few caveats:

If you’re a “pantser”—someone who typically does little pre-writing and just starts penning the story when the spirit moves you—the Snowflake Method provides a logical, step-by-step structure for the planning process. By tackling these bite-sized exercises, you might find this to be an excellent way to see if becoming a plotter might be right for you.
If you’re already a plotter—someone who makes a roadmap of some kind which they following from “Chapter 1” all the way to “The End”—the Snowflake Method can help you refine your process, possibly making it more efficient or effective. If you already know what works well for you, I encourage you to make personal modifications as needed; build upon what you know works rather than blowing it up and/or replacing your approach entirely.
Be warned: the Snowflake Method doesn’t specifically leave room for things like research, word building, or miscellaneous brainstorming. You have to come into this approach with a pretty strong/vetted idea to be able to hit the ground running. Be prepared to take a few timeouts in between steps to allow yourself time for discovery.

I fully expect I will use a version of the Snowflake Method for my upcoming novels, and I thank Randy Ingermanson for sharing his process with us.

As for The Lost Tale of Sir Larpsalot itself, I’ll be adding more content to this website in the months to come. Publication of the paperback and Kindle editions are slated for early October 2020, and if I can muster the courage, I’m considering narrating the audiobook for release some time in 2021.

Thank you for following me on this adventure in novel planning. I can’t wait to share the fruits of my labor—Good Company’s quirky quest—this fall!

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