When you start out in traditional publishing, you are very eager. You’ve heard rumors about this other Big Name Author who is “difficult” and is “a bitch” and you don’t want to be difficult. Then you gain experience and realize that bringing a story from the manuscript to the book isn’t the smooth road you thought it would be.
On one hand, being creative on schedule is difficult. Writing isn’t like making widgets. Sometimes it just doesn’t go, but deadlines wait for no one. I have a deadline dream that reoccurs when I am in danger of missing one. I stand on the beach. The ocean is dark, and massive waves, huge, tsunami sized waves, are coming toward me. Sometimes I have to run so they don’t get me. But mostly I just stare at the manifestation of my anxiety in a kind of despair. I never drown, but it isn’t a nice dream.
Most writers are stressed when they are on a deadline, and most of the working writers are always on a deadline. So you are stressed and anxious, you’ve done your best, and then you finally turn the manuscript in. The relationship between a writer and their editor is very personal and requires a great deal of trust. You are turning over your work to your editor and hope that it will be better by the end of the process. People get emotional about it.
The relationship between a writer and their publisher is impersonal. From the corporate point of view, you are a number. They know how much you earn for the company. No matter how much you sell, you are usually locked out of the decisions like the cover art or publicity direction. You are not a member of the team.
I know it sounds harsh and other people may have had a different experiences, but I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve said things like, “I fundamentally hate this cover” and the art department came back with “We photoshoped a chunk of hair on her forehead. Problem solved.” When you don’t sell enough, your concerns are mostly ignored. When you sell enough, you are appeased but not really included.
Little by little, small professional grievances accumulate until you do become difficult, because you worked hard and you feel an urge to advocate for your work. Mod R recently got the front seat to how difficult the process of making the manuscript into a book could be and at some point she sent me an email asking me if I was screaming into a pillow. It can be very frustrating.
Self-publishing has given us a chance to step off that moving sidewalk. Which isn’t to say that if tomorrow someone shows up with a truck of money and dumps it in our driveway, we won’t consider jumping back into the traditional publishing again. We may. But right now we are going to focus on our self-published efforts.
Which brings me to the true reason for this post.
A lot of you want to know what’s next, when is it coming out, when when when when…
::insert smiley face::
The entire point of stepping back from the traditional publishing is to take a break from the deadlines and the constant pressure. We are not going to trade 1 publisher for 25,000 of you who daily access this site.
We will not be telling you what we are working on. We will not be announcing it. You will hear about it when it’s ready to go up for preorder.
In the past, we always shared with you what we were working on. That’s not working so well anymore, because no matter what we choose to work on, someone is always unhappy that we are not working on the thing they like the most. From now on, we will be like Beyonce dropping her surprise album. We will quietly work and then go, “Here it is, all done!”
We both want to work at our own pace and take our time. We don’t want the stress of not meeting a deadline. If we don’t meet one, nobody has to know. When things are ready to be published, they will be up on the Release Schedule. We will announce them on the blog and in the newsletter. The retailers will also notify you of availability. We got this.
We appreciate all of you. We are glad you enjoy our work.
We hope whatever we choose to do in the future will be fun for you and us both.
I fully support this path. It makes complete sense to me.
Of course, this is from someone who never told the kids when their dental and doctor’s appointments were coming up, because they got too worked up over it. It was easier on everybody to just show up at school and have the office call them in.
Also, meal planning: I do it for myself, but if someone’s doing it for me, I’m grateful for whatever they’re serving. You guys knock yourselves out in the kitchen for us all the time. Thank you for all of it. It’s fine if you want to show us how the sausage is made, but that’s totally up to you.
Oooooo – I like the way you think!
Same I still dont tell them about vacations or family outings. Or else they would nag me until it happened.
Yes – I want you to enjoy your writing process. To relax & work as your life & health allows.
????????????
+1
Me too
+ 1
A wonderful thing about your books is that they’re like old friends. If I get lonely for an Ilona Andrews book I have plenty that I can revisit. I just reread Blood Heir and loved it. Again ???? And I know (hope) that sooner or later it will be Aurelia Ryder’s turn for another story. There’s always something delicious on the menu at House Andrews.
+100000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000
+1
do it the way you want to to do is
i think the most of us are happy with all you want to write and wie can read it
Like every job it is never good when it get just stress and the fun goes away
Totally Understandable. I so enjoy what you write.
Thank you both.
+1, and congratulations!
+2
Power to House Andrews for setting boundaries.
+1 ????
I appreciate everything you share with us, but those are gifts from the two of you to us. Gifts should not be demanded or whined about. We should all be grateful for whatever gifts we receive (unless they are from the pets and involve dead creatures or poop ????).
I hope this brings you less stress and allows you to enjoy the process more. Selfishly, I want you to take care of yourselves so that you will keep writing stories for me to buy. ????
+1
+1!!
+1
I’m going to read whatever you guys write as soon as I can get my hands on it. And I’ll just watch and wait patiently until your surprise publications hit the market. Yay to House Andrews!
+1
+1 Amen!
+1
Actually +1 to all comments saying HA does what, when then gives whenever…I’ll be waiting ????
+1
+1 to both MariaZ’s and Breann’s comments!
Thank you for all you give to the BDH!
+1
Thank you for sharing this. Stressful, indeed! Wishing you a restful recovery.
I have read everything you have written and have enjoyed it immensely. Absolutely do not want House Andrews stressed. 🙂
I think that House Andrews should take a nice holiday to unwind from Ruby Fever and then work on whatever it is you want.
I would read anything you wrote anyway so …. I win no matter what LOL.
+1
+1
Good for you!!! I hope you make tons of money this way and can enjoy your writing process again. I, like others, will read anything you write whenever you get it out to us. ????
Honestly, checking the blog and discovering that House Andrews has a whole new book, fully written, ready to go ! Will be incredible, and I can’t wait
Yes!!!!
Agree!
Hugs…..
+1
I totally enjoy all of your work! And as far as whatever you choose to do and share with us in the future, I definitely have no doubts about how very much I’ll enjoy it! Thank you for sharing with us the immense talent of your writing!
I completely understand. Hoping you have better dreams now that you have less stress about deadlines!
Great plan! Good for you. ????????????????
Enjoy the freedom!
Thank you for taking us along when you visit your worlds of imagination.
+1,000
You know best for yourselves. I read whatever you write. Take a break that refreshes.
Happy writers = excellent stories. Excellent stories come from the freedom and time to explore new and interesting ideas.
You are worth waiting for.
+1000
Makes total sense. I hope you both take a nice break before you start writing again though. I will gladly read any book you decide to work on next. Just tell me when it’s ready and I’ll gladly throw my money at the ebook purchase! Heck I’ll probably even get it in audio format since I do this for my favorites. Have a great break and let us know if you find any good books along the way that you enjoy! I’m in search of some new to me authors!
Mod R, luv, can your magic earring find that post of author/book recommendations IA did and many of us commented on (so many)? Please? I thought there was a link in the menu, but can’t find it now. I’m in need of a new author or two, myself.
Sure, there are several 🙂 :
1. The initial one back in 2018 https://ilona-andrews.com/2018/open-thread-for-author-and-blog-recommendations/
2. This from summer of last year- ignore the audio and sci fi part, everyone just ended up recommending what they liked 🙂 https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/audio-recommendations-and-negative-reviews/
3. The “Recommended Read” tag with IA’s general recommendations https://ilona-andrews.com/category/recommended-read/
4. A more general entertainment round-up, in case web dramas or gaming is also in your interests https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/entertainment-roundup/
Hope this helps 🙂
Thanks Mod R you are a gem!
Thank you, thank you.
Thanks! I knew you would bibbity bobbity boo it out of the park!
THANK YOU Mod R! I was thinking the same thing. Need something to fill in. SO excited for Ruby Fever! HA, would never want to push a creative venture. I would rather have fewer books short term than burnout and no books long term. I suspect the rest of the BDH feels the same way. Love you all!
I can’t imagine being under all of that constant work stress, especially with such creative work. Glad you’ve found a path forward. And I love surprises!
You are very fortunate to be able to self-publish to an eager market. You also worked very hard to get there. Congratulations on this achievement.
As a card-carrying member-in-good-standing of the BDH, I’m ready to devour your next book, whenever it happens and whatever it may be about, whatever world it takes place in. There aren’t many authors (or musicians) I put on auto-buy status.
Thank you for everything! Just don’t be too difficult to yourselves.
There’s a card?! How do I get one?! 😉
Ooooh, a caarrd. Yes please.
A card for the BDH? I would totally be showing it off to my friends, the book club members, anyone else I convinced to read one of your books and become a BDH…
Oh my gosh. There needs to be a card! Bwahahahaha! I would totally buy a BDH membership card. ????
Count me in! Yes please! 🙂 🙂
I’m so happy to know you are now in control of your writing schedule. I know the stress has been very difficult for you. Congratulations on being your own boss! Hopefully this will lead to less stress and danger of burnout. We’ll see you when we see you. ????
Well, every Friday for a start ????, for the Innkeeper serial!
Oh, good the Innkeeper serial continues! For a hot minute, I afraid “won’t tell you what we’re working on” might preclude these.
Good on HA for doing what works best for you as writers. The Source of Good Reads must be protected and happy!
Here is my preorder ????????????. I’ll just reread the already written stuff till you give me new stuff ????????????????????????❤️❤️❤️
Brilliant! Have fun ????
I have never understood why people post negative notes on any writer’s blog or website. If you don’t like the book, move on, read another. If you want their work to hurry and come out, I understand, I can’t wait either. To post your demands, tho, seems rude and unproductive.
The job of the reader is to find items they want to read and the job of the writer is to write the story in their heart. If both match, awesome. If not, find another story that speaks to you and be happy. If you can’t find one, ask a librarian! They will have so many recommendations for you! I’m a librarian, I know. 🙂
That readers would write to an author demanding some particular book always struck me as totally outrageous. Then there are the one who tell the authors how to write or what they did wrong and how to fix it. People are nuts.
or the people complaining like “oh another X? I wanted Y… when is Y coming out…” all while on the announcement page for X! Sometimes people’s audacity shocks me
Love what you write! Whenever we have access to it, it’s a win. Life should be what works for you!
So very happy you are doing this to take care of yourselves! I look forward to many more years of reading what your imaginations produce 🙂
Congratulations!
Freedom from arbitrary professional deadlines … The stuff that dreams are made of ????
I’m here for whatever catches your interest.
I hope the self publishing route alleviates some of that pressure and I look forward to releases popping up when they are ready. All the best to you both x
Great idea! It has always seemed to me that the primary benefit of self publishing is just this–you get to take control.
I am sure we’ll ultimately be happy with whatever shows up. I guess the only thing I’m wondering if any of your previous published work is off the table to do self published sequels to because of some contract language. Does any publisher own any new work in x universe? Or are you free and clear? (I hope!)
Happy to say nobody owns anything except House Andrews 🙂
They could write another Connor and Nevada book and nobody could say no!
Happy Dance!
I was hoping that all their universes belong to them officially. 🙂
+100
Sounds wonderful!
I eagerly await your Lemonade.(:
Awesome.
So smart. This sounds like a path to well-being! I am a big fan of that. I think we are a trainable bunch????
I’ve always appreciated how much you’ve communicate with us as readers. I hope this works out for. Love your books and look forward to your future work.
I, for one, have never found you difficult. Reticent, perhaps even initially standoffish, but not difficult. Still, it did take awhile for you to appreciate my gruff veteran returns to his bucolic small town thing. It’s like you never watched a Hallmark movie. Perhaps because they weren’t a thing yet.
You didn’t have a German Shepherd. A rookie mistake.
????????????.
One should never pass on an opportunity to use the word bucolic.
Dying on the back porch here because my brain is busy processing a House Andrews Hallmark Special …. ????
Lol- while we don’t have the hallmark channel on free view in the UK, I’ve seen enough cheese afternoon movies that probably originated from hall mark that I can so picture this ????
Whatever your story it’s your’s alone and worthy of respect. I don’t always get my partner, he sometimes gets me, but we laugh together all the time and that’s what counts. I am truly happy that the two of you are doing what’s right for you at this pointin time. Good on you and stay safe and strong.
Bravo.
You write it. We will buy it. All of it.
May your new version of work and life be happy, and filled with joy.
This, times 3000!
Good that you are taking care of yourselves. Most important thing!
Good for you!!! Please enjoy the process of creating the wonderful worlds and characters you do. I’m so glad you’ve made these decisions!
Great plan! Thank you for working hard on finding ways to take care of your mental health while also continuing your writing.
I truly laughed out loud at “we’ll be like Beyoncé!” Good life strategy 🙂
Thank you for all you do!
Standing ovation!
After too many outrageously stressful years I am so happy you can establish better working conditions.
I will definitely be pre-ordering any book you publish.
So sensible
I’m sure whatever you choose to do the horde will devour 🙂 I hope that this way will be beneficial to you and Gordon because fundamentally I love you both first as people (you are both wonderful and make me giggle) and then as authors as your books provide a safe heaven for me. Sending love and light from Oxfordshire
To be honest, I never understood the need to know what will be written or published in the next 3,4,5 years.
It doesn’t mean anything. It might happen as planned, but most likely it won’t.
Knowing what’s going to happen around the time the preorder link appears, is soon enough for me.
I’m delighted with your news. I have followed your blog for many years and been concerned when you posted about deadline stress. So, so, so happy that you are able to make this decision. It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to work for yourself and with the people you choose rather than settling or being forced.
You are one the few authors on automatic pre order. Whatever you write I will buy. I even liked Alphas! And would have followed that story had you expanded on it. Enjoy your time off, you so deserve it!!!
Good for you guys, these stories are your world that you have created, yes we love your stories and can never get enough of they. But we shouldn’t be cracking a whip demanding that we know what you should be working on. I hope that you will find the time and energy for your family an yourselves.
Perfect! It will be like an unexpected Christmas Day when you announce new material. People say they don’t like surprises, but personally, I don’t know anyone who doesn’t absolutely love a good surprise! Have fun 🙂
Congratulations! Big fan of healthy boundaries. I also like happy surprises. Have fun!
I am happy to take what I can get, when I get it. Thank you.
Now I have images in my head of “Gordon and Ilona” as Beyonce. Twerking … way beyond disturbing.
🙂
With two books in the pipeline (Ruby Fever & Sweep-in-progress), we can happily anticipate any new projects that you would like to keep under wraps, without becoming uncivil about it. Happy creating. And thank you (can’t say it enough)
Sweep in Progress ????
Sounds like a great approach! Much as I love knowing exactly what’s coming (especially during this age of uncertainty where the news alternatives between bad and horrifying), it’s still nice to have surprises in life – I’m looking forward to whatever you release 🙂
Damn autocorrect. “Alternatives” should’ve been “alternates.”
Sigh. Must pour myself another cup of coffee!
Maximize your pleasure in writing? I am totally fine with it as it will probably maximize your output for us to devour as well. 😉
Announcing books when they can be immediately ordered? A dream!
You could take it one step further: we register for auto-buy and get the books as soon as you press the „finish“-button. (Seriously, why hasn‘t anybody implemented this yet?)
Happy writing!
Too right!!! As someone who loves everything you write. I wait with bated breath. Apologies for our whining and demanding two year old behaviour.
Ditto to all of the supportive comments!!
I agree with you 100%.
I’ve loved all your series and at this point trust you and Gordon implicitly.
Take your time and have fun with it. (Hell, Jim Butcher does.)
Ya’ll are worth the wait.
Good for you. You’ve earned that sort of creative freedom.
Sounds good to me. It means there will be more books, and however we get there is just fine.
Good for you! I’m so glad to hear you’re taking back control over how you work and what you work on and when, so that you can enjoy the work you do so well.
As a fan, it hurts my heart to imagine you being sort of brow-beaten (by deadlines and the commercial grind) to write these wonderful stories and create these fascinating universes. I hope this new path brings you much less stress and more joy in your work, as so many of us find joy in the art you share with us.
You need to look after yourselves. We’ll always read whatever you produce, whenever you produce it. It’s always worth the wait.
What a sweet Husband thing Gordon said about Ilona. Veteran returns to small town and meets special woman – just like Hallmark movie. What a wonderful pairing. Thanks for all the written words you both have given us readers. We will continue to read and buy anything you write.
Good for you! When the established way isn’t working any more it’s time to try a different path.
You have brought me so much pleasure since your first book was published; I hope this decision brings more joy into your lives.
Thank you, Ilona Andrews for the post.
Your plan sounds great for you two.
I have greatly enjoyed and appreciated your blog over the last few years. Thank you.
Titan has grown into dog hood with the Friday night out loud innkeeper snippet readings while he gets his tummy scratched. He thinks that is normal. Thank you.
So we go forward with a “new” normal which is the way life really is because then after a while it changes again to another new normal. It’s life.
Thank you.
Was just deleting all the half finished samples off my book reader. The subjects varied wildly. You’ve gotta sift a lot of sand to find the flecks of gold. It’s rare to find a really good writer. I’ve definitely got my favorites of your worlds and characters. But what really keeps me coming back is the stories are so good.
First book of yours I read was one from The Edge. I remember loving it but at the same time being aware it wasn’t really my kind of thing. Then I went and found the next one. After finishing them all, I checked into what else you’d written. Again my first thought was Kate Daniels, not really my kind of thing. But I still read them all.
Personally I think you folks will do just fine writing whatever. I don’t think it’s the subjects, genres, or established characters. I think it’s that you are good story tellers.
Precisely!
Hooray to becoming your own boss. I’m thrilled you’ve set boundries and will be able to lower your stress levels! I’ve read everything you’ve written mutiple times and want you to continue writing for many years to come. It will only happen if you are happy and not stressed. I’ve got my husband hooked on you too – it’s awesome to be able to discuss different books. Thank you for taking care of yourselves. House Andrews Rocks!!
I’ve never understood some people. I’ve been happily waiting on Fridays with plans to pre-order as soon as possible.
I’ve also been hoping you’re working on Hugh #2 or Ryder #2, or something starring Arabella Baylor.
You specialize in the kind of surprises I enjoy, and I have several other authors who publish things I like with enough frequency that I never lack for something fun.
It’s your living, and – more importantly – your life. Enjoy it.
Just because I’m occasionally impatient doesn’t mean it will kill me to wait. Whatever you publish will be entirely worth it.
Yes, Judy, exactly! Hugh and Elara 2, or Arabella 1. These are my hopes and dreams for what’s next.
But realistically, anything House Andrews puts up for preorder, I’m buying the Kindle. And I do like surprises.
Excellent decision! I hope that when you surprise us with your next book, that we also get a surprise book launch. I have really enjoyed the launch parties – there have been priceless moments with the two of you along with Moderator R.
Sounds like a much better way of being, looking forward to whatever you make!
No worries. Everything you have written is awesome. Stop listening to the whiny “bees” and focus on what you do.
We love you (in that professional reader to author type way).
YAY! I’m so happy to hear this.
I enjoy following this blog, and I LOVE reading your books.
Take care of yourselves.
Congratulations, that’s epically liberating for you both. I look forward to seeing what you two create now that you’re off leash. Hopefully it’s a better work life balance.
I love this approach and will gratefully devour any new publications in the order and timing they arrive in.
Hopefully, this will reduce stress!
Awesome, I love surprises ????????
Just like the good old pre-Internet days, when you found out about a new book when you walked into the bookstore and checked the ‘new books’ rack…
Ok, kids, for those of you who are too young to know what a bookstore is…
I’m trying to remember if my hometown even had a bookstore when I was growing up. I know we went to the library a lot, but I think that was because mom read a lot and it was cheaper than a bookstore, but I really can’t remember a brick-and-mortar bookstore. Of course, my hometown only had 10,000 people, so not that big. Closest “big” town with a mall was about 45 minutes away, so people probably went up there and to the bookstore while shopping for other stuff at the mall.
I’m very happy for you. Stress and anxiety on a daily basis not only impact your health but also your quality of life. I hope things are better for you from now on 🙂
Being in control of your time is a type of wealth few people own. Perhaps it’s more accurate to say that few people choose the path to truly be in charge of their time.
As someone who recently retired from the work world, I’ve been creating a different relationship with time. I have to say it’s wonderful to honor the rhythms of my body, rather than ignoring them to power towards someone else’s deadlines.
I hope this new way exceeds your expectations.
Lovely example of setting important boundaries for your lives and work. Thank you for your graciousness.
Kelly
I love your work. I hope this process works for you. I’m happy to read whatever you write whenever I can get my greedy hands on it.
As someone else said, A+ for drawing boundaries. May you do the work you love in the way that keeps you loving it. While I have my favorites of your work, I have never been disappointed and have reread them all. I look forward to whatever comes next. Good luck!
Wise wise decision. ????????????
What’s next?
THIS BLOG! This blog itself is what’s next.
I consider your blog the cake and any book you also choose to create and share the ICING on top of the cake. Thank you for sharing your creativity and giving us a glimpse into your internal process. (The sweet pet photos are also a joy! Thanks!)
????
I, for one, am so glad to hear this. We want you both hale and whole — in whatever way that means for you. I think we all collectively know that if you achieve that state, your best work will come–hopefully in a flowing, non-stressed way.
I used to be a musician, and songwriting for me was the same way. I had a really hard time writing according to someone else’s timeline.
Thank you for all that you gift us with, and I sincerely hope this direction will be financially and emotionally rewarding for you.
First, yay you! Always worth waiting for, always a joy to read and re-read!
Second, I’ve been delving into the worlds of self-published authors for several years and loving what I find. They aren’t always polished and perfect but(!) they are enjoyable stories I’ve read and re-read as often as a traditionally published story.
They write their tale, released it into the wild and by golly, I found it without the benefit of a publishers advertising. Usually, through word of mouth on GoodReads or IG or Facebook or some other author’s blog.
I admire people with the grit to live their truth instead of somebody else’s jumped up version of it. I am excited to see you both walk into the wild. I can’t wait to see what you find there.
House Andrews is a place I look forward to visiting often. No matter what color you paint that house, or what block it sits on, or wood it inhabits, as long as the door is open, I’ll be there.
This is the Way.
To not go crazy.
I’m a programmer in video games. Programming sometimes doesn’t come. You don’t see the answer. You can’t see how to move the code forward. Any everyone is coming at you because the ship date is just around the corner.
I was so stressed out at one point I stopped being able to make short term memories. My brain was fried.
I completely support you protecting yourself from deadlines and demands.
Even if I will be a little sad not knowing what you’re working on. But them’s the breaks. We’ll live. And we’ll still love you and your books.
This is courageous and sensible. I know you don’t always read comments but just wanted you to know you have this hardcore fan’s full support.
Out with the old ways that serve the big corporate machine, in with the new ways that serve you to be your best selves and honour rest, mental health, and balance. I love it. I hope more people take a stand like that.
Sanity is helpful to the writing process :). You take care of you.
It is totally understandable, being able to work without that stress and enjoy the process more. Thank you for all those wonderful stories you shared with us. Take care, we want to read your wonderful stories for many years to come.
My family loves ALL of your work. So we don’t care what you write. It’s always amazing how much you write and what great worlds you create. If this is the best path forward, then charge on. We will be right there to buy the books in print and audio. Can’t wait for your next project – whatever it is. Until then we will happily re-read (just finished the hidden legacy books again). Good luck!
Happy writing, I will gladly wait.
????
I think that is great. I’m a fan of an indi author who just drops a book. You might know she’s getting close but that’s it. It’s not like she’s lost readers and if she has I think it’s worth her sanity.
To heck with the people on this blog that birch and moan. I say Mod R should block them. Questions are fine; however, none of your loyal BDH would ever do this to you. I love every hint; every tidbit that you share. I wait (well not patiently) with bated breath for the next post or book. How presumptuous of anyone on this blog thinking they have the right to tell you what to do. Do what you need to do to have your sanity. I will lovecand appreciate everything you give us.
“To heck with the people on this blog that birch and moan.”
Yeah! We only want people that pine. We don’t like birches. (Sorry, I know it’s a typo, but I just couldn’t resist.)
And we oak things go well whatever aspens
(ducks and runs away)
Does this mean that when working with a traditional publishing house, you had no control over who did the voice narration for Audible books? And that now the choice of reader will be up to you?
As self published authors, House Andrews will control *everything*!
For more on that, here https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/i-have-the-power/
As long as you write something, I’m happy 🙂
I love your stories, and I really enjoy the privilege of getting glimpses into your lives (I know it is a privilege and I NEVER take it for granted). My hope for you and your family is good health, happiness, and prosperity.
I will buy and read whatever you write, whenever and however you choose to release it.
Oh, and Mod R is the best!
Love the change in approach!
I actually really like the mic drop because it means there will be more fresh (never seen before) content in whatever you release.
This way, I will only need to demonstrate patience for a month or so, following announcement, not eons!
I think we all want you guys to enjoy the writing as much as we enjoy the reading.
While it’s fun to see what you are working on, I understand the pressure it can cause, and the distress. Fans can start out well meaning, but end up being extremely toxic for the creator(s) – no matter the media.
I wish you all the best- with hopefully a little less anxiety. I shall await whatever news comes my way.
Good luck to all of you.
You do what you gotta do to get things done in your our time. Love whatever you write.
Please keep it coming.
Full support from me!! I am so grateful for all you have fed me over the years, I re-read always, and any future creations achieves in the midst of current chaos will get extra love. I appreciate your willingness to continue to write, and you will always be an auto buy in whatever format it will be.
I like how future questions of what you are working on will be easily answered by just linking to this blog post XD
Props to you guys for doing what is best for you.
The book devouring hoard will be patiently (lol) waiting.
Good for y’all!!
The Beyonce’s of writers. I love it! I can wait for surprises. So glad you are writing at your own pace now. <3
Anxiously awaiting anything you release. I rather like this approach as the whole time I might be waiting for an Arabella series.
What a super cute baby!
Sounds like a good way to alleviate some stress. As long as you’re still writing, I’m good. I haven’t read anything by you that I haven’t loved so write what you like, I’m sure I’ll like it too (even if you kill the dog. I mean, I managed to make it thru John Wick, so I obviously can handle it)
Yes love this. Making it work for you!!
I have happily devoured just about everything you’ve published – and am delighted that Kinsmen is now going to be in print because I really hate ebooks. Thank you for all the amazing reads and immense gratitude for everything yet to come!
Seems fair to me. If you can’t use success to make your life better, what’s the point of having it in the first place?
These past two years have been a nightmare for just about everyone, especially creative souls. I truly hope this path brings you relief, and joy in the process . Thank you for the relief your writing provides to the BDH.
You have done this before so I really hope that you enjoy the writing process again.
When you notify the community something is coming up for sale, I will be checking whatever you wrote out.
I enjoy your stories and the worlds you build so thank you in advance.
I think after the last couple of years, everyone needs to take a break from deadlines and other stress inducing terrors. But especially authors need it. You’ve helped keep us sane when it looked like the sky was falling!
No problem here. I love you work for ages and I’m happy for whatever comes out.
It would never cross my mind bitching to you and demanding anything. The lesser the stress, the longer you are well, the longer you love what you are doing aso aso…. I wouldn’t want to work under stress and loosing the love for my work. Why should I expect you to do it?
Please keep well and do whatever your life calls you to do. Even if this means stop writing – it it is the best for you. When you would do that, to be honest, I would be sad but my life would not end.
To finish with the words I began with: I love your work!
I have loved everything you’ve written and will be thrilled to purchase whatever you publish in whatever format and which ever order you choose to put it out.
Be happy and as low stressed as possible.
I hope you enjoy writing your books as much as I enjoy reading them. I really look forward to reading whatever you decide to publish next 🙂
I’d read your grocery list, so whatever world is next is great
What is in the pitcher next to the mug in the picture? Is that some type of tea??
no…more…snippets…*sadpuppyface* ..well, there is alway yarn and chocolate..mostly chocolate…and more books…yeah…which also require chocolate…yessss
Hi Susanne,
Snippets will not be cancelled, fear not!
We had a lot of Fated Blades treats whilst it was still “mystery project” and no one knew what it was or when it would come out ☺️- House Andrews can still spoil us with treats without announcing deadlines.
Those snippets were awesome! Trying to figure out if they were for a completely new series or one of the existing ones was a lot of fun.
As a writer of software forced to work with government deadlines and fixed project costs, I totally understand your desire to get rid of artificial deadlines. I have had many nightmares of being tied to the train tracks with the train barreling towards me.
Death to all time constraints! (As I wave my keyboard and mouse like a sword and dagger)
Love it. Thanks for all your hard work.
YAYYYYYY!!!!!!
I’m so happy for you, and for all of us! From everything I’ve read from both traditional and indie publishers, this is going to be a great shift for you, and we’ll get to read what you really want to write, and see it quicker once you’re happy with it than if you had to send it through the trad-pub machine before it could hit the shelves.
I hope you’ll still post slice of life posts, even if you’re not talking about what you’re working on – but I’m on the mailing list, so I don’t have to worry about missing any releases. 😀
Thank you, and *happydance*!
The blog isn’t changing, there will still be slice of life articles, serials, writing posts, snippets and treats etc ☺️
The only difference is the absence of an announced project schedule, with the books only appearing when they’re in the preorder stage.
I read this and get so excited. I love happy surprises. Or maybe presents is a better word since I hate surprises. So, I’m excited for the happy presents. That still doesn’t sound quite right but oh well (shrug).
I’m grateful you are willing to put your food down – so to speak – and change the way you do things yet keep going instead of going and going and then burning out.
There’s not many author’s out there that can make me laugh like you two do (bunny cat kittens).
If you write, I will read. Simple.
I want y’all to still love writing. Creativity doesn’t work on a time table. I know that I will buy what whatever you write, whenever it’s published. So be creative when you’re feeling creative, but also drink tea and knit and spend time with the kiddos.
We appreciate you,all that you do, whenever you do it. Thank you!
You are the masters of your fates, you are the captains of your souls.
I look forward to reading whatever you put forth next. (And I’m sure the covers will be amazing!!)
Good for you! I love your work and if this is what it takes for you guys to keep doing it then I’ll be here cheering on the sidelines and waiting (outwardly) patiently for the next wonderful read.
Good luck and happy writing!!!!
I love this. Good boundaries are vital for your mental and physical health, and I am delighted that you are starting to set some. I’ve expressed my concern for the two of you before, because I feared you were burning yourselves out. Hooray for taking control!
Good for you! Take your time, I’ll read whatever it is that you write when it’s available. Your stories are worth the wait.
You go, HA. There’s a thread on FB about how we always want the answers, we always want to know what’s next, and I’m as bad as anyone about that. But I’ve also got a long view. What’s next will be better if it’s allowed to simmer and cook slowly.
I love HL. Catalina has become one of my favorite characters. I * hate* that the two of hated writing Ruby Fever.
So, as much as I think Arabella as an MC would be a hoot and a half, I’m all for you stepping back and writing what’s making *you* happy and excited. Because ultimately I will be too
Thanks for the update and explanation (although it’s literally your business what and how you write and you don’t owe us this information). I’ll just sit back and enjoy the surprise release notifications! Enjoy what you do, when you want to do it. Hopefully, your anxiety nightmares will soon fade away to lovely, tropical beach scenes where you and Gordon are sipping on the drink of your choice and nibbling on tasty snacks. Best of luck to you both.
Y’all be your bad Beyoncé selves. We’ll take the words when you’re ready. 🙂
House Andrews, I hope you do what makes you happy and not stressed!
Just one question, how will this affect Sweep of the Heart?
Hi Ki,
This will not affect Sweep of the Heart at all!
The blog will remain the same, with serials, snippets from works in progress, slice of life articles etc.
House Andrews are not taking a step back from writing either ????.
The ONLY difference is that projects won’t be announced/given a date of publication before they are completed and ready for preorder.
I hope this clarifies things ☺️
I think what you are doing sounds more sensible. I trust you.
Sounds wonderful! I hope you two find yourself less stressed about writing. As my husband and I are trying to figure out retirement when/where type things. We are finding that some times less is more, so to me having less stress sounds perfect.
Boundaries are SO important. Take a breather and write what you want – I (and the BDH) are here for all of it! I can’t wait to read what’s next!
Great decision!! let’s see what new adventures it brings and new stories to read
Yes, please. As long as you all write, continue to do and write you. Thanks.
Yes! Stick it to the man! (I have no clue who the man is in this situation, did just want to yell this at an opportune moment some day. This seemed like a good time)
Whatever way you two choose to create, then we are grateful to have the end product and, selfishly, one of my first thoughts on reading this blog is, “Happy writers may even write MORE.” Sorry, charter member of the BDH here! 🙂
Thanks to you both for the hours and hours of enjoyment you bring to my life.
P.S. Currently rereading Catalina’s adventures (again) in anticipation of Ruby Fever. These books are just as fun on the fifth reading as on the first!
Love you guys and look forward to whatever you produce, whenever. I’m excited for the surprise. In the meantime, I just started a re-read with Burn for Me.
Thank you for all the wonderful books you write! I hope you’ll be happier with your new process.
What?!?! Only 25,000 show up to cheer (one way or another,;) )!! Come on people don’t be slakers. Show support! (OK I’m just a little funny).
Around 25,000 unique visitors daily. Not always the same though 😉
I won’t spill too much of the data analytics hehe.
It’s a crazy world – do what you need to do to reduce stress in your lives.
Keep it fun for yourselves and reduce your stress!
You got this! Live well.
fist bump the air and yelling .. GO FOR IT
My life has been mostly self-employed and 12 years in a lab working for a big company.
The company paid good money but the self employed brought the most joy. Being self employed was much harder but felt better.
Hope this brings you the happy medium.
I think we’ve been incredibly lucky with what you have shared so far. It’s your work, your creative process, your heart and soul. You have your own lives to live. You need to do what works for you. We still get to read and enthuse over the end product.
If the no deadlines system makes you happy and more stress free, count me in. Furthermore, I think it will be fun to read “now this is up for pre order” without knowing you were working on “it” Let the surprises begin =)
Hi everyone,
I just wanted to clarify a few points based on some of the comments:
-there will be no changes to the blog, House Andrews will still be posting articles and pet pictures etc
– there will still be serials, Sweep of the Heart is not affected by this, and we will still get snippets from works in progress
– House Andrews aren’t going anywhere and are not taking a break from writing
The only difference is that the working schedule won’t be advertised in advance and the publishing date of future self-pub books will not be announced until the project is ready for pre-order.
Cheer up, Horde! 😉
Here’s a funny too
So looking forward to your next works wether it is in the Inn Keeper universe or the Magics or Ryder universes. Just let me know and I will be happy. Have a great day full of stress free creativity.
Totally your choice!! And 100% supported by this loyal reader! I have enjoyed EVERY book you have written, and am re-reading them …..and enjoy re-reading them while I wait for the next book…whatever it will be!
Good for you, to be in a place where you can do this. I’ll just be waiting to see what’s coming
The Innkeeper chronicles are my VERY favorite of your work, or anyone’s work, so I’m ???? behind this, especially if it gets me more Innkeeper????
But since I know literally firsthand how amazing y’all are as people(you did something very generous for me via Twitter), more than anything I hope this makes your lives more peaceful, happy, and stress-free.
I’m a permanent fan of y’all as writers AND as people❤️
Additionally, has it been announced when ‘Sweep of the Heart’ is being released in its entirety as an e-book? I’m wondering if I missed it.
Currently, I’m somehow keeping myself from reading the chapters that have been posted(with GREAT difficulty), so that I can read it all at once. The Innkeeper Chronicles are SO special to me that I have to experience them in a certain way lol I’m a weirdo????
Hi Kimberly,
All announcements are updated in the Release Schedule on the website https://ilona-andrews.com/release-schedule/ (accessible on the left hand side on the desktop, or from the drop down menu if you’re on a mobile browser).
You never need to worry about missing any publishing announcements, if it’s not in the Release Schedule, it hasn’t been talked about 🙂
Hope this helps 🙂
Thanks????
Oooooooo, happy dance. I love surprises like yours. I find delayed gratification frustrating. Surprise me, please.
You’ve got this. 😀 I appreciate all you two have done, shared and given to us.
GOOD FOR YOU, if you can avoid the stress of deadlines that will be awesome!
Also good for us cuz finding out about your next book as its basically ready to publish will be like Christmas Day, Valentines, birthdays, and “for no reason” flowers from your spouse all rolled into one.
Take your time and work at your own pace. Whatever you choose to do in the future, thank you so much for sharing your stories. Reading your books (and your blog) brings me comfort. I read it when the pandemic started. I read it when the war in Ukraine started. I read it when I’m anxious, lonely, and sad. Thank you!
moderator R
i think we ARE cheerful..
.seeing good people being able to call their own shots in this crazy world brings a smile
and while i am new to this blog stuff and seeing all that is GIVEN here so freely by authors you have to be aware that house Andrews HAS TO WRITE..they can’t not write.lol
when you are happy your production increases…
(psst..might even mean more books) what’s not to be happy about
IT’s ALL GOOD!
So glad you are taking control and not letting a publisher or a book devouring hoard pressure you almost constantly. Pressure sucks on many, many levels and you don’t need that.
???????????????????????? I wholeheartedly support anything you choose to write. Thank you.
Yes, to all of this. I’m so happy you’re both doing what causes you the least stress. You’re like Beyonce to me, I’ll buy whatever you write and be happy about it! Yay for healthy boundaries!
Re: standing in the sand, watching the tidal wave roll toward you: I dreamed last night that I was getting married in our basement (dank, shadowy, crickets) and catering the food myself (cooking it, carrying platters up and down the stairs). Had to wake myself up.
You didn’t get off one train to get on another. When you finish it, we will come. Considering how much I enjoy the IA books, I will wait patiently.
You’ve been writing a long time.
I’ve been working, in some capacity, since the age of 11. Call me a lawn boy, baby sitter, store stock clerk, etc. now in the accounting field for over 25 years. I’ve been working a long time.
Far as I am concerned, when you issue a new book, great. Tell me when. I don’t hound authors about this because…what is the point? Why would I ever want to rush you. I place the date of a book to be published in my calendar, or I preorder it
Why are we in such a rush to know when? When did this happen? I do not think anyone asked Hemingway how long he was going to take to write a book (although I’m sure he had deadlines, in the beginning). His style of writing is said to be drawn on personal interactions with people.
Authors need the time to interact. Go interact with real people and enjoy life. I enjoy life by reading your books, and I can wait.
I am taking a small break from
Accounting. For this reason. Too much office time not enough “live” time.
That said, can I please see a new video of Camille? (Yes, I am her cat-stalker).
Thank you, I’ll read anything you write and be patient. You deserve a break, we all do and at times forget to be kind to ourselves.
I am confident that I will enjoy whatever you write next, whenever it is available. I hope this new approach helps you to find more joy and less stress in your work.
I am so sorry to hear that you guys are getting crap from us, your devoted bdh. I just want to say I love everything you write and appreciate the worlds you create. They have helped me through so many of life’s hardships, especially the past few years. Thank you for all of your hard work and your choice is completely understandable.
Brilliant! Happy authors hopefully means a happier life and a happier writing experience. Anyone who complains would have complained no matter what you said.
I hope you enjoy every day!
I’m sitting here smiling. I got an email today from Lisa Shearin with the cover reveal of her next SPI book. She went self-published after being told to write something else other than her SPI and Benares series by the publisher. She said her agent was very supportive and was an immense help in the switch.
Fans can be really pushy and it tends to tick me off on behalf of the author. Life happens, get over yourself! A fan’s control starts and stops with the decision to purchase the new release. If you choose to not purchase because “it took to long or I don’t like that character” bye bye baby. Lots of new authors available in ebooks now so start hunting.
So, I wish both of you the best, write what you want on your schedule, and make sure you have a life. The urge to write and create is strong in both of you so I’m not worried you will stop writing. Looking forward to more new worlds and interesting characters done your way.
Just want to say – graphic audio of Sweep in Peace was AWESOME! I meant to post after listening to the first innkeeper book. I can’t wait for rest of the series 😀
So happy you liked it! ☺️
Boundaries are good – yes, we, the BDH are incessantly greedy, but not at the cost of your health and well-being. You know what works for you, and we’re not going anywhere. Looking forward to seeing what you work on next!
Legit excited for your Beyoncé era.
I understand. I get extra excited and impatient when my authors announce that they are working on a particular book in a series I like.
Good Luck.
Because you’re not contracted for anything, would you ever consider writing an entire short series and then publishing them on a schedule (assuming finances allowed)? For example, if you were to write a prequel duology or trilogy about Aunt Murid, would you ever write all three and then just publish them once a year or on a 6 month schedule to help release some of the pressure associated with writing one book, leaving it, and then having to comeback to something you’re now less compelled by? Or would that be really exhausting and maybe kill your liking for the series by the time you were part way through?
Hi Caitlin,
I will add your question to my List of reader’s questions 🙂
Off the top of my head, but don’t quote me, I would say this plan has a few cons- an author would have to put a lot of work into a series not knowing if it would work for the fans. If volume 1 is released before the writing on volume 2 begins, they can better gage reader reaction, feedback, and sales.
The second thing I’ve learned by now is that authors like to vary their projects as a pick-me-up and to avoid creativity slumps. Knowing now how many revisions and work is involved for each manuscript, 3 books in a row in the same series seems monumental.
Jim Butcher would agree. When he was writing Codex of Alera and Dresden at the same time he was almost 3 times as productive. He would just switch between the two when he was feeling burned out.
Wheeeeee! Go House Andrews! So excited to see you both be free to do whatever strikes your fancy 🙂 Looking forward to all future releases, whenever they come by!
Good. Glad you are claiming your power.
Again, thank you for the bright lights you shine in the world.
Thank you and you got this! Hopefully this approach reduces some of the anxiety you’re feeling!
As one of the Hoard, I am so happy whenever a new book comes out. I also love opening presents, never sure what is in there. New books are like that. Add in the surprise element and Yipee! Thank you for letting us into your worlds.
Legit.
Thanks for the update and happy you are taking charge of your life and happiness. Way to make the boss move.
Always happy to ready what is published by house Andrews.
I love what you guys do. I don’t love 100% of anybody’s work; so what, that’s life. Too bad, so sad. I don’t expect to love 100% of anything, to be honest. Not my food, my home, my garden, my cats, or my children. 100% love #1 grandson – he’s too young to be obnoxious yet.
Be Beyonce if you need to. We will all survive with our little hearts and egos intact. I’m in favor of ANYTHING that helps you do your side of the equation in the best way for you. I am, in fact, eager for you to do whatever the heck you need to work better and happier in your hearts and brains – the better off you are, the more the output, and the more the output, the happier my greedy little heart will be.
You do you!
There are people who are unhappy with what you decide to write? Guess I’m easy to please, I love all your series. And if you write something new, I’ll love that too. See? Easy.
I love to read. It is my pay time, my escape, and during the last two years it was my anchor to sanity. Everytime I finish one of your books I am craving more, but I understand the pressure of deadlines. I respect the influence that deadlines have on the story that you want to tell, and ultimately I support the decision you have made. It seems a positive step for quality of work/life and the right path to tell the stories as you want them to evolve.
I love the Innkeeper series, Kate Daniels’ universe, and The Edge ( Hidden Legacy will be my next series to explore). I love your writing and you owe me nothing, but please don’t leave the stories unfinished! What happens to Hugh and the White Warlock? Is Julie… I mean Aurelia ever going to meet with them or Kate? What about Dina and her parents!? Maud and Helen? Oh and Doli and Jim? Andrea Raphael and baby B? What about an albino-weremongoose? And didn’t forget George! And Jack!? Oh god what happens to Sophie!? Please keep writing!! I will wait as patiently as I can. Just please keep these characters stories going, I love them all.
Glad to see you’re able to try a different approach. Hoping it relieves some of the stress. I’ve enjoyed a lot of looks into how the sausage is made but Grandma has a good point. Keeping some separation between the kitchen and the diners isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
I noticed Ali Hazelwood, a newer author to the scene, released her second novella on audiobook before the ebook. It’s really interesting since her first book The Love Hypothesis was trad published by Berkeley and so is the second work. Perhaps some competition and scheduling constraints are allowing them to be more experimental?
Congratulations! May your lives run with less stress because of your decision.
Thank you for all you both have done. I very much enjoy your books and stories, I have them on multiple formats. My job is stressful and they are my go to comfort, when I need to reset my brain. Thank you again.
Lonnie
Wonderful! Yay to House Andrews, and to boundaries, and to mental health, and to being more like Beyonce 🙂
Will continue to read whatever you write, whenever you drop them. It will be the best surprise.
just adding my support of your plan to write to your own deadlines and not to ours (or a publisher’s).
each story of yours has been a gift to me, and if you never wrote another one, i would still be enriched by the ones you have already finished.
Good for you. Ignore the crowd and do what you think is best.
Good on you for making a decision to benefit your own wellbeing. You have given your readers SO much, regularly in the past years you deserve a break. It will make us anticipate and appreciate your next work x
Here’s to establishing an excellent and enjoyable HA writing process – definitely a win-win scenario.
100% supporting you on this!
Thank god, you over stressing and walking off into the sunset was a worry for me.
If you do a Kickstarter to handle the upfront cost of self publishing please blog that as well. I just gave Sanderson $40 and I like you more.
I, for one, will be excited for and buy whatever you decide to work on. I’ve liked all your series, so I’m thrilled with whatever we get.
Good on you! I’ll be here ready to order what you decide to announce. I love your work and as long as I love (or even really like) your work, I’ll be ordering. I’m glad you’re doing things to reduce your own stress in the creative process.
Selfishly I hope you’ll add a hint or two here and there. And I hope you’ll continue to share the snippets. I enjoy them and they’ve often brought a glimmer of sunshine into my personal space which has been pretty dark the last couple of years.
In the meantime, l’chaim to House Andrews!
I am writing to both support this move, and to say you are the very coolest of people to be writing a series on a blog in the installments. (I <3 INNKEEPER) It's very like the Sherlock Holmes at the very beginning where it was published in a newspaper column. This small thing, I really hope you continue to do. Ultimately I am good either way, as I fully intend on buying both the paperback & kindle … and graphic audio, of all future installments. Happy House Hunting!
~Mary H
Yeah more books! I’m just happy you are writing. I like everything you write. I appreciate your decision to manage to get off the deadline stress train. I’m happy you will be doing something that allows you to take care of you. Also, if it’s possible, perhaps a vacation for you is in order. It sounds like you need one.
This is amazing, taking the time to advocate for yourself is super important and I can’t imagine how stressful traditional publishing is. So excited to see what you’re doing next!
I hope this works out well for you.
I’ll admit that I’m a little disappointed that I won’t know what you’re working on but I fully support you not revealing it if you think that it’s better for you. Us knowing what you’re working on isn’t worth you being hassled by entitled fans.
Best wishes to you and your family and I look forwards to reading what you choose to write next.
I think controlling one’s work destiny is a dream most of us have, as a retiree I achieved it by not working. The relief from not producing and pleasing, is enormous. I even tired my dream job after retiring, teaching, thinking how rewarding and fun-Not. The lives of so many children are heart breaking and teachers see it everyday. So good for you; be yourselves and please yourselves. Best boss you will ever have!
I don’t understand how anyone could be so unsupportive as to get angry you aren’t working on their favorite. While I have my favorites (don’t we all), it’s not up to me to decide what you’re working on next. I may discover a new favorite (I wasn’t at all sure about Innkeeper, and now it’s my favorite)!
Will I miss the announcements? Of course. And I hope (pray, willingly sacrifice the first baked cookie of every batch, etc) you continue dribbling out the chapters in the blog as you’ve done in the past (I look forward to Friday all week!).
The serial and snippets will continue on the blog, no worries ☺️
Makes sense to me! I have enjoyed absolutely everything you guys have written, some more than others obviously but I will take even the book of yours I liked the least of the bunch over just about any other author’s book out there. Whatever works best for you, being stressed nonstop sounds awful and like the worst way to be creative. Will you still be working with the same editor when self published, or do you have to find another editor? It sounds like that’s the most important relationship and the hardest to find
Love it. But really, I need to ask you about when … only kidding.
Your books are always fun. I’ll enjoy any and all of your books whenever they are available and be grateful and happy.
It hurts my heart to see how burnt out you are with people, writing and publishing. I hope that being private again will make things easier for you and your writing. Our pressure on you must be exhausting. I hope that you are given the space that you need to recover and flourish
So glad you are are continuing to write more stories!
????
That’s a good decision for you. I applaud your courage!
Sounds good to me. Its your books, your writing and your business. We just get the thrill of experience when the next book comes out. Thank you both as always
YAY for you guys!!
Love and hugs. As a huge Beyoncé and Ilona andrews fan, this is a perfect synergy moment. Happy writing on your own time and I look forward to surprise releases!
I like and own all your works so whatever you are working on, I will be happy to have! Thank you for sharing your stories and a small piece of yourselves! ????
I enjoy reading your books. I would like to think that you enjoy writing them. I’m glad to hear that you are finding ways to make the experience More comfortable.
You’ve given me so much joy through the books you have written, anything that makes your life easier makes me happy too. Any choices you make that make your health and well-being better, yay!
You owe us nothing, and I owe you so much for the hours an hours and hours of wonder I have had (and will have) reading your books.
If you stop writing today, I’d be sad, but you already created so much. I’m rooting for you guys to be happy, more books or no.
This path seems wonderful! It implies there will be a magic day when the announcement of a new book just shows up in my RSS reader — how cool will that be!
Hip-Hip Hooray for all you wrote in this blog. That’s the way it should be. When it’s ready, let us know, and we’ll be there with checkbooks or plastic in hand.
I am very excited for this approach. It will be like Christmas morning as kid, you never know what’s going to be under the tree but you know it will be awesome.
Yes to all of this. Over the past several years House Andrews has brought me so much joy with your published books, and I’ve also low-key worried about your stress levels, health, and creative joy. This post put such a smile on my face!
Thank you for setting kind but firm boundaries and expectations as you shift into a new career phase. One of my favorite indie authors is going through living hell as they retroactively set boundaries and systems in place to protect themselves from armchair dictators.
I have a terrible memory and never remember exact book drop dates anyway. I like this because everyday there is a chance for a surprise.
I hope you enjoy whatever new projects you work on. Or go on a road trip and start a travel blog. That could be fun, too.
Y’all need to do whatever is best for you all. I’ll be happy as long as I know you all are still alive and as healthy and happy as you can be! I would, however, greatly appreciate cute animal pictures, if you want to share about your furry family members! I’ll probably keep buying everything you all publish as soon as I can order them, so no worries there!
This is a very healthy approach and I respect you guys for taking it! Good for you! You are my favorite authors and it’s great to see a solid work/ life balance!
Eh, I may WANT, but obnoxiously pushing is something I try to avoid. I love your writing style and story telling skiils. But as much as I am sitting there hungering for your next offering, i do not want you burnt out and exhausted.
You guys do what you need to do and if some readers go off in a snit because there was “too much time” until your release of the next installment of their favorite story line… their loss. The only time it took so long between installments that i moved on was when one author took a a decade. I do not see that happening with you, but if it did readers just need to learn to deal with it. Nagging will just make it harder for you to want to write and i hope peeps stop.
Good for you! Respect!
Still, you should know this probably won’t change our bad whiny selves at all. Want, want, want … but maybe more quietly.
Boundaries are essential to mental health and balance in life. You have given us so much with all the worlds you have created over the years. And you have gone above and beyond with this blog in these difficult times.
At the very least, you owe it to yourselves to be able to enjoy the success you have achieved. Do what works best for yourselves and your creative process.
It will be fascinating to see where this new chapter leads.
100% Support & Hugs.
Sounds like a plan to me!!! It will be such a nice surprise when something new pops up too!
Completely understand your choice and it sounds like a very good plan. I know my opinion will not move any mountans but just wanted to wave my support from the sidelines.
As someone who is anxious on a daily basis from continuous deadlines from my job (which is just plain old financial statistics and banking and not even creative) I can so relate to your anxiety dreams – and at some point there is just the refrain “I am to old for this shit”.
More power to you. I am always happy to read what you write, and even more so when I know it has been a good experience for you to write as well.
*lol* I’m coming here almost each morning looking what my favourite Authors are up to, thinking “oh, they had no time to update” or “wow, look what they did”, expecting nothing specific.
Now I suddenly HAVE to know what will be next. Curse my little brain for being so defiant.
Go you, whatever you do, it’s the right thing!
Congratulations!!
It seems like you’ve been itching to post this news for awhile. What an amazing feeling it must be to meet such a huge personal goal! Thank you for sharing your journey, and
thank you for your continued efforts on your fans’ behalf!
Ooh, this is such a good idea! I love the element of surprise and as I enjoy all of the worlds HA builds I’m sure I will just be glad to have something to read!
Thanks so much for letting us know and for taking care of yourselves! That is what is most important because without you guys there are no books.
I love this. I will admit as an avid IA reader, I avoided some series because I just didn’t feel a click with the cover or premise. After reading everything though, I am hard pressed to find a favourite series. Plots and stories that evolve from imagination blossoming are always better to read, so I don’t care whatever comes out next. I will be on that pre-order list whenever it comes up. In the meantime, I will re-read the amazing catalogue of work already available ????
I normally limit comments to gratitude, simply because I don’t want to add to the pressure as you have spoken on the weight of our expectations etc before. I just wanted to say, I love your work. Do whatever it takes to make the creative process even a little smoother for yourselves and a big ‘up yours’ to those who think you are text machines. I hope all else is well on House Andrews. ????
I am glad that you are in a position to be able to do this for yourselves, please take care!
And surprise books are awesome, like that preorder you forgot about because it was six months ago and suddenly you have an email in the morning and it is a little like Christmas as a child…
Oi, it was like an hammer in the head.
We finished our first book and weighed the pros and cons to find an agent and go for traditional publishing.
… and our favourite author goes for self-publishing.
What you wrote hit too close to what we fear, so it is time to rethink the approach.
Hi Olga,
Congratulations on finishing your first book! That’s amazing!
Whilst never prescriptive about the process, House Andrews have expanded on the importance of going through the traditional publishing machine, what they have learned from it and how it serves beginners here https://ilona-andrews.com/2019/should-you-have-a-webpage/ and here https://ilona-andrews.com/2019/hybrid-authors/
And they have always talked about the importance of the author/agent relationship.
I wish you lots of luck, whichever path you may chose!
Sounds good to me. Life is for living, not being dictated to by others. We will just wait and be happy when the books arrive.????
I will love anything you write. Take care of yourselves first. That’s what is important
I’m always excited to read anything you guys write. Glad you’ve reached a point where you can work at your own pace instead of a publishing company pushing to write more, faster. I will always be excited to hear any news about anything new coming out, but you are one of something like 3 authors that I auto buy whatever you publish. I trust you guys and I hope you’re able to enjoy life more now.
Do everything that’ll make you feel comfortable about writing, it’ll make your writing so much better 🙂
If you want a song about your mood : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hnI7yhIWGY
Great life plan!! it makes perfect sense and will in fact help everyone.
If there is no schedule, you’re not stressed and we’re not waiting at the refresh button like crazy, which in fact creates more negative energy than anything else.
It will come up when it comes up.
I just hope you continue to post some things (snippet, life, etc..) because even your grocery list is engrossing.
hearts hearts hearts
Yes, nothing else will change, the Horde is beloved and we will still get blog posts, serials and snippet treats <3
I’m here for when you’re ready to release something new! You’ve got me as a reader for life. <3
Side note: Ilona- what's in the brewer/pot/thing? Knowing you, I'm assuming some type of tea… but it just looks odd to me. I'd appreciate some insight into the yummy drinks! 🙂
What an awesome idea! I love surprises! I’m very happy this is working for you both. You absolutely deserve it!
I hope you have fun every day!! ????
yes!
Thank tou for sharing as always,
Fully understand,
Take care, we love you ~~~
Oh, no more deleted snippets? I will miss that. But I am looking forward to your surprise books.
Hey Denise, there will still be snippets! And serials and all the usual treats and blog content!
The only difference is that work schedules won’t be announced in advance and release dates will be made public only when the pre-orders are ready for launch ☺️.
Hope this helps!
I want you to work on what makes you happy and fulfilled.
We will read whatever you want to write! I hope the new way of writing brings you less stress and more happiness.
You got this! It will be lovely to get surprise books. Everything you write is fantastic, so this frees you to follow your creativity. I can’t wait!
What works best for you, works best for us. Take a breather, we’ll wait.
Very glad you have the opportunity to work the way you want – truly glad. A happy author may be the best author!
Looking forward to whenever you are ready to share.
I know my audience will never be even nearly as large as yours. But when I read what you have to go through for each book, I decide I can live with that. I do love your books and count you as a favorite author, so I’m glad you can put up with the pressure, but wow. Looking forward to your selfies, as I call them!
YES !!!! Do this, make your selves happy and we will be thrilled with whatever you decide to share with us. I have waited years for other authors to drop book 3 then 4 and then 10 years until book five. Guess what; I still bought the book!
try new genre, we will buy it!
good for you.
A member of the BDH
I’ve got a quiet smirk of joy about surprise books coming in my future. Thank you for letting us know and I am so glad for you that you’ve taken steps to never have that anxiety dream again (it sounds terrible and I wouldn’t wish that on anyone).
You do you. Readers will wait.
Can we call you Ilgo? GorIl? You’ve gotta come up with a single name so we can rave about your newest drop like Bey!
Y’all do what is best for YOU. I’m still gonna read everything you put out, because, epic stories.
This makes total sense. And is good.
I’m glad you found a less stressful way to do this. I view anything you write and publish as a gift and I’m just grateful!
Enjoy your art because if you’re not, then it’s not worth it anymore.
Thanks,
Teresa Young
also an artist;-)
????????????
Three cheers for happy writers! We’ll love you whatever your production schedule. +1 for all the people who reread their favorites again when they’re jonesing for another book, and let you get on with the business of being brilliant. My KD trivia is pretty sharp at this point. 😀
1 day to Friday and Innkeeper!
I love you guys and I am awed at the care you are taking of yourselves. It is a brave and wonderful thing to advocate for what you need. Thank you.
Thank you both for the joy! You all write it and I will buy it (twice)!
Thank you for taking care of yourselves!
For some, more stress = better product. For others, less stress = better product. Only you (plural) know which is best for you. Thanks for sharing your creativity and talents!
Mod R, is this a result of the new project that was submitted?
Thanks for keeping us straight!
This has been a long time coming and not related to any particular project ????.
I look forward to reading your writing whenever you are ready to release it!
I am so happy to see this post! I can hardly bear to visit your blog sometimes because the clamoring of the BDH is so stressful and I’m thousands of miles away and living in a different world! I don’t know how you handle the pressure.
Best wishes on maintaining your new boundaries. You got this!
Whatever you publish next I will happily read. Cheers to a less-stressful path forward!
How exciting! It will be like a surprise party even when it isn’t my birthday. I’m looking forward to whatever you give me.
It will always be fun for me- I hope it is fun for you. But just in case you get bored or feel you need some motivation, just give us the word and we will do our very best to whine and command you!????????????????
Only 25,000 look at the site daily? Surely she missed adding a zero or two???
25 000 every day but the monthly count of unique visitors is considerably higher ????
Well done! ????
Yay for you!! I am looking forward to whatever is next and hope the process is all that you wish it to be.
Awesome. I love everything you do and I deeply want you to be mentally and physically well so you can love writing and not be crushed by it. If you were done tomorrow, sure I would be super-sad, but I know what is like to hate your job and to feel totally unfulfilled by it. I hope that doesn’t happen to you. Thanks for putting your health and family first.
As a customer service representative for a very large company, I completely and fully understand the “25,000 of you” comment. Furthermore, I will support you in whatever books you choose to write. You write it, I will purchase it and read it, whenever it comes out. I so enjoy your work and thank you for it.
YAY! You got this!
I like that you are doing it this way now. You’ve had to live your lives with other people’s boundaries! Now you do your boundaries! Just about all of us are great with it. Those that aren’t – focus on fixing your boundaries!
I support this. ????????
Good for you! I enjoy whatever you write whenever you write it.
GOOD!!!!! Sounds like being a well-loved author in this time of constant internet connectivity is like being a nursing mother of octuplets, with no help and no bottles. Glad you’ve worked out a way you can rest. (And all this reminds me of Louisa May Alcott writing about “Jo” dealing with fans finding her house. ????)
????????????
I LOVE IT!
Be like Beyoncé and just drop it when it’s completed. Above all, protect your process, your mental health, and your work/life balance!
Whatever you publish and whenever you do it. I am ready!!! Working for yourself is harder than working for anyone else so make it as easy as you can!!
Do want you got to do.
You’ve Got This.
You do, you really do.
The more you are at peace, the more you might write, the more I get to read.
I like a win/win.
Thank You
This sounds like a lot healthier way to handle the writing process and keep the spark that allows you to write viable. If you can let us know when something new is available, I’m good with that. ????
This makes perfect sense. And when the website and pre-order are updated it will feel like a present every time. I’m sure all of your fans have their favorites as do I, but honestly I don’t care what you chose to work on and what order things get published – anytime an Ilona Andrews book or novella comes out is a happy day for me. ???????????? Looking forward to our next surprise! P.S. thanks for doing the Clean Sweep series again in advance of the book, it’s a really nice treat! ????
If you transitioned into writing the blurb for the back of cereal boxes I’d buy them. Just let me know where and when to buy your writing, & I’ll be there. Thanks ????
Jana DeLeon, who writes the Miss Fortune Series, does exactly what you are describing. She writes two, sometimes three books a year in the series and you never know when it is coming out until it is posted. Her cover art is spectacular and fun, and she self publishes. Her prices are reasonable, as are yours, and I usually buy the kindle and the book because of that. As I do with you. It sounds like you have found the right path for yourselves.
Good luck with your new adventure, and I hope it is less stressful for both of you. I will be hounding the Amazon website when I think something new is coming out from you, as I do with Jana DeLeon. I’m retired so it gives me something to do. Hah. And it’s fun. Peace and blessings to House Andrews.
???? You Got This ????
Love it! Happy for you both and I love surprises so whatever, whenever is going to be fun.
Sounds like a healthy, positive choice for you both! The BDH will love what you publish and happily pay for whatever you choose to do. I really hope we aren’t too fickle – and if one or even a dozen whine, you should ignore us.
Whatever, just so long as you keep writing. Nom nom nom.
I didn’t realize writers had “deadline “ dreams, but it makes sense. I’m a retired teacher. Ask any teacher who has been in the classroom for a few years about “teacher” dreams. They’re usually something along the lines of being locked out of the building and you know the class is already in the classroom. I’ve been retired 8 years now, and I still occasionally will have a “teacher” dream. Take as much time as you need to write your book. I’ll happily buy it when you are ready.
I can’t wait to read whatever you want to write. I am never disappointed in the experience of reading (or re-reading) one of your books.
Good for you both. I admire your willingness to take control of your life in a field that tries to control your every minute. I don’t know how you’ve made it this long without ending up at Betty Ford’s Clinic (assuming it still exists).
Freedom and self-direction are priceless. Your fans will scream and moan but will eagerly buy your work when it’s released. Because we love your work.
Yay less stress and more autonomy! I’m all for the surprise book drops!
I support this entirely! I know a lot of your readers will want to know everything (and at times I might be one of them), but I think the world needs more people like you who know what you need for your mental and physical health and go after it without worrying over outside sources of stress. I’ll be happy for whatever golden nuggets you choose to share with us!
Sounds fine to me. I fail to see a need to add to anyone’s daily stress. I can quietly expire from curiosity, hehe. Besides you have this truly delightful novel/novella coming out weekly. By the way, should you need to delay that at some point, please don’t stress over it. S..t happens and priorities get shuffled in all our lives.
I’m so happy for you that you can self publish and avoid having so little say in your own work. Go for it!
Thank you. We appreciate you. Living with deadlines hanging over your head and with everyone giving their opinion is no sustainable way to live. So I’ll be waiting patiently for the next preorder to be up ????. Hugs
Yay! I am so glad you are taking care of yourselves. That means you will be writing for longer without the burn out. So — more for me :).
No matter what you write, I will always enjoy it. Always.
Cool. A surprise treat for us whenever works best for you, less stress for everyone. ::thumbs up::
Your are endlessly wise to keep the BDH far from your decision making, of course. We are a mindless hoard, intent only on hoarding our favorite books. Not known for making decisions at all, really.
I look forward to the next wonderful world you imagine with great excitement!
Adding one more “I fully support this and whatever other steps you two need to take to look after yourselves and have the life you want” sentiment to the pile.
Yay!!! Like it! Looking forward to whatever you write whenever it is ready to be published.
I applaud your honesty and the need to reduce stress and take back control over your work. Hope that reducing stress allows you to enjoy life more and keep the fun in your writing. Your true fans will understand and support you.
Enjoy this time and really mess your fans up by “drop” releasing under a different name: Author Katenka Daniels?
Thanks for that insight. I appreciate what you write and when you are able to share it with us readers. Again Thank You!
Autonomy. 😀
You guys are always thoughtful to us, the BDH, whether we deserve it or not.
I hope this means you will be free of the “you have too many words and have to delete a bunch” non-sense now.
As much as I adore your books, I’m happy that you are going forward in a way that causes you less stress. Kudos to you for choosing a way v forward that works for you and yours.
Had a long comment all formulated but managed to delete it. Paraphrasing, sorry for lost bits which might come out wrong:
Thanks for the heads up and am very glad that you settled on a path that lets you work on whatever tickles your Creativity and have the power to choose your own cover design as well.
Hope this turns the giant waves of your dreams into gentle lapping ones with the occasional crest to add colour.
Having a ‘surprise book’will be released’ announcement plus preorder link sounds perfect and is always appreciated since it means a delicious book is somewhere on the horizon for us.
I’m so excited that you all can take the pace you need! And it brings such joy to know that there will be *suddenly books* (at a pace that is kind to you both)!
May it be a joy to do, and the process be kind and lovely! Looking forward to whatever you all choose to write next. : )
Whatever works you guys – am not worried & will look forward to whatever & whenever you decide to release. Chill where you can
Yay! So glad for you both! I hope you all have a chance to relax and just be.
Congrats on putting yourselves first. Now you can follow your creative flow wherever it takes you. Who knows what back of your mind ideas will creep out. If that snippet that the publisher didn’t like is any indication the back of your mind ideas are delightful.
I just wanted to tell you you I stayed up all night reading the innkeeper series. Your trail of crumbs in the newsletter enticed me, and I gave the series a second chance, starting with book 1 that I’d read on release.
And I’m indulging myself. It resonates for me this time. Happens that way sometimes.
I’m happy to read whatever you write, whenever you choose.
Thank you for sharing your worlds with us.
I have just printed your list of writing, books and free stories. My intent is to check and see which I am missing and order those from my local independent bookstore. I will reread all while I wait for your newest book. You are in the top five of my favorite authors. That list has changed over fifty years. I have a collection of over 2000 paperback books dating back to the 1930ies.I can wait. Every good wish for continued success.
Yous rock, and you’se my favorite and I everything yous post and publish is awesome. True Fact.
Hallelujah, woman, you got this! The details are different, but it’s exactly why I (and SO MANY other artists in one medium or another) no longer take commissions. Yes, we like our work to be appreciated, yes, we like it to sell, but, manifesting a book or a painting or a song from nothing more than a spark, an idea, a yearning cannot be done on a schedule. The creative flow, the spark of inspiration, the process of bringing it from the stew of nerve impulses and brain chemistry, into actually existing in the physical world, is delicate, complex, and MUST BE CHALLENGING or it’s no fun for the maker. We have to have the space to challenge ourselves each time, because we’ve already done that other one, we know how, we know the details, we conquered that one, we need the self-challenge of the next to feel our creative powers flex. We can’t do it on someone else’s timeline. I applaud you, and I’m so happy for you that you are strong enough to give yourself the time and space to create something you love and feel deeply deeply satisfied with. We already love the books you do on time-crunch deadlines …. I’m so exciting to think about the books you’ll create with time to make them perfect in your mind. Go for it !
Good for you. Sorry it’s come to that. Sometimes I just want to tell all the complainers “this is why we can’t have nice things”.
Glad for you. Will look forward to whatever you write when it is ready.
This is very reasonable
Its a great idea and should eliminate a lot of pressure
Good for you!
If you enjoy the writing process, you write more, I get more of your stories. You happy = me happy, so win/win!
Just dropping by to tell you that at least I am always gonna be happy if you’re working on something, undepending on whatever it is. And I’m sure a whole lot of other people love all your work as well and are gonna be happy about a book coming out, be it their favourite series or not. Most of us read all your books anyway and love them all, don’t we?! 😀
That being said, I get that there will probably more positive and far less negative comments about this unannounced book coming out, when you’re just dropping it on us than telling us before.
So, I’m a bit sad that I don’t get to know what your working on, because I would definitly get excited. But as I said, I would love everything you’re writing anyway, so I guess it doesn’t matter and I can just be happy that you’re writing just something. And doing it in your own time and schedule and working on a project you love and decided on yourself will hopefully bring the fun back to writing for you, which is most important. So cheers to that, and thanks for the update! 😀
I love whatever you guys do and will accept whatever you guys choose to give us and whenever you choose to give it. Does that make me a kiss ass? If so then so be it. I just enjoy everything that you guys put out so it doesn’t matter to me which series that comes from. I just appreciate you guys sharing your gift with us and all the hard work that you put into it. So thank you from the bottom of my heart for making me incredibly happy every time you release something.
I lIke to buy your hard copy books even though I read e books. Your self published books are a better quality than mass paperback. You go girl ( and guy)
Good for you. I am sure this new track will be better for you both all the way around. I look forward to the next surprise.
Best,
Marsha
I love and support this view… Go House Andrews!
You go, guys. You got this! Will stayed tuned–without whining or (copious) commenting–for any book dropped at any time by my favorite writing team. How could I not? Remember this deathless line: “Put down that cow, what did I tell you…”( This said in the tone and shout of every parent who has had to deal with a STUBBORNLY misbehaving child.) I do. And, while not the high notes of the reasons why I love your books, it always makes me laugh.
Which is especially invaluable at this moment in time. (Same war. Different century. The more things change..)
On an alternate note. Thank you for your posts on the business side of writing and publishing. As a novice writer–now rather bewilderingly (for me) working on a children’s book–it helps. Especially since I really don’t how the heck I came up with the idea for A Very Special (Former Vampire) Bunny. Not your genre–and not mine weirdly–but I the blame the humor in your books. A tiny bit.
Bonne chance. A tout le monde. From one of your Canadian fans (which explains the French).
I don’t care what you write! It will be amazing no matter what and I will buy it! 🙂 Thanks for all the wonderful stories. You guys are the best!
HAPPY EMPOWERMENT DAY!
You. Are. Awesome.
Totally fair and completely understandable. I am happy to read whatever you publish, whenever it is available. I appreciate all you do.
Most of the comments I see here are lovely, supportive, and reasonable – but I’m aware that Mod R works hard to make it so, and I’m sad that Ilona and Gordon feel the need to write posts like this. I think it should really go without saying that creative people make their art and then other people can chose to purchase the art and enjoy it and that’s it, that’s the transaction. You don’t buy some kind of share of a writer’s soul or rights to dictate to them just because you consider yourself their ‘customer’ after consuming their work. In order to prompt this, there must have been multiple people who’ve said things that were rude, and unkind, and entitled. Just why? Be chill fam, you’re making us all look bad.
On behalf of the entire BDH, I apologise.
So true! Well said.
I’ll read anything you guys write and be happy to get it. By all means, step off the stress treadmill.
I love surprises…. Woo-hoo!!
And I mean that sincerely. I cannot wait to see what pops up… ????
Best decision ever.
*claps hands*
I support you 100%.
I really like everything you’ve done so far and totally support this move. Most of the authors I follow/read have such long breaks between that I find myself re-reading series and discovering items missed on prior readings, which is awesome.
You are wonderful. You are valued. You generously share your gifts with the rest of us, making our lives more enjoyable.
No one is owed an explanation of why you’re doing what you’re doing, or when.
But, it was kind of you to take the time to explain it to us, anyway.
Speaking for myself, I’ll happily read whatever you make available, and be thankful for it. 🙂
Take care of yourselves. <3
That’s wonderful news, Ilona. It is so much better that you take care of yourselves and you will, No Doubt, be far more productive in the long run if you are leading a Happy, Healthy lifestyle. Whatever you want to write, It will be a worthwhile read, no matter what direction you pursue, because it will be filled with your intellect, wisdom, your sense of humor, and your great creativity.
So when is the next Inn Keepers Book coming out? KIDDING❣️
Cheers to you both ❣️????????❣️????❣️
Kudos to you! I love and own every one of your books, including the collector’s editions. I just re-read the entire series when I pre-order the next book so that I am ready for total immersion in that world…works for me. Thank you for your talents!!
I rather like surprises…and when they give my favorite authors the breathing room to be less stressed and take as much time as they choose and/or need to write, all the better! While I enjoy looking forward to new books, I am also fine with looking forward to these surprises. I know whatever you write (and no matter how long it takes), it will be amazing! ????
Good!
As a previously stressed book buyer I get a whole lot of this picture. The book biz is not rainbow unicorns.
I love your stuff, all of it, some more than others, sure. You go for it. I am glad you have reached a point where this is possible. Breath, knit, write, live.
Love and luck to all of you.
Y’all got this. I am willing to wait for what you will give us to read.Taking care of yourselves comes first so you can be around for a long time to write what you want.
Not that you need it, but you have my support. I have always been content to wait for whatever you choose to present and grateful for every book you’ve offered. Those who choose to harass you should be blocked, ignored and allowed to stew in their own toxic juices.
You both do whatever you need to, whenever you need to and I, for one, will be ecstatic to read whatever it is, whenever I get to buy it. Take care of yourselves and I hope you can relax. I haven’t read anything you have written that I didn’t love and I’m sure that goes for the future as well. Stay healthy!
Thank you for doing what is necessary for mental/physical/emotional health- we appreciate your leading by example.
My first experience of how little control over the end product an author has, was when one of my fav writers audio books were so poorly narrated with egregious mispronunciation of the Welsh names that it ruined the book. I railed in her blog that she didn’t work so hard to write such a great story just have it ruined by some hack that couldn’t be bothered to use google and get the proper pronunciation. The mod wrote back that the publisher decided who would be narrating it, etc. I was shocked, and if I was in her/your position, I would be self-publishing in a heartbeat.
Thank you for all that you do and share with us.
From just one of your readers: Write anything you want to at your own pace. I will read it eagerly. So many of us are just delighted when you share your writing. So don’t let grumpy people get you down. We love your work
Just breathe. You got this. Whatever you write, whenever you release – it is a gift. Thank you for being you.
I think that most of us realize that you are good people and we don’t want to add to your stress. At least, I hope this is true. Me, I am very sure that reading your grocery list would bring a smile to my face. It is kind of you to let us know your policy. I am hoping that the most stress you experience from now on is what color socks you should wear. Take care of yourselves.
Good for you. I love everything the two of you write (just re-read The Edge series and now re-reading Innkeepers), it’s all brilliant. You’re my comfort-escapist read in scary times. Anything that makes your creative path work for you is super green. Including pure down time and family time.
Traditional publishing sounds like a lot. I hope this will offer you guys lots of peace, joy, and rest. In the meantime, I will be excited and buy whatever comes out!
IMHO authors, and especially really good ones like you, are artists. Artists do their best work when they are free to create as they are led. They should not be bound by the expectations of others who do not have their creativity or their vision. It has always been rather objectionable to me that you must be bound by the deadlines of folks that don’t have the talent to create what you do. That being said, I am thrilled that you are finally setting your own destiny. As for myself, I will be happy to enjoy what you create for us when you offer it.
Atta gyrl
that’s the way you do this …!
you write em , I read em when you present them
Thank you, appreciate you …
rock on
I love this.
I’ve loved everything you’ve written. You don’t need our collective input on what we want first – because we want it all, anyway.
And what we’ll profit from most is, if HA takes care of themselves.
Your plan sounds awesomely sane and healthy. I like knowing that there are good surprises coming- I love everything you two write.
I’m glad you are creating boundaries so you can breathe and work in peace. Being ADHD I find myself working right up to deadlines and it’s stressful. I don’t like it. As a creative person with hyperfocus it is much more fun and freeing to delve into my project and come up for air when I need to. I make a lot of mistakes and have to “edit” a lot when I am working under pressure. It is usually good work in the end but it was painful to produce.
Also, I have no sense of time so every so often I check to see if you are bringing something out soon, preorder and wait for the email telling me it’s available. I will just relisten to your back catalog when I have a craving.
It’s been hard these last couple of decades, oops – years. I hate to think our greed is causing you more stress.
No is a beautiful word.
I waited five years for the next installment of one of my favorite series from a different author. During that time he released other books and ventured into other mediums. While I was disappointed that I had to wait it never occurred to me that I should complain to him or anyone else about it. It’s his world, his process, and his livelihood. It baffles me that people feel it’s appropriate to bitch to authors about anything. As you said, they’re not widgets. The sense of entitlement has taken over too many people.
do whatever makes you happy, what feels right. totally behind any decision you make – share as much or as little as you like. I do love your cooking posts tho, and when you talking about knitting, crafts, video games.
as Shakira would (likely) yodel: whenever, wherever – House Andrews forever
Hopefully this results in two things:
For House Andrews, longer, healthier lives
For the BDH, better books
And of course the BDH gets a freebie. If Ilona and Gordon live longer, there will be MORE BOOKS:-)
Live long and prosper, and I’ll be checking under the Christmas tree every single morning for a new present from HA.
Whatever you do, I hope it makes you happy 🙂 And when you publish something I’ll buy it.
Good for y’all! Well done! Magnificent!
Hope this decision is a stress reducer.
Waiting eagerly for whatever comes next.
Sheila
I’m glad you’re doing for you guys. EVERYONE deserves to have a less stressful life. I am just happy that you are going to continue to publish in whatever format works for you. Your books provide a wonderful escape from everyday life. Thank you for your awesome efforts to entertain us.
Love it!!!! Love knowing happy surprises are on the way. Love that the creativity will be unconstrained! Thanks for what you do!
Go you! I don’t care what you write or when it will be released I will read it. That’s not to say I don’t frequent your upcoming release page but that is just so I don’t miss any new awesome books ????. Do what you need to do to stay fresh and avoid burnout so we can continue to enjoy your AWESOMENESS!
I think this is a good move for you both. Keep on at your own pace, I will still be here waiting for notification you are ready to release a new work.
I think it is wonderful that you will be doing this, and removing the constant strain and stress of having a deadline hanging over your head!! I am just as eager as any other member of the BDH to get my hands on your next available work. I also have to admit that I have my favorites, and enjoy one series a bit more than another. However, I would not presume to nag at you to write something in one series instead of whatever else you planned on writing. I am glad that you put this out there, so no one can do that in the future (at least I sincerely hope no one even tries to!). I am also glad that you won’t have anyone nagging at you and asking when you will be finished with your next book. Even though most of that comes from the positive of someone being anxious to buy your next work, it would still drive me crazy!! ????
I think you are very patient and kind toward your readers, and I am very glad that you are putting some things in place that will save you both the stress of deadlines and unnecessary (and definitely unwelcome) nagging!! Creativity doesn’t happen on demand, so I don’t know why anyone would think that they could or should try to influence what you are going to write next.
I thank you for how kind and giving you are to your readers! I am glad that you will not be constrained by contracts, and will now have the freedom to work on what you want, at what pace you want. I think a lot of people don’t (or didn’t) realize that you didn’t already have that freedom, or without malice didn’t even think about it.
I hope that this takes a lot of stress away for both of you! And I hope that you can now give your creativity free reign, and that you get more joy than ever from your creations! I will be as delighted as ever to purchase whatever you write, whenever it is available. ????
I think that it is a great decision, your (mental / physical) health should be first. Besides, it’s YOUR work and you should have some power over it. Honestly, at this moment, I’m not interested in all of your books and I don’t have an urge to tell you so because you don’t care (I’m one in thousands) and I have plenty of other books to read, fortunately. But I can tell you that I enjoyed several of your sagas a lot and I understand that to create them it takes a lot of time. I suppose we are really spoiled nowadays with all this instant and massive content everywhere. Sometimes, it’s good to slow down and savour things 🙂
First: whatever you work on is going to be fun for us to read. Never worry about that.
Second: Being like Beyoncé is cool, but being yourself is better.
Third: We appreciate how much you do write on this blog & share. If you feel like surprises, that’s cool too. It’s not like it takes forever to get a sequel out, I’m looking at you George R.R. Martin!
This should be a no stress zone, but I truly appreciate how much you care.
Seems reasonable to me. Writing is an art. Good writing means the final editing will be as close to your vision as you can get. Give us whatever you think is ready, when you think it’s ready. We’ll be happy. You won’t be as exhausted. Fair trade. If I could bring you a truck of $$$$$, I’d take a little off the top to build more bookcases and fling the rest at you.
I love your books. But, whatever you need to do, to preserve yourselves, your relationship, your family, you do that. If you never publish another word and and are fulfilled writing for pleasure, then do that.
Your fabulous stories are out there, to be discovered and loved, rediscovered and loved all over again.
Big business can take the joy out of the best of work and the most decent people. Even when it’s trying to be supportive.
For everything you’ve written, a heartfelt ‘thank you’.
Sounds like a great plan to take care of yourselves! Can’t wait to be happily surprised as to what book is next!
Woof! I read lots of stress in your post and I’m sorry y’all are going through that. Sounds like you’ve found a reasonable solution. I grew up with parents who never told my grandparents when we were going out of town until the last minute to avoid those “I’m SO sick and you have to stay home” conversations. So I get it. It is a given we all want you to write faster, but we also don’t want y’all to burn out. So take that as a badge of honor for a job well done and carry on.
Yes! Seize the day! We will continue to buy your stories in whatever form they are made available. I love your work. As evidenced by this real-time blog, AI’s writing is amazingly polished right out of the gate, needing only quick proofing for typos and grammar/punctuation errors and earnest editorial efforts to reign in the occasional cliché. Despite my dislike of romantic angst and high-maintenance alpha males, IA’s ability to consistently deliver great world building, compelling stories, outstanding supporting characters and familial interaction in tales where warmth, humor, courage, and competence prevail puts them at the top of my list of favorite authors. The Innkeeper series is my favorite comfort read. Full disclosure: I was able to read only one of the Edge books. Having lived near a swamp in the ’80s (cottonmouths snoozing on the front door mat! a nest of black widows behind the toilet tank!), I was too creeped out to read to read any of the others, thus illustrating the effectiveness of IA narrative ability.
My goodness, that sounds like a completely sane way forward. You are also setting a good example. Wishing House Andrews the happiest, most fulfilling and interesting ongoing writing and creative endeavors. We’ll be here.
Absolutely fair. Balance in life is important and I can imagine that your work and output will only improve when you’re happy, rested and minimising unnecessary stress.
I’m glad to know I’m not the only one who has the tsumani dream
Thumbs up! I love or really, really love everything you write and am happy to have any of it anytime.
I totally support this stance. When House Andrews is happy they give us lots of gifts – we of the BDH love the literary gifts from HA. ❤
Thank you! You GO guys.
Good for both of you. I, among so many of your fans will await your next creative work. Good luck!!
On another note, I’m thinking about taking up knitting again just so I can make myself one of these (because apparently I’m just not busy enough yet) So many patterns I haven’t picked one yet. Google “pocket shawl”
Ugh!!! Both.
Good for you!
Bravo and thank you for having a vagina and not giving in to pressure. I support and encourage y’all even more. Enter the Betty White saying re being able to take a pounding an keep going.
Your work is my comfort, and I consider your characters friends. I like it when my friends stand up for themselves, even to me.
Respect.
MEGA congratulations and MASSIVE good luck wishes on fully entering self-publishing. I hope working on your own schedule without formal deadlines will ease your stress and anxiety as well as help you more routinely enjoy the writing process again.
Whatever you choose to do in the future, we will LOVE.
I hope you enjoy creating it.
Good on you both. It shouldn’t be a chore or cause you nightmares. Hopefully your health will also improve with you having more control. I doubt you’ll have any problems selling your self published books. I’m hopeful of a return to wonderfully imaginative narrative without it being bogged down in long series.
This is an excellent plan. You should be able to do everything in your power to destress your writing and publishing process. I appreciate all that you’ve shared with us and look forward to your future “drops”. Thanks, truly for all you do.
Love the image of you guys being the Beyonce of publishing, dropping books without notice, lol. You go Slay!
I for one have never had a problem with your work. It’s all great to me! That said, I hope self-publishing works out for you. I look forward to the future surprise goodies and thank you for always bringing a bright spot into my life with your stories. Good luck!????????????????
I’m so excited that you’re working on something and it’s not on a terrible anxiety-causing deadline. I trust you and love what you write, so when it’s finally available for preorder, that will be cause for celebration. ❤️
Love to read all your stuff, including your blog ????????. (Not to say I don’t WISH for certain books ????.)
I don’t blame you. Do what is right for you and family. You can’t please all the people all the time. Happy thoughts and well wishes to you ❤.
Sounds like a solid plan. I look forward to all the things.
I look forward to whatever you write! I have no doubt that the reduction in pressure will result in something wonderful and look forward to seeing what it is. Can’t wait to be surprised and intrigued. Write on! (Pun definitely intended)
This is a slightly late comment on the shawl problem. I wasn’t able to get to my computer until today, sorry.
Have you considered checking out some of the vintage and antique knitting patterns? The shawls from the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s are beautiful. I think your local library would probably be able to get you copies of the magazines. You’d have to Xerox the patterns, but that wouldn’t be a problem, I don’t think. I have a couple of vintage pattern magazines (Grandmama was a packrat, bless her heart, and I got all of the knitting, crocheting and quilting magazines she still had.) And I’ve made 2 of the shawls and they were really beautiful with some of the modern threads.
That sounds splendid, House Andrews. Wishing a breath for you and for us all.
Good for you. Love your work. Having worked at various times as writer, editor & small trade publisher—you nailed the descriptions! If you can make a living writing & reduce stress & deadline, rock on!!! I’ll appreciate whatever pops up when it pops up, like a delightful but unanticipated present.
whatever works best for house andrews , hope this works better for you 🙂
You go girl
Kick some publishing booty
Thank you for being such excellent role models of self-care and boundary setting. Stay well.
As your coffee mug says: You got this.
Thank you for the years of writing and learning and sharing. I think if the last 2 years have taught us anything… it is we all need to take a step back. I don’t want to get off track … oh boy… stop those thoughts and just say THANK YOU.
I will still be a lifetime reader of your wonderful stories and will go back and re-read them because they take away the troubles of the day for me.
I will buy what you write when you write it. You folks are terrifically talented and no matter what world it happens in, or what or how it is published, always brings a smile to my face. I have been reading your pages for over a decade and remember my first Kate books and was like…more please.
I would say to the publishing world it is about the writers and stories they tell silly.
Nuff said..
Thank you for the update. I still look forward to posts with preorder or order infomation. I love the way you and Gordon write and I am looking forward to WHATEVER you release.
The Author insights, trials and tribulations will be missed but it is understandable and probably the reason it is quite rare to see in my experience. Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss) had the same feeling about writing under contractual deadlines. Not sure how that worked but and it may of been more a philosophical issue with him.
None of that will be missed, because it won’t stop ???? https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/on-follow-up-questions-unexpected-nature-of/
Nothing is changing, other than the announcements for the new projects. There will still be a blog, snippets, serials etc
While I love the anticipation and build up for when I know your next book is coming. (I never care which one I love them all.) I fully support your need to protect your mental well being and creative process. I would much rather see changes to how you publish and interact with us, the BDH, than take the risk of getting so burnt out on the process that you stop publishing altogether. And thank you for giving us the gift of your stories.
Good for you.
It feels like a proper retirement. Retirement from all accumulated grievances into a life that you can relax into and supported by the BDH (ever faithful and expanding may we be).
This is an life-changing excellent idea. You must take very good care of yourselves (and because we are shamelessly selfish) for us!
🙂
If the military taught me anything it was to impatiently wait. So yes, *taping fingers together* I shall wait for the glory of your house to appease my reader gluttony.
Good for you, I love suprises and if it destresses your life then, you go guys!!
Thanks for all the lovely evenings reading you have provided.
Just like any author I read, I’m always excited to see a new book. Whenever it shows up.
Great! I will obviously read whatever you publish whenever it’s available.
I can’t even comprehend the stress involved in being a successful author.
Congratulations on the masters of your fate. Hugs
You go girl!
Love the sentiment, but also secretly hope that you will still share snippets with us from time to time…
Yes, no worries, it was all clarified in the next post https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/on-follow-up-questions-unexpected-nature-of/
The snippets, serials, treats, blog posts and pet pictures will continue, House Andrews aren’t going anywhere 🙂
You should do what is best for you! I’m a dedicated fan, I’ll wait 😉
Good for you! Less stress and I always believe the best of work. I think that is what has kept me back from submitting anything because I know me. The minute someone tries to make me into something I’m not and control me I balk and will become the proverbial B!atch. Self publishing sounds better and better I just need to get off my arse. Thank you, I for one appreciate what you do and it’s brought me many happy evenings reading or listening my stress away. Look forward to seeing you guys again, miss your book tours
Love you guys and wholly support you doing this. Thanks for writing things we love.
Works for me and I truly enjoy the snippets and I think you will find most of us, super supportive. Love your ✍️ ????????
I admittedly didn’t read the 490+ comments so forgive me if this has already been said.
that ::insert smiley face:: kind of put me in the mind of Kate’s smile, thinking about visiting that realtor…
Good for you! The customer is not always right, the customer is always whiny.
i will happily read anything you publish whenever you publish it. i don’t need to know months in advance of a release date. and i’m all for reducing stress!!!
Everything I’ve read that you have written, I have enjoyed. It seems fair that you enjoy it as well. So thanks. Have at it. I’ll still be here when it’s ready.
Congratulations on getting to this point in the journey. The BDH supports you.
You go House Andrews!! I don’t care what you write I love everything!!
I’m unhappy because I don’t have a new book to read. Don’t care which series just new. But I will live and go reread the KD series. ????
I’m so happy you’re in a position where you can take a break from some of the pressure, work at your own pace, and not have to deal with deadlines.
And I personally think it will be so much fun to be surprised by what story you’re releasing ????????♀️ I had a ton of fun wondering what the secret project was. A little mystery made me happy. While I do have favorite series, I’ve loved all of them.
And I love how you drop hints from one story/series in others – like how you mentioned the Alphas in one of the Edge books, and now that the Edge series is finished some of its characters are in the Innkeeper series.
And honestly, the only reason I know when your books are releasing is because I read your blog ???? I preorder books from my favorite authors as soon as Amazon says the preorder links are up (I get emails telling me there are upcoming releases from the authors I follow) and am happily surprised when books appear.
I just want to say I completely support this decision. I hope it makes the process more enjoyable for you both. Whenever you have something you’re ready to show us I’m confident I will be there to buy it.
You are wonderful, lovely, amazing writers, and I hope switching to this method gives you the rest and space you need to shut out all the noise and the deadlines and the demanding people! Thank you for sharing such wonderful creative efforts with us. 🙂
????
Y’all you’d do whatever y’all need to do to be happy and fulfilled in your lives and your career. Ima be over here quietly rereading your books until y’all release something else wonderful and I will add that book to my favorites list along with everything else y’all have written. Seriously, I’m so glad you choose to share so much of yourselves with the world.
Good for you.
I have no doubt you appreciate your audience; the fact that you treat us so well makes it obvious. However, we would be absolute pains in the butts as bosses.
I firmly believe that all of us are best served by happy authors. ❤️
Good luck!
100% got your back, just grateful you write your books. No pressure from me. I re-read and quietly wait. Love your work.
I love all of the projects you work on, so I’m never disappointed by one thing or another being worked on. That said, it’s probably best to not reveal release dates partially so people won’t harass you to work on something else but also so that you guys have wiggle room if life interrupts your deadlines.
My new “Ilona’s teapot” has just become my favourite thing.
Thanks a million for a truly brilliant recommendation!
I’m not sure if anyone has asked before, because reading 513 comments is a bit much.
What about your publications in foreign languages? Will they still be available through traditional publishers, or will you do it yourself, or maybe not at all?
Translating the books myself is a bit tedious, even if I do it partially, because some are unfortunately not yet announced in German.
If you look on Amazon, you will see German Innkeeper. 🙂 So self published books can definitely be translated. Our French publisher purchased rights to Iron and Magic and did a great job with it.
Thank you, good to know. I have the first 3. But 4 and 5 are missing. I translated them by myself, but i really would love to have a printed book in my shelf. 😉
Hey Swampcow ????,
Whether self or traditionally published, House Andrews and their U.S. publishers do not control the availability of the books in other countries.
Only your local publishers and retailers control that ????.
If you would like to continue to read the books in your language/your country, please email the local publisher who published the previous works, or one who deals with fiction similar to IA and let them know you would like to read on your terms. House Andrews are very happy to sell foreign rights to other countries and have the books be available as widely as possible.
Thx a lot. I will write them! 🙂
Go House Andrews! That sounds perfect. As long as I get books, I’m good. This way, I will not be tempted to lift the lid on the pot and interfere with your work. You know where to find us if you perhaps decide an outside opinion will be of use. I don’t recommend it, but you do you and we will try to be helpful while not stepping on toes. It is a relief to know what to expect, and that you are taking good care of yourself. I wish more of my favorite authors could do the same.
Our big project has morphed into a textbook series (60 chapters and counting), so the cachet of a name publisher may help (though we will self-publish it too if we have to). The math textbook / UFO kids story along with the various and sundry fictions are open to self-publishing or other publishing. As part of our motivation is avoiding other people bossing us around, we have (I think) a deep understanding of why House Andrews has chosen their current path. So more power to you, and we will happily devour whatever books you choose to deliver whenever you choose to.
I am glad you both are taking care of yourselves.
That’s a great idea, I really hope it brings the enjoyment of writing back to you. ????
While I would love to see my favorite side character get their own book RSN, I recognize that some of my favorite books came completely out of left field. I fully support your new approach, especially if it makes writing more fun. When work is fun, and you set the pace, life is much more fulfilling. I’m glad you can make this work. And I love Gertrude Hunt, at whatever pace her story moves.
I check your blog because I enjoy your insight into the writing process and the ways that you engage with the community! I love seeing the amount of thought and dedication you put into the work. Honestly in a lot of ways it makes the stories mean that much to me reading them. I am excited for when the next things come, but I can wait patiently until they are ready. Thanks for all the stories so far and I look forward to seeing what comes next especially without a publisher breathing down your neck.
I will read whatever you decide is next. I enjoy the journey. I have my favorites of yours, of course, but I like everything and always look forward to something new to read.
It sounds like you have finally found a way to enjoy what you do more. Who can fault that?
Good luck!