Pushing Through Writer’s Block

Did you ever have one of those days or series of days, or even weeks when you are not motivated to write? I am talking to you—writer, scribbler, journalist, blogger, term-paper writer and editor. I can push through it most times and once I am rolling, there is no stopping me. Sometimes I write so fast that I have to go back and re-write something so that it has a clearer presentation to the reader. But, there are days when I am not motivated to write at all. I try to do some everyday and the goal is anywhere from 500-2000 words or so. If I can land in that area, I am satisfied. Anything below is disappointing, but sometimes unavoidable if I have other pressing business. Anything above that mark is considered a good day. 

I think that every writer hits the wall and the best thing is to step away, clear the head and do something else for at least a few hours. Usually removing yourself form the environment is best, so taking a walk, watching a bit of mindless TV or maybe spending some time with those people you live with (yes, your family) can be just what we need. Even reading a bit sometimes motivates me to get back to the computer and start anew.

But, what if you don’t have the time to walk away? A deep breath, a quick count to ten and maybe a refresh of your beverage is going to have to do. I would try to avoid this as much as possible, but sometimes we cannot.

What are some tricks or ideas that some of you kind folks out there in cyberspacehave that might get our struggling writer back into the proper frame of mind to continue their plot, story, article or term paper? 

Please share your thoughts. As always, I look forward to your comments!

See you in Wothlondia! Cheers!

Please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience, see direct links to purchase Covenant of the Faceless Knights and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

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All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios, LLC 2011 unless otherwise noted

What Are You Thankful For?

Let me start by saying THANK YOU to the fans, friends, family and complete strangers that have supported me in my, albeit brief, writing career! But, I have only just begun!

I continue to be both astounded and delighted by the support from people I have met through social media who support me just because. I am extremely grateful and humbled by you all!

My family and I have been through a lot in the past few years: the loss of my gainful employment two years ago, losing my father unexpectedly last year ,and various other life-changing and sobering events that happened to my mother and brother, too. Yet, despite all of the unpleasantries, I try each day to climb above the adversity and distractions to push on with my dream. I do not let these events deter me from reaching my goal--instead I find they give me inspiration to carry on and to give this the best effort that I can muster.

I am thankful for my close friends, the few who have given me inspiration and encouragement when I may have doubted myself. I am thankful for my mother and father, for instilling the unrelenting work ethic and for giving me the courage and inspiration to follow my heart, wherever that may lead. 

I am thankful for my brother and sister, who keep our family emotionally strong throughout every rough patch that we experience. I am thankful for my sons, who continue to inspire me with their growth, consideration and wisdom that contradicts their young age. And I am thankful above all else for my loving and understanding wife, for being my rock and supporting me throughout all of my ups and downs.

So, I ask you:

What are you most thankful for?

See you in Wothlondia! Cheers and Happy Thanksgiving, all!

Please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience, see direct links to purchase Covenant of the Faceless Knights and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

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All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios, LLC 2011 unless otherwise noted.

Spotlight: ELEC STORMWHISPER

I received a piece of artwork from a friend and fellow author, William Kenney and was inspired. So, I decided to do a piece on the high elf from Acillia from Covenant of the Faceless Knights.

Elec Stormwhisper—Elec is a high elf in the Realm of Ashenclaw. He hails from the island home of Acillia where he and his people lead a secluded lifestyle. They participate with the other races in trading goods and services when need be and involve themselves only in times of great need.

Elec Stormwhisper by William Kenney

 All high elves have a natural aptitude for the arcane arts, unlike the forest elves, who prefer the use of bows and swords instead. Elec did not show signs of arcane mastery, much to the chagrin of his father, Keryth. Instead, he excelled in the areas of alchemy as well as disciplines that involved cunning and use of his dexterous digits, including designing, building and disarming mechanical traps.

Elec also trained for several years with his Uncle Faorath in the areas of training exotic pets—specifically giant eagles—in the ways of befriending them and using them as flying mounts. These talented few are called the Wind Riders of Acillia.

On many special celebrations and prior to leaving on his mission as an envoy, Elec was gifted with many ancient elven magical items by his uncle, who continues to support and encourage the young elf in any way he can.

Elec has dark hair and white pupils—both unusual features for the high elves, who usually tend toward eyes of blue, amber, violet or green and hair that ranges in color from silver to gold. Elec is a very insecure combatant, he often compensates for his lack of natural prowess with his constant use of combat-enhancing alchemical elixirs, which in his mind, he has perfected. He often experiments on himself, using different combinations that meet with varying results. He is understandably an expert in the surrounding fields of alchemy and botany.

Elec uses two very unique weapons, a longsword named Daegnar Giruth. He also has a second weapon, a dagger called Wyrm's Fang. Here is an excerpt describing each...

Daegnar Giruth was readily in his right hand. It was a magnificently crafted sword, fashioned of ancient magic with runes about the blade. Its hilt was long enough that Elec could wield it with two hands, yet light enough to use it with one. It also possessed an unearthly power that could drain a portion of physical strength from an enemy with every slash of its fine edge.... 

Shifting his hand to the center of his swords hilt to balance it in one hand, he reached under his cloak to his belt and he withdrew a second weapon. Wyrm’s Fang was its name. It was a dagger so sharp that he had once used it to cut into stone without so much as dulling the blade...

See you in Wothlondia! Cheers!

Please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience, see direct links to purchase Covenant of the Faceless Knights and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios, LLC 2011 unless otherwise noted. Artwork provided by William Kenney.

Y.A. Fantasy Taking Over?

Is it me or are most of the popular fantasy novels (and any other genre for that matter) catering to the Young Adult market? Harry Potter and Twilight are two huge examples of what I am talking about. Those two franchises are unbelievably successful and I chalk it up to gearing the novels towards teenagers. That age group seems to be a good decision for two reasons: Time and expendable cash….

I don’t know about you, but when I was a teen, I had to worry about making enough money for my comic book addiction, gas for my car and even car insurance. I did not have to decide whether or not to buy the book I wanted to read or make the mortgage payment! Most teens seem to have an abundance of time and possibly, some spending cash—so why not market books to them. Some of the most popular books and movies that I have mentioned are geared for them. And yet, many adults are watching now, too. So, as I can see it, the steps are to write the first novel or two specifically for that target audience and then move to a darker and possibly more adult-minded ending…is that about right? I really don’t know as I have not read any of these series, but I have seen some of the movies.

I personally like my vampires less sparkly and more evil (30 Days of Night comes to mind) and my wizards need to be…well, older, I guess. (See Elminster and Gandolph) I will say that both J. K. Rowling and Stephenie Meyer are innovators, incredible business people and they have both impacted the worlds of fantasy like no one since the great
J. R. R. Tolkien. They have succeeded in opening up a whole new generation to the genre, so kudos for that. And any artist that gets people reading is OK in my book! (pun intended)


Are Y.A. titles such as Twilight and Harry Potter taking over the fantasy genre? Are Forgotten Realms, Dragonlance and Middle Earth a thing of the past? As always, I am looking forward to your opinions!

 
See you in Wothlondia! Cheers!

Please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience, see direct links to purchase Covenant of the Faceless Knights and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

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All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios, LLC 2011 unless otherwise noted.

Gender Stereotypes in Fantasy

I was recently thinking about what the general public thinks of gender stereotypes, specifically in fantasy novels….

When I sat down to write Covenant of the Faceless Knights, I wanted to create a core group of characters that were slightly different from the norm, but not so different that I would get bored of writing about them! I knew from the start that I wanted to write a series, which meant several books about the same characters and their interaction in my Realm of Ashenclaw setting. I began to create my core group of characters, I set out with a specific goal in mind, like when I created the female barbarian character, Saeunn of Chansuk, for instance. I wanted a physically strong female role to ride into battle with a greatsword strapped to her back, unleashing fury on the wrongdoers of Wothlondia instead of the typical male warrior. I felt that this might attract a new breed of fantasy reader that might welcome a strong female warrior type that could deliver hardcore action! This was a conscious decision. As was the naïve and non-violent male elf. I wanted to portray a sheltered elf that could possibly have existed for some forty years of age, but had never really experienced much in the way of the world and especially combat.

Another strong female role was the thief archetype, Rose Thorne. I wanted to cast away the idea that the woman here was simply a presence that remained in the back and supported the group. I wanted to have her possess a dark side as well as have a strong role in the group. She also uses a strong sarcasm to deflect attention and her wise cracks will only grow as she gets to know the group.

There is also a very strong female type in the core group of antagonists, a succubus named Phaera Sine, who uses her wiles and charms (both naturally and supernaturally) to influence certain events taking place. She is pertinent in the architecture of the overarching storyline as well as inserting herself and her people as a dominant role in significant future events. She was detailed a bit here on Succubus.net.


So, how do you like your characters? Do you want to see the damsel in distress or the woman that can not only handle herself, but might beat you in an arm-wrestling contest?

Do you need to have your men in the front lines or can they take a back seat in a support role?

Let me know your thoughts—I’d love to hear from you all!

See you in Wothlondia! Cheers!

Please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience, see direct links to purchase Covenant of the Faceless Knights and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

Photos from Stock.xchng.

All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios, LLC 2011 unless otherwise noted.

Another Excerpt from Covenant of the Faceless Knights...

Another excerpt from Covenant of the Faceless Knights for my tweeps and Fans on Facebook for #SampleSunday! Enjoy, my friends and have an excellent weekend!

Garius Forge of the Order of the Faceless Knights as depicted by William J. Kenney

Blow after blow rang out—hammer hitting staff and vice-versa. Sparks flew from the impact, with neither of the two combatants gaining any ground. For several rounds of blows, they exchanged forceful strikes with their respective weapons, neither of them scoring a hit on anything but the other’s weapon. They finally backed away from one another, simultaneously realizing their futility.

The shaman charged Garius again, trying to find an opening in his defenses, but he was denied repeatedly by The Repentant. Garius realized that the brief gift offered from the war-god was fading. He needed to formulate a new strategy.

He allowed the shaman to get close, allowing him another wide swing. But, this time he offered what looked to be a blocking motion and instead, sidestepped it. He reversed his grip on the hammer and slammed its handle into his enemy’s exposed gut.

Garius realized immediately the folly of his strike. It was like hitting solid stone. A backhand from the powerfully altered orc sent him reeling and he barely managed to hold onto his weapon. His armor withstood the blow, but the sheer force of the strike sent him stumbling away.

A repetition of inhumanly strong blows rained down upon him now. Garius finally released the grip on his hammer, again changing tactics in an attempt to defeat this creature. He recoiled under the mighty assault of the mutated orc, who seemed even more animalistic, its bone-like staff continually crashing down upon him, over and over. His blood-red armor was beginning to conform to the power of this creature’s blows.

Once more, he found himself faced with an opportunity with which he needed to employ the necromantic power of The Reaper. He uttered a prayer to the god of death, asking him once again for access to the deadly degenerative plane. As the gift was granted, he channeled that energy into a discharge of force that sent the shaman hurling away, landing with a thud several paces from him. Garius felt the energy leech a bit of the orc’s soul into him. He also knew he could not reach his weapon and decided instead to use this brief respite to launch another necromantic assault.

Standing once more, he began an invocation, directing the dark energies toward the shaman, who was still getting to his feet. The power welled up inside him, holding it until he could no longer contain it. With that, a loud crackling sound, accompanied by a strange dark-purplish radiance, burst forth from him. It completely consumed the shaman, eating away at his flesh and soul as the shaman’s spirits fought hopelessly to aid him.

Please join me and the other amazingly talented authors over @ Skulldust Circle where we have formed a Writer's Circle that must be seen--a collection of brilliant, up & coming independently published speculative fiction authors with much to give both now and in the future!

All Artwork and covers by William J. Kenney

Visit my AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

See you in Wothlondia! Cheers!

Also, please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios 2012 unless otherwise noted.

FOR NOW

Paper or Plastic?

When purchasing a book, magazine or newspaper, is it that much easier to simply view it on your phone, tablet, laptop or computer? Do you miss the feel of the paper in your hands? I do...and I can see why the market is rapidly changing. The advent of the tablet/reading device is altering the reading/writing game forever.

Artwork provided by Justine Babcock

 The reason that I ask is that while I personally do enjoy the feel of a real book in my hands, I cannot deny the ease at which books can simply be downloaded to your device for your perusal. Simply put: the market has changed forever. This fact leads me to the decision and I see no alternative but to jump on the ‘eBook only’ bandwagon. Several authors that I have spoken to recently are doing this, too. And with Amazon signing authors directly, they are cutting out the publishing house and agents and bringing the content straight to the reader. While this is strange and hard to understand at first, it is something that is appealing to me as a starving self-published author. If printing cost is all-but eliminated and readers, gamers and other enthusiasts of the written word can simply download their content to their portable device, how can I choose otherwise? Kindle, Nook, iPad and smart phones have simply changed the game...a lot!

I am actively writing and working on several new books, including a prequel/anthology to Covenant of the Faceless Knights that will include the Pre-Prologue of the novel as well as short stories that include all of the main protagonists (Saeunn, Elec, Garius, Rose and Orngoth).

I am also working on the sequel to CotFK, as well as a Role-Playing Game (RPG) supplement based on the Realm of Ashenclaw. (I will let you speculate as to which gaming system.) While I would love to pursue putting these things in print, the cost to profit ratio is simply not appealing to me. I am actively researching writing and self-publishing options and want to know what experiences any other writers/readers/authors/artists may want to share!


In closing, how do you want your products delivered to you? Are you willing to pay more for an actual book or are you content with the (probably) lower price/speed of delivery involved with an eBook?

As always, I look forward to reading your comments!

See you in Wothlondia! Cheers!

Please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience, see direct links to purchase Covenant of the Faceless Knights and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

Photos from Stock.xchng...and me!

All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios, LLC 2011 unless otherwise noted. Sketches copyright Justine Babcock.

How Much Editing?

I have been working on a prequel to Covenant of the Faceless Knights that is situated in the Realm of Ashenclaw setting and is an anthology of short stories about some of the characters from the novel. It tells a series of short stories at or around the same timelines and describes what events that person is experiencing, a decade plus before the novel takes place.

Reviewing the work, I find myself doing the same things as far as edits go and feel that I am growing as a storyteller. That being said, how much editing is too much? Whether you write novels, term papers, blogs or short stories, it does not matter. We all experience this and I deal with it each and every time I re-read a section of my work. I am not talking about grammatical errors as they are caught most of the time (not always) and sometimes there can be sloppy sentence structure that needs re-working, which I take care to fix as best I can.

I am talking about editing in the sense of the overall storyline. What can you add, what can be taken out and what is over-done. When you finish reading a chapter, do you sometimes feel like the author hasn’t given you enough information or that you have had enough already and the story needs to move on.

I find myself habitually and obsessively reviewing my work and ‘tweaking’ it here and there and figure that this is something that many writers have to overcome. I am my own worst critic I think and have several educated readers reviewing my work as well. They tend to talk me off the ledge when I feel that I have hit the wall, pick me up and dust me off, etc.

I for one (as I am sure many others can relate) do not have the funds at this time to hire an experienced editor, so am doing the best that I can with the resources at my disposal.


My experience lately is, while engrossed in the writing, I have been trying to relay information as organically as possible. This leaves me wondering if there is too much or too little information given in one chapter, etc. Most of the time it seems to work, but still begs the questions:

How much is too much editing?

How many of you go through multiple re-writes or re-wording during your edits and do you have any advice for the budding author?

Do any other writers out there review their work obsessively?

See you in Wothlondia! Cheers!

Please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience, see direct links to purchase Covenant of the Faceless Knights and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

Photos from Stock.xchng

All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios, LLC 2011 unless otherwise noted.

A wonderful review of Covenant of the Faceless Knights!

A 5 'Pitchfork' review from @TeraSuccubi on her blog for Covenant of the Faceless Knights! Take a look at the post...

HERE!


See you in Wothlondia! Cheers!


Please visit MY HOME PAGE to enjoy an extended reading experience, see direct links to purchase Covenant of the Faceless Knights and to see what else Ashenclaw Studios, LLC has in store in the future!

All maps, names and content copyright Ashenclaw Studios, LLC 2011 unless otherwise noted.