tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-205477962024-02-22T11:48:09.847-08:00The Horrible TruthThe official site of thriller writer Anthony IzzoAnthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.comBlogger288125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-59711525269941902252021-05-31T06:34:00.000-07:002021-05-31T06:34:10.180-07:00Saw A Quiet Place II This Weekend<p>Jenn and I went for lunch yesterday, then saw <i>A Quiet Place II</i> at the Aurora Theater. The Aurora is a great little theater. One screen, and it's about a quarter mile from our house, right in the heart of the village. This was my first trip to a theater since March of 2020, when Jenn and I saw <i>Birds of Prey</i>. Seeing as we're both fully vaccinated, we felt comfortable going to the movies. </p><p>I enjoyed the movie overall. At just over an-hour-and-a-half, it moves briskly and generates some good tension (and quite a few jump scares). It could've benefited from another twenty minutes of run time. We get to witness the initial arrival of the creatures and the mass panic it causes. The film generates a genuine sensation of dread as a black, comet-like object streaks across the sky, heralding the arrival of the creatures. Soon after, chaos erupts. I would've liked to seen the film spend a little more time on this, however, the sequence was well done. After the initial attack, the movie jumps ahead to where the first film left off. </p><p>There are a few creepy set pieces where we only get a brief glimpse of things. Again, it would've been cool to see the film explore these a bit more. I'm thinking of the ruined train complete with dried-out corpses. The ending was abrupt and left questions answered, setting up a likely sequel. Among other things, I wanted to know how many of the creatures were there? Thousands? Tens of thousands? And how were they able to apparently wipe out vast swaths of the population? Maybe these questions will be answered in future sequels.</p><p>I'm going to see it again tonight with my son Matt, who didn't get a chance to see the movie over the weekend. Looking forward to that, as going to the movies has been a tradition I have with Matt. He's moving on campus in August, and I'm glad to have at least one more trip to the movies with him before he moves out. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-64365245712213023582021-05-19T09:15:00.001-07:002021-05-19T09:15:34.561-07:00Some New Artwork and a Short Story Collection<p> I just sent a short story collection I put together off to my first reader/proofreader. I should be putting this up for sale in a week or so. Here's a look at the cover for Strange Ways.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdESNExQv5VRMbiEm0mUwrOph4hzhyphenhyphenezWlxFdSL_Kp2-RWclf5oYFZk65CIKrYPwAnEc1bz_PfBIO78uufGZZBn54iTiN0Cmp-Jnp_k1NrmQxQ6h8hnuAFQApDh2AQXUxIR8N/s2048/Strange+Ways+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1543" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdESNExQv5VRMbiEm0mUwrOph4hzhyphenhyphenezWlxFdSL_Kp2-RWclf5oYFZk65CIKrYPwAnEc1bz_PfBIO78uufGZZBn54iTiN0Cmp-Jnp_k1NrmQxQ6h8hnuAFQApDh2AQXUxIR8N/s320/Strange+Ways+Cover.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>The weather has been beautiful the past few days, with more to come. We opened our pool last Friday, and my wife took the inaugural dip of the season yesterday afternoon. </p><p>I don't watch a ton of movies these days, but I would like to check out the apocalyptic thriller Greenland, as well as Zack Snyder's Army of the Dead. Both look promising. </p><p>I did a few pen and ink drawings recently. I was fairly happy with both of them. I've always liked imagery of crows and ravens, so I decided to draw one. Have a tattoo appointment scheduled in October to get a raven done on my forearm.</p><p>As always, I have prints available of my artwork <a href="https://www.artpal.com/izzoartworks" target="_blank">here.</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix-ePe_-07ec-WUo_bxrrp2pPHaiuFY4PAvIqzeotTZ8bP273My15Mz5_bAaOA3xlOQkhrLFOXFm-K1T61CGN4bUf0bf1YNszNCGDVeyx9TzJeDnWM_b6bfVgjGGUeYv5D_70t/s640/Raven+Pen+and+Ink+5.4.21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="449" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix-ePe_-07ec-WUo_bxrrp2pPHaiuFY4PAvIqzeotTZ8bP273My15Mz5_bAaOA3xlOQkhrLFOXFm-K1T61CGN4bUf0bf1YNszNCGDVeyx9TzJeDnWM_b6bfVgjGGUeYv5D_70t/s320/Raven+Pen+and+Ink+5.4.21.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHcPatdqbB7MXwFAMl5X_odSbaG_9N57NI94H3HVxzyOhA_pTBrVr3pFl_fHv-FdUiHuQ1d2__tgKzOx9NxPnJQg9Y8aQYlwVx9X1YBF767KggzyQeshAtgSwwvrIMfZTvAMgK/s640/Killer+Clown+.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="449" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHcPatdqbB7MXwFAMl5X_odSbaG_9N57NI94H3HVxzyOhA_pTBrVr3pFl_fHv-FdUiHuQ1d2__tgKzOx9NxPnJQg9Y8aQYlwVx9X1YBF767KggzyQeshAtgSwwvrIMfZTvAMgK/s320/Killer+Clown+.JPG" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-81625365972864312122021-05-09T06:08:00.004-07:002021-05-09T06:08:48.116-07:00Preliminary Cover Art for Season of Crows<p> Season of Crows is nearing the 30K word mark. Worked on it a bit this morning. I also got in a quick workout. When Jenn gets up, I'm going to pick her up her favorite smoothie for Mother's Day. Have a seafood dinner planned for her later.</p><p>I thought I'd reveal the preliminary cover for Season of Crows, also. </p><p>Planning on spending the day with Jenn and our boys to celebrate Mother's Day.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HVMfDdSrcaulsc0V0TFcYf5ZiygVjShT6vbhO_Jm2_K8xt_Qq-B7vq1PnppJm7TLbRHrNwPjFVQZRM1oMkWWhz9V1Up2mgVltcdufBHpd4sYaGWOiQfyeBD5Bm_lJ8cUfQ_s/s2048/Season+of+Crows+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1363" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HVMfDdSrcaulsc0V0TFcYf5ZiygVjShT6vbhO_Jm2_K8xt_Qq-B7vq1PnppJm7TLbRHrNwPjFVQZRM1oMkWWhz9V1Up2mgVltcdufBHpd4sYaGWOiQfyeBD5Bm_lJ8cUfQ_s/s320/Season+of+Crows+Cover.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-76495940663176268192021-04-25T06:56:00.001-07:002021-04-25T06:56:57.624-07:00Progress on Season of Crows Continues<p>Season of Crows is currently around 22,000 words. I spent most of this morning's writing session looping back and tying things together. By that I mean making sure details are consistent in terms of backstory, character names, etc. </p><p>I like to loop back and make small revisions rather than spill the whole first draft on the page and fix everything later. I end up with a fairly clean first draft which usually only needs some smoothing out and fixing of typos, etc.</p><p>I'm reading Richard Laymon's One Rainy Night. Hoping to catch Nobody with Bob Odenkirk later. Heard from a few people this was a good one.</p><p>My wife and I are heading out later to grab some lunch on the go. It's dreary today, so might be a good day to read and hang out inside. The weather yesterday was beautiful. Jenn and I got in a walk, and I cut the grass for the first time this season. </p><p> </p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-58314888488310648082021-04-09T09:01:00.000-07:002021-04-09T09:01:07.462-07:00Painting Pennywise and Progress on Season of Crows<p>I'm working on the first draft of Season of Crows and nearing the 20,000-word mark. For some reason, this one was stressing me out at first, figuring out various plot and timelines. Have to remember to relax, have fun, and trust the story. As far as finishing books and stories goes, that approach hasn't steered me wrong yet. I don't outline anymore beyond making a few cursory notes, if necessary. I'm not sure I could write a book based on an outline anymore.</p><p>I like to get the main premise/situation set (in this case, a small town haunted by unusual disappearances), put a few sets of characters together, and let the story roll. Not saying that's necessarily the best way, but it works for me. Every writer is different. </p><p>Still working on teaching myself acrylic paints. Here's a Pennywise painting in progress. Still quite a bit to do on this one, but I'm happy with it so far. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZVqUMVtUbVCWzg2Ly9SmW9lW4snWIyAAvyHFiC9t5hAdQJapfl2DHaRcYPUPL7NhNq3GmTtpCBSa7Z2Hj_weShyphenhyphenqe0r6uTuU7tj48tNMsPg6YK5jDxRRRxgLjXbXe-eRyqyE/s640/26C79559-1703-4CC5-A940-9DB60BD5701D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="512" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZVqUMVtUbVCWzg2Ly9SmW9lW4snWIyAAvyHFiC9t5hAdQJapfl2DHaRcYPUPL7NhNq3GmTtpCBSa7Z2Hj_weShyphenhyphenqe0r6uTuU7tj48tNMsPg6YK5jDxRRRxgLjXbXe-eRyqyE/w293-h367/26C79559-1703-4CC5-A940-9DB60BD5701D.JPG" width="293" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-7868197271956721382021-03-09T04:16:00.001-08:002021-03-09T04:16:55.693-08:00Writing the Foundation and a Reason for Evil Deeds<p>The Foundation, my latest horror novel, is going on sale this week. It's available on Amazon and Kobo, thus far. The Foundation is my 25th book since 2004, and I had a blast writing it.</p><p>I wanted to write a story where the characters were looped into playing a deadly game run by shadowy people. I'd explored this theme somewhat in The Damage Factory, and wanted to revisit it. I figured people would need strong motivation to initially participate in such a game.</p><p>What would be an evil reason to loop people into such a game? I came up with preying on those with medical debt. A character with crushing debt might be tempted to respond to a strange foundation offering money for their bills. Meeting with the foundation would seem a little odd at first, and things would really get nasty in short order. </p><p>The Foundation is a short novel, just under 50,000 words. I find myself writing shorter books these days, as well as reading slimmer novels. I'm comfortable writing longer works (my longest novel was Evil Harvest, at 165,000 words), but these days, I'm inclined to stick to shorter novels. Looking back at some of my longer stuff, I'd probably cut a great deal of words. Reading shorter novels also fits a little better into my schedule, as I don't have as much time to read as I used to.</p><p>So here's the cover blurb for The Foundation. It's a fast-moving, nasty little novel that I hope horror readers will enjoy.</p><p><br /></p><p><i>Dylan O'Connor's life is about to be turned upside down. Saddled with medical debt from his daughter's cancer treatments, he receives a letter from a mysterious Foundation offering financial assistance. All he has to do is complete some seemingly routine tasks and the Foundation will help with his bills. Dylan soon finds out the required tasks are dangerous and illegal. The Foundation begins playing a twisted game with him. A game that could cost him and his family their lives.</i></p><p><i>The only way out for Dylan is to play the game to its gruesome end.</i></p><p><i>A thrilling novel of dark suspense from the author of Nightshade and The Lacerated Sky.</i></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QpoF76k-KBAvXIHnIbvFUDplStBmuMqyzDV6IoOs-6aTFfVwHH2PGIm-y1GRjrxj2ZCwsqvpDWcRdb8N39jT-P645p8OPqfJAa3fIm2UDlqnzOesuw-0m9oZ9MC-oGF5pg_J/s2048/Foundation+Cover+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1325" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QpoF76k-KBAvXIHnIbvFUDplStBmuMqyzDV6IoOs-6aTFfVwHH2PGIm-y1GRjrxj2ZCwsqvpDWcRdb8N39jT-P645p8OPqfJAa3fIm2UDlqnzOesuw-0m9oZ9MC-oGF5pg_J/s320/Foundation+Cover+2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-29754513033275915052021-02-10T05:33:00.003-08:002021-02-10T05:36:40.916-08:00What Are You Willing to Give Up for Writing?<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmymn7YaO8Q_tgwgYbbBxwsqIORZJI9L_ofCpizRMeln2Z7xyX4AnQghjczJo5mTsbqRGChF9znYwLhklckQQWrJRmIxkRKk-X2Tt99srE-Uq1oqMSWDSCLnJkFSaKUZ8LbLGl/s1280/pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4132326+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmymn7YaO8Q_tgwgYbbBxwsqIORZJI9L_ofCpizRMeln2Z7xyX4AnQghjczJo5mTsbqRGChF9znYwLhklckQQWrJRmIxkRKk-X2Tt99srE-Uq1oqMSWDSCLnJkFSaKUZ8LbLGl/s320/pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4132326+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I finished the draft of my 25th book yesterday. I've been writing since I was a teenager, and writing professionally since 2004. While writing professionally, I've held a full-time job and helped raise a family. The one thing that's helped me produce 25 books is consistency.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In order to be consistent and prolific, this requires giving things up. People often tell me they'd write if they had time. I usually smile and listen to them, thinking to myself that they probably do have time. If you want to write, you can carve out some small of time amount during your day. The question is, what are you willing to give up?</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">If you'd like to write, but can't find time, I've listed some suggestions below. Some of them involve giving things up, while others are just general ideas.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Cut back or eliminate binge watching shows</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Eliminate/cut back on a hobby in order to write more</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Used timed writing sessions to focus. Set a timer and go. No stopping. No checking social media. You'll be surprised how many words you can get using this method.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Put away your smart phone for an hour and write.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Get up earlier</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Stay up later</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Give up that happy hour (probably not occurring as much with the pandemic)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Write on your lunch break</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Write in waiting rooms</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">If you use public transportation, write on the bus/subway/train.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Use writing sprints (15 to 30 min) during the day. Waiting for that load of laundry to finish? Hammer out some words. It all adds up after a while. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Treat writing like it's a job. Don't be afraid to say, "I'm sorry, but I'm writing right now, can it wait?" </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Make appointments to write during the day (20 min before work, 30 min before bed, etc) and put them on a calendar/planner/planning app. Look at your schedule and find pockets of time when you could be writing.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I like to refer to one of Brian Keene's sayings: "Ass in chair, fingers on keyboard." Carve out that time. Set your ass in the chair. And get writing. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Thank you, as always, for reading.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You can follow me on social media here:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Twitter: @Aizzo</div><div style="text-align: left;">Facebook: Anthony Izzo (author)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Instagram: AIzzo73</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-24587163123337997042021-02-07T06:07:00.002-08:002021-02-07T06:07:39.616-08:00Enter The Night Gets a New Cover<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"> I've been playing around with book covers, refreshing some of my older ones. I've been wanting to try my hand at creating some art for one of my books, so I settled on Enter The Night. I did the gas mask with Micron pen and ink/brush. I used an old toothbrush to splatter some red ink, and dirtied the rest up with photo editing. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">If you read the novel, you'll see how the gas mask ties in. You can get Enter The Night on all e-book platforms. I'll be uploading the new cover soon. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Click <a href="https://books2read.com/u/mBMjYM" target="_blank">here</a> to purchase Enter The Night.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><i>They came to the mountain to hunt ghosts. They ended up as prey. The Iron Mountain Asylum once housed the criminally insane. The worst of the worst. Four men escaped the asylum and were never caught. The legends grew. Some said they lived on the mountain, killing anyone who crossed their path.The contestants on a reality show called Enter the Night are about to find out if the legends are real. Six people. Non-stop filming. A week exploring the abandoned asylum and a military base near the mountain. The contestants will discover that there are things far more frightening on the mountain than ghosts.</i></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Enter The Night has a lot of bloody, slasher horror. What are some of your favorite slasher/psycho killer novels?</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiasNYS16XDGH0Y_3DWlfktL5odKV1RsnuSbvD_t-2Z-ecyIgD0vy2hqAiTIU_kx6-_yRk_-AQ718QGS-WLUAKrzMCufk8gHBxzXXcLtIFipwfkSpov6eGAPRsWlWCW-uHcg9P9/s2048/Enter+The+Night+Cover+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1325" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiasNYS16XDGH0Y_3DWlfktL5odKV1RsnuSbvD_t-2Z-ecyIgD0vy2hqAiTIU_kx6-_yRk_-AQ718QGS-WLUAKrzMCufk8gHBxzXXcLtIFipwfkSpov6eGAPRsWlWCW-uHcg9P9/s320/Enter+The+Night+Cover+3.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-82301649162657086412021-01-26T17:54:00.002-08:002021-01-26T17:54:49.233-08:00New Cover Art For a Horror Western<p> I like to refresh cover art every so often. I'll be doing this with some of my titles this year. I'm updating the cover art for my gunslingers vs. monsters novella, Vanished. </p><p>Here's the latest cover. You can buy Vanished <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Vanished-Anthony-Izzo/dp/1393897460/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=vanished+anthony+izzo&qid=1611711627&sr=8-1" target="_blank">here.</a> </p><p>And a synopsis:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; margin: 0px 0px 14px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sheriff Will Barnaby is summoned when a member of the missing Hanson party stumbles into the mining town of Wilton, Colorado. Tommy Hanson is dazed and muttering about terrors in the valley near Wilton. The Hanson family disappeared six months prior while setting out in wagons for a new life. Will realizes he'll have to round up a posse and investigate the Hanson boy's story. With the help of his deputy and two hired guns, Will sets out to discover what lurks out in the valley near Wilton.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; margin: -4px 0px 14px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">He will find death and terror waiting for him outside Wilton. And an investigation into missing persons turns into a fight for survival.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; margin: -4px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">An action-filled novella from the author of Murderland and the Last Ride. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; margin: -4px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; margin: -4px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; margin: -4px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqczAUai0Halw4M1PWjhiV6fp-jxywUR2yNJmtU82nLwTtGjoFnpf2x9MIGQzv_BsOLsTMTcgQqiRCAaRq42UCtyTIdwtTQEQM_qc_4Os0gscPnafLkccFIYOLtq1ojtkJUfOG/s2048/Vanished+Cover+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1325" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqczAUai0Halw4M1PWjhiV6fp-jxywUR2yNJmtU82nLwTtGjoFnpf2x9MIGQzv_BsOLsTMTcgQqiRCAaRq42UCtyTIdwtTQEQM_qc_4Os0gscPnafLkccFIYOLtq1ojtkJUfOG/s320/Vanished+Cover+2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-27992514018692264622021-01-18T09:18:00.001-08:002021-01-18T09:30:00.483-08:00When Social Media Is Bad For Writers<p>Social media can be a great thing for writers. It allows us to touch base with fellow writers, bloggers, reviewers, and publishers. Writing can be a solitary, lonely endeavor, and social media lets us connect, especially during this time of social distancing. </p><p>Recently, I learned of two anthologies looking for submissions. I promptly wrote some stories and sent them off. Both calls for submission were on Twitter. Had I not been on Twitter, I would've missed the opportunities. As much as social media creates opportunities, at times it can be a detractor. For myself, I find social media (Twitter, in particular) can bring me down at times. Sometimes, when the following start to happen, I feel the need to unplug from social media for a bit:</p><p>1. The news is making me anxious and depressed.</p><p>2. I find myself repeatedly doomscrolling instead of spending time reading books.</p><p>3. I'm spending more time on social media than writing new books and stories.</p><p>4. I'm constantly comparing myself to other writers, wondering if/when I'll have the same success.</p><p>One of my goals in 2021 is to read more (I've already read four books) and focus on writing, art, and music, rather than repeatedly refreshing my feeds and scrolling. Social media can be amazing for keeping up on the writing business, but none of us should be afraid to take a break.</p><p>And I still believe the most important part of writing is writing. The best marketing you can do is to write the next book or story. </p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-64425665596469351642021-01-13T04:12:00.001-08:002021-01-13T04:12:15.282-08:00Ramping Up the Writing<p>I didn't write much between New Year's Eve and January 6th. Didn't write at all in the few days following the attempted coup. The news and the state of the country have been pretty much a horror show. I've been ramping up the writing the past few days. I guess, as a writer, you need to go to work, the same as any other profession. Writing also provides a distraction from things.</p><p>I'm working on the last third of The Foundation. Not sure which book will come after The Foundation. I'm debating writing a sequel to <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Island-Novella-Anthony-Izzo/dp/1393239897/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+island+anthony+izzo&qid=1610539696&sr=8-1" target="_blank">The Island,</a> which would tie into the Nightshade World. I'm also considering writing in some series/shared world series. </p><p>I finished up this pen and ink horror piece yesterday. You can buy prints <a href="https://www.artpal.com/izzoartworks">here.</a> </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjFC0iRPkcyA66QB1_xU1HPsiPfNW1vR4SHiZavGZ0c7824S3R0ff3jWGd1r_OMPmgv14gGyzzU-s_QN0B-0yTw_f9cgOtzpt9aIQUK2Cejxe3jw5NX4dd9trW0sVQdBYHWIK/s2048/Gathering+of+Demons+1.13.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1437" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjFC0iRPkcyA66QB1_xU1HPsiPfNW1vR4SHiZavGZ0c7824S3R0ff3jWGd1r_OMPmgv14gGyzzU-s_QN0B-0yTw_f9cgOtzpt9aIQUK2Cejxe3jw5NX4dd9trW0sVQdBYHWIK/s320/Gathering+of+Demons+1.13.21.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-11961411663509703172020-12-31T13:02:00.002-08:002020-12-31T13:02:49.614-08:00Getting Ready for New Years<p> Started the day with working on a short story for submission to an anthology. It stands at around 1,800 words. I believe the minimum is 2,500 words, so I should be finishing it up soon. </p><p> Also continuing work on The Foundation, which stands at about 50 percent complete. </p><p>For New Years Eve, it'll just be the five people in our house. This is how we normally spend New Years, even in a non-Covid world. I'm at the point in my life where going out to a bar or partying isn't desirable, anyway. We'll have snacks and hang out. Might have an extra beer or two for the holiday.</p><p>I didn't set any New Years' Resolutions. Instead, I'm going to continue to work on the personal goals I've set for myself. I continue to refine these as I go:</p><p><br /></p><p>Developing my writing Business Plan, with a focus on increasing inventory (titles available). I'm shooting for six new titles next year (between novels and novellas).</p><p>Submitting more short stories to pro markets, and indie publishing others.</p><p>Continuing on a quest to work out 4-5 times a week. </p><p>Spending less time on social media, and reading more books. My reading has fallen way off over the past year, and I find myself mindlessly scrolling through social media at times. I used to do the Goodreads' challenge, but found that was just bumming me out and sucking the joy out of reading. </p><p>Making time for some art and guitar playing in the coming year, even if it's only 15-20 minutes a day. </p><p><br /></p><p>That's it for me. I hope you all have a good New Year, and that 2021 brings good things. </p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-63623223271751009672020-12-28T09:28:00.001-08:002020-12-28T09:28:51.917-08:00Post Christmas<p> I'm back to work this week after having last week off. Continuing to work on The Foundation. </p><p>One of my areas of focus is to increase the number of titles I have out in 2021. Ideally, I'd like to do six (some combination of novels and novellas), not counting short stories. I believe that's doable with an average word count of 1,000 per day. </p><p>I got some art supplies and graphic novels for Christmas. Also got some gift cards, which I'll spend on books. My son Matt also got me a cool Mandalorian beer mug. My lovely wife also made stellar dinners and desserts for the family on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-10856600775527570462020-12-23T07:46:00.002-08:002020-12-23T07:46:22.204-08:00A Good Writing Day<p>I have the week off from my day job, so I'm trying to get more writing and writing-related tasks done. I got 1,200 words this morning on The Foundation. I crossed the 25,000-word mark, which isn't quite halfway done. I expect this one to weigh in around 60,000 words when finished.</p><p>I started watching Blood Quantum on Shudder and got about an hour in. Interesting zombie flick. I'll try and watch the rest of it this evening.</p><p>I have to head out to get some stocking stuffers. I'm going to go to our local CVS, which isn't typically busy. Going to mask up, get in, and get out. I'll probably wrap some presents later in preparation for the big day. </p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-13105939462354948382020-12-19T06:28:00.000-08:002020-12-19T06:28:11.870-08:00Short Story Completed<p> I finished up a short story this morning for submission to an anthology this morning. Our dogs were up at 5:15 a.m. More specifically, our fourteen-year-old dog decided she no longer wanted to be in the crate. That caused a chain reaction, and our two puppies were up shortly after.</p><p>I decided to take advantage of being up early with a relatively quiet house. Got the aforementioned short story finished and got some more words on the novel-in-progress.</p><p>Last night's Mandalorian finale was excellent. I won't spoil it, but my Star Wars fanboy heart skipped a beat. The bounced back nicely from the previous week's episode, which I thought was weak. Bill Burr doesn't really fit in to the Star Wars universe, and I found his character grating. </p><p>We're going to bake some Christmas cookies today and put up our tree tomorrow. Trying to make things feel a little more like Christmas and stagger to the end of this crazy year. </p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-8367632775718554222020-12-07T17:48:00.002-08:002020-12-07T17:48:39.552-08:00A Writing Update<p> I just crossed the 20K word mark on the latest novel, entitled <i>The Foundation</i>. I have a cover design worked up. I'm looking to release this sometime early in 2021, possibly February. </p><p><i>The Foundation</i> is a dark thriller with no supernatural elements. However, that doesn't mean it's lacking in the horror department. This one's got some nasty scenes. </p><p>I have two short story ideas I'm getting ready to write. Part of my business plan for 2021 is to write more short stories with the intention of indie publishing or submitting to markets. I'm also going to throw some novellas into the mix, as well.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-23280630103248397662020-11-27T19:15:00.000-08:002020-11-27T19:15:04.656-08:00Some New Horror-Themed Artwork<p>I was joking with my wife that I created some new, cheerful artwork just for the holidays. You can have a look at my two latest creations below. I think they're quite festive. Okay, maybe not. But I'm not about to start drawing reindeer and mistletoe.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-73bxLY5cGEFSLQln8p8R8qHNXHi7cR5FcM7vMS2DIEDbuQnazA41ERYyPVWMaVN4-TTU5fneqREwyxwP1kLm3NBJxxXIgGjbXius71oE7V5wUZGNlujkc-gN79h62-wfFOlx/s2048/Horror+Alley+11.27.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1437" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-73bxLY5cGEFSLQln8p8R8qHNXHi7cR5FcM7vMS2DIEDbuQnazA41ERYyPVWMaVN4-TTU5fneqREwyxwP1kLm3NBJxxXIgGjbXius71oE7V5wUZGNlujkc-gN79h62-wfFOlx/s320/Horror+Alley+11.27.20.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPP1WawQoehG1c7NRvaZrh1Y5IiWmLy8tNessJ8H8Le29e-JUkP0Abde9ZQaY93mqYbuaNHa_8tahVl23gz1asi2uPsiy813RdjX45tB4ug4bt6y8QWDVukCTP5Nb60orwmwVs/s2048/Demon+Multi+Media+11.27.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1437" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPP1WawQoehG1c7NRvaZrh1Y5IiWmLy8tNessJ8H8Le29e-JUkP0Abde9ZQaY93mqYbuaNHa_8tahVl23gz1asi2uPsiy813RdjX45tB4ug4bt6y8QWDVukCTP5Nb60orwmwVs/s320/Demon+Multi+Media+11.27.20.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-19471928659369389512020-11-26T06:19:00.001-08:002020-11-26T06:21:15.842-08:00On Not Letting People Crap on Your Dreams<p>Last night, on Twitter, I saw a post where a writer was dismayed about a friend's opinion on some stories the writer had sent the friend. The friend basically told the writer that the stories were crap and that the writer should give up on writing. </p><p>I'll be frank. The friend's comments pissed me off. I responded to the tweet, encouraging the writer to keep at it (as did many others in the writing community). </p><p>If you've shared the dream of becoming a writer with others, I'd bet bet more than a few bucks you've heard at least one of the following:</p><p><i>There's no money in it.</i></p><p><i>When are you going to get serious about things?</i></p><p><i>Are you still writing that stuff? (This is usually directed at genre writers)</i></p><p><i>Very few people make it as writers.</i></p><p><i>You need to focus on something different.</i></p><p><i>You can't write until you have more life experience (I heard this one as a young writer).</i></p><p><i>You need to pick a more stable career.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Often, these comments come from "well-meaning" friends and family who "are just being real." In reality, these comments often cut, chipping away at a writer's confidence and making them question themselves.</p><p>I firmly believe you should surround yourself with people who are supportive and encouraging of your goals. This doesn't mean having people around to pump up your ego or shower you with nothing but effusive praise. Rather, people who will cheer you on and celebrate your achievements. People who will recognize that a dream or goal is important to you. </p><p>Not people who will take a dump on your dreams. </p><p>I would have simple advice for dealing anyone who admonishes or belittles your dreams. If someone makes negative comments about your writing goals, tell them how important it is to you. If they persist, I suggest evaluating if you want to have a relationship with that person. Or at the very least, if you want to share your aspirations with them. A well placed "fuck off" can work wonders, as well. Use at your own discretion.</p><p>You don't need anyone's permission to write. It's your life. Your dreams. Not theirs. </p><p>Keep writing. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-69536499096592641472020-11-23T13:23:00.001-08:002020-11-23T13:23:29.033-08:00The World Needs Stories<p>I've been struggling with how much to mention writing or promote books this year. With the pandemic still raging and the country in political turmoil, talking about a new book release can seem trivial. Or worse, insensitive.</p><p>However, this year, since March, I've purchased a ton of books. Reading and stories have been a welcome distraction to world events. And honestly, I'm happy to learn when my favorite writers are releasing new books. </p><p>I think we need more stories. New books. New movies. New music. These things help us cope with the horrors of the world. So maybe, as writers (and creatives), we shouldn't hold back sharing our work, or that bit of good news about sales or new releases on the horizon. Share your work proudly, and that of your favorite artists or writers. That ideal reader might be out there waiting for your book. </p><p> </p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-83092440013613552822020-11-11T04:25:00.001-08:002020-11-11T04:25:19.546-08:00Writing Update and Some Artwork<p> I crossed the 10K word mark on my latest project, a dark thriller entitled The Foundation. It's moving along nicely. I'm hoping to have this ready for a January, 2021 release.</p><p><br /></p><p>Here's my latest sketch, a horror-themed drawing of someone you wouldn't want to meet in the woods. Prints available at Artpal.com. My store is Izzoartworks. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVa7Ou9Uf0rjUXLgrggDGozL-irKHotIJizAuKCNFODD-DDjPf8xJWnaOTfVt9_vlcIRKHgQT0J8H5gOHMI10clvDNeaYNSyyECUFR3cPrMxd88XGv-aDsEEFpx3soXiWPbxSg/s640/Hag+in+the+Woods.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="449" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVa7Ou9Uf0rjUXLgrggDGozL-irKHotIJizAuKCNFODD-DDjPf8xJWnaOTfVt9_vlcIRKHgQT0J8H5gOHMI10clvDNeaYNSyyECUFR3cPrMxd88XGv-aDsEEFpx3soXiWPbxSg/s320/Hag+in+the+Woods.JPG" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-81837224175118050732020-11-06T09:14:00.002-08:002020-11-06T09:14:33.962-08:00A Tour With Monsters - Excerpt from The Island<p>For today's post, I thought I'd put up an excerpt from my novella, The Island. The Island loosely ties into Nightshade, my most recent werewolf novel. In the excerpt below, Rick and his wife Julie get a glimpse of some of the creatures that inhabit the island. You can get The Island <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1393239897?tag=" target="_blank">Here</a> (e-book and paperback). Also available on other e-book platforms.</p><p><br /></p><p>I<i>t's the horror fan's ultimate dream. A tour of an island where legendary monsters are real. Escorted by armed guards, lifelong friends Rick and Nate travel to the island as a birthday surprise for Rick. They soon find out that the island's inhabitants are hungry, and the tour turns into a fight for survival. </i></p><p><i>A an action-packed horror novella loaded with monsters and gore from the author of The Dead Land Trilogy.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Back in the room, Rick jumped a little as the air raid siren Sutherland had mentioned began its mournful howl. It reminded Rick of old war movies. And Sutherland hadn’t been kidding. It was definitely an old-time air raid siren. </p><p>Rick was standing at the window overlooking the high concrete wall and the lush view beyond. Julie came up beside him, gripped his hand. </p><p>“What are you thinking about?” she asked. </p><p>“Wondering what Nate’s gotten us into,” he said. </p><p>“It’s not dull, that’s for sure. I feel bad for him sometimes.” </p><p>Rick said, “Why’s that?” </p><p>“Because Eve’s got a stick in her twat half the time about something or other.” </p><p>Rick laughed. The wine had definitely loosened her tongue. “Sounds like that’s all that’s been in her twat lately, according to her.” </p><p>She laughed. It was a big laugh with no hint of self-consciousness. He’d always loved her laugh. Didn’t matter where they were. She’d break out a belly laugh anywhere, fuck who was listening to them. He turned, slipped his arms around her waist. She slipped hers around the back of his neck, stroked his hair. </p><p>He kissed her hard and she pressed against him, backed him up against the window. </p><p>As he kissed her harder, she pulled away and gasped. </p><p>“Jesus Christ!” she said. </p><p>“What?” </p><p>“Something huge just swooped across the sky.” </p><p>She broke away from him and looked out the window. </p><p>He turned and looked, palm on the glass. He tapped it. “This is some thick glass.” </p><p>It was a few inches thick, perhaps designed to stop a bullet. Or something else. “Okay, so you saw a big bird. There could be big birds up here. Eagles, I suppose.” </p><p>“It wasn’t just a bird, Rick.” </p><p>The air raid siren was still going in the background. </p><p>On the wall outside, he saw two men come running, one with a high-powered rifle, and the other with what looked like a pair of night-vision goggles. The man with the goggles pointed to the sky. </p><p>He saw what Eve was talking about. Something roughly the size and shape of a man swooped across the sky. But that was impossible, wasn’t it? It had leathery wings and a misshapen skull. It rose high in the air and then dove down, heading for the men on the wall. </p><p>The crack of the gun startled them both. They flinched. </p><p>The flying creature turned away, spun out of control, and dipped beneath the wall. He watched the man with the rifle lean over and fire two more shots. He then turned and signaled to someone out of sight. </p><p>“What the fuck was that?” Rick asked. </p><p>“I don’t know. But let’s get away from the window, huh?” Julie said. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2r7LpaRj_usc0Zj1e-Au6ZqixzAt6usTf6OReTesBsDwI8gGXJ79ceX3A5qxTj7rZtfOo_MASBSr7TPTPTXuZd2Tg1fnbXR_8OD2_a_B_BJ4WOBBlifKEHHJqZH6Pf44EGWq/s2048/Island+Book+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1366" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2r7LpaRj_usc0Zj1e-Au6ZqixzAt6usTf6OReTesBsDwI8gGXJ79ceX3A5qxTj7rZtfOo_MASBSr7TPTPTXuZd2Tg1fnbXR_8OD2_a_B_BJ4WOBBlifKEHHJqZH6Pf44EGWq/s320/Island+Book+Cover.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p> </p><p> </p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-37772806345226440292020-11-02T09:40:00.000-08:002020-11-02T09:40:17.753-08:00Jimi Hendrix and the Art of Doing Things Scared<p>I was perusing You Tube the other day and came across a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P701paKEMXs" target="_blank">video</a> of Jimi Hendrix playing an acoustic version of "Hear My Train A Comin'." What struck me was that around the 50 second mark, Hendrix stops playing and asks if he can start over. He also tells the camera operator that he was scared to death. </p><p>To see Hendrix in interviews, he came off as a shy, introspective person. But when he strapped on a guitar, he breathed fire on stage. When he picked up the Strat, the quiet, thoughtful guy disappeared, and the guitar god took over.</p><p>I think there's something to be learned from the video. When the guy who's generally regarded as one of the best, most innovative guitar players in history is nervous about performing, there's hope for the rest of us mortals.</p><p>Fear often stops creatives in their tracks. Stops people from indie publishing work, submitting to a short story market, sharing their guitar playing in public, or displaying art. </p><p>I think we're all nervous about sending our creative efforts out into the world. You have to put the fear aside and do it anyway. Put the fear away and send your stuff out into the world. Become that fire-breathing monster. And remember that someone as great as Jimi was just as nervous as the rest of us. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-63185092833506782452020-11-01T18:53:00.003-08:002020-11-01T18:53:36.838-08:00Anthony Izzo Interviewed in Local Paper<p> I was interviewed a few weeks back for our local paper. If you'd like, you can read the interview <a href="https://www.eastaurorany.com/articles/author-continues-finding-new-ways-to-thrill-readers/" target="_blank">here</a>. I also donated some of my books as prizes for the paper's pumpkin carving contest. One note, "A Rough Night at the Redeye Mine" is actually a short story I wrote, not a novel or novella. The paper did a nice job, and I made the front page. I appreciate The Advertiser thinking of me for a piece. Nice shot of the cover for "The Lacerated Sky" as well.</p><p>I'm trying to get in at least fifteen minutes of drawing per day, and hoping to play guitar for 15 minutes a day, as well. In the coming year, I want to build up my writing business, and this will be my main focus. But I also think it's good to have varied interests, and want to make a little time each day for hobbies, as well.</p><p>Here's a Venom ink and marker drawing I did yesterday. Just because he's always a fun character to sketch. Prints are available at <a href="https://www.artpal.com/izzoartworks" target="_blank">Artpal</a>. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFFsrm7jfJceMJ4Nc9ijglMeVcMHl1QCGrkSVnnhO81rSWHMDiSOCyBtzPuZkZX9F_j_FQMrkPLU9MscFkAVtQ6tm92jI3DRiX9pclh-9ZC3H2kyEzprb4gD70jDWqvBTE36v/s2048/Venom+10.31.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1437" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFFsrm7jfJceMJ4Nc9ijglMeVcMHl1QCGrkSVnnhO81rSWHMDiSOCyBtzPuZkZX9F_j_FQMrkPLU9MscFkAVtQ6tm92jI3DRiX9pclh-9ZC3H2kyEzprb4gD70jDWqvBTE36v/s320/Venom+10.31.20.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-45137204862826073232020-10-27T20:06:00.001-07:002020-10-27T20:06:13.421-07:00A Fire Demon Painting - Some Artwork<p>I purchased a new set of Liquitex acrylic paints this weekend. Got some work done on the new novel, then painted this after dinner. If you like it, you can buy a print at <a href="https://www.artpal.com/izzoartworks">Artpal.com</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYLDs2BSdrekMdxBHSC-zbycG1ipQe43g7BzKFnaay-FaZyuenNy7nrENsNEfu-Zzu2r8LUcQ61ro4mYMYy9ySpoKy1D9DaUdDd8sALHbA0fO5lhRBXI7Okq57eMitVBkM8cD/s2048/Demon+Painting+10.27.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1637" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYLDs2BSdrekMdxBHSC-zbycG1ipQe43g7BzKFnaay-FaZyuenNy7nrENsNEfu-Zzu2r8LUcQ61ro4mYMYy9ySpoKy1D9DaUdDd8sALHbA0fO5lhRBXI7Okq57eMitVBkM8cD/s320/Demon+Painting+10.27.20.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20547796.post-86567785591469344462020-10-25T15:34:00.002-07:002020-10-25T15:34:20.837-07:00Some Recent Horror Art<p> Not many updates to post tonight, but thought I'd share a few of my recent works. The first is a "zombified" Wolverine, and the second is an acrylic painting of the masked man himself. I have prints for sale up at <a href="https://www.artpal.com/izzoartworks" target="_blank">Artpal.com</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v9jqt2I_6tFX5iuhFVwYwnEtEcPiCQGNto6jWgIg2E4M1Je8Y0ik6UCVddI0GYBAcsUpco8A7k0DvB-gGDqn9sXtvmz9QBZc7fBD2NXgsAO-IGg8XzAaf8YGF8fRrUT6MliW/s2048/Wolverine+10.25.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1437" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v9jqt2I_6tFX5iuhFVwYwnEtEcPiCQGNto6jWgIg2E4M1Je8Y0ik6UCVddI0GYBAcsUpco8A7k0DvB-gGDqn9sXtvmz9QBZc7fBD2NXgsAO-IGg8XzAaf8YGF8fRrUT6MliW/s320/Wolverine+10.25.20.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyldvOzk4UdCZUk1rNKl5QhcfFigx9fbO96enZ7ICXpTk4vrLzJi1uQGjKjrp3ArL9OxPod4LW5Wyo7139Wvjr4hG3p_D7XUMsf5e4aW4oEJjwkRgkhyuxP4dE75X9KLBAYfD/s2048/Jason+Voorhees+Acrylic+10.25.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1662" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyldvOzk4UdCZUk1rNKl5QhcfFigx9fbO96enZ7ICXpTk4vrLzJi1uQGjKjrp3ArL9OxPod4LW5Wyo7139Wvjr4hG3p_D7XUMsf5e4aW4oEJjwkRgkhyuxP4dE75X9KLBAYfD/s320/Jason+Voorhees+Acrylic+10.25.20.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anthony Izzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16088000414243133915noreply@blogger.com0