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Cliff's Blog
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October 14th, 2007 3:26 PM I have recently discovered that someone has been "spoofing" my account (sending out messages that look like they are coming from the @cliffordbbowyer.com domain). I would like to assure you that none of these messages are coming from me, and I definitely do not support or agree with the content that is coming in with them. This activity has been reported to my domain host, who assures me that my account has not been compromised, but that I am unable to really do anything to prevent the spoofing other than reporting everything coming in as SPAM. Therefore, since this likely will not stop anytime soon (like changing a password for a Hacker), I wanted to apologize for any inconvenience and assure you all that this has nothing to do or is condoned by Clifford B. Bowyer the author, this website, or any other relationship associated with me. Thank you for your understanding. Friday, May 30th, 2008 7:12 PM An interesting message from Silver Leaf Books: State of the Industry Moving forward after the bankruptcy of our Distributor. SLB News, May 30, 2008It has been a little over six months since our Distributor locked their doors and all sales generated for an entire year, including most inventory, was lost. In these months since, the bankruptcy of the distributor has had a lingering effect, felt even more painfully when one walks into a bookstore where we had previously established an account prior to signing with the Distributor, and are told that the books are no longer available. Unfortunately, that has been a side effect of this loss that has lingered into 2008. In January Silver Leaf Books signed an agreement with Ingram Books, giving us representation with both of the two largest Wholesalers. While this was a huge win celebrated by all, the Bookworld bankruptcy was continued to be felt as part of the Distribution agreement had us turn over all accounts to them. With them closed, it is in many ways like starting all over again, as brick and mortar stores need to reestablish our account, which in many cases involves a lengthy application process. The comforting line: "Many Bookworld customers are going through similar concerns." As always, we continue to move forward, planning our upcoming releases and working on the books that will be coming out in 2009 as well as the new authors currently under review for consideration for publication. We also are spending much of this year working to reestablish ourselves in the market with our current titles. In light of this experience, and the current state of the economy, we have begun wondering how the publishing industry overall is faring at the moment. Annually we participate in the Book Industry Study Group analysis of the industry by providing detailed reports of all volumes and activities for inclusion in their study. March of this year, Book Statistics pulled information from this study and from other sources, and presented a factual outlook of the industry (elements included here with permission):
With some of these statistics in mind, as well as our recent experiences, Silver Leaf Books will be looking to be more selective with our title choices, bringing our readers quality books with engaging and entertaining stories. We also will be closely monitoring the industry trends and make print run and book format decisions accordingly. As we look at some of the exciting projects and titles in our pipeline, we look forward to reestablishing ourselves in 2009 with new books, new authors, and new series. We also will continue to look to regain the market presence we previously had, and ultimately exceed it, and make certain that our titles are available to each and every one of our readers. As always, thank you for your continued support of Silver Leaf Books. Thursday, July 12th, 2007 7:38 PM This time of year is a great time to really get in touch with the fans, readers, and even find some new people who have never experienced the Imperium Saga novels. Starting tomorrow at 12:00 (High Noon!), my convention season begins. As a quick glance at what is coming up, here are the events I'm planning on being at: ConnectiCon (Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford, CT), July 13th - 15th: This will be my 2nd year at ConnectiCon. It's really more of an Anime show than the normal Sci-Fi / Fantasy conventions I used to attend, but we had a fantastic year last time around (so much so I instantly signed up for this year and also tried to get into Anime Boston). The event itself is quite large. We're in the Dealer's Room, but there is actually an entire hallway with artists lined up along both sides of the wall. You can check out artwork, commission work on the spot, or maybe even find an artist for an upcoming project. Next to the Dealer's Room was a game room (video games) that was always quite popular. Beside that was another long hallway with rooms full of RPG games, miniature games, Magic games, etc (next year, maybe we'll have the Imperium Saga d20 RPG game there!). Pi-Con (Best Western Sovereign Hotel, West Springfield, MA), August 10th - 12th: This will be my first Pi-Con, but at Boskone this year, we were offered....
Well, the demo doesn't look like it will be happening, but the rest will be! One of the forum's I'm chairing is Developing RPG games, with a focus on the new magic system created for the Imperium Saga. Should be good (and next year the stars should be aligned and that 3-day demo may just happen!). United FanCon (Springfield Marriott, Springfield, MA), November 2nd - 5th: This will also be my 2nd United FanCon. This convention is great for celebrity brushes. William Shatner, Jewel Staite, and Grace Park were a trio that caught my eye (and Grace Park even signed something for me after her booth was closed and she was running to be a guest speaker! Alas, I was having too many people asking for the good old John Hancock on my books to make it to her booth on time....what a FABULOUS dilemma! Special thanks to Grace for still doing the signing!). Celebrate Holliston Day (Stoddard Park, Holliston, MA), Dates TBD: Always my biggest and best event of the summer. Can't beat the home town crowd. A great day full of Holliston residents, family, and friends. Face painting, dancing, chili eating competitions, balloon rides, and even some jousting competitions for the kids! A great time to be had by all. Milford Fall Festival (TJ's Collectibles, Milford, MA), Dates TBD: A big thank you to Tom Shea, owner of TJ's Collectibles for letting me put up a table in front of his store for the past four years for the Festival. Dunking booths, plenty of food, dancing, and more! A special thanks also to Jillian and Robb for helping out a couple of years ago when the Fall Festival and Celebrate Holliston Day fell on the same day! More information is posted in the Upcoming Events section of my site. Feel free to check it out if you'll be in the area and want to stop by. Tuesday, June 19th, 2007, 5:51 PM Art, Art, and more Art! One of the things that I always love about the book process is when everything is done and you begin working with an artist. Your characters begin to magically transform from the page into visual images. Some are perfect, others may not quite hit what you were thinking, but all in all, especially for an author, seeing your characters take shape is a fantastic experience. Right now, so much is beginning to take shape that it is unbelievable. Not even seeing preliminary sketches and some work, but just the sheer amount of art that is flowing through my computer and samples on my desk at the moment. I love it. I love looking at the images and visualizing how this artist will do with my characters. Until artists are actually signed to agreement, I don't want to mention any names, but speaking purely at a high level, here's the amount of artwork I'm currently examining.... IMPERIUM SAGA d20 RPG: There is no doubt that the game based upon my books will have artwork. The Development Team and I selected a group of artists we were interested in having work on the project. Through a few contacts, that number has only increased! Looking at the samples, I can't wait to see how some of these artists handle my "babies" (characters, creatures, etc). Of course, there will be some familiar faces and names from the artists, but quite a few new ones to go along with. Once we have specifics, I'll post updates! THE ADVENTURES OF KYRIA: With the seventh book of The Adventures of Kyria (The Spread of Darkness) slated to come out in September, I always like to have a preview of the next cover. So, June Brigman and Roy Richardson are currently working on the cover for book 8! I'll post some preliminary sketches as soon as I get them! ILFANTI AND THE ORB OF PROPHECY: This book has been on hold for quite awhile. Todd Lockwood is the artist, and our schedules have never seemed to come together. I'm hoping to have it out in 2008, so we're looking to see if we can get the cover scheduled. GEN-OPS: You heard it here first: my very first non-Imperium Saga novel is Gen-Ops. More details will come out about that (I think that deserves a Blog entry all of its own). However, there was one artist I've seen at several Boston-based conventions over the past few years who I thought was absolutely phenomenal. We've touched base and he is interested in working on the book! CONTINUING THE PASSION: Not necessarily art, but the book I wrote as a tribute to my father is getting ready to go into the publication process. A photographer (who specializes in sports photographs and used to play softball for me) is going to be taking the picture for the cover. It sounds like it will be good! That's a lot of art! A lot of excitement. Hopefully soon I'll begin seeing some quality images based on my books! Friday, June 8th, 2007, 6:06 PM THE JOY OF RECOGNITION Recognition sometimes goes a bit far. Drooling over a celebrity, or never giving them a moments peace can be nerve wracking. For an author with a passionate following but not necessarily a best selling audience, recognition is not frustration, but quite a pleasant surprise. Sure, going to my home town where people see me and know right away: "That's the author." That's one thing. I do events (library or school speaking events, town festivals, etc), and it's not the recognition that I enjoy, but the sheer joy and excitement on the faces of my readers (in this case, mostly kids or teens). I've said it before, and I'll say it again, that reaction makes it all worthwhile for me. But today, today was something different.... I'm walking into a building the same way I always do. Behind me is a woman on her cell phone, and I hear: "Hey, I know that guy." Instantly interested, I turn slightly to see if she's talking about me (and more importantly, to see if I know her! I'd hate to be ignoring a friend, relative, old classmate, or fan!). She then lowers the phone: "I know you. You're that Fantasy guy." We talked for a couple of minutes. She knew about my books because she had seen me at a B&N speaking event / signing. At the time, I only had 2 books out (fast forward to today: 9!). In the grand scheme of things, it was a short 2 minute chat, but that fact that she recognized me and associated me as an author, for that moment, it was great. I heard stories about how someone (my mother) was reading my book and someone else came up and said that I was a wonderful author. But this was the first time at a completely random place someone recognized me as the author, and was genuinely excited by bumping into me. We're not talking paparazzi, but it definitely brightened this author's day! Saturday, April 21st, 2007, 7:23 AM THE ART DEBATE Let the debate begin.... With the Imperium Saga d20 RPG game in testing, thoughts of art for the final release begin dancing around in my mind. Nothing too specific (after all, what if testing recommends major changes), but certain things should be consistent regardless of the results of testing (a mystral, for instance, may have her numbers and stats adjusted, but in the end she'll still resemble Solara and be a mystral!). So my debate of the morning: Playable Races. How should they look in the final release? Most of the D&D books simply have pencil sketches with very basic garb (no items either). As you look at the image, it comes across as "if I were a dwarf, this is what I would look like." In terms of armor, weapons, and more, you would customize all of that based on the choices you made in the game. So, the images show a very basic dwarf just so you can see what a dwarf would look like. Here are a pair of examples from the Player's Handbook to give you a visual of what I am discussing:
On the other hand, a pair of D&D campaign settings, Eberron and Forgotten Realms actually show the races fully clothed and in color. Eberron, for instance, shows not just a "human," but several humans all dressed differently as you may find them in the world. And an example from the Eberron Campaign setting:
What is better for the Imperium Saga? Option A: A human is a human, so a basic human can be presented (like most D&D books), and then the gamers can choose where they want the human to be from (Dartie, Falestia, etc) and customize the character on their own; or Option B: A human may be a human, but a Dartian is VERY DIFFERENT from a Falestian in appearance. The art should reflect this (for instance, a Dartian focuses on the hunt and would be adorned in animal pelts, maybe a little leaves and vines for camouflage if on the hunt. Their distant cousins in Dartais scowl at such garb and behavior, dressing more aristocratically. Falestians, on the other hand, wear kilts. Barbarians have fur wraps. Adlesians are more tribal and have simplistic garb. And the list goes on). So, should the game reflect simple "this is a human" and let the gamer take the human and visualize what they look like on their own; or should a legitimate example of a human from Falestia be provided (maybe takes away a little imagination by showing what a Falestian looks like, but also provides an example for those who may not be as familiar with my books and world)? Sunday, March 25th, 2007, 11:31 PM Alien Almanac Interview An interview that I completed earlier in the year was just posted on Alien Almanac. The full transcript of the interview is posted here. Enjoy! Interview with Clifford Bowyer, author of The Imperium Saga
[AA] What are the Imperium Saga novels about? [CB] The Imperium Saga is a Fantasy Adventure about Seven Kingdoms, known as the Imperium, and the gradual conquest of them by an evil tyrant known as Zoldex. The series begins with readers seeing the Imperium the way it supposed to be, and by the end of the trilogy, which is aptly entitled the Fall of the Imperium Trilogy, Zoldex pretty much conquers the realm.
Throughout it, readers will meet a variety of characters from numerous locations. Such as Warlord Braksis, the warrior who leads the Imperium forces; Solara, a mystral warrior who has sworn an oath of allegiance to Braksis; Thamar, a dwarven fighter who is seeking allies to help protect his homeland; Arifos, an elf from another land who is aware of Zoldex and is seeking a child destined to save them all; and Kyria, that child. These few, and others, will struggle throughout the series to determine who Zoldex is, what his intentions are, and work to try and unite the races of the Imperium to combat Zoldex and his forces.
The main series, the aforementioned Fall of the Imperium trilogy, focuses on the overall theme and threat of Zoldex. I also have a young-adult spin-off series which is only about Kyria, called The Adventures of Kyria, that follow her development and training as she becomes the person that was prophesied to save the world.
[AA] How do you develop the characters in your books? [CB] I’ve always been a big believer in organization and structure. I create profiles, extensive profiles, about the characters in my books. There is always the simple things, like name, appearance, age, and things like that, but I also go deeper than that. Anyone can be a name and a face in a book, but for someone to really come to life, to have depth to their character, to have personality, you need more than that.
For every one of my characters, I have a fully developed background and history. The things that happened in their past that motivates their actions in the present. I have relatives and family dynamics so that other elements of the characters can come into play. I have personalities and outlooks on certain things so that each character has their own identity and can be easily identifiable when you are reading about them. I also include things like speech patterns, weapons or equipment they may use, certain key things they potentially have, and much more. I also modify these as I am writing, so that, for instance, if a character is slashed across the cheek by a tiger, a book from now his face wouldn’t suddenly be healed. That way, I don’t forget details of what happens to my characters, and there are consequences to actions and events that could have lasting themes throughout the series.
Depending on how pivotal a character is to the plot and development of the series, these profiles could be as short as two pages, or as long as fifty. I really go all out with the development so that when I am sitting and writing about certain characters, they actually are like living and breathing individuals who I am sort of adventuring with instead of telling the story about.
As for how I determine what the characters will be like, that also depends on quite a few factors. For instance, Solara is one of my main characters. In book 2, The Changing Tides, she went home and I wanted to introduce her younger sister, Sora. Well, there’s a name, and I had a basic image in my mind, but what would make Sora, Sora? That comes out in her background. Solara, when she was younger, had an incident where her mother was murdered and Braksis saved her life. Solara vowed to travel with Braksis and serve him as a protector. But, what happens to the younger sister left behind? I saw her as bitter and angry. A little at her sister, but even more-so with Braksis, the man who took her sister away from her. She also had to be tough, because she grew up on her own and had to learn to fend for herself. So, when you meet Sora, she’s fiercely independent, has a major chip on her shoulder, but deep down only wants to have her sister back. Add in the race she comes from (the mystral), a little bit of the traditions and values of her people, and Sora is practically leaping off of the page.
[AA] You have seven books published with two more on the way. What are the new titles? What are they about? When will they be available? [CB] The two new books are coming out in February. The first is “The Siege of Zoldex,” the third and final book of the Fall of the Imperium Trilogy. The second is “Quest for the Shard,” the sixth book in the Adventures of Kyria.
The Siege of Zoldex is pretty much just how it sounds: Zoldex begins his siege to conquer the realm. At the end of the second book, readers discovered that Zoldex summoned forth legions of warriors from other continents. In this book, taking place a year after the events of the last book, his conquest begins and the impact is felt throughout the realm and seen through the eyes of the heroes.
The Mage’s Council, which is where all of my magic users are, including Kyria, is one of the first targets of his onslaught. He then has his forces march across the south, conquering everything in their path. Some heroes are trying to help people flee, some are trying to erect defenses to make a stand, some are actually fighting however best they can, and some are continuing to search for allies in the struggle against Zoldex.
I’d tell you more, but I don’t want to give away too many spoilers!
As for Quest for the Shard, it completes a storyline that begin with book 4 of the Adventures of Kyria, namely The Shard of Time. In that book, during a History class, Kyria’s Master (the History teacher) introduced them to a mystical artifact that allowed them to go back in time and view history as it was actually happening. His theory was that people can read about history, but that actual events had so much more passion and meaning while they were actually happening. Taking a class back in time, the class was able to experience an orc invasion of a dwarven city, something that was a profound experience.
Well, after getting back, Kyria had an idea: she could use the Shard of Time to go back in time and see Zoldex when he had first gained his powers. She had never met the man, but she had known about the prophecy and how she was destined to beat him. She figured that if she could learn more about him, it could be crucial to fulfilling her destiny. Along with her best friends, Mica and Sartir, they stole the Shard of Time and went back into the past to see Zoldex, only something went wrong, and they were stranded there.
In Quest for the Shard, they are traveling to the Mourning Mountains, a vast arctic mountain range that is perilous and unforgiving, to find the Shard where it had originally been discovered. They face many threats and dangers, make some new friends along the way, and finally succeed in returning home, where their next task is to confront the History teacher and explain everything that had happened.
[AA] What keeps this series interesting for you? [CB] The characters are the most important thing. If I get away from working on the series too long, I begin to have this burning desire to go and write, bringing out more of the story and adventures of the characters. I have so much plotted and developed, with concept ideas of where I want to go, that it’s really a matter of having the time to do it all.
Regardless of what I am working on though, whether it was the Kyria series or the main trilogy, whenever I begin, those characters are sitting there and waiting for me, ready to continue their journey.
A lot of people who I have met at Conventions, Book Signings, Speaking Events, and festivals have also told me how much they love the characters, how they can’t wait to see what is going to happen next, and how different the characters really are. The characters may keep me interested, but that kind of a reaction, the passion and excitement that I see in the faces of the fans, that’s what makes it all worthwhile.
[AA] What makes the Imperium Saga different from other fantasy genres? [CB] The easiest difference is the fact that when I first began working on this, I never read Fantasy. I was a big Star Wars fan, reading all of the Star Wars books, and other things like Historical Fiction, Detective Thrillers, Legal Thrillers, and things like that. My original idea for a book was along the lines of something akin to a romantic comedy in the movies, but I had not written in years and wanted to refine my writing style a bit. So, what better to write than a Fantasy, where I figured I could make up the rules as I went, and all that mattered was my imagination?
Well, that kind of mushroomed. The romantic comedy has long since been forgotten. I have the main trilogy written, all twelve books of the young adult series, as well as another spin-off book, Ilfanti and the Orb of Prophecy. I also am working with a development team on an RPG game, and have some other things in mind for future releases as well.
But, at the heart of it all, was originality merely from a lack of influence from other writers and Fantasy worlds. I was probably far more influenced by my father, a history teacher and military man, than I was by any other writers or authors. Since then, I have done my best to read Fantasy books so that I can answer questions knowledgeably from fans and people I meet, but the overall theme and materials I developed in the beginning are still what is felt throughout the series.
[AA] Your biography mentions that the Imperium Saga is under development as a role-playing game. What is the basis of the game? Are you taking on this project yourself? When will the game be ready? [CB] A few years ago, I was in my local comic shop (TJ Collectibles in Milford) and the owner asked me if I ever considered having a game made based on my books. To me, a game was a video game, and I would love that, but figured that if it ever happened, people would come to me to try and buy the rights to make a game. But that was not what he meant. He then sat me down and began talking about the d20 role playing games, and basically began educating me on how Wizards of the Coast was letting people make games and use their basic mechanics to help promote gameplay and keep people involved.
As someone who had never gamed before, I wasn’t sure whether it was a good idea or not. Did people really still play things like Dungeons & Dragons when we do have online RPG’s now a days? He assured me that the entire industry has had a resurgence and things have been better than ever.
Well, I decided to put together a team of individuals who were knowledgeable about games and have them explore the possibility of turning my world into one. The original goal was to see if it was a good idea, followed by whether or not it was a feasible idea. The team decided that it was a fabulous idea, and because of the extent of materials I had already developed and the thoroughness of profiles on things for my world, it would make a great game.
A new team was then put together to develop it, including some members of the original team, myself, some RPG experts, fantasy fans, and a graphic designer. Now, we’re pretty much to the end of the road. The core mechanic has been designed, the book is written, and it is in testing. Once it passes testing, we’ll begin looking at artists to work on the materials, and then it could be out as early as six months after that. Of course, testing could take quite some time before it reaches that point, but everyone involved is really excited.
[AA] When and where do you write? [CB] I write from home, at any time that I have available. Usually, I write in the mornings and stop around 3:00 in the afternoon. However, when I am writing a book, I follow my outlines and try to set daily goals. For instance, I may have 5 bullet points listing the next 3 to 5 chapters. I’ll read those, think about them for a while, and then begin working on them. A short break for lunch, and then I’m back to writing. If I’m done at noon, great. If I’m done at midnight, ouch! Usually though, I do seem to finish around three.
At the desk where I write, I am surrounded by little items of inspiration. I have replica and collectible swords, some artwork, all of my books, the map of my world, and all of y development materials (which is thousands of pages) at my fingertips.
AA] What is the greatest challenge you have when writing? [CB] For me, it’s time. There always seems to be far too little of it. Perhaps it is because my mind is always swirling, and there are things I want to work on and write, but to get to those points, I need to finish what I am working on. Fortunately, I have always been good at staying focused (so I don’t work on three books at once and never finish any of them), but I am always thinking about the books, the characters, and places I want to bring them. I just need the time to complete everything I want to.
[AA] What advise would you give to other aspiring writers or writers just beginning? [CB] Every author is different, and everyone has their own style. I know some writers who sit down and just type, allowing the characters to sort of determine where the book is going and what is going to happen. If that works for you, great. For me though, I did try this for one book as an experiment, and it did not work at all. Instead of waking up each morning, looking at my outline and knowing what I am going to write, I found myself trying to think about what is going to happen next. I did not feel as productive, and I was not as happy with the book when it was done.
So, I recommend preparation. Take the time to really develop your idea and though. Do the research you need (for Fantasy, for instance, it’s research on weapons, swordplay, fighting techniques, mythology, folklore, and things like that) to do, and take time focusing on the little details that may never come out in the book, but are the things that really create the depth of your work.
In addition to the background research and materials, I spend a good three months just creating the outline and source document for the book I am about to write. It has a complete bulleted outline (sometimes chapter by chapter, sometimes even so detailed that it is scenes within the chapter), all characters within the book, locations visited, creatures involved, and more. That way, I have one document that covers everything I could possibly need.
Again, every author is different, but I am fortunate never to have experienced “writer’s block,” and I attribute that to the structured approach and outlines. I don’t wake up trying to figure out what to do, I get up, know what to do, and do it.
[AA] You own a company called Creative Strategies. What does your company do? [CB] I do. Creative Strategists is a book publishing consulting firm. It specializes in custom services for authors, self-publishers, and small presses. Basically, if someone has a book and needs help with it, we have the resources to do that for them. Whatever it may be, from something as simple as editing all the way to complete project management (where they get a professional-grade novel at the end that looks just like something a big name publisher would put together).
For Fantasy and Science Fiction fans, we have a tremendous network of artists. Most of my artist contacts have come from people I met at conventions and other events, so it definitely is very themed at the moment. But there are award winning artists, many very talented artists, and a few novice artists as well.
People can get more information (or request a price quote if they have book or art needs) at www.Creative-Strategists.com.
[AA] What do you do when you’re not writing or running your company? [CB] You mean there are times when I’m not doing one or the other? I’ll say just kidding, but my family and girlfriend would probably agree that it is all that I do. But, I have always enjoyed both reading and movies. I have an extensive collection of each. I pretty much see every movie that comes out, and then buy it again on DVD. You also will never find me without a book nearby (trips to the post office are always good for a page or two), or a comic book.
I also enjoy video games if I have the chance to play them, but no matter how many times I think that I’m going to play a game at night, there are very few nights I actually do get to sit down and play.
Beyond that, there’s sports (Baseball primarily, and football to a lesser degree), family, friends, and events with fans.
[AA] Which movie are you looking forward to this year (2007)? [CB] That’s a tough one. If I had to pick just one, I’ll go with the coming attraction I just saw: Fantastic Four. The special effects with the Silver Surfer looked great, and I had a smile on my face during the entire preview. I should probably have said Spiderman, because I am a bigger Spidey fan than a Fantastic Four fan, but as someone whose read all the comics, the alien symbiote should come from outer space and the Secret Wars….I doubt Spiderman is going to some made up planet by the Beyonder in the movie, so I’ll stick with Fantastic Four.
I’m also looking forward to the new Die Hard movie, Harry Potter, and I’m sure there are others that I’m overlooking.
[AA] Which saga is better, Star Trek, Star Wars, or Battlestar Galactica? [CB] I actually count Battlestar Galactica as my favorite television show at the moment. I love it. I had originally been skeptical as an old-show fan (Cylons looking human, Starbuck being a woman, etc), but I was sold on the very first episode I saw. I also got to meet Grace Park at my last convention, which was nice.
I have also enjoyed Star Trek, though more since College when a buddy of mine let me borrow the Classic Trek movies before Voyager premiered. Now, I own every Star Trek DVD and have seen every episode numerous times. I even had a Star Trek charge card for a while, which used to get quite a bit of attention when I used it.
However, all of this pales in comparison to Star Wars. Star Wars is definitely my favorite series. I enjoy the movies, the books, I have posters of the movies on my walls, have a Darth Vader head sitting on my desk and watching me work, and have invested in quite a few Star Wars replicas and collectibles, which are all in a display case behind my desk. I also broke down after Episode II and bought a bunch of toys, but quickly stored them away until I have children and won’t feel quite as awkward about wanting to actually play with them!
[AA] What was the last book you read? [CB] The last one was “The Cestus Deception,” a Star Wars novel by Steven Barnes featuring Obi-Wan Kenobi, Kit Fisto, and some clone commandoes. It was all about a planet where droids were being built that could kill Jedi. Obi-Wan and Kit were sent on an elaborate deception mission to try and stop the manufacture of the droids and also to keep them away from Count Dooku.
I’m currently about half way through Triple Zero, another Star Wars novel, this one by Karen Traviss, where clone commandoes are under cover on Coruscant to find traitors and spies in the midst of the capital.
[AA] How do fans and readers get in touch with you? [CB] I update a Blog on a regular basis on my own website, www.CliffordBBowyer.com, and also put the latest news, updates, reviews, etc about both the books and myself on there.
A couple of years ago, a fan who visited me at several different events asked permission to create a “Fan Fiction” site. I let him, and also monitor the site and respond to questions, comments, and posting there as well. You can find it at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/theimpendingstorm.
Silver Leaf Books also has a “Fan Art” feature that you can find by going to http://www.silverleafbooks.com/Gallery-FanArt.htm, and posting or viewing art specifically about my books and world.
Finally, a few people recommended that I join MySpace to be more available to fans as well, and I have done that. People can find me at http://www.myspace.com/imperiumsaga.
[AA] Where can fans buy your books? [CB] My books are available wherever books are sold. You can walk in to any bookstore, and if they do not have them, they can order them for you. You can also get them on Amazon.com, B&N.com, directly through the Silver Leaf Books online store (http://www.silverleafbooks.com/Products-Catalog-Books-CliffordBBowyer.htm), or through my own website, which has links to the Silver Leaf Books store.
You can also visit me at any of my numerous conventions, book signings, or festivals. Information on these are posted and updated regularly on both websites.
[AA] Do you have book signings or appearances coming up in 2007? [CB] I currently have several conventions that I am intending to host a booth at for book sales, signings, and discussions. The first is February 16th – 18th at Boskone. Then Anime Boston on April 20th – 22nd. ConnectiCon is July 13th – 15th. I’ll also likely be back at United FanCon, but I don’t have the dates yet.
Also, I’m sure I’ll have some book signings at various Barnes and Noble stores following the release of the new books. Updated information on those appearances and others can be found at either website by going to the Events section. Friday, March 16th, 2007, 2:32 PM 1 Book, or 2???? Decisions, decisions, decisions..... As you probably know by now, there is an RPG game based on the world of the Imperium Saga (and if you don't know, where have you been?). The "Core Book," or the "Imperium Saga Campaign Setting" establishes all of the rules, introduces some races that are playable, some classes, gear, etc. My intentions all along has been that the one book provides you with everything that you need to pick up the game and play. Well, the last couple of weeks I have been working on updating and tweaking the "Monsters" section (and Monsters in RPG lingo means all races ~ so a human is considered a monster! As is a mystral, dwarf, lupan, and more). With the Monsters chapter, it introduces all of the creatures you might encounter during your "adventure" in the land of the Imperium Saga. It includes only natives (so the Madrew elves and the legions of Zoldex are not yet introduced), but is fairly all inclusive (if you want to fight a tragon, this will give you the stats. If you want to go hunting a boar, the stats for that are in there too). Well, when I handed the "draft" of the book to the Development Team for final review, the page count was perfect. Of course, the Monsters chapter was largely left undone. Last night at 4:20 AM, I finished the Monsters, and now I have to pause.... It's long. Longer than I wanted. Perhaps too long to put in the book. It's currently 108 manuscript pages for that chapter alone (conversely, the 9 other chapters combined are about 150 pages). This is all pre-Typesetting, pre-artwork, etc. Dungeons & Dragons has three books that people are required to buy to play: the Player's Handbook, the Monster Manual, and The Dungeon Master's Guide. Under what we were doing, we would only have 1 book (and under the Open License Agreement, we would refer people to those books for any additional rules or clarifications). Now, I'm wondering if there should be 2..... Instead of one giant book that has everything, we could have the Core Book and the Monster Book. Both would be in the ballpark (with art and Typesetting) of where the books are expected to be size wise. This would also help keep costs down (if the book winds up being 500+ pages, I seriously doubt, no matter how good it is, that people are going to give the game a try when there are 300 page books for $39.99 and ours might be more than that). So, just tossing it out there to fans, do you think it would be better served as 1 book or 2? Friday, March 16th, 2007, 2:25 PM Star Wars Continues... A while ago, one of my buddies told me that there was going to be a new LIVE ACTION Star Wars television show that would sort of bridge the gap between the two sets of movies. For a Vader fan, and not seeing much of Vader in the suit in the prequel, the mere thought of some new Vader material was enough to get my mouth watering. Of course, odds are, the show will be about some obscure, background, or even new character, and although Vader will be around, he probably won't be in the show (at least not very much). I would expect something like a new Grand Moff or Imperial Admiral to be introduced who presents a thorn in the sides of whoever the hero is (sort of like Admiral Dala, or Commander Isard. Who you ask? My point exactly!). Anyways, Lucas recently had an interview, and you can listen to it by visiting.... http://www.starwars.com/clonewars/about/news/news20070309.html He talks about a new animated series that is coming out (he actually mentioned two), and answered a question about the Live Action show. BTW....Big Vader fan....does that mean that it should be predictable that the villains in my books are larger than life, and actually have the audacity to win? Keep reading, keep enjoying! Friday, February 16th, 2007, 9:11 AM What Creature Would You Be? As most of you probably know, for the past few years there has been a game being developed based upon the world I created, the Imperium Saga. It is pretty much done, going into testing. However, one thing that always is a topic is what races (what types of creatures) should people have the option of playing with. This is important to find out what people want, not only for the main book release, but also for the possibility of supplements (say, for instance, people want to play with the Mystral, the race that Solara belongs to, but it is not one you can choose. Then, a future release could be entirely on playing as a Mystral). But that's getting ahead of myself. So, which Imperium race would you like to play the most (I'm listing Imperium races, purposefully leaving out elves, dwarves, humans, gnomes, centaurs and other "common" creatures from mythology). Feel free to choose as many as you would like, but let me know what your order of preference would be.... Adlesians Aquaticans Avarians Celestials Frost Elves Gorn Mystral Photons Rasplers Sabrenoh Sarnals Tigrel Worral Wraith Send some comments, have a bit of a discussion, be honest, and above all: have fun with it! I look forward to reading what people have to say. Enjoy! PS. ~ For those of you coming to Boskone this weekend, stop by and say hi. Wednesday, February 7th, 2007, 11:48 AM THE NEW BOOKS ARE IN! For an author, one of the biggest joys and most exciting times is when a new book arrives. That first box that is sitting there, so full of hope and promise, the culmination of all of your hard work, research, and efforts. Then, you open the box, and there it is. Looking back at you for the first time in a whole new way. It's nearly indescribable. The only thing better than seeing the book for the first time, the exhilaration, the pure overwhelming sense of completion, is seeing the faces of those who read it and fall in love with the story I wrote, the characters I designed, and the world I developed. An added bonus for me this time, I had two books arrive, not just one. The first is the final book of the Fall of the Imperium Trilogy, The Siege of Zoldex, and the second is the sixth book in the Adventures of Kyria, Quest for the Shard. The pre-orders all went out yesterday, and today marks the first official day of the book being available for direct sale. Orders can be placed through this site (linking to Silver Leaf Books), or directly through Silver Leaf Books. Naturally, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, and Barnes & Noble stores can all order the books for you as well if you are interested. The first store that I personally delivered books to, as always, is Fiske's General Store in Holliston. For my local fans, this would be a great way for you to get the books right away. Also, my two titles were not the only new releases from Silver Leaf Books this week. I would like to give a quick intro to Stuart Clark, the newest Silver Leaf Books author, on his debut novel, Project U.L.F. Enjoy the new releases, and I look forward to hearing your feedback and fan reviews! Monday, February 5th, 2007, 8:24 PM I always find it peculiar how things seem to creep up on you at the oddest times. This morning, I went with Melissa to meet a truck that was delivering a shipment to Silver Leaf Books. The truck was carrying 10,000 pounds of books (7 pallets), and had two of my new releases (The Siege of Zoldex, and Quest for the Shard), as well as the debut novel by SLB author Stuart Clark. This definitely wasn't my first time receiving books, and I'm sure it won't be my last. Somewhere around the 6th pallet (we had to have the driver hand us the boxes, stack them on the receiving dock, and then cart them from there down to the storage room), almost done for the day, I did something I had not done all day.... I bent with my back instead of my knees. I didn't get hurt in that moment. I didn't stop to pause. But, as clear as can be, I heard my father say, "Don't forget to bend with your knees, son." As soon as I heard those words, my mind was swirling in memories. When my first book came out (The Impending Storm), he was right there with me, helping me move boxes, transport them, etc. That was only the end of 2003. When the sequel came out in 2005, even though he had trouble walking, and had grown much weaker, he still was adamant about helping. I was happy just for the company, but he wanted to help. Rather than hurting his feelings, telling him that I did not need his help (as I see so many people do with those who grow older), I gave him things to do. Sure, it wasn't carrying a pair of boxes with 40 hardcovers in them, maybe it was a small box of bookmarks, or book covers....something a little lighter for him. But the pride in his eyes, the sheer joy at being able to help out, even in a little way, it meant the world to both of us. And today, it all came back to me in that moment. Today market the first book release that he will not be here for. Though he was still in the midst of my first book (often falling asleep while reading), he has been there for every book. Supporting me. Telling me how proud he was and how he knew I was going to be a tremendous success. The things a father tells a son that he loves. In that briefest moment though, the words coming to me from his as clear as can be, and the images that followed, for someone who is not religious in the least, I believe that he was there with me (and you know what, I didn't bend with my back even once after that!). Thanks for reading and listening. Clifford B. Bowyer Thursday, February 1st, 2007, 11:50 PM The Tales of the Council of Elders project has come one step closer to being completed this week. Of the nine tales open, six are now currently assigned to authors. The authors and tales shall be RPG Development Team members Ben Mitchell and James Andrews co-authoring Pierce's Tale, RPG Development Team member Robb Webb writing Herg's Tale, and Silver Leaf Books author Stuart Clark writing Promethisus's Tale. In addition to these, I myself will be writing Ilfanti's Tale, and two other tales have authors selected, but the tales have not yet been determined. These are Silver Leaf Books author Justin R. Smith, and the Tales of the Council of Elders writing contest finalist, Paul Conley III. More information about the Tales of the Council of Elders will be posted as information becomes available. However, for your enjoyment, you may download a PDF of Paul's winning writing contest submission: Zoldexius: City of Evil! Enjoy! Monday, January 15th, 2007, 10:25 PM I have some very exciting news, and couldn't wait to post it and share it with everyone. The Imperium Saga d20 RPG Game has been completely written! I finished it over the weekend after spending nearly 200 hours the past couple of weeks pouring through profiles, stats, items and equipment, skills and feats, Player Races, Player Classes, and more! If things stand as they are now (and things could be changed in Testing), in addition to the normal d20 RPG races that can be used (Humans, Dwarves, Elves, Gnomes, Half-Elves, and Half-Orcs), players will be able to select a pair of common types of creatures in my world (Centaurs and Hobgoblins), as well as five completely unique Imperium creatures (Aquaticans, Frost Elves, Rasplers, Sabrenoh, and Wraith). For the classes, there are four classes that have been modified from standard rules and are included (Barbarians, Fighters, Rangers, and Rogues), and ten all-new Imperium classes that players can choose from (Athlete, Combat Mage, Defiler, Free Agent, Field Surgeon, Hunter, Infiltrator, Mage Healer, Mercenary, and Soldier). All of these (and more: gear, skills, feats, etc) will all go through several rounds of testing to make sure the core mechanic works well, and playability is enjoyable. But we're a lot closer to having a final product and a game for people to play and enjoy than we were just a couple of weeks ago. It's all very exciting, and I can't wait to begin seeing fans enjoying the Imperium Saga in a whole new way! In other news, I just conducted an interview with Alien Almanac. Once the interview is posted, I'll provide a link for fans to be able to read it. Also, the new quarterly newsletter is finished and can be downloaded. Let me know if you would be interested in receiving a copy direct by email each quarter when it is released. Wednesday, January 3rd, 2007, 1:38 PM Good afternoon to all! As the first entry of the New Year, I hope that everyone had a festive and enjoyable holiday season and New Years! May 2007 be full of exciting times, joyous memories, and love. So what is new in the world of Clifford B. Bowyer? First, I had mentioned in a previous posting that I had decided to write a book as a tribute to my father. This book has been finished, and copies have been made available to family members to read. I am still not certain whether I will attempt to publish this particular book or not, or just leave it as a "family only" book, but we'll see what the family thinks after they read it. However, with the book done, it's time to jump right back into the world of The Imperium Saga, and jump I have.... I have already done a few minor tweaks to some of the manuscripts that have not yet come out (some minor suggestions from my editor on one, and from some test-market readers on another). Nothing major (in fact, we're talking minutes, not hours or days with revisions, which is always a good thing). Then, I have begun pulling materials together for the Madrew comic. I've only been doing this for a few days, but I have already created a couple of hundred of pages of development materials (of course, some of it had been eluded to and conceived already with interactions with members of the Triad in the regular books), and the outline of the map of the land of the Madrew (the geography is done, I just need to fill things in as to where things will be located). I've also begun visualizing a few new races that may or may not ever come out in the scope of the comic, but is definitely something I know members of my RPG Development team will really get excited about (naturally, I love making the creatures and individuals who will become cornerstones for that part of the world going forward!). But, speaking of the game, that is the other thing sitting on my desk and calling to me. I have not worked on my portion of the game (I had been writing a chapter on Items and Equipment) since I got the news about my father, but I am ready to immerse myself with it again. I do also have an Intern joining me on a creative side to work on the d20 RPG game as a writer, so we should be going through, collaborating, and getting much of the first draft of the text of the book done over the next few months. Lastly, I have been doing a lot of work to try and find more ways to become more readily available to my readers and fans, and more interactive with you as well. The Fan Fiction site has been a great way to maintain a dialogue, but as one fan pointed out, it is not really promoted, and there are only eighteen members to the site. So, in addition to that, and this blog, I have registered at a couple of places to be able to interact more with readers and have more information out there.... A few people recommended MySpace, and I signed up for that late last night. You can find me at http://www.myspace.com/imperiumsaga. The second thing I signed up for is something called "Amazon Connect," where readers who have bought my books, people interested in my books, and people looking at my books on their site can get information about me, post messages, and read blogs there as well. You can check that out at AmazonConnect. The first draft of my first Newsletter has also been created. I'll run it by a few people first and then post it once any little tweaks are made. Coming soon to a blog or email box near you! Wednesday, December 27th, 2006, 2:15 PM As I write this entry, probably my last entry of 2006, I want to begin by wishing everybody a Happy New Years, and hope that you all had a pleasant and enjoyable holiday season. As I look forward to 2007, there are many exciting things that are happening. First, I have two new titles that will be coming out in February, including the finale of the Fall of the Imperium Trilogy, The Siege of Zoldex, and the sixth book of The Adventures of Kyria, Quest for the Shard. After 2006, where only one title was released, having a big beginning to 2007 is quite welcome indeed. If all goes according to plan with the publisher, at least one other title should be published in 2007 as well, probably in September (the seventh book of The Adventures of Kyria, The Spread of Darkness). I would like to provide and update and possible release schedule for Ilfanti and the Orb of Prophecy as well, but there is nothing new to report there yet. I still have a few minor tweaks for it, then it has to be edited, and we're still waiting on the availability of Todd Lockwood, who said that he was interested in doing the cover. All things combined, it may be a 2007 release, but it is probably too early to clearly announce that. The last couple of updates that I have to finish of the year is some information about being in touch with you, the fans, a little more. I've begun registering and requesting information for my convention appearances this year. I was too late to get back to Arisia this year, but hope to be there in 2008. I am looking to return to Boskone, ConnectiCon, and United FanCon this year, and add at least Anime Boston and ReaderCon to my list of appearances. I am also open to suggestions if there are New England based conventions that I am unaware of that you think would be good to go to (go to CONTACT for contact information). Lastly, on a Fan-constructed Fan Fiction website, it was suggested that I should try and promote that site a bit more. Another fan pointed out that it was a "Fan Fiction" site, and if there are promotions, it should be done by the fans, but it did get me thinking. I have been very active on that site, even posting some short stories of my own for the fans who are part of the group. Since my first release, I have also always wanted to be interactive and have numerous ways that people could get in touch with me, have some direct communication and feedback. As such, there are a few things I am going to look into (such as the Amazon.com blog as another place where people can communicate with me), but I am intending to design a form of "Newsletter." Before leaving my old Corporate America job to be a writer, I used to work on the divisions newsletter, so I have experience with constructing things of that nature. Over the next few weeks, I'm going to tinker with a few ideas and see what I can come up with (different sections of the newsletter, topics of interest, informational updates, etc). Then I'll do probably a quarterly release that people can download here, have emailed to them, or pick up at one of my appearances. I do not intend to ever sell any contact information or anything like that, only have the quarterly file sent to people. If you are interested in receiving it, send me an email with your email address and I'll add you to the list. All said and done: have a great New Years and I'll look forward to hearing from you all in 2007! Tuesday, December 12th, 2006, 4:28 PM Over the past couple of weeks, I have been receiving a fair amount of letters from fans about the books, the game, and other things that I have been working on. In the midst, I have heard about people using my character names in online video games (I loved the one where one fan was playing with a character named Braksis, and was killed by another fan, using the name of none other than Rawthorne!), telling me that my characters are full of life (deep, developed, and definitely deserving of future books about them), and a personal favorite: that I'm the best fantasy writer out there now (that's pretty high praise indeed!). It's always great to hear the enthusiasm, love, and admiration that readers get from my books. I put a considerable amount of time and effort into these books, beginning with research, plot and character development, and bringing everything to life for you. To hear how much others enjoy this makes it all worthwhile. According to a previous posting, I mentioned that I was taking a slight break to work on a book that is a tribute to my father (Continuing the Passion). I am currently a little more than half way through, and if things continue as they have, will be done with this book prior to the new year. With that in mind, what is next for the world of the Imperium Saga? There are so many options, and so many things I want to work on, that at times that is a question I ask all too often. One day I want to work on a prequel, the next I want to focus on books following the current trilogy, then I think about the Council of Elders tales book. So, I've pretty much made up my mind based upon the priority of what supposed to be coming out. Since I know, I want to share that with you as well....
All in all, those are the Imperium Saga things planned going forward. So, for those of you who agree with the fans who contacted me asking for more, here's a little glimpse at what I have planned for the future and what is to come. I don't want to give away any spoilers (though I am always sorely tempted!), but this does at least give an outline of what is in the works. Check back for more updates, and official announcements about releases, new projects, completed projects, et al. Have a great holiday season (and don't forget to check out Silver Leaf Books's 50% sale on all of my titles!). Wednesday, November 22nd, 2006, 10:40 PM Good evening all. I wanted to begin by wishing everyone a great holiday tomorrow. I hope you all have a wonderful time with whatever it is you are doing for the Thanksgiving Holidays.
Also, in light of the holidays, Silver Leaf Books has just begun it's Holiday Sale. All of my current titles, posters, and art prints can be ordered at a 50% discount! Visit the SLB Store's Special Offers for the holiday sale! Here is also the homepage ad:
Thursday, November 16th, 2006, 7:08 PM TALES OF THE COUNCIL OF ELDERS CONTEST! At several of my recent events, including a presentation at Holliston High School, a Holliston library discussion, and this past weekends convention (United FanCon), I have been handing out a "contest" that I am currently running to find some additional authors for an upcoming book of short stories based upon the Mage's Council leaders, the Council of Elders. Thus far, four of the nine stories are already selected, including one by myself, one by Silver Leaf Books author Stuart Clark, and two more by three members (one co-author story) of the Development Team working on the Imperium Saga RPG. For information on how to be considered for one of the final five tales, download and view the attached contest document. I look forward to reading your Imperium Saga submissions. Good luck! Monday, November 13th, 2006, 5:12 PM Good evening all. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone who visited my mother and I at our booth at United FanCon this past weekend. As has become a trend, we have now had our best convention outing, and the support and passion about my books from everyone who visited us has been tremendous and amazing. The convention was fun for everyone, with many new friends made, including some artists and other authors as well. Best of luck to everyone with your books, artwork, and projects to come. I look forward to seeing more of each and every one of you at future events. I also enjoyed seeing several celebrities at the event, including William Shatner (who needs no introduction at all!), Jewel Staite of one of my favorite short-lived Sci-Fi shows: Firefly, and especially Grace Park (Boomer on the new hit Sci-Fi series Battlestar Galactica) who stayed beyond her signing time to give me a final autograph of the day (though I was late because I had quite a few signings of my own, so I'm just really glad that she was willing to take the time to squeeze me in!). I hope that everybody enjoyed the convention, and for those of you who are continuing the Imperium Saga, and those of you who are now new to it, thank you for your support and I hope that you enjoy the books and series! Friday, November 10th, 2006, 8:43 AM On the 22nd of last month, I lost my father. Words alone cannot express the emotions I am feeling, and what both my mother and I (and all of my family for that matter) is going through. For those of you who saw the announcement and offered a kind word and support, I thank you. In light of this, I have been doing a lot of thinking about the current path of my writing career. Earlier this year, I had written my first non-Imperium Saga novel, a slightly futuristic (about 50 years) military / espionage storyline. Within this book, I introduced a character, Chief Wallace Everett Boylan (Chief WEB). When I wrote the book, my father, who had served in the military during World War II in the Navy, and then in the Army Reserves until retirement, helped me to make the military aspects of the book feasible and realistic. My dedication draft at the time was "In ho |
