Category: Latest News

FORGED IN BLOOD is now available for early access on Patreon!

Join Soren as he trains under his father’s killer and discovers the true price of power. Watch his friendship with Alaric crumble as ambition corrupts everything it touches…

Soren once sought justice for his father’s murder…

…now he’s becoming everything he once despised.

How far would you go for power?

For Soren, the answer becomes darker with every lesson from his new mentor—the very assassin who killed his father.

As he delves deeper into the Guild’s deadly arts, the line between justice and vengeance blurs, and his closest friendship hangs by a thread…

FORGED IN BLOOD is now available for early access on Patreon! Get it months before the retail release:

🖤 First two chapters available instantly.

📖 Two new chapters weekly.

💭 Chat with me about Soren’s descent into darkness as the story unfolds.

Perfect for readers who love morally grey characters and the seductive pull of darkness.

Come witness the price of power…

Start reading today!

New Sci-Fi Story Fight! Free on Patreon

Check out Fight!, now available for free members on my Patreon: patreon.com/joncronshawauthor.

On a generation ship hurtling toward Alpha Centauri, humanity’s last hope for survival faces a desperate crisis.

With food supplies dwindling, each sector must send a champion to a fighting tournament where the prize is nothing less than survival.

In Sector 7, the augmented fighter Seth volunteers—but his motives are far from noble, and his obsession with perfection could spell disaster for everyone relying on him.

This dark sci-fi story dives into themes of ego, betrayal, and the twisted path between strength and salvation.

If you’re ready for an intense tale of humanity’s struggle for survival, join the free tier on my Patreon and immerse yourself in Fight!

Read now.

📖 Edits, Prequels, and Zombie Tales | Author Diary – November 1, 2024 🎅🧟

Dive into this week’s Author Diary as I tackle a variety of writing projects, from editing a sequel to revisiting a prequel, and even venturing into festive zombie territory!

📝 Editing “Forged in Blood”:

I’m deep into the editing process for “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series. It’s always a detailed task to refine the narrative, enhance character development, and ensure the plot twists keep readers on the edge of their seats. This stage is crucial for bringing the polished version of the story to life.

📚 Revisiting “Scoundrels”:

After a year, I’ve returned to “Scoundrels,” a prequel to the Dawn of Assassins series. Diving back into this story is like reconnecting with an old friend and rediscovering their secrets. It’s fascinating to explore the backstory that sets the stage for the events and dynamics in the main series.

🎅 Writing “Santa Versus Zombies”:

In a lighter, more whimsical vein, I penned a short story titled “Santa Versus Zombies.” This festive, fun piece provided a great creative outlet, blending the cheer of the holiday season with the thrill of a zombie apocalypse. It was a delightful project that offered a humorous break from my more intense writing.

🚶‍♂️ Completing “Niamh’s Journey”:

 I also wrapped up “Niamh’s Journey,” a side story in the Punks Versus Zombies series. Finishing this narrative provided closure for a thread that added depth and perspective to the main storyline.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on handling multiple projects, or your experiences with returning to a story after a long break.

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights and updates from my journey through worlds both deadly and whimsical!

Tech Bros Versus Zombies: A Story of Disruption Gone Wrong

What happens when a neural interface update goes wrong? Tech Bros Versus Zombies explores a satirical world where tech ambition meets zombie chaos, as a developer battles against his company’s untested software and the zombie apocalypse it unleashes.

Have you ever wondered what might happen if Silicon Valley accidentally triggered a zombie apocalypse?

Not the shambling, brain-eating kind – but the perfectly synchronised, engagement-metrics-obsessed, neural-interface-gone-wrong sort.

Well, wonder no more.

I’m excited to introduce my latest story, Tech Bros Versus Zombies, now available for free on my Patreon (patreon.com/joncronshawauthor).

What’s It About?

Meet Evan, a developer just trying to do his job properly at a tech startup, where “proper testing” is practically a swear word, and “disrupting neural paradigms” is the flavour of the week.

When Evan’s warnings about untested neural interface code are ignored (because who has time for safety when you’re revolutionising consciousness?), he finds himself in a race against time to prevent his company’s “revolutionary” product from turning users into perfectly synchronised corporate zombies.

Want to Read It?

Head over to my Patreon (patreon.com/joncronshawauthor) where you can read Tech Bros Versus Zombies for free.

No neural interface required.

read here.

Master the Dark Arts: GUILD OF ASSASSINS Halloween Special!

tep into the dark world of Guild of Assassins this Halloween for only 99p/99c! Follow Soren’s journey from sculptor to killer in this dark fantasy thriller, free on Kindle Unlimited.

🗡️ This Halloween, step into the shadows for less than the price of a dagger…

GUILD OF ASSASSINS is now just 99p/99c on Kindle, or free to read on Kindle Unlimited!

Enter a world where sculptors become killers, where friendship survives in darkness, and where survival demands becoming what you once feared.

Follow Soren’s transformation from artist to assassin as he infiltrates a deadly guild seeking justice for his murdered father.

Perfect for fans of:

– The Night Angel Trilogy

– Nevernight

– Six of Crows

– Red Rising

What readers are saying:

“Dark, gripping, and psychologically complex…”

“A masterclass in character development…”

“Couldn’t put it down – the friendship between Soren and Alaric had me hooked!”

Inside you’ll find:

– Brutal training sequences

– Complex characters walking morally grey paths

– Deep friendships tested by darkness

– A deadly contest that will leave you breathless

– Professional killers with their own codes and traditions

🗡️ 99p/99c on Kindle

📚 Free on Kindle Unlimited

🎃 Limited time Halloween offer!

Don’t miss this chance to join the guild for less than a pound/dollar.

 But hurry – like an assassin in the night, this deal won’t stick around forever…

Get your copy.

Continue the Dark Path: FORGED IN BLOOD Early Access Announcement!

Be the first to journey deeper into the guild’s world with Forged in Blood, the anticipated sequel to Guild of Assassins, available for early access on Patreon from October 29.

🗡️ The guild’s shadows deepen…

I’m thrilled to announce that FORGED IN BLOOD, the sequel to GUILD OF ASSASSINS, will be available for early access through Patreon starting October 29th!

What this means:

– Two chapters released every week

– Months ahead of retail release

– Exclusive access to the story as it unfolds

– Direct interaction with me about the developing narrative

– Be among the first to discover what awaits Soren and Alaric

For those who can’t wait to return to the dark world of professional killers, complex loyalties, and moral compromise, this is your chance to step back into the shadows ahead of the crowd.

What to expect in FORGED IN BLOOD:

– Deeper exploration of the guild’s dark traditions

– New challenges that will test surviving relationships

– Higher stakes and harder choices

– The consequences of survival at any cost

How it works:

– Join my Patreon at patreon.com/joncronshawauthor

– Get immediate access to Chapter 1 on October 29

– New chapters every Tuesday and Thursday

– Engage with other readers in exclusive discussion threads

– Share your theories and reactions as the story unfolds

For Patreon supporters, this isn’t just early access – it’s a chance to experience the story in a more intimate way.

Discuss chapters as they release, share theories with other readers, and get insights into the writing process that you won’t find anywhere else.

Why Patreon?

This platform allows me to:

– Share the story with my most dedicated readers first

– Create a community around the developing narrative

– Provide exclusive content and insights

– Interact directly with readers as the story unfolds

Haven’t read GUILD OF ASSASSINS yet?

Now’s the perfect time to start! Book 1 is available on Kindle and Kindle Unlimited for just 99p/99c.

Catch up before FORGED IN BLOOD begins its dark journey.

🗡️ Mark your calendars: October 29

📚 Two chapters per week

💀 Exclusive early access

🤝 Join the community

The guild awaits…

Join now.

📘 Draft Completion & Seasonal Reflections | Author Diary – October 25, 2024 🍂📚

In this week’s Author Diary, I celebrate a significant milestone in my writing journey and share my plans for the coming weeks as the seasons change.

📖 Completing “Forged in Blood”:

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve completed the draft of “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series. Finishing this draft marks a major achievement in the development of the series, and I’m looking forward to the next stages of editing and refining.

📚 Current Reading:

Continuing my literary exploration, I’m currently delving into “Illuminatus Part II” by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson. This series, known for its complex narrative and intriguing themes, provides a thought-provoking read that perfectly complements the darker, introspective months.

🕰️ Adjusting to Seasonal Changes:

With the clocks changing and the onset of colder weather, I’m mindful of the impact this time of year tends to have on me, notably Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In anticipation, I plan to take things a bit easier over the next few weeks, allowing myself some needed rest and recalibration to stay healthy and maintain my creative output.

🍁 Looking Ahead:

During this quieter period, I will be focusing on self-care, continuing my reading, and beginning the initial edits on “Forged in Blood.” It’s important to balance productivity with personal health, and I’m committed to managing both as we move into November.

I’d love to hear how you adjust to seasonal changes and manage your creative projects during these times. Do you find certain times of the year more challenging or inspiring? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights and updates from my journey as an author!

📚 Fantasycon Highlights & Creative Endeavours | Author Diary – October 18, 2024🎩🎃

In this week’s Author Diary, I share my experiences from Fantasycon, delve into new and ongoing writing projects, and explore some intriguing reads.

🏰 Fantasycon Adventures:

This past weekend at Fantasycon was a whirlwind of inspiration and connection. Participating in panels, enjoying the banquet, and meeting both fellow authors and avid readers was fantastic. It’s always exhilarating to be part of such a dynamic gathering of creative minds.

🎩 Crafting a New Lord Sidebottom Tale:

In the spirit of Halloween, I’ve started working on a new Lord Sidebottom story. This steampunk adventure promises to be as wacky and inventive as its protagonist, perfectly fitting for the spooky season. I’ll be posting this as a free story on my Patreon on October 31! Visit: patreon.com/joncronshawauthor

🗡️ Progress on “Forged in Blood”:

I’m also nearing the completion of “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series. Currently 80% through the draft, the final stages are both the most challenging and exciting as I tighten the narrative and escalate towards a compelling climax.

📖 Reading Update:

After finishing “The Eye in the Pyramid,” the first book of the Illuminatus! trilogy by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson, I’m still processing its wild and intricate narrative. Now, I’ve moved on to “Incarcerat,” part of the TerrorTome series by Garth Marenghi. This horror parody offers a refreshing and humorous take on the genre, proving to be an entertaining read.

I’d love to hear about your experiences at conventions, any Halloween-themed stories you’re working on, or your thoughts on blending humour with horror in literature.

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights from my author’s journey!

🎉 7 Years and Countless Stories: Celebrating My Author Diary Podcast! 🎙️

Hello from Morecambe!

Can you believe it? This week marks the 7th anniversary of my Author Diary podcast!

On October 8, 2017, I nervously hit ‘record’ for the very first time, not knowing where this journey would lead.

Now, 366 consecutive weekly episodes later, I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone with you, my loyal listeners and readers.

🌟 A Journey Through the Ravenglass Universe 🌟

For seven years, every single Saturday, I’ve invited you into my world:

• Sharing the triumphs and challenges of bringing my fiction to life,

• Offering exclusive sneak peeks at upcoming releases and works-in-progress,

• Discussing my favourite reads, films, and TV shows,

💖 Thank You for Being Part of This Adventure 💖

This podcast has been more than just a diary; it’s been a conversation with you, my wonderful community of readers and fellow fantasy enthusiasts.

Your support, questions, and enthusiasm have fueled this journey, making each episode a joy to create.

🔮 Looking to the Future 🔮

As we embark on year eight of the Author Diary podcast, I’m more excited than ever about what’s to come. Expect:

• Even more behind-the-scenes insights into the Ravenglass Universe,

• Exciting announcements about new projects,

• In-depth discussions on fantasy literature and storytelling,

• And maybe a few surprises along the way!

🎧 Never Miss an Episode 🎧

If you haven’t tuned in yet, now’s the perfect time to start!

You can find Jon Cronshaw’s Author Diary podcast on all major platforms:

• Spotify

• Apple Podcasts

• Stitcher

Simply search for “Jon Cronshaw’s Author Diary” and subscribe.

Or ask Alexa to play “Jon Cronshaw’s Author Diary podcast” (be sure to add podcast at the end).

New episodes release every Saturday – perfect for your weekend listening pleasure!

Thank you for seven incredible years.

Here’s to many more adventures!

Until next time, cherio.

Jon

P.S. If you prefer video, I post my weekly diaries on YouTube every Friday. Visit: youtube.com/c/joncronshawauthor

🎉 Celebrating 7 Years & Gearing Up for Fantasycon | Author Diary – October 4, 2024 📚🎙️

Join me in this week’s Author Diary as we celebrate a significant milestone, delve into current projects, and look forward to an exciting event.

🎉 7th Anniversary of the Author Diary Podcast:

This week marks the seventh anniversary of my Author Diary podcast. It’s been a wonderful journey of sharing insights, challenges, and triumphs from my writing life. I’ve enjoyed connecting with all of you, and I’m grateful for your continued support.

📖 Current Writing and Reading:

I’ve been making steady progress on “Forged in Blood,” the latest installment in the Guild of Assassins series. Writing this book has been an intricate process, weaving complex characters and dark themes into the narrative fabric. Alongside writing, I’ve been immersed in “Vengeful Spirit” from the Horus Heresy series, a gripping tale that complements the intense and dramatic tone of my own work.

👥 Reader Interaction:

In this special anniversary episode, I took the opportunity to answer some reader questions.

🏰 Prepping for Fantasycon:

Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to be attending Fantasycon next weekend. I’ll be participating in four panels discussing topics ranging from rogues and grimdark to post-apocalyptic fiction and the portrayal of disability beyond the trope of ‘superpower.’ As I prepare for the convention, I’m excited to meet many of you there, share insights, and explore the diverse and dynamic world of fantasy literature.

Stay tuned for updates from Fantasycon and more adventures from the writing desk!

I’d love to hear your thoughts on podcast milestones, your experiences with fantasy conventions, or any questions you might have about writing and reading. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights and updates from my author’s journey!

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