April 13, 2021
Distilled Fiction - a blending of dystopian adventure and adult beverages
On the heels of my two bourbon thriller series, just when I thought I couldn't delve any deeper into the world of distilled spirits, a new concept came to mind. After having toured a number of Kentucky distilleries and sitting around watching shows about backwoods moonshiners, an idea finally stuck. I could take my love for dystopian world collapse stories and blend it with some of that distilling knowledge to make a perfect adventure story cocktail.
Distilled Fiction. That's what I'm calling this new genre I've created. Take the fun of a Smokey and the Bandit and blend it with an oppressive government crackdown to yield a tall order of suspenseful action/adventure. I hope you will give Distiller's Run a try.
Distilled Fiction - a blending of dystopian adventure and adult beverages
On the heels of my two bourbon thriller series, just when I thought I couldn't delve any deeper into the world of distilled spirits, a new concept came to mind. After having toured a number of Kentucky distilleries and sitting around watching shows about backwoods moonshiners, an idea finally stuck. I could take my love for dystopian world collapse stories and blend it with some of that distilling knowledge to make a perfect adventure story cocktail.
Distilled Fiction. That's what I'm calling this new genre I've created. Take the fun of a Smokey and the Bandit and blend it with an oppressive government crackdown to yield a tall order of suspenseful action/adventure. I hope you will give Distiller's Run a try.
May 28, 2020
The end of bourbon books (for now) - A crossover event
Cheers to the end of another bourbon-filled trilogy. Thank you so much for sticking with it to the end, from Night Cap to Double Shot to Sour Mash.
Originally, I wasn’t sure there would be a third book in the series; however, after serious reflection, it seemed like there could be no better way to end it all than with a crossover event. Hold onto your drink! Vince and Grace from The Bourbon Country Series make an appearance in a big way, and hit it off with Lee and Hope.
Will there be more bourbon books? Hard to say. As much as I love the spirit, a break from Kentucky bourbon country is the short-term plan. Perhaps longer, although it’s hard to leave behind fictional distilleries and their sweet-smelling rack houses. In fact, I should probably go visit again and see if I can stir up some inspiration.
Until then, if you haven't read the whole Grace and Vince exploits from The Bourbon Country Series, you might want to give that a try so you can truly appreciate those characters. Released late in 2019, that series blends Psychological Thriller and Romantic Suspense into a killer cocktail.
The end of bourbon books (for now) - A crossover event
Cheers to the end of another bourbon-filled trilogy. Thank you so much for sticking with it to the end, from Night Cap to Double Shot to Sour Mash.
Originally, I wasn’t sure there would be a third book in the series; however, after serious reflection, it seemed like there could be no better way to end it all than with a crossover event. Hold onto your drink! Vince and Grace from The Bourbon Country Series make an appearance in a big way, and hit it off with Lee and Hope.
Will there be more bourbon books? Hard to say. As much as I love the spirit, a break from Kentucky bourbon country is the short-term plan. Perhaps longer, although it’s hard to leave behind fictional distilleries and their sweet-smelling rack houses. In fact, I should probably go visit again and see if I can stir up some inspiration.
Until then, if you haven't read the whole Grace and Vince exploits from The Bourbon Country Series, you might want to give that a try so you can truly appreciate those characters. Released late in 2019, that series blends Psychological Thriller and Romantic Suspense into a killer cocktail.
April 13, 2020
New Releases = more bourbon
My brand new series released last Friday! The first book, Night Cap, is now available as an ebook and paperback. Better yet, by this Friday, the second book, Double Shot, will also be released. It's currently available as a Kindle pre-order.
This series marks yet another detour from my typical young adult action/adventure stories. The new Bourbon Heist Series is definitely more of an adult thriller with some romantic undertones to go along with all the suspense. So while it’s not exactly a follow-up to The Bourbon Country Series, you will find some definite similarities.
I hope you'll give it a try! Like all my other books, Night Cap and Double Shot are free to KindleUnlimited subscribers.
New Releases = more bourbon
My brand new series released last Friday! The first book, Night Cap, is now available as an ebook and paperback. Better yet, by this Friday, the second book, Double Shot, will also be released. It's currently available as a Kindle pre-order.
This series marks yet another detour from my typical young adult action/adventure stories. The new Bourbon Heist Series is definitely more of an adult thriller with some romantic undertones to go along with all the suspense. So while it’s not exactly a follow-up to The Bourbon Country Series, you will find some definite similarities.
I hope you'll give it a try! Like all my other books, Night Cap and Double Shot are free to KindleUnlimited subscribers.
October 4, 2019
New Series beginning with Whiskey Thief
To close out 2019, the plan is to release three new books comprising The Bourbon Country Series. First one out of the gate, releasing today, is Whiskey Thief.
This series was a true labor of love for me. It combines some of my favorite things: fun, relatable characters and abandoned & working distilleries in central Kentucky. During the characters' distillery tours, they run across mysterious, suspenseful happenings that really ratchet up the tension. Throw in a little romance, and it's makes for what I would call a "Romantic Suspenseful Psychological Thriller." So it's a bit of a crossover/conglomerate genre.
This series is far more adult than any of my previous teen adventure books. Just so be aware that you're getting into something a whole lot more foul-mouthed, with a little extra heat too.
I sure hope you'll give it a try. Happy Reading!
New Series beginning with Whiskey Thief
To close out 2019, the plan is to release three new books comprising The Bourbon Country Series. First one out of the gate, releasing today, is Whiskey Thief.
This series was a true labor of love for me. It combines some of my favorite things: fun, relatable characters and abandoned & working distilleries in central Kentucky. During the characters' distillery tours, they run across mysterious, suspenseful happenings that really ratchet up the tension. Throw in a little romance, and it's makes for what I would call a "Romantic Suspenseful Psychological Thriller." So it's a bit of a crossover/conglomerate genre.
This series is far more adult than any of my previous teen adventure books. Just so be aware that you're getting into something a whole lot more foul-mouthed, with a little extra heat too.
I sure hope you'll give it a try. Happy Reading!
September 16, 2019
Jailbreak - Sequel to The Bushwhackers Series
Leaving my characters out in the woods after Prepper Mountain and Shadow Warriors seemed like no way to end The Bushwhackers Series. So a final installment is complete and now available! I hope you'll follow the series to the end, and have enjoyed reading these stories as much as I have loved writing them.
I'm honored by all the interest this series has received over the last few months. Without a doubt, this one has been my most successful to date. But there is more to come. A new series bound to grab your attention, especially all you whiskey aficionados. As we sadly have to bid Bushwhackers goodbye, we say hello to Bourbon Country -- my first foray in adult suspense/thrillers. So be ready this fall for a three book series set in abandoned and working bourbon distilleries in Kentucky. While a bit of a departure from my usual family-friendly teen action/adventure, there's still plenty of edge-of-your-seat survivalist action. Just a bit more grown up....
As always, I want to express my deepest thanks for all of your support!
#ya #WildernessSurvival #Action #Adventure #Thriller #Suspense #Dystopian #SmokyMountains #kindle #KU #paperback #newrelease
Jailbreak - Sequel to The Bushwhackers Series
Leaving my characters out in the woods after Prepper Mountain and Shadow Warriors seemed like no way to end The Bushwhackers Series. So a final installment is complete and now available! I hope you'll follow the series to the end, and have enjoyed reading these stories as much as I have loved writing them.
I'm honored by all the interest this series has received over the last few months. Without a doubt, this one has been my most successful to date. But there is more to come. A new series bound to grab your attention, especially all you whiskey aficionados. As we sadly have to bid Bushwhackers goodbye, we say hello to Bourbon Country -- my first foray in adult suspense/thrillers. So be ready this fall for a three book series set in abandoned and working bourbon distilleries in Kentucky. While a bit of a departure from my usual family-friendly teen action/adventure, there's still plenty of edge-of-your-seat survivalist action. Just a bit more grown up....
As always, I want to express my deepest thanks for all of your support!
#ya #WildernessSurvival #Action #Adventure #Thriller #Suspense #Dystopian #SmokyMountains #kindle #KU #paperback #newrelease
May 28, 2019
Shadow Warriors - Sequel to Prepper Mountain
I'm happy to report that the promise was kept, and my eleventh book was released ahead of schedule. I hope you'll check out Shadow Warriors, the second book in The Bushwhackers Series.
I'm indebted to everyone who has given the series (and all my other unrelated books) a try in recent weeks. This release has by far been my most successful to date. It's enough to make me want to keep writing as quickly as I can.
A huge Thank You to everyone for all of your support!
To those of you who are Kindle Unlimited subscribers, you can read all 11 of my books on there for FREE!
#ya #WildernessSurvival #Action #Adventure #Thriller #Suspense #Dystopian #SmokyMountains #kindle #KU #paperback #newrelease
Shadow Warriors - Sequel to Prepper Mountain
I'm happy to report that the promise was kept, and my eleventh book was released ahead of schedule. I hope you'll check out Shadow Warriors, the second book in The Bushwhackers Series.
I'm indebted to everyone who has given the series (and all my other unrelated books) a try in recent weeks. This release has by far been my most successful to date. It's enough to make me want to keep writing as quickly as I can.
A huge Thank You to everyone for all of your support!
To those of you who are Kindle Unlimited subscribers, you can read all 11 of my books on there for FREE!
#ya #WildernessSurvival #Action #Adventure #Thriller #Suspense #Dystopian #SmokyMountains #kindle #KU #paperback #newrelease
May 6, 2019
New Release, as promised
My goal for 2019 is keeping writing promises. So far, so good. My tenth published book (10!!), Prepper Mountain, was recently released as the first of a two-book series set in the Smoky Mountains. I'm extremely happy to say it has been very well received. No doubt my best release in the last few years.
When Prepper Mountain came out in April, I promised a sequel by this summer. I'm actually on track to beat that timeframe. Be on the lookout for Book 2, Shadow Warriors. Coming this week!!!
I can’t wait for you guys to give this series a try. It has a storyline and characters that I absolutely love. This one has to be my favorite series so far, though Northwoods and Savage Horde are deeply special to me as well.
Now it's time to get back to writing. I have a great new concept to flesh out and thousands of words to type.
Thank you all for your support!
#ya #WildernessSurvival #Action #Adventure #thriller #Suspense #Dystopian #SmokyMountains #amwriting #newrelease
New Release, as promised
My goal for 2019 is keeping writing promises. So far, so good. My tenth published book (10!!), Prepper Mountain, was recently released as the first of a two-book series set in the Smoky Mountains. I'm extremely happy to say it has been very well received. No doubt my best release in the last few years.
When Prepper Mountain came out in April, I promised a sequel by this summer. I'm actually on track to beat that timeframe. Be on the lookout for Book 2, Shadow Warriors. Coming this week!!!
I can’t wait for you guys to give this series a try. It has a storyline and characters that I absolutely love. This one has to be my favorite series so far, though Northwoods and Savage Horde are deeply special to me as well.
Now it's time to get back to writing. I have a great new concept to flesh out and thousands of words to type.
Thank you all for your support!
#ya #WildernessSurvival #Action #Adventure #thriller #Suspense #Dystopian #SmokyMountains #amwriting #newrelease
April 2, 2019
Onward and Upward
Last year started out with a solid promise of new material from me in 2018, and a more than vague hope of hitting double digits in published works. So I released Creeper Falls fairly early in the year, then fell into a bit of a rut and took time off to do life. The usual, of course: work, family, summer, sports, back to school…. Anything but writing. So we’re already well into 2019, and I’m still sitting at 9 published books. Number 10 needs to be something special, but what? I haven’t written much new in a while, so I turned to my back catalog of previously finished gems. To two series I’ve been holding close to me like precious goods.
I’ve had an absolute outpouring of interest (relatively speaking) from literary agents in my modern Treasure Island remake of sorts. So much so, I figure I had better hang onto that series a little while longer and continue to perfect it. That leaves me with the Prepper Mountain series. I’ve also had several agents and publishers show interest in this one as well, but I can’t wait any longer to bring it to life. I can’t wait for you guys to read this one. Prepper Mountain has a storyline and characters that I absolutely adore. It’s honestly my favorite series I’ve written, though Northwoods and Savage Horde are deeply special to me as well.
It’s not April Fools today. Take this as my announcement of a new two-book series coming soon! First off with Prepper Mountain, then Shadow Warriors later this summer. A big release gives me the joy and spark I need to get back to writing, and I hope gives you one of the best books you’ve ever read. Onward and upward; a trip up Prepper Mountain.
Onward and Upward
Last year started out with a solid promise of new material from me in 2018, and a more than vague hope of hitting double digits in published works. So I released Creeper Falls fairly early in the year, then fell into a bit of a rut and took time off to do life. The usual, of course: work, family, summer, sports, back to school…. Anything but writing. So we’re already well into 2019, and I’m still sitting at 9 published books. Number 10 needs to be something special, but what? I haven’t written much new in a while, so I turned to my back catalog of previously finished gems. To two series I’ve been holding close to me like precious goods.
I’ve had an absolute outpouring of interest (relatively speaking) from literary agents in my modern Treasure Island remake of sorts. So much so, I figure I had better hang onto that series a little while longer and continue to perfect it. That leaves me with the Prepper Mountain series. I’ve also had several agents and publishers show interest in this one as well, but I can’t wait any longer to bring it to life. I can’t wait for you guys to read this one. Prepper Mountain has a storyline and characters that I absolutely adore. It’s honestly my favorite series I’ve written, though Northwoods and Savage Horde are deeply special to me as well.
It’s not April Fools today. Take this as my announcement of a new two-book series coming soon! First off with Prepper Mountain, then Shadow Warriors later this summer. A big release gives me the joy and spark I need to get back to writing, and I hope gives you one of the best books you’ve ever read. Onward and upward; a trip up Prepper Mountain.
January 28, 2018
Hitting Double Digits
After a flurry of re-releases and a new book in The Savage Horde Series back in 2017, my productivity came to a screeching halt. The kids' school year kept me on the go, especially my son's senior year ending with a litany of awards banquets and the like. Then came graduation, followed by a pair of amazingly long summer vacations, and then moving the boy off to college. Spare time was hard to find, and motivation to write even more lacking. It was looking bleak on the writing front...so I finally forced myself to sit down in November and look over my back catalog of completed but unreleased works. After several weeks of editing, I bring to you Creeper Falls.
It's yet another novel set around a family vacation--this time a quarter mile below the surface in an eerie cave. There are some new elements in this novel, including my first attempt at split point of view. You'll follow along with a pair of teens, Danny and Lacey, as they endure a series of terrifying challenges at the world's worst summer camp.
I'm happy to report that the editing lit a new fire in me. While I can't guarantee I'll keep the newfound motivation, I'm in a much better place when it comes to feeling the urge to write. And here's some added motivation...Creeper Falls is my ninth published book. Nine! Even after the last several years of dedicated writing, I still hardly believe that.
I feel confident Creeper Falls won't be my last this year. I will hit double digits--possibly 11 or 12. I am certain of that much.
Hitting Double Digits
After a flurry of re-releases and a new book in The Savage Horde Series back in 2017, my productivity came to a screeching halt. The kids' school year kept me on the go, especially my son's senior year ending with a litany of awards banquets and the like. Then came graduation, followed by a pair of amazingly long summer vacations, and then moving the boy off to college. Spare time was hard to find, and motivation to write even more lacking. It was looking bleak on the writing front...so I finally forced myself to sit down in November and look over my back catalog of completed but unreleased works. After several weeks of editing, I bring to you Creeper Falls.
It's yet another novel set around a family vacation--this time a quarter mile below the surface in an eerie cave. There are some new elements in this novel, including my first attempt at split point of view. You'll follow along with a pair of teens, Danny and Lacey, as they endure a series of terrifying challenges at the world's worst summer camp.
I'm happy to report that the editing lit a new fire in me. While I can't guarantee I'll keep the newfound motivation, I'm in a much better place when it comes to feeling the urge to write. And here's some added motivation...Creeper Falls is my ninth published book. Nine! Even after the last several years of dedicated writing, I still hardly believe that.
I feel confident Creeper Falls won't be my last this year. I will hit double digits--possibly 11 or 12. I am certain of that much.
January 23, 2017
New Year, New Releases!
Sadly, the end of 2016 brought on the closure of Rocking Horse Publishing. On January 1st, two of my favorite action/adventure books, Murder Cover and Game Changer, lost a loyal publisher with the closure of the business.
Fortunately, I knew well ahead of time what was coming. After taking a little while to evaluate my plans, I've moved forward with newly edited and updated self-published editions of both books. While retaining all of their original charm, they have been recently re-released as second editions. Look for them on Amazon at a new, lower price! Better yet, they remain free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
It wouldn’t be a new year without other new books on the horizon. Next closest to reaching the market is Book 3 of The Savage Horde Series. Be on the lookout for Complex Three, which will ready for purchase by early February 2017.
New Year, New Releases!
Sadly, the end of 2016 brought on the closure of Rocking Horse Publishing. On January 1st, two of my favorite action/adventure books, Murder Cover and Game Changer, lost a loyal publisher with the closure of the business.
Fortunately, I knew well ahead of time what was coming. After taking a little while to evaluate my plans, I've moved forward with newly edited and updated self-published editions of both books. While retaining all of their original charm, they have been recently re-released as second editions. Look for them on Amazon at a new, lower price! Better yet, they remain free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
It wouldn’t be a new year without other new books on the horizon. Next closest to reaching the market is Book 3 of The Savage Horde Series. Be on the lookout for Complex Three, which will ready for purchase by early February 2017.
May 27, 2016
A New Phase
New things are happening, and I’m as excited as I’ve been about publishing for quite a while. After several months of trying to decide what to do with my back catalog of unpublished novels, I’ve made a giant leap. After turning out five books through independent small presses, I’ve plunged headfirst into the world of self-publishing!
I’m thrilled to let everyone know that I’ve just released the first book of a brand new series. Check out my latest young adult, action/adventure, thriller…Savage Hills. While The Savage Horde Series is still my kind of classic outdoorsy adventure fiction, I’ve gone a slightly different direction. You guys are about to read something that’s a bit more Science Fiction than anything I’ve done before. It’s not hugely SciFi, but futuristic enough to definitely let you know that it’s something a little different—not to mention the introduction of some pretty cool, spooky antagonists. Add in some ‘trapped behind enemy lines’ action and a hint at a dystopian society, and you’ll find all the stuff I love in a story.
As soon as the second book in the series, Cold Valley, has been edited and formatted, it will be joining Savage Hills. I won’t make you wait too long for the sequel. I promise. Be on the lookout for Cold Valley sometime this summer, possibly by the end of June. Until then, hang on for dear life as you enjoy your epic run through the Savage Hills.
A New Phase
New things are happening, and I’m as excited as I’ve been about publishing for quite a while. After several months of trying to decide what to do with my back catalog of unpublished novels, I’ve made a giant leap. After turning out five books through independent small presses, I’ve plunged headfirst into the world of self-publishing!
I’m thrilled to let everyone know that I’ve just released the first book of a brand new series. Check out my latest young adult, action/adventure, thriller…Savage Hills. While The Savage Horde Series is still my kind of classic outdoorsy adventure fiction, I’ve gone a slightly different direction. You guys are about to read something that’s a bit more Science Fiction than anything I’ve done before. It’s not hugely SciFi, but futuristic enough to definitely let you know that it’s something a little different—not to mention the introduction of some pretty cool, spooky antagonists. Add in some ‘trapped behind enemy lines’ action and a hint at a dystopian society, and you’ll find all the stuff I love in a story.
As soon as the second book in the series, Cold Valley, has been edited and formatted, it will be joining Savage Hills. I won’t make you wait too long for the sequel. I promise. Be on the lookout for Cold Valley sometime this summer, possibly by the end of June. Until then, hang on for dear life as you enjoy your epic run through the Savage Hills.
March 17, 2016
Lesson Learned
I'll admit it. I make mistakes sometimes. My latest was a truly, epically dumb one that wasted A LOT of time. But at least I learned a valuable lesson.
I have a number of difference series in the works, and typically skip between them. I'll draft a book or edit a book, then put it aside and work on something else. It helps keep things fresh, but apparently not fresh enough.
A short while back, having finished with another series, I started working on a sequel to my latest dystopian/adventure/thriller book. Somehow, and rather foolishly, I paid no attention to the fact that the first book was written in first person, past tense. So I wrote the ENTIRE first draft of the second book in third person. Thankfully past tense, but still a huge 75,000 word mistake.
Long story short (pun intended), it's taken days(seriously!) to fix all the pronouns and make it flow right. Zach = I, him = me, his = my, their = our... and so on a thousand times over. No simple 'Find and Replace' could be done.
The worst part? It was totally preventable. I like to write different series in different POV, and often different tenses. But all I had to do was take a quick look back at the first book. Maybe the problem could be that I know my characters a little too well, and didn't think I needed to look back for something so simple as POV.
But the edits are all finished...finally. Lesson learned--big time. And just in time to get my NCAA Tournament bracket filled out. Not a moment too soon. Sounds like it's time to take a little writing break and watch some basketball games.
Lesson Learned
I'll admit it. I make mistakes sometimes. My latest was a truly, epically dumb one that wasted A LOT of time. But at least I learned a valuable lesson.
I have a number of difference series in the works, and typically skip between them. I'll draft a book or edit a book, then put it aside and work on something else. It helps keep things fresh, but apparently not fresh enough.
A short while back, having finished with another series, I started working on a sequel to my latest dystopian/adventure/thriller book. Somehow, and rather foolishly, I paid no attention to the fact that the first book was written in first person, past tense. So I wrote the ENTIRE first draft of the second book in third person. Thankfully past tense, but still a huge 75,000 word mistake.
Long story short (pun intended), it's taken days(seriously!) to fix all the pronouns and make it flow right. Zach = I, him = me, his = my, their = our... and so on a thousand times over. No simple 'Find and Replace' could be done.
The worst part? It was totally preventable. I like to write different series in different POV, and often different tenses. But all I had to do was take a quick look back at the first book. Maybe the problem could be that I know my characters a little too well, and didn't think I needed to look back for something so simple as POV.
But the edits are all finished...finally. Lesson learned--big time. And just in time to get my NCAA Tournament bracket filled out. Not a moment too soon. Sounds like it's time to take a little writing break and watch some basketball games.
February 5, 2016
Happy New Year...better late than never
Happy New Year! Yes, I realize it’s already February, but I’m thinking I didn’t mention that when the calendar changed to 2016. Shortly before Christmas, I pretty much checked out of social media. The holidays came and went with joy and a grand adventure, and the afterglow carried me all through January in my own little bubble. So my break didn’t have any deep underlying purpose. I didn’t swear off Facebook to focus on writing. It just happened.
Truth be told, I’ve actually done a fair amount of writing and editing in recent weeks. I’ve worked quite a bit on a brand new series that’s more SciFi than anything I’ve done before. I’ve also gone through my back catalog of unpublished novels and edited one particular gem to a fine polish. Mostly, though, I wanted to take a short break (that sort of became a longer break) to think about my writing career.
I’m not one to make New Year’s resolutions, but I suppose I’ve finally settled on a path. After a few years of publishing experience in the indie world, I’ve decided that 2016 will be the year of the deal. That’s it. I’m putting it out there on the record. I’ve been blessed with two indie publisher who were more than happy to publish my work. Five books, in the span of little more than 2 years. That was no small accomplishment, but now it’s time to dream even bigger, because that’s what a person should do. Make big plan; live large; focus on the future. Keep writing too, and find a way to break out from the pack.
The publishing thing is all subject to change, of course. I say that a lot in my line of work, but it’s true. I have another standalone adventure book that’s ready to go to print. I could maybe turn that one out on a whim; maybe even try the self-publishing thing with it. Try to convince me, and maybe I’ll surprise you with a new release. But my sights are focused like a laser on a slightly more distant future. I think I have a couple of great prospective series in the works. Someone’s going to want to represent them. Someone will want to publish them. I believe that. I have to.
So I’ll repeat my little affirmation when the months drag by and I start to doubt. Hopefully you’re out there living your dreams. I’m going to try harder to make mine happen. Happy New Year…better late than never.
Happy New Year...better late than never
Happy New Year! Yes, I realize it’s already February, but I’m thinking I didn’t mention that when the calendar changed to 2016. Shortly before Christmas, I pretty much checked out of social media. The holidays came and went with joy and a grand adventure, and the afterglow carried me all through January in my own little bubble. So my break didn’t have any deep underlying purpose. I didn’t swear off Facebook to focus on writing. It just happened.
Truth be told, I’ve actually done a fair amount of writing and editing in recent weeks. I’ve worked quite a bit on a brand new series that’s more SciFi than anything I’ve done before. I’ve also gone through my back catalog of unpublished novels and edited one particular gem to a fine polish. Mostly, though, I wanted to take a short break (that sort of became a longer break) to think about my writing career.
I’m not one to make New Year’s resolutions, but I suppose I’ve finally settled on a path. After a few years of publishing experience in the indie world, I’ve decided that 2016 will be the year of the deal. That’s it. I’m putting it out there on the record. I’ve been blessed with two indie publisher who were more than happy to publish my work. Five books, in the span of little more than 2 years. That was no small accomplishment, but now it’s time to dream even bigger, because that’s what a person should do. Make big plan; live large; focus on the future. Keep writing too, and find a way to break out from the pack.
The publishing thing is all subject to change, of course. I say that a lot in my line of work, but it’s true. I have another standalone adventure book that’s ready to go to print. I could maybe turn that one out on a whim; maybe even try the self-publishing thing with it. Try to convince me, and maybe I’ll surprise you with a new release. But my sights are focused like a laser on a slightly more distant future. I think I have a couple of great prospective series in the works. Someone’s going to want to represent them. Someone will want to publish them. I believe that. I have to.
So I’ll repeat my little affirmation when the months drag by and I start to doubt. Hopefully you’re out there living your dreams. I’m going to try harder to make mine happen. Happy New Year…better late than never.
September 16, 2015
Thee books, one year
In what may end up being the busiest publishing year of my career, I'm thrilled to announce the release of my third book this year. Seriously! Murder Cove is my second standalone adventure novel, joining Game Changer and the end of my trilogy.
I don't know that this good fortune will be soon repeated. I have several more books in good shape with eyes on publishing one or two next year, but this year it seemed like the stars aligned. Gratefully, Rocking Horse Publishing was willing to bring out two of my standalone novels in the same year, and Krill Press wrapped up the trilogy with Return to Northwoods.
In addition to all the written words, I've ventured into Audiobook versions with the release of Fugitives from Northwoods and the upcoming release of Game Changer. In other words, it's been a very exciting year.
I sure hope you'll take a look at Murder Cove when it hits the market around September 16th. While not a huge departure from my usual outdoorsy wilderness survival adventures, this one has a bit of an indoors Die Hard feel too--and a nice dose of humor.
The Murder Cove ebook will be on Amazon exclusively (and free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers). Paperback follows shortly thereafter on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
If things get a slower next year, don't be surprised. I'll still be here churning out stories and, as always, very thankful for your support.
Thee books, one year
In what may end up being the busiest publishing year of my career, I'm thrilled to announce the release of my third book this year. Seriously! Murder Cove is my second standalone adventure novel, joining Game Changer and the end of my trilogy.
I don't know that this good fortune will be soon repeated. I have several more books in good shape with eyes on publishing one or two next year, but this year it seemed like the stars aligned. Gratefully, Rocking Horse Publishing was willing to bring out two of my standalone novels in the same year, and Krill Press wrapped up the trilogy with Return to Northwoods.
In addition to all the written words, I've ventured into Audiobook versions with the release of Fugitives from Northwoods and the upcoming release of Game Changer. In other words, it's been a very exciting year.
I sure hope you'll take a look at Murder Cove when it hits the market around September 16th. While not a huge departure from my usual outdoorsy wilderness survival adventures, this one has a bit of an indoors Die Hard feel too--and a nice dose of humor.
The Murder Cove ebook will be on Amazon exclusively (and free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers). Paperback follows shortly thereafter on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
If things get a slower next year, don't be surprised. I'll still be here churning out stories and, as always, very thankful for your support.
May 28, 2015
A trilogy comes to an end
Late in 2011, I started planning and eventually writing my first published book, Fugitives from Northwoods. It was a long process, which was interrupted by a summer 2012 trip to the Boundary Waters of northern Minnesota. That canoe trip with my son and other Boy Scouts and dads from his troop helped me really use the scenery to put the finishing touches on the book.
By some miracle, Krill Press bought the rights and brought Fugitives to the market by early 2013. Last year saw the release of book two, Rebellion in Northwoods.
After this year's release of a totally unrelated book, Game Changer, work began in earnest on putting the finishing touches on my trilogy. I'm thrilled to announce that Return to Northwoods is now available in ebook and will be in paperback shortly.
It's been a long process in some ways, and one filled with plenty of learning about the business of writing, as well as about writing itself. I hope you'll take a moment to check out the trilogy. Though I hesitate to talk about pride, I'm proud to say that I believe Return to Northwoods is my finest published work to date.
It's a strange feeling bringing a trilogy to an end. In some ways there's a sense of accomplishment that makes me wistful, and supremely thankful for all the help and kind words I've received over the last few years. My son is now an Eagle Scout, and our canoe trip is but a fond memory. It makes me sort of similarly sad to leave my beloved characters behind, and I hope they'll stay with you in some small way.
As always, thank you for your support.
A trilogy comes to an end
Late in 2011, I started planning and eventually writing my first published book, Fugitives from Northwoods. It was a long process, which was interrupted by a summer 2012 trip to the Boundary Waters of northern Minnesota. That canoe trip with my son and other Boy Scouts and dads from his troop helped me really use the scenery to put the finishing touches on the book.
By some miracle, Krill Press bought the rights and brought Fugitives to the market by early 2013. Last year saw the release of book two, Rebellion in Northwoods.
After this year's release of a totally unrelated book, Game Changer, work began in earnest on putting the finishing touches on my trilogy. I'm thrilled to announce that Return to Northwoods is now available in ebook and will be in paperback shortly.
It's been a long process in some ways, and one filled with plenty of learning about the business of writing, as well as about writing itself. I hope you'll take a moment to check out the trilogy. Though I hesitate to talk about pride, I'm proud to say that I believe Return to Northwoods is my finest published work to date.
It's a strange feeling bringing a trilogy to an end. In some ways there's a sense of accomplishment that makes me wistful, and supremely thankful for all the help and kind words I've received over the last few years. My son is now an Eagle Scout, and our canoe trip is but a fond memory. It makes me sort of similarly sad to leave my beloved characters behind, and I hope they'll stay with you in some small way.
As always, thank you for your support.
March 2, 2015
Winter blah vs. summertime stories
March opens with yet more snow, and it got me thinking about all the books I've written. In the Northwoods Trilogy, my characters braved a cold autumn run for freedom north of the border, but I jump ahead about 6 months in the next book such that winter is almost over. Everything else I've written is typically hot, humid summertime tales. I'm wondering if I have thing against winter books, and thinking maybe I should work on a snowbound stories one of these days.
Until then, I'm perfectly happy to think about my newest release. Game Changer is the story of a float trip gone wrong. Perhaps a little like Deliverance...for teens.
That's what Missouri summers are all about. Not Deliverance...but hot, humid days best spent on an inner tube or canoe on some cool Ozark mountain stream. I'm wishing I was there right now, and I'm hoping you'll give the book a chance.
It's the perfect time to read a summer adventure book. Have a look, and thanks a million for your support.
Winter blah vs. summertime stories
March opens with yet more snow, and it got me thinking about all the books I've written. In the Northwoods Trilogy, my characters braved a cold autumn run for freedom north of the border, but I jump ahead about 6 months in the next book such that winter is almost over. Everything else I've written is typically hot, humid summertime tales. I'm wondering if I have thing against winter books, and thinking maybe I should work on a snowbound stories one of these days.
Until then, I'm perfectly happy to think about my newest release. Game Changer is the story of a float trip gone wrong. Perhaps a little like Deliverance...for teens.
That's what Missouri summers are all about. Not Deliverance...but hot, humid days best spent on an inner tube or canoe on some cool Ozark mountain stream. I'm wishing I was there right now, and I'm hoping you'll give the book a chance.
It's the perfect time to read a summer adventure book. Have a look, and thanks a million for your support.
February 17, 2015
A Week of New Releases
February has been back and forth. One weekend with spring-like temperatures, and the next with five inches of snow. But that's typical Missouri.
Similarly, in my little world, the quiet of January has been replaced by a flurry of publishing activity in February.
This month is the two-year anniversary of the publication of my very first novel, Fugitives from Northwoods. It is still in print, doing well, and will continue to be Krill Press for at least a couple more years. The third book of the trilogy will be coming out in a few months. But there's more exciting news than that...
Fugitives is now available as an audiobook through Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. The narration is magnificent. It's even more gripping and emotional than I anticipated. Major credit to voice pro Eddie Frierson for a phenomenal read.
As if that wasn't enough, a brand new book just released yesterday. Game Changer is now available in eBook--and soon to be in paperback. It's the story of a float trip gone wrong. Perhaps a little like Deliverance...for teens.
I hope you'll take a second to check them both out. Stay warm and read a summertime adventure book, or get outside for a drive and listen to the audiobook. As always, thank you for your support.
A Week of New Releases
February has been back and forth. One weekend with spring-like temperatures, and the next with five inches of snow. But that's typical Missouri.
Similarly, in my little world, the quiet of January has been replaced by a flurry of publishing activity in February.
This month is the two-year anniversary of the publication of my very first novel, Fugitives from Northwoods. It is still in print, doing well, and will continue to be Krill Press for at least a couple more years. The third book of the trilogy will be coming out in a few months. But there's more exciting news than that...
Fugitives is now available as an audiobook through Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. The narration is magnificent. It's even more gripping and emotional than I anticipated. Major credit to voice pro Eddie Frierson for a phenomenal read.
As if that wasn't enough, a brand new book just released yesterday. Game Changer is now available in eBook--and soon to be in paperback. It's the story of a float trip gone wrong. Perhaps a little like Deliverance...for teens.
I hope you'll take a second to check them both out. Stay warm and read a summertime adventure book, or get outside for a drive and listen to the audiobook. As always, thank you for your support.