Another RPG sale

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

Since we've decided to go ahead with our crazy idea of creating an RPG zine, we've decided to give you the opportunity to download our games for half price at DriveThruRPG: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/publisher/2805/

You can download Rocks on the Other Side, Ephemeris 2.0, and The Divided States of America for just $5. The Battle for Turtle Island can be yours for just $1.50. And we've even thrown in the Complete Ephemeris 1.0 tome for $10.

Order soon, as time is limited. We don't have a definite release date for the new zine, but we are hard at work on it. Keep an eye on this page for more information as it becomes available.

 

Half price novels

In anticipation of the release of my new novel, all of my novels are currently available for half price...

Echoes from the Deep: https://books2read.com/b/b5Y97p

A Problem in Translation: https://books2read.com/b/b6a1xx

Red Moon Rising: https://books2read.com/b/mKAaYE

The Opium of the People: https://books2read.com/b/4DnLZd

Order from DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/browse/pub/16618/

The $1 e-book of the week

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

This week's $1 e-book is Goatherds & Gods by James B. Baker and J Alan Erwine. Download it today at https://books2read.com/b/49OL2w

Joseph was born the son of a goatherd chieftain, destined to do nothing more than lead a small band of goatherds, Joseph quickly becomes disillusioned with his tribe and his life, and when his young wife and child die, Joseph leaves his people behind, having no idea what Yahovah has planned for him.

Joseph meets his new wife, Yasmen, and with the help of an ancient man who only calls himself the Elder Rishni, Joseph becomes the leader of a new group of people, a group that grows in numbers and strength, and eventually grows powerful enough to possibly challenge the mighty Indo-Aryan armies and their mighty leader, the Kzer…possibly…

 

International e-books

It's come to my attention that most of my e-books have not been available internationally except through Amazon or Kobo, so I've fixed that, and they should start appearing in stores outside of the US over the next few days. This just applies to my actual books. I haven't fixed the individual stories yet...there are almost 70 of them, so that will take a while.

GM's Day Sale

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

DriveThruRPG is currently running their GM’s Day Sale, and this is your chance to save up to 40% off of our titles. Check the sale out at https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/publisher/2805/

You can get The Divided States of America Role Playing Game for 20% off during this sale.

 

Changes to my website

I'm making a few minor adjustments to my website. In the past, most of my purchase links have gone to Amazon, but starting with my new release, The Lies of Belial, the links will be going to Books2Read. I know there are quite a few people that don't like to buy from Amazon, and I understand that...

For now, these are just changes that I will make going forward. There are numerous purchase links on my site, and it will take a very long time to change all of them.

Drop by the site, and have a look: https://www.jalanerwine.com/

The Lies of Belial

Bradley makes a discovery on the hellish corp-moon known as Belial that could ultimately change the course of human history, but will the corps let him disclose his discovery…and for that matter, will they even let him live?
Originally released in the collection of the same name, the story is now available for the first time on its own.

Order from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZ1JXS64

Order from DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/514092/

Order from a different seller: https://books2read.com/u/4N0P2o

Maybe it's ego

Maybe I'm just feeding my ego...I don't know, but I've decided to put together two massive books, both hardback. One will be a complete collection of all of my short stories, and I'm still debating if I want to include the new story I'm working on.

The second book will be a complete collection of all of my novels, including the new one that I hope to have finished in the next couple of months. On this one, I'm debating whether or not to include Goatherds & Gods, which is a reworking of a James B. Baker novel, so not entirely my own.

I'm still working on titles, but something including "the long ones" and "the short ones" are what are bouncing through my head right now. Like I said, I'm not even sure if there's really a market for something like this, but yeah, I think it would be really cool to see these books in print!

I also haven't decided yet if I will be making them available as e-books.

Keep an eye on this page, as eventually, I will figure all of this out.

Bestseller for February 2025

This month's bestseller wasn't even close. The Divided States of America RPG had the biggest first month of any title that I've ever released.

Order from DriveThruRPG: https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/product/511906/

Order from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DWQJTXMV

Order from another retailer: https://books2read.com/u/4jzYgk

No one can say with any reasonable certainty when the United States of America began to fall apart. Many point to the presidential election of 2016, but most believe the breakup started long before this. Now, in the year 2110, the former United States is made up of fourteen nation-states and The Wastelands. Some of the nation-states have prospered under self-rule, while others have declined. Some nation-states are very accepting of outsiders, while others trust no one…sometimes not even their fellow citizens. There is chaos in some places, and order in others…sometimes too much order.

The first state to break away from the USA was, not unexpectedly, Texas, and from there, things continued to spiral out of control as the national government tried to hold on to control that the state governments wanted back, and eventually, the federal government was no longer able to control the states, and the break-up came about.

Some of the nation-states kept the name “America” in their new names. Some did this as a tribute to where they had come from, while others did it to remind their citizens of what they were breaking away from. Others adopted new names, or took on names that were given to them.

Borders in some areas are heavily patrolled, even walled in places, while other borders have no protection at all…mostly it depends on the views of the new government and its citizens, even though sometimes those two groups still don’t agree. Let’s face it, greed and independence are bred into the human race, and even allying with others that have similar viewpoints does not necessarily mean that they will always get along.

As a game, players create characters with seven attributes that are used to enhance a variety of skills. As the characters advance, they gain experience, which can be put towards their skills, their health, or banked to allow the player to raise their character’s attributes.

I think I may have lost my mind

I think I may have lost my mind, but for a very brief period of time, you can save 90% off of my titles...short stories, novels, collections...they're all at DriveThruFiction at https://www.drivethrufiction.com/browse/pub/16618/, and they're all 90% off.

I think the men in the white coats may be coming to get me soon...

The second draft is done

I've just completed the second draft of my new novel, which unfortunately still doesn't have a title...which is weird, since titles usually come so easily to me.

I'm a little happier with the way it's turning out, but it's still going to need a great deal of work. The main character is now much more of a real person to me.

I think this novel has been more difficult because it's basically told from just the main character's perspective. There are no chapters, or even scenes that don't feature her. Usually my novels bounce from character to character, but hopefully this will make her a likeable character...sure she can be a little petulant at times, and she might cry a bit too much, but she's also a teenager. But I think she's believable because I can see bits of all three of my daughters in her.

Now the book sits for a little while, and then I'll get back to another draft. I'm figuring AT LEAST two more drafts to get it where I want it to be.

A letter to the leaders of the world

This is a very brief letter that I'd like to address to the leaders of the world. I've said all of this before, but obviously, I need to say it again...

1984, A Handmaid's Tale, Fahrenheit 451, and even my Opium of the People were meant as warning messages. They were not intended to be blueprints for you to use to destroy our world.

The people of the world would like their democracies back.

Thank you!

The Divided States of America RPG is a bestseller

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

The Divided States of America RPG is a bestseller at DriveThruRPG.

It currently sits at #57 among small press publishers: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/browse?sortBy=titleStripPopularity&indie=true&languageId=1&partial=true&page=2#Hottest%20Small%20Publishers

And #113 among all titles…including major publishers: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/browse?sortBy=titleStripBestselling&partial=true&excludeGiftCerts=true&page=4#Bestselling%20Titles

 

The Divided States of America Role Playing Game is here

No one can say with any reasonable certainty when the United States of America began to fall apart. Many point to the presidential election of 2016, but most believe the breakup started long before this. Now, in the year 2110, the former United States is made up of fourteen nation-states and The Wastelands. Some of the nation-states have prospered under self-rule, while others have declined. Some nation-states are very accepting of outsiders, while others trust no one…sometimes not even their fellow citizens. There is chaos in some places, and order in others…sometimes too much order.

The first state to break away from the USA was, not unexpectedly, Texas, and from there, things continued to spiral out of control as the national government tried to hold on to control that the state governments wanted back, and eventually, the federal government was no longer able to control the states, and the break-up came about.

Some of the nation-states kept the name “America” in their new names. Some did this as a tribute to where they had come from, while others did it to remind their citizens of what they were breaking away from. Others adopted new names, or took on names that were given to them.

Borders in some areas are heavily patrolled, even walled in places, while other borders have no protection at all…mostly it depends on the views of the new government and its citizens, even though sometimes those two groups still don’t agree. Let’s face it, greed and independence are bred into the human race, and even allying with others that have similar viewpoints does not necessarily mean that they will always get along.

As a game, players create characters with seven attributes that are used to enhance a variety of skills. As the characters advance, they gain experience, which can be put towards their skills, their health, or banked to allow the player to raise their character’s attributes.

Order from DriveThruRPG: https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/product/511906/

Order from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DWQJTXMV

Order from another retailer: https://books2read.com/u/4jzYgk

Bestseller for January 2025

Once again, the new game continues its big run!

Check it out at:

DriveThruRPG: https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/product/497132/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ9SGT7G

Other retailers: https://books2read.com/u/bayExy

Humanity has finally made it to the stars, and they’ve found they’re not alone. They are one of twenty species making their way around the galaxy. Some of the species they’ve met are friendly, while some are quite hostile, and others are just plain indifferent. The galaxy is full of warfare, trade, and unexplored star systems. This is the galaxy of Ephemeris 2.0.
The game features thirteen different character classes and twenty different species. You can play a Clipsie Cyber Wizard, a Human Pirate, or maybe a Taurin Nanist. Build your characters up with goods, cybernetic implants, genetic modifications, and special abilities that are unique to each class.
The universe of Ephemeris 2.0 is yours to explore, and yours to build. The new version of the game is a d20 version, and the rules are less convoluted, and more player friendly than the previous version.
Now, step into the greatest science fiction adventure that you’ve ever been on!

50% off at Ko-fi

I have a few of my titles listed at Ko-fi as PDFs, and you can download them for 50% off by going to https://ko-fi.com/jalanerwine/link/50OFF, or you can go to https://ko-fi.com/jalanerwine and use the code 50OFF at checkout.

A short story collection bundle

All of my independently published short story collections are now available in one bundle for just $12 at https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/509887/

Even though it doesn't feature my collections that are available from traditional publishers, it does feature almost all of my 70 published short stories. And just as a disclaimer, some stories do appear in multiple titles.

Another RPG sale

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

As we prepare for the release of our new RPG, The Divided States of America, we’ve put all of our RPG titles on sale for 75% off at DriveThruRPG: https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/browse/pub/2805/

A Divided States of America collection

I've put all of my Divided States of America stories from Nomadic Delirium Press together in one collection.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTLMSKD9

DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/509453/

Other vendors: https://books2read.com/u/bzOMg2

No one can say with any reasonable certainty when the United States of America began to fall apart. Many point to the presidential election of 2016, but most believe the breakup started long before this. Now, in the year 2110, the former United States is made up of 13 nation-states and The Wastelands. Some of the nation-states have prospered under self-rule, while others have declined. Some nation-states are very accepting of outsiders, while others trust no one…sometimes not even their fellow citizens. There is chaos in some places, and order in others…sometimes too much order.
This was the theme created by Nomadic Delirium Press editor J Alan Erwine. With these ideas in mind, many authors have contributed to this concept, including Erwine, and now for the first time, all of the stories he’s written for The Divided States of America (so far) are gathered together in one collection.

So this will be happening next month

We have a rough draft

I typed the last words of the very rough draft of my new novel today. This one is definitely going to take a lot of work to fix. It's shorter than I wanted, which isn't a surprise. I don't include much description in my rough drafts (yeah, I know there's not much in my final drafts either), but that will lengthen it, and I will have to add several scenes to make sense of some of the things I wrote as I was going.

With my main character being a teenager, I'm debating whether to market this one as mainstream SF or YA SF, but I guess I have time to figure that out, as it will be at least three more drafts before I'm done...at least.

And I still need a damn title!

Progress on the book...so far

My new novel has now reached 40,000 words, so I thought I'd give an update on the progress. This book has taken me on so many unexpected twists and turns that it's going to take a great deal of revision. There are entire scenes, and possibly even entire chapters that will have to be created during my first revisions...of course I have to finish the book first.

There are parts of this book that I love, and there are parts of this book that I hate. The biggest difference from my past novels is that this one is told entirely from one character's POV, a teenage girl. That alone has created numerous challenges, but it has been fun.

I'm looking forward to finishing the first draft soon, but there will be more revisions on this one than what is typical for my work, as it just needs more revisions, but hopefully in a few months, I will have a nice new novel. My fifth, or sixth if you count the one I co-wrote.

Still don't have a title though...

Ways to help

There are a few different ways that you can help my career, if you're so inclined.

First) This one is quite obvious...buy my books. If you've read something of mine that you liked, you'll probably like others. If you haven't read my stuff, I bet there's something there you'd like. Check everything out at http://www.jalanerwine.com

Two) Reviews!!! These are so important to writers, and not just for their egos. It helps their book get noticed, and it boosts the chances of it being seen on book seller websites. So, if you've liked something of mine that you've read, please review it.

Three) Feel free to donate to my ko-fi to keep me at my desk. https://ko-fi.com/jalanerwine

#KofiGoalChallenge

New RPG

In my WIPS post yesterday, I mentioned that I was starting work on a new RPG, and that I'd talk more about it later...well, later is here. After a huge creative outburst yesterday, I can now announce that I'm hard at work on an RPG based on The Divided States of America, a series of stories published by Nomadic Delirium Press.

Not sure when I'll have it done, and although it will have some similarities to the other three RPGs I've created, it will also have some definite differences.

In the meantime, you can check out all of the Divided States of America stories at https://www.drivethrufiction.com/saleguide.php?src=sgrc, and oh yeah, they're 50% off for a limited time.

New Year, New Game Sale

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

DriveThruRPG is having their annual New Year, New Game sale, which means it's your chance to download a new RPG for cheap! Check it out at https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/rpg_newyear.php?manufacturers_id=2805&filters=0_0_0_0_0_44298#selectpub

You can download Ephemeris 2.0 for $7.99. Rocks on the Other Side for $5.99, or The Battle for Turtle Island for $1.79.

WIPS

As the new year starts, I thought I'd give an update on what I'm currently working on. Since my first writing book, Do You Really Want to be a Writer? was Nomadic Delirium Press' second best seller of the year, I'm hard at work on Do You Really Want to be a Science Fiction Writer? About 25% of the way through the 1st draft.

The new novel sits at just over 35,000 words, and I will hopefully be finishing the very rough draft soon. This one has been a battle, but I think I'm happy with the way it will ultimately turn out.

I'm working on two supplements for the new Ephemeris 2.0 RPG, and I've also started work on a brand new RPG that I think will be a departure from the first three I've created. There will be more on this in the near future...I hope.

There are a couple of other things that I'm working on in between these, but these are the titles that I'm sure I'll finish, and that I'm excited about.

Keep an eye on this blog and my homepage at http://www.jalanerwine.com for more.

 

Divided States of America sale

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

Political bitterness continues to plague the United States. Will this eventually lead to The Divided States of America?

All of our Divided States of America stories, and the first collection, are on sale for 50% off for a limited time at DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/browse/pub/2805/.

Bestseller for December 2024

The bestseller for December 2024, and my bestseller for the entire year was Ephemeris 2.0

Check it out at:

DriveThruRPG: https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/product/497132/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ9SGT7G

Other retailers: https://books2read.com/u/bayExy

Humanity has finally made it to the stars, and they’ve found they’re not alone. They are one of twenty species making their way around the galaxy. Some of the species they’ve met are friendly, while some are quite hostile, and others are just plain indifferent. The galaxy is full of warfare, trade, and unexplored star systems. This is the galaxy of Ephemeris 2.0.
The game features thirteen different character classes and twenty different species. You can play a Clipsie Cyber Wizard, a Human Pirate, or maybe a Taurin Nanist. Build your characters up with goods, cybernetic implants, genetic modifications, and special abilities that are unique to each class.
The universe of Ephemeris 2.0 is yours to explore, and yours to build. The new version of the game is a d20 version, and the rules are less convoluted, and more player friendly than the previous version.
Now, step into the greatest science fiction adventure that you’ve ever been on!

Support me at Ko-Fi

 If you enjoy my work, then please feel free to drop by my Ko-Fi page at https://ko-fi.com/jalanerwine and show your support. You don't have to donate. I've made several of my titles available for download, and even a few short stories that are available for just 50 cents.

Get both of my screenplays for just $3.50

You can pick up both of the screenplays that I've written so far for just $3.50 from DriveThruFiction at https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/506608/

That means you get The Opium of the People and A Problem in Translation. These are the first two screenplays that I've written, and both are based on my novels.

I'm currently at work on an original screenplay, although it's definitely fighting me...

The Ephemeris 2.0 Book of 1st Level Characters

Every PC and NPC has to start somewhere, and that’s what this book gives you. Here you’ll find 60 1st level characters that are ready to be played by players or used by the GM to inhabit their game. Each character is already equipped with items and skills. All that’s needed are a name, a gender, and maybe a few more items.

Order from DriveThruRPG: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/506564/

Paperback coming soon from Amazon and other retailers.

The Abandoned Cargo Ship is here!

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

The Abandoned Cargo Ship, the first adventure for Epehemeris 2.0, is here!

DriveThruRPG: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/504230/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPGPWWM9

A ship full of cargo, and it’s been abandoned? What a great way to start out a career! The characters learn of an abandoned cargo ship in Rian space, and decide it’s time to salvage the cargo for themselves. It can’t be that dangerous, right? What could go possibly go wrong?
The Abandoned Cargo Ship is an Ephemeris 2.0 adventure for characters of 1st to 4th level.

Not Much Time Left

There's not much time left to download my special holiday collection of stories that aren't holiday stories!!! And remember, if you're a Kindle Unlimited member, it's a free download.

Order today at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNZR32WG

For the 2024 holiday season, I decided to put together a small collection of some of my short stories. None of them are actually holiday themed, since with the way I tend to write, I’d probably end up killing Santa over and over again.
Instead, what you’re holding is a collection of some stories that have been well received over the years, and I’m making this a Kindle Unlimited title, so those of you that are members, you can download it for free.
This year’s edition contains the same eight stories that last year’s edition had, but I’ve also added my stories “Origins” and “Choices.”
So, enjoy a few stories while you’re shopping, wrapping, celebrating, or whatever it is you do over the holidays.

A book for your to-read list

If you're looking for a new book to add to your wish list, then I would strongly recommend Open Mic Night at the Nexus by Ian Brazee-Cannon.

Ian is possibly one of the most underrated authors in the genre, and definitely deserves more attention.

Pre-order the book today at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DNNVY92Z

For years, Ian Brazee-Cannon has been subjecting his readers to his twisted view of the universe, and now Nomadic Delirium Press has gathered up a mere smattering, just a taste, a mere morsel, of some of those tales.
Journey into Ian’s mind…if you dare, and venture to other times and other places like none you have imagined, but make sure you’re buckled up because you have no idea where his imagination might take you…and we don’t think he really does either…

The Abandoned Cargo Ship is available for pre-order

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

The Abandoned Cargo Ship is the first adventure for the Ephemeris 2.0 science fiction RPG, and it's now available for pre-order at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPGPWWM9

A ship full of cargo, and it’s been abandoned? What a great way to start out a career! The characters learn of an abandoned cargo ship in Rian space, and decide it’s time to salvage the cargo for themselves. It can’t be that dangerous, right? What could go possibly go wrong?
The Abandoned Cargo Ship is an Ephemeris 2.0 adventure for characters of 1st to 4th level.

We Are Not All Right

If you're looking for a great collection of science fiction short stories, look no further than We Are Not All Right by Mike Morgan. 10 wonderful stories that will definitely keep you entertained.

Order today at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DMTPGL5D

Journey through 10 short stories of chaos, conflict, and confusion. In these worlds, giant spiders control household pests, stealth bombers reengineer the atmosphere, and foul horrors lurk beneath mind-altering trees.
You’ll be fine as long as you remember a few golden rules: Beware sales contracts offered by friendly environmental saviors, don’t ask what it took to build a towering wall along Texas’s southern border, and—whatever you do—don’t ask aliens whether they believe in God.
Chances are you’ll be fine. The gladiatrixes are highly unlikely to stab you (they haven’t killed anyone in forever), the trolls are only wiping out one major city today, and the nameless abomination inside that mountain-sized tomb is guaranteed to stay asleep (unless you insist on letting off a bunch of explosives).
Even if things go completely wrong, you can rest easy in the knowledge that an eternal spirit of compassion is ready and waiting to give you comfort… as your species dies out.
We’re all… all right… Aren’t we?

The Black Friday sale is still running

My Black Friday sale is still running at DriveThruFiction. You can save 75% off of my novels, screenplays, short story collections, and individual short stories.

Start downloading at: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/browse/pub/16618/

Bestseller for November 2024

The bestseller for November 2024, and the biggest seller I've ever had in one month is the new Ephemeris 2.0 RPG.

Check it out at:

DriveThruRPG: https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/product/497132/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ9SGT7G

Other retailers: https://books2read.com/u/bayExy

Humanity has finally made it to the stars, and they’ve found they’re not alone. They are one of twenty species making their way around the galaxy. Some of the species they’ve met are friendly, while some are quite hostile, and others are just plain indifferent. The galaxy is full of warfare, trade, and unexplored star systems. This is the galaxy of Ephemeris 2.0.
The game features thirteen different character classes and twenty different species. You can play a Clipsie Cyber Wizard, a Human Pirate, or maybe a Taurin Nanist. Build your characters up with goods, cybernetic implants, genetic modifications, and special abilities that are unique to each class.
The universe of Ephemeris 2.0 is yours to explore, and yours to build. The new version of the game is a d20 version, and the rules are less convoluted, and more player friendly than the previous version.
Now, step into the greatest science fiction adventure that you’ve ever been on!

The Ephemeris Creature Comendium is here!

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

The Ephemeris Creature Compendium is now available for Ephemeris 2.0.

Order from DriveThruRPG: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/501062/

Order from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DLV9S7Y6

Order from other vendors: https://books2read.com/u/49qoKk

Every game needs creatures to challenge the characters, and Ephemeris 2.0 is no different. Step inside this tome and learn about new species that are on the edge of space travel, other creatures that can threaten the characters on a variety of worlds, and learn about creatures that live amongst the stars…and even creatures that live in hyperspace.
Discover the celestial wyrm, the mosicans, asteroid mites, and so much more!

Black Friday sale

My Black Friday sale has begun at DriveThruFiction. For a limited time, you can save 75% off of my novels, collections, and even individual short stories. Head over to https://www.drivethrufiction.com/browse/pub/16618/ and start downloading today.

Don't forget about my special holiday collection

My special collection of stories for the holidays (not holiday stories) is still available from Amazon, and if you're an Amazon Unlimited member, you can download it for free.

Download today at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNZR32WG

For the 2024 holiday season, I decided to put together a small collection of some of my short stories. None of them are actually holiday themed, since with the way I tend to write, I’d probably end up killing Santa over and over again.
Instead, what you’re holding is a collection of some stories that have been well received over the years, and I’m making this a Kindle Unlimited title, so those of you that are members, you can download it for free.
This year’s edition contains the same eight stories that last year’s edition had, but I’ve also added my stories “Origins” and “Choices.”
So, enjoy a few stories while you’re shopping, wrapping, celebrating, or whatever it is you do over the holidays.

Writing is hard work!

The first ten thousand words of my new novel flew by, and I have to admit that even I was impressed with some of my writing (usually I hate my stuff.) The next ten thousand words were a struggle, but I kept slogging through. The ten thousand I'm on now have been a tooth and nail struggle just trying to get each word out.

Anyone that tells you that writing is easy, or that they could write a novel if they just had the time is insane! Writing is hard work!

Updates to my website

I've made some updates to my website at https://jalanerwine.com/. Mostly it's adding my screenplays to the site, since this is a direction that I am definitely thinking about taking my writing...especially with the idea percolating in my brain right now.

My holiday collection is back

For the 2024 holiday season, I decided to put together a small collection of some of my short stories. None of them are actually holiday themed, since with the way I tend to write, I’d probably end up killing Santa over and over again.
Instead, what you’re holding is a collection of some stories that have been well received over the years, and I’m making this a Kindle Unlimited title, so those of you that are members, you can download it for free.
This year’s edition contains the same eight stories that last year’s edition had, but I’ve also added my stories “Origins” and “Choices.”
So, enjoy a few stories while you’re shopping, wrapping, celebrating, or whatever it is you do over the holidays.

Order today at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNZR32WG

Hello from Aurora, Colorado

I live in Aurora, Colorado...you know the place that has been taken over by Venezuelan gangs, the place where it's no longer safe to live, the place that needs to be liberated...only it's not.

My family and I are as safe in Aurora as we would be in just about any other big city. It is true that there were some Venezuelan gang members in a small part of our city, but most of them have been arrested. And the area they were in has had a gang problem for decades, like places in most big cities.

In Aurora, it is safe to walk the streets, to shop, to do whatever we need to do on a daily basis.

Please stop trying to make an example out of our city for political reasons...you're actually taking a problem that isn't real and creating a serious problem for those of us that actually live here. We just want to live our lives and be left alone.

Venezuelan gangs are not running our streets, and we don't need to be liberated.

Thanks for listening.

Anthology sale

From the Nomadic Delirium Press blog:

For a limited time, you can save 50% off of our anthologies at DriveThruFiction. Download today at: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/saleguide.php?src=sgrc

Bestseller for October 2024

The bestseller for October 2024 was actually the original Ephemeris RPG, mostly because of the 75% off sale that was run at DriveThruRPG, but that game is no longer available, but you can download Ephemeris 2.0...

DriveThruRPG: https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/product/497132/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ9SGT7G

Other retailers: https://books2read.com/u/bayExy

Humanity has finally made it to the stars, and they’ve found they’re not alone. They are one of twenty species making their way around the galaxy. Some of the species they’ve met are friendly, while some are quite hostile, and others are just plain indifferent. The galaxy is full of warfare, trade, and unexplored star systems. This is the galaxy of Ephemeris 2.0.
The game features thirteen different character classes and twenty different species. You can play a Clipsie Cyber Wizard, a Human Pirate, or maybe a Taurin Nanist. Build your characters up with goods, cybernetic implants, genetic modifications, and special abilities that are unique to each class.
The universe of Ephemeris 2.0 is yours to explore, and yours to build. The new version of the game is a d20 version, and the rules are less convoluted, and more player friendly than the previous version.
Now, step into the greatest science fiction adventure that you’ve ever been on!

Ephemeris 2.0 is here!

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

The wait is over! Ephemeris 2.0 is finally here! Order today at:

DriveThruRPG: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/497132/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ9SGT7G including print versions.

Other retailers: https://books2read.com/u/bayExy

Humanity has finally made it to the stars, and they’ve found they’re not alone. They are one of twenty species making their way around the galaxy. Some of the species they’ve met are friendly, while some are quite hostile, and others are just plain indifferent. The galaxy is full of warfare, trade, and unexplored star systems. This is the galaxy of Ephemeris 2.0.
The game features thirteen different character classes and twenty different species. You can play a Clipsie Cyber Wizard, a Human Pirate, or maybe a Taurin Nanist. Build your characters up with goods, cybernetic implants, genetic modifications, and special abilities that are unique to each class.
The universe of Ephemeris 2.0 is yours to explore, and yours to build. The new version of the game is a d20 version, and the rules are less convoluted, and more player friendly than the previous version.
Now, step into the greatest science fiction adventure that you’ve ever been on!

50 cent short stories

A short story for just 50 cents? That's right, you can download many of my individual stories for just 50 cents (they're usually 99 cents) at https://www.drivethrufiction.com/browse/pub/16618/

And, oh yeah, you can also download my novels and short story collections for half price!

Have you pre-ordered Ephemeris 2.0?

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

Ephemeris 2.0 will be here on October 30th, and you can still pre-order your e-book version today at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ9SGT7G or at https://books2read.com/u/bayExy. The rules will be available in hardcover or paperback on October 30th.

Humanity has finally made it to the stars, and they’ve found they’re not alone. They are one of twenty species making their way around the galaxy. Some of the species they’ve met are friendly, while some are quite hostile, and others are just plain indifferent. The galaxy is full of warfare, trade, and unexplored star systems. This is the galaxy of Ephemeris 2.0.
The game features thirteen different character classes and twenty different species. You can play a Clipsie Cyber Wizard, a Human Pirate, or maybe a Taurin Nanist. Build your characters up with goods, cybernetic implants, genetic modifications, and special abilities that are unique to each class.
The universe of Ephemeris 2.0 is yours to explore, and yours to build. The new version of the game is a d20 version, and the rules are less convoluted, and more player friendly than the previous version.
Now, step into the greatest science fiction adventure that you’ve ever been on!

My birthday, but you get the presents

For the rest of October you can help me celebrate my birthday, but you get the presents. Download any of my titles for 50% off at https://www.drivethrufiction.com/browse/pub/16618/. That's short stories, novels, and short story collections, all for 50% off!

Ephemeris sale and Ephemeris 2.0

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

Ephemeris 2.0 will be released on October 30th. Once that happens, all of the original Ephemeris titles will no longer be available. So, if you don't have all the titles you need, or if you haven't even played the game, you can download all of the titles for 75% off at https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/browse/pub/2805/

But time is running out!

 

 

 

 

 

And speaking of 2.0, the e-book version is available for pre-order at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ9SGT7G. The book will also be available in hardback and paperback...and it's a BIG BOOK!

Humanity has finally made it to the stars, and they’ve found they’re not alone. They are one of twenty species making their way around the galaxy. Some of the species they’ve met are friendly, while some are quite hostile, and others are just plain indifferent. The galaxy is full of warfare, trade, and unexplored star systems. This is the galaxy of Ephemeris 2.0.
The game features thirteen different character classes and twenty different species. You can play a Clipsie Cyber Wizard, a Human Pirate, or maybe a Taurin Nanist. Build your characters up with goods, cybernetic implants, genetic modifications, and special abilities that are unique to each class.
The universe of Ephemeris 2.0 is yours to explore, and yours to build. The new version of the game is a d20 version, and the rules are less convoluted, and more player friendly than the previous version.
Now, step into the greatest science fiction adventure that you’ve ever been on!

Ephemeris 2.0 is coming

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

Mark your calendars for October 30, 2024. This is the release date for the Ephemeris 2.0 RPG. This new edition is a d20 version, rather than a d6 version, it has less convoluted rules, and is much friendlier to the players.

You'll be able to select from 20 different species and 13 different character classes, and multi-classing is also an option. For those of you who have played the game before, much of it will look familiar, but markedly improved!

The e-book version of Ephemeris 2.0 is now available for pre-order at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ9SGT7G and at a variety of other retailers at: https://books2read.com/u/bayExy.

On October 30th, the book will also be available in both hardcover and paperback...both will be over 300 pages and 8.5X11. This is a big rulebook, and there will be lots of supplements and adventures coming over the next few years.

Bestseller for September 2024

Do You Really Want to be a Writer? has had another resurgence in sales. This seems to be the little book that could.

Order from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRK79PSV

Order from DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/466362/

Order from your favorite store: https://books2read.com/u/bwVAy9

Do you really want to be a writer? It's a serious question that anyone thinking about entering the field of writing should ask.
In this collection of essays, prize-winning science fiction author and editor J Alan Erwine uses his usual wit and sarcasm to educate and entertain potential writers as they start their journeys.
You won't find essays about plot or character development here, but instead, you'll find 17 essays that talk about the business of writing. Erwine uses his more than a quarter of a century of experience to talk about the submission process, and more importantly, what to do with your writing and career after you've started selling.
Do You Really Want To Be a Writer? is a great source of information for the new writer as well as the experienced writer.

The final Ephemeris sale!!!

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

Later this year, we will be releasing Ephemeris 2.0. At that time, all of the first edition titles will no longer be available, so this is your very last chance to download these titles.

Save 75% for a limited time at https://legacy.drivethrurpg.com/browse/pub/2805/

The year is 2185. The human race has gone to the stars, and found that they're not alone. Local space is teeming with civilizations, some hostile, some friendly, and some indifferent. This is the universe of Ephemeris.

Ephemeris is a game of galactic trade and galactic conquest; of inter-species conflict and cooperation. Ephemeris is a science fiction role playing game. Here you will be able to take on the role of your favorite alien species and your favorite class. You will be able to trade, fight, negotiate, conquer, whatever you'd like to do with your fellow players. You can play the role of an Althani Trader, or maybe an Arbonix Cyber Wizard, or maybe even a Human Nanist. You can create a party made up entirely of one species and set out to upset the trade routes of a rival species. Or maybe you want to create a party with a variety of species that preys upon the trading routes of the various civilizations. Or maybe you want to explore the ancient ruins on long dead planets, ruins that clearly show that there were other species roaming the spaceways in the past...but where are they now? You can fight in great wars, negotiate grand peace treaties, and explore sections of the galaxy that no sentient has ever explored. Or maybe your party has joined with one of the interplanetary corporations; corporations whose motives are never entirely clear. These are just some of the possibilities open to you.
The universe of Ephemeris is yours to do with as you please. What you now hold in your hands are the basic guidelines for the games. Here you'll find the races, classes, abilities, skills, weapons, and ships that allow you to create your own Ephemeris universe.

Now, step inside for the greatest science fiction adventure you've ever been on...

Another writing book?

As a follow up to my successful book Do You Really Want to be a Writer?, I am now working on the next logical step for me...Do You Really Want to be a Science Fiction Writer? I'd love to say it will be out by the end of the year, but I'm thinking it will probably be early next year.

And if you haven't downloaded Do You Really Want to be a Writer?, you can find it at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRK79PSV, and for a few more days it's on sale at: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/466362/

Traders of the Sirius Sector

From the Nomadic Delirium Press Blog:

We've always prided ourselves on the idea that we publish whatever we want, and in that light, we would like to present our very first card game...Traders of the Sirius Sector.

Trade is crucial in an intergalactic society. Can you be the greatest trader in the Sirius Sector? Collect ships, ship improvements, and star systems, while navigating the dangers of the trade world. Can you collect more credits than your opponents?

A science fiction card game for 2-4 players. The game features 325 cards, 200 credits cards, 4 ship cards, 20 event cards, and 101 game play cards.

You can buy the game at: https://www.drivethrucards.com/product/493147/ The price is a bit high, we'll admit, but that's mostly because of card production costs. In all honesty, our profit on this game is less than 10%, so we aren't price gouging. We are looking into a way to reduce the number of cards to try to cut the cost, but we still think you'll have fun with this one!!!

Short Story September

DriveThruFiction is currently running a sale on books about writing, and this gives you a chance to download Do You Really Want to be a Writer? for just $2.39. Download it today at https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/466362/

Do you really want to be a writer? It’s a serious question that anyone thinking about entering the field of writing should ask.

In this collection of essays, prize-winning science fiction author and editor J Alan Erwine uses his usual wit and sarcasm to educate and entertain potential writers as they start their journeys.

You won’t find essays about plot or character development here, but instead, you’ll find 17 essays that talk about the business of writing. Erwine uses his more than a quarter of a century of experience to talk about the submission process, and more importantly, what to do with your writing and career after you’ve started selling.

Do You Really Want To Be a Writer? is a great source of information for the new writer as well as the experienced writer.

A Problem in Translation: The Screenplay for just $1.99

The screenplay for my novel A Problem in Translation is now available for just $1.99, but for a limited time at https://books2read.com/u/bMEY1A

Originally available as a novel, now you can read A Problem in Translation in the format that many have said it should have been written in…a screenplay.
Humanity's first contact with an alien species, the Lemec, is complicated by the fact that the aliens don't use an entirely verbal language…not only that, but the other aliens in their "domain" seem to worship the Lemec as some type of gods, and as they seem to anticipate every move that Captain Shiro Takahashi and his crew make, humanity begins to think that maybe the other aliens know something that they don't.

Bestseller for August 2024

Goatherds & Gods was my top title for August of 2024. You can find it these booksellers:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D682Q9M5

DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/483552/

A variety of other publishers: https://books2read.com/u/49OL2w

Joseph was born the son of a goatherd chieftain, destined to do nothing more than lead a small band of goatherds, Joseph quickly becomes disillusioned with his tribe and his life, and when his young wife and child die, Joseph leaves his people behind, having no idea what Yahovah has planned for him.

Joseph meets his new wife, Yasmen, and with the help of an ancient man who only calls himself the Elder Rishni, Joseph becomes the leader of a new group of people, a group that grows in numbers and strength, and eventually grows powerful enough to possibly challenge the mighty Indo-Aryan armies and their mighty leader, the Kzer…possibly…

The Opium of the People: The Screenplay is available for just $1.49

My latest screenplay for my novel The Opium of the People is available for just $1.49 for a limited time at https://books2read.com/u/bzJqDE

It's often been said that J Alan Erwine's controversial novel, The Opium of the People should be a screenplay…and now it is.
The U.S. government has been overthrown! After a near-miss of a giant comet, the American people fall under the control of a radical right-wing fundamentalist Christian government, ruled by the Grand Patriarchs, that slowly strips away their freedoms and establishes a rule of law that even Hitler couldn't have dreamed up. Forced into virtual seclusion, Edward Silverberg, a former professor, finds himself on a path that will lead to either his destruction, or the destruction of the Grand Patriarchs…or maybe both.