H.E. Roulo's Blog, page 9
May 11, 2012
The Wickeds Anthology Now Available!
The Wickeds: A Wicked Women Writers Anthology (Volume 1) is now available in print on Amazon. It includes my contest winning short story Graveyard Shift (and Reshift).
Here’s the release information from the publisher.
A Wicked Women Writers Anthology (Volume 1)
Available now at Amazon.com
Edited by Hollie Snider
HorrorAddicts.net presents thirteen horror tales from up-and-coming women writers. This diverse collection of revenge, torture, and macabre is sure to quench any horror addi...
April 3, 2012
I Need an Editor. Now What?
Finding a skilled, reliable, affordable freelance book editor isn't impossible, but the range of options out there makes it confusing. I'll share my experiences and see if it helps.
With my first novel, I went with word of mouth from people I knew. I went for cheap. I ended up with a series of editors who said they'd do the work, and months later admitted that it just wasn't going to happen. They weren't bad people, just people with good intentions and busy lives.
So in the three years since...
March 30, 2012
Making it Personal- A retreat into introspection
Many blogs indulge in deep thoughts and navel-gazing, and this isn't one of them. Generally, you've come for writing advice and that's what I deliver. However, on this occasion my advice is about remembering to make it personal. I'm far enough into writing that I've dedicated myself to the business side so that I might sell my work (crazy, I know) but art is about self-expression. I could explain further, but that's what the short story is for. And if this introduction hasn't caught your...
January 11, 2012
How to Find Places to Publish Short Stories
Writers looking to be published often ask how they can find markets for their short stories.
The very best site I've found for learning about anthologies and other publishing opportunities is duotrope.com. There, they let you search, sort, and track markets. Speculative fiction writers can also use ralan.com. Horror writers might find the Library of the Living Dead forum useful, especially Other Publishers if you're looking for a mix of opportunities.
Usually writers looking to publish are in o...
December 2, 2011
8 Novel Editing Steps – The Basic Overview
Writing a first draft is a big deal.
Writers love to write. They love writing so much more than editing that they write articles about how to edit and let their doughy mess of a manuscript sit beside the keyboard.
(Not that I would do that. Heh.)
But within the surplus of information they agree on certain points:
Get Perspective
1.) Finish and then let the manuscript sit. Set it aside until you don't recall each keystroke. Come back when you're ready to question the choices you made. Several...
May 2, 2011
A Simple Novel Outline – 9 questions for 25 chapters
[image error]photo © 2010 joost j. bakker | more info (via: Wylio)Just as every tree is different but still recognizably a tree, every story is different but contains elements that make it a story. By defining those before you begin you clarify the scope of your work, identify your themes, and create the story you meant to write.
At Norwescon 2011 I sat in on a session called Outline Your Novel in 90-minutes led by Mark Teppo. I'll give you the brief, readable, synthesized version. Answer 9 questions and c...
April 15, 2011
Four Steps for a Successful New Fiction Writer
photo © 2010 John O'Nolan | more info (via: Wylio)
When a friend discovered that I am an author and have sold several short stories he asked how to begin writing fiction. And much to my surprise, I had a list of strong suggestions that broke down into four main areas.
Yes, if you want to be a writer you do have to put the work in. This is the difference between someone who says they want to be a writer, and someone who is. Don't have time? Make some. There is no other way.
Step...March 24, 2011
Kindle Publishing Strategies – The short story test
photo © 2009 goXunuReviews | more info (via: Wylio)
Authors work hard, with little acknowledgement, begging publishers to pluck them from the mob and tell them their work is valuable. So it is understandable that recent stories of ebook millionaires and how Barry Eisler, an established author, turned down half a million dollars to self-publish is a beacon of hope. We could be in control? And be paid for what we love?
Those eBook and Kindle stories, such as Amanda...
February 4, 2011
New Horror Short Story: Stripping the Zipper

Art by Devlin Donnelly
Or maybe that heat in my cheeks is from the story Stripping the Zipper. Reminder: This is for mature audiences.
The story starts around 42 minutes into the episode and last just over 20 minutes: listen on mevio.
If you're a Horror Addicts...
February 1, 2011
New Year Brings New Short Stories in Fractured Horizon Universe

Fractured Horizon H.E. Roulo cover alternate
ArtworkApparently I love to post when I have new images, and this month is no exception. Here's another take on the Fractured Horizon book cover. Keep in mind, it's a virtual book so the cover can be anything I want. How do you think this one compares?
Re-opening the Fractured Horizon Archive- Short stories coming up!The universe of Fractured Horizon, populated by feisty genetically engineered Adams and ambitious mystic Royals, along with our...