New Literary Fiction Books - Oceans by A. R. Arias

 

Here's an update about the hardcover book, Oceans. It's a coming-of-age story loosely based on my childhood experiences in Puerto Rico. It's a passion project I've been working on and off for about three years. I might have posted it here under a different title but I've since changed it to Oceans.

It's a short novella, about 135 pages that tell the story of a young boy and his fishing mentor, an old man by the name of Don Andres. For me, this being my third novel, it's my favorite tale of all. So much of this story draws on my childhood and frankly, it's hard to shake those years (13-17) and I often think about those good old days and so this is a great way to have a keepsake for myself and my family to remember those amazing years.

This hardcover will be published on B&N platform hopefully by next year. I'm still re-writing some parts and proofreading and doing all the things it takes to bring a book to life. I wrote the first draft in about a month and let it sit for almost a year before returning to it and I was very happy with the words at that early point in time so I went ahead and continued writing and developing the story.

Right now it's at its best point where I've finally nailed the opening and the ending so everything in between is also coming together. I need to spend more time on it and by the end of this year I hope to finish this book and my board game (Millennium) so I've got my work cut out, as usual, and that's how I like it.

Recently I've also updated Edge of The Apocalypse novel that goes with the game. I'm talking about the full-length novel (about 320 pages). I've never written a book so fast. I banged out that first draft in a matter of weeks and then expanded it chapter by chapter and I've revised that to strengthen the main theme and so I just need to fine-tune the short books so the stories are seamless. I'm looking to finish all three projects early next year. 

I'm used to juggling several projects at once and that's the best way to work because you need to detach yourself and step back for a while so when you revisit the project you can see it through fresh eyes. So while I work on one project, I take on several others while the first one marinades and so on. It sounds daunting but it's actually a good process to get a lot done in a short time.

I love to design and talk about book covers so I'll soon post something about Oceans and how I went about developing the image for it. I think it works so far. I really have a hard time with covers because I want to include too many ideas but it's best to focus on one main theme. That was my approach for this cover. I think it tells a story that readers want answers to. Although, the tease on top has enough clues about this story and so everything has to work in unison.

Stay tuned for more about all that and for a sneak peek at the opening paragraphs.

Edge of The Apocalypse - Hardcover Novel by A. R. Arias

Proposed artwork for the full-length novel

Hey people, I thought I'd post an update about The Edge of Time Trilogy.

As you know, these are companion books for the Millennium board game. Book One, Edge of the Apocalypse has become the title for the full-length novel (about 270 pages). I'm also using the same artwork for the cover since it looks and works so well.

My original concept was to publish the novel in a three-part series, which is now available on Amazon. Each book is about 90 pages long because I wanted to keep them short for quick reading. Each book in the series has a red, white, or blue band on the spine.

Soon I'll be publishing the full novel on B&N in hardcover as a collectible book. (Currently working on samples, hardcovers with dustjacket.)

The book is still under review at B&N and its printing delayed due to COVID-19 so I look forward to getting that first copy before I edit the final version, which will include some backstory about how the book series evolved.

The printing of the board game has also been delayed due to COVID-19 issues so this is a good time to revise and update both products before final printing. Hopefully, everything will be available by September 11, as scheduled. It's going to be a close call because I still need to shoot the gameplay video but I hope to squeeze it in before my deadline.

Self-publishing is a headache but it offers so much flexibility and control, and that makes it worthwhile. Not to mention that self-published books serve as proof of concept for larger publishers. So a deal with a major publisher is still possible even if you self-publish.

Yes, a warm audience has merit 

but momentum is more important.

I plan to pitch the series somewhere along the line but right now I'll be happy if I strike out on my own. For someone like me, I love all the control and options from writing to editing to artwork, the whole shebang. I do it all and love it all. Not that I recommend editing and illustrating your own books, but it is possible to do it all competently if you have the experience and you take your time.

Loving what you do is great but making a profit with your own work is even better. So the bottom line is to figure out how to monetize your products. That usually takes a bit of money and testing but there are ways to promote your work for free or at a low cost with great results. But that's another story for another time. Stay tuned for that.

At this point, I'm still a voice in the wilderness but that will change as soon as everything is published. There's no point in promoting unfinished work. It's difficult enough to get attention once, let alone several times. Yes, a warm audience has merit but momentum is more important.

In my playbook, it's all about impulse buying. If you present your product (concept) to the right audience at the right time for the right price or best offer, enough times, you can't miss your intended target. You've got to eliminate all the red lights in your sales funnel. It's that simple. Again, this is another hot topic for another time.

Check out The Edge of Time Book Series. They're a quick read and worth your time. I promise.

Your comments and questions are always welcome.
Stay well.

Antonio Boy From El Barrio - A New Novel by A. R. Arias

Hey folks, I'm just dropping by to post a copy of my latest novel, Antonio Boy From El Barrio.

This is a short story I've been working on over the years and I've finally finished it. It's a short novella inspired by Ernest Hemingway's, The Old Man and The Sea, so it's a male-centric niche for sure.

It's not even for sale yet, although I am printing a copy for myself and one for my brother, who is not an avid reader, as far as I know. Although, I think he might get a kick out of it.

If you're interested in coming-of-age stories, check out the link below for a free PDF ebook. I might list it for sale on B&N in the near future. 

Your comments are always welcome!

Read the first chapters here:

Stephen King's Joyland Novel - Did I Love It or Hate it?

Hey folks, greetings from a COVID-19 free environment. That's how things stand now where I live but you never know how a disease like this can blindside you so beware. I hope you are safe wherever you are.

Considering that so many people are homebound, boredom will soon set in after several days. For me, I'm super busy 24/7 so I rarely get bored doing the same thing since I'm juggling dozens of projects at any given time. But lately, I've been reading more books I've had in my office. Stephen Kings, Joyland, wound up on my reading list and I'm loving that story, even more, the second time around. You gotta love how King weaves a tale and Joyland is hilarious.

Now, if you're wondering why I describe a horror novel as hilarious, then you're not a Stephen King fan. Humor is part of any Stephen King book or movie. And this one in particular, which takes place in an amusement park. It's a real humdinger. Check it out.

Next on my list is A Death for Beauty. Yes, that's my own debut novel that goes back to 2009 or so. And it so happens that occasionally I'll pick it up to update a passage (for Kindle) or whatever and I really get into the story all over again.

A Death For Beauty

If you like Stephen King, you'll enjoy ADFB, so give it a shot because I've discounted the price for this coming week. Hey, it's only a few bucks either way and well worth it. Check out a sample chapter and see what I mean.

And right, you'll notice how much bigger I made my cover than Joyland's. Well, King doesn't need free publicity as much as I do. But there you have it. Two awesome stories to help you get through your long days and nights at home.

Those of you who've lost your jobs have no fear, government checks will be in the mail soon enough so no worries, friends. Enjoy the time off and make the best of it by catching up with a few good movies or novels or whatever floats your boat.

These are precarious times indeed, my friends. Count your blessings and stay safe.

Books Update - The Edge of Time Book Series

Hey folks, it's been a while but I'm back and feeling optimistic about my new apocalyptic book series, The Edge of Time.

There's an interesting story behind these three books but the short of it is that I'm a bit behind in my work due to illness. No worries, I hope to finish Book Two, Epic Apocalypse by the end of this year. Luckily these books are 3 short stories (about 100 pages each) that run in a series and all the events tie-in with each title.

The point is that the three-book collection adds up to a novel length book, which will also be available. The hook to the novel is that it will include a backstory about the collection plus plenty of info about the boardgame (Millennium) that spinned-off the book series.

The Edge of Time Book Series - Available 2020

So, there you have it. Time moves on and I'm catching up with it. Or is it the other way around? From a personal standpoint, this book series has been my favorite project to date because it encompasses so many of my life experiences, In addition, it is a topic, which I believe will be a part of our future on Earth in the years to come.

It's a heck of a journey and I hope you can join me as we discover all the possibilities these stories, and life itself has to offer along the way.

As they said back in the day, "Be there or be square."

Search this Blog to learn more about the new Millennium Board Game:
See the game at the developer's website:

Stephen King Has Issues With Mutant Rats [Ask Gerorge R. R. Martin]

Have you ever heard of the Literary Horror genre? Or the Literary Apocalyptic genre or sub-genre?

Probably not but there's a first time for everything and Stephen King certainly has something funny to say about that.

Okay, talk about a bizarre way to introduce a new book series, The Edge of Time, but bear with me because funny stories about Stephen King are worth repeating. If you're a King fan like me, you already know how hilarious and self-deprecating he can be.

In this recent interview, Stephen King, and George R.R. Martin share a good laugh about how they wound up writing in their respective genres. As usual, Stephen King's tale (no pun intended) is quite comical. (@ 4 minutes)

Stephen King never takes himself seriously for good reason and his point is well taken. Besides, he has plenty of reasons to laugh with such an amazing career. So, while fans of literary fiction struggle to find an audience, horror and sci-fi genres have always had a massive fan base.

After years of tinkering with board games, I figured that adding short stories to my games would be a cool way to expand the game narrative. And so, The Edge of Time book series was born.

While King jokes about literary fiction, once upon a time, I began writing in the literary genre (as the title of this blog gives away) and so that's why this hits home for me. Who knew that writing about mutant rats could be so lucrative? Apparently, Stephen King has known all along.

Recently, I've answered my urge to foray into apocalyptic science fiction. As a Star-Trek fan, these days I love many of the post-apocalyptic books and television series that followed, especially the Divergent series and many films that have inspired me along the way; The Book of Eli, Elysium, Blade Runner, to name several.

The Edge of Time Trilogy

Right now, I'm two chapters into writing the drafts for books two and three and having a great time stringing these stories together.

The series consists of three short stories that converge into a full-length novel of about 350 pages.

The difference with this series compared to most other apocalyptic books is that these stories focus on a hopeful future despite all the chaos an apocalyptic event can bring to an already challenged Earth. In short, it's the apocalypse from my world view. And that is simply that life goes on despite the chaos and dangers that the end of days has to offer.

Book One, Edge of The Apocalypse captures the flashpoint moments when the first bomb falls over Austin, Texas. The subplot (an intimate relationship between best girlfriends) comes on strong and carries this story into the second book of the series.

Book Two, Epic Apocalypse, rightfully reflects on the scope of these nuclear attacks and the masterminds behind them, manifesto and all. So, a good deal of destruction, fear, and continued attacks are the epicenter of this book, which leads into the third and final book in the series.

Collectible Edge of Time Trilogy

Book Three, Beyond The Apocalypse, takes a glimpse into the future beyond 2157 when the initial story is set. This book mostly reflects the board game and its themes as it tells of many events related to the game and some pivotal spoilers. Enough said.

However, rest assured that there is a surprise ending that will tug at your heartstrings and will certainly give you something to think about.

Book One, Edge of The Apocalypse,(Paperback/Kindle) is available now on Amazon. Book two and three will be available early in 2020.

To learn more about the new book series and the board game that launches 9.11.2019. See the blog, where you can sign up for email updates: https://boardgame-news.blogspot.com/

Visit the board game website where you can learn more about Millennium: https://www.thegamecrafter.com/games/millennium

Stephen Markley's Fascinating Debut Novel, Ohio

I just love the smell of literary fiction early in the morning.

After reading random pages on Amazon, I knew right away this was my kind of story and I ordered it so I can gladly add it to my library. (I'll post a funny meme of me sliding this book into my top shelf with a broad grin on my face.)

Getting to finish this book any time soon is another matter but I look forward to starting it and I'll faithfully dedicate my Sunday's to several chapters at a time until I finish the nearly 500 pages. For me, that's around the year 2057, give or take a year or two, or before I die, whichever comes first.

Forgive my Digression

Let's keep in mind this is a debut novel and appearing epic in scope does count. Disregard Stephen King's new offering, Sleeping Beauties; a 720 page tome spliced together by a collaboration of two good authors with one good idea. Really? A pastiche of The Stand and Under The Dome, I've heard.

Only Stephen King can get away with something like this, along with 15-second book teasers. What a pitch! And it works. I'll collect the hardcover and try to get into this one but I am getting older by the minute, gentlemen. Okay, enough of that.

Back To Ohio

Let's face it, I'm not a big fan of long novels because I really live for the endings, not because I want the story to end, but because endings are the best part. (No worries, Mr. Markley, I will read every word of Ohio.)

How do we get through so much stuff on a daily basis? I am only semi-retired, and with so much of my own work, plus hundreds of channels to choose from, imagine that. Oh, I almost forgot; most of those channels are unwatchable. Right.

I don't know about you, but I learned to speedread for good reason. Last time I checked, there are still only 24 hours in a day. And here we go, I just caught a glimpse of American Horror Story: Apocalypse. How can I miss that? (Focus, focus.) I'll record it and watch it on Sunday, right after that annoying Sunday Morning program with Jane Pauley. (Is she really that wholesome?)

Look for my review of American Horror Story soon. Hey, I have a board game with the same theme to promote. What can I say? (Sign up for e-mail alerts.)

Back To Ohio (For real. Hey this is not the NY Times)

Not so in this case because literary(ish) fiction is actually fun to read; as far as I can tell with Markley's book. Thankfully, Mr. Markley seems to have a good bit of writing chops. Good for him. No slouches allowed in the Iowa Writers' Workshop, you know.

They say you can't judge a book by its cover, but this cover spells literary fiction all over it. It's all about the words first and then the plot. And none of it disappoints. It's all good.

Think of it this way. Every book; every good book, deserves a spot in literary history; a moment in time to fit in and work its magic. Ohio, the novel, could be one of them.

You never know, I could be reading the next, great American novel. It sure feels that way so far. I'll let you know for sure in 2057. Right. Don't hold your breath.

Congratulations, Stephen Markley. This is quite an achievement and I will savor every word.

Scout's honor.

Sleeping Beauties by Stephen King and Owen King

Stephen King certainly needs no promotion from me, but I thought I'd spread the love. Check out his and Owen King's new book, Sleeping Beauties, in this very short, but very interesting book teaser.

Is this book really 720 pages long? Oh, I get it, two authors, one launch. How does that work? Who got more words in? Hopefully Owen did. It was his idea, anyway. (Like father, like son.)

I'll have to take an early retirement to get through this one. But sounds like a good read. I look forward to getting it.

Anthony Bourdain's Last Boner

Photo, Melanie Dunea: Anthony Bourdain's Last Supper

Like most fanatics of Parts Unknown, on CNN,  or Travel Channel's, No Reservations, when the news of Anthony Bourdain's death by suicide trickled in, I found it hard to believe.

Why would Anthony Bourdain do such a thing? I thought. He's a man's man; a Dean Martin type, living the life that every man would love to live. He had a beautiful wife, a lovely daughter and a kick-ass job. What more can a man want out of life?

Right. What more can a man ask for?

Apparently, there was something else Bourdain could not have. The perfect life. From the outside looking in, Bourdain seemed to have it all. Both, while on travel shooting episodes, and in his personal life, Bourdain seemed to be on top of the world. Successful. Invincible. Happy.

What more can a man ask for?

So now what?

Fuck if I know. We could get into Sigmund Freud's theory of life and death instincts, Eros and Thanatos. That would be reasonable conjecture, considering Bourdain's outlook on life, which to me seemed a bit on the dark side. But heck, who am I to judge? We all tend to have a dark side and frankly, that dark side was the allure for many of us.

Bourdain, by all accounts was a no-nonsense, no bullshit, take-no-prisoners kind of writer. I can't remember him sugar-coating anything, ever. And I loved that about him. Whether that was his television persona, or part of his true personality, Anthony Bourdain was engaging in a way that most TV personalities were not.

The Church of Anthony Bourdain . . .

Like any true fan, I faithfully tuned-in, recorded, and binge-watched every episode. The show was, The Church of Anthony Bourdain, after all. Most episodes included raw footage of every location's underbelly, sexual, musical and literary references, all with a smattering of profanity along the way. What's not to like? It was Bourdain's secret recipe for irresistible content. Producer's take note. This was how to engage an audience; Anthony Bourdain style.

Like most viewers, I had a boner for this show. I think Anthony Bourdain had the biggest boner of all (don't let that photo fool you.) but regrettably not forever. Sometimes, too much of a good thing is well, not a good thing. And so it seems that Anthony Bourdain wanted to go out on top of his game. You know, king of the hill, sort of thing.

Maybe his biggest fear 
was how to top himself professionally . . .

Maybe his biggest fear was how to top himself professionally or that he might fail in some way as a father or a husband. Maybe he wanted to retire to enjoy more time with his family but didn't want to disappoint his colleagues with a pink slip. Quite a conundrum, indeed. Yet, nothing worthy of this final outcome.

Initially, I was saddened by the news of Bourdain's death by suicide. In a way, I still don't believe he took his own life and that something was amiss because his death does not add up. Maybe it's just wishful thinking because most of us want to believe that Anthony Bourdain would rather keep his most fabulous life and that someone else, out of revenge or jealousy, snuffed it out for him.

Pure speculation, of course. Although (this blog-post notwithstanding) conspiracy theorists are out there spinning their tales of doom and gloom.

Fast-forward weeks since this tragic event and my sadness has turned into outrage, anger towards Bourdain, and ultimately, indifference. Who cares? He was just an ordinary man. It was just a show. There are plenty more to choose from; I think.

God only knows the shit-show 

you were really living behind the scenes.

Am I being selfish because one of my favorite shows is over and one of my favorite television personalities is gone and now I can no longer enjoy Bourdain's witty anecdotes, exotic locations, and raw humor? Is the American Dream so horrible that we must now reject it by suicide? Can we no longer aspire to greatness?

Heck, now I have to rearrange all my favorite channels and TV shows too. What a headache that's going to be. Shit, I've even burned my collectible copy of Kitchen Confidential.

Thanks for nothing Mr. Bourdain. You've certainly managed to dim our hope for happiness in one fell swoop.

God only knows the shit-show you were really living behind the scenes. And so you did what anyone else in your shoes would do. You quit on yourself, and you quit on us. Really?

Nice going. And all because you got tired of living such a fabulous life.

How dare you, Anthony Bourdain!

How dare you.

R.I.P.

PBS Great American Read - Lonesome Dove