First things first, Jessie Mihalik’s new book is out.
Interplanetary intrigue and romance combine in this electrifying finale to the Consortium Rebellion series.
As the youngest member of her High House, Catarina von Hasenberg is used to being underestimated, but her youth and flighty, bubbly personality mask a clever mind and stubborn determination. Her enemies, blind to her true strength, do not suspect that Cat is a spy—which makes her the perfect candidate to go undercover at a rival House’s summer retreat to gather intelligence on their recent treachery.
Cat’s overprotective older sister reluctantly agrees, but on one condition: Cat cannot go alone. Alexander Sterling, a quiet, gorgeous bodyguard, will accompany her, posing as her lover. After Cat tries, and fails, to ditch Alex, she grudgingly agrees, confident in her ability to manage him. After all, she’s never found a person she can’t manipulate.
But Alex proves more difficult—and more desirable—than Cat anticipated. When she’s attacked and nearly killed, she and Alex are forced to work together to figure out how deep the treason goes. With rumors of widespread assaults on Serenity raging, communications down, and the rest of her family trapped off-planet, Catarina must persuade Alex to return to Earth to expose the truth and finish this deadly battle once and for all.
But Cat can’t explain why she’s the perfect person to infiltrate hostile territory without revealing secrets she’d rather keep buried. . . .
Buy links and more at Jessie’s website, https://www.jessiemihalik.com/.
I like Jessie’s work, so if you are like me and you’ve been waiting for something new and awesome to give you a mental break, check it out.
We are working on Ryder full speed and you should have a large chunk coming to you this week. Gordon still wants to tweak it, otherwise it would have gone out today. We have picked the series and title, but we can’t tell you yet.
Since Kid 2 is moving to Austin, we have taken back our office and are having it renovated, since it badly needed it after it flooded last year. Now it has a new floor and the bookcases are arriving today, which means Gordon and I will need to get out the screw drivers and allen wrenches. I am very relieved to have the office back. I really need separation of working and leisure space, because otherwise I spent 95% of my awake time in one room.
Part of the renovations involve extending the bathroom. The office shares a wall with a garage and since the garage apartment is small, the hook up for laundry and extra bathroom is located int he garage. The bathroom was in an awful shape, but it’s getting steadily prettier. Office with the bathroom. Oooo, sparkles.
I am desperately trying to be entertaining here, but I’ve got nothing. All I’ve been doing in the past week is work and chores. It’s this weird phenomenon where I have a long to do list and I keep knocking things off, but it’s not getting shorter, because new things keep piling up.
The latest thing is to find an artist who can do some art for the website. The redesign is underway, and I need headers. All the headers. I found this one guy on art station, emailed him a couple of times, and got no reply. I’m kind of dejected because his art was so pretty.
While we’re on the subject, look at this one: https://www.artstation.com/artwork/26K0g
Is this the Edge or what? I also liked this one.
I wish we could license something of this caliber. Anyway, work calls, have to go.
I love the artwork, definitely The Edge series. I’m pleased you came up with a name for Julie’s work because I was stumped. But I love the story and look forward to the next addition.
Yes!
OMG!! The artwork!The building in the forest is so close to how I picture The Edge while reading the series that it was almost eerie. WOW.
Your to do list and mine are contaminated with the same virus. Every time I check something off, 2 more grow in it’s place. A chimera virus, maybe? LOL
Hello!
I want to say it is a Doppleganger Virus or a Rabbit one 🙂 I love to game and play GuildWars2. I am truly a homebody and shut-in so life didn’t change much for me except wearing gloves and mask..everywhere! Needless to say, my list is also a OneNote version of Whack-A-Mole. One down, two more pop up! I thought *Work From Home!!* I will get to GAME!!! Nope, nope, nope….Stay strong House Andrews ~*fighting*~. You are very fortunate to have each other and your family. Some of us have to go it alone out here. I am very grateful that you both decided to work on Ryder. I always hoped we’d get to see more of Julie. Respectfully, D.
Excuse me but where did this gorgeous picture come from ?
How about Hydra Virus? Cut off 1 head and 2 replace it.
Not head, I mean chore.
I conquer! When I saw the house in the woods it is so evocative it brought forth a gasp, and a smile of recognition. How cool is that? What if you sent the artist, a copy of your books & s/he recognized the storyscape & begged you to be allowed to do the art….sysygy!
That was concur, not conquer, My iPhone thinks I need help with spelling!!
That first link is SO very Edge! Homes in the forest and all. I love it. I hope you can get a response from that artist or from one of similar quality.
You are always entertaining, even when you think your not! Glad you are getting your office back, and thrilled you are progressing on Ryder, tweak away!!
I like hearing about home redesign. Am I weird? ????????♀️
No.
I am absolutely addicted to home decoration shows. The latest Interior Designer show on Netflix is a Godsend. Imagining home improvements cannot be weird, they’re too fun.
The art work for both of them is outrageous. I’ve always admired people that can do stuff like this. Answering emails is critcal though. Hope you get a response. You may have already looked here but patreon.com is also an artist clearing house. There are so fantastic artists on there too.
Happy dance????, hope you have an electric screwdriver, it makes assembly so much easier!
Electric screwdrivers seem ridiculous until you use one and then they are the most awesome thing ever!
I rather like liquid screwdrivers…
+1
Bwahahahaha! Perfect!
I agree. And an impact wrench is very handy as well. One got here as part of a package deal, and then sat on the shelf until we saw someone else use theirs.
Wow.
Agreed! Though I’m still waiting for the invention of the sonic screwdriver.
Reading Chaos reigning just now!! Thanks again for suggesting the series.
Have fun with the screwdrivers!
Hope you have a wonderful day. Thank you for sharing. I am doing some painting etc and spring cleaning as well. I always seem to make a much bigger mess than it all cleans up pretty! I hope you all have a wonderful week!
I like both of those. I lean a little more to the first one I think just because I see a lot of color in your worlds and the first one has a bit of that without being too pretty and bright. Thanks for sharing with us!
I really like the first picture – definitely the Edge!
YES! That is SO The Edge! Great finds.
Thank you, I plan to read Jessie Mihalik’s book asap! The artwork (the first one) does seem like the Edge, but the second one makes me think of KD’s Atlanta.
+1
Ilona thanks for the tip on Jessie Mihalik, I’ve devoured all your books, some, several times. This was a welcome tip, She creates a good cohesive world with strong, kick-ass characters.
So excited that Julie is getting her moment to shine! While I’m not on Team Werewolf for her, I love the way she’s evolved through the series from naive, desperate child to taking on echoes of her mother Kate. Kate has always had a sort of insular, don’t want to get involved vibe from living her life hiding from Roland, and what we’ve seen thus far of Julie’s own philosophies is so interesting.
Don’t let others discourage you! I want this installment to happen so much 🙂
Omg!!! That first picture with the cowboy…. it put the edge in perfect clarity for me! Its like my imagination came to life!!! Amazing!!!!!
Thank you for all the work y’all do and you willingness to share with us.
I totally understand the need for separate work/home space when you work at home. Your brain just starts to malfunction otherwise. I hope the renovations go well! Take care of yourselves! =)
I spent a good portion of my weekend listening to The Hu. I can imagine Julie, Roman, his siblings and cousins rocking out to Wolf Totem. And for anyone who starts saying but their…(white, Russian, whatever) be aware that the golden horde ruled Russia and given that Chinnghas and his descendants spread themselves pretty widely, it isn’t inconceivable that Roman and Julie might have Mongolian DNA.
Ooooohh, the Hu! Everyone I play them for?to? starts swaying the body and stamping the feets. Thank you, Grace Draven.
I adore them, and spent months learning about Mongolia after hearing their first single. They are awesome.
OMG!! Just googled this band!! Listened to Wolf Totem – makes my heavy metal rock loving heart want to get up and dance!!
The forest is the Edge to a Tee! The second one is awesome because I imagined the teddy bear is the demon dog’s “baby” and the woman is going to toss it for him…lol.
Thank you for the author suggestion and update. I really appreciate your time and the attention you give us.
I’ve read Jessie Mihalik since you first recommended her, and I was so excited to have the preorder drop into my Kindle today. Thank you for sharing your fun reads!
+1
I’ve read all four of Jessie Mihalik’s other books, can’t wait to get to my Audible version of Chaos Reigning that I just downloaded. If you haven’t tried them yet, The Queen’s Gambit and The Queen’s Advantage were both very enjoyable too! Thanks for recommending her!
I’m excited to read her new book. I loved the first 2 in the series. ????
Congrats on getting a title and series title! Ooo… New Ryder this week! ????????????????
Yay to sparkly new bathroom and office! ????
way cool art sites! Wow, I hope you find the right person with the availability to go with it! I’m just glad to read a new post and enjoy your newly renovated space as it comes together. We have been waiting forreevvverr for the new loft bed with a desk for my 11-year-old. It’s to move her base of school at home operations to her room, rather than the kitchen table. Clutter is making me very tense these days! When cleaning, I found she had scrawled in very nice, neat cursive, “I hate school.” I just might frame that for the coronavirus time capsule. LOL. The furniture is delayed, the curtains lost in the mail somewhere… she wants a rainbow keyboard like (Grammarly wants that “like” to be an “as” hmm) you have posted in the past… so I have it bookmarked.
Work and housework is our routine too. I work a couple of days in the lab, other days “teleworking” but there is not really a lot of work for me to do at home…since it’s lab stuff. My state (Massachusetts) is starting “phase 1” of re-opening and I know some people are celebrating. I’m not there. I’m more apprehensive about what’s next.
Anyway! It’s a sunny day, I’ll take it! Thank you again for the writing and Ryder. I love it. I also started reading Magic Strikes again the other night. I was nostalgic for that earlier Kate and Curran dynamic that was so funny and full of tension. I bounce between IA and Jeanine Frost re-reads (Ian) during these pandemic times.
Ooh, like both artists’ work! I am with you on the work/life separation thing, my office looks alot like my dining toom table., go figure…Kids, dogs, cats, chaos. Can’t wait to see the new chunk, thanks as always for brightening my days!
Thank you so much for sharing! ???? I’m excited to see your updated office. I’ve taken to calling a bit of empty space behind our house my “future office” because I’d like to build a separate little building there, to get that work/play separation. Maybe someday. 🙂
Happy Book Birthday to you! I enjoyed the first 2 in the series and look forward to the 3rd. ????
Happy belated book birthday. 🙂 I finished reading Chaos Reigning. It’s a very good book. Nice way to end the series. Looking forward to your next series.
Thanks for posting anything. I find reading your blog very reassuring, even when it’s just about normal, everyday activities. I have the same problem with my to-do list. I am very task oriented, but I had to seek out counseling to manage anxiety. My to-do list was part of the problem because even when I accomplished a lot, the list never got smaller as I would find more and more to do. Now, I take twenty minutes in the morning to be mindful and think about what 3-5 things, I most want to accomplish in a day…and it’s not always work stuff. Sometimes my 3 things includes taking a walk or cooking something special, calling a friend or doing something around the house. I really have to think about what’s most important each day because I cannot do everything. At night, I take time to think over my day and reflect. I try to think of things that I was grateful for, remembering what I accomplished. Sometimes I think about tomorrow, but I try to just feel good about today. Honestly, it’s really hard, but I have “coaches” (and books) to help me. Keeping my “to-do” list achievable has helped the most in alleviating my anxiety.
Thanks for sharing this! I was just chatting with my sisters about the satisfaction of checking things off the list vs the never ending anchor of the list that drags me down. Sounds like a healthy approach.
Also excited for JM’s new book. Thanks for the introduction!
Separate space is so important for mental health & the post-remodel high can last a long time.
So happy there is also a SERIES title. Hooray. More Erra??
The one artist is working in the game industry, and those guys always have crazy long hours, sometimes 60+ hour work weeks, and the demand for games has been steady during the pandemic so they’re probably still working full steam ahead and have no bandwidth for extranneous projects. Some if not all of the work they post are usually tied to games and thus cant be licensed anyway as it belongs to the game company.
I think sadly, if you see anyone tied to a game company, you probably wont luck out. 🙁
Sadly, he may be sick. Any of us might be sick and thus unavailable at this time. Which is part of the crazy: everyone is Schrodinger’s Cat. (I do love the artwork, btw.)
Hi! I also love Jessie Mihalik’s book. Thank you for sharing.. ???? I hope everything is fine with the Andrew’s household.
Other than school stuffs, reading books on my extra time, im also finding myself painting and baking.
Keep safe!! And thanl you for being wonderful. ????????
You might try Lynne Hanson for the artist – https://www.facebook.com/lynnehansen?__tn__=%2CdC-R-R&eid=ARBACPlP86FRsL52BpMFfsxij8fIv_n8opzPDkz3WErga5ew6NHMnpAHqZiOo4_wTVDl93wBLF60vjYh&hc_ref=ARRYQaeGfORwUv6TgoI2mIBwtUSRYa_5U6wF8LS0UyD8XMDtL1nnsQpgXvSihiW4Osc&fref=nf
She’s pretty seriously amazing
I’m glad everything is going well for you guys. Just out of curiosity did you ever check out, L. G. Estrella’s Divine Assistants, or The Unconventional Hero’s series?
I would also recommend Karen Diem’s Arca series also. What with life being hard, and the stress of work. Some humour that may unintentionally cause injury. Would be good for you.????
Jenny Hawyard. She’s on Facebook as Jezhawk and in the web as http://www.jezhawk.com. She has recently worked with Kyle Gray, wick and fable and many more. She is ace. I think youd like her too..
Awesome! So glad the third book of hers is out. I have purchased the title and will dive in after work. I think you are always entertaining. I am glad you are getting your office back in order. I love that art you linked. So many possibilities. Anyway, thank you so much for this post.
Wow. You are so gifted. The vision you have is perfect. Again I say, of course!
I misread allen wrenches as “alien” . I was baffled for a second but then realised that DIY is an alien thing to me – so why not you?I
Ah, so looking forward to more Ryder. Actually, anything you write makes my day. Thanks for helping to make this stupid pandemic bearable.
*raises glass from England*
Thank you, Ilona Andrews for the post. The artwork was beautiful. The first was not my mental picture of the Edge but second was. Just my opinion. I thought of Singh PSy – changling series on the first. Shrug.
Glad you are getting your office back. Having an area dedicated to one function is important and in some cases necessary to me. For example, dining room table is for eating not grading papers every night for 175 students or working on taxes for 6 months. (So you eat in den in front of tv and now there is a vermin problem in that room that I have to take care of because you are incapable of returning dishes to kitchen. A lack of training on their Helicoptering parents part. I feel sorry for their future spouses). Sorry about the rant. Therefore, I completely understand your looking forward to kid 2 fledging and getting your work office “back”.
Thanks for Ryder.
The first thing that popped into my mind when I saw the last image was “Unicorn Lane.” The decrepit buildings and dreary atmosphere perfectly embodies what I’ve imagined it to look like.
I’m also trying to figure out where I can create a workspace in my house–it’s very limited in square footage, so I’ve been looking at small desks to consolidate space. Hopefully when my brother moves out, I can take his space for me own and create a lounge/office space (sorry, not sorry????).
I agree about the second pic- made me think of the Kate Daniels world in Atlanta.
Love that first pic for edge. Have you looked at Deviant Art?
Loving the book so very happy about progression.
I had business in house it can be pits in same room all time YUCK glad you will have office soon. Enjoy
I got “Chaos Reigning” on my e-reader last night at 11:01 and couldn’t resist “just a chapter or so…”
Finished it about 4:30 this morning (and did not want to feed cats when summoned this morning but of course I did. Nobody ignores two oversize cats and gets away with it. I even managed it before the toe licking started!)
It was a really fun book and I enjoyed the heck out of it. Thanks for telling us about Jesse. Her work is like yours – not so fast, but really well done.
I highly recommend the book, though reading the first two is helpful on the “Who’s this and why should I care?” front.
The entertainment quotient in this post is actually high. It doesn’t always need to be funny. (Though you do a really good job when it is.)
The remodeling sounds – um – necessary as well as pleasing. It’s never as easy or as fast as one hopes, but when you gotta do something, you gotta.
Love the artwork. It looks like the right kind for your work, past and present. Thank you for showing it to us. I hope we see more in the future.
Gordon tweaking things is almost always worth it in the long run. I will look forward to more Ryder as it it shows up.
You have no idea how much I appreciate it.
Stay safe, House Andrews, and have fun. (You know you want to…)
Got Chaos Reigning delivered on my iPad at 9pm (I’m in PDT time zone). Finished 2.30am. Now re-reading because I’m sure I missed some stuff in the wee hours ????.
I, too, like the artwork. Hope you can find some of this caliber.
We have a Toledo Ohio native who does illustration for the Star Wars franchise. I have no idea what his price would be for original designs but here is his website if it helps…https://brianrood.com/
Thanks for the new book recommendation! You’ve mentioned the author before so I definitely need to add her books to my pile of To Be Read.
I can’t properly express how excited I am to read the new snippet!!!!! I also can’t wait to hear the new title!!!!! Thank you so much for this Julie addition!!! Team Derek! 🙂
Good luck with the office renovations! I can definitely see the need for a dedicated office space!
Good luck☘️ enjoy the DIY
thanks, I now have another Jessie book in my audible library, really love the series.
I’ve got to Magic Slays re-listens and enjoy sitting in the sunshine and walking the dogs listening to my your books.
I get lots of funny looks when I’m laughing at Kate ????
Ohh I love when you post artwork. I am very visual and seeing your vision makes the books grounded
Love the two artists. I also thought of Nalini Singh and her series. I liked how Eddie uses color. Both both are perfect for the edgy KD series. .
And more Ryder this week . Happy ????.
Read the first 2 books from Jessie Mihalik. I think the second was better than the first. Both liked both. Will check out the third.
Was reading Sapphire flames over the weekend. Just got to the opera ball. Always thought of the great opera starJessie Norman as Madam Trapeze.
Can’t wait till Emerald Blazes comes out.
Good luck with the book cases.
I also start putting them together and then pick up a book and start reading. So the book cases take twice as long.
Thank you for your continued posting during such a awful time.
It sort of keeps me grounded.
I am in NYC, and very limited things are slowly opening.
.
You might have better luck googling the artist and finding their personal site/other social media. A lot of gallery art sites like that are forum based and it requires you to either check the box to email you PM’s, or log in.
Good god, I feel you on spending 95% of the time in one room – I’m doing that right now because I’m working from home but don’t have a home office, so it’s just going from one side of the room to the other, from one computer to another. Not fun, so I am so thrilled you guys share your writing and just seeing posts is a good thing. Also gonna pick up the book rec because I need something. Thank you as always! You guys are fantastic.
Wow, that was incredibly like how I pictured the Edge. Great artwork. Glad you have your office back, I’ve been teleworking for months now in my family room and I get you how can’t escape looking at work, even when you’re off. Thanks for the upcoming Ryder installment!
Best, Karen O.
Love the artwork. And thanks for the tip on Jessica Mihalik, have just bought the first novel in the series to see how it goes.
Can’t wait for Ryder, but that’s always the case with your books.
Jane
Would this be Mind-Entertainment, if you haven’t already seen this: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-8300203/Mother-two-32-creates-stylish-Merino-wool-blanket-lockdown.html?fbclid=IwAR2IMK6bnPxiHI-cHbOr_hF3_AYmAqLQmnYkQln5JIeFtXZ2m-sZEZxHv8s You are an Advance Knitter, but thought of you after I Shared this with my sister who ‘needles’.
Anything you write is entertaining! I am excited for your new office and bathroom. Pretties???? Thank u for all you do!
Holy guacamole, you don’t know how happy it makes me to hear that a large chunk of Ryder is coming this week. You’ve been a source of sanity during this quarantine and especially in the last week. My 1 year old is getting his 3rd molar since quarantine, my 89-year-old grandmother broke her hip and we can’t visit her in the hospital, I’m working through a new MS med and the steroids they gave me with it are kicking my ass, and my 3 year old is throwing up today. THANK YOU for starting Ryder. I’m rereading the KD books as we go along too.
If your asking our opinion, I preferred the artscape/Kog picture; it was stunning! Glad to hear you’ll have your office reno done soon. By the way, I love the Ryder story!
Hi,
Firstly thank you, I love your work and read it voraciously, I also love this blog particularly the honesty.
On the art front I am senior admin for a facebook group which was initially formed by a geographically local friend and artist to essentially pimp his art and that of his friends (my husband is also an artist). It has grown substantially in outlook since then however we have a lot unusual artists some of whom I think would love to be considered.
Would you like me to ask the group for tenders?
Thanks again for hours and hours of joy you have given me.
Regards,
Kt Mehers
The artwork is definitely ‘Edgy’. As someone who also works from home, I get the whole separation of living and work space. My office is the 3rd bedroom in my house, but it is at the opposite end from my bedroom. People ask me why I have a 3 bedroom house when its just me and the dogs, the reason is just that…a separation of work and living. So I totally get it.
As for chores….duh! It’s spring (well summer in Texas =D) the things that are put off all winter need tending. I mowed my front, back, field and neighbor’s property yesterday….thank goodness for riding lawn mowers!!! But it beats looking at 3’ of snow so I won’t complain…really I won’t….maybe….sorta…..=)
Thanks for the book recommendation, I’ve been in a reading slump. I haven’t found anything I want to continue reading past the first few chapters. I keep returning to intriguing series I found, Rules of Redemption and Age of Deception, the
Firebird Chronicles Series, Book 1 & 2,
By: T. A. White. Thought I’d share… Haven’t heard much buzz about these books and there excellent. Am I not the only one that wants to escape from reality?
Pretty artwork, I preferred artist number 2. I love the artwork from Innkeeper. There was an artist work you posted of Kate Daniel’s that nailed her.
T.A. White has been recommended on this blog, by both the BDH and Ilona. My favorites are the Firebird Chronicles (love Jin and can’t wait for book 3!) and the Broken Lands series, and am also looking forward to the next Aileen Travers, which I think is the next book to drop.
Thank you for this recommendation !
1) “We have picked the series and title” SERIES!!! YAY!!!
2) I forgot today was Tuesday, or I would have started rereading The Consortium series yesterday, but even though I’m only halfway through book 2 so far, I wanted to second Ilona’s recommendation. Of course, I found Jesse Mihalik through this blog in the first place, so…
3) I *forgot* today was Tuesday. The worst thing that Covid19 has done to me (and I consider myself incredibly lucky this is all) is that I now have a tendency to forget what day of the week it is. Fully, legitimately forget, until I have to check my phone to be sure.
Picked the series…”squeeeeeee.”
I **HIGHLY** recommend Renee Robyn for composite photography — totally fits your style of what you’re looking for and she used to model, so she’s stellar with picking out models and working with them.
(I don’t know her personally, but I learned a lot of my composite style from her.)
https://www.reneerobynphotography.com
especially this gallery: https://www.reneerobynphotography.com/Digital-Alchemy/
Beautiful site! I especially loved the Before and After gallery- a couple of pics could have been Elara from Iron Covenant, nice!
Isn’t her work just stunning? She has such a great imagination. And she would totally dig the Ryder book / KD world.
Her work ethic is phenomenal (and she’s a teacher for CreativeLive and Photoshop), so she’s highly respected in the photography world.
(I fangirl over her stuff and take her classes.)
Absolutely stunning!
+1 ????
She is very talented and her photography is beautiful, but a lot of her portfolio has the green screen issue, where it’s very clear that she cut out the model and put them in front of a different background. Some images are great, like this one: https://www.reneerobynphotography.com/Digital-Alchemy/i-QdVMFTW/A/.
But this one demonstrates the issue: https://www.reneerobynphotography.com/Digital-Alchemy/i-ztpHw3H/A
She is properly lit, but she isn’t properly color matched, and the model was clearly shot at a higher resolution than the background. That woman doesn’t look like she’s been out in the desert. Regularly worn clothes lose some of that newness, but everything about her is pristine and high rez. It reads costume.
Basically, she isn’t textured enough, so she pops right out and the realism is broken. I couldn’t use this as a cover and I couldn’t hire her, because there is no guarantee that when I came back with that criticism, she could fix it. It’s a stunning image, it’s just very clear that it’s a studio shot.
It’s a common problem with composites. Usually people get around it by adding texture and haze, like Gene Mollica. https://www.genemollicastudio.com/cover-art-gallery/
just as I was giggling from “ooh sparkles” you say you aren’t entertaining. 😉
Your sharings are always entertaining. No kissing butts, is a fact.
Fixing stuff at home is something that can be pretty stressful but also fun once we see the end result, well if the end result is a good one. Last year we redo our kitchen, we went with PVC because water damage is allegedly not a issue with that material, also no risk for fungus. We plan to redo my bookshelves in PVC in the future…as in…kiddos are in college future. Considering youngest is 10, we got time to save some money lol
Hope the artist answers back!
Wow, that IS totally the Edge! I like his work for your other series too (like this one put me vaguely in mind of the constructs in your last segment from Sapphire Flames (https://www.artstation.com/artwork/3gP2Y). The second illustrator seems a little better suited toward the KD universe, but his work lacks the colors that bring scenes to life like the first illustrator. These two combined would do a great job with illustrations for the KD universe!
Totally The Edge. It’s a match made in heaven if you can get him.
Wow! I can see the Edge in that piece. Good luck with the office stuff. We are going to be converting the bedroom I have been using for crafting to an office for my husband as it looks like he will be home thru the end of the year plus our daughter my use it too as her school is going to be online in the fall too.
So I have a question, has Gordon’s Alfa gone total diva yet and thrown the car equivalent of a hissy fit? With all the restrictions and lack of travel, she must be going nuclear from not being driven, plus Alfas are magic driven ( as evidenced by the incantations Alfa owners often had to try and start it, Kate’s Jeep was nothing in comparison). The one I had was off road for a major overhaul, and when I got her back on the road she tried to kill me,literally, brakes failed.
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Can’t wait to hear what you’ve decided for the new Ryder series. Yessss! It just cements it even more with an official title! SQUEEEE! 😀
Congratulations are in order for the progress on renovations! We’re just happy to hear updates and feel connected rather than entertained.
Thank you! Be safe!
Yes, it’s the Edge! Awesome
;o)
Laurence
Oooo! I used to be an art show director for a science fiction convention. I’m on a Facebook list that’s “supporting” convention artists because so many conventions have been canceled this year. I know many very good science fiction and fantasy artists…who would be very very happy to have some paying work right about now… can I pass your request along , stipulating, of course, that they contact you correctly and have actually read at least a couple of your books? Unlike the guy who isn’t contacting you, the artists I know don’t have a gig at Apple to pay the bills and would be happy to talk to someone who is willing to actually hire them…
Also, very cool on “an office with a bathroom” My office currently has a bed, tho I’m thinking of changing that in the near future by moving all the bookshelves into the same room (again) and maybe organizing the porch so I can fit the tools and stuff out there, thus cleaning out what used to be my office and is now a junk room, lined with book cases. I’m going to need a lot more caffeine.
Also, love the Jessie Mihalik series… I was waiting for the next book rather impatiently, but then Adam-Troy Castro recommended a fantasy adventure called “The Rook” by Daniel O’Malley which is also now a TV series, and I’ve found my patience 🙂 I’d pre-ordered Jessie’s book anyway, so it’s here and waiting when I finish this one (later today).
The Rook (the first book) was so good! I started the second book, but it didn’t really grab me (Myfanwy was no longer the focus), but I may try again another time. And while I enjoyed the tv series that was on Starz, it is definitely different from the book (except for the first scene).
and you’ve been waiting for something new and awesome to give you a mental break, check it out.
Again, I recommend Debra Dunbar’s Imp series. She just revived the Ha-Satan’s story with book 11 and promises a 12th.
We are working on Ryder full speed and you should have a large chunk coming to you this week.
COOL BEANS!
Gordon still wants to tweak it, otherwise it would have gone out today. We have picked the series and title, but we can’t tell you yet.
I can wait.
Love the first picture. Totally Edge.
“ All I’ve been doing in the past week is work and chores. It’s this weird phenomenon where I have a long to do list and I keep knocking things off, but it’s not getting shorter, because new things keep piling up.”
You and Gordon are humans, just like the rest of us! Who’d have thunk it?
I am amazed that the two of you can keep track of the details of so many different universes while writing such great stories. And have real lives.
First one really reminded me of Mire. 🙂
Great art, I like the style you’re going for.
When I looked at the artwork, the first one, with the towering building, reminded me of the dealer’s place in Fate’s Edge. The second one looks exactly like the hunters who tried to catch Richard in Steel’s Edge, weird hound and all. I love artwork, but for me, in books, artwork is a waste because my Kindle doesn’t have color and there isn’t a bookstore within 60 miles to buy a book with a color picture in it. It doesn’t really matter to me, though, because you go to great lengths to find words to express exactly what something looks and feels like in person. The way you can do that is fascinating. Many try, but you succeed.
I get waiting on household repairs. Our breaker tripped last spring, and we have yet to get someone in here to rewire our living room. Yeah. It’s been over a year with no power in the living and dining room, which are divided by that imaginary line there. First it was a matter of who to call, then it was a matter of being able to pay him to rewire half the house, now it’s a matter of I’m too sick to clean up to let anyone come into the house. I’m supposed to be going on the wait list for the surgery I need to fix one major problem caused by someone who had a medical license not in the specialty he needed to do things a few years ago, with at least 2400 surgeries scheduled ahead of me because the pandemic made everybody close down. The surgeon I contacted locally said it’s so far beyond anything he can do that I need a full team to do all that’s required in the operating room, then at least 3 days in the hospital to recover. My only hope for that to happen soon is that the surgeon here in this city says it’s threatening my life, and they will schedule by urgency. So I wait. The other issue is still under testing to see what’s wrong with me and figure out how to fix it. (On the bright side, I’m finally skinny. On the dark side, I cannot eat without excruciating pain, and I have actually lost too much weight.) But my day will come. I will eat again. And when I do, I will call and have the power turned back on at that entire end of the house. I will also have him fix one of the breakers that runs my kitchen. That’s only been out for 30 years, but I think it’s time. I would like my ceiling lights to work. So don’t think you’re the only one who delayed getting repairs done. Procrastination is an art, and I’m way ahead of you there! Now it’s a race to see if I live long enough to get things done. I tell you — it’s always something, right?
Meanwhile, if Gordon wants to tweak, I’ll give him all the time he wants to do that. You two always tweak and fuss until everything you write is crystal clear, and that’s SO worth waiting for! Enjoy all the new stuff. And I’m with you on that bathroom in the work space. You can’t beat that. *sparkles* Now you just have to find some bath tissue to stock it!
The renovations sound nice, although I’m sure living with them in progress is a bit stressful. I hope they are finished up to your delight soon, and then I hope there are pictures because I’m the sort of person who like to see other people’s libraries. (You have bookshelves, therefore you have a library in your office even if it isn’t your entire library.)
Wow! Love that artwork.
My To Do list at work keeps getting longer and longer. its quite disheartening.
And my vacation to Peru go cancelled so I am quite depressed about that as well.
I feel a tantrum coming on! 😉
But luckily Chaos Reigning is happily distracting me.
About the list problem…yeah. I pretty much resemble that accusation
Ilona + Gordon et al check out the Murderbot series! Love love love. And the name is ironic, btw. I wait eagerly for each new release to get to my library and then wait in line. Then I read it 4*. Not my usual pattern ????
Space Sci-fi is not a genre I read,really ever; but I found the murder bot books on my online library and enjoyed them immensely.
OMG his art is absolutely insanely amazing. and it would fit so well with many of your works too!!! have you checked out his girlfriend’s work yet?? found her instagram on his: https://www.instagram.com/yu.zus/
I was thinking……………..
….oh right…..Molock. (Confinement brain) It just dawned on me, having been a biblical scholar years back, that Molock was seriously bad news. The Bible is full of references that say ‘you should not give your seed to Mulock any person who gives their seed to Mulock will be killed’ etc. etc. meaning anybody who gives over their child to this creature. He was feared and disgusting and horrifying. Like -one of the worst creatures to ever walk the earth, (if you look at some of the Bible commentary). People think that is where the devil model comes from. He roasted children alive with molten hands. That is one scary monster the author lords have come up with.
Yikes and weeeee!
Chaos Reigning is a great book and your News on Ryder is the icing on the cake.
Hope the book cases are the perfect finish for your office and that your list has passed the point where it keeps getting longer.
Ohhh, love the first one, so very Edge!
Yayy for renovations, will be great to have a fresh (separate) space to work in. Good luck with the furniture building, I ❤️ putting together IKEA.
I’m reading Chaos Reigning. It’s wonderful! 😀 Anyone who has not read the series should start with Polaris Rising. Also, I noticed in the acknowledgment section in the book Jessie Mihalik says thank you to Ilona and Gordon. It was really nice.
Also, for those who like the Wraith King series by Grace Draven, the third book, Ippos King is out for pre-order. Yay!
Another Ryder chunk coming soon…you are awesome. Just, please, do not burn out. Glad you can get your work space back. 😀
Good morning from Australia! Have a random cockatoo to say thanks for the joy you bring. We feed a flock of these gorgeous animals, and this ones mate comes and bangs on my window, crazy dances and climbs the fly screen to get food. Have a great day!
You guys are full on and yet you take the time to appreciate other writers and keep us updated. You are pretty darn amazing!
Love the art work and hope the artist responds.
So looking forward to a big chunk of Rhyder and excited too to know the title you have decided on.
Take a little break.. ????????????
My brain short circuited at the word series. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Renovations can be a pain, but I always enjoy the decorating part!
There are so many creative people who comment, it is intimidating. Oh well. Moving on, I love,love the first illustration for The Edge series, perfect, just perfect. The other illustration, meh, not so much. Your generosity is so joyous.
So now I will have to try Jessie Mihalik, simply because last time I took one of your recommendations, I found TA White. I love the Firebird Chronicles so much that I imported the paperback versions from the UK, because keepers go on the shelf. It’s the rule. That said, I’m hip deep in a KD reread and Julie just got bitten by the render, so it’s not a good time to step out.
I wish you fun with the office revamp – I recently escaped working from home to return to the office, and the change of scenery is a glorious thing. Living entirely in one space gets very old, very fast. And my bathroom doesn’t have sparkles.
I understand the need to separate work and play during this hard time I’ve been trying to do that myself as much as I can living in a small flat. I spend my work days on my work laptop in the living room on a little folding laptop desk thing then play time in my small office area where my home PC is. Not ideal but the best I can accomplish with what I have.
I’m really enjoying Ryder it’s just what I needed to keep my spirits up 🙂
Series… You said SERIES. I am beside myself happy!
That artwork is 100% Edge. Awesome find.
And thanks for the rec. I’ve been sci-fi focused lately, and this looks great.
So much news… and buried amidst it all, Kid2 is moving to Austin. Eek!
I hope you and Gordon are happy with the change in circumstances, and don’t miss Kid2 too terribly.
This week I’ve gone from having a full house, to kid1 moving out with his SO, and Kid2 heading back to school. The house is empty and I’m struggling a touch with loneliness after 2 months with everyone home in lockdown.
That being said, a news filled blog from my favourite authors is the perfect way to cheer up the day, so thanks!!
Best of luck with finishing your Reno’s (and flat pack building), and search for the perfect artist.
Please take care of each other, and stay safe.
Xxx
The first link/picture looks more like the Edge…wild forest, dark and eerie.
The second one is more Post-Shift Atlanta, except I don’t think hyenas should be on leashes..you don’t want to be that close 🙂
The trick to To-Do lists is to have different one for the week. Do not add to the list, wait for next week. Otherwise it is a Never-Ending To-Do list and its not a pretty sight, and really bad for morale.
I think it is because he is working for Ubisoft (assassin Creed developers) so he might be busy 😀
Have you tried contacting the artist on a different platform?
He is on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eddiemendozaart/
and has answered comments yesterday. It might be worth to contact him that way.
Love his art.
It was thanks to your recommendation that I read Jessie Mihalik – she’s a great writer!
The artwork is awesome!!
Enjoy your “shiny” — looking forward to Ryder whenever it posts!
My brother is one semester away from graduating from art school for illustration and does a lot of concept art. I know he takes commissions and is reasonably priced because it helps him to build his portfolio.
Here are a couple of examples that reminded me of the Edge.
https://www.artstation.com/artwork/OyD0Bw
https://www.artstation.com/artwork/DxQeQA
That second link is definitely the swamp.in Bayou Moon. I love The Edge series. You never knew just what was going to happen there. I hope the authors reconsider visiting it.
What are you talking about?!? That was super entertaining and energizing! I’m excited about Jesse Mihalik’s book coming out! I’m anticipating little sleep tonight!! I probably won’t put it down once I get started! I’ve really liked her books!
I got excited about the art! The second one reminded me more of Kate Daniels world; perhaps because Julie is in Unicorn Lane.
I’m super excited about the promised big chunk of Ryder coming soon!
I love to hear about people’s renovation projects. It makes me happy and slightly jealous, until it all goes wrong and it’s a living hell! Then people get whiny!
Congratulations for being entertaining! 🙂
The art looks fantastic. Amazing at all the talent available.
Thank you for your continued hard work to provide us with an escape from the four walls of the home office.
I have taken advantage of being home to get all the home improvements done I had planned for the year. It is getting a tad expensive but thankfully I had all the money saved up ahead of time. My house is 22 years old and at times I get so angry at how much I paid for builder grade finishes. If you stay in a house long enough you find out all the stuff the builder did wrong. I just replaced the door between the house and garage and added a digital entry lock and deadbolt. I cannot believe how happy that door makes me. That it was put in correctly, it is actually fire rated, it seals well, and the locks are both rated grade two. I can’t believe how safe and secure I feel.
Now on to the final project of the year; replacing the front door. OMG, I can’t believe how expensive a decent front door is. Amazing how the project doubles in price because I have two sidelights. Thankfully, no transom. Thankfully, I provided so much work to my contractor and his crew this last 9 weeks that he is giving a break on the install price.
Thanks for letting me ramble.
Both of the sources look good. The 2nd one seems more like Atlanta in the KD Universe. The 1st one would fit the multi-Universes you write about.
Wow, the first one is the Edge! The second one is really good! Hope the artist replies soon????
I wish I could offer you my pathetic art but it is by no means in the realm of what you’ve already found. Thank you for being so productive during this trying time. I’m re-listening to the series. Now via YouTube. My kindle died and won’t read to me until the new one comes. I have a hard time listening to Renee but she’s ok. The computerized version that I call kindie doesn’t do inflections or the best pronunciations but she allows me to do all the voices in my own head. I hope I’m not hurting you guys financially by listening to the YouTube version. I’d truly prefer to listen to my kindle. But I need Kate right now. A substitute teacher doesn’t do well without classes to sub for. As it is my own children offer enough behavior issues. 🙂
I just finished binging Chaos Reigns and it was so good! Thank you for turning me on to Jessie in the first place. She’s a wonderful author and I’m excited to see what she writes next. Good luck with the renovations!
Eddie Medoza seems to be more active on deviant art https://www.deviantart.com/eddie-mendoza/art/Alleys-818799176
“We have picked the series and title, but we can’t tell you yet.” Series and title … series?
Ooh, yeah!
I teach at an art college that has a great digital media dept. – one track is concept design. They posted the spring work along with their portfolios and contact #s. You might like something here – I see a lot of engaging designs. https://www.otis.edu/annual-exhibition/2020#exhibitions
Loving Ryder – thanks!!!
Thank you for the update. I also follow Jessie Mihalik. You do not need to try to be entertaining. A peek into the window of your lives is lovely.
I love the artwork! That is definitely Edge.
The first pic, the one of the rider and house, was how I envisioned the Mar family house
Wow, that is EXACTLY how I pictured The Edge!
I have an acquaintance who does art that may be of interest: http://www.stornart.com
I’ve read Jessie Mihalik since you first recommended her, and I was thrilled to read her latest and sadly final one in the series – thanks for the recommendation
The first pic is definitely the edge and the second reminds me of KD
Can’t wait for more Ryder – more more please!
Good luck with the DIY bookshelves and new proper office
You two brighten everyone’s life
I’m also excited by Jessie’s book release.
My less than exciting task for today is many loads of laundry.
My somewhat exciting task is to try the 3-2-1 Mug Cake recipe:
Combine a box of angel food cake mix with a box of chocolate cake mix. (Other flavors Of cake mix besides chocolate could work, but why)
Mix 3 Tablespoons of the mixture with 2 Tablespoons of water in a mug and microwave for 1 minute. Add toppings (optional) such as chocolate chips, whipped cream, ice cream.
Wow I’m totally in love with this artwork !!
“I am desperately trying to be entertaining here, but I’ve got nothing”, well, you succeeded just right here, you’re really a funny person. This has to be very great to be around you, your family are lucky !!
Oh my God, this last sentence doesn’t mean anything !! Second try : this must be great to be around you, your family is lucky….
Argh… I would like a “delete” button next to the comments… *face in the hands*
I love her stories. I got the book first thing Tuesday and am almost finished reading it. She’s great. I’ve read everything.
Oooh! Squee! Yay! There were so many great suggestions I can hardly wait to read what you chose! Loved the art and the first did seem mire-is the 2nd KD -ish. I agree with the other posters , that we just want to know that you 2 are well and home deco/reno is always interesting . I personally really enjoy the pet stories and the Christmas tree adventures and before and after pics were some of my favorites . Just saying .
Oh, the artwork! So cool! The first one was very edge.
I know an excellent graphic artist and sent him your web address so he could check it out and get in touch.
Thank You for your initial introduction to Jessie Mihalik & her Consortium Rebellion series. I don’t know that I would have stumbled upon the series otherwise & I have thoroughly enjoyed all 3 books. I look forward to more stories from her & I really hope that she will revisit Consortium Rebellion characters too.
Remodeling anything is a pain, even when it’s necessary. Our house is old (built in 1912) & needs a variety of things done, despite being relatively well maintained & somewhat updated. We are hoping to get some of our bigger projects done within the next year & it will be a relief once they are completed (& I’m sure more projects will present themselves in the process).
I look forward to the upcoming Ryder posts, as they have been a very nice bonus! Thanks for all of your hard work.
I love Jessie’s book since you first recommended. Have not read the latest yet…it is sitting on my kindle….because work from home. Four day weekend ahead tho.
I agree that first picture is definitely The Edge.
My kid has already moved to Austin. It was the right thing for them.
I wish I had the room to separate work and home stuff, but not right now. I do lunch outside to help keep my brain on track. Sitting in the car during rain is therapeutic.
The Edge style graphic was amazing. I’d live there. Sigh.
Oh yeah I love that art so much!!
Instead of a to do list, make a have done list each day. Crossing things off makes them seem like they no longer matter and you should be proud of how much you do each day. And we all know that there are often many, many unforeseen steps that need to be accomplished for each task, like “read instructions “(unless, you’re the typical guy or atypical girl), “get tools”(which may involve trips to hardware store), “watch YouTube video”, “patch up bleeding finger”, etc. Congrats on the new office! Oh, and the art was great!
I really like this series. The audiobooks are good too. Fun!
Thanks again for suggesting Jessie Mihalik’s books. Tried one last time you mentioned her work and now have all of them!
That second link is the Honeycombe! With the dog and everything.
The Mendoza art work is beautiful! I see why you want him.
I read Chaos Reigning and it was a good final book for the trilogy. I very much enjoyed it and hope to read more books by this author.
I am totally loving Ryder. It’s been so hard for me to read during this pandemic because I have absolutely no attention-span, but these little serialized chunks totally make my day. Thank you.
Also if you are looking for custom website art, you could do worse than this indie cover designer. I know he makes graphics for other things as well. https://www.jcalebdesign.com/
Gordon and Ilona, I so enjoy your blog, even if that was the only thing you did (although I’m selfishly glad it’s not!) I love the first picture for the Edge, really nice work by that artist. Both of you take care and may you and yours stay safe.
Wow – that’s some amazing art! I wish I had a space to renovate or expand… I’m a grad student in a shared flat during quarantine, so I spend 98% of my time in a single room (my bedroom) working on my dissertation and doing freelance editing… I can’t even go to campus to get away!
Repeat, anticipating the agony of losing Ryder I stopped at 3, sending everything to archive.
Oh, happy daze, for your news on completing it.
The Edge, the edge, oh yeah the words & scene scrolled through my head.
Awesome ???????? ???? writing vision entertainment. Rock on
If you’re looking for an artist, check out kisroka.com. I haven’t seen any of her landscape/environment work, but her characters, from anime-style to realistic, are spectacular.
I just started reading Jessie Mihalik’s Polaris Rising. It’s so good to have a heroine who chooses the sensible option. Not just butting heads with the hero at every turn to generate conflict. Working with each other and recognising each other’s strengths is a nice change. Conflict can come from the plot and other issues, not just doing something because the hero told you not to..
You two create interesting believable 3D characters, so it’s great finding other sci fi writers who do too.
Thanks for the heads up on her new book.
I had this on pre-order, already read it! I LOVED this series, it was a fun read and highly recommend
Julie was a hard sell for me, to be honest. But, I trust you and I am so glad I did. I couldn’t NOT try this and so far, it’s great. Thanks so much. And if you ever need yarn…shhhh..I have way too much. And it’s high end, too.
Eddie Mendoza did the cover art for The Messenger Chronicles by Pippa Dacosta: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BZMFLCW?ref_=dbs_r_series&storeType=ebooks
His work is amazing and the author really enjoyed working with him.
Hi, could you tell if you’ll have a new book with klaus?i m in love with the inkeeper serie.
Thank you
Thanks for sharing the art work and totally agree they remind me of The Edge series. The first one reminds me a lot of the families living in the woods.
I keep noticing the new shows popping up on TV and just can’t help but think one of your many different worlds would be great on TV! Seriously!!! I think the edge would be great but maybe they think that’s too close to the show of Once Upon a time that goes between two different worlds. That’s why I think if the execs want something totally fresh that the Inn Keeper series would be great or the Hidden Legacy series. Then I love the KD world and the Kinsmen stories so we are back to them all! Take care
House Andrews, I think you don’t have to try too hard to be entertaining. Musings on various things work quite well- your readers pick those up and really interesting things continue to be discussed in the comments. Even if you only think of an interesting question- I think it’ll take off into neat discussions.
I can’t believe we’re actually gonna eventually get a Julie series. I am not okay. Thank you guys so much :’)
Thank you for the suggestion of Jessie Mihalik as a new author to try out. I look forward to reading her books. Your suggestion of Will Wight was fantastic and I thoroughly enjoyed his books. Now in month 3 of lockdown in my Saudi compound so doing lots of reading. Thanks for the Ryder posts.
Your posts, even when they’re about hardships, are a bright spot in my day. I love that your readers are important enough for you to make an effort to be present. It is amazing and I am truly proud to be a fan.