ARES Virus: Arctic Storm Released

What would happen if a viral agent was released on American soil? How would local agencies react? How would the military respond? What if it was one of their own? Would they own it or attempt to cover it up? If a major operation was jeopardized because of the release, would that alter any of the decisions?

Well, after a long hiatus – far too long – I have released the first book in a new series, ARES Virus: Arctic Storm. I attempted to take a little different angle from A New World with this one, which was and still is difficult to do. I wanted to look at an apocalyptic event from a little higher perspective while still retaining a survivor points of view.  The difficult aspect is to not write the same books as in A New World.  The problem I faced was that I felt I had covered most of the scenarios one might face in such an event and had to come up with something different.  I hope that I managed to achieve that.

I have to say that it was hard to get back into the writing mode following the tenth book in A New World.  Although my mind was crowded with ideas, I couldn’t bring myself to stare at a blank piece of paper to begin the arduous task of filling that void with words.  It was what I assume postpartum depression might feel like.  At any rate, I sat down and forced the first few words to spill onto page one, then page two, etc.  Finally, the flow began and I lost what day it was.  I want to thank everyone for staying with me.  If you happen to pick up a copy, I hope that you enjoy the story.

To pick up your copy:
Amazon
Smashwords

Coming soon to other stores and paperback

A New World: Reckoning

Well, in a rather anti-climactic moment, I put the last word and period on the draft of the next book, A New World: Reckoning, last night.  I say it was anti-climactic because there was no build up inside of me anticipating the story, at least this book anyway, drawing to an end.  It just kind of, well, ended.  That being said, I have no idea when the editing will be complete and the book ready to be published.  Soon I hope but now I have to tackle the first round of edits, which I so dearly enjoy.

There were some who didn’t enjoy the turn the last book took but I only tell the story the way it wants to be told.  I know this sounds rather cliche but it’s the truth.  This book takes off from where the last one left off and, without giving any spoilers away, continues down the same path.  I will say that this one took off on its own like some of the others have.  What was meant to be only part of the book ended up filling the entire one.  So, that means that some of the story I meant to tell will have to be in the next one.  There’s your spoiler; yes, there is going to be another one.

It will be interesting to see what happens to the group next.  I mean in the next one after this.  It should prove to be interesting.  I am contemplating writing a companion book between this one and the next that will encompass the some of the stories of those bodies that Jack and the crew have run across.  I’m not sure about this as yet but they have a story to tell as well and it’s been tickling the few brain cells I have remaining.

Again, thank you for all of your support, kind message, and reviews.  I appreciate each and every one of them.  Receiving them truly does make my day.  I hope you have an awesome weekend.  I’ll just be here slowly going brain dead as I go through the edits.

 

John

Update Time

I suppose it’s time for an update on the next book, number nine.  I’m so good at blogging and keeping the web site up-to-date.  Yes, you can read facetious into that.  The writing on this one has been extremely slow, meaning, the words per day haven’t been all that spectacular.  So, late last night, I was actually rather surprised to see the word count at almost 74k.  I have absolutely no idea what that means in regards to when the book will be ready to publish, but hopefully soon.  Of course, it’s hard to write a story when most of the characters have perished.  You’d think that would make it easier but that’s just not the case.  Okay, I’m kidding, kind of, not really, maybe.

What’s the book title you ask?  Well, that is a very good question.  I had one in mind when I started but the story has, once again, left my control.  Parts that were to be included in this one will probably have to wait until the next book, yes, perhaps that’s a spoiler.  What that means though, is that I have no idea what this one will be called as yet.  I’m sure I’ll come up with something but right now the title is, A New World: F*#k It, I Have No Idea What to Call It.  Okay, either more or less caffeine is required.

So, in between wracking my brain for a title, I’ll be continuing on with jotting the occasional word down and hope some sense comes of it.  Eventually, the book will be finished or I’ll just throw a period down at the end of a random sentence and call it good.

I will admit that I’m a little disappointed with length that this particular episode has taken to write.  I had this killer cliff-hanger but, alas, it doesn’t look like I’ll be able to use it for the end of the book.  So disappointing.  Oh well, the story tells it like it wants to.  Of course, I’ll have to come up with something, maybe, and that really doesn’t bode well for the characters.  As a matter of fact, the characters all just turned over their shoulders and gave me a ‘WTF’ look.

Okay, it’s obvious that I’m in need of some medical attention.  So, I will leave you on this wonderful Tuesday evening and get back to the story.  As I mention is most every other post, I want to thank you all for your wonderful support.  You’re messages and reviews are both humbling and uplifting, so truly, thank you.  I hope you have an awesome evening and rest of your week!

John

A New World: Conspiracy Release

Well, after a long wait – not to mention, blood, sweat, and tears – the release of the 8th book is out.  At least on Amazon.  Okay, there wasn’t really any blood or sweat, but there were many tears of frustration.  Oh, and bruises from pounding my head on the desk.  Yes, I have problems.  You will see the book begin showing up in the other locations, iTunes, Sony, B&N, Kobo, other online locations in a couple of weeks.  Oh, and it’s on Smashwords.

The book takes a little different angle but I won’t give out any spoilers here.  Just suffice it to say that things became a little more difficult for our small group of survivors.  Or at least potentially so.  A lot of people asked who was shot and who the shooter was.  Well, I didn’t go into that with this book.  Perhaps the next one.  Haha…just kidding.  You’ll find out.

I want to say thank you to all of the veterans – past and present.  Your service is very much appreciated.  As I mentioned in a post on my Facebook page, I would like to extend that thanks to everyone in law enforcement, the fire services, and all responders.  You also put your lives on the line on a daily basis to protect and save others.  Seriously…Thank You!!!

I have to thank you, the readers and fans!  You have been so supportive – beyond anything I could ever imagine.  It’s you who keeps the story alive and going.  I thoroughly enjoy your messages and posts.  They truly keep me going.

There’s not really a whole lot more to say.  My mind is fried and there’s dinner and a movie to attend to.  I’ll be back at it very soon so hopefully you won’t have too long to wait for the 9th.  Ooops, there’s a spoiler.  No, the series doesn’t end with this one.  The coyotes are howling outside – maybe they are reading the book and voicing their opinion – and so, with that, I bid  you a good night.

Oh, I suppose I should leave a link to the book, and if you would leave a review when you finish, I would very much appreciate it.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GKHKXKE

Enjoy your week and I hope happiness and joy encompass  your lives!

John

 

Conspiracy Update

Well, in the wee hours of last Friday, I managed to finish the draft of the eighth book, A New World: Conspiracy. Since then I have been glued to the keyboard going through the first edits and finished those today. I now have this rectangular white spot in my vision. The manuscript has been carefully placed in the editor’s hands to let the magic be worked.  By the way, I suck at editing.  Which is unfortunate as I really enjoy it – read sarcasm.  

The cover has almost been completed and I’ll share a sneak preview of it very soon. When will it be finished and released you ask?  Excellent question.  The answer – I don’t know.  When the rough boulder of a draft I sent comes back gleaming and polished, I’ll have to format it for publication which takes months.  Kidding – it will take a day and then it will take up to 12 hours after I upload it to Amazon before it’s ready for purchase.  For the other online distributors, this could take a couple of weeks before it starts showing up.  I’m sure you all followed that but if you’re not baffled yet, I could throw in some math equations.

So, what does this all really mean? I’m expecting the book to be ready for release in about a week.  Yes, I know, I could have just said that.

As always, I really want to thank you for all of your support and messages. They are one of the highlights of my day.  Waking is another.  Wait, no it’s not.  Yes, I need more caffeine.  However, Battlefield 4 came out today so I must bid you adieu.  I hope your week treats you well and brings your dreams to life – if they’re good ones that is.

John

Summer Is Over

Unfortunately, summer has ended. Of course, I guess that depends on your perspective.  I took a little more time off than I usually do at the end of a book.  The sun came out, the kids came over, and I spent the summer hanging with them and taking a trip here and there.  Of course, I suppose that was bad timing seeing how the last book ended.  You have my apologies for leaving everything hanging like that. But now, the sun said its goodbye here for another few seasons – there are only really two here – and the wet weather has shown itself.  That means I sat down, dusted off the keyboard – I had to find it first – and began hammering out senseless words once again.

I had left the draft of the 8th book sitting close to the 1/3 mark, typing away on it periodically, but now I am tied to the chair.  Starting last Sunday evening, I passed the half way point last night.  There is a particular furry one here who isn’t appreciating my time spent in my chair much and lets me know from time to time his dissatisfaction.  So, I spend my time here and seeing to his whims.

The characters have been calling for some time and so I must answer their call.  Without giving any spoilers, there is a lot going on and it’s not easy keeping track of all the threads.  The action is slow to materialize but it’s coming and so I hope the writing will become easier as well.  Again, sorry to keep everyone waiting to see what happened after the ending of the last book.  Hopefully you won’t have too much longer to wait.  I don’t have a date or time line to when it will be ready as yet, but I’ll make sure and let you know when it’s drawing near.

Thank you so much for all of your words of encouragement and support.  And yes, those words of ‘when is it going to be done’.  I wish everyone a very happy week and hope it treats you well!

John

A New World: Rampage Draft

Happy weekend everyone.  I just finished the first draft of the seventh book, A New World: Rampage, yesterday and am engaged in that wonderful world of editing.  I’ll hopefully be able to finish that in the next few days and send it off to the real editor.  I’ve long ago found out that I suck at editing.  At any rate, I’m hoping the finalized version will be out on Amazon toward the end of the month with the other distribution following a couple of weeks after.  I thought, however, that I would leave you with this little tease from the new book.  Keep in mind that it’s in draft form so forgive any errors.

The snarling face vanishes in a mist of dark spray. Its trajectory is altered and it sails between Henderson and me, landing on the floor with a heavy thud. Robert’s smoking barrel in my periphery tells me he just saved my bacon. However, this has allowed another night runner to follow and dive into the air, descending at a rapid pace directly at Robert. I still haven’t reloaded and he isn’t able to turn quickly enough.

I open up and scream a picture message of “NO!” The night runner’s expression, with its lips peeled back in a snarl revealing a set of broken teeth, changes to one of confusion. This does nothing to arrest its swift dive however. Timing it, I bring the butt of my M-4 up and slam it into the side of its face, feeling the jolt run up my arms and into my shoulder. It spins in mid-air, its body slamming into both of us crosswise high on our chests. The forceful impact knocks both of us off our feet and we land heavily across several other bodies lying on the floor.

The core of the night runner body is across my chest, effectively pinning my arms and me beneath it. Its chest lies across Robert. The night runner begins thrashing and squirming, growling in an attempt to get at him. Its face lies close to Robert but it can’t immediately get to him without shifting positions. That doesn’t prevent it from trying though. I feel the vibrations of a deep growl coming from the night runner. I try to get leverage with my arms but I can only wriggle like the foul-smelling creature on me. Next to me, I feel Robert struggling to do the same.

“Shoot it! Shoot the motherfucker!” I shout, thinking Robert might have his weapon free.

A New World: Rampage

That’s at least what I’m calling the seventh book at this stage.  That may change as the story progresses.  However, I’m happy to say that I have started on the 7th book and just passed the 20,000 word mark.  That’s almost about a quarter of the way through as most of the books are between 90,000 and 100,000 words.  As far as a schedule for finishing?  Yeah, good question.  I have a few irons in the fire right now so the writing is not my usual daily average.  However, that may pick up soon.  I am hoping to finish, or be close to being finished, toward the end of March.  We’ll see how that schedule pans out.

Mark Tufo and I have also started on our collaboration and I’m happy to say we are a fair ways into it.  It’s a lot of fun to write and if you haven’t read his Zombie Fallout series, you should.

Other little tid bits.  I’m working on getting the series out on audiobooks.  I have a publisher and narrator ready.  I’m wanting them more to be acted out so that is taking it a little longer.  Hopefully though, you should see that coming out within the next four months or so.  There are a lot of other things happening with the books which I’ll share at a later point when those parts are a little farther along the path.  It’s pretty cool though.

At any rate, I just wanted to share that the seventh is started so you hopefully won’t have to wait too long to read about the fine memorial services… wait, was that a spoiler?  hehe… jk… maybe.  As always, thank you so much for the wonderful reviews and messages.  You continue to humble me with your support. We are just a few weeks into the new year but I hope that it has been treating each and every one of you well!

 

John

Update

Good afternoon everyone,

I figured it was time to give an update.  Dissension was released last month and I want to thank everyone for the great response.  I truly enjoy the great posts, messages, and reviews.  If you happen have read it and enjoyed it, I would definitely appreciate it if you could head over and leave a review.  And if you wouldn’t mind leaving a review for each of the books, that would be awesome.  Reviews are helpful for all authors for a variety of reasons:  Yes, they help sales, they give the author feedback so they know how it is being received – that only helps improve the writing and story line – and they give readers a perspective to help them decide.

Mark Tufo and I have started on our collaboration effort in getting Mike Talbot and Jack Walker together.  Mark is a great guy and the story is a blast to write.  I hope you enjoy the final product.  Mark has been gracious enough to host me and I’ll be heading there this weekend so we can further the story.  I’m sure there might be a beverage or two consumed, which will only enhance to story… haha.  I’m not sure of the time line for the publication of “A Shrouded World” but I’m thinking sometime toward the end of February.

I’ve started a forum on the web site – https://john-obrien.com/forum/  Feel free to drop by and comment or start your own topic.  I’ve put up a few discussion topics which include survival prep and planning, a place to write fan fiction, and, of course, discussions about the books.  Swing by when you get a chance and put in your two cents.  Well, that’s how much my thoughts are going for – I’m sure yours are worth a lot more.

That’s about it.  I’ll be starting on the seventh book following the publication of “A Shrouded World” and tentatively naming it “A New World: Rampage”.  I hope you enjoy your upcoming weekend!

John

Taking the Slow Road

So, as you most likely know by now, I’m not the best nor most consistent of bloggers. However, I am now being held here at the keyboard by gunpoint to give an update on the next book. As much as the following information is written under duress, I can attest that it is nonetheless true.

I have been been mercilessly glued to the keyboard writing on the sixth book, tentatively titled “A New World: Dissension”. *gun butt to the head* “Ouch.” Okay, so mercilessly glued may not be the correct terminology. I have been trying to write as much as possible but the story is coming along slowly. I am, however, just over a third of the way through the draft and hoping to have it finished or close to finished by the end of the month. Keep in mind that it is a “hopefully”.

I want to thank everyone for the wonderful messages. Your kind words make my day and I am quite humbled by your responses to the series. I also want to thank you for all of your reviews. I read each and every one of them whether positive or negative as I feel they help me become a better writer.

Jack and crew are heading off on their latest adventure and, without throwing spoilers out, the night runners are becoming more active. I’ll keep this short as the story is calling. Remember, watch your asses when entering darkened buildings.

John