James M. Vargo Books

Received the first review of my submission 'Prelude', quite an eye opener. Author critics are worth their weight in gold, and this one in particular did a great job of spotting confusing parts, mistakes and weak structure. And I thought I was almost there. Re-write, re-write, re-write, that's old advice. Then it's time for polishing. I thought that was it. The next step is the hardest one of all -- perfect. The adage, 'show don't tell', comes into play here, and I may never fully understand it. I'm also debating posting that 'Prelude' for the rare few that may read this post. Haven't decided.  

I may never be satisfied -- so I've left fate in others hands.  Upon several recommendations, I joined the online writers workshop (http://sff.onlinewritersworkshop.com/) where writers review and get reviewed, plus additional resources for the barely literate. Finally, a chance to gather opinions from total strangers. I'm not sure how many samples I'll submit; just depends upon feedback and usefullness.  Lots of great writers out there. I just checked out a member's website  ( Ian Tregillis ), who is soon published by TOR...for the next three years. Great stuff. Phenomenal writing.  I won't even pretend to ever write that well. And he's not the only one.   

   I love endearing characters and creating a world they can call home. Greynol Arowen is an Acolyte and 'Sage of Idarill', that is, if you consider the last half of his eighty years. In his begrudged retirement, Greynol should have enoyed his last years in repose; but a message arrives at his door, an invitation of sorts that reopens the mystery of his younger life. Once a swordman, champion and husband of Aliane, since lost to the enemy, Greynol discovers the past hid a secret beyond all reckoning: enslaved by a merciless enemy, his wife bore him a son. Forty years later, Fauglir, wielder of dark magic and minion of Illutar, the enemy of all fair kingdoms, claims to be that son. His offer is one of invitation and challenge...

Now it begins.    Actually, it began when I was about 12 years old.  A Rankin-Bass cartoon called  'the Hobbit' came on television,  you may have heard of it, and from there the fantasy genre had a new fan. Then came a fortunate gift: a 'the Lord of the Ring's'  boxed set pushed me deeper into a wonderful new realm. Books, games, role-playing,  all part of the process of exploring fantasy, became the norm. Some of us set out to try it ourselves.      Many folk write as a way to express themselves beyond idle conversation, and some do it very well. Bookstores are full of talented, gifted, and sometimes lucky authors. Fantasy is no exception. Striking out on the first two,  I'll give 'luck' a chance,  but you know what they say about luck. Anyway, keep reading...