Jess Steven Hughes's Blog, page 12
July 5, 2016
Blog Update July 4, 2016
The Broken Lance-Update
I recently completed the rewrite of chapter one. The main character, cavalry sergeant, Marcellus Tiberius Reburrus, and his squadron of thirty men and horses, make a stormy crossing of the British (English) Channel in a leaky old merchant ship. The ship's keel is ripped out on a hidden reef and men and beasts have to swim ashore in freezing water and rain.
The "book doctor," a former editor with Harper-Collins/St. Martins Press, advised that I start the chapter in the "middle of the action," the storm rather than the staid first scene, their departure from Gaul. She said use that as background information in chapter two. I have given the rewrite to my mentor, Patricia DeMarrs Pfeiffer, to critique and will submit copies to members of the Spokane Novelist Group as well for their review. Once I have reviewed their suggestions and make possible changes, I will resubmit the chapter to the book doctor for further review. In the meantime, it is on to the next major change.
Hastings Book Store News
Some of you know that the majority of my book signings are conducted at Hastings Books, Music & Video stores. This is a store found in the Midwest, Northwest and the Southwest. Company headquarters is in Amarillo, Texas. They recently filed for chapter 11, bankruptcy. This was necessary because they have a potential buyer, but the store needed to reorganize. At this time all stores remain open and it appears there is no intention to close any. Below is a partial copy of the company's intentions:
"At Hastings, our mission is to bring you the array of entertainment products, collectibles and basics that have made us a fixture in our local communities while also creating experiences that delight you and grow with you over the years. We have been working diligently to transform our stores with these objectives in mind and already have completed 20 refreshed stores with overwhelmingly positive reviews.
We believe we are on the right path, but we need additional financial support to fully execute our plan for the future. That is why we have initiated a comprehensive process to evaluate potential buyers for our business and, as part of that sale process, have filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code along with our corporate parent (Draw Another Circle) and sister brands (Movie Stop and SPImages). The Chapter 11 process will help to prepare our business for the intended sale while also providing additional protections and financing to allow us to serve you as usual.
Please be assured that Hastings stores and e-commerce business remain open and continue to bring you the superior selection of multimedia and entertainment products you have come to expect from us. In addition, our Passport program is continuing with all your accumulated benefits intact, and we continue to launch exciting new promotions on an ongoing basis.
At this time, we will be changing a few other programs, as outlined below:
Hastings will no longer accept nor honor customer deposits for future movie purchases. Instead, existing deposits may be applied towards additional purchases in the store.
Game rentals will no longer be available.
Gift cards will expire on July 13, 2016-30 days from today's announcement.
Hastings' buyback program has been suspended. "
I have contacted several store book managers. At this time all book consignments have been removed from their shelves and authors have been asked to pick them up. Book signings have currently been suspended. The managers believe that eventually that book signings will resume and consignments allowed. I am not scheduled for a signing in any of their stores until October. I'm keeping my fingers crossed the situation will be resolved.
Maiden Castle
When the Romans invaded Britain in 43-44 A.D. one of their greatest battles was fought at Maiden Castle in Dorset, England. Below is a description from the FB page, Prehistoric Mind:
Maiden Castle in Dorset is huge! It is the largest Iron Age hillfort in Britain, and by some accounts, the largest in Europe, spanning a humongous 47 acres/19 hectares! Starting life as a Neolithic causewayed enclosure in around 4,000 BC, Maiden Castle grew into one of the most fiercely defended forts in Iron Age Britain. A formidable sight for miles around.
In my forthcoming historical novel, The Broken Lance, I describe my version of the battle for Maiden Castle. Much of the information, I used is based on the latest archaeological information.
10 Things You May Not Know About the Byzantine Empire (Eastern Roman Empire)
"476 A.D. is usually cited as the year that the Roman Empire came crashing down, but its eastern half lived on for another thousand years in the form of the Byzantine Empire, a mighty kingdom centered in Constantinople (modern day Istanbul). This Eastern Roman Empire had many of the facets of its western counterpart—high culture, a booming economy, dazzling architecture and vicious, power-hungry leaders—and it served as a bulwark against invasions of Europe until 1453, when it was finally toppled by the Ottoman Turks. Below, explore 10 fascinating facts about the medieval empire that bridged the gap between the classical world and the Renaissance."
See the enclosed link for more information
http://www.history.com/news/history-l...
Historical Fiction
"History tells us what people do; historical fiction helps us imagine how they felt."
--Guy Vanderhaeghe
On a Personal Note
Our son, Chris, and granddaughter, Veronica, recently visited us. They were here to check out Washington State University and Gonzaga University as possible schools for Veronica to attend once she graduated from high school. Besides that, we took them several places including a Spokane Indians (affiliated with the Major League Texas Rangers) minor league baseball game.
Also, we took Chris and Veronica fishing at Williams Lake, Washington and much more. I hope Veronica will go to college up here in the Spokane, Washington area, but we will have to wait and see.
That's all for now. Have a great July! Salve Atque Vale! Hail and Farewell!
I recently completed the rewrite of chapter one. The main character, cavalry sergeant, Marcellus Tiberius Reburrus, and his squadron of thirty men and horses, make a stormy crossing of the British (English) Channel in a leaky old merchant ship. The ship's keel is ripped out on a hidden reef and men and beasts have to swim ashore in freezing water and rain.
The "book doctor," a former editor with Harper-Collins/St. Martins Press, advised that I start the chapter in the "middle of the action," the storm rather than the staid first scene, their departure from Gaul. She said use that as background information in chapter two. I have given the rewrite to my mentor, Patricia DeMarrs Pfeiffer, to critique and will submit copies to members of the Spokane Novelist Group as well for their review. Once I have reviewed their suggestions and make possible changes, I will resubmit the chapter to the book doctor for further review. In the meantime, it is on to the next major change.
Hastings Book Store News
Some of you know that the majority of my book signings are conducted at Hastings Books, Music & Video stores. This is a store found in the Midwest, Northwest and the Southwest. Company headquarters is in Amarillo, Texas. They recently filed for chapter 11, bankruptcy. This was necessary because they have a potential buyer, but the store needed to reorganize. At this time all stores remain open and it appears there is no intention to close any. Below is a partial copy of the company's intentions:
"At Hastings, our mission is to bring you the array of entertainment products, collectibles and basics that have made us a fixture in our local communities while also creating experiences that delight you and grow with you over the years. We have been working diligently to transform our stores with these objectives in mind and already have completed 20 refreshed stores with overwhelmingly positive reviews.
We believe we are on the right path, but we need additional financial support to fully execute our plan for the future. That is why we have initiated a comprehensive process to evaluate potential buyers for our business and, as part of that sale process, have filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code along with our corporate parent (Draw Another Circle) and sister brands (Movie Stop and SPImages). The Chapter 11 process will help to prepare our business for the intended sale while also providing additional protections and financing to allow us to serve you as usual.
Please be assured that Hastings stores and e-commerce business remain open and continue to bring you the superior selection of multimedia and entertainment products you have come to expect from us. In addition, our Passport program is continuing with all your accumulated benefits intact, and we continue to launch exciting new promotions on an ongoing basis.
At this time, we will be changing a few other programs, as outlined below:
Hastings will no longer accept nor honor customer deposits for future movie purchases. Instead, existing deposits may be applied towards additional purchases in the store.
Game rentals will no longer be available.
Gift cards will expire on July 13, 2016-30 days from today's announcement.
Hastings' buyback program has been suspended. "
I have contacted several store book managers. At this time all book consignments have been removed from their shelves and authors have been asked to pick them up. Book signings have currently been suspended. The managers believe that eventually that book signings will resume and consignments allowed. I am not scheduled for a signing in any of their stores until October. I'm keeping my fingers crossed the situation will be resolved.
Maiden Castle
When the Romans invaded Britain in 43-44 A.D. one of their greatest battles was fought at Maiden Castle in Dorset, England. Below is a description from the FB page, Prehistoric Mind:
Maiden Castle in Dorset is huge! It is the largest Iron Age hillfort in Britain, and by some accounts, the largest in Europe, spanning a humongous 47 acres/19 hectares! Starting life as a Neolithic causewayed enclosure in around 4,000 BC, Maiden Castle grew into one of the most fiercely defended forts in Iron Age Britain. A formidable sight for miles around.
In my forthcoming historical novel, The Broken Lance, I describe my version of the battle for Maiden Castle. Much of the information, I used is based on the latest archaeological information.
10 Things You May Not Know About the Byzantine Empire (Eastern Roman Empire)
"476 A.D. is usually cited as the year that the Roman Empire came crashing down, but its eastern half lived on for another thousand years in the form of the Byzantine Empire, a mighty kingdom centered in Constantinople (modern day Istanbul). This Eastern Roman Empire had many of the facets of its western counterpart—high culture, a booming economy, dazzling architecture and vicious, power-hungry leaders—and it served as a bulwark against invasions of Europe until 1453, when it was finally toppled by the Ottoman Turks. Below, explore 10 fascinating facts about the medieval empire that bridged the gap between the classical world and the Renaissance."
See the enclosed link for more information
http://www.history.com/news/history-l...
Historical Fiction
"History tells us what people do; historical fiction helps us imagine how they felt."
--Guy Vanderhaeghe
On a Personal Note
Our son, Chris, and granddaughter, Veronica, recently visited us. They were here to check out Washington State University and Gonzaga University as possible schools for Veronica to attend once she graduated from high school. Besides that, we took them several places including a Spokane Indians (affiliated with the Major League Texas Rangers) minor league baseball game.
Also, we took Chris and Veronica fishing at Williams Lake, Washington and much more. I hope Veronica will go to college up here in the Spokane, Washington area, but we will have to wait and see.
That's all for now. Have a great July! Salve Atque Vale! Hail and Farewell!
June 11, 2016
Blog Update
The Broken Lance - Update
As you may remember, I have been working on my latest novel, The Broken Lance, for several years. I completed the final revision and sent it to my book doctor (she doesn't want her name mention as she is not taking on any new clients) and former senior editor senior editor at Harper-Collins, for evaluation in April. Below is part of the evaluation letter she sent back with the manuscript. She considers this to be my best work yet.
Dear Steve,
"What an incredible pleasure it was to read and review The Broken Lance. I keep thinking back to when we first worked together and how far your writing has come since then. Your knowledge of history is incredible, as always, and you’ve now mastered setting, description, and character voice! The Broken Lance is so rich and compelling that I didn’t want it to end! Marcellus is a wonderful hero, Elyne a colorful and sassy heroine, and all of your secondary characters and villains are strong as well.
I found the pacing excellent and found myself flying through the pages because the writing and storytelling are just fantastic. Your dialogue is also authentic, interesting, and unique. I was also amazed at your ability to take so many characters and keep them distinguishable from each other for the reader—not an easy task! I applaud that you’ve been able to keep so many subplots and characters spinning—kudos!
You’ll notice that most of my comments are in the manuscript itself—small edits, comments, questions, etc.—but I wanted to list just a few overall thoughts here as well. Everything here has also been noted in the manuscript, but I want you to have my bigger suggestions accessible. This was a tough evaluation, I must be honest, because I truly think the manuscript is in excellent shape. I can’t give you tons of overall notes due to the fact that I couldn’t find many major issues! So please go through the manuscript carefully and review my specific page notes and edits (you’ll see I caught all the grammatical issues that I could, which were few). Congratulations on a rich, compelling, and mesmerizing novel. You’ve done an excellent job."
I still have work to do on the novel. Because it consists of 173,000 plus words, I will be turning this into a duo-logy. To publish it as one volume, the publisher, Sunbury Press, would have had to charge $30.00. That is too pricey, most people won't pay that for a trade paperback copy. The first book will still be titled, The Broken Lance and the second, The Peacekeeper. I will have to write a new ending for the first novel and a new opening for the second. So there is more work ahead of me. I hope to complete the rewrites by the end of the year. Once again I will have members of the Spokane Novelist Group critique the new segments."
Until I complete and submit the final rewrite of the two novel, my research and writing of my next novel, Return to Britannia (working title) will be place on hold. The above will consume what spare time I have.
Roman tablets found in LondonAncient Roman Wooden Tables Found in London
Roman tablets discovered during an excavation in London include the oldest hand-written document ever found in Britain, archaeologists have revealed.
The Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) said it had deciphered a document, from 8 January AD 57, found at the Dig at Bloomberg's new headquarters.
The first ever reference to London, financial documents and evidence of schooling have also been translated.
Over 700 artefacts from the dig will go on display when the building opens.
According to MOLA, the tablets reveal the first years of the capital "in the words of the people who lived, worked, traded with and administered the new city".
Director Sophie Jackson said the findings had "far exceeded all expectations" and would allow archaeologists "to get closer to the first Roman Britons".
For more details see enclosed link. link: First Roman Britons. http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-lo...
Ancient Teeth of Roman Workers Why the average ancient Roman worker was dead by 30
A groundbreaking study of 2,000 ancient Roman skeletons has shown how many of the ancient city's inhabitants were riddled with arthritis, suffered broken bones and were generally dead before 30.
The harsh realities of life in imperial Rome were revealed by a multi-disciplinary study carried out by an Italian team of osteopaths, historians and anthropologists which used modern scanning techniques to analyze a huge sample of skeletons recently unearthed in the suburbs of the Eternal City.
The skeletons were exhumed over the last 15 years in the course of construction work on a new high speed rail line between Rome and Naples and show the brutal reality of life for the majority of ancient Romans.
“The bones are the earthly remains of poor, working-class Romans, taken from commoners' graves, and display high incidences of broken and fractured bones, chronic arthritis and high incidences of bone cancer,” medical historian Valentina Gazzaniga told The Local.
“What's interesting is that the average age of death across the sample group was just 30, yet the skeletons still display severe damage wrought by the extremely difficult working conditions of the day.”
For further details, see enclosed link. Reality of life in ancient Rome. http://www.thelocal.it/20160527/groun...
Book Signing Schedule
Although I don't start book signings again until September, a tentative schedule is now listed. Again I will be signing copies of The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy at Barnes and Noble Booksellers and Hastings Books, Music and Videos. I will be staying primarily in Washington State this time with only one trip down to San Jose, California where I will once again sign at Barnes & Noble, Blossom Hill. May add a couple more stores to the list including Yokes Family Grocery Store which is a local Spokane, Washington chain.
Thought for the day
"Books Give A Soul to the Universe Thoughts About Books."
As you may remember, I have been working on my latest novel, The Broken Lance, for several years. I completed the final revision and sent it to my book doctor (she doesn't want her name mention as she is not taking on any new clients) and former senior editor senior editor at Harper-Collins, for evaluation in April. Below is part of the evaluation letter she sent back with the manuscript. She considers this to be my best work yet.
Dear Steve,
"What an incredible pleasure it was to read and review The Broken Lance. I keep thinking back to when we first worked together and how far your writing has come since then. Your knowledge of history is incredible, as always, and you’ve now mastered setting, description, and character voice! The Broken Lance is so rich and compelling that I didn’t want it to end! Marcellus is a wonderful hero, Elyne a colorful and sassy heroine, and all of your secondary characters and villains are strong as well.
I found the pacing excellent and found myself flying through the pages because the writing and storytelling are just fantastic. Your dialogue is also authentic, interesting, and unique. I was also amazed at your ability to take so many characters and keep them distinguishable from each other for the reader—not an easy task! I applaud that you’ve been able to keep so many subplots and characters spinning—kudos!
You’ll notice that most of my comments are in the manuscript itself—small edits, comments, questions, etc.—but I wanted to list just a few overall thoughts here as well. Everything here has also been noted in the manuscript, but I want you to have my bigger suggestions accessible. This was a tough evaluation, I must be honest, because I truly think the manuscript is in excellent shape. I can’t give you tons of overall notes due to the fact that I couldn’t find many major issues! So please go through the manuscript carefully and review my specific page notes and edits (you’ll see I caught all the grammatical issues that I could, which were few). Congratulations on a rich, compelling, and mesmerizing novel. You’ve done an excellent job."
I still have work to do on the novel. Because it consists of 173,000 plus words, I will be turning this into a duo-logy. To publish it as one volume, the publisher, Sunbury Press, would have had to charge $30.00. That is too pricey, most people won't pay that for a trade paperback copy. The first book will still be titled, The Broken Lance and the second, The Peacekeeper. I will have to write a new ending for the first novel and a new opening for the second. So there is more work ahead of me. I hope to complete the rewrites by the end of the year. Once again I will have members of the Spokane Novelist Group critique the new segments."
Until I complete and submit the final rewrite of the two novel, my research and writing of my next novel, Return to Britannia (working title) will be place on hold. The above will consume what spare time I have.
Roman tablets found in LondonAncient Roman Wooden Tables Found in London
Roman tablets discovered during an excavation in London include the oldest hand-written document ever found in Britain, archaeologists have revealed.
The Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) said it had deciphered a document, from 8 January AD 57, found at the Dig at Bloomberg's new headquarters.
The first ever reference to London, financial documents and evidence of schooling have also been translated.
Over 700 artefacts from the dig will go on display when the building opens.
According to MOLA, the tablets reveal the first years of the capital "in the words of the people who lived, worked, traded with and administered the new city".
Director Sophie Jackson said the findings had "far exceeded all expectations" and would allow archaeologists "to get closer to the first Roman Britons".
For more details see enclosed link. link: First Roman Britons. http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-lo...
Ancient Teeth of Roman Workers Why the average ancient Roman worker was dead by 30
A groundbreaking study of 2,000 ancient Roman skeletons has shown how many of the ancient city's inhabitants were riddled with arthritis, suffered broken bones and were generally dead before 30.
The harsh realities of life in imperial Rome were revealed by a multi-disciplinary study carried out by an Italian team of osteopaths, historians and anthropologists which used modern scanning techniques to analyze a huge sample of skeletons recently unearthed in the suburbs of the Eternal City.
The skeletons were exhumed over the last 15 years in the course of construction work on a new high speed rail line between Rome and Naples and show the brutal reality of life for the majority of ancient Romans.
“The bones are the earthly remains of poor, working-class Romans, taken from commoners' graves, and display high incidences of broken and fractured bones, chronic arthritis and high incidences of bone cancer,” medical historian Valentina Gazzaniga told The Local.
“What's interesting is that the average age of death across the sample group was just 30, yet the skeletons still display severe damage wrought by the extremely difficult working conditions of the day.”
For further details, see enclosed link. Reality of life in ancient Rome. http://www.thelocal.it/20160527/groun...
Book Signing Schedule
Although I don't start book signings again until September, a tentative schedule is now listed. Again I will be signing copies of The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy at Barnes and Noble Booksellers and Hastings Books, Music and Videos. I will be staying primarily in Washington State this time with only one trip down to San Jose, California where I will once again sign at Barnes & Noble, Blossom Hill. May add a couple more stores to the list including Yokes Family Grocery Store which is a local Spokane, Washington chain.
Thought for the day
"Books Give A Soul to the Universe Thoughts About Books."
May 9, 2016
Blog Tour Interview
Hello everyone,
My historical novel, The Wolf of Britannia, Part I, is on a virtual book tour during the month of May from the 2nd to the 27th. Below is an interview conducted as part of that tour. For more information check the following links: https://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Britannia... and http://thewriterslife.blogspot.com/20...
Interview by Dorothy Thompson, editor of The Writers Life e magazine.
Q: Welcome to The Writer's Life! Now that your book has been published, we’d love to find out more about the process. Can we begin by having you take us at the beginning? Where did you come up with the idea to write your book?
First of all, I have always liked reading historical fiction, especially, stories about the ancient world. My minor in college was Ancient Mediterranean Civilizations, and I have traveled extensively throughout the Mediterranean world and Western Europe, including England.
One of the things I noticed in reading historical fiction was that there was little written on the British Celtic king, Caratacus, who fought the Romans when they invaded Britain in 43 A.D. The major Celtic character of the First Century A.D. that has been written about extensively was the British Iceni Queen, Boudicca. After she and her daughters were humiliated and raped by the Romans, she rebelled against Rome in 60 A.D. destroying a Roman legion and killing thousands of British Romano sympathizers.
Yet, it was Caratacus who laid the ground work for this rebellion. He waged guerrilla warfare for eight years before he was betrayed and captured along with his wife and seven-year-old daughter (she is the main character in my first novel, The Sign of the Eagle). He and his family would survive the ordeal. However, we know little about him except what is written about him by the Roman historians, Tacitus and Cassius Dio. He has been mention extensive in modern history books dealing with the Roman invasion of Britain, but little written in historical fiction. I decided the time had come write about one of Britain's earliest genuine heroes.
Q: How hard was it to write a book like this and do you have any tips that you could pass on which would make the journey easier for other writers?
First of all, you need to learn how to write fiction. Take courses on creative writing/fiction in college or learn through a writers support group, I have done both. I am a member of the Spokane Novelist Group, Spokane, Washington. The group has been around for more than fifty years and most of the members are established authors. This is where I really learned to write fiction. They kept me honest. They didn't mince words when it came to critiquing my manuscripts. They trashed and trashed my work until I got it right.
Pick a topic you are interested in, not what someone else thinks you should write about. I am a retired police detective sergeant. When I first decided to write, most people figured I would write detective novels. This was the furthest thing from my mind. Twenty-five years of police work was enough for me. I had no interest in writing about crime except as to how it might relate in my historical novels.
Do your research. The old saying is true, "you write about what you know or what you have researched. In my case, it is what I have researched. I also traveled to the areas which I write about.
Q: Who is your publisher and how did you find them or did you self-publish?
My publisher is Sunbury Press (www.sunburypress.com), Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. They are a traditional small press, not a vanity/indie press. I submitted to several literary agents and publishers. They were the ones who accepted my novel for publication.
Q: Is there anything that surprised you about getting your first book published?
Actually, I surprised to how responsive the publisher was in answering my questions, and the same went for the assigned editor (she reviewed it three times and after each time I made the suggested corrections, although I had final say).
Q: What other books (if any) are you working on and when will they be published?
The Wolf of Britannia, Part I, is part of a trilogy that has already been published. The other two are,The Sign of the Eagle and The Wolf of Britannia, Part II. The Wolf of Britannia, Part I, is about Caratacus's rise to power. We see him as a young prince trying to unite the southern British tribes before the Roman invasion. Part II is about the actual Roman invasion of Britain and Caratacus's war against the invaders. The Sign of the Eagle is about his grown daughter, Macha, who married a Roman army tribune, wrongfully accused of treason and her efforts to prove his innocence.
I have two more novels, in the works, The Broken Lance and The Peacekeeper. These are novels that parallel The Sign of the Eagle trilogy but seen from the Roman perspective through the eyes of a Spanish centurion. They cover the years 44 A.D. - 69 A.D. They should be published sometime late in 2017.
Q: What’s your favorite place to hang out online?
Usually, Facebook.
Q: What’s your nightly ritual before retiring for the night?
Reading historical fiction.
Q: Finally, what message (if any) are you trying to get across with your book?
I am not trying to get across any specific message, just trying convey history in an entertaining and informative manner.
Q: Thank you again for this interview! Do you have any final words?
Your welcome. I would urge any perspective writer to develop a sense of self-discipline and be persistent, persistent, persistent!
My historical novel, The Wolf of Britannia, Part I, is on a virtual book tour during the month of May from the 2nd to the 27th. Below is an interview conducted as part of that tour. For more information check the following links: https://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Britannia... and http://thewriterslife.blogspot.com/20...
Interview by Dorothy Thompson, editor of The Writers Life e magazine.
Q: Welcome to The Writer's Life! Now that your book has been published, we’d love to find out more about the process. Can we begin by having you take us at the beginning? Where did you come up with the idea to write your book?
First of all, I have always liked reading historical fiction, especially, stories about the ancient world. My minor in college was Ancient Mediterranean Civilizations, and I have traveled extensively throughout the Mediterranean world and Western Europe, including England.
One of the things I noticed in reading historical fiction was that there was little written on the British Celtic king, Caratacus, who fought the Romans when they invaded Britain in 43 A.D. The major Celtic character of the First Century A.D. that has been written about extensively was the British Iceni Queen, Boudicca. After she and her daughters were humiliated and raped by the Romans, she rebelled against Rome in 60 A.D. destroying a Roman legion and killing thousands of British Romano sympathizers.
Yet, it was Caratacus who laid the ground work for this rebellion. He waged guerrilla warfare for eight years before he was betrayed and captured along with his wife and seven-year-old daughter (she is the main character in my first novel, The Sign of the Eagle). He and his family would survive the ordeal. However, we know little about him except what is written about him by the Roman historians, Tacitus and Cassius Dio. He has been mention extensive in modern history books dealing with the Roman invasion of Britain, but little written in historical fiction. I decided the time had come write about one of Britain's earliest genuine heroes.
Q: How hard was it to write a book like this and do you have any tips that you could pass on which would make the journey easier for other writers?
First of all, you need to learn how to write fiction. Take courses on creative writing/fiction in college or learn through a writers support group, I have done both. I am a member of the Spokane Novelist Group, Spokane, Washington. The group has been around for more than fifty years and most of the members are established authors. This is where I really learned to write fiction. They kept me honest. They didn't mince words when it came to critiquing my manuscripts. They trashed and trashed my work until I got it right.
Pick a topic you are interested in, not what someone else thinks you should write about. I am a retired police detective sergeant. When I first decided to write, most people figured I would write detective novels. This was the furthest thing from my mind. Twenty-five years of police work was enough for me. I had no interest in writing about crime except as to how it might relate in my historical novels.
Do your research. The old saying is true, "you write about what you know or what you have researched. In my case, it is what I have researched. I also traveled to the areas which I write about.
Q: Who is your publisher and how did you find them or did you self-publish?
My publisher is Sunbury Press (www.sunburypress.com), Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. They are a traditional small press, not a vanity/indie press. I submitted to several literary agents and publishers. They were the ones who accepted my novel for publication.
Q: Is there anything that surprised you about getting your first book published?
Actually, I surprised to how responsive the publisher was in answering my questions, and the same went for the assigned editor (she reviewed it three times and after each time I made the suggested corrections, although I had final say).
Q: What other books (if any) are you working on and when will they be published?
The Wolf of Britannia, Part I, is part of a trilogy that has already been published. The other two are,The Sign of the Eagle and The Wolf of Britannia, Part II. The Wolf of Britannia, Part I, is about Caratacus's rise to power. We see him as a young prince trying to unite the southern British tribes before the Roman invasion. Part II is about the actual Roman invasion of Britain and Caratacus's war against the invaders. The Sign of the Eagle is about his grown daughter, Macha, who married a Roman army tribune, wrongfully accused of treason and her efforts to prove his innocence.
I have two more novels, in the works, The Broken Lance and The Peacekeeper. These are novels that parallel The Sign of the Eagle trilogy but seen from the Roman perspective through the eyes of a Spanish centurion. They cover the years 44 A.D. - 69 A.D. They should be published sometime late in 2017.
Q: What’s your favorite place to hang out online?
Usually, Facebook.
Q: What’s your nightly ritual before retiring for the night?
Reading historical fiction.
Q: Finally, what message (if any) are you trying to get across with your book?
I am not trying to get across any specific message, just trying convey history in an entertaining and informative manner.
Q: Thank you again for this interview! Do you have any final words?
Your welcome. I would urge any perspective writer to develop a sense of self-discipline and be persistent, persistent, persistent!
May 3, 2016
Book Signing Follow-up
Another successful event at Barnes and Noble, Blossom Hill store, San Jose, California, yesterday, Saturday April 30th. This is a busy store and I met lots of interesting people including several former US Marines (I am a former Marine ) who bought copies of my novels from The Sign of the Eagle trilogy. A middle school teacher purchased all three volumes to use as supplemental reading in her 8th grade social studies class. Management was very pleased with my sales and I will return for another encore in October when I fly down to visit our son, Chris and his family.
I want to thank Community Relations Manager, Camille Gill and the rest of the B&N staff for all their assistance in making this a successful event.
I want to thank Community Relations Manager, Camille Gill and the rest of the B&N staff for all their assistance in making this a successful event.
Book Review - Amazon - The Wolf of Britannia, Part I & II
I thoroughly enjoyed the historical novel by Jess Steven Hughes, May 2, 2016
By LMB
Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: The Wolf of Britannia Part I & II(Paperback)
I thoroughly enjoyed the historical novel by Jess Steven Hughes, The Sign of the Eagle. Therefore, I was excited to read and had high expectations for the author's two prequel novels, The Wolf of Britannia part I and II. The author did not disappoint ! As I read the story, I was transported back in time to the first century A.D. The author does an amazing job of writing in a way that makes the reader feel like they are part of the story. The descriptions are vivid and believable and it helps the reader feel like they are actually there. As I turned each page, I felt like I was experiencing the action right along with the characters. I highly recommend these books if you love historical fiction or if you just love a fast paced, action filled, entertaining story. I truly look forward to reading more from this author in the future!
By LMB
Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: The Wolf of Britannia Part I & II(Paperback)
I thoroughly enjoyed the historical novel by Jess Steven Hughes, The Sign of the Eagle. Therefore, I was excited to read and had high expectations for the author's two prequel novels, The Wolf of Britannia part I and II. The author did not disappoint ! As I read the story, I was transported back in time to the first century A.D. The author does an amazing job of writing in a way that makes the reader feel like they are part of the story. The descriptions are vivid and believable and it helps the reader feel like they are actually there. As I turned each page, I felt like I was experiencing the action right along with the characters. I highly recommend these books if you love historical fiction or if you just love a fast paced, action filled, entertaining story. I truly look forward to reading more from this author in the future!
April 22, 2016
Book Signing Reminder
Book Signing Reminder. I will be signing copies from THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY, historical novels set in First Century A.D. Celtic Britain and Rome, @ Barnes & Noble, 18025 Garden Way NE, Woodinville, Washington, Saturday, April 23rd, 11 am/ 5 pm. Woodinville is just north of Seattle in the heart of horse riding country and home to more than 100 wineries. Drop by and get a signed copy of one of my novels and then visit your favorite winery.
April 19, 2016
Blog Update
Montana Book signing follow-up
What a successful weekend! This last Friday and Saturday (0415 & 041616), I signed copies of my historicals from THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY at Hastings Books, Music & Videos in Helena, Montana (Friday) and Billings, Montana (Saturday). Traveled through a lot of beautiful countryside, followed rivers (Clark Fork, Missouri and Yellowstone) and crossed majestic mountain ranges (e.g. the Montana Rockies at the Continental Divide, and the Bitteroots) to and from these cities from my home in Washington State.
That in itself almost made the trip worthwhile. At both stores, met a lot of interesting people, including many Native Americans from the Crow Indian Nation--good people. I also handed almost all my flyers out and signed lots of books.
I brought along for display, the original portrait used for the book cover, The Sign of the Eagle. This was painted by my niece, Artist Katrina Brennann, who is a professional artist. This received a lot of praise and many compliments.
I want to thank Helena store manager, Angelica, book manager, Mona, and Billings store manager, Kenna and book manager, Gus, for their assistance in making these two signings successful events.
(P.s. I forgot to write earlier that my book signing at Barnes & Noble, Spokane Valley, Washington, April 9th was also very successful).
Book Signings and Virtual Tour
Book Signings
I have to be honest, until I went to Helena and Billings, MT (see above), and with the exception of signings at Hastings, Moscow, ID (March 12) and Barnes & Noble, Spokane Valley, WA (April 9 & 10), the other signings were mediocre at best. That is why I am looking forward to the virtual book tour (see below) that is taking place in May. I am keeping my fingers cross that will be successful. In the meantime, I still will conduct signings at Barnes & Noble, Woodinville, Washington (April 23) and Barnes & Noble, Blossom Hill, San Jose, California (April 30). My most successful signings have been at Barnes & Noble stores this year.
Virtual Book Tour - The Wolf of Britannia, Part I
Wolf of Britannia, Part I Starting May 5th, my historical novel, The Wolf of Britannia, will be on a virtual book tour sponsored by Pump Up Your Book: Virtual Book Publicity Tours. Pumpupyourbook This group was recommended to me by my publisher, Sunbury Press.
"Pump Up Your Book is an award-winning publicity company placing first in the P&E Readers Poll for Best Book Promotion Company in 2014, 2013 and 2012."
They handle all of the aspects of virtual book touring from pre-buzzing my book before the tour starts to making sure buyers will find out about my book long after my tour is over. They take care of everything so a writer doesn’t have to. They set the tour up with book bloggers who will advertise my book by way of interviews, guest posts and reviews. They act as the go between so I can write. All of their tour hosts’ blogs have passed crucial tests so my book won’t end up on blogs that aren’t worth my time. Not only do they advertise my “stops,” but the book bloggers do, too. It’s a win-win situation for them as they get more hits and a win-win situation for the author as well.
A virtual book tour is all about getting your book information to as many people as they can and minimizing the bruises along the way. One of their company’s secrets is that I don’t need to pay thousands of dollars to get the same top-of-the-line performance I can get from us by paying less. Pump Up Your Book has quite a few authors whose books have become Amazon bestsellers and we’re happy with the results.
They will be promoting my book to their over 8,000 genuine Twitter followers and over 6,000 genuine Facebook followers (which means these are genuine likes and not bought) and they will be sending my book information to their email list with over 800 bloggers with high standards in virtual book tour policies.
I am looking forward to seeing the end results. Wish me good luck!
The Sons of Zeus
In my last blog, I had mention I was reading the historical novel, set in ancient Greece, The Sons of the Zeus. Below is my review which can also be found on Amazon. Amazon Review of the Sons of Zeus
Review - The Sons of Zeus
"If you like action, suspense, political intrigue and romance, set during an actual historical event in Ancient Greece, this novel is for you.
The author took a little known but important event that started the Peloponnesian War in 431 B.C., marking the bloody war between the democracy of Athens and the tyranny of Sparta which lasted more than twenty-five years. This was the sneak attack by Thebes, aligned with Sparta, against Athens ally, Plataea. Caught between these superpowers, the independent city-state became the arena where their battle for control of all of Greece began.
In this mix we find the young Greek Nikias, who dreams of glory in the Olympic games as he trains for the pankration―the no-holds-barred ultimate fighting of the era (much like today's cage fighting but far brutal). Unfortunately, he accused of raping the woman he loves by her family and killing one of her brothers. He is arrested and imprisoned. While in jail, a traitor opens the city gates to a surprise attack force of Thebans.
As the Plataeans fight for their lives, Nikias makes a daring escape from prison and flees to the countryside. He gathers the city's border guards and a hodge-podge of volunteers and leads them into a suicidal battle at the gates of the citadel.
I will not tell you the story's ending. However, it is obvious the author has conducted a masterful job of research, not only about the political events, but everyday life in ancient Greece. He brings his characters, historical and fictional, to life. You either love or hate them. He uses the five senses of sight, smell, feel, taste and touch to maximum effect.
But above all else, Noble Smith tells a masterful story. Again I say, STORY, not HISTORY. Keep this in mind when reading the novel. If you want to read a history of the Peloponnesian War, I suggest you look elsewhere, e.g. The Peloponnesian War by Thucydides or a book by a more contemporary author."
This novel rates a genuine five stars.
How ancient horse-dung bacteria is helping determine where Hannibal crossed the Alps
DESPITE THOUSANDS OF YEARS OF HARD WORK BY BRILLIANT SCHOLARS, THE GREAT ENIGMA OF WHERE HANNIBAL CROSSED THE ALPS TO INVADE ITALY REMAINED UNSOLVED.
"But now it looks like we may just have cracked it – all thanks to modern science and a bit of ancient horse poo. As a microbiologist, I was part of the team that carried out the research.
Hannibal was the leader of the Carthaginian army during the Second Punic War with Rome (218-201BC). He famously led his 30,000 assorted troops (including 37 elephants and over 15,000 horses) across the Alps to invade Italy – bringing the Roman war machine to its knees. While the great general was ultimately defeated after 16 years of bloody conflict, this campaign is now regarded as one of the finest military endeavours of antiquity. We can say, in retrospect, that these events ultimately shaped the later Roman Empire and therefore the European civilization as we know it.
For more than 2,000 years historians, statesmen and academics have argued about the route he took. Even Napoleon is known to have shown an interest. But until now, there’s not been any solid archaeological evidence. For further reading see the following link." -excerpt from author Chris Allen, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Microbiology, Queen's University Belfast Heritagedaily.com
The Broken Lance - Update
On March 30th, I emailed the manuscript of The Broken Lance/The Peacekeeper to my "book doctor" for review. She is a former editor who was with St. Martins Press for eight years, and I used her for The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy. She will take one month to review it. However, less than a week after sending the project to her, I received a message from her. She said this was "...the best you have written so far and has been a real pleasure to read." I will keep my fingers cross that will continue to be the case as she works her way through the script. It will be divided into two stories. I have asked for her advice on where I should make the break. I will have to write an new opening chapter for the second one, The Peacekeeper.
New Project - Return to Britannia (Working title only)
The research for new novel is progressing slowly. Unfortunately projects around our four acre home have gotten in the way of my writing. I have written a crude draft of chapter one but must complete a better draft before reading it to the Spokane Novelist Group. The story is about Macha returning to Britannia with her husband who is investing the murders of government officials. There is more to the investigation than meets the eye.
That is about it for now. Hope you can make to one of the remaining book signings or will at least purchase one of my novels. In the meantime, Ave At Que Vale! Hail and Farewell!
What a successful weekend! This last Friday and Saturday (0415 & 041616), I signed copies of my historicals from THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY at Hastings Books, Music & Videos in Helena, Montana (Friday) and Billings, Montana (Saturday). Traveled through a lot of beautiful countryside, followed rivers (Clark Fork, Missouri and Yellowstone) and crossed majestic mountain ranges (e.g. the Montana Rockies at the Continental Divide, and the Bitteroots) to and from these cities from my home in Washington State.
That in itself almost made the trip worthwhile. At both stores, met a lot of interesting people, including many Native Americans from the Crow Indian Nation--good people. I also handed almost all my flyers out and signed lots of books.
I brought along for display, the original portrait used for the book cover, The Sign of the Eagle. This was painted by my niece, Artist Katrina Brennann, who is a professional artist. This received a lot of praise and many compliments.
I want to thank Helena store manager, Angelica, book manager, Mona, and Billings store manager, Kenna and book manager, Gus, for their assistance in making these two signings successful events.
(P.s. I forgot to write earlier that my book signing at Barnes & Noble, Spokane Valley, Washington, April 9th was also very successful).
Book Signings and Virtual Tour
Book Signings
I have to be honest, until I went to Helena and Billings, MT (see above), and with the exception of signings at Hastings, Moscow, ID (March 12) and Barnes & Noble, Spokane Valley, WA (April 9 & 10), the other signings were mediocre at best. That is why I am looking forward to the virtual book tour (see below) that is taking place in May. I am keeping my fingers cross that will be successful. In the meantime, I still will conduct signings at Barnes & Noble, Woodinville, Washington (April 23) and Barnes & Noble, Blossom Hill, San Jose, California (April 30). My most successful signings have been at Barnes & Noble stores this year.
Virtual Book Tour - The Wolf of Britannia, Part I
Wolf of Britannia, Part I Starting May 5th, my historical novel, The Wolf of Britannia, will be on a virtual book tour sponsored by Pump Up Your Book: Virtual Book Publicity Tours. Pumpupyourbook This group was recommended to me by my publisher, Sunbury Press.
"Pump Up Your Book is an award-winning publicity company placing first in the P&E Readers Poll for Best Book Promotion Company in 2014, 2013 and 2012."
They handle all of the aspects of virtual book touring from pre-buzzing my book before the tour starts to making sure buyers will find out about my book long after my tour is over. They take care of everything so a writer doesn’t have to. They set the tour up with book bloggers who will advertise my book by way of interviews, guest posts and reviews. They act as the go between so I can write. All of their tour hosts’ blogs have passed crucial tests so my book won’t end up on blogs that aren’t worth my time. Not only do they advertise my “stops,” but the book bloggers do, too. It’s a win-win situation for them as they get more hits and a win-win situation for the author as well.
A virtual book tour is all about getting your book information to as many people as they can and minimizing the bruises along the way. One of their company’s secrets is that I don’t need to pay thousands of dollars to get the same top-of-the-line performance I can get from us by paying less. Pump Up Your Book has quite a few authors whose books have become Amazon bestsellers and we’re happy with the results.
They will be promoting my book to their over 8,000 genuine Twitter followers and over 6,000 genuine Facebook followers (which means these are genuine likes and not bought) and they will be sending my book information to their email list with over 800 bloggers with high standards in virtual book tour policies.
I am looking forward to seeing the end results. Wish me good luck!
The Sons of Zeus
In my last blog, I had mention I was reading the historical novel, set in ancient Greece, The Sons of the Zeus. Below is my review which can also be found on Amazon. Amazon Review of the Sons of Zeus
Review - The Sons of Zeus
"If you like action, suspense, political intrigue and romance, set during an actual historical event in Ancient Greece, this novel is for you.
The author took a little known but important event that started the Peloponnesian War in 431 B.C., marking the bloody war between the democracy of Athens and the tyranny of Sparta which lasted more than twenty-five years. This was the sneak attack by Thebes, aligned with Sparta, against Athens ally, Plataea. Caught between these superpowers, the independent city-state became the arena where their battle for control of all of Greece began.
In this mix we find the young Greek Nikias, who dreams of glory in the Olympic games as he trains for the pankration―the no-holds-barred ultimate fighting of the era (much like today's cage fighting but far brutal). Unfortunately, he accused of raping the woman he loves by her family and killing one of her brothers. He is arrested and imprisoned. While in jail, a traitor opens the city gates to a surprise attack force of Thebans.
As the Plataeans fight for their lives, Nikias makes a daring escape from prison and flees to the countryside. He gathers the city's border guards and a hodge-podge of volunteers and leads them into a suicidal battle at the gates of the citadel.
I will not tell you the story's ending. However, it is obvious the author has conducted a masterful job of research, not only about the political events, but everyday life in ancient Greece. He brings his characters, historical and fictional, to life. You either love or hate them. He uses the five senses of sight, smell, feel, taste and touch to maximum effect.
But above all else, Noble Smith tells a masterful story. Again I say, STORY, not HISTORY. Keep this in mind when reading the novel. If you want to read a history of the Peloponnesian War, I suggest you look elsewhere, e.g. The Peloponnesian War by Thucydides or a book by a more contemporary author."
This novel rates a genuine five stars.
How ancient horse-dung bacteria is helping determine where Hannibal crossed the Alps
DESPITE THOUSANDS OF YEARS OF HARD WORK BY BRILLIANT SCHOLARS, THE GREAT ENIGMA OF WHERE HANNIBAL CROSSED THE ALPS TO INVADE ITALY REMAINED UNSOLVED.
"But now it looks like we may just have cracked it – all thanks to modern science and a bit of ancient horse poo. As a microbiologist, I was part of the team that carried out the research.
Hannibal was the leader of the Carthaginian army during the Second Punic War with Rome (218-201BC). He famously led his 30,000 assorted troops (including 37 elephants and over 15,000 horses) across the Alps to invade Italy – bringing the Roman war machine to its knees. While the great general was ultimately defeated after 16 years of bloody conflict, this campaign is now regarded as one of the finest military endeavours of antiquity. We can say, in retrospect, that these events ultimately shaped the later Roman Empire and therefore the European civilization as we know it.
For more than 2,000 years historians, statesmen and academics have argued about the route he took. Even Napoleon is known to have shown an interest. But until now, there’s not been any solid archaeological evidence. For further reading see the following link." -excerpt from author Chris Allen, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Microbiology, Queen's University Belfast Heritagedaily.com
The Broken Lance - Update
On March 30th, I emailed the manuscript of The Broken Lance/The Peacekeeper to my "book doctor" for review. She is a former editor who was with St. Martins Press for eight years, and I used her for The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy. She will take one month to review it. However, less than a week after sending the project to her, I received a message from her. She said this was "...the best you have written so far and has been a real pleasure to read." I will keep my fingers cross that will continue to be the case as she works her way through the script. It will be divided into two stories. I have asked for her advice on where I should make the break. I will have to write an new opening chapter for the second one, The Peacekeeper.
New Project - Return to Britannia (Working title only)
The research for new novel is progressing slowly. Unfortunately projects around our four acre home have gotten in the way of my writing. I have written a crude draft of chapter one but must complete a better draft before reading it to the Spokane Novelist Group. The story is about Macha returning to Britannia with her husband who is investing the murders of government officials. There is more to the investigation than meets the eye.
That is about it for now. Hope you can make to one of the remaining book signings or will at least purchase one of my novels. In the meantime, Ave At Que Vale! Hail and Farewell!
April 6, 2016
Book Review - The Sons of Zeus
Please check out my review of the historical novel, set in ancient Greece, THE SONS OF ZEUS, by Noble Smith.
April 4, 2016
For Sale
FOR SALE. I am selling a limited number of SIGNED COPIES of the epic historical novel, THE WOLF OF BRITANNIA, PART II @ 10.95 plus 3.95 shipping (USA customers only. Sorry world, I won't deal with foreign exchange & postal rates and import duties). This is a trade paperback. You can't get this low rate at Amazon. Check or money order only. If interested, email me at jessstevenhughes@hotmail.com as where to send payment.
The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, is a breathtaking historical novel of action and suspense set in the years between 43 and 60 AD, in the mysterious land of ancient Britain and the majestic palaces of Rome. In the first millennium's early days, the Romans held power over most of the world's people through disciplined savagery, yet many citizens fought to break from tyranny. This painstaking researched tale is of one such fight for freedom.
In the wilds of Britain, the soon-to-be-legendary King Caratacus and his tribe of Celtic warriors are facing down the seemingly unbeatable Roman army.
After winning the southern British throne, Caratacus leads his people as they strive for freedom from the iron-fisted Roman rule that has nearly obliterated their culture and lifestyle. As the king fights to keep his people free, he must also battle his beautiful, conniving, and lascivious cousin−a queen who wants Caratacus for herself. The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, is the story of one daring man, willing to risk his life to destroy the entire Roman army.
The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, is a breathtaking historical novel of action and suspense set in the years between 43 and 60 AD, in the mysterious land of ancient Britain and the majestic palaces of Rome. In the first millennium's early days, the Romans held power over most of the world's people through disciplined savagery, yet many citizens fought to break from tyranny. This painstaking researched tale is of one such fight for freedom.
In the wilds of Britain, the soon-to-be-legendary King Caratacus and his tribe of Celtic warriors are facing down the seemingly unbeatable Roman army.
After winning the southern British throne, Caratacus leads his people as they strive for freedom from the iron-fisted Roman rule that has nearly obliterated their culture and lifestyle. As the king fights to keep his people free, he must also battle his beautiful, conniving, and lascivious cousin−a queen who wants Caratacus for herself. The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, is the story of one daring man, willing to risk his life to destroy the entire Roman army.
April 1, 2016
Book Signing Reminder
BOOK SIGNING REMINDER. I will be signing copies of THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY @ Hastings Books, Music & Videos 2501 Brook St., Missoula, Montana, Saturday, April 2, 1 - 7 pm. The books are also available on Kindle.
The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy consists of three exciting action-pack historical novels set in First Century Celtic Britain and ancient Rome.
The Wolf of Britannia, Part I & II, are breathtaking historical novels of action and suspense set in the years between 27 and 60 A.D., in the mysterious land of ancient Britain and the majestic palaces of Rome. In the first millennium's early days, the Romans held power over most of the world's people through disciplined savagery, yet many citizens fought to break from tyranny. This painstaking researched tale is one such fight for freedom.
The Sign of the Eagle is the breathtaking historical novel of action and suspense is set in the year 71 A.D. amid the exotic and vibrant streets of Ancient Rome. Macha, the strong-willed daughter of a legendary Celtic British king, Caratacus, and wife of the Roman tribune, Titus, is the only one who can prove her husband innocent of treason.
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The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy consists of three exciting action-pack historical novels set in First Century Celtic Britain and ancient Rome.
The Wolf of Britannia, Part I & II, are breathtaking historical novels of action and suspense set in the years between 27 and 60 A.D., in the mysterious land of ancient Britain and the majestic palaces of Rome. In the first millennium's early days, the Romans held power over most of the world's people through disciplined savagery, yet many citizens fought to break from tyranny. This painstaking researched tale is one such fight for freedom.
The Sign of the Eagle is the breathtaking historical novel of action and suspense is set in the year 71 A.D. amid the exotic and vibrant streets of Ancient Rome. Macha, the strong-willed daughter of a legendary Celtic British king, Caratacus, and wife of the Roman tribune, Titus, is the only one who can prove her husband innocent of treason.
http://www.amazon.com/Sign-Eagle-e…/…...…
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