Winter is Coming — E.J. Robinson

Yes, winter is coming, and although it might not bring a horde of white walkers descending on the masses, it does make life a little uneasier for those of us in the real north. Having lived 95% of my life in California, I’m continually asked what Minnesota is like. My answer is the same today as it was three years ago when we first arrived—it’s paradise except for the mosquitos and duration of the winter. Not that I mind the snow. Most of my young life was spent tumbling down the slopes of Lake Tahoe. Dig deep enough under the rocks of Heavenly or Northstar, traces of my blood can still be found from face plants stemming from suicidal snowboarding moves no expert today or rational person would dream of undertaking. Minnesota lacks the mountains for genuine slopes, but the inner tube rides are more my speed now anyway, especially with young kids.

For writers, winter does come with its pros and cons here in the land of 10,000 Lakes. On the positive side, being stuck in the igloo for a couple of months can be very conducive to writing. I often find myself piling up the word count and outputting some serious work. On the negative side, Minnesota has one of the highest rates of depression, acutely exacerbated by winter. I’ve heard it called “white out” and “snow funk” and a few others. As such, I find it important to get out, socialize, and find other ways to get exercise. Ironically, the sequel to THE SHINNING is coming out. While I definitely want to see it, I still haven’t read the book yet. And while King books often make great movies, the books are always superior. Still, this is one that has to be seen in the theater. Alas, I’m torn.

Recently I had a promotion for my first novel, Robinson Crusoe 2244, and the response has been great as always. I have some new fans following this blog and signing up for the newsletter. I could probably use both better, but as I loathe getting too much ancillary mail, I tend to err on the side of caution and refuse to inundate people unless I have something to say. As for my latest book, it’s at the latter end of the second rewrite. This is the most important one where the story’s real shape comes together and I often give it to my cabal of closest friends/readers to see where it’s at. I know I’ve been short on details, but new ideas make me a touch paranoid. The breakdown should come later next month and I know you guys will be happy.

With the kids back in school and the writing back in high gear, I’ve had a little extra time to pursue some passions of my own. As always, I’m playing D&D with our home group, still grinding our way through Dungeon of the Mad Mage. My bard character, Silas Sweettongue, is the classic archetype of roguish playboy adventurer a sardonic wit and a sly grin. If you like those kinds of characters, I encourage you to check out my fourth novel, CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS AND THE LOST CITY OF ATLANTIS. It has some of my best writing.

I’ve also made some hay in catching up on books and TV series I’ve missed. I’m not a big binge guy, but I did blow through the Bosch series. It’s based on the bestselling mystery novel series written by Michael Connelly. He’s one of the best and the TV show is a worthy translation. I also like STUMPTOWN, the P.I. show that features an equally tough, smart-aleck female detective that has great dialogue and acting.

Recent books include DARKDAWN by Jay Kristoff. This is the third and final book in a fantasy trilogy that knocked my socks off. I can’t think of any author out there whose writing I admire more right now. His gift for sharp dialogue, dark and edgy characters, and a willingness to “throw his b—-s out there” (Jerry McGuire reference) is what’s helped catapult him to the top of the genre. I’ve also read the latest Grisham and a massive two-book biography on Ol’ Blue Eyes. Looking forward to cracking The Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo next. Her prose is delicious as well.

Apologies for the span between updates. I’ll have much more to say in December. In leaving you, I offer this humble photo of mi Famiglia on Halloween. They ruled the night!

Best to all. Be good to yourselves and others.

Happy reading.

EJR