Cover Art for Monsters, Maces and Magic: Outpost

Gryphonwood Press released the cover art for Monsters, Maces and Magic: Outpost, the first novel in my upcoming LitRPG series.

Cover Art by:  Drazenka Kimpel

New Series with Gryphonwood Press

Hey Folks,

Gryphonwood Press has accepted the first two novels in a new series for publication!

Monsters, Maces and Magic: Outpost
and
Monsters, Maces and Magic: Betrayal

Monsters, Maces and Magic is a LitRPG series, a fantasy sub-genre that has a connection to role playing games.

The cover artist, Drazenka Kimpel, has already been contracted. She did the cover art for Relic Hunted.

Outpost needs one more revision pass before I turn it in to Gryphonwood to be edited, and I am busy working to complete the first draft to Betrayal.

I will strive to keep you updated.

In any case, expect release of Outpost in early 2018, followed shortly there after by Betrayal.

Christmas in the Village (St. Paris, OH) --I'll be There

Hey Folks,

Just to let you know that I'll be a part of the Christmas in the Village celebration in St. Paris, on Saturday, December 2nd.

I will be part of the Craft Show, in the Municipal Building (135 W. Main Street), from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm with copies of my novels.

Who doesn't enjoy receiving a good novel (signed) for a Christmas present?

Plus, if you have questions about writing, fantasy or science fiction or whatever...stop by.

Take a look at the flier below to see all of the events and activities.

Hope to see you there!

An Opportunity via David Wood (for Writers and Readers)

Folks,

David Wood is the successful author of the Dane Maddock Series. In addition, he is the owner of Gryphonwood Press, and host of the podcast Wood on Words. He also co-authored with me, Rock House and Cavern.

David has an opportunity to help out some students (many of them financially disadvantaged).

As rewards, for readers you can be a named character or a character tied up in the plot of a future novel (plus a signed copy of the book), steeply discounted ebooks, and more.

As rewards for authors, marketing, promoting and mentoring opportunities.

Below is a video that explains the donation project:

Here is a direct link to the fundraising effort, with details on rewards:

Link: Get My Daughter's Cheer Squad to State!

Opportunity ends December 15th

Gryphonwood Press Sale: SF, Fantasy, Thriller, Horror

Gryphonwood Press is having a 99¢ sale on a large number of ebook titles (across most platforms) from Black Friday to Cyber Monday (actually they're reduced beginning today)!

Check them out and maybe pick up a few. Two of my titles are included: Flank Hawk and Relic Tech

Click on the pic or HERE to check out specific titles.

900,000+ Words of Fiction Published

This month, with the publication of Cavern, the total number of words (fiction) I've had published is 901,000.

I anticipate that I will surpass 1 million before 2018 ends.

Cavern #1 in Action/Adventure

Cool News!

Cavern (co-authored with David Wood) has reached #1 in Amazon's Kindle Worlds for Action & Adventure.

Consider getting your copy today: Cavern: A Dane Maddock Adventure

Re-Elected to Village Council

Last night the voters of St. Paris showed their confidence in me by re-electing me to serve on the Village Council!

Cavern Released!

My second foray into a writing collaboration with David Wood has resulted in Cavern, a Dane Maddock (Kindle Worlds) Adventure.

A deadly Enemy seeks an ancient power.

When an old journal falls into Dane Maddock's hands, he and Bones Bonebrake find themselves caught up in a search for a lost excavation site and the secret it hides. But the journal holds more than meets the eye. 

Already at odds with dangerous local rivals, Maddock and Bones soon find themselves in another race with a clandestine organization called the Trident, who are bent on securing a lethal prize.

Can Maddock and Bones survive what lies deep within the CAVERN?


If you're interested or even curious, you can find where to get your copy and more here: Cavern

The Dane Maddock Series is a little like a modern Indiana Jones, with an old pulp novel feel. The first novel in the series I read was Quest. My personal favorite is Icefall. Consider jumping in on those, and more. You can learn more about David Wood, his writings (including the Dane Maddock Series) here: David Wood's Website

For those who may not know, the first novella I co-authored with David Wood was Rock House.

Review of Relic Tech by AudioBook Reviewer

Here's a link to a recent review of Relic Tech. It's mostly positive :)

Link: Relic Tech (Crax War Chronicles Book 1) By Terry W. Ervin II 

If you're interested in checking it out yourself, Relic Tech is available in print, ebook and audio (of course). Here is a link to find it: Where Available or you can follow the links listed on the left of this blog page.

Great GeekFest 2017

I will be participating at the Great GeekFest 2017 this Saturday, talking fantasy and science fiction and signing copies of my novels.

Location:
Delaware Main Library
84 E. Winter Street
Delaware, Ohio 43015

Time:
10:00 am until 5:00 pm.

Authors, Artists, Vendors, RPGs, Cosplay, Video Games, Panels and more will be there.

Hope you will be too!

Follow this link for more information:
Great GeekFest 2017 Info

My Interview in the Toledo City Paper

If you have a moment, check out my interview with the Toledo City Paper!

Link: SCI-FI AUTHOR TERRY W. ERVIN II'S LATEST IS SET IN TOLEDO

Brutus V

Here's a pic of Brutus V.

He replaces Brutus IV from last year, who went home with a student...a graduating senior who had fed him each morning. Reports as of September is that he is doing well.

Brutus V is a classroom 'donation' from a student, who saw that I was preparing my tank and had an extra Betta fish that she did not want.

He looked sort of unhealthy...but after a couple weeks in his new tank, Brutus looks to be thriving, including more color. :)

River City Comic Con 2017

New Venue: Dyson Baudo Recreation Center, Marietta College  

More space and actual air conditioning!

For more information (time, schedule of events, other authors, guests and vendors, and directions) here is the link to the River City Comic Con's website:

Link: River City Comic Con 2017

General Sales Ranking Information (as of Sept. 2017)

Below is a basic chart, for those who might be interested, of overall sales performance of my books.

At a later date, I may break it down further, into ebook, print and audiobook sales.

My Interview in the Dayton City Paper

The Dayton City Paper interviewed me and author Allison M. Dickson ahead of our appearance for the Second Monday Author event at the Centerville Library.

Here is the article: Off the Shelf: Authors Allison M. Dickson and Terry W. Ervin to visit Centerville

The cover for Relic Hunted was used in the article (and article preview).

Notes for Today's Writing Effort

One of the things I do is outline novels and novellas, and even short stories. I don't complete detailed 'line by line' or 'action by action' outlines, but major events or plot twists or turns are there. Sometimes I will add dialogue bits or minor descriptions, so that I don't forget them.

Anyway, it helps me keep on track and increases productivity.

This is today's bit of the outline I am working from for my 2nd LitRPG (fantasy) novel effort. The tentative/working Title is Monsters, Maces and Magic: Betrayal. 

Actually this may end up being two or even three days to work from, depending on how much I manage to write.

Book Signing Event at the Amos Public Library in Sidney, Ohio

I will be joining eight other local authors at the Amos Public Library as part of an open house event to celebrate renovations and a new addition. We authors will be talking to readers and signing copies of our books.

Date: August 9, 2017
Time: 5:00 to 8:00 pm

Amos Memorial Public Library
230 E. North Street
Sidney, Ohio  45365

Hope to see you there!

Influences: Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger

Virtually every writer is influenced by what they learned and enjoyed growing up. The movie, Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger, really captured my attention as a youth.

Heck, if you've read Flank Hawk (and the other novels in the First Civilization's Legacy Series) and have seen this movie, you may recognize that the ogres in my novels are reminiscent of the troglodyte in the film.

Interview with Steven Brust (at Buzzy Mag)

Release Date: October 17, 2017

Came across this interview with Steven Brust. Talks a little about how he writes, collaboration, what's coming up , and the final Vlad Taltos book he is beginning to consider.

Here's a link to the interview, which includes the video version.

Link: Steven Brust Interview -- Author of The Taltos Fantasy Series

Conan the Destroyer Theme (Orchestra View)

I came across this remake of the Conan the Destroyer theme music, and thought it was interesting to watch the director and musicians recreate the classic music.



Okay 'classic' is what I would call it, maybe not so many others. Still, it's one of my favorite movies--just fun action/adventure.



Unfortruantely, in the trailer, Malak (the thief that accompanies Conan, played by Tracey Walter) is not highlighted. Yet, I think his part adds a lot to the movie.

My Novels at the St. Paris Public Library

A few citizens of St. Paris have asked about my novels and their availability at the St. Paris Public Library. Stopped by at took pictures of them on the shelves, ready for borrow and reading :)

A number of libraries around Ohio (Westerville, Piqua, Sidney, West Milton, Bexley, Centerville, Champaign County, Deleware and more) have copies--not always every novel, however.

Book Signing at Gathering Volumes (Perrysburg, Ohio) on July 20th

Hey Folks,

Just a quick reminder of my book event in on the 20th (Thursday) at Gathering Volumes Bookstore.

Gathering Volumes
196 E. South Boundary
Perrysburg, Ohio

From 4:00 until 7:00 pm

Here's a link for more details/information: Author Event Terry W. Ervin II

After the signing, I'll be meeting with the Fantasy Reading Group, and discussing the novel they selected for the month: Brimstone by Cherie Priest

Interview with Dueling Ogres (Podcast Episode 119)

Hey Folks,

Here's my interview with Dueling Ogres, where we discuss writing, Thunder Wells, Flank Hawk, my current work in progress, Classic TV, reliability and more...

Link to Access the Podcast: Episode 119: Viscount Me In

Note: Dueling Ogres will be posting a Youtube video version of the interview, which I will post when it becomes available.

Art Affair on the Square on July 15th

A quick notice that I will be at the Art Affair on the Square in Urbana, Ohio on Saturday, July 15th from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm.

I will be there along with seven fellow authors (including Addie J. King and William Weldy), talking to readers and signing/selling our books.

The Champaign County Library is hosting the Literary Tent again this year--A Big Thanks to Them! We will be located near the square (along the northeast sidewalk).

In addition there will be a street full of artists (over 60) of all types (including the Domestic Divas), along with food trucks and more.

**For more information, you can follow this link: Art Affair on the Square

American Civil War, Hochenwalt Files, and Besieged

So, right now I am in the middle of listening to The American Civil War, one of the Great Courses. Pretty interesting. Reminds me a lot of what I'd learned back when I was an active Civil War Re-enactor. Plus, learning some new things.

Just finished Shades of Gray, the Hochenwalt Files by Addie J. King. A good read, especially if you enjoy urban fantasy with lycanthropes in the plot.

Waiting for Besieged to be released (tomorrow). The next installment of the Iron Druid Chronicles, by Kevin Hearne. I'll probably listen to the audiobook version, narrated by Luke Daniels, before I actually get to read the print version.

Current Listen: Why Evil Exists

Currently I am listening to Why Evil Exists. The objective is to expand my knowledge and understanding, both just for my own benefit, and to benefit my writing.

This one has many chapters/lectures that I found very riveting and challenging. Others, I have to admit, I kind of zoned out at parts.

Anyway, it covers views and perspectives of evil from ancient times up to modern, examined through various faiths, philosophies, histories, fiction and even poetry.

My New "Thunder Wells" Hat

Thanks to St. Paris Embroidery, I now have a new hat to wear!

Review of Relic Tech at Kevin's Corner

Hey Folks,

Here's a review of Relic Tech posted today at Kevin's Corner.

Check it out if you have a moment or two. :)

Link: Review: Relic Tech: Crax War Chronicles Volume 1 by Terry W. Ervin II  

Review of Thunder Wells at Two Ends of the Pen

Debra L. Martin posted a review of Thunder Wells at Two Ends of the Pen.

If you have a moment, check it out and maybe leave a comment, if you agree or disagree, or whatever your thoughts about the review or novel may be.

Link: Review: THUNDER WELLS by Terry W. Ervin II

The Breakfast of Writing Champions!

Come on, you know it's true!

Follow Up from Westerville Presentation on World Building

Presenting

Information and a few quick photos from the event:

Due to a large reception for a new director at the Westerville Public Library (scheduled long after I was scheduled to present) I presented in the Staff Lounge, which worked out perfect for the 14 that attended. Most were writers, but one attendee was a film maker and one enjoyed learning about new things and had attended my previous presentation at the library.

Discussing Matte vs. Glossy Covers

Great questions and discussion. Those attending admitted I kept them engaged and was informative and helpful. That was the goal!

Speaking afterwards with Ms. Huffman, the Program and Community Engagement Director, we laid out a plan for a presentation engagement again next summer :)


It's an awesome library, and they have a lot going on for their patrons and the local community.

Scrawling a Signature on a copy of Genre Shotgun

Westerville and Bexley Libraries (Presentation and Panel)

Hey Folks,

Just a heads up on TWO upcoming events:

I will be at the Westerville Pubic Library on June 15th, giving a presentation on World Building, mostly related to Fantasy & Science Fiction. Plan to attend not only for that, but for discussion, questions answered and more. I will also have some of my books available.

Time:
Thursday, June 15th
7:00 pm until about 8:15 pm.

Place:
Westerville Public Library
126 South State Street
Westerville, OH 43081




Link for Event details and more:
World Building for Fantasy and Sci-Fi Writers



I will also be at the Bexley Public Library on June 22nd, participating on a panel discussing, Building a Better World Through Fiction. I and several professors from The Ohio State University will be serving on the panel. Come with questions and input, and more! I'll have a few copies of my novels for anyone interested.

Time:
Thursday, June 22nd
7:00 pm until about 8:00 pm.

Place:
Bexley Public Library
2411 East Main Street
Bexley, OH  43208


Link for Event details and more:
Building a Better World Through Fiction



If you're in the area, hope to see you at one or both events!

Efforts to Improve Knowledge and Skills for Writing

I listen to a lot of audiobooks, trying to make efficient use of time while driving or doing mundane work around the house.

Normally I listen to fictional tales, but sometimes I focus on nonfiction, mainly history related to World War II or the U.S. Civil War.

Recently, I've switched up and have been listening to these two titles:

Obviously to assist with refresher on grammar rules and usage

To provide insight and background information for my fantasy novels

Thunder Wells Audio #1 at Gryphonwood Press

The Audiobook version of Thunder Wells is doing pretty well. It's reached #1 among all the Gryphonwood titles!

It's #1 among Jonathan Waters' list of titles he's narrated as well.

As a Reminder, Where it's Available:

Thunder Wells at Audible

Thunder Wells at iTunes

Thunder Wells at Amazon
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Thunder Wells is Now Available in Audio!

Thunder Wells is now available as an Audiobook!

No one ever said surviving an alien invasion would be easy.

Jack Fairbanks made it through the initial wave of attacks, but now the Mawks have seeded the Earth with dozers and crawlers, tracking beasts that crave human flesh and are bent on hunting the remnants of humankind to extinction. 

Joined by Lucia, a hardened urban survivor, Jack finds himself caught up in a secret plan to turn the course of the invasion. Can a college sophomore and a ragtag force of soldiers survive when the Mawks descend from orbit and begin their final assault?

Consider giving Thunder Wells a listen--narrated by Jonathan Waters!

Where Available:

Thunder Wells at Audible

Thunder Wells at iTunes

Thunder Wells at Amazon
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The Book of Bones (Audiobook) Available on Youtube

If you're a fan of action/adventure stories, along the lines of Indiana Jones, consider listening to The Book of Bones, by David Wood. If you enjoy it, there is a series and spin offs available, in print, ebook and most audiobook.

While available on Audible and iTunes, The Book of Bones is available on Youtube, narrated by Jeffrey Kafer (episodes/parts being released roughly weekly):

Here are the links:
The Book of Bones Part 1
The Book of Bones Part 2
The Book of Bones Part 3
The Book of Bones Part 4
The Book of Bones Part 5
The Book of Bones Part 6

An Interview with Author Kelsey C. Lewandowski

Welcome to Up Around the Corner, Kelsey. Could you tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to become a writer?

Well, I am currently a high school student in the process of finishing up my junior year. I published my debut novel, Abyss, in March of my freshman year (2015) and published my second novel, Elders, this past November.

As a kid, I loved reading and was reading chapter books by first grade. I think it was around that time (so, very early on) that I found a passion for storytelling. I loved hearing about stories and reading them, and actually began to understand the immense amount of thought that went into them. When I was still in elementary school, I decided that someday I would write a book and have it published.

Please share with us, one book that you recently read that you think readers of this blog might enjoy.

I recently revisited Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. I had read a few of his short stories before reading this book and decided to check it out. In this book, some of the fears of the Red Scare (which was occurring during the time Bradbury wrote the novel) are reflected in a ‘backwards’ futuristic society where firemen start fires and literature is not meant to be read. This idea of controlling thought and emotion to the point where freedom is just an illusion plays a huge role in this storyline. The thoughts of the characters who do decide to break the mold are truly engaging as well as thought-provoking.

Tell us a little about your most recent book, Elders.

Elders is a story about two characters living in a futuristic society in which youth can be bought. This defining factor shapes their society by creating extreme social and political divisions between those who can and cannot afford to buy their youth. My writing in this story follows the specific impact of this society’s structure on the characters Cassius and Evangeline. The two are on opposite sides of this society, but still cross paths. By switching viewpoints, I hope that the reader is able to understand their vast differences in background, but ultimately the similarities that tie them together.

Stepping away from writing and books for a moment, what is one of the most interesting and/or exciting places you’ve had the opportunity to visit?

I enjoy traveling very much and am very grateful to have had the opportunity to travel to many different places. By far, my favorite trip was to the Hawaiian island of Maui. The nature there is stunning and the roads that wind up the mountains show incredible views.

A View of the Honokalani Black Sand Beach

What events might you have coming up?

On April 29th, I will be attending a local book signing hosted by the Gathering Volumes bookstore (located by the shops at South Boundary in Perrsyburg) in support of Independent Bookstore Day. Many local authors will be attending this event in order to sign copies of their books, discuss their writing, and share their work with the community.  However, this event is not solely dedicated to authors, so anyone that would like to come show their support can also check out local musicians and artists, as well as various other activities planned throughout the day. (See www.gatheringvolumes.com for more information!)

[There is a scheduled rain date of April 30th.]

As we’re closing in on the end of the interview, Kelsey, is there anything else you’d like to add or share?

I would just like to thank you for taking the time to interview me and include me in your blog!

Thank you, Kelsey, for taking the time to answer the questions for the readers here!

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Where Kelsey's books can be obtained:

Abyss on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Elders on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Where you can find out more about Kelsey and her writing:

Kelsey C. Lewandowski's Blog

Hometown Reads

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