Autumnal Life, a Perfect Doggo, Thanks, and Other Miscellany

Let’s see if I remember how to write a newsletter, eh? I haven’t written an update since September partly because I was busy preparing for Game Hole Con and because I fell into an end-of-season funk. Stress hit me, because I wanted to launch Tarot for Storytellers before Halloween and finish my science fiction novella—which I did—while prepping for family-and-friends related travel on top of errands while gestures the world burns.

Yesterday, we did get a dash of hope, and quite honestly there are two messages I hope people take from that. One, you are not alone. And two? Go local if and when you can. It matters.

I’ve had the fortune to speak with a lot of wonderful people over the past month, while a guest at Game Hole Con and so many other wonderful places. I’ve had the fortune to read a lot of updates to stay on top of what’s happening, too. I just want to say “ Thank you for standing up and reporting what’s happening. Thank you.” Thank you for helping me get out of my head and reinforce I’m not alone. And, thank you for supporting my career as I continue to move forward into the unknown. May you be safe, warm, well-fed, and loved.

Career-wise? I’m on sub for two projects! I’m very excited and am crossing my fingers that they’ll pan out. I finished updating my whiteboard, and I’ve got a wonderful to-do list for a bunch of spec projects. Gaming-wise, thanks to feedback at Game Hole Con I am planning a crowdfunding campaign for a full RPG inspired by Pinching Tarts. We started looking into costs, and the hardcover, linen-bound, full-color book I want, for 250 copies, is around $10,000. I have a plan to move forward, and will keep you posted. I’m also finishing up my adventure for The Witcher TTRPG, and got some leads for other projects. If you hear of anything, though, I’d appreciate it if you reached out!

Editing to add: I just wanted to say "thanks" to everyone who supported all of us who worked on The Dagon Collection. We did not win the World Fantasy Award, but it was a huge honor to be nominated in the first place. Thank you. And, congrats to ALL the winners! You can find the World Fantasy 2025 Winners at Reactor Mag.

On to good news! I recently spent some time in the woods for Halloween with dear friends. I didn’t realize how much I needed those precious days away, until we sat around by the fire. I was very lucky to have s’mores, knit, burn letters and ethically-sourced sage, and swap stories with friends. On that day, I had the absolute best experience I’ve ever had with a dog before—and became an auntie!

Meet Sir Jacks! Who rode all the way from Oklahoma in a heart-shaped box to the Midwest. I like to think of him as the Jack of Hearts because he’s excelled at stealing mine in the best way possible.

Here’s another photo of this excellent and admirable doggo. You need another cavity, don’t you?

Okay one more… What can I say, I am a proud auntie! HE IS A PERFECT DOGGO!

Well, that’s all from me right now. I am back in my blanket fort, packed my calendar with holiday goodness, and have a To Do list that’s bigger than my last one. Right now, it’s true…. My To Do list is my security blanket. 😀 

Though I’m keeping busy—intentionally, mind you—don’t be afraid to drop me a line and tell me what you’re up to. Next time, I want to share some fun links for you to check out, too.

Be well!

Monica