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ILONA ANDREWS

#1 New York Times Bestselling Author

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The Horde Has the Floor

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Happy Tuesday and spooky season, everyone!

Ilona and I started to plan the rest of the blog year yesterday, and I am happy to announce we have a lot of treats (and perhaps a few tricks!) in store for you. There will be giveaways, surprises, snippets, author interviews, spoilers and assorted bits of book-related mischief. Because this year has been A Lot for everyone, and the Book Devouring Horde deserves aaaall the nice things.

But we also want to hear from you!

What would you like to see on the blog?

Do you have questions about writing, publishing, or the mysterious inner workings of the creative process or author life? Do you want to hear about things that aren’t all related to books? Recommendations, weird and wonderful research, hobbies? We’re equal-opportunity curiosity enthusiasts around here.

We can’t promise every one will become a post, but we’d love to know what you’d enjoy reading about. Drop your questions, ideas, and suggestions in the comments, please. We’ll send the ferrets in to retrieve them.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  2. I love all the holiday posts you normally do this time of year. I’d love to hear more about why people thought maggie wouldn’t initially be a big hit and if its success has change the evaluation of other series ideas the authors have had? Like how much is a book a fun idea that’s being written vs a response to market trends? Thanks!

  3. Thank you Moderator R to give us the floor. I would like to know if maybe we can have a short story about the wedding from the Fated blades. I think about it each time I re-read the book. it could be so much fun.

  4. Greetings from the Texas Hill Country! I’d like to know more about y’all’s writing process: People seem to think that writing is a very solitary activity, but as a team, yours is more likely to require external communication. I’m especially curious about this process as it relates to creating Maggie’s world and the complex politics involved.

    • Similarly I’m interested in how much planning goes into the stories and the future of the characters and how that work is countered by the risk that the series may not continue (although with HA we always want more!). What does that planning look like – are there timelines drawn on long pieces of paper stuck to walls, are thermostats or page tags where things important to later plots are inserted early so we do t even notice them until our 5th read!!!! So the physical logistics of writing complicated stories and series that span years of writing time and character time!

      • Ah yes. How many colors of yarn are used to connect all the twists and turns? Do you bulk-buy your push pins? Surely you do not use blindfolds, right? Please keep doing whatever you do!!!

    • Me too! How do you write as a team? Do you discuss characters, plots, scenes each day you write, or do you have a general idea for a book and you take turns writing sections and pass it back and forth? I can’t imagine the process. I picture one of you having a brilliant idea and waking the other up to share, then raiding the kitchen for a snack since your awake anyway!

  5. I am greedy and want all the things! Yarn, crocheting, pets, cooking, book writing and finances explained, snipits. …. all the things!

    Thank you all for the fun and joy you bring!

  7. I love the “day in a life” snippets. House Andrews is so good to us with goodies and such, but I like seeing the authors kick back and do non-authory things from time to time. It feels like a connection (in a totally non-creepy way).

  10. I love reading the blog for it’s humor, creativity, and interactions. I still tell people about the laugh I got reading the lawn mowing shake down by the lawn orphans. Made me laugh and laugh. I love and appreciate the snippets, and items that get cut from the books. I love the Inn interviews, and stories regarding the Hoards reactions. Clutching pearls, while secretly wishing I had a sword to swing.

    • Yes, the lawn orphans made me laugh hard.

      basically, I like anything the Horde can grab and twist. The comments usually choke me.

      Steve

      I like reading even the stuff that doesn’t make me laugh too. Nice to be reminded how kind people can be. And the frustrating ones, nice to know you are not alone. Tea and yarn, not my cup but still like. Book, music, tv recommends

      I guess I just want more of everything. Ha

    • Definitely need to know more about the lawn orphans!!!! And please keep doing what you do, as I really enjoy all the things you put into the blog!!!!!

  11. Would love more recipes! Is it possible to add recipes to the app? Maybe an Orro blog? Agree, it’s great to hear about your knitting projects as I’m a knitter too. But I enjoy whatever you post, especially the snippets.

  13. More of the same is fine with me. There have been only a bare handful of posts over the years that haven’t interested me enough to read more in the same veins, and of that handful, others found those same posts engaging. The blog frequently introduces us to subjects I wouldn’t have thought to look up, and my life is richer because of what I learn here. Rabbit holes R us! So carry on. Here for all of it.

  14. I would love to hear more about how you do world building, what pieces you decide ahead of time, what you figure out while you write, etc. All your worlds are unique and have so much detail.

    • Yes, this!

      I love HA world-building and all of the details that make the non-main characters unique and memorable. It’s always really interesting to hear about how decisions are made pieces come together.

    • Yes, this was exactly what I was going to request! How much of a world is pre planned and how much is just dealt with as a writing need comes along. What parts are mandatory pre build, etc. This fascinates me.

  15. In true Horde fashion I want it all!!
    Especially enjoy snippets of course, and all things yarn and knitting! Love the pet updates and pics, and holiday and life stuff.
    Thank you for asking!

  17. I’d love to know how HA found their journey into epic fantasy as a different subgenre of fantasy. As the other series are mostly Urban Fantasy and a bit scifi is it harder to be completely free in a world you create from scratch or a world were you lean on what already exists like in urban fantasy?

    Will there ever be a chance for a space opera with a strong romance subplot? Scifi romance is full of aliens/cyborg mating and abduction.
    There is very little variation in my opinion and I think HA would absolutely kill it in a basically empty space (there is the Firebird chronicles, Jessie Mihalik, Michelle Diener and Mandrake company and that’s basically it…).

    • to verify, have you tried their Kinsmen books yet? not full space opera but a hearty meal of space based SciFi well seasoned with romance.

      • I have and I especially love Silver Shark and fated Blades. But tzey are so short! I would love for a series with a pairing like Ramona and Mattias travelling through the galaxy in their spaceship, solving problems/discovering mysterious things/ fighting the evil empire behind the vandalls.

  18. I love the POV from different characters and the little snippets of our favorite characters lives. Things along the lines of Kate’s and Curran’s texts. Or maybe deleted scenes that was just cute or funny to you but for some reason was cut from the books. Anything from from any (or every) book would be greatly appreciated!

  19. Are there writing items, nibbles, scents, etc that differ for various types of scenes created?

  20. I’m with Char! All the things – knitting, research, rabbit holes, kids, cats, weather! ALL THE THINGS! I love it that Ilona’s knitting and the Buc-ee’s I pass on my way to visit family in Houston are part of Dina’s story, that my Texas hill country terrain is part of Beast Business and all the other little bits of real life like Buffalo Bayou make our Book Friends’ lives ring true!

  21. I would love some more interviews by Dina! That and more adventures of Steve and the BDH too!

    • +1 – and especially that you add warnings like “Don’t look this up. No, really. Don’t” if stuff gets icky 😂

  23. Hoouse Andrews should be careful with their tricks or they’re basically asking for another Hugh AFD event 😉

  24. I’d like to know how you both visualize the settings/landscapes in your books (especially in Maggie), and how much you refer to real-world inspiration to help guide your descriptions.

    I’m really not great at ‘seeing’ the places as described in text, and I can generally only capture a basic gist/mood of what is described. However, I was watching Monty Don’s Mediterranean Gardens a few weeks back, and his Croatia episode was STUNNING and I felt like I was finally able to ‘see’ a fantasy setting as an author might describe it to me. It wasn’t the Plitvice Lakes that actually stayed with me the most (and I was already familiar with), it was the mountain meadow he visits and *especially* the ancient communal olive grove that he visited… I could picture the Maggie characters in them so easily. So I know if I ever wrote a fantasy world I would have to build it from Earth references… but how do you two do it? Can you ‘see’ a place without ever having seen it? Do you build in your mind from references or can you picture in detail total inventions?

    • Hi Sarah,

      You’re talking about the ability to visualise. It sounds like you (just like me) struggle to do so. Have you looked up aphantasia? It’s nothing serious, but it is interesting.

      I am also interested in how people visualise things given I can’t. It’s fascinating how different people think.

      • Oh my goodness! I have 2 friends at a 4-5 on the aphantasa scale and they had NO IDEA that ‘mind’s eye’ was anything other than a metaphor. One of them has no sense visualization at all. They know they like pizza, but can’t conjure the smell or taste of it for instance. Brains are fascinating stuff.

  25. I mean, I ALWAYS want more pet pics and more recipes! (The “more fiction” goes without saying but the Powers That Be don’t need that kind of pressure!)

  26. This is not helpful but I love any and all the stories and snippets into the characters’ perspectives. Please and thank you

  27. I want to hear that IA (and our beloved ModR) are taking care of themselves and taking much needed breaks! This has been a hard year on them too with all the demands but they’re so giving they’re still thinking of us. I want to make sure in giving back to us they aren’t pushing themselves too hard.

    So I’ll appreciate anything they give us as the gift that it is but hope they know that their fans understand that it comes second to their lives and family! The Horde is mighty and growing but we want the best for our beloved author team and Mod R!

  30. I have a friend of mine who has finished the novel and is now in the process of writing query letters. Does Ilona have any advice? Because the internet is dark and full of contradictions.

  32. Writing questions, advice, ways, and means, etc.

    In writing, I compared books of yours like Kate Daniels, with other books I liked, but didn’t love. One of the things I noticed is that you all have a knack for giving life to, really, any character. (Also your research is amazing. Being a historian makes the books and characters even more transcendent.)

    Your books are so three-dimensional, every single one.
    Is there something that you do before introducing a character? Or does that come later? Or, does it come from your magical minds instantly to the keyboard?

    For example– the man who is waving the sign outside Cutting Edge, saying, “Wake up people, the end is here!”
    In the last Kate book. And, many other questions.

    Also, all the other stuff people have suggested.

    • Second vote for a blog about the character building process! I’d love to hear about character ideas that were scrapped or changed drastically from first draft.

    • I agree! Every character in every book is a real person. I’m thinking of Maggie in the street seeing a teacher, in a wheelchair, continuing to lecture as her students take care of her. One line, and I can see the classes and the respect and love her students give her. And I would love to learn the apothecary subject as well.

  33. I’m all for snippets and alternate POVs. I think I’ve mentioned it before, but I’d love to see something, literally anything, of Mom&Hart.

    If House Andrews has the time and fortitude, a free for all AMA for the individual worlds could also be fun. (Where did Kate’s name come from in world? She isn’t named after her mother or Voron, clearly. Why Daniels?) (What was Saiman going to ask that cat?!?) Etc etc…

  34. I love posts about the pets. I also enjoy posts about yarn and knitting/crocheting. I love the cooking posts, especially if there is a recipe. I enjoy the free shorts and snippets.

    Honestly, I read all the posts on the blog and generally enjoy them all.

  35. I would like another Steve Antics story please (that should have been possessive but I typed it wrong and may have now suggested he has a surname)

  37. I feel like I wouldn’t want to put another burden onto any of you. If there are things that you post about that are helpful for you to take a break from writing that make it feel worthwhile that would be great. I thought it was funny that you thought people wouldn’t like a fall tree post but that was actually pretty neat. And I like that it was a stress relief for you.

  38. I always enjoy the book-related treats – snippets, deleted scenes, stories about the editing process, what had to be cut and why… plus updates on what’s coming next. Knowing that old proverb always applies, “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.”

  39. I would love to know how polished a first draft is now that our dear Authors have published so many fabulous books. I hear the advice “if it’s not on paper it can’t be edited” so often, but I look at Ilona Andrews and wonder. Do you leave block- [insert scene info here] and move on? Or is it more than that?

  41. I most enjoy snippets, pets, and cross over interviews at the Inn. But that said, one of my most favorite funny posts were the back and forth with the vampire character writing in to the blog. His name and s escaping me and I think Jeannine Frost was involved. So your interactions with BFFs always great too!

  42. Hobbies, holidays, snippets, life, odd facts,recipes. Everything you both have done so far! Remember to take time for yourselves along with some pampering! Life can often be stressful and we don’t always realize when that tipping point between managing nicely and dropping all the eggs in the basket comes. Have a happy Halloween and enjoy your beautiful fall decorations!

  43. “Bring all the donuts!” I love everything about this blog, all varied posts as well as the BDH comments! 😍
    As others have mentioned before, I don’t know of another author that offers so much and engages so much with their fans so thank you once again!

  44. 1. I would love to hear about the most epic rabbit holes of research you fell into that resulted in either 2 lines in a book (any book) or was the lynchpin for a major plot point. something memorable that stayed with Ilona or Gordon.

    2. Ilona has mentioned wanting to re-write the first Kate book. What would she change?

    3. As far as business goes, I’m curious about the sales for the back-catalogue when there’s a new release. Is there an increase for the other series or the spin offs and how much?

    For example, was there an increase in sales for Kate’s series when This Kingdom was released or Nevada’s series when Beast Business was released? Or the Edge series when Gaston reveals George’s marriage in Innkeeper?

    4. Will there be any more web comics?

  45. I’d love to hear about all the various background characters you come up with,how do they manifest themselves,do you have a whole background made up for them? or do you just make them up as you go along.

  46. Hello! As always, thank you for giving a platform to the horde and not judging the crazy. Could I please request another release of the recommendation thread, maybe with a type of book genre specified that we haven’t covered before? I think we’ve done sci-fi, paranormal romance, urban fantasy & epic fantasy. So maybe we do just plain romance? Or thrillers? Murder mysteries? I dunno, I find like-minded readers in the horde and always vibe with the recommendations given. But it is a lot to moderate so please ignore as needed too!

    • +1 for recommendations thread. Maybe include non-fiction also. Sometimes I feel like I’m hiding from the world

  47. I always love your book recommendations. I have added so many authors to my must read list from your recommendations

  48. I always enjoy hearing about the crochet projects! Planning, progress, and finished objects are equally fascinating, also problems (with possible solutions) and frog attacks.

  50. It’s been a really turbulent year.

    I just want regular life: tea, knitting, family, PET STORIES (I adore your pet stories and videos, and TUNA), and to know you guys are well. And to support you when you aren’t in some small way.

    Stories like the lawn orphans, regular every day stuff relayed in your voice with your empathy and humor and insight are the best. But most of all, I just want you guys to be safe and happy.

  52. Like many Horde-fellows? Horders? Horderary Members? I love reading about the creative process, and I would be so happy to learn how you name your characters. How much research do you put into it, do you always look up the meaning of a name or just go with what feels right? Do you think a character named Brunhilde Bonecrusher The Third would be make a good healer? 😉 How much magic is in a name?

    And yes, snippets! Pets! Yarn!

  53. Of course the snippets and any and all narrative, but in addition I find the weird research rabbit holes really interesting.

  54. My favorite blog posts (aside from snippets and free fiction of course) are the Day In The Life pieces, or “how we wrote ___” pieces. I love nothing more than seeing glimpses into the great minds of House Andrews.

    I also have a fondness for interesting research and Tuna escapades teehee

  55. Snippets. Research Rabbit Holes. Book Recommendations. “Minor” characters’ points of view. Animal stuff.

    And, because the Horde is so wide ranging, maybe conversations about our own individual obsessions? Bc we’re family, right?

    Thank you anyways for all you give us. One of the Best Blogs anywhere.

  56. I’d love to hear more about the creative process. For example, what was the inspiration behind The Inheritance? How did you come up with the layout for Kair Toren or the Baylor residence? If there a favorite planet or place in the Innkeeper series?

  57. I enjoy reading about your research for ideas. The mysterious inner workings of how you bring the research into a storyline.

  60. I like the crafty hobby updates, I’m a beginner with yarn and feel inspired. The recommendations are good, snippets are the best 🙂 it’s nice to see the business side of writing and random life stuff too.

  61. Do you ever take inspiration from music? Do you listen to music while writing or do you need silence? Also, snippets, food, animal adventures, and House Andrews adventures. Thank you for everything!

  62. I would love recipe content. Any time your characters cook something it sounds good. A bonus would be an in-character cooking segment for the blog.

    Otherwise, I always enjoy what you decided to share. And yes, more snippets!

  63. A dinas inn episode where Orro is trying to make a cooking show episode. Fire!
    I also love interesting research! what are some of the craziest rabbit holes you have fallen down in search of information?

  64. What size are were rats when they shift to rat form? Are they giant rats? Rodents of unusual size? And what about it half form?
    I don’t know why this bothers me.

  68. anything! but I always especially loved the less traditional “snippets” like:
    -Kate and Curran texts
    -Dina interviews [character]

  69. I would like to know about how special edition book decisions are made.

    who decides how many copies get printed?

    why use a subscription book box which only sells to subscribers, instead of selling the special edition to everyone?

    As you know, the Horde has been desperately trying to find copies of Owlcrate special edition of This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me. Any possibility of a reprint from Owlcrate?

    You previously informed your fans that the publisher Ace has refused to print a special edition of your Kate Daniels series. Any discussion of why they refused?

    I think we are all very curious about special editions.

    But I love your blog and will read anything you post. A snippet of Everard’s point of view would be spectacular.

  71. Oh, thanks for asking! I’m not an especially long time reader, so these may be in the archives, but here are my offerings:

    1. How do you plot your stories? Does it vary based on length or intended purpose?(By purpose, I’m thinking that perhaps you treat a web serial differently from something you know is going to be a single book which you do differently from a multi-book series. But maybe you don’t, and everything starts out the same because of interesting reasons…)

    2. What is your process for deciding what to self-publish vs trying the traditional route? Has it changed as your career has matured?

    3. You write a lot of romance, and I’m curious about that. What draws you to it and keeps you interested in that specific type of relationship? Or is it more of a market decision, maybe you started there, and that is what your audience expects now?

  72. I’d like to have some more ‘Sky dreaming Dragon’ story, please! We haven’t had much Author-lords pet shenanigans updating of late, you know the trivial, mundane stuff that gives Writing the break.

  73. I would love another one of those posts where everyone is encouraged to put things they’re grateful for in the comments. Maybe a holiday themed one?

  74. I’m thrilled that Maggie the book has sold well. I wonder if you have stats for sales increases for your other books because Maggie lured in more Horde members. I myself have two converts this year, one Maggie and one Innkeeper as entres, and am working on 2 more. We are a welcoming Horde.

  75. I love reading about the writing process. One of my favorite posts is one one where HA answered a question about how they describe characters in distinct ways so as to not get them mixed up. Their answer was so thought-provoking, I look for it now when I read. They said they don’t always assign physical characteristics to somebody. If they can use descriptive language (“a scummy, sniveling prick of a man”) to make you envision a character based on your own experience, then they don’t have to provide any physical characteristics.

    I thought that was wonderful. Just wonderful. I’d love to know more writing secrets like that.

  76. Anything.
    I am just so grateful you write stories.
    🙂
    Ps how in the heck do you choreograph fight scenes?

  77. I love the research rabbit holes! when you describe the strange things you’re researching and it gives us a little tiny peek at whatever you’re working on.

  78. I am curious on how compensation with programs like Amazon Kindle Unlimited and Kobo Plus work. What makes you decide that one book or another gets into these programs and are you compensated with a per-read type thing or with downloads. The Audible post I read this morning was a fascinating glimpse into the stupidity of Amazon compensation changes.

    Then also the recommendation threads are wonderful – I’m always looking for some new and interesting reads, since I, as a member of the BDH, truly devour books.

  79. I enjoy the snippets, stuff about hobbies, and weird and wonderful research. You could add interesting or useful sites you found while researching too. I like all the things.

  81. Oh, there will be snippets? yes, all the snippets please! We are so spoiled.

    Wouldn’t it be fun to vote on the blog for our favorite attempt at guessing TCWN*M’s full title? there could be several categories: realistic, funniest, hottest

  82. Yay!! I would love snippets, recommendations (I found T.A. White and Jessie Mihalik thanks to their blog) and definitely news on their WIP release updates !

  83. When you are rested and recovered from your slog to finish Maggie 2… I love looking forward to a weekly installment of free fiction, like the way Inheritance was released on the blog. Anticipating the next chapter/ half-chapter really kept my imagination going thinking about which way things would turn out next. Also, anything pet/ critter related is much appreciated. And really, a grocery list would be fine. I have found just about anything you want to put out there enjoyable to read. Thank you so much!

  84. If and when you get time to read, I’d love to hear about what you are reading and what you are enjoying. I always appreciate a good recommendation!

    I enjoy reading about the inner workings of the publishing field.

    But snippets and book announcements are best. Best Best Best!

  85. I haunt the blog daily because everything y’all post is fun or interesting or both. And the comments are generally also worth perusing! We’re an interesting horde. But I especially love snippets (who doesn’t?🤣) and pet shenanigans.

    In an aside, did Kid 2 ever do anything more with that yummy snippet she gave us? I think about it so often.

  87. I have a question about writing and the mysterious inner workings of the creative process. When House Andrews goes to revisit a world, like Kate’s in Wilmington, how do you refresh your memory about the context of the world at that moment in time? Also, several books are still mentioned as being developed that are not in time-synch with other books in the same world. What tricks do you use to keep timelines and events clear in your head?

  89. I’ve always wondered how two authors can write together and always get to a point where they agree. With you both sitting next to each other, how do you share ideas and how to write them.

  90. Love stories about all your critters and kids. Recipes! Fun eith your author friends (Grace and Jeannine!) Holiday decorations!

  91. ALL of it! We wants it all! All the precious! 😂

    That and a serial, maybe? If the author lords have the energy still?

  93. I would like to know more about the research you’ve done for the fish tanks. I’ve been considering doing a live marine plant tank without fish to see if I can maintain & keep them alive. Long term I’d like to have a betta in the tank as well, but lets focus on plants for now!

  94. It’s all good. I have especially enjoyed the serials and snippets. Also love the peeks we get into House Andrews with their pets, projects and such. Aquariums, who knew?

  95. The humor….I loved reading the blog during covid…and now, but I started reading it every day back then. I love the Friday story snippets/chapters, the Dina interviews, the audio book samples for us to hear, stories and pictures of pets.
    (I had forgotten about the Lawn Orphans.. so funny).
    Thank you for all that. Every item above takes time and energy. Being funny is time consuming. And you still need time and energy to write and edit (yes I would like more of your amazing written talent). Most important, there needs to be enough left over to live your lives…and like them. Thank you and good luck.

  96. Julie’s second story? Hugh’s second story? Okay okay, I wouldn’t be horde if I wasn’t cheeky once in a while. I love the posts where you share things about your day to days. What you’re cooking. What you’re knitting. That kind of thing.

  97. I would like to know about the chicken. What’s is up with Elara and Hugh and the chicken? If it’s a secret (for now) then a cute scene (E&H version of cute) between the two of them would be awesome. She is a witchy kind of woman so that would be great for this time of year.

  99. Please, please, pretty please, the Inkeeper grand finale 🫰🏼🫰🏼🫰🏼🫰🏼

  100. I love see pet photos and reading about latest craft projects (knitting, sewing, etc). I’m a proud member of The Hord so book morsels needed to feed the hunger 😀

  102. I love the openness and honesty you bring to your blog, and I find it fascinating (and, of course, I’m always desperate to hear about upcoming releases). But part of me also feels slightly uncomfortable; I’m sure that keeping the BDH satisfied comes with its own stresses, whether that from fulfilling merch or feeling that you need to post in order to avoid complaints.

    As much as I love hearing about your work and your lives, it sometimes feels a little voyeuristic and I worry that the additional pressure of running the blog might have a detrimental effect on your lives. Your books have been a source of comfort and escape (and even euphoria!) during some dark times in my life, and I’d hate to repay that positive impact in a negative way, even if it’s only indirectly. I hope I’m being oversensitive here, but I still feel a sense of imbalance, in that I’m taking without returning.

    So I guess my question is – what can we in the BDH do to make your lives easier, more fulfilled, more enjoyable, in the same way that you have improved ours? Outside of the obvious (buying your books, giving them positive reviews) is there any other way we can help you in the way that you’re helping so many people?

  103. I love the posts getting a peek into the House Andrews writing process. Paraphrased conversations giving highly redacted reasoning behind why certain scenes needed to change, how ideas are formed, what it looks like to fall down the research rabbit hole… I find that fascinating.

  105. I would love to read about how Christopher and Barabas became a couple. Just a little snippet. Oh, to be a fly on the wall for *that* conversation…..

  106. I love all the C drama recommendations Ilona has given us, I’d take more on those! also, did you guys check out Asian BL dramas yet? love it.

    My favourite is the innkeeper series, if anything pops up on those I’d love it!

    And Ascanio. that’s it. thanks!

  108. My question: what do you consider the difference between science fiction and fantasy.
    I frequently think a book is sci-fi and then fantasy elements (or what I consider fantasy appear).
    And vice versa.

  109. I enjoy snippets, but info/pics of pets, yarn creations and life are always fun. You are very generous sharing with us. It is appreciated!

  110. There are references in comments to earlier posts that are not archived. If you still have them, could you repost some of the more popular posts (snippets, deleted scences, funny stories etc…) from a while ago? As a new member of the BDH, I would love to read them. Thanks.

  111. 1. More Inn Fridays
    2. More Quizzes
    3. More free fiction
    4. More contests
    5. More snippets

    Thank you!

  112. I’d love to hear how you run your “business”. You have your creative side vs the operations/business side. Whats a work week or month look like. How do you make commercial decisions about which book/series to focus on next? How do you manage the expectations of fans? There are 7 stories on the go in 5 separate series/worlds… how do you stay engaged with these? How do you feel when you have to put Maggie first with your time and energy to meet commercial commitments, but have these other books to write? Do you ever sneak a few chapters in if inspiration arises?

  114. whatever you post, I will read. Post what interests you, as all the BDH will enthusiastically read and comment.

  115. AURELIA RYDER!!!! I am feral for it, but I can be p*tient. I don’t want to stress Ilona or Gordon out!

  116. I’m visualizing a giant fire ant bed that just got poked!! All the things!!! Running madly too and frow! ALL the things!!

    Looks out at the yard….Yep, she poked the Horde. But seriously, you write it, we’ll read it, and comment madly! I love this blog.

  117. Hi!
    I wouldn’t mind seeing some more recipes, the glazed chicken drumsticks has become a staple in my food repertoire 😊
    Otherwise,
    Snippets!
    Book recommendations!
    & Inn Fridays 😍
    Please and thanks

  118. As you publish more books, has your writing process changed?

    Will Maggie and Everard marry? (As he says after letting the smoke go and she waves it off, it was worth a try).

  119. I love hearing about your life. As one of your overseas readers glimpses of your world are always so interesting. As for snippets? For me it’s any news of Kate’s.

  120. I too love the recipes, yarn, and tea. But I would love some snippets from Helen and the grandparents.
    I would also like to know Ilona had bedtime stories about the old country lore of Baba Yaga or is that more researched based?

  121. When Fourth Wing had its big moment, did House Andrews ever think about developing Puffles to have an easier time getting that idea to market?

  123. I agree with Kathryn…whatever you post, we will enjoy.

    Thanks to you, I fell in love with so many wonderful characters, found new authors to follow, great recipes to try, fell down a rabbit hole of Russian mythology, learned to replace my keyboard and keys, laughed with character POVs, admired Ilona’s knitting skills, learned about Texas purple skies, became a Dungeon Crawler, discovered that vampires can’t hold their coffee and so much more.

    Your generosity of spirit is truly remarkable. My happy heart will read any and everything you wish to post.😊

  124. As a domestic Hordeling, I especially appreciate the “I crocheted this” and “I cooked this” posts.

  125. I’d love to see book and game recommendations as well as more crafty posts.

    Ah, crafty as in crafting, though cunning posts might also be fun, especially this close to Hallowe’en. . .

    But I like pretty much anything that gets posted here. It’s always a treat to read.

  126. Clever games/links: one of my fave blogs and replies was when Mod R provided links to find words added to vocabulary based on birthdate. The hilarity ensued as twisty, clever Horde members shared their findings, comments and other funny bits.
    This is my first blog to follow, all of it entertaining and interesting , often unexpected. Yay Horde!!!

  127. Of course snippets are a favorite, but I love seeing your needlework projects, and your pets. I love hearing what you are going through, from keyboards to burn out.
    So basically in my opinion you have been doing everything right and I want you to continue along those lines.
    But if you post food, be sure you are willing to post the recipe.

  128. Publishing question, submitted out of ignorance: what are some of the common reasons that traditional publishers often take a year to a year and a half getting books out after the authors have done their part and submitted their final edits?

  129. All of the above!
    As you please!

    Though ….. the doings of the furrier members of the House *would* be int-eresting …….

  130. I would love more fiction. Anything you feel like writing. Little ficlets about the pets would go over well with the Horde. Tuna going on an adventure would be so funny! But really, anything you write, we will consume with Horde-like enthusiam! 😁

  131. I love snippets and extra stories. Even just mundane extra ones like this is how this character’s boring day goes.
    Also (and I know it is in the plan) but international vellum shipping 🩷

  132. I love a good yarn – be it new knitting projects or short story.
    Maud and Arland – proposed nuptials and bloodbath.
    Julie and Derek – where did he get that mint green shiny aura?
    Knight Ryder – it still gives me a chuckle.
    Oooh and The Inheritance(love it)
    All the Teas= my current favorite is fresh lemon myrtle leaves and ginger.
    Thank you for bringing fun and joy into our lives.

    • I dream about Maud & Arland, so ANYTHING about Innkeeper is desperately welcomed. I’d go into gratitude spasms – instantly!

  133. how about a snippet where our favorite Stelka meets our beloved ferrets and discuss who would be better at heists?

  134. I love the writing articles, just whether it comes to planning a book or the details of editing one, I could read it all. So just one or two would be the perfect gift for the end of the year! Love y’all!

  135. Silly question but i always get my email
    A day late. Now i have the app and also follow on threads so i open the email that way.
    Just wondering if there is a reason i get the actual email a day late always, and dies it matter for your numbers?

    • Anytime up to 24 hours after publication is normal 🙂

      The newsletter email goes out to over 55,000 emails at the last count and it is delayed by server permissions and protocols, depending on things like how many links it contains and other stuff above my paygrade.

      Nothing unusual or that we need to know about next day 🙂

  136. More yarn posts. Projects, yarn that we definitely don’t (but absolutely do) need, pretty yarn colours, fun patterns.
    (I’m currently psyching myself up to start a 10 page long double-knitted pattern. I got the yarn, now I just need the sheer nerve.)
    Also, what video games, books, other assorted media is House Andrews enjoying at the moment/would recommend?
    Seeing pretty yarn makes me happy, and one can never have too many media recommendations.

  137. I love what you both & Moderator R are doing — giving us glimpses (good & frustrating) into both your creative & personal lives, and sharing your worlds with us.

    Thank you for everything!

  139. Snippets, snippets, more snippets…cough cough… sorry, got a bit chalant. I also love to hear about what’s going on in the lives of Team Andrews – kids, animals, crafts, recipes, whatever. I just really enjoy and look forward to all the blog posts.

  141. More recommendations! I watched Pursuit of Jade from their recommendation and I think I’ve watched it 5 times now!

  142. Is there any chance of getting a weekly serial started again? The conclusion of the Innkeeper series would be a good choice.

  143. Love the idea of tricks and treats! I was writing a text today and was using a pu word and my predictive text word was Puffles…So.I believe I would like a Puffles post…not a story or anything (cuz that’s short notice!) but maybe some pictures or background or something? I adore Puffles!

  145. Snippets, interviews, crafting, recipes, everyday life (lawn mafia).

    Anything and everything. Thank you

  146. First of all thank you. House Andrews and Mod are wonderful 😊

    Things I’d like more of:
    weird and wonderful research, hobbies, author life, and why when Maggie is clearly awesome you were worried (or Those In Charge of Money) it wouldn’t do well. Can I also just say that I loved with every fiber the research snippet you gave us about Sambocades? 💖💖

  147. Thank you for asking!

    + In your research for Maggie 1, what was the most fascinating thing you learned and why did you learn it? No matter if you ended up using that learning in the book or not.

    + If you could have everything you want as a GOH-pair at a con, what would “Everything” look like? Personal go-fer, catered BDH breakfast, ball pit full of puppies?

    + What does a perfect writing day look like to you? How do you achieve it?

  149. I’m happy with absolutely anything you all want to post and super thankful for all the hard work that you put into the blog!

    I do have a question that’s been rattling around in my brain for a while ( apologies if this is something that has already been answered). How does the “team” authorship work? Is one more fantasy focused? Does Gordon write all the male characters? Who is more bloodthirsty when it comes to battles? Any peek behind that curtain would be a real treat.

  150. I also just love the community and home posts. I can’t understand how Ilona has time and energy to keep writing home nonsense and that home nonsense is fascinating and fun to read……such talent! I just love the randomness of the blog, I love never knowing what I am going to get when I load it!

  151. This is pretty much the only blog I read regularly. I love Ilona & Mod R’s sense of humor. This made me happy…

    ‘There will be giveaways, surprises, snippets, author interviews, spoilers and assorted bits of book-related mischief.’

    Guess my favorite posts are: Free Fiction, pets, family, business/behind-the-scenes updates, fun, food, hobbies, decorating, TV/Movies…all the things!

    Not sure many other readers would be interested, but I would love research/reading recommendations on mythology. So many HA books have fascinating mythology references that have sent me down fun internet rabbit holes. I’ve recently been studying Irish Mythology and the KD series, especially Magic Burns, had that. Does HA remember what texts they’ve read?

    I’ve been having difficulty finding good versions of The four main story ‘cycles’ of early Irish myth and legend: Mythological, Ulster, Fianna, and Kings. I’ve found some texts on archive.org but they are not great. There’s almost nothing in my libraries, there are pieces on Amazon, but it’s difficult sort out the best versions. There’s hardly anything with audio. I was trying to find translations, not retellings.

    Thank You! Staying fluffy, hugs to the busy ferrets☺️

  152. Y’all must be psychic! I was just thinking, “A Frinnday with Victoria and Caldenia would be all kinds of awesome! They’d probably need to be separated before the end because they’d either loathe each other or start conspring together!”

  153. I want more one-shots and web serials. I’m dying for lack of new reading material. The market is so flooded with self-published garbage that it’s hard to pick through it for quality work with, like, character development and an interesting plot. The fascination with making everything dire and dark and devastating is exhausting, too. I just want stories. Interesting stories about complicated, competent people who are actually good enough to make things work well.
    Also, recipes.
    And pets.
    But mostly stories.

  154. SNIPPITS! Those are my favorite.
    Teasers, some mild spoilers for future books and projects are my second favorite. 3rd would be authors you like and would recommend-that’s how I found Elisabeth Wheatley and Jeaniene Frost.

  155. Your past post have always been a delight! They make my day! In recognition of the time and effort they demand may I recommend an auxiliary moderator?

    Steve, here, is a devoted member of the BDH who has exhibited initiative numerous times in service to his fellow BDH. I am confident that he would bring All his enthusiasm to lightening the load for HA and ModR. His needs are modest so he has indicated he will work for snippets.

  156. I would love to hear more about the inspiration for TKWNKM! I am interested in what made the team shift from urban fantasy to high fantasy. Also alllllll the bonus scenarios/chapters always welcome🫶🏻

  157. I’d say yes to all of that and the pet pictures too!

    I know y’all are so busy but I’d love to see new Friday Chat InnTerviews, maybe once a month.

    I just love all Ilona & Gordon books!!! Thank you SO much for creating these amazing worlds to escape into!!!

  160. One of the earlier commenters said they had problems visualizing the written scene and they would like to see the scene. I like my visualizations of your scenes.

    I asked once what HA’s shaggy description of the large elephants in Innkeeper was.I thought it might be like a hairy mammoth. The response said, no it was more like loose skin.

    I thought then about a baker’s description of dough being shaggy after mixing and prepping for kneading. It’s like my 90 year old skin sagging.

    I prefer written descriptions especially in fantasy. I enjoy my imaginations of what the author has written.

  161. I never feel your imaginary friends have said all there is to say. I love your snippets and serials.
    I’m always wondering about something. Why was Roland so obsessed with god blood? What happened between Asconio and Derrick? (A used to be so level headed for a bouda.) What shenanigans did the magic GenZ (ie Baby B, Conlan) get up to? I know there’s no ghosts but I miss Aunt B and Alara.
    I would love a Matilda pov. Really after having so much fun reading Julie’s pov I want all the kids to have their time in the sun.
    I trust your process and expect things will unfold when they’re ready.

  162. Well, snippets are #1….
    Outside of that, I love hearing the process of research done to create such incredible worlds that are cohesive. LOVE that info so much.

  163. Winter series!!!!!!!! Wilmington, Innkeeper- please!!!!!! I miss having something to look forward to. My favorite authors are cutting back, stopping or writing books and series I dont care for.

    I want to know what Kate and Curren are planning to do with the Pack and their new Keep.

    I want to watch Dina and Maude reunite with their parents after a big wedding that had Maude give her old in-laws a jaw dropping comeback.

    I want to see Conlon don blood armor and fight with his parents and have Julie show up (after its safe) and have Kate show up Barret Shaw some more. More Luther Dillon, more everything…

    These are my comfort series. I miss having those Mon/Tues and Friday serial installments to look forward to, when I’d check the blog knowing another little piece of a world I love was waiting for me.

    If I could have one wish-upon-a-star request, it would be to have Wilmington and Innkeeper running as serials at the same time. Two ongoing stories, two sets of characters I’ve missed terribly, and something wonderful to anticipate every week.

    I don’t need a whole new world. I want to spend more time in the ones you’ve already made me love. There are still so many stories left to tell!

    I know I brought up plotlines are arcs not necessarily right for now, but come on…You gave us Beast Business and The Inheritance, but I need some comfort.

  164. Since you’ve gotten at least some people started on soap making, do you have a favorite recipe/scent/technique for pouring?

  167. Ilona and Mod R’s everyday life
    Any and all details about the business of writing
    Checking in with characters from Innkeepers and Hidden Legacy

  168. I like hearing about the ups and downs of writing, and the ups and downs of life. I also like hearing about dogs, cats, fish, etc.

  169. I’d love to see a Friday chat with, e.g., Orro. Your christmas tree is always lovely :). Also, some years ago Kid 1 or 2 (sorry I can’t remember which one it was) made a post with horror recommendations. Any chance she’ll do that again?

  170. I have been wondering and I have re read the books and cannot find the answer, but did Klaus send Kaldenia to Dina?

    • Now that’s a thought! I was wondering how Caldenia ended up in this tiny little unknown inn. I mean, did she really knocked at the doors of several others and was send away because of the danger she was to other guests? Or did she went straight there, already having a plan to find the newest, smallest inn that wouldn’t, couldn’t send her away?

  171. Thanks a lot! I love of course snippets and the fun stories about your home life. It is always nice to have a platform to learn about thoughts from other BDH members. And I am also interested in your insights into publishing – mainly to understand how you and your fellow artists will profit most from my purchases.
    Looking forward to all the future blog entries!

  172. can we have an update on when the next Inheritance book will be as I want to know if Elias has managed to keep the cat creature alive as lets face it he isnt really a pet person

  173. As someone who often runs out of new things to read/watch, I’d love some recommendations on books, games, shows etc 🙂
    But I would be happy with anything from the Author Lords!

  174. I have one question: “During your creative process, let´s say you write book A, but suddenly get inspired to write a completely different story B and then you miss the characters of your book series M and would like to dive into their world again. Does something like this happen to you and how do you handle this?”

  177. hmmm … as a competitive person, I have a blog logistics/timing question please …
    I commented the second after the post popped into my email at 4am US Central on October 21, 2026, but there were already tons of comments posted from October 20, 2026 … does the email notification go out or end up in our inboxes at a different time than when the blog is actually posted on the site? Thank you!

    • Yes, the blog newsletter reaches inboxes up to 24 hours after publishing on the website 🙂.

      The newsletter is distributed separately through an email delivery service, obviously after publishing. That service processes the mailing list, queues messages and hands them off to the various respective email providers of 55 000 people. Those providers then apply their own spam filtering, security checks and delivery protocols.

      So the post may already have plenty of comments by the time your notification arrives. The website itself is always the quickest way to see new posts!

      • Thank you! I may now update my strategy!
        ….plus, thank you for all your comments/info … it’s truly a high point of my day when I am able to click in … always puts a smile on my face! ..ok, except when it’s sad, but I always feel like I’m checking in with family and friends.

  178. I would love some book recommendations! I really loved space opera ones from Jennifer Estep and Jessie Mihalik that were recommended before.

    Dear Mod R, is there a tag on blog for posts with recommendations (books, tv series etc), so I could easier search for previous posts?

  179. I would love to hear about the inner workings of the creative process, especially how Ilona and Gordon go about writing. Do you outline the entire story and then flesh it out while writing or do you just write and go where the muses take you?

  180. I love reading about your writing process, research and inspiration from folklore or history. Insights about publishing and the struggles coming with it are also why I like your blog so much.
    I’m amazed at the quantity and quality of what you post and the care ModR takes of the BDH.
    You are one of the few authors with that kind of commitment to your readers and I’m grateful for it.

  181. I don’t know if it fits here, but could you explain how a US or UK package forwarding service works?
    Some shops do not deliver books to Europe at the moment because of changed legislation. They suggested a Package forwarding Service, but that sounds complicated, when I tried to read about it.

  183. I’d be interested in recommendations in the LitRPG genre. There is so much being published, and too many that give me concerning AI vibes. I’d love to hear about some good titles.

    • Maria – ditto, I have really enjoyed several LitRPG series and then there are some that are so very obviously AI written but somehow still managed to gain lots of five star reviews. So I start and then about two chapters in it morphs into AI written; weird descriptions where everything contradicts itself between chapters. Good recommendations are hard to come by in this type.

  186. I really enjoyed your series about the moment people realised they’re going to be an author. I’d also love to hear what you’re reading or anything you see happening within the publishing industry like interesting trends or changes, any insights into fantasy novels, authors and publishers, really. And keep up the behind-the-scenes posts about knitting, family, pets or life in general.

  187. I would love to hear, what is the most interesting or unexpected information, or the weirdest rabbit hole, you’ve uncovered while researching for a scene?

  188. -I would like to see snippets of TBDH’s writing, if they would like to share.

    -More contests to name things from the book world.

    -More recipes

    -More pics. Especially from their travels.

    -Oooh…maybe a chance at free editing upon winning a writing contest.

    -More pets and miscellaneous animals (We all love animals). A pet pic sharing blog.

  189. I’d be curious about how much outlining happens before writing starts, how much of the novel idea has been collected before that point, and how much is left to develop mid book, and how much it changes. And maybe how that process has evolved over time, if it has, particularly as you’ve gotten to the longer form Maggie books. Thanks! 🙂

  191. I will happily read all the blog posts of any content 🙂

    My random question, though, following an Innkeeper reread – if Dina turns away regular humans from the inn, but has to accept even species she doesn’t want because of Treaty Stay, what would happen if a regular human family-with-kids knocked on the door DURING Treaty Stay? I am so tempted by visions of the Marais extended family arriving en masse for the holidays, unannounced, all expecting to stay in the same guest bedroom…

  192. I have heard apocryphal stories about how author’s research has landed them in hot water. Any fun stories that you guys have?

  193. I would like more insight in how you both unwind with hobbies after the pressure cooker you have been putting yourselves through with the Kingdom wfforts.

  195. I’m curious about publishing practices like “print on demand” and when that happens. How much control do you have over your back catalogue, and does it vary publisher to publisher?
    Related side note: When I ordered “Blood Heir” from Indigo Books (Canada) a few years ago, the copy that arrived had the correct cover but the completely wrong internal text. Instead of the book by House Andrews, the book inside was “Veterinary Homeopathy in its Application to the Horse” from 1896. I got a refund to get the actual book, but Indigo also let me keep the print-on-demand mistake. One of the weirder things on my bookshelf!

  196. I would love to hear more about your brainstorming process to arrive at your awesome ideas. I love to write and would adore to hear what works for you.
    Thank you!! Your books and stories have given me such delight in our rather dark world.

  197. I would like to know how you decide what to work on. You have so many stories at this point, and different options. How much of the decisions are based on the ideas in your head vs the dollars that line brought in.
    Second, I really want to know what is up with Roman. He needs a good woman!

  198. I’d like to know what your writing process is, how you first built up your reader base and got people to read your books, and any writing tips for writers just starting out.

  199. Yay, treats!

    I would like to have for christmas… uh, like to see on the blog some tipps how I keep writing. I have a good story, but I just write in creative bursts and than nothing for months.
    Maybe it’s my ADHD – okay, yes, that’s the most common description of ADHD workings, I know – but I really, really want to write this story down.
    (Still unsure if I want others to read it, but I need to write it. Before I forget the feelings in it, if that makes sense).

    Thank you so much for this blog. It’s something shiny in my mailbox that makes me happy.

  200. I’m sure as a couple writing together there are times that you disagree in your vision for a character or a plot twist or even a line of dialogue. How do you work out disagreements writing together to maintain a story’s integrity?

    Do either of you write solo? With a pseudonym?

  201. I love the weird and wonderful research, I always find it interesting to see what authors research and what they find. Also, I love hearing about your gaming. As an avid gamer who plays a lot of the same games, I enjoy reading about other people’s exploits in the games. And lastly, recommendations. You guys always have the best recommendations for stuff (I love the label printer that you suggested, I got one and I needed it so bad but didn’t realize it).

  202. please, Please, PLEASE!! When are you going to finish the Inkeeper series? We’ve been hanging on that cliff for a long time now.

  204. All the things please! I love this blog because it’s got a bit of everything and it’s fun to read. Bookish stuff and insight into HA writing, snippets, recipes, tea, slice of life, cats, yarn, cute plushies, BDH games, inkeeper interviews, recommendations, advice, news – everything and anything you wanna write about the BDH is here to devour!!
    Thank you!! 🥰

  205. I would love to hear more about non-book things and recommendations. I know Maggie has taken precedence but if all the other projects haven’t gone away what’s up with Hugh? Thank you!

  206. hmmm……what does The Horde want? Innkeeper! More Hugh! Julie! Ada! Bear!!! KAAAAATE!!!!!

    Are you all buried under a deluge of identical demands?!

    I love anything and everything you guys out on the blog happy with anything!!

  208. I would like to hear more about the small side things that you might not have initially thought to share. Like I loved it when you gave us a tour of your desk figurines and when you told us about your fish tanks! I’d love to see *your bookshelves . Do you have other tchotchke‘s that the Horde might appreciate (we love small, cute, shiny, sentimental, etc.). Do you have a favorite spoon? Thank you!

  209. My husband says he wants a sequel to Maud’s story. I know you’re exhausted from writing this year but I’m letting him put this here because it’s his favorite and often it’s my favorite too.
    I would say if I could have anything (I mean we can dream, right?), it would be a new series like Innkeeper or Kate Daniels. what I mean by that is actually relatively clean if not actually really clean – I’ve noticed an uptick in swearing and sex and I know that’s what sells but I actually appreciate when you guys use other words (I mean you make up all the other things after all) and focus on the plot instead. My teenagers, including my college student, actually asked for that too. (I told them you were taking requests for the blog and well, we went crazy…. sorry…. sending love….)
    Also any chance you’ll be in Arizona/Utah any time this next year? 😁

  210. I’d like to know the brain process of your books. What comes first, the idea or the outline? Do you know where the book is going from the start or is it organic? Do both of you have the same idea or do you feed off each other? Is one better at the action and one the sex? No I’m not a writer nor am I creative enough to even begin to be. Your books are just mind boggling good.

    • And the research stuff. Does that come first or after? Because if it is first, I am so IMPRESSED that you know all these random interrelated minutia!

  211. The Asian romance drama recommendation of Pursuit of Jade which came through this blog led me down a rabbit hole from which I have yet to emerge. Cross-cultural romance series/translated books recommendations which offer a glimpse of romance stories in other cultures would be welcome. Only problem with some of these Asia high dramas is that about half the time everyone dies at the end!

  212. As the name suggests, we love to devour books by the horde! (In 2020, I had time to read almost 500 books).
    I cannot tell you how many times in my life I have been in that place where “I have read every good book in existence and NOW what do I do!?!?!”
    We need book & author recs, please!

  213. The variety of things shared on this blog are what makes it fun. You guys share about your life, the good, the bad and the ugly, the joys and pain of the creative process, talk about how you create your worlds. And of course you giving Jeanine Frost’s reaction when you say you are working on a short story..

    I would personally love to hear more about the creative process, stories about times when you guys disagreed and how you came to settle it , the most difficult scenes to write , the ones you both enjoy the most.

  214. I’d love to see some pictures of whatever sort of notes you take when plotting and crafting worlds. Maybe from Kate or more finished series so it doesn’t give anything away.

    Do you have charts? Maps? a wall of pictures and character descriptions? Crazy police-style investigation boards with string?

  215. I would love your pop culture recs, what you’re reading, watching, listening to etc.

    I also found the audible breakdown this week really fascinating- would be happy to see more posts like that.

  216. I’d like to know how you keep all the details straight when writing a complex series. My imagination sends me to an extensive Excel spreadsheet or an extra large white board with lots and lots of sticky notes. Or, do you just keep everything in those beautiful brains?

  217. I would like to hear about the Kid’s book. I really enjoyed the snippet from way back but I don’t know if it’s been published yet or what name the Kid writes under so I can’t look for it.

  219. What a lovely invitation! I’ve been reading the blog for about six months now. Maggie inspired me to listen to all of Kate Daniel’s and the Legacy series while gardening this summer – it was bliss! I agree with what so many other folx have posted – you are fun and generous, and pretty much EVERYTHING has been a delight to read. (I do have to admit that I do t really understand the vellum thing, but it sounds like it was a nightmare).

    So, here’s my rec, or maybe request? Have you thought of a “favorite post” series? Maybe one from HA and one from the Horde? The lawn gnomes were before my time, but it made me smile to know that that post brought such joy to others. The archives are extensive, and a “fan favorites” or “HA Top 10 (25? 100?)” would be a super-fun way to relative newbies like me to go exploring…..

    Thanks for considering it!

    J
    PS. This post goes to 55,000 people?!? Wow! I mean, I knew the Horde was big, but, just……wow.

  220. I want to hear about surprise announcements of new book release from House Andrews with the publication happening within the month!!

  223. I have a writing / publishing question. You’ve spoken before about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the problems it has caused for authors as well as creative concerns. I was curious how AI has influenced the publishing landscape in general and how it is being used as a benefit.

    I would also love snippets, news in general, and puffles. I can be p*atient for the other books.
    I think….

  224. This blog is one of the highlights of my week and I adore the app. So thank you for being diligent with posts and Mod R for keeping us Hordelings in line.

    I’d love to hear about the fun and weird research tidbits or your favorite places to look. As a TTRPG editor I know I look up weird things all the time and horde all the good resources for later consumption or distribution.

    Thanks!

  225. I am happy to be surprised. I like book recommendations, insight into character development, weird little side stories etc. Oh! Recipes. Please.

  227. More Inheritance, more Hidden Legacy! Now that I know more Maggie is coming, feed me more… I will buy it the day it comes out.

  228. I love the book recommendation blogs – I always get great recommendations, both from them and the readers. I would love those kind of posts to pop up more frequently.

  229. Hi
    I would love to hear more about the innkeeper back stories.
    I know the next installment is in process. And I can’t wait
    Thx

  230. i have been a fan ever since the very first Kate Daniels book. you are absolutely my favorite author(s).
    Unfortunately you do NOT write fast enough so i guess i’d really like to see more recommendations for other books and authors from you, especially in the fantasy/sci fi/progression litrpg genres. i always read the books you’ve mentioned and Cradle by Will Wight was fantastic.
    also, i really really miss your serial Innkeeper posts. the Innkeeper is just lovely and i am anxiously waiting for Dina to find her parents.

  231. I love or like most of your posts, but if I had to come up with something, maybe a “Best of the Blog” once or twice a month? Or every couple of months? Where you re-post some of the more popular blog posts? For instance, the Lawn Orphans post, the Alphahole post, the Little Red Riding Hood writing post… and there was one that I particularly enjoyed, but the details are a bit vague to me now…

    I think it was about the inclusion of sex in your books, how some people don’t want it at all and try to dictate to you that you shouldn’t include it, how people handled sex talk with their children, how many children self-censor when reading, how people’s parents handled sex talk with them… The post may have been in response to some comments that were posted in response to an Innkeeper serial installment.

  233. I love to hear about the research that goes into your writing! tell me all the research rabbit holes and the one sentence they relate to in the book 😂

  234. I wouldn’t mind getting more stories and pics of the four legged members of the Andrew’s family

  235. would like to hear about your pets, kid1 and 2, and whether there is/will be a new HA author and if so under what pen name. and if course also anything about books…

  237. Since I first started reading Ilona Andrews I have been wondering how Ilona and Gordon work together. It looks like. ilona is the one typing the text, and there was once a blog entry about the two of you working out a fight scene – but how do you build the story (line) and how do you decide who has the better idea.💡 💡💡💡💡

  238. I would love to hear more about the process Ilona and Gordon use for writing together. Does one draft and the other edit? Do they role play different characters to create dialogue? Does it differ by book? Who writes the steamy scenes?

  239. I love the crochet and yarn snippets. Maybe soap making too!
    A POV from Caldenia from Sweep of the Heart or, better yet, the next book.
    Anything else you can think of will be welcome.

  240. This is a no rush question but I just need confirmation will we get another inn keeper chronicles book!? Dina deserves to get her parents back <3

  241. This is VERY random but I want to take advantage of this amazing generosity to BDH – first, it would be amazing to get a snippet Adaline and Elias…love that storyline so much…
    Second, in my 500th reread of all of the Hidden Legacy books (it’s my comfort read, and it’s been a YEAR, y’all!) I realized I have no idea who Regina’s dangerous cousin is….small detail but it’s bugging me…
    Much appreciation for the blog and free fiction….

  242. Thanks for asking! I like the current content and variety of the blog and read every post. My wish list would be more snippets, and less about the publishing process. Have a great day!

  244. I would love to see some old content resurface on the blog. Snippets, short stories, etc. The end of the year is a time for reflection so It would be fun to look back to where you started or rehash some old favorites while learning about the new.

  245. I have always enjoyed the mix of newsletter topics: information about the publishing world, personal/hobby type posts, snippets, random thoughts of the day. I only read about 10 suggestions down the list in the comments here, but I liked people’s specific ideas! I don’t interact much on here, but I do enjoy the posts – and comments when I have extra time to read them. Rah, Rah Team Andrews, Mod R, and BDH! 🙂

  246. Did they really just ask us that?!?! We are the Book Devouring HORDE! We want it ALL. Challantly of course.
    1) Snippits are always welcome
    2) Surveys are fun
    3) Daily frustrations are comforting. Sometimes life beats up on us here in this house and it can be wonderful to know we are not alone in ready to storm the castle.

  247. I’m in the process of reading The Raven Scholar. A couple of chapters in I went looking for a horde and it didn’t exist. So honestly, the fact that you guys post as much as you do and your readers get to discuss as much as they do, is unique and I love anything you want to put out there. Thank you.

  248. I would like an update on all the Andrews animals! I love those posts involving Tuna and all the pups. ❤️

  249. I actually like the mish-mash you do. I don’t like every single topic as much, but lots of people seem to.

  250. I’d like a blog on how the two of you actually work at a scene or chapter. Do you talk out what you’re want write? then one of you actually writes it and the other edits it? Or does one of you write all the romance scenes and the other one writes all the fight scenes? I just can’t visualize how you two do this.

  253. Hi. Things I like…All the things of course.
    Seeing it naturally. If authors likes to know something..put in
    If authors wants to share..put in..ect
    then live and collect all the $.
    P.S. Started reading with short stories and would purchase more of those.
    All are good. I go back and read those a lot. While waiting for the precious
    that I appreciate. Thank you Andrews House team for the magic & posts.

  254. Hi. Things I like…All the things of course.
    Seeing it naturally. If authors likes to know something..put in
    If authors wants to share..put in..ect
    then live and collect all the $.
    P.S. Started reading with short stories and would purchase more of those.
    All are good. I go back and read those a lot. While waiting for the precious
    that I appreciate. Thank you Andrews House team for the magic & posts.

  255. Honestly, I love reading whatever you all feel like yapping about, it’s always a great time on this blog. That said, some of my favorite posts have been when Ilona talks about her hobbies, like fiber arts and tea, when there are recommendations for media like video games and TV shows (got me looking at C-dramas, thank you!), and when you all geek out over research rabbit holes for world building.

  256. Would love to continue to hear about the yarn Ilona is buying and what she is making with it. Also, all the hobbies and pets. Snippets of life

  257. Pet posts! We love pet posts. Love the posts about PC games that you are playing as well. Also love the author issues type posts, what the author can and cannot control, how things work in the writing field etc. Thanks!

  259. I’m more interested in the mechanics of writing, the creative inspiration, the research, and also how the two of you write together. I’ve read information from other authors that have co-written books and it sounds like some of them share certain areas, but I just wondered how the two of you share the work and the writing.

    And how do you decide what book you’re going to write next? Do the books scream out, “Me next, me next!”? Or is it a more logical process.

    I’ll be honest, I’m not that interested in tea, recipes and hobbies, etc, but that’s me.

    And one more last thing. I don’t like looking at book art. Obviously most people here do, judging from the comments, but I don’t because the art I see never, ever matches what I envision in my head when I think of that character. But did that art match what you see when you think of the characters you created? Or is it used as more of a vehicle to sell books (no criticism here—obviously you need to market the books).

    Regardless, thank you for your writing. I love every single book of yours that I’ve ever read and I’ve happily read them over and over again

  260. ADA & ELIAS or Benjiro & Penny, or finding out more in the Innkeeper series.

    maybe even weird frinnday interviews

  262. I would love to hear more about your creative process and even how that looks similar and different for both of you (and the way you make working together part of that). There is so much focus on end products and it has been a gift to me whenever I can get a glimpse into how others are engaging in process since that is the space I find most life giving when I can manage to be in it.

  263. I like when you recommend other books or art or any topics that is related to the world of writing (the writing process is of course interesting). I would like to know what you think of certain topics today that may be incorporated into your books in the future- like climate change, forests being destroyed, biodiversity loss, wars, diseases etc. I know fiction books are a way to escape reality, but that is why these topics should be written about because they might help open people’s eyes about the realities of today. Like how fairy tales teach kids about life lessons on life you know?

  264. My goodness gracious, do you have more time in your day than the rest of us? How are you able to do all the things you do??? Case in point: yesterday I had to pack up two boxes, one to brother in northeastern PA, the other to sister-in-law in Australia, and as I was sweating through the customs form, I did pause and think about all the envelope stuffing and mailing in the THOUSANDS and I was wiped after packing two fragile boxes!!! Yes I also baked cookies and washed and hung out laundry and took out all the trash and played with cat and discovered yet another rodent living in my car eeek but that ain’t nuttin’ compared to the Andrews’ – Andrews’s – level of intense productivity. I salute you from SoCal. Please come to Palm Springs sometime and I will bring you made from scratch from premium ingredients nutty Choco Chip cookies.

  265. I love the non-IA book stuff too! Recs for other reads, a tea you like, a show we should watch, a great gift you’re giving/getting, the last weird reddit hole you found yourself down…

  266. Reading wish list:
    1) Arabella’s HEA. Doesn’t have to be 3, 2 or even one book. A novella would suffice. Does she end up with a Russian prince in Houston?
    2) Ditto to most commenters’ suggestions.

  267. Weird and wonderful sounds great. I prefer the random ones more than author interviews, etc., for sure. Everything else I really want I shall not mention because I am trying to be a responsible Horde member and practice p*tience 😬.

  269. I like it all! Book stuff is always fun. Hearing what shennanigans Steve is up to. And the non-book stuff too – like snippets of every day life, recipes, yarn things, pet photos, etc. But most of all, stuff that isn’t too taxing, your brain needs a break!

  270. Storylines you wanted to do yet realized wouldn’t work…

    Characters you developed and loved yet realized they didn’t fit the landscape of your WIP and if you saved them for a diffent book.

    Is there a book genre you are hoping to break into.

  271. Some time ago there was a picture of some brown and white/cream yarn and a sweater pattern. Did that get made? How was the pattern? I liked how it looked but am always hesitant. Maybe Dina can take up knitting. Baby booties?

  272. Oh man… I am such a needy member of the BDH…

    I need more of ALL THE THINGS.

    But what I really need is some assurance that Team Metal Rose will get closure at some later date.

    And I need Maggie to give Latour a piece of her mind.

  273. I’d like more books for the Innkeepers and what’s next? for the Breach Wars. Do you have a plan or schedule? The parents still aren’t Found and omg.. holes into Earth- an invasion?? And how about Kate and their new home? You have lots of characters left to play with in the Legacy series too. I’ll commit a sin and say I’m not as “into” Maggie as I am to these others.

  275. Generally, I would love to hear about how you manage to keep the momentum and care for your characters and your story after the (feels like) 300,000th rewrite. Do you just start sacrificing things so you can get to the end?

  276. First and foremost, thank you. In 2016, the Kate Daniels series provided a perfect escape during a rough patch in my life; for a few hours each day, I could transport myself to post-shift Atlanta, and I am forever grateful. A decade later, when life got overwhelming again, the Innkeeper Chronicles provided that same much needed respite. Your incredible storytelling gave me the space to reset, and the inspiration and courage to face my own challenges.
    If you ever share insights into your creative process, I would love to learn more about your approach to world-building. What inspires your settings, characters, and plotlines, and how do you keep track of all the moving parts in your series?

  277. I would love to see more reccomended reading/shows/movies/games and such either from what you’re currently embibing or from the past that may have inspired/shaped your writing styles today. Like what books were you reading as teens or young adults.

    Also love weird research deep dives!

  278. I’d love to read about the behind the scenes of writing process, of what your working on, the ups and downs of it all. I’d also be curious about the planning stage of a book and also how you feel the future of writing and art with AI taking up so much space will be.

  280. More Innkeeper stories, please! there are a lot of dangling threads, not the least of which – where, oh where, are Dina’s parents????!

  281. Definitely publishing updates and any extra content is cool. Love hearing about the writing process but don’t feel that the blog has to take over your lives. Updates on appearances and contests are welcome as well (just in case you ever come close to my neck of the woods). 🙂

  282. I know I’m a little late on this, but updates on the state of the publishing world for new authors are always welcome. I’ve just finished the first draft of a manuscript, and it seems like traditional fantasy is not in style at the moment.

  284. (I have a mental picture of Mod R reading each post, and either adding something to a long list, or making a checkmark next to an already-listed item.)

    Thank you, Mod R, for all of your hard work in helping to keep the BDH whelmed!

  285. First of all, thank you for everything you do! I would love to hear anything you could tell us about the futures of Julie/Derek’s and Elara/Hugh’s stories.

  286. I would love to hear about the roads not taken–possible plot events, characters, etc. that you decided to abandon (particularly within TKWNKM, but also in any of your series). What are some of the biggest things that you added/changed in each series in response to editorial feedback? I know you’ve said in the past that Maggie was originally written as a slice of life adventure until your editor/publisher asked for more tension. What elements of the story were already there, and what was added as a result of that feedback?

    I also love to hear about everything related to your writing process, the business side of life as an author, books you recommend, and everything else. (And, above all else, snippets/stories, of course! But that goes without saying….)

  290. Thank you for asking!

    1) Favorite comfort meals
    2) Pet stories
    3) Reading recommendations
    4) What inspires you and the AuthorAristos
    5) Tea recommendations

    Anything you want to know about us?

  291. I love snippets.

    The Inn Keeper interviews were great (especially since we got to play detective and analyze if there were clues about a character .

    Slice of life is also fun, mostly because the way you tell them is entertaining.

  294. I’m a big fan of deleted scenes and secondary character side quests. It’s fun to imagine what kind of impish shenanigans or general jackassery they were instigating or ensnared in when they weren’t in the room with the main characters. I’d read a book of those related, but outside-the-scope-of-the-main-series tangents over and over again even if most of the stories were only a few pages long. The change in perspective is interesting and it’s nice to see the authors have fun with characters they didn’t get to spend much time with while writing the series.

  295. Recommendations, weird and wonderful research, hobbies. And SNIPPETS!!! I love character interviews, tweets from characters, and anything where I get to go visit my beloved characters!! Thank you!

  296. I love the snippets. I MISS weekly (or even monthly) Innkeeper/ Kate etc chapters.
    I LOVE daily life/animal adventures/recipes/knitting/and Mod R entries!
    Just PLEASE make sure you are all taking good care of your health and happiness so you can keep sharing your lives with us? Frankly, I live alone and I’m 75+ and lonely. I feel welcome here. I know we aren’t friends in person, but my heart feels great affection for you and BDH. I feel at home here.
    love and hugs for all in need,
    Joy

  297. When will “The Inheritance” sequel be available?

    When will the “Iron and Magic” sequel be available?

  298. This is not related to your questions but I have been thinking about this question for a while.
    When Kate claimed Atlanta, Luther Dillon did not know (Magic Shifts chaper 6) and even asked Kate if she felt something different about the city. But in all subsequent books it seem like he knows she has claimed the city and who she is. When/How did he gain that knowledge? Did she ever explain the claiming to Luther?

  299. I have zero interest in your writing process. I feel it’s a personal thing & I should stay out. I love your writing & am very happy to pay for it! The topic of publication is tedious at best. To say the least. I love hearing about your hobbies. Yarn dilemmas, color choices —although I confess to being puzzled about some color choices. I suppose I expected much more in the way of jewel tones. Computer games are a bit of a stretch. Tales of cats & dogs are awesome. LOVE food talk, recipes, even very basic ones, maybe especially those, sometimes. Normal, boring everyday life stuff is very good too. Please yourself with what you want to share.

  300. I am interested to know how you choose the names of your characters and if you have ever been tempted to give the names of people you don’t like or who have treated you unkindly to characters who embarrass themselves? Thanks so much for all the books, they have brought so much joy to my life.

  301. I really enjoy the often hilarious odds and ends from HA’s daily life, because they are conveyed with same wry humor that attracts me to their fiction. Doesn’t matter: a recipe, a pet story, the trials of home ownership and parenting. The kind of thing you tell a friend at lunch as part of catching up. It’s so generous of HA to share these bits of their lives and I understand if they don’t want to share more. But those and the fiction snippets are my favorites.

  302. Maybe we could revisit and add a bit to treasured snippets from the past? Especially one that has never left the minds and hearts of the BDH.
    After all, it was our first flying dragon with a girl on its back from HA.
    Of course I’m asking for Steve…

  304. I have been wondering about the polhe and what inspired the steps. I’ve been trying to find similar dances in history but nothing really stuck out to me.
    Also really curious about the pricing system in Rellas and how it is determined.

  305. I love the snippets and, well, everything. So thank you! Appreciate the time and effort that is put into this blog.

  309. Fun random life stories, book snippets, updates on books you’re reading that you like… pics of the fiber projects… tea…

  310. Probably a little weird, but ever since I read Hugh’s book I’ve wondered what song do you think represents the characters best (overall or at a particular point in the story)?

    I think it was the Depeche Mode for the wedding that triggered this, and I’ve wanted to ask this forever. Demolition Man would have been my first pick prior to reading his story.

  311. I would appreciate a tea post. I love florals and fruity, hibiscus and more. I know you are tea experts and would love to know where you purchase your specialty teas and why you love them. I do think you like stronger teas than I do but I’d love to hear more. Also, where would a beginning knitter start? Can it be done at home or do you need a class? Is a shawl easier than a scarf? Just a few thoughts… of course, anything book related or what you are think about writing in the future. Maggie is all encompassing right now but this, too, shall pass. Thank you! Oh, one more thing… is it ever possible to purchase a bookmark(s)? For those of us who don’t travel much to book fairs? Thx again.

  313. I must admit I love all the “Just Life” posts including furry family updates, knitting updates (all the yarn!) and tea and other obsession updates 🙂

  316. I have always wondered what happened in the catacombs. A short story or scene on the blog would be awesome

  317. I’m interested in:
    Serial stories
    Free stories
    Recipes
    Snippets on daily life
    Pets

    I’m not interested in:
    Paper books, including commemorative and special editions
    Cover art
    Vellum (anything)
    Publishing process
    Writing advice

  318. I’d love to get snippets of bits that were edited out, and reasons for not making it to the final cut. I’d also like any interesting tidbits while researching for your books. For instance, your post on researching horse breeds.

  319. This isn’t about writing, but sometimes you post about life. I’m in Northern Ontario: digging potatoes in the kitchen garden this week (late), planting tulips and garlic (late), piling wood, and getting ready for snow. You occasionally post about the impossibility of keeping plants alive in the Texas summer heat, and I’d be interested in hearing about what happens outdoors in other seasons. (My first post was going to be “snippets! snippets! snippets!” but I figure that goes without saying. )

  320. I really enjoy all the peeks into your everyday lives whether it be renovations or knitting. It’s nice to get out of my own head every now and then.

    About the writing, I would love to know what a typical (writing) work day looks like. How many hours are you even able to write during a day before your brain refuses to brain anymore?

  321. MoRE! lol I would like to see Arabella transform to her beast for whatever reason (play with a prehistoric mammoth but that’s an improbable crossover) and some more about what else is in those prehistoric, magic warehouses? How are the herds of animals doing (babies)? OH and how is Bucky doing? Did he have any (possibly) unicorn foals? Is Tulip one of his foals? Enquiring minds want to know! I’d love a short or a snippet. lol

    • I forgot! Magic Clams! are they growing in number, like natural clam beds do? Are they edible? Do they have side effects? Enquiring minds. 🙂

  324. I just love Ilonas funny take her actual life. Kid 2 vs the Lawn Mower mafia and the Bulldog Gets a bath are two I have saved to reread.

  325. I’d love to hear more of how you came up with the magic systems from hidden legacy and Kate Daniels? They are so interesting and complex in a way that makes fantasy to feel real.

  327. I’m always happy to hear about cooking and crafting. I have simple needs… [censored mention about devouring books as a part of a horde]

    Oh, and book recommendations are always welcome. (It might not crank my tractor, but I’m always happy to hear about the existence of awesome reads—so far, the horde has added two new favourite authors to my rotation, Ilona has added at least one, and a smart comment by a horde member led me to her author page and into discovering her books.)

  328. I would appreciate a “catch me up” post on book devouring horde culture with links to original blog post favorites. Sorry, I haven’t been here for the long haul, but I would love to be in on the lingo.

  329. I have thought of better questions:

    What grammar rule do Ilona and Gordon fight over (or used to fight over)?

    How do you decide who to dedicate a book to and how has that changed over time?

    All authors have so many people in the acknowledgements. What roles are people typically thanking and what does that person do in the process of creating a book?

  330. When will we get the sequel to iron and magic or sweep of the blade? The cliffhangers are killing me!