๐Ÿ“˜ Draft Completion & Seasonal Reflections | Author Diary – October 25, 2024 ๐Ÿ‚๐Ÿ“š

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.

๐Ÿ“– 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.

๐Ÿ“š 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.

๐Ÿ•ฐ๏ธ 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.

๐Ÿ 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? Donโ€™t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights and updates from my journey as an author!

๐Ÿ“š Fantasycon Highlights & Creative Endeavours | Author Diary โ€“ October 18, 2024๐ŸŽฉ๐ŸŽƒ

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

๐Ÿฐ 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.

๐ŸŽฉ Crafting a New Lord Sidebottom Tale:

In the spirit of Halloween, Iโ€™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. Iโ€™ll be posting this as a free story on my Patreon on October 31! Visit: patreon.com/joncronshawauthor

๐Ÿ—ก๏ธ Progress on “Forged in Blood”:

Iโ€™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.

๐Ÿ“– Reading Update:

After finishing “The Eye in the Pyramid,” the first book of the Illuminatus! trilogy by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson, Iโ€™m still processing its wild and intricate narrative. Now, Iโ€™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.

Iโ€™d love to hear about your experiences at conventions, any Halloween-themed stories youโ€™re working on, or your thoughts on blending humour with horror in literature.

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

๐Ÿ“š Perseverance and Progress | Author Diary – September 27, 2024 ๐Ÿค’โœ๏ธ

This week’s Author Diary is a testament to the challenges and triumphs of the creative process, even when under the weather.

๐Ÿค’ Battling Illness:

Despite being ill this week, I pressed on with my writing commitments. It’s often difficult to maintain momentum during such times, but staying connected to my projects helps keep my spirits up.

I managed to add about 10,000 words to “Forged in Blood,” the second book in the Guild of Assassins series

๐Ÿ“˜ Reading Updates:

 I wrapped up “Fake Heroes” by Otto English, a compelling read that offers sharp insights into cultural and historical narratives.

Moving on, Iโ€™ve started “Vengeful Spirit,” part of the expansive Horus Heresy series. Diving into this new book has been a great way to escape and recuperate, immersing myself in the rich lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe.

๐Ÿ“… Looking Ahead:

As I recover and continue with “Forged in Blood,” I look forward to regaining my full strength and embracing the creative challenges ahead.

Next week, I hope to share more positive updates and perhaps some insights from my journey through the Horus Heresy series.

I’d love to hear about how you cope with setbacks and continue to find inspiration in your projects or readings. Donโ€™t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more weekly insights from my author’s life and the perseverance that drives it!

๐Ÿš€ Launch Prep & Creative Ventures | Author Diary – June 7, 2024๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŽธ

Join me in this weekโ€™s Author Diary as I gear up for the exciting launch of “Guild of Assassins,” dive into some captivating reading, and continue my work on ongoing projects.

๐Ÿ“˜ Preparing for “Guild of Assassins” Launch: The launch of “Guild of Assassins” is just around the corner, and preparations are in full swing. This phase is always thrilling as everything starts coming togetherโ€”from final edits to marketing strategies. I’m eager to share this new installment with you all and hope it captivates and entertains.

๐Ÿ“– Current Reading: This week, I’ve been engrossed in “Rip It Up and Start Again,” a fascinating book about the post-punk music scene. It’s an insightful exploration of the genre’s evolution and its impact, offering great inspiration and a break from the writing routine.

๐Ÿ“ Writing Updates:

  • “Wyvern Rider”: I managed to draft a new chapter for “Wyvern Rider,” further developing the story’s complex world and deepening the characters’ journeys.
  • “Punks Versus Zombies”: Additionally, I’ve written two new episodes for “Punks Versus Zombies.” Keeping the narrative fresh and engaging in this series is always a fun challenge.

As I balance book launch preparations with writing and reading, I look forward to the new insights and developments each brings. Stay tuned for more updates on the launch and my creative progress next week.

Iโ€™d love to hear what you’re reading or how you manage multiple creative projects. Donโ€™t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights into my author’s life and journey through the worlds I create!

๐ŸงŸโ€โ™‚๏ธ Writing Updates & Literary Ventures | Author Diary – May 19, 2024 ๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŽถ

Welcome to this weekโ€™s Author Diary! Dive into my latest writing achievements, exciting publishing plans, and my current engaging read.

๐Ÿ“ “Punks Versus Zombies” Progress:
This week, Iโ€™ve been busy with the “Punks Versus Zombies” series, successfully writing episode 38 and drafting the first version of episode 39. Each episode brings new challenges and twists, keeping the series fresh and thrilling.

โœ๏ธ “Wyvern Rider” Redrafting:
I’m currently redrafting “Wyvern Rider,” a story close to my heart. Iโ€™m excited to announce that I will start posting it on Ream starting May 18. It’s shaping up well, and I can’t wait to share this adventure with my readers.

๐Ÿ“š Expanding Content on Ream:
Alongside new stories, I’ve been posting a selection of my old short stories and novellas on Ream. There’s a treasure trove of narratives I’ve crafted over the years, and I’m looking forward to bringing more of these into the light for new and longtime readers to enjoy.

๐ŸŽถ Current Reading:
Iโ€™ve been engrossed in “Delta Blues โ€“ The Life and Times of the Mississippi Masters Who Revolutionized American Music.” This book has been a fascinating journey into the roots and profound impact of Delta blues on American music, offering deep insights and appreciation for this influential genre.

As I continue to write, redraft, and delve into the profound depths of music history, I look forward to sharing more about my creative process and the inspirations behind my work.
Feel free to discuss your thoughts on the evolution of series writing, rediscovering old stories, or any profound music history books you’ve encountered.
Donโ€™t forget to like, share, and subscribe for weekly insights into my author’s life and explorations in storytelling!

๐ŸงŸโ€โ™‚๏ธ New Episodes & Exciting Plans | Author Diary – Punks Vs. Zombies, Wasteland Series & More | Author Diary, February 23, 2024๐Ÿ“šโœจ

Welcome to this week’s Author Diary where I discuss my latest writing ventures, including updates on “Punks Versus Zombies,” plans for the Wasteland series, and the progress of “The Wolf and the Wyvern,” along with my current reading journey.

๐Ÿ“ “Punks Versus Zombies” Update:

This week, Iโ€™ve been working on the next episode of “Punks Versus Zombies.” Crafting this series has been an exciting journey, and Iโ€™m thrilled to share the latest developments with you.

๐ŸŒ Posting Fiction on Royal Road:

I’ve started posting fiction on Royal Road. Itโ€™s a fantastic platform to reach new readers, and I’m looking forward to seeing how my work resonates with the community there.

๐Ÿ“– “The Wolf and the Wyvern” Progress:

Iโ€™ve completed redrafting Ragnar’s POV in “The Wolf and the Wyvern,” book 2 of Ravenglass Legends. This has been a significant milestone, and Iโ€™m excited about how the story is shaping up.

๐Ÿœ๏ธ Wasteland Series Plans:

I’m also planning to publish my Wasteland series beyond Amazon next month. Stay tuned for more updates!

๐Ÿ“š Reading Insights:

Revisiting โ€œThe Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxyโ€: Rereading this classic has been a delightful experience, reminding me of the brilliance of Douglas Adamsโ€™ work.

โ€œYellowfaceโ€ by Rebecca Kuang: I’m halfway through and finding it a thought-provoking read. Iโ€™ll share more of my thoughts on this intriguing book in the upcoming weeks.

Next week, Iโ€™ll continue with the creative momentum, further developing my ongoing projects and diving deeper into my reading list.

Feel free to share your experiences with writing serials, exploring new platforms like Royal Road, or thoughts on the books I’m reading.

Donโ€™t forget to like, share, and subscribe for weekly insights into my author’s life!