Up Around the Corner

Seventh Star Press published my article: Firearms in Fiction

2012-01-24T22:20:00.000-05:00

If you have a moment click on over to Seventh Star Press, where they published my article that discusses how authors unfamiliar with firearms can better incorporate them in their writing.

Link: Firearms in Fiction

Audio Version of Flank Hawk being Proofed

2012-01-15T16:11:00.000-05:00

I've received a copy of the audio files for Flank Hawk. I and my publisher are reviewing them, trying to catch any minor errors that might have crept in. The quality of the reader (Michael Slusser) narrating the story is excellent.

I've long been a fan of audio books and the fact that Flank Hawk will soon be available as one is extremely cool.

I'll post more news as it becomes available.

What I'm Currently Reading

2012-01-08T20:30:00.000-05:00

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It's rare for me to be reading two books at one time, but currently I am.

First, I'm reading The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis. I've read it before (as well has having listened to it several times on CD). It's an interesting philosophical book that delves into why pain exists in the world. In addition, I am preparing lessons for the Adult Sunday School Class at the St. Paris UMC this spring as it will be what we're reading.

Second, I'm reading Confessions of a D-List Supervillain by Jim Bernheimer. So far it's a fun, fast read--quippy and humorous and keeps me turning pages. He's done a great job converting what's normally comic book (or at least graphic novel) material into a short novel.
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Funny Commercial

2012-01-03T06:23:00.005-05:00

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I came across this commercial while grading papers and the TV was playing in the background.

I think it's funny. Plain funny!

Article: The RPG Experience to Writing a Novel

2012-01-01T17:00:00.000-05:00

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Mythic Scribes published my article The RPG Experience to Writing a Novel.

If you've got a moment, click on over and give it a read.
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It's Official

2011-12-31T13:52:00.000-05:00

Tristan and myself being Sworn
in by Judge Fornof-Lippencott

Last night I was sworn in as a member of the St. Paris Village Council by Judge Susan Fornof-Lippencott, along with new fellow Council Member Tristan Bogan and Mayor Seth Bair.

The real/hard work begins January 2nd.

Flank Hawk Audio Book Update

2011-12-29T19:53:00.000-05:00

As a few folks have contacted me about the audio version of Flank Hawk being released I figured I'd briefly address it here.

After exchanging a few emails with my publisher, the reading of the book is complete. It's being edited and put together. There isn't an exact release date yet. I'll post more information when it's available.

Writing a Sequel: My Guest Blog at Indie Book Blog

2011-12-27T18:22:00.000-05:00

If you have a moment or two, click on over to the Indie Book Blog where I discuss how I learned to write a sequel (Blood Sword).

It was tricky (at least for me) writing the second novel as a standalone while complementing Flank Hawk, the first novel in the First Civilization's Legacy series.

Link:
Guest blog with Terry W. Ervin II: Writing a Sequel
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Conan the Destroyer

2011-12-21T22:01:00.000-05:00

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I know this movie has detractors, but really, I enjoyed Conan the Destroyer when it first came out and enjoy popping it in the DVD player on occasion.

Fun, action adventure that doesn't try to take itself too seriously.

Chance to Win a Signed Copy of Blood Sword or Flank Hawk

2011-12-17T21:37:00.000-05:00

Are you interested in obtaining a free signed copy of Flank Hawk or Blood Sword?

There is an unofficial fan club for readers of the First Civilization's Legacy series recently started by several readers of the series. If you join Flankers (a Facebook fan club), your name will be put in a drawing for a signed copy (to be sent to you or to someone you designate as a gift).

Join, look around and get in on the discussions and fun!

Link: Flankers, the Unofficial First Civilization's Legacy series fan club

The drawing is open for new members until January 1, 2012.

Book Signing in Zanesville Ohio December 10th

2011-12-08T19:41:00.001-05:00

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I will be one of 20 authors selling and signing books at the 2011 Holiday Book Fair.

When: Saturday, Dec. 10 from 11am to 7pm
Where: The Colony Square Mall in Zanesville, Ohio (3575 Maple Avenue)
Location: Near the JC Penney Store

If you're in the area, hope to see you there!
`

Seventh Star Press Names Blood Sword as its Pick of the Week

2011-12-06T22:17:00.001-05:00

If you have a moment, click on over and see the positive remarks Seventh Star Press had to say about Blood Sword!

Link: Pick of the Week: Blood Sword, by Terry W. Ervin II

Woolly Mammoth: Cloned from Bone Marrow, possibly within 5 Years

2011-12-03T16:03:00.001-05:00

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Came across this article where it discusses undamaged mammoth DNA obtain in Siberia through a recently discovered thigh bone: Woolly mammoth to be brought back to life from cloned bone marrow 'within five years'

Apparently finding the necessary undamaged DNA has finally been achieved, so Russian and Japanese scientists are working to make the Woolly Mammoth no longer an extinct species.

I think it's pretty cool.
`

It's Official: Village Councilman Elect

2011-11-28T22:42:00.000-05:00

Wordsower International - Worthwhile of Donations

2011-11-19T12:41:00.000-05:00

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Wordsower International is one of the places I make donations (I donated my last royalty check--not major but every little bit makes a difference in the lives of those in Libera).

Below is an update and report sent by Kim Smith, a former co-worker of mine who now does missionary work in Liberia full-time.

Solo Town Students Receive Books

Wordsower International: Liberia Branch

October, 2011 Ministry Report

The mission of Jesus; “not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Pet 3:9 NIV), is also our mission.

We evangelize and train indigenous believers and then help equip them to evangelize, disciple, pastor and be missionaries to their own people. We equip them by giving them training material to train others, provide Bibles, and assist with transportation.

Our mission is that every village of Liberia will have a healthy church. Most of the towns and villages of Liberia have no church. We have worked in over 150 villages. This month we made 60 mission/ministry trips, visiting 82 villages and other locations, going into 11 new locations. Many of the places we visited multiple times, our longest trip was 7 days, shortest a few hours. We printed and distributed approximately 14,200 pages of teaching material and distributed hundreds of Bibles. This month we baptized 42 and 19 completed our extensive Bible study program.

Several factors affect how many mission trips we can go on each month; illness, injuries, motorbikes repaired, and the availability of gas and money are some.

One of our men retuned from a new remote village. Before he even got off the bike he passionately said, “People are dying. They have no shepherd, and they really love the gospel! They loved us and want us to quickly return.” Another team reported that 355 people from two villages attended their teaching. The Liberians, in the interior, are spiritually hungry and want spiritual food, now!

France comes through! Months ago they purchased and sent us 2,000 Bibles (1,900 more were also donated by Christian Aid Ministries) and 4,000 tracts. The load traveled by sea, fought corrupt customs, set in a warehouse in Monrovia because of bad roads during the rainy season, spent 3 days traveling 300 miles of bad road…but finally safely arrived! Amen!

Almost all of the 1000’s upon 1000’s of refugees who walked across the border into Liberia for safety came with little or nothing. Few have Bibles. The Holy Spirit is moving throughout the camps, causing a great spiritual hunger. We have started distributing Bibles with lessons to the spiritual leaders. When they complete the lessons they will distribute Bibles and lessons to those they disciple, those who are discipled will be given supplies to do the same (2 Tim 2:2). Already we have trained many leaders who have started churches in the camps. Now these house (tent) churches are themselves starting churches. In the coming months we will see a great harvest from those in the camps. In the coming years we will see a great harvest as those who have been trained return home.

USA comes through! At the same time France had a load coming by sea so did the US. We received both shipments here in Zwedru at the same time. The US shipped 100’s of pounds of supplies including 1000’s of printed lessons, school supplies for our two schools, motorbike spare parts and an assortment of other needed items.

One of the Churches Started

October, 2011 Ministry Expense Report

Ministry expenses:
$2,416 – Paper, gas for the generator, pens, folders, Bibles and mission trips.

$814 – Motor bike gas and repair, we now have 8 bikes (Gas prices range between $5.50 - $9.00 a gallon)

$65 – School related, we have started two schools (teacher pay, student fees, and supplies).

Assistance to the poor:
$470 – Humanitarian assistance: including food (average cost is $1.50 a day for food), rent, home repair, etc.

$113 – Medical expenses (average treatment cost is $1.00 - $10.00)

House construction:
$144 – We continue to do small construction on our place.

Team food and house supplies:
$1,380 – Food and house supplies (close estimate). Our core team consists of 13 adults and 17 children. That averages out to $1.53 a day per person to cover, clothes, food, batteries, soap etc. Really, our team uses less than that per day because we feed visitors every day from the interior, refugees, and locals from our house funds.

$5,399 - Total for the month

Donations should be sent to:
Wordsower International
16960 Sidney Plattsville Rd.
Sidney, Ohio 45365

All donations are tax deductible. A receipt will be sent in January. 100% of all donations go for the mission to the Liberians. None is used for me or administration. If you have any questions concerning donations you may call Tom Looker at 937-489-8090.

Thank you,

Kim

Solo Town Students Receive Backpacks

Wedding Ceremony

Print version of Blood Sword now now Available via Amazon.com

2011-11-15T18:53:00.000-05:00

Those who have been awaiting word, Blood Sword is now available in print via Amazon.com.

Link: Blood Sword (Print)

As posted previously, it's also available as an ebook via Kindle, Nook and Smashwords.

Note: The image will appear in Amazon soon, and some of the novel description will be cleaned up, but I wanted to let those who've been asking know ASAP.

When it's available via Barnes and Noble, I'll post it as well.

O Fortuna by Carl Orff

2011-11-12T21:33:00.000-05:00

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My first solid memory of O Fortuna comes from a scene in the 1981 movie, Excalibur. A memorable movie for several reasons. Maybe I'll write a blog post about it some day.

Those who know me know I'm not a big listener of music, but this composition has really stuck with me through the years. It crops up in television and movies, and even occasionally bits in commercials.

O Fortuna plays a small part in my novel, Blood Sword. I guess it's interesting to ponder what can show up in a post-apocalyptic action-adventure fantasy novel.

In any case, below is a link to the song and lyrics (both Latin and English). Listen and enjoy, and consider its message.

Blood Sword now available via through Barnes & Noble's Nook

2011-11-09T20:29:00.001-05:00

Blood Sword is now available via the Nook!

Link: Blood Sword via Nook

November 8th Election Results

2011-11-08T22:53:00.000-05:00

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For those who might be interested, here is the count for Village Council of St. Paris:

Member of Council - St. Paris

Vote For Not More Than 2

Tristan Bogan . . . . . . . . . 343 = 37.20%

Terry W. Ervin II. . . . . . . . 298 = 32.32%

Lynn G. Miller. . . . . . . . . 281 = 30.48%

With a second place finish, that means the citizens of St. Paris have given me the opportunity to serve on the Village Council. I am quite honored and will do my best for them and the village. Thank you!
`

Guest Post at My First Book

2011-11-04T18:06:00.000-04:00

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If you have a moment, click on over to Misha's Blog (My First Book) and check out my article on The Best “How To” Books for Writers.

The information and advice might surprise you...or maybe not :)

`

Blood Sword ebook version Available!

2011-11-02T20:38:00.001-04:00

Blood Sword, the second novel in the First Civilization's Legacy series is now available via Kindle USA, Kindle UK and Smashwords. Nook is still in the works.

Print edition availability coming soon!

Political Signs, Ads and Interviews

2011-10-31T18:51:00.000-04:00

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As was noted previously, I'm running to be elected to the St. Paris Village Council.

About 20 Political Signs have been placed around town.

Thank you to all who volunteered
and/or allowed me to place signs in your yards!

I've had several interviews with the Springfield Sun News and the Urbana Daily Citizen (with one more I believe yet to be published after a phone interview).

Springfield Sun News

Urbana Daily Citizen
(Yes, they referred to me by my first name)

I've run an ad in The Booster.

Booster Ad

And yes, I've been asked questions by the citizens around town. My goal is to be honest and open-minded in all discussions. Always fun and interesting (okay usually fun but always interesting).

In any case, in about a week we'll see what happens.
`

Blood Sword Cover Revealed!

2011-10-23T20:26:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Artist Christine Griffin and David Wood at Gryphonwood Press for creating, putting it together and making it all possible!

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Flank Hawk soon to be an Audiobook!

2011-10-19T18:44:00.000-04:00

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My publisher has a contract in the mail for Flank Hawk to be an audiobook.

I was able to listen to the reader's audition and it was excellent. I listen to quite a few audiobooks while driving and his voice, inflection, pacing, etc. is already one of my favorites.

Details will follow.

Presenting at Y-City Writers Conference October 8th

2011-10-03T19:36:00.003-04:00

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I will be speaking at the Y-City Writers Conference on October 8th. It looks to be great event:

2011 Y-City Writers Conference Schedule

8:00 – 9:00 a.m. Registration, Breakfast, & Greet the Authors in the Gym

9:00 – 9:15 a.m. Welcoming Remarks & Introduction of Keynote Speaker: Bob Welsh

9:15-10:00 a.m. Keynote address: Bob Welsh

*10:15-11:00 a.m. Session I
A___ Terry Ervin “Escaping the Slush Pile: Cover Letter, Synopsis and First Three Chapters”
B___ Sandra Gurvis “Freelancing in a Rocky Economy”

*11:15-12:00 p.m. Session II
A___ Sharon Fish Mooney “Poems that Tell Stories: Exploring the Narrative”
B___ Bob Birch “Warming up the Romance”

12:00-1:00 p.m. LUNCH

1:00 – 1:15 Announcement of the winners for “The Sign in the Window” contest and

Introduction of afternoon Keynote Speaker: Tiffany Colter

1:15- 2:00 p.m. Keynote address: Tiffany Colter

*2:15-3:00 p.m. Session III
A___ Debbie Alferio “Creating Credible Characters”
B___ Brenda Layman “You Can Write and Sell Your Book”

*3:15-4:00 p.m. Session IV
A____ Julie Scudder Dearyan “Writing for Magazines”
B____ Donna MacMeans “The W- Plot”

Raffle/Door Prizes, Conference Concludes

It is to be held at:
Coburn United Methodist
3618 N. Maple Avenue
Zanesville, Ohio 43701
`

Blood Sword Release Date: November 1st!

2011-09-24T11:58:00.000-04:00

Gryphonwood Press has set the official release date for Blood Sword, the second novel in the First Civilization's Legacy series, for November 1, 2011.

Although a sequel to Flank Hawk (with many characters returning to play a part), Blood Sword is written to stand alone so that readers new to the series can jump right in with the latest release.

I'll post more news and details about the novel and cover art as it becomes available.

Review of Flank Hawk over at Indie Book Blog

2011-09-22T08:44:00.000-04:00

Click on over to the Indie Book Blog and check out what they had to say about Flank Hawk. And don't hesitate to leave a comment if you're so inclined.

Link: Review of Flank Hawk by Terry W. Ervin II
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Gift from a Reader of Flank Hawk

2011-09-19T05:48:00.020-04:00

Through my wife, I received a tatted green dragon from a reader.
(see picture below)

I think it's beyond cool that a reader enjoyed Flank Hawk enough to give something to the author in return.
`

First Political Event: Ponywagon Days Parade Sept. 2011

2011-09-17T07:06:00.000-04:00

Me in my wife's Camaro ready for the Parade

My Wife Waving to the Crowd

The funniest comment heard during the parade? A teen shouting: "Hey, what's a car like that doing in St. Paris?"
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Shelby County Applefest 2011

2011-09-07T21:49:00.001-04:00

I, along with about a dozen other authors, will be attending the Applefest in Sidney, Ohio on September 10th from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm.

We'll be located in the Court House to talk with readers and sign copies of our works. Signs will be placed around the festival to direct folks our way.

If you're in the area, hope to see you there.

Pick of the Week (#1): Flank Hawk, by Terry W Ervin II (Gryphonwood Press)

2011-09-05T14:45:00.000-04:00

Stephen Zimmer has selected Flank Hawk as SSP's very first Pick of the Week.

Click on over to Seventh Star Press's Pick of the Week and see what Stephen had to say about Flank Hawk and a few other things. You'll even get to see a semi-rare photo of me with a snazzy tie.
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Venturing into the World of Politics

2011-09-03T13:15:00.002-04:00

The Wizard of Oz: How it Should Have Ended

2011-09-02T06:17:00.001-04:00

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As a writer, one needs to be aware that what logically should happen...instead of forcing the plot in a 'desired' direction. Readers might notice.

For example...

Still, the munchkin's bid for offing the witch might have failed. Then he'd have been in big trouble.

Nevertheless, the plot's alternate direction certainly has a ripple effect.
`

Local Places: County Fair 2011

2011-08-26T16:24:00.000-04:00

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I have fond memories of going to the Ottawa County Fair as a kid.

I lived in Toledo, but our family was good friends with a family that lived in on a farm outside Elmore, Ohio, so we'd always spend a summer day there with them. The rides, food and animals--and the demolition derby--fun stuff as a kid.

My wife and I now make a point of taking our daughters to the Champaign County Fair each year. They participate with their dojo in a karate demonstration and then we eat, check out the livestock and then make our way to the rides and a fair food snack. Always, the last thing before going home is picking up some cotton candy.

Below are a few pictures from this year.

Checking out the Horses

Outside one of the Cattle Barns

A few of the Games

The Rocket Ride

One of the 'Fair Food' Vendors

For writers that visit my blog, don't think for a moment that there aren't people and plot ideas waiting to be discovered at the local fair.
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Air Force Museum Virtual Tour: How Cool is That?

2011-08-24T06:18:00.001-04:00

I've posted a time or two about visiting the National Museum of the U. S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. In my online wandering I learned that they have a virtual tour of the entire museum.

It's pretty neat. You can walk through by clicking on blue arrows across the floor, or pulling down the map and selecting a spot. You can alter your view by simple arrows to look left or right (complete circle), and up and down.

There's even available audio for the tour.

Go ahead and give it at try!

Link: U.S. Air Force Museum Virtual Tour
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Harry Potter: How it Should have Ended (Humor)

2011-08-20T19:42:00.000-04:00

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If you haven't stumbled across this yet...

...be sure to watch to the very end.
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John Wayne Quote from True Grit

2011-08-19T11:02:00.001-04:00

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A famous line from one of John Wayne's best movies, kicking off the climax.

I know they remade the movie, but in my opinion nothing will ever top the original:

If, for some reason, you've never seen the original True Grit, you really should make a point to do so.
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Interesting Article: Spoilers 'do not ruin stories', study says

2011-08-18T08:58:00.000-04:00

I came across this article (link: Spoilers 'do not ruin stories', study says) on the BBC website.

Interesting premise that makes sense. I guess it depends on the reader and the story being told.

The article made me think about writing in First Person POV, which I often use. Some readers have commented to me that they don't care to read First Person POV because they believe it means that, no matter what, the POV character will always survive.

Maybe this is true for many novels and stories. However, in the third novel of a SF series I have planned, the POV character does meet his end. I even have his final bit of dialogue written. (For what it's worth, the first novel in the series is written and has successfully run the slush gauntlet. It's awaiting a decision by the managing editor--been there a while so not holding my breath.)

What do you think about spoilers and/or First Person POV?

Fellow Gryphonwood author David Wood interviewed at The Creative Pen

2011-08-11T05:42:00.007-04:00

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Fellow Gryphonwood author David Wood (who has consistently sold well enough for a year to eclipse his day job earnings--thus recently retiring to write full time) is interviewed at The Creative Pen.

Check out the video interview (or as a podcast) where David discussed writing Action/Thriller novels, among many other things.

Link: Writing Thrillers and Action Adventure with David Wood

Hampton Reviews review of Flank Hawk

2011-08-09T17:19:00.001-04:00

Click on over and see what Hampton Reviews had to say about Flank Hawk where it earned 4.5 Stars.

Link: Review of Flank Hawk at Hampton Reviews

Don't hesitate to leave a comment there if you're so inclined.
`

Quote: C.S. Lewis

2011-08-04T16:43:00.000-04:00

"The task of the modern educator is not to cut down jungles, but to irrigate deserts." --C. S. Lewis

Makes a lot of sense.

And, if you're looking for an interesting and thought-provoking read, check out The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis. Tag along on a bus ride with a curious inhabitant of The Grey Town as he journeys to the Foothills of Heaven. I might add that the audio version is an excellent choice for those seeking something to fill time on the road.

I also have a 13 week Lesson Guide for The Great Divorce.
`

"Seconds to Eternity" Published in Loconeal's Anthology

2011-08-02T16:32:00.000-04:00

My SF short story

"Seconds to Eternity"

is now available through Loconeal Publishing's
Loco-Thology anthology.

If you're interested it's available through:
Amazon and Barnes & Noble as well as the publisher.
`

Disquieting Visions Published: A Challenge in Writing Fantasy Short Stories

2011-07-28T14:21:00.000-04:00

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Disquieting Visions published my article:

Link: A Challenge in Writing Fantasy Short Stories

While relevant to all writers of short fiction, it focuses in on a particular aspect of writing fantasy.
Click on over and give it a read.
`

Hocking Hills 2011

2011-07-27T10:18:00.001-04:00

Here are a few pictures from the day I spent hiking with my older daughter at Hocking Hills State Park.

Along the trail to Old Man's Cave

It's only about a two hour drive from our home and visiting the park (and its trails, caves and water falls) is something my older daughter and I strive to accomplish as father and daughter each summer. Yes, someday my younger daughter will be included--in a few years. The trip involves a lot of hiking up and down stairs and rocks and some slick, unsteady paths that require focus, concentration and endurance. But it's worth it.

The Water Fall at the end of Conkles Hollow

View from within the
Falls Cave at Conkles Hollow

Cinema of Shadows Book Trailer

2011-07-25T09:31:00.000-04:00

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I came across this book trailer for the novel, Cinema of Shadows by Michael West.

It views more like a film than a standard book trailer. Even a 'twist' at the very end.

I think it's pretty darn well done. Give it a view and see what you think.

Steven Brust Quote on Writers and Readers

2011-07-23T13:49:00.000-04:00

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"All literature consists of whatever the writer thinks is cool. The reader will like the book to the degree that he agrees with the writer about what's cool." --Steven Brust

Contains the first three
Vald Taltos novels.
The perfect place to start.

As both a reader and a writer, what Brust said sure rings true.

National Debt Again

2011-07-22T10:29:00.002-04:00

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It's still a problem and not getting better. What is the Congress and the President doing about it? Ummm, nothing... Well, that's not true. They're busy pointing fingers and wringing hands, worried about default on debts owed. They 'need' to raise the debt ceiling to pay all of the obligations and promises they've made--of course then they could go on business as usual.

Nobody has a plan, except the Republicans in the House of Representatives. Everyone else in the government seems to have an opinion but nothing concrete or constructive. Sniping and trying to make themselves look good. Theoretical plans that will cut the deficit by a couple trillion dollars--plans that extend ten years into the future. Promises of cuts way out then. Those cuts will happen--ummm, right.

Does anyone see a problem with, after paying all of the entitlements such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, and then paying the interest owed on the National Debt, there is basically no tax revenue left to pay for anything else? Thus, to pay for/fund anything else the U.S. Government has to borrow money? For the military, for the FBI, for road repair?

For every dollar spent, the U.S. Government borrows 40 cents (there is some debate on the exact amount, but this appears to be close). If the government doesn't raise the debt ceiling, then they can only fund 60% of what they've 'budgeted.'

If our Representatives in Congress and the President don't do something soon to stop the spending--yes, actually reduce spending (you cannot raise enough taxes to cover all of the spending), this house of cards is gonna collapse. Won't that be pretty?

Get some guts, folks. Step up and tell the citizens: "We're broke...even worse, were in debt big-time and sinking further. No, you cannot have all of the goodies we promised. Even if we tax every rich person in the country, take every penny their earn above, say $250,000, we'll still not collect enough money (and won't that taxation plan do wonders for the economy). Everyone will have to tighten their belts. Everyone."

In the end we can only grow the economy to get out of this, but stemming the tide of spending is the first step to that happening. Maybe look at adjusting taxes after cuts are made. At least that's the way I see it.

The Gross National Debt

Note: At 4:40 pm EST on 7/22/11When this blog article was posted, the debt totalled: $14,412,536,802,223
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"Accelerated Justice"

2011-07-20T04:19:00.009-04:00

Here is the link to my short story "Accelerated Justice," part of Strange, Weird and Wonderful Magazine's Summer 2011 Issue. ("Accelerated Justice" starts off the issue!)

Link: Strange Weird and Wonderful Magazine Summer 2011 Issue

Hope you enjoy the story and let me know what you think.
`

Strange, Weird and Wonderful Interviews Me

2011-07-19T05:26:00.002-04:00

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Okay, some of you know me pretty well. Some of you don't. In either case, I think you'll enjoy the interview--and learn something about me, my reading interests, the cover art for Flank Hawk, or several other things.

Here's what the editor at Strange, Weird and Wonderful had to say:

Terry W. Ervin II is the kind of writer we like to bring to our readers; his career is on the way up and he has real talent. He made a promise to himself back in his college days to write a novel, but lucky for us, he also has written a short story or two.

His career and writing style has been heavily influenced by the likes of Steven Brust, Stephen R. Donaldson, Roger Zelazny, and others. His writing is gritty, and absorbing, and his characters breath with the life of a writer doing what he loves.

His Featured Story "Accelerated Justice" is a futuristic piece with a protagonist you will find easy to care about in a world where justice is served at the point of a needle.

If you'd like to learn more about Terry W. Ervin II and his writing, read his interview here: Interview with Terry W. Ervin II.

-DLR-

Note: My short story "Accelerated Justice" is part of Strange, Weird and Wonderful's Summer 2011 Issue. I'll post the link tomorrow :)
`

Intelligence vs. Wisdom

2011-07-18T16:37:00.002-04:00

This saying isn't new but I heard it on the radio last week (variations have been attributed to anonymous) and it stuck with me.

"Intelligence is knowing that a tomato is a fruit.

Wisdom is knowing not to include it in a fruit salad."

`

A Good Reminder for Every Busy Parent

2011-07-16T22:37:00.000-04:00

Update: The Thylacine (Tasmanian Wolf) Recent Sightings

2011-07-14T14:04:00.001-04:00

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In a follow-up to my previous post (Thylacine (Tasmanian Wolf), I will respond readers/visitors who contacted me about sightings of the thylacine in recent (or relatively recent years).

I knew about them and that is part of what has kept me hopeful about the species not being extinct. Still a long shot, but why not?

For those who would like to see, here are some videos. Compare what is seen in the videos to the zoo footage from the 1930s. Maybe it's like the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker, believed extinct since the 1940s, and now that status is in serious question. You be the judge.

The thylacine footage for the video above occurs about 40 seconds in.

If interested, you can search Youtube and find a few more.

What do you think?
`

An Interview with Southern Gothic Horror Author Bonnie Stewart

2011-07-13T06:09:00.002-04:00

Me and Bonnie at
Piqua's Taste of the Arts Festival

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Welcome to Up Around the Corner, Bonnie. Please, tell us a little about yourself and your writing.

I was raised in a quaint small town on the outskirts of a captivating county lake. As charming as the neighborhood may seem, it demented my mind, fostered my insanity, and scarred my soul for eternity. (giggle)

As I adequately impersonate a rational person, I write southern gothic horrors. My writing is whatever I want it to be--I have no inhibitions. It's whatever I want to be or what my characters want to be, or experience at that time, with no regard to possible hypocritical frowns and judgments. (evil grin) The series is an easy-to-read, gritty compilation of horror, comedy and murder, psychosis and society-considered normal human nature, all for the glory of entertainment.

You mentioned a series in your no-holds-barred writing style. Can you tell us a little about the books that are in it?

Currently, I have two novels within the series. The Slate Hill Covenant and the sequel, Ellabeth the Oldest.

The Covenant is a dark humor horror novel based on the most frightening and interesting facets of all—the human psyche, greed, lust and insanity.

The Covenant follows a promiscuous mother with six children, who are each plagued with varying disorders, such as: physical mutation, psychological disorders, religious fanaticism, or basic insentience. The tale follows this bizarre family’s move into a semi-abandoned mansion, the gruesome death of their mother while giving birth to a mutated infant, and how the children fare alone in the isolated house. And because of their instilled fear of separation, they make a peculiar and precarious covenant to keep the family together—indefinitely.

Ellabeth The Oldest follows the eldest daughter of the family of defectives, lunatics and murderers. Having been plagued with unimaginable degrees of guilt and insanity, she is soon unable to co-exist with others, which forces her to new and demented adventures, all the while, keeping the peculiar and precarious covenant that her and her siblings made to keep the family together—indefinitely.

I am planning on publishing the third addition, a prequel, called Becoming June, this fall. The novel will delve into the mother's childhood.

The series sounds intriguing and not exactly like anything else out there. Are there any authors and/or experiences that have influenced your writing?

You know, that's the problem. I read a lot--from Anne Rule to Stephen King, but, I get bored easily. I'm hyper, quickly distracted, and easily disinterested. Hence, my 'to be read' or 'never read' stacks are nearly as high as my 'read', however, movies were highly influential. Such as: Burnt Offerings, The Nanny, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane, The Shining. The older, darker, gray films that included a little bit (or a lot) of psychosis. And, for sure, my father's ghost stories were as influential as terrifying. He could make me scream out loud just listening and using my imagination.

And, definitely, my unique upbringing helped me conjure up the descriptions and some of the shocking storylines.

So, I write novels, which I believe to be easy reads, character driven, with constant action and suspense. I want to care about the characters and their plight. But, I also want to fear them and their insanity. I want to wonder about them throughout the day, while I am doing other, needful things. (yeah... Needful Things was cool, too)

It sounds as if your stories are constantly moving around in your thoughts as they develop and take form. Can you describe the process you go through from the initial idea or premise to reaching the final draft of your novels?

Wow! Chaos... to everyone, but me. I jot down an idea on a piece of paper (seems innocent) but, soon after, I have a clipboard (broken and taped) I carry with me that contains outlines for different chapters, which, I constantly move around, scribble on (my form of editing), add chapters (never remove, you just never know), and keep personal notes about each character.

(Ancient Native American-Scottish secret - works for me, probably only me ;)

Thus far in your writing career what has proven to be the most difficult hurdle to overcome and, to counterbalance that, what is the best/most interesting/most memorable comment you’ve received from a reader of your novels?

I guess the most difficult hurdle to me was fitting in. I'm a complex creature. A writer. An inside-my-head person. Ha! And, I was as unsure about fitting in the horror realm as much as I was the cheerleader-mom realm! But, in order to find my readers, because my novels are so different, I had to search for an appropriate audience, and bring my books to them. And, in the process, I've met some really great people and made friends I will have for the rest of my life.

Oh! I have some great comments, but I will quote the one from Kathy Smith, because I know she will let me. "Such a sweet, innocent face with such a sick, twisted mind."

I met her at my very first convention, Scarefest in Lexington, nearly three years ago. She bought my first book and we became quick friends. She actually helped me at the Scarefest last year.

Do you read outside the horror genre and if so, what three books would you recommend and why?

Well, yes, I'm a fan of Jane Eyre, odd book, eh? The only book I've read more than two times. Recently read True Grit, charming. I used to read a lot of Ann Rule, loved her true crimes. But, mostly, Koontz, Saul, King, Rice and Follett. I guess I like weird, twisted story lines. (The "oh no they didn't" stories.)

I can't really recommend any particular book. I would feel disloyal to the others. :)

Bonnie, we’re coming to the end of the interview. Is there anything you would like to say or add?

No, sir. Well, you are asking a self-proclaimed anti-social hermit to add something... what did you expect? ;)

Well, I do want to say, it was a pleasure and an honor working with you and I enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you so much!

***

You can find out more about Bonnie and her works (including how to obtain her novels) through DarkDays Publishing.

The Thylacine (Tasmanian Wolf)

2011-07-10T13:35:00.001-04:00

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Way back as a kid I paid attention whenever I spotted a rare bit on the news or a nature program mentioning the thylacine. Of all the recently (or relatively so) extinct animals out there, this one appears to have a slim chance of still existing in the wild...just maybe.

Even though the odds are against it, how cool would that be?

Stephen Zimmer's Seven Ways to Help Authors You Like

2011-07-07T18:05:00.001-04:00

Here's an article by Stephen Zimmer on how readers who enjoy an author's novels can help (seven easy methods):

Want to Help Authors You Like? Here Are Seven Ways!

Give it a read and apply (if you already haven't)--not only for me :) , but any author whose works you think others might enjoy. The effort will be appreciated beyond what you might imagine.

Frustration with Amazon: Update

2011-07-05T11:31:00.000-04:00

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It did eventually happen, and it appears to have stuck (four days and counting). The Kindle and print versions of Flank Hawk remain linked and all of the reviews have returned. :)

Reference: Original Frustration w/ Amazon post

4th of July 2011

2011-07-04T18:18:00.000-04:00

Enjoyed the community fireworks celebration Saturday night. My family found a spot out on the middle school's football field next to some good neighbors. My older daughter walked around a bit with her friends and my younger daughter ran around us with one of her buddies, both tossing their glowstick necklaces high into the air and chasing after them.

Sack races and concessions and music sounded while an appreciative and patriotic spirit ran through the crowd.

Sure, the fireworks display wasn't as impressive or long-lasting as some I've seen, especially when I lived in Toledo and watched them along the Maumee River. But it was pretty awesome in its own way. Tonight, when the sun sets, it'll be sparklers in the ally behind our house.

I hope you were able to enjoy the weekend and Independence Day with family and friends as well. And think about and say a prayer for those who made it all possible, and those serving our country now, sacrificing to allow us this and many other freedoms.
`

An Interview with Author Cher Green

2011-07-01T05:28:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Up Around the Corner, Cher. Please, tell us a little about yourself and your writing.

Thanks for having me.

As a child, I became intrigued with books. At first it was the delight by other worlds existing alongside my own, but soon they became an escape. As a teenager, I wished to disappear into my own imagination. My first experience with writing was with poetry and short stories. In high school, I sent my first submission to a publisher, who planned to showcase writings of the youths in my area. The magazine never saw light due to the lack of submissions, but I received my first letter of encouragement. I continued writing, but life pulled me away from dreams.

In 1999, my father died in a work accident, sending me a wakeup call. I’d given up on my life’s dream. Two years later, I dug into my first novel. With no writing experience, the piece became a learning experience. With the help of other writers, I continued to learn and hone my writing skills. Short stories proved a better method of learning the craft, so I made the temporary switch.

In 2010, I had my first publication, and have been striving forward ever since. 2011 has proved to be a great year with two short story publications and an upcoming publication of my first novella, Escape to Love. This year, I’ve also delved into the editing world and have found this a great supplement to my own writing. I have a variety of stories in submission mode, a novel in progress, and many more projects simmering in my head.

What (if anything) do you find different when writing longer works, such as novels and novellas, as compared to short stories?

Wonderful question! The writing process is the same: brainstorm, rough draft, revisions, and polish.

The biggest differences in the two are the timeline and structure.

A short story timeline usually spans over hours, sometimes days. Its structure is quick and to the point. There’s no room to explore added depth. You have a limited amount of words and you better make everyone count.

A longer piece’s timeline can span from days, months, sometimes years. Its structure is more detailed and involves much more work. The larger word count allows for more exploration, a bigger area to develop your characters and their needs. Not to say you shouldn’t make every word count, but the expanded space allows your imagination a much bigger playground.

Speaking of characters: If you could share a meal with any fictional character, who would you select and why, and where would you dine?

Well, that’s a hard one. I’ve gotten know a lot of characters in my lifetime, and many were wonderful and worth getting know better. At first thought, I would have said Thad Beaumont of Stephen King’s The Dark Half, but then I thought, what would we talk about? So, my answer is Meredith Martin, of Kate Mosse’s Sepulchre. I would love to get a look at those tarot cards painted by Léonie Vernier. I’m sure we’d have an enjoyable conversation. Where? A little coffee shop. Her choice.

Interesting choice. With that in mind, could you introduce us to the main character in your upcoming release, Escape to Love?

My story has two main characters: Constance Spenser and Lawrence Wilder

Constance is a relatively quiet woman, who has sought solitude in a country home with her cat, Angelica. In attempt to find meaning in life, she seeks spirituality and turns to witchcraft. With no talent at the art, she accidently opens a portal to another world. Although she seems very normal, her destiny proves to be more than an average destiny. She’s strong and up for the challenge, any challenge for that matter.

Lawrence is a kind person, but life tragedies have sent him into the arms of the devil. He’s one of the council members. The council controls the people of the village, maintaining a magic free environment, and possesses full power for itself. Lawrence has come to a point where he’s had enough and wants to rejoin normal society, but one doesn’t leave the council. He’s a man with a big heart and many regrets.

Many writers fear or dread losing their work to a digital disaster—some through experience. Do you have a particular method for backing up your work and are you regular in your backup efforts?

Luckily, I’ve yet to experience such a tragedy. I do back up regularly to two flash drives. So, at the end of the day, I have three copies of my work. I backup once a day to one flash drive and weekly to the other.

It is often said that good writers are avid readers. Do you agree and, if so, what are your reading habits/what do you read?

I do agree, but I am guilty of not being as avid as I once was or should be. I used to devour books, now I nibble. On most nights, I make it a point to read for at least thirty minutes before bed, and if I’m lucky, I get sucked in and read longer. I do, however, read when editing, but for me this is a different type of reading.

My reading material consists of both fiction and non-fiction. I try to alternate between the two. On non-fiction, I read mostly books on writing or tarot/spiritual books. On fiction, my appetite varies. I enjoy Dean Koontz, Stephen King, Kay Hooper, but the list could go on and on. I also explore other genres and have stacks of unread books just waiting to be opened.

As already mentioned, you have a novella soon to be released. Why do you think readers should open it? What should they expect?

Escape to Love is a mix of paranormal suspense and romance. The main reason to open any book is to experience a journey. Readers will enjoy the characters, atmosphere, and experience. Everyone has a limit to how much they are willing to do for love. Would you step into a portal of the unknown?

Would I step into a portal of the unknown for love? Tough question—a good question, Cher. One would like to automatically say “Yes” but who knows for sure.

As we’re coming to the end of our interview, is there anything you’d like to say or add?

Yes, I’d like to address all writers, professional and aspiring. The writing dream is lonely, hard work, frustrating, and even heartbreaking. It is a journey we chose to take and only the tough will survive. Continue to follow your dream. It’s all worth it in the end.

Thanks, Terry, for having me. I enjoyed talking with you and sharing. This has been a wonderful journey from aspiring writer to publication, but in truth, the work has only begun.

***

Escape to Love is published by eTreasures Publishing. You can find more about her novel and where to obtain it there.

You can learn more about Cher and her writing by vising her website, Cher Green, fiction writer and her blog, Footsteps of a Writer.

ConCarolinas 2011: Readers of Fantasy, Horror and Science Fiction

2011-06-29T10:25:00.000-04:00

Krystal showing her copies of
Dead Eye and Flank Hawk

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I've been preparing blog posts following up on ConCarolinas 2011. While looking through pictures taken, I came across Krystal's. She's a prime example of why I really enjoy going to conventions and book fairs. I get to meet and talk to readers. Sure, it's an opportunity to introduce readers to my works, but there's much more to it than that.

During my second year attending to ConCarolinas I again had the opportunity to discuss some old favorites such as Roger Zelazny's Amber series and past SF television programs such as Babylon 5 and StarGate SG1. I got to talk about what's new and coming around the corner. I met some new folks and renewed friendships with others. Fun stuff!

Frustration with Amazon

2011-06-27T15:46:00.001-04:00

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A little over two weeks ago for some reason Amazon.com decided to sever the connection or link between the print version of Flank Hawk and the Kindle version. I have no idea why. It made little sense. I contacted my publisher and asked if they'd contact Amazon to correct it/restore the link. After a contact or two, the versions were once again linked (such that if you were viewing the print version, you could click on the hyperlink and view the Kindle version and visa versa).

Then, all of the reviews disappeared, first from the print version, and then a few hours later, from the Kindle version. I scratched my head and then waited. Sporadically a few returned and then disappeared from each version. Finally, twelve of the original fifteen showed up with the print, and three with the Kindle. Previously with Flank Hawk, and with every title I looked at, the Kindle and the print reviews show up under in both versions. It no longer does with Flank Hawk, and has been that way for a week.

An email to my publisher requesting they look into it, got a return back from Amazon that eventually all of the reviews would migrate back.

Good reviews help with attracting readers. Flank Hawk was in the top 20 in the 'Historic Fantasy' category and the top 60 in 'Epic Fantasy.' With the reviews 'gone' that is no longer the case. Since the issues, sales (especially on Kindle) have dropped to almost nothing.

I'm sure it makes little difference to Amazon. I'm not exactly a high volume selling author, and Gryphonwood Press isn't a major publisher. If readers seeking to try a new author or title doesn't see Flank Hawk, they will never know the difference and obviously won't give my work a try--but probably will pick something else in its absence. Thus, no sale lost for Amazon...

Life is like that, and Amazon doesn't have it out for me. Just frustrating on this end and figured I'd vent here a bit. Who knows, by the time you read this all may be well...maybe...

Note: two hours after posting the above, the print version now is asking for readers to be the first to review Flank Hawk--showing none...
`

Burn Notice Returns

2011-06-23T10:12:00.000-04:00

`
Tonight Burn Notice returns with new episodes.

It's the only television series I watch. Interesting, action-packed, has a great story arc--and Bruce Campbell.

Bruce Campbell as Sam Axe

An Interview with Fantasy Author Gail Z. Martin

2011-06-21T00:10:00.033-04:00

Welcome to Up Around the Corner, Gail. Please, tell us a little about yourself and your writing.

I’ve always wanted to write. The first story I remember writing was when I was five years old and since I couldn’t spell yet, I had to have my grandmother write it down for me. Believe it or not, the story was about a vampire! (I was a big Dark Shadows fan in pre-school!) In junior high and high school I wrote to amuse my friends, and I kept on writing in college and grad school. Some of what I wrote was fan fiction, and eventually I began to create my own worlds and characters. It was a long road after that, but it was worth the wait.

It is often said that good writers are avid readers. Do you agree and, if so, what are your reading habits/what do you read?

It’s certainly true for me. I read over 100 books last year, and that’s with a full schedule of writing and speaking. Since I write epic fantasy, I really don’t read much epic fantasy now, although I read a lot of it growing up. For a change of pace, I’ve been reading urban fantasy, some steampunk, and a good bit of paranormal mystery.

If you could meet any two individuals, the first a historical figure and the second being a fictional character, who would they be and why?

As for a historical character, I know it’s rather recent history, but Walt Disney is one of my heroes because of his creativity and imagination and the way he used his gifts to bring so much joy to people. As for a fictional character, I might not survive it, but I’d love to meet Lestat from Anne Rice’s series.

Thinking back to one or more of your English/Language Arts teachers, where were they on target in preparing you to be a writer and where might they have been a bit off?

I had a marvelous Folklore professor in college, the late Dr. Hilda Kring. She was a fantastic influence on me. To tell the truth, I tended to shy away from English and Language Arts because I wanted to write, not dissect how other writers wrote. And I figured I could read books for free on my own time with Cliff Notes rather than spend tuition money to read them. I was a History major in my undergraduate program. The teachers who made the biggest impact on me were my History professors.

What do you struggle with most as a writer and how do you overcome it?

Although I really don’t have a problem with focusing any other time, when I’m writing I have to fight the urge to be totally ADD. I’ll get stuck on a section of my writing, and suddenly want to jump out and Google something unrelated or check the news—anything for a distraction. There’s a story about a writer who kept finding ways to put off writing and finally told someone, “I should be writing but I have to floss my cat.” So when I find myself going ADD I just tell myself that it’s time to stop flossing the cat and get back to work.

Of your works in print (or coming into print) which bears your favorite cover and why? Which comes in second?

I love all of the covers, but my top favorite is Dark Haven, because the artist got Jonmarc Vahanian absolutely right as I envisioned him. My second favorite is the new cover for The Dread because I also think the artist did a great job capturing Kiara.

Besides reading and writing, what else occupies your time?

I have three kids, a husband and a dog, and I also own a marketing consulting firm and write non-fiction books on social media and related topics, and I do a lot of professional speaking. Once in a while I get to sleep.

As we’re coming to the end of our interview, is there anything you’d like to say or add?

I do a lot of conventions and I hope that some of your readers will connect with me at one of the cons. It’s great to meet readers and just talk with people who also love books and the characters in the books. And of course, if one of your readers hasn’t tried my books, I hope they’ll jump in and give it a shot. Thank you so much.

*** ***** ***

Note: This interview is part of a larger internet event so, in addition to the interivew, check out the information below!

Welcome to the 2012 Hawthorn Moon Sneak Peek of The Dread!

Still reeling from plague and civil war, the Winter Kingdoms face an invasion force from across the Northern Sea led my a dark spirit mage in the name of ancient, vanquished gods. Summoner-King Martris Drayke and an untested generation of new rulers must stand against an unholy alliance of shadowy invaders. To prevail, Drayke must win the uncertain support of the Dread, spirit-beings that stand guard within the sacred barrows over an even more fearsome threat imprisoned within. In the balance lies not only the freedom of the Winter Kingdoms, but Drayke’s life and the soul of his young son, whose untested magic might be the biggest spoil of war.

The Dread is Book Two of The Fallen Kings Cycle, and it picks up the story immediately after the events in The Sworn.

The Dread will be available in stores and online world-wide in February, 2012. But you can read excerpts, see the amazing new cover art, get exclusive Q&A interviews and other online goodies by visiting my web page at http://www.chroniclesofthenecromancer.com/ and checking out the partner sites that have graciously agreed to post material and host book drawings.

Here’s where to find the goodies:

OrbitBooks.net —First look at the cover art for The Dread plus a Q&A with Tris Drayke.

SFSignal.com —Contest to win a free autographed copy of The Sworn plus an exclusive excerpt from The Dread and an exclusive excerpt from The Dread

BookLoons.com —Three times is a charm—get lucky and win a free autographed copy of The Sworn!

http://epheros.livejournal.com/ —Can a female author write a believable male character? Can a mortal write a believable undead, or shapeshifting creature? Read my exclusive blog post and find out!

Twitter.com/GailZMartin —Get the first look at Chapter 1 of The Dread on my Twitter feed before it posts to my web site

Facebook.com/WinterKingdoms —Another exclusive excerpt from The Dread plus an interview with Jonmarc Vahanian (Please “like” the page while you’re there!)

DisquietingVisions.com —Are magical objects a cheat? Find out what I think in my special blog post!

http://uparoundthecorner.blogspot.com/ –All-new Q&A with me talking about writing, passion and the love of magic.

GhostInTheMachinePodcast.com —Brand new audio of me reading an excerpt from The Dread

MySpace (GailZMartin) and my Chronicles of The Necromancer newsletter—an interview with Adaine, the Ghost Whore

And on my ChroniclesOfTheNecromancer.com web site, you’ll find the following “party favors”:

• An excerpt from Chapter 1 of The Dread
• An interview with Kiara, Queen of Margolan
• An all-new author video message with hints about the new series after The Dread!

Thank you for checking out my Hawthorn Moon sneak peek party. Enjoy!
`

Interviewed by Mythic Scribes

2011-06-20T08:33:00.000-04:00

`
If you have a moment click on over to Mythic Scribes where they interviewed me about writing and getting your work published. One topic I find rarely discussed that I brought up is about obtaining blurbs.

Link: My Interview with Mythic Scribes

Mythic Scribes is a relatively new reading and writing website/community focused on Fantasy.
`

Remembering Dad

2011-06-19T00:02:00.003-04:00

I think everyone whose father has passed away has a different way of remembering them. The photo to the right shows a picture of the cabinets at the back of my classroom. On top of one cabinet is a potted plant from my dad's funeral.

Everyday I go to work and unlock the door to enter my classroom, I begin a routine. I turn on the lights, of course, check the walls where I have my weekly lessons listed to make sure I have everything ready. I set my briefcase on my desk and I grab my empty coffee mug before walking over to fire up the two old computers (it takes them a while). Then swing to the back of the room and and flick the switch that lights powers up the lamp (with a UVA bulb) that's focused on the plants.

That last step reminds me of my dad. Then I go and get coffee in the faculty room and get ready for the day. During the day, the potted plants are always in the background. I don't usually focus on or think about them, or him. But sometimes I do.

Just one way I remember.

Was he a perfect father? No, but then again, neither am I. Who ever is or was. But he did always care and he did want me to enjoy my job as a teacher, which I do. So it's a connection for me, and I remember.

I move the plant to a classroom with a window every summer (yep, my classroom doesn't have one), and stop in to water the plants in the big pot once a week. The action reminds me of him--usually a brief snippet of a memory. Just a routine and how I do things.

In any case, I thought it on Thursday when I went into work, and I'll be thinking the same thing today: Happy Father's Day, Dad.
`

A Brief Conversation with Harry Turtledove

2011-06-14T10:06:00.000-04:00

No, Harry Turtledove isn't standing on a milk crate or anything. He's just kinda tall, especially compared to me.

I only spent a few minutes with him. He took time to sign the novels he authored (that I'd brought to ConCarolinas with me) and we talked briefly about his World War Series, and Roger Zelazny. I never had the opportunity to meet Roger Zelazny (he passed away from cancer in 1995). Mr. Turtledove said, "That you'd put me in his company as a writer is quite an honor. He was a very good man and a great writer, taken away from us too soon."

I was discussing with Harry Turtledove how his World War Series, combined with Roger Zelazny's Guns of Avalon formed the spark that ignited the idea for my novel, Flank Hawk.

As to be expected, Harry Turtledove is a friendly guy with a quick wit. He probably doesn't remember the conversation, but I do.
`

"Shadowed" by James T. Coon (at Residential Aliens)

2011-06-09T22:34:00.001-04:00

Here's a link to a pretty neat short story by crit partner James. T. Coon. It's an interesting fantasy short featuring Brick, a tough old school Private Eye.

If you've got a few minutes, give it a read.

Link: "Shadowed" by James T. Coon

Kevin's Corner Review of Flank Hawk: A First Civilization's Legacy Novel

2011-06-07T14:04:00.000-04:00

Veteran Reviewer Kevin R. Tipple has finally reviewed Flank Hawk. I've been eagerly awaiting his views and comments on my novel. Why? I've read and respected his literary observations for many years.

Link: Reviewing: "FLANK HAWK: A First Civilization’s Legacy Novel" by Terry W. Ervin II

As a writer I find it fascinating to learn what readers come away with from my works, be they short stories or longer works such as Flank Hawk.

Note: Although Kevin Tipple's focus is mainly on works of crime and mystery, he does venture out into other genres. So, if you desire input on what's out there that's good (or not so good), don't hesitate to follow his review blog, Kevin's Corner.
`

ConCarolinas 2011 and Zombie Endorsements

2011-06-06T12:56:00.000-04:00

`
I had a great time meeting readers, gamers, writers, artists and actors at ConCarolinas 2011. Over the next few weeks I'll be posting about some interesting folks I met and participated with on panels.

But we'll start off with a few endorsements from some pretty sharp zombies. While Flank Hawk isn't a 'zombie novel' they are an important element in the story--ask the Necromancer King.

An Interview with Fantasy Author David Forbes

2011-06-01T06:11:00.002-04:00

`
Welcome to Up Around the Corner, David. Please, tell us a little about yourself and your writing.

I’m the author of the epic fantasy series THE OSSERIAN SAGA, published by HarperCollins, which began with THE AMBER WIZARD in 2006, followed by sequels THE WORDS OF MAKING and THE COMMANDING STONE.

The goal was to write a fantasy series chronicling the rise of monotheism in a polytheistic world and how religious belief can both unite different social and ethnic groups, as well as be used as a weapon to conquer others. As with most early writing goals, this one didn’t survive much beyond the first draft, and the tattered remnants that remained were drastically changed from the original concepts. Which is maybe a little too much info about this particular sausage making, but I’m nothing if not scrupulously honest and direct about my writing, except of course where such scrupulousness might affect me adversely, and then all bets are off. However, the original goals did begin to peek back in to varied degrees in the second and third volumes, so all was not lost.

The Saga also includes a large and varied cast of characters, some unique world building, and, of course, lots of fighting, magic, and an assortment of gargantuan action set pieces where lots of things are destroyed in spectacular ways in order to satisfy my lifelong fascination with explosions, mayhem, and destruction.

I live outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with my wife and two sons, who drive me only moderately insane a handful of times each week.

David, could you tell us little bit the “sausage making”? What inspired or motivated you to drastically alter your original writing goals? What would you say your writing goals are today?

Well, the changes came about primarily from “theory” crashing headlong into “reality.” I had these lofty plans for an overarching theme of the novels, but when I got down to the nitty gritty of actually plotting everything out, some of the necessary plot details wouldn’t work out.

The rise of the Prophet of the One God was supposed to take place fairly early in the first book, which would give more time for Gerin to became involved with him and his teachings. But when I wrote THE AMBER WIZARD, there simply wasn’t room for that enormous subplot, so it had to go into book two. The original plan for that book then had to be pushed back since Gerin was now just learning about the religion rather than having been a member for several years. So while some of the thematic ideas are still present, they’re pretty different from what I first envisioned.

This is all just part of the writing process, especially with large epic fantasies that have story arcs that span several volumes. Original plans often get jettisoned or drastically altered. I’m not bothered or disappointed by the changes, but it does change my ideas of what the books were ultimately about.

My writing goals change book to book. My goal right now is just to get a few more under contract!

I’ve finished two young adult novels that were much easier to write because there wasn’t as much to create (i.e., I didn’t have to fashion an entire fantasy world from scratch). One of them is a stand-alone novel, which also makes the writing easier.

EVERWHEN is about a war between factions of angels arguing over God’s plan for the world and the fifteen-year-old boy caught in the crossfire because he has something both sides want. Thematically, it’s about our relationship with religious concepts and how zealotry in any form, from any side, is a really bad idea.

THE SAPPHIRE EYE concerns a teenage girl, Abbey Howard, who gets caught in the scheming of an immortal empress who lives in the original Garden of Eden, who is out to enslave mankind. Abbey has to fend off attacks from demons, undead soldiers, and a nasty spiritualist while keeping up her grades in high school and coming to terms with the discovery that the guy of her dreams is actually a witch.

The most recent novel I finished is an urban fantasy called THE RUTHLESS DEAD, about a half-angel security consultant who sometimes works with a secret government agency that guards against incursions from so-called Celestial dimensions. John has unique abilities that make him the target of a vampire who’s trying to free a Fallen Angel from a prison called the Abyss as part of a plot to take over Hell. John is forced to deal with rogue wizards, golems, a kidnapping, and a demonic possession, all while trying to keep his hot girlfriend from dumping him because his life is just too weird for her.

The novels you’re working to get under contract definitely sound interesting.

During your tenure as an author, how has the landscape changed for authors seeking to get works published? Has it become easier or more difficult to get a manuscript accepted, not only for established authors, but writers working to find a publisher for their first novel?

The biggest change is the world of ebooks. Publishers are both terrified of it (because of downward pressure on price) and thrilled by the thought of extending their “product” into the future on a new frontier of ereaders, like the Kindle, Nook, iPad, etc. No one is sure how this is going to shake out, or who will benefit (or lose) the most.

The collapsed economy hasn’t helped things either. The publishers are under even more pressure to hit home runs with every book, which means midlist authors like myself get squeezed for time, attention, money, publicity, and contracts. The whole landscape is rather dismal right now.

What aspect of storytelling do you find to be the most challenging? And, in your effort to become a published writer, were there any ‘rules of writing’ that you stretched or even broke along the way?

Characterization is always a struggle for me. I tend to create characters that don’t have a lot of problems or issues, which makes them seem more real to me as people but also rather bland. My characters seem real and unique to me, but I need to work more at making that realness and uniqueness evident to readers. It’s easy to give characters broad quirks and mannerisms and call that characterization — it’s a lot harder to give them real, subtle, and interesting traits that accumulate over the course of a novel by what they do, say, and how they react to things.

As for your second question, no, not really. I can’t think of any rules I stretched or broke. Sorry!

Absolutely nothing wrong with having never stretched or broken any ‘rules of writing’ in your path to publication.

David, can you identify a book or two that you number among your favorites, and explain why they hold that place with you?

That’s harder to do than you think! Here are a few (a lot more than two, but hey, it’s the Internet and I don’t think I’ll use up too many bits with this list!):

1. The Lord of the Rings — let’s get the obvious one out of the way. This is the granddaddy and an influence on all fantasy writers, regardless of what they might say. Either they’re writing something like it or deliberately trying to write something not like it.

2. Dune — A science fiction epic of the imagination (and yes, I even liked all of the sequels, at least the ones Frank Herbert wrote).

3. American Tabloid — one of the best novels about the sixties ever. Told in Ellroy’s blistering prose style, just before he turned said style into a cartoonish caricature of itself.

4. Anything by Michael Connelly. My favorite writer of the past several years, no one does plotting better, and he creates wonderful characters with a great economy of style.

5. Salem’s Lot — The first Stephen King book I ever read, when I was twelve or thirteen. It scared the living sh*t out of me and I couldn’t put it down. Still one of the best vampire novels ever written.

6. Valis — The ultimate head trip from Philip K. Dick, one of the most awe inspiring novels I’ve ever read.

I could go on for pages, but I’ll leave it with these, which were the first to come to mind, and so probably had the most affect on me.

I agree, narrowing it to two is a pretty difficult request. You’ve got a solid list if you ask me.

When you write, who do you see as your readers or audience, and does this have any influence on the novels you produce?

I honestly don’t think at all about who might be reading the book when I’m first writing it. I think, like most writers, I write to entertain myself. Sure, I want to have an audience, but my goal is to write a book I’d like to read that no one else has written yet. I like creating fun and weird and interesting characters, and dreaming up “that is so cool!” moments, whether they’re action scenes or examples of really cool magic.

Of course, before I start writing a book, I think about marketability. I’m writing for me, but ultimately I want to write a book that I can also sell. So in that respect I try to come up with ideas that I think will be popular.

For instance, my editor asked me to write an urban fantasy. I hadn’t given any thought to an urban fantasy, and wasn’t sure I wanted to write one. I looked through my story ideas folder and found some notes for a vampire novel tentatively titled Breathless that I’d written years before. I never found a solid story hook, so I just filed it away.

I got it out and started thinking about what I might be able salvage from it for a UF novel. I brainstormed and made lots of notes about (a) what I would like to see in an urban fantasy that I hadn’t, and (b) what would be marketable. Which isn’t the same as writing to a specific audience, but rather trying to figure out what will sell to a publisher.

After months of working on notes and then an outline, I ended up with the novel The Ruthless Dead, which my agent just read and really liked. Of course I need to make some revisions to it before it’s “editor friendly,” but that goes with the territory. The good thing is that the prose, characters, and overall story really work (according to him).

Thanks for the interview!

You're welcome, David. And thank you for taking the time to share your experience and a bit about your works!

** ****** **

You can learn more about David Forbes and his writings at his website/blog: The Magic Echo Chamber

His works are available online (Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble) and in bookstores. You won’t regret giving them a try.
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ConCarolinas 2011

2011-05-30T08:48:00.001-04:00

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I'll be attending ConCarolinas 2011 (June 3-5) again this year and I'm really looking forward to it.

I'll spend a lot of time at the Gryphonwood Press Table in the Dealer's Room, along with several other Gryphonwood authors (Jim Bernheimer and David Wood).

I'll also be participating on several panels:

Saturday 12:00 pm to 01:00 pm
Event Title: Skeptics vs. Believers

Location: Walden - Programming 4

Believers of the paranormal face off against skeptics in a civilized debate.

Panelists: Theresa Bane, Justin Chung, Tonya Denny, Terry W Ervin II, Shawn Sellers, Tina McSwain, Rob R Shelsky, Gail Z. Martin

Saturday 07:00 pm to 08:00 pm
Event Title: When Did Science Become a Bad Word

Location: Olmstead - Programming 7

Why does our society seem to fear science?

Panelists: Chris Berman, Justin Chung, Terry W Ervin II, James Maxey, Emlee Vassilos, Stephen Euin Cobb, James Craig

Sunday 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Event Title: Faith Based Initiative

Location: University Ballroom A - Programming 3

Including religious characters in our genre fiction.

Panelists: Mason Lavin, Joe Naff, Terry W Ervin II, Glenda C. Finkelstein, Stephen Zimmer, Edmund R. Schubert

Author Harry Turtledove

I'm really looking forward to meeting Toni Weisskopf (Managing Editor of Baen Books) and Harry Turtledove (Bestselling SF/Fantasy Author)

Hope to seeing you there!
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Steven Brust Discusses Writing

2011-05-27T21:45:00.001-04:00

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One of my all-time favorite writers Steven Brust sits down and talks about writing.

A mixture of common sense and some really insightful stuff.

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Book Binding: Comparing Yesterday and Today

2011-05-22T07:00:00.001-04:00

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I found these three videos that give a view on the printing and binding of a book, comparing the past to present.

The first is from the late 1940s, the other two are modern digital process version in the last couple of years The second shows offset digital printing/production of the cover and pages of Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol. I know the last shows soft cover binding using a form of POD technology as opposed to offset printing, but I find the first labor intensive working toward the final, least labor intensive to be quite a contrast.

Old School Book Printing and Binding

Modern Digital Offset Print and Binding

Modern Print on Demand (Expresso's printing while you wait)

I don't know about you, but I found it interesting.
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Copyright Certificate: Flank Hawk

2011-05-20T22:16:00.003-04:00

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The Certificate of Registration for Flank Hawk arrived in the mail today.

Gryphonwood Press officially published Flank Hawk on October 27, 2009. The registration for copyright was submitted in February 2010.

The Effective Date of Registration:
February 4, 2010

Certification Date:
February 2, 2010

The Copyright Certificate for Flank Hawk arrived in the mail today, March 20, 2011. Faster than promised. If I recall, the Copyright Office indicated 18 months before the official certificate would arrive.

In truth, it's kind of neat, but not all that impressive--if that makes sense.

Book Signing at Piqua's Taste of the Arts Festival

2011-05-18T14:22:00.000-04:00

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Mainstreet Piqua's 17th Annual Taste of the Arts will be held on Friday, May 20th in downtown Piqua, Ohio. Taste of the Arts is a celebration of food and art in the Upper Miami Valley and gets underway at 5:00 p.m. Enjoy live music, amazing food and a variety of demonstrating artists. The entire Taste of the Arts schedule of events can be found here: Taste of the Arts Schedule

I will be joining about twenty other authors signing copies of our works. More information about the Taste of the Arts Festival here: Taste of the Arts Festival Info.

Authors will be in the Piqua Public Library (see bottom left picture) from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Don't hesitate to come and join the community enjoying food, music and art.

"The Exchange Box" is Available

2011-05-13T22:32:00.000-04:00

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"The Exchange Box" published as a Mystic Signals exclusive print story (through The Lorelei Signal April-June 2011 Issue) is now available.

It is one of the most popular/favorite short stories of my group of readers. The story has a solid positive theme coupled with a few plot twists that make the story unique.

It can be obtained here: Mystic Signals Issue 10

Teaser: A single mother is approached by a strange man with a very unusual business arrangement. Thinking only of the money and providing a better life for her son, she agrees, but what will the ultimate cost be?

Art created for the The Exchange Box

What is also cool is that my name leads the author list on the front cover. It's a first for me :)

If you do get a copy and read "The Exchange Box" don't hesitate to contact me and let me know what you think.

Angie's Out of This World Adventure (Day 2)

2011-05-10T05:00:00.019-04:00

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I have the privilege of hosting the second day of writer Angie Lofthouse's Out of This World Adventure which runs from May 9th through the 30th. Great stories, great prizes, great fun!

All you need to do to participate is to read the stories and comment on the blogs where they're hosted (such as this one). Contest Rules and List of Prizes (such as $25.00 Amazon.com Gift Card) and other blogs participating can be found right HERE (and also spelled out below).

Let's get started!

The story to read is: "Getting Colder"
(which first appeared in Amazing Journeys magazine in the June 2004 issue).

Teaser: Baron would do anything to save his wife from an incurable illness, but the answer he finds will tests the limits of his strength, his faith , and his understanding.

To enter The Out of This World Adventure giveaway, click on the story title above to read the story, then come back here and answer the following question in the comments:

Who in your life would you go to any lengths to save?

Your comment will give you one entry in the grand prize drawing (includes an Amazon gift card, free book and other fun stuff!), plus one commenter on this post will win a Milky Way bar. Mmmm. Include your email address, if it isn't on your profile, so we can contact the winners.

Be sure to visit the other stops on the Adventure and good luck!

Note: "Getting Colder" is a story I selected to appear here--it's an engaging read--if you ask me! (Actually, all stories in the contest are top reads.) After reading, take the time to comment and I hope you win!
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Classic TV: Al Bundy vs. "Spare Tire" Dixon

2011-05-07T17:07:00.000-04:00

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Okay, maybe Married with Children shouldn't be classified as 'classic' but during the years it aired I really enjoyed Al Bundy's humorous suffering and adventure.

Here's a classic clip from the show, where Al Bundy faces high school nemesis, Spare Tire Dixon (Bubba Smith). Give it a click and I hope you enjoy :)

As an additional note: Ed O'Neil, who plays Al Bundy, was a college football player, drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers. If I recall accurately, he was the last person cut from the team during training camp in 1969.
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What caught my attention in Lord Foul's Bane by Stephen R. Donaldson

2011-04-30T14:11:00.001-04:00

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Below is a section of the third chapter of Lord Foul's Bane. It's what hooked me. A mixture of foreshadowing, including hints of some of the places and 'player's to come, not only in the first novel, but throughout the trilogy (The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever).

The word choice, names, multiple titles--it just set the atmosphere for me. There were times the first novel proved hard to get through, especially as I was busy in college, but it really set up the rest of the trilogy well, and a read that I would argue rivals Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Anyway, here it is:

***

… “I have had many names,” the voice said. “To the Lords of Revelstone, I am Lord Foul the Despiser; to the Giants of Seareach, Satansheart and Soulcrusher. The Ramen name me Fangthane. In the dreams of the Bloodguard, I am Corruption. But the people of the Land call me the Grey Slayer.” …

…“But I have wasted time enough. Now to my purpose. Heed me well, groveler. I have a task for you. You will bear a message for me to Revelstone—to the Council of Lords.

“Say to the Council of Lords and to High Lord Prothall, son of Dwillian, that the uttermost limit of their span of days upon the Land is seven times seven years from this present time. Before the end of those days are numbered, I will have the command of life and death in my hand. And as a token that what I say is the one word of truth, tell them this: Drool Rockworm, Cavewight of Mount Thunder, has found the Staff of Law, which was lost ten times a hundred years ago by Kevin at the Ritual of Desecration. Say to them that the task appointed to their generation is to regain the Staff. Without it, they will not be able to resist me for seven years, and my complete victory will be achieved six times seven years earlier than it would be else.

“As for you, groveler: do not fail with this message. If you do not bring it before the Council, then every human in the Land will be dead before ten seasons have passed. You do not understand—but I tell you Drool Rockworm has the Staff, and that is a cause for terror. He will be enthroned at Lord’s Keep in two years if the message fails. Already, the Cavewights are marching to his call; and wolves, and ur-viles of the Demondim, answer the power of the Staff. But war is not the worst peril. Drool delves ever deeper into the dark roots of Mount Thunder—Gravin Therndor, Peak of Fire-Lions. And there are banes buried in the deeps of the Earth too potent and terrible for any mortal to control. They would make of the universe a hell forever. But such a bane Drool seeks. He searches for the Illearth Stone. If he becomes its master, there will be woe for low and high alike until Time itself falls.

“Do not fail with my message, groveler. You have met Drool. Do you relish dying in his hands?”

The voice paused, and Covenant held his head in his arms, trying to silence the echo of Foul’s threats. This is a dream, he thought. A dream! But the blindness of the mist made him feel trapped, encapsulated in insanity. He shuddered with the force of his desire for escape and warmth. “Go away! Leave me alone!”

“One word more,” Foul said, “a final caution. Do not forget whom to fear at the last. I have had to be content with killing and torment. But now my plans are laid, and I have begun. I shall not rest until I have eradicated hope from the Earth. Think on that and be dismayed!”

***
Yes, I think Lord Foul makes a pretty good villain.

An Interview with SF/Fantasy Author Stephen Zimmer

2011-04-27T18:22:00.003-04:00

Welcome to Up Around the Corner, Stephen. Please, tell us a little about yourself and your writing.

First and foremost, thank you very much for the chance to join you here and hang out for awhile! I really appreciate the chance to talk about my work, though as an epic fantasy writer, you may end up with an epic-scale interview!

I’m an author and filmmaker based out of Lexington, Kentucky, with two active fantasy series. I primarily write epic-scale novels, with the Fires in Eden series and Rising Dawn Saga, both from Seventh Star Press. I have two different editors, one for each series, which has helped with keeping a nice release schedule that sees a new book out about every seven months, with the two series alternating.

Fires in Eden is medieval fantasy in nature, with a slight twist in that it involves a number of modern day characters that get taken into the world of Ave near the beginning of Crown of Vengeance. So far there are two books out in the series, the aforementioned Crown of Vengeance, and Dream of Legends, which came out recently, with book three set for around January of 2012. Readers who like this series tend to be those who like authors like George R.R. Martin, Steven Erikson, and the kinds of writers with immersive, epic series that you can really dive into.

My Rising Dawn Saga is an epic-scale urban fantasy, and has significant dashes of horror, sci-fi, and techno-thriller elements. It is a little harder to directly compare to something out there, but I always say that if you like the kind of topics you see in Jim Butcher books, and like epic-scale stories with ensemble casts, then this series just may work well for you! Very heavy on the mythical and supernatural. It includes book one, The Exodus Gate, and book two, The Storm Guardians, with book three on the horizon just around mid-summer.

I also write short fiction, the most recently published being “In the Mountain Skies”, a steampunk tale introducing the Solomon Maccabee and Harvey characters. It is found in Kerlak Publishing’s Dreams of Steam anthology. You will be seeing much more of Solomon and Harvey in the future!

If I was asked to describe my writing, I tend to gravitate towards building stories with ensemble casts, and weaving a larger story together using multiple character threads. The larger story is viewed through different angles, or perspectives, depending on the character thread. I sometimes work a little bit of a literary edge into it, and enjoy developing some complexity and layering in the plot.

My influences include my first ones such as Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, as well as others like George R.R. Martin, Glen Cook, Clive Barker, C.S. Friedman, David Gemmell, Robert E. Howard, and others.

In order to keep up with all of this, I drink lots of Monster Energy drinks….!

Completing epic-scale works at the rate you do certainly requires more than Monster Energy drinks. I say this because you also attend a lot of book signings, writing events and SF/Fantasy conventions. For those writers who struggle to fit it all in, can you tell us a little bit about what works for you?

It does require a little more than a moderate allotment of Monster Energy drinks, although the green cans do come in handy on some of the more marathon sessions. I think just being consistent in writing is the main thing for me. I try to write nearly every day. Obviously, in a convention run, this doesn’t happen on the weekends of the events themselves, but when I am back home I am hard at it first thing, early in the morning.

I also don’t allow myself to linger long on a thread where I am not flowing easily. I try not to “force things” in a given session, but work where the momentum is going. I’ve found that this really helps to make each session very productive. The key is getting the most out of time. You’d be surprised at how much time you can waste if you are inefficient.

The other part is compartmentalizing. By that I mean keep the Facebook, blogging, and other more interactive or promotional activities in their own time box and don’t let them bleed over into the times that you set aside for writing, research, and the rare moment of R & R. It can seem very structuralized, but things can get away from you in a hurry otherwise.

I do have the additional advantage of having developed and worked on these story lines, characters, and other elements for many years now, dating back to the mid 90’s in the case of the Rising Dawn Saga and Fires in Eden series. That depth of engagement with these two series also helps to keep things on pace.

Last, I believe the good working relationship I have with Amanda DeBord on the Rising Dawn Saga and Karen Leet on the Fires in Eden series, as my editors, helps keep the schedule on course. I strive to hand them as clean of copy as possible, so that they can put their attention on refinements rather than larger problems.

Above all, though, this is all my big playground. I love creating these stories, so it doesn’t seem like “work” to me, even though the hours spent are tremendous. I feel most comfortable when I am immersed in writing on one of these two series, so it never seems like “pressure” when I am working on them with the kind of schedule I am on with Seventh Star Press.

Who would you identify as the audience for your writing, and is it the same audience that would enjoy your films?

After four novels, I have begun to see a few certain groups emerging with the two series. One group consists of dedicated fans of high fantasy, epic fantasy, and heroic fantasy, and these gravitate largely towards the Fires in Eden series. The second group is made of fans of urban and paranormal fantasy, technological thrillers, and science fiction, a little more diverse of a group in terms of reading tastes. This group gravitates more fully to the Rising Dawn Saga. The third group is comprised of a core of readers with a very broad reading range, and these tend to overlap between the two series.

Having a medieval fantasy and urban fantasy series running together definitely broadens my range, in terms of the potential readers that some aspect of my work will appeal to.

It has been especially interesting to watch the readership that is forming for the Rising Dawn Saga, though. I have had readers that are hard science fiction fans and military thriller fans who like it a lot, and who normally don’t pick up any fantasy-oriented books. I think they find the eclectic mix of things, such as the supernatural alongside high end military hardware, to be intriguing, with just enough of the story grounded in reality, political issues, and technological issues that they can buy into the plot.

My novels do tend to have a bit of complexity in terms of the number of characters, layers, and threads, so I would have to say that my readers are not the type who are fully satisfied with a lighter style of reading material. They are willing to be more dedicated in focus and attention to a book, and do not mind seeing a literary edge from time to time. I like to think that I have a nice payoff for them, as they begin to uncover the layers and range of elements embedded throughout the story.

Of course, now with Solomon Maccabee and Harvey coming into play with my steampunk short story in Dreams of Steam (Kerlak Publishing), called “In the Mountain Skies,” the range of possible readers may grow a little more! We’ll just have to see.

The readers of my books definitely have no trouble in engaging with my films, but the opposite is not necessarily true. Film viewers who are not readers consume stories in a very different manner. The things that work well in books do not necessarily work as well in film, and vice versa, so this last group of dedicated film viewers is also distinctive in nature.

If you could meet any two individuals, the first an author, and the second being someone unrelated to writing or publishing, who would they be and why?

This one is a fairly easy one for me, as two individuals immediately leap to mind. As far as authors go, J.R.R. Tolkien, because he was the writer that sparked the fire in me regarding fantasy. I would love to just sit down, have a pint of beer, and enjoy a conversation with him. Would be even better to have the visit in a quaint pub, like the one where the Inklings met. I gained a liking for mashed peas when I visited England a couple years ago, so pub food is always a nice bonus! I would really like to get at some of the things that were most important to Professor Tolkien in regards to his writing, in terms of the themes and issues he set out to explore in a fantasy context.

The second part of your question is the historical Jesus of Nazareth, and I am addressing this in the context of meeting someone in a face to face, physical capacity. I have had questions I have struggled with my entire life, and I would love to have the opportunity to just ask a few things that have burned within me, and caused me a great deal of trouble from time to time when it comes to contemplating the larger questions of life, the universe, and the nature of the human spirit. I would like to get past all the difficulties of interpretations, translations, interior understandings, and other similar things, and be able to speak plainly on a few key matters. There are so many portrayals of Jesus throughout history, and so many layers to work through, it seems, that it would be nice to just meet Him in a simple manner, like visiting with my mother and talking in the kitchen. My gut instinct tells me that I would finally be at ease after such a discussion.

Writers, especially of fantasy and science fiction, create worlds for readers to explore and enjoy, and for characters to inhabit. It seems they are often filled not only with wonder, but also strife. Given the choice of one of the worlds (from your two main series), which would you prefer to inhabit and why would you select it over the other?

Of the two worlds, I would have to say Ave from the Fires in Eden series. The reason is pretty straightforward.

The world depicted in the Rising Dawn Saga is a parallel world to our own. The story takes place in a setting that, in terms of time, is slightly ahead of ours. As such, inhabiting that world would not involve much of a difference from this one, assuming I did not become involved in something that “parted the veil” to the worlds beyond, as happens to several characters in the Rising Dawn Saga.

The non-physical realms in the Rising Dawn Saga are extensively developed, from the wondrous Middle Lands, to Adonai’s realms, to the places like the Grey Lands and other realms located within the Abyss, but they remain pretty inaccessible to the average inhabitant of Terra (the physical world that is close to our own). Ave’s lands and realms, no matter how exotic in nature, are much more accessible to its occupants. It also has some jaw-dropping places within it, which are not limited to land surfaces!

Great dangers and strife are present in both, in an imminent sense. The Ten-Fold Kingdom of Diabolos in the Rising Dawn Saga is like a realm of entire worlds, and it threatens both physical and non-physical realms. Similarly, in the Fires in Eden series, the Unifier is threatening all lands that resist bending knee to Him. The danger and strife factor is about six of one, and a half-dozen of the other, in truth.

Ultimately, though, the world of Ave would take me to a place completely different from my own, and entails the medieval world, with a presence of the mystical and magical, that I’ve always wanted to experience for myself. I feel that I have a good sense of what it is like to experience Terra, and for that reason I would give the world of Ave the edge in a choice between worlds to inhabit.

If you had the opportunity to be interviewed by an individual (via radio, television, podcast, newspaper, blog, etc.), who would you like to be interviewed by and why?

Terry Ervin, because he conducts thorough, engaging interviews! Wait, I am being interviewed by Terry Ervin right here, so I guess you’d want me to move on to another selection!

Well, since you are referring to the future, perhaps Oprah? It would be groundbreaking for her to host a small press fantasy author as her book choice, don’t you think? I am confident that an appearance on her show would knock my print and eBook sales figures up by at least five or ten more units! (humor intended, folks!)

Or maybe we can go with hard rock DJ Eddie Trunk, host of That Metal Show on VH1 Classic, as he is one of the coolest media personalities on the planet, and there are many, many hard rock and metal bands with members who fly the flag of fantasy literature. I’m not kidding in the latter regard, as I am always amazed to learn of the musicians in this genre who are very well read fantasy enthusiasts.

I’ll throw a third suggestion out there; George Noory of Coast to Coast AM. I think he would absolutely love the topical areas and storyline contained within the Rising Dawn Saga.

This is actually a very hard question, as I am really flattered and honored to have any zine, blogger, podcaster, or other media person, no matter what size their audience is, take enough interest in my work that they want to interview me, or have me on their show.

There really is no single individual in this regard. I hope that doesn’t sound like an evasion, but I’m thrilled to be on anything, from an interview on a fantasy blog site like Bookworm Blues or Watch Play Read, to a podcast visit like ones I have done with Jon Klement of DragonTalk Radio, or mainstream appearances like I did on a morning show in Memphis on the ABC affiliate there while touring in support of The Storm Guardians. All end up being special visits, for their own unique reasons.

I will say that Oprah, Eddie Trunk, and George Noory would be pretty darn cool, though!

You’re very right, Stephen. Sometimes narrowing things down to only one can be very difficult, and a single selection may not be the right answer. But, with that in mind, one last question before we wrap up. What is one of the tougher lessons you’ve learned as a writer?

I think the toughest lesson that you have to learn and adjust to as a writer involves steeling yourself for the long haul. Unlike the mediums of film, video games, or music, books are not something that is as quickly consumed by the public.

The path of being a writer working to have a career is often laborious, and must be measured by small, incremental steps. That does not mean that lightning doesn’t strike from time to time, but a writer must understand that this is a marathon in which you must always strive to grow and develop in your craft, all the while shouldering the load of getting out there and representing your work, and promoting it every way you can, as nobody else is going to do it for you.

In many ways, the path gets even harder after being published, and you must approach it in a very calm, resolved state of mind. You have to wear multiple hats, and quickly get a bearing on time management. There are going to be many days when you are very tired or don’t have a dollar in your pocket, but things still need to get done, or be addressed. Not the easiest of adjustments sometimes, but very necessary ones if you desire to have a sustainable career.

Great answers, Stephen. Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Thanks so much for the opportunity to visit with you, Terry. I hope that readers have been able to glean a little more regarding what my work is about, and my approach to it. I’ve enjoyed this interview greatly, and hope to have a return visit with you again in the future!

You find out more about Stephen Zimmer by visiting his website: StephenZimmer.com and his publisher (where you can learn more about his books and view some book trailers).

Here are a few places his books are available a varitey of places, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble (ebooks are $1.99 and $2.99).

***

If you are an author or know one who might be interested in being interviewed for Up Around the Corner, please contact me through my website.

"The Exchange Box" soon to be released as a Mystic Signals Exclusive Story

2011-04-25T18:06:00.000-04:00

In May my short story "The Exchange Box" is slated to be released as a Mystic Signals print exclusive story.

To the right is art related to the story (which may also be the cover for the print anthology).

Teaser: A single mother is approached by a strange man with a very unusual business arrangement. Thinking only of the money and providing a better life for her son, she agrees, but what will the ultimate cost be?

I'll be sure to let you know when it becomes available.

Easter Egg Hunt 2011

2011-04-23T12:15:00.000-04:00

This morning was the local Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the Federation of Churches. A great time for all of the kids in town--especially as the rain held off.

The picture to the right shows just a small section of the event, with a some of the Kindergartners. There are four areas set up by age group.

It's fun to watch. Most of the kids start out going for certain colors. Then they get serious and, as a dense pack, move across the the field in unison, almost like locusts, snatching up every egg remaining in sight.

Inside the eggs, a note reminding the children that Jesus loves them, a piece of candy, and a small percentage have a tag for a prize to claim. My daughter (the Kindergartner) got a kazoo, a notebook and a small puzzle. My older daughter (Jr. High) helped set up and distribute the prizes. Smiles and laughter everywhere.

An Interview with Action-Adventure and Fantasy Author David Wood

2011-04-18T20:20:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Up Around the Corner, David. Please, tell us a little about yourself and your writing:

I’m a father of two, teacher by day, author by night. Under my “real” name, I write action-adventure novels with a bit of an Indiana Jones flavor. Under my pen name, David Debord, I am the author of the fantasy series, The Absent Gods. When I need a break from writing, I coach youth sports and co-host the ThrillerCast podcast (No, it’s not about Michael Jackson) with friend and author, Alan Baxter.

Can you tell us a little about your action-adventure novels, and why you decided to author them using your “real” name, unlike with your fantasy series?

My action-adventure novels feature two former Navy SEALs who keep finding themselves caught up in searches for an artifact of religious or historical significance. I describe them as Clive Cussler meets National Treasure meets Indiana Jones. I think I chose to use my real name because deep down I feared no one but friends and family would read my books, and I wanted to make them easy to find. Fortunately, that has not turned out to be the case at all. By the time I completed The Silver Serpent, the first Absent Gods novel, I had gained a following in the thriller genre, and didn’t want to create any confusion. Consequently, I went with Debord, my maternal grandfather’s surname, to retain a family connection.

Where do you get your ideas and inspiration for the locations and artifacts in your action-adventure novels?

Locations are usually a mix of places I’ve visited and places I’d like to visit. I chose most of the sites included in Cibola while my wife and I were on our 10th anniversary trip to the American Southwest. As far as the artifacts go, it’s a mixed bag. The central artifact in Dourado was inspired by a single Bible verse I stumbled across. In Cibola, the artifact that sets the plot in motion was inspired by a brief article about the discovery of an old Spanish outpost, and I let my imagination run wild from there. The book in-progress is a bit different. It was inspired by a book on the psychology of killing, and worked backward, asking “what if” questions until I came up with a MacGuffin that could work for what I had planned.

You indicated, you’re a teacher. Do your students know you’re an author? If so, has your experience as a writer and published author in any way impacted how you teach—has it affected how you approach reading and writing in the classroom?

I didn’t say anything about it for a long time, but I kept copies of my first David Debord book in my classroom library. One day, a student picked it up and said, “Cool! My dad has this book!” I couldn’t resist admitting that I had written it. After that, the word spread quickly. Now most of my students already know about me before they get to my classroom at the beginning of a school year. I now co-sponsor the Authors’ Club at school, and the fact that I write seems to encourage and inspire my students. In the classroom, I think it buys me a little extra credibility in the minds of student and parents alike. I think being a writer actually made it harder for me to teach writing. It’s difficult to teach someone how to do something that you do so naturally that you don’t really know how you do it. It forced me to dissect the writing process and understand what it was I was doing. That made me a better teacher and also a better writer.

The student must have picked up your first novel in The Absent Gods series, The Silver Serpent. What is the series about and what age range would enjoy reading it, and your action-adventure novels?

In The Absent Gods, I explore the concept of what happens when the thing you want most in the world, and the fate for which you are destined, are at odds? The story begins with the classic motif of the dissatisfied young people in a remote village who get caught up in what seems to be a traditional quest story, but it soon becomes much more. The book is geared toward adults, but teens would enjoy it as well. The same is true of my action-adventure novels.

Taking a wide view of writing and being a published author, what is one bit of advice that you would like to share with other writers, especially those early in their career or seeking to get their first novel published?

Being a writer is both a wonderful endeavor and a lonely one, and it’s important to have a support system. The internet makes it very easy to connect with other writers. Depending on where you are in the process, you might want to join an online critique group, meet other writers who are seeking representation or publication, or self-publishing. Just don’t make the mistake of spending all your time online visiting writing-related sites, listening to podcasts, and not actually getting around to writing.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’m also the co-host of ThrillerCast, a podcast devoted to the thriller genre. Check it out at http://www.thrillerpodcast.com/, or download it on iTunes. If you’d like to learn more about me and my work, visit me at http://www.davidwoodweb.com/ or http://www.daviddebord.com/.

My thanks to Terry for the interview. Looking forward to reading Blood Sword!

You're welcome! And I know you're busy working on your next Action-Adventure novel. Don't hesitate to let us know when it's available.

===

If you are an author or know one who might be interested in being interviewed for Up Around the Corner, please contact me through my website.

Disquieting Visions Published: Goal--A Sequel that Compliments while Truly Standing Alone

2011-04-12T13:42:00.007-04:00

I'm a little behind...

Disquieting Visions published my article, Goal: A Sequel that Compliments while Truly Standing Alone way back in March.

They also posted my Book Trailer for Flank Hawk as Freebie Friday post: Disquieting Visions Freebie Friday from Terry Ervin

SFS Presentation Follow-up

2011-04-10T20:29:00.008-04:00

I had a great time returning to SFS. I enjoyed the opportunity to speak to eight groups, varying in size from 20 to nearly 100 students. It's hard to tell exact numbers because, for one session, my discussion was electronically channelled to an overflow room, and another session consisted of a group viewing the recording of my first period presentation (while I ate a quick lunch). But the overriding reason--I was too busy to count!

In addition to meeting students and talking to them about writing, answering questions, and giving away signed copies of Flank Hawk, I had the opportunity to speak with a few of my former teachers from back when I attended St. Francis.

If you're interested, here is the link to view my the first session, which was recorded (obviously). It's pretty good, but like anything else, I improved over the second and following sessions. Running time is about 43 minutes.

A big thanks goes to Virginia Rodeman and Kathy Gullette for doing what it took to make it happen, to Sue Kenny for photos of the event, Joe Sweeney and Steve Loomis for catching me up on what's happened at SFS over the years, and Carl Janke--it was good to see you again and hope you enjoyed a stroll (even if fictional) down memory lane with "Skull Face Returns."

And, SFS Students, keep those email questions coming!

An Interview with Dark Urban Fantasy Author Erica Hayes

2011-04-06T18:43:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Up Around the Corner, Erica. Please, tell us a little about yourself and your writing career thus far.

Hi Terry! Thanks for inviting me. I started writing when I was at high school. I read mostly fantasy – my favorites were Dragonlance and Janny Wurts, I guess that dates me, huh? – so that's what I tried to write. But I didn't get serious about it until many years and several boring jobs later. I finished a few manuscripts, and joined some writers groups, both online and in real life. Swapped some critiques, learned some stuff, got a couple of short stories published. When I first started submitting novels to editors, I got some really constructive rejections that helped me a lot.

So by the time I reached the point where I was submitting to agents, I was pretty confident that my work was good – it was just a matter of finding someone who thought it was commercial. I signed with my agent in mid-2008, and we made my first sale – my Shadowfae series – later that year. Now, I've written four books for that publisher, and I'm working on a few more projects in the background.

You’re more than welcome for the invite. You’ve worked hard to improve your skills and hone your talent so as to find a publisher. Where did you get the idea for the Shadowfae series and how did you design the world created for it?

Melbourne – the setting for the series – is the nearest large city to where I grew up, and it's a place where the murderous clashes between the local gangsters get a lot of publicity. They're front page news, and get TV shows made about them, that kind of thing. I started wondering why these guys would behave like that, and being a fantasy nut, of course I decided it was because they were controlled by warring demons. And that's the basic premise of my series – Melbourne is ruled by a demon lord and his vampire mafiosi, only no one realizes it, because the supernatural creatures hide themselves from human eyes with magical glamour.

After that, designing the world was easy. I knew I wanted it to be a dark and sensual place with very few rules. Most of the locations are real. Only there are insane fairies and vampires and who knows what else lurking on every street corner!

The world of the Shadowfae Chronicles is definitely filled with a variety of magical creatures. If you were destined be such a creature inhabiting that world, which would you choose to be and which type of creature would you definitely not want to be, and why?

Well… all their lives kind of suck, actually :) The demons are the toughest, but they're self-absorbed and lonely, and always under attack from other demons who crave their power. No one messes with vampires, because they're hungry and violent and can kill you without breaking a sweat, but it's not a very nice life. Fairies are cool and funky, and they're mad so they have a lot of fun, but they're mostly poor, because they can't hold down a job, and get pushed around a lot. Maybe I'd be a banshee, like Mina from Poison Kissed. She's tough and pretty and takes no nonsense, and she can kill people with her magical song. That'd be cool!

I’d have voted for a fairy, maybe a water one. But you’re right. They do get pushed around a lot. The world of the Shadowfae Chronicles is dark, filled with sex and violence, with characters plotting--some vying for power or revenge, while others simply struggle to survive or escape. When you write, who do you see as your readers or audience, and does this have any influence on the novels you produce?

Absolutely it does. There's no point in trying to sell a book if you've written something no one will want to read. I'm aiming at readers of dark urban fantasy and romance, because that's what I love to read. But those two groups aren't always the same people!

So for the romance readers, I have to make sure the ending is satisfying, and that the romance part of the plot stays front and center. Romance readers also like a certain kind of romance hero – he's basically a strong, sexy, decent guy, even if he's got a dark and twisted streak. I have to make sure I don't buck those expectations too much, or I'll alienate that audience. Some of my heroes are a bit left-of-center – I've done a snake shapeshifter, for instance, and a serial killer. Not your typical romance heroes! So it's a lot of fun trying to make those characters strong and sexy and desirable, while still staying true to themselves.

Whereas for urban fantasy readers, it's more about the rich world-building, and the heroine, who needs to be a strong, take-charge kind of girl. My heroines tend to be the little people – they’re not the toughest or most powerful character. So it's cool fun bringing out the strength in those characters, even when they think they haven't got any. That's more interesting to me than a heroine who kicks everyone's butt all the time – but again, that's kind of an expectation in that genre. So I stray too far from it at my peril.

When you began writing, what were your goals and where are you at with respect to achieving them? At this stage in your writing career, have you updated and/or established any new goals to shoot for?

Oh, yes. The goal-setting never stops! When I began, I was doing it for fun. I subbed a few short stories to some small e-zines and they got accepted, and I started to think my writing wasn't too bad. Boy, was I wrong :) There's such a big leap in technical skill from almost-there to selling professionally. I mean, it's a subtle leap, but it's huge.

So I decided I wanted a pro sale. I never made one, not in short stories. But by then I was writing novels, which really appealed to me – I'm a strategic, rather than a tactical, thinker. I like the big picture. I decided I needed an agent. Then the goal was to sell a book. Then to sell more books in that series. Now, I want to sell another series, diversify, reach more readers. Win a RITA, make the NYT list… ha ha! One day…

But also personal writing goals. My Shadowfae series has new main characters for each book, but one day I'd really like to write a series with a continuing MC. That's a different challenge.

For those who might not know, the RITA is a major Romance Writers of America award.

Okay, the next question isn’t really writing related. If you could go to lunch with anyone, living or deceased, who would you choose, where would you dine, and what would you hope to discuss?

Well, if God's available, I'd really like to have a chat! We could go to the pub, have a few beers… Or Genghis Khan. He'd have some good stories to tell over a nice roasted pig or something. If I had to pick an author, probably Stephen King, just because I love his books and he seems so weird.

Quite an array of choices, Erica. Each would definitely be interesting. As we’re approaching the end if the interview, is there anything else you’d like to add?

Thanks for having me as a guest on your blog. It's been great fun!

You’re most welcome!

You can learn more about Erica through the following links:

Erica Hayes: Urban Fantasy Author Website and Blog

Her work can be found in bookstores everywhere as well as online at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com

===

If you are an author or know one who might be interested in being interviewed for Up Around the Corner, please contact me through my website.

Coming Soon: Author Interviews

2011-04-03T12:40:00.005-04:00

`
I have a number of author interviews in the pipeline. I intend to include them as a regular occurrence here at Up Around the Corner. I hope you find them of interest: A variety of authors representing an array of genres, with questions that aren't 'run of the mill' and answers along the same lines.

If you're an author, or know of one, use the contact page via my website to inquire about an interview (if there is an interest).
`

Presentation at St. Francis de Sales High School

2011-03-30T19:30:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow I will be traveling to St. Francis de Sales High School in Toledo to discuss writing with students during their English classes.

I graduated from SFS many years ago and it will be interesting to walk the halls once again.

Flank Hawk in Amazon.com Top 100 Ratings

2011-03-28T09:24:00.011-04:00

Readers and Potential Readers of Flank Hawk,

Flank Hawk is currently ranked:

#21 in Top Rated Historical Fantasy
#53 in Top Rated Epic Fantasy

If you've read and enjoyed Flank Hawk but haven't taken the time to provide a review at Amazon.com, please consider doing so. It doesn't matter whether you've read Flank Hawk as an ebook or print version. It doesn't matter if you obtained your copy through Amazon.com (print/Kindle). All you need to have is an active account at Amazon.com.

Positive reviews do make a difference, just as tags and lists (Listmanias) do. They help bring Flank Hawk to the attention of potential readers. They help a reader decide if Flank Hawk might be something they'd like to give a try.

Classic Humor: Two Tens for a Five

2011-03-26T11:54:00.003-04:00

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It's gotta be hard to view this and not at least crack a smile.

Awesome Authors I met at the Book Lover's Festival

2011-03-20T19:36:00.014-04:00

A couple of questions to start with:

Who do you happen to sit down next to during breakfast or lunch at a writer's convention or festival? This, at least, a writer often has some ability to control.

With assigned seating during signings, which writer is placed to your right and to your left?

Who do you sit next to or connect with when on a discussion panel?

Sometimes I am fortunate. I say this because in my experience over 95% of the authors I've met are really nice people--willing to talk, share experiences and, when possible, direct readers your way. Other times I am very fortunate. At the most recent event, I feel as if I fell into in the 'very fortunate' category.

Here are just a few of the folks I met:

Elizabeth Vaughan sat to my left during the book signing session. I'd overheard during conversation earlier in the day that she was from my home town of Toledo and we connected even before the signing! And we both enjoyed the Bloodsong series by C. Dean Andersson (the author who's blurb is on the front of Flank Hawk). Elizabeth writes romance fantasy, with some great titles out there--a new one slated for release in April 2011.
.

I met Stephen Zimmer during a panel discussion on Fantasy/SF and Horror. He's an energetic and interesting guy with some cool fantasy titles out. He's going to be at ConCarolinas 2011 so I'll be sure to see that we cross paths again.
.

Bonnie Stewart sat to my right during the book signing. She's sharp and engaging and knows more than a bit about writing and publishing. If you like horror, especially Southern Gothic, check out her works. You won't be disappointed.

Troy Book Lover's Festival Follow-Up

2011-03-14T20:31:00.001-04:00

I had a great time at the 2011 Troy Book Lover's Festival this past weekend. Sold some books, met some great readers along with some pretty darn awesome writers.

Sue, owner of Around About Books (see picture top right of Sue and me), hosted the event and did a wonderful job. Friday evening and all day Saturday were filled with events, from a Spring Hat Contest and drawings for gift baskets, to discussion panels and book signings. And of course, there was plenty of good food and great conversation about books, stories, reading, writing and authors.

I was honored to be one of the panel authors discussing SF/Fantasy and Horror with attendees.

I'll post here about some of the writers I met over the next week or so and the panel on publishing presented by three small press owners (as time permits). I'll definitely be attending the Book Lover's Festival next year--and whether you're a reader or writer--or both, you should plan on it too!

Me after setting up my table just
before the scheduled Book Signing

Troy Book Lovers Festival (March 11 &12)

2011-03-10T06:15:00.000-05:00

I will be one of many authors participating in the Troy's Book Lovers Festival (in Troy, Ohio) on Friday, March 11th and Saturday, March 12th.

See the link for more information on location and events/times.

Link: Troy's Book Lover's Festival, Hosted by Around About Books

Hope to see you there!

Deficit--Again!

2011-03-09T17:16:00.010-05:00

You might guess from this being my second post on the topic (Deficit Spending by the U.S. Government) that it is a great concern of mine.

The U.S. Government in February 2011 posted the largest monthly deficit ever: 223 Billion dollars. That's in 28 days!

For additional perspective, consider that last year the U.S. Government paid (or maybe racked up would be a better way to state it) 207 Billion dollars on the National Debt. What will happen this year, with a significantly larger debt, and with interest rates set to rise from currently historic lows?

Compare February 2011's deficit ($223 Billion) to the entire 2007 Fiscal Year: $161 Billion.

Now, look at Congress, debating and going nowhere about the current fiscal year's budget (the previous House of Representatives proposed or voted on a budget before the most recent election so we're working off of a series of continuing resolutions). As things stand, the House of Representatives (controlled by the Republicans) propose roughly $60 Billion in cuts. The Senate (controlled by the Democrats) propose about $5 Billion in cuts, claiming the Republican cuts are too extreme. WHAT?

The 'proposed cuts' of the House Republicans (if implemented) would cover only about 25% of the February 2011 Deficit. The 'proposed cuts' of the Senate Democrats would equal about 2.2% of the February 2011 Deficit.

Is there a disconnect here? Isn't there a 'Run-away Spending Train' not only racing toward a cliff, but picking speed along the way? The whole time the 'political engineers' in charge are bickering about what minuscule fraction of resistance should be placed on the brakes.

The Gross National Debt

Note: When this blog article was posted, the debt totalled: $14,330,436,855,712
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Flank Hawk Ebook 1/2 Price Sale at Smashwords.com

2011-03-06T12:56:00.005-05:00

It's Read an Ebook Week at Smashwords, and all Gryphonwood novels (including Flank Hawk) are 50% off.

Smashwords offers just about any format you could want, including .mobi for Kindle readers and .epub for Nook, Kobo, etc... Just choose the books you want, and enter RAE50 at checkout to get your 50% discount.

The sale runs through March 12, 2011.

Flank Hawk's Most Recent 5 Star Review

2011-02-27T13:12:00.003-05:00

"I really enjoyed this book. It was well written, the characters are interesting, and the story never dull. Not to mention the fascinating underlying concept of Nazi technology being introduced into a world of swords and sorcery. I'm definitely looking forward to a sequel." --Volpot

I saw this after spending a few hours working on the sequel (Working Title: Blood Sword).

Beyond that I noted that Amazon.com recorded sales of both the Kindle and print versions of Flank Hawk. Sort of a Hat Trick. :)

Erica Hayes Article: Chapter Breaks and Pacing

2011-02-26T14:35:00.003-05:00

I came across this article by Dark Urban Fantasy author Erica Hayes on writing. She discusses some insights into chapter breaks and pacing throughout a novel.

Although it's something that concerns writers, readers might find it worth their time to check out--see what's going on and how authors "manipulate" a reader's sense of time and urgency.

Link: Chapter Breaks and Pacing

Featured Writer: Strange, Weird, and Wonderful Magazine

2011-02-25T11:39:00.001-05:00

Cool News!

I will be the Featured Writer for Strange, Weird, and Wonderful Magazine's Summer 2011 Issue in which my short story "Accelerated Justice" will appear.

***

Almost time for the State Plant of Ohio to Appear

2011-02-20T21:52:00.007-05:00

In the Spring they magically begin to appear along roads and highways. At first by the dozen, then multiplying into thousands and tens of thousands and more--certain to remain in full bloom until well after the autumn leaves fall.

They inch along their migratory path over the roads and highways, slowing and halting traffic.

Maybe, with the slow economy here in Ohio, there will be fewer this year. Nevertheless already, with the thawing, refreezing, thawing cycle in full gear, potholes are emerging (if that's the right word). Those, however, rarely require even one of the orange barrels. But, like the retuning songbirds of spring, the potholes are the harbinger of the dreaded ODOT (Ohio Department of Transportation) Orange Barrels of Doom.

If You Love a Book and/or Author and Want to Help Spread the Word

2011-02-14T18:46:00.001-05:00

"I loved your novel! What can I do to let others know about it too?"

I've heard avid readers ask this question, or a close variation, occasionally about Flank Hawk but with respect to other authors they enjoy reading as well. I suspect that this question crosses a reader's mind quite often, but they're simply at a loss as to what they can do.

I have a few standard suggestions and all of them fall within the scope the 30 ideas that an article at Bookmarket.com provides (see link below). But, instead of the article just providing a list, each suggestion is accompanied by an explanation. Some are common sense, such as 'Buy the book and encourage others to do so.' Other suggestions are not.

Give the article a look and see what you might be able to do. As I'm always happy to receive a little help, I'm more than confident other authors, whether debut or bestseller, would appreciate your assistance in spreading the word.

Article: If You Love a Book Author and Want to Help them...

I will add that I am forever grateful to those friends, readers, and fellow authors who've helped me out so much--reviews, interviews, telling friends, giving me a heads-up for events, and more. You never know when or where a good deed will appear. The picture above shows a cookie given to me by Susan Swinehart, an investment professional who helps me and my wife out with our IRAs and other retirement investments (we're minor clients at best). Although I only see her twice a year, when she found out about Flank Hawk being published, the cookie showed up at my place of employment. Beyond that, I know she she spread the news about my novel, as a person from her office soon after showed up at a book event specifically to obtain signed copies for gifts.

Hopefully I've helped other authors out a fraction of how much I've been assisted, and I will continue to lend a hand where I can.

By the way, I've begun a project for this blog to interview authors. If you're an author (or know one), contact me so that we might put something together.

A Story of Survival: Physical & Spiritual

2011-02-13T18:03:00.001-05:00

The survival story ("A Glimpse of Eternity") told by Ian McCormack himself, is compelling to say the least. It's one so well told, I suspect I'll never in my writing ever be able to match it.

It's a gut-filled to the core struggle for survival filled with episodes of courage and despair, uncaring cruelty and indifference, racism and loyalty, and so much more, including a glimpse of Heaven and shaft into the dark depths of Hell.

If stories with even a hint of religion aren't your thing, don't let that keep you from listening. Thus, if you find the beginning a bit hokey or scripture isn't your thing, skip into the video about four minutes. Sit down and relax, maybe with a handy beverage, and listen. Video: A Glimpse of Eternity

Or, if you prefer a written version which is much the same, here it is: "A Glimpse of Eternity"