New Western on the Horizon

It's been just about a year since I last blogged. A stretch, I know. During this time, however, I've mostly been in the Chiricahua Mountains in S.E. Arizona. Besides dodging illegal immigrants slipping through my campsite, I've been exploring the area in depth, as this is the setting of my newest novel, Canyon of Death.

Canyon of Death will be published by Moonlight Mesa Associates, and should be in print this summer. The book will be reviewed by Western Fiction Review and MidWest Book Review for sure. My publisher told me that both of these sources have asked to review my books, so I'm pretty honored by that.

Anyway, back to the Chiricahuas. I never thought it would be necessary that I'd have to travel in my own country carrying a weapon for protection. As a result of the bloodshed and shooting, I often did not camp off by myself like usual, but instead camped in closer vicinity to other people. This was not just for my personal safety, but I wanted to be able to come back and find my pick-up, horse trailer, and extra horse still there in camp.

I probably saw more border patrol agents than actual smugglers and immigrants, but I saw plenty of both.

Canyon of Death is the third book in the Jake Silver trilogy. (The other two titles are Saving Tom Black and Apache.) It won't be the last Jake Silver book, however. I've recently committed to three more books for Moonlight Mesa. Probably one a year if I can discipline myself. We have no firm agreement, however, that the books must all deal with Jake Silver. They just must all be Westerns. That sounds like a win-win agreement to me!!

I've also done a lot of book events this past year. I try to show up wherever the publisher travels and I sign books at the events. I'll be at Mule Days in Bishop, CA., most of the week since no other authors are able to make it. I intend on watching the mule show, too, since I now own a mule! My publisher is partly responsible for this. She said I couldn't use a mule in the book if I didn't know diddly squat about them. (She's particular about these things.)My mule's name is Wild Bill. Named him after the mule in my new book.

Besides a book a year, I'm now going to try to write a blog a month. I know, that's a real stretch for me. I'm not much into this social media stuff, but I'm going to give it a shot. My goal is, let's see, I need to make it something reasonable, how about 15 minutes a day. I think I can manage that!

Next time I write I should have a better idea about the next book. Meanwhile, look for Canyon of Death this summer. The publisher is going to be offering a special on the three books.

Deadly Encounters

THESE FOLKS ARE NOT APACHES...

Never would I have believed that I'd be defending my life in my own country against invaders. But it's been happening.

I've been in the Chiricahua Mountains quite a bit this last spring getting a feel for the area so that I know what I'm talking about when I write the upcoming chapters in my third, and final(?),Jake Silver Adventure, Canyon of Death. The book could not be more aptly named, that's certain. A few times I've wondered if my own death might not transpire here.

Twice I've come back to my campsite to find it ransacked and mostly destroyed. Food and water are always missing. Clothes, too, even though I'm a big guy and I think the raiders probably aren't. My truck, an older one, has been broken into but not stolen, although I do have a busted out window. Partly this is because I have a unit on the old thing that requires a special plug to get the engine started. If someone tries to mess with it, or hot wire it, the whole thing automatically shuts down. Fortunately, I had a hunch and have been carrying all my proof of insurance, vehicle registration, etc. in my saddle bags. My horse trailer's even been searched. Nothing in there but some extra rope, tack, and a camp chair. No one seems too interested in that stuff.

I've left the area for now, mainly because the other night I heard a running gun battle that sounded pretty close by that lasted a good hour. I'm outta here for a few weeks. I may stop again on my return from Ruidoso, and I'll certainly return in October for my signing at the Rex Allen Days, but in the meanwhile, it's getting damned ridiculous down here.

I've been armed the entire time and have mostly seen what looks like youngsters hurrying along. I'm not interested in shooting anyone unless they shoot first. These travelers looked like kids afoot running away from home. I hear what sounds like jeeps and trucks occasionally rumbling over the dusty roads at night. I never see headlights, so I can only assume they are people who shouldn't be there.

I've seen a few border patrol vehicles - not a lot though compared to the other traffic. Fortunately, these border patrol guys are better armed than I am, but I suspect they are greatly outnumbered by the invaders.

It's been difficult working on the book down here and I suddenly realized the other day it's because I'm constantly stressed about the possibility of deadly violence occuring at just about any moment.

Meanwhile, I'm back to civilization and pestering my publisher here at Moonlight Mesa Associates. She's threatening to take out a life insurance policy on me if I head back down that way.

The bottom line is, the border has got to be controlled, pure and simple. There are deadly incursions onto American soil by people coming from Mexico. There are gun battles taking place between drug cartels on Arizona soil. I was ambivalent about the SB 1070. I no longer am. This is my country, my state. They need to keep the hell out of it or suffer the consequences.

I'm sure this area now is as lawless as it was back in the day that I'm trying to write about. Most interesting that this is what it's reverted to.

The Chiricahuas and Canyon of Death

I know, I know. It's been four months since I last blogged, but hey! I put information on an author's page for Amazon! It's not like I haven't been doing anything!

My webpage is going to expire one of these days soon, and in my next contract I'm making sure I put in some declaration that writing blogs isn't one of my duties. It's not in there now, but that publisher insists I do this. But, if I put it in writing that I dont' have to....hmmm. Wonder if she'll go along with that!?

I've been spending a lot of time in the Chiricahuas the last couple of months. It's probably some of the most beautiful country in Arizona that I've seen. Everywhere I go though, I insist the country is beautiful. But it's true. I must say though, that some of the Steens Mountains in Oregon and the Sisters Wilderness area is pretty spectacular, but the Chiricahuas probably beats them out overall.

The new book is progressing...slowly. I'm not sure why at this point. I've gotten a huge reprieve because of the Casey Tibbs book the publisher is working on, but not that huge of a reprieve. At least I know where I'm going in it. Actually, I've known all along where I'm going - I just haven't been sure how to get there. I pretty much have that figured out, but it looks like I've got a hell of a lot of riding to do this summer to check out some of the areas I'm putting in the book.

For a while I was thinking of ending the Jake Silver series, but at this point I'm thinking I may continue it, but I'm going to have to make some big changs to do so. The next book isn't under any deadline though, so I'm good! I'm staying with the western book publisher I now have, by the way, and that's Moonlight Mesa Associates.

I'm also thinking of getting a mule. This mountainous terrain is hard on my horse, and he's not young anymore. Now a mule could probably handle just about anything...but would a self-respecting cowboy be seen on a mule? I've heard nothing but good about these animals. I'll check it out next May when I go to Mule Days with Moonlight Mesa in Bishop, CA.

Had a good time in Tombstone. Signed a lot of books on Saturday (especially Saving Tom Black), met some crazy characters, got drunk that night...a good time was had by all. I'll be at the Pine/Strawberry Festival for one day only...probably Saturday. Stop by and say hi.

I'll also try to be at the Show Low Event as well as Heber/Overgaard, but not sure I'll make it to Ruidoso, although the Wild West Historical Convention sounds interesting. I'll be picking up some rodeos instead. Did I tell you I was a bull-dogger? I don't go by Jere James in rodeos, by the way. Go by my real name. Can't make it to Big Bear in August either, but I may get to Kanab, Utah, later that month.

Meanwhile, I've gotten lots of emails from people who really are enjoying my books, and that really makes me proud. I thank each and every person. Your words are music to my ears...well, since they're written, I guess I'd have to say they're desserts for my eyes...???

Apache has picked up a couple of other terrific reviews. I thank you. Each of you who says something good about my books deserves my sincerest thanks.

Jere

Pulling Teeth

Why is writing this blog so much more difficult, and painful, than writing a book? It just seems so deceptive and false.

Okay. I've got my assignment from my big, bad boss Becky, so here goes.

I've not been working on my new book. I've got to get down into the canyons and spend some time. That's easier said than done this time of year. But, the book is coming together in my head, and boy have some unusual ideas popped up. Can't wait to see how it all turns out.

I'll probably show up at the Yuma Festivities that my publisher is planning on attending...and I'll be at the Wickenburg Ranch Rodeo. In fact, I'd like to put a team together and enter that one - sounds like fun.

So, that's January. February? I'll be at the Gold Rush Days for at least one day. Probably one day at the Festival of the West. I'll pick a day that no one else wants to be there. ha ha. Ooops. Guess I'll do what I'm told by the Boss Lady who's reading this over my shoulder right now. That's what I get for stopping by for a free beer.

Saw the new book, Apache, which arrived here the other day. Wow. The cover guy did one bang up job! He's good! Real good! Can't wait to see what he comes up with for Canyon of Death, the next book.

Meanwhile, I'm taking my horse and gear into Mexico for a couple weeks in January. My publisher says the next time I sign a contract she's going to make it so I can't do "risky" things. Good luck with that! Anyway, I've been studying maps and whatnot. I found a good place to unload and leave my truck/trailer, and what should be good trails. I'll ride into Puerto Vallarta - spend two weeks or so doing it. Hope I don't get rounded up by banditos. Well, that'll make a helluva book, I'd say!

So - that's it for now. I am making only one New Year resolution - and that is to get the new book finished by fall so the publisher/editor/cover man can get at it for a 2011 publication. I like a deadline...and I like a challenge!

So, I'm corralled in the publisher's office today with an assignment...you guessed it. A blog.

I think I have a lot of trouble with these because I don't know why anyone would care what the heck I think. For the publisher, it makes sense - she's got a lot of things to say ALL THE TIME about her publications and projects. Me? I just have my horse and my two completed books.

I will say that I've been thinking a lot about Canyon of Death, a book that will follow the upcoming Apache. I'm trying to decide who lives, dies, and whether I'm going to continue this series or not. I might still write, but I'm wondering if I should move on to other people and places - still Western - but just leave Jake Silver et al behind. Anybody out there got any advice?

I also know I have to get to the canyons and do some serious hiking/riding before I can really proceed with Canyon of Death. It's been something I've been wanting to do anyway. I don't usually walk uphill though...that's what a horse is for, isn't it? I have to go to the canyons though, before I can proceed. The full story is there, waiting for me, I can feel it.

Got an early review from Midwest Book Review and, in all honesty, I was feeling pretty damn good about the great comments the reviewer made about me. It was almost embarrassing, but I sure appreciate every word that nice lady wrote!! Wouldn't have gotten half that praise though if it weren't for the efforts of the great Moonlight Mesa editor, Paula Silici. She should be getting the reviews...not me.

Publisher Beckons...

Okay. I'm back after an extended three weeks riding in the Sisters Wilderness area. Can't believe how cold it got this year...early. Had some snow in places. It felt great though to break out and spend some quality quiet time on my horse, eating my pathetic campfire cooking. I must be getting older though. I actually bought a small camper for my pickup...I didn't sleep out on the ground or in the horse trailer. The small comforts afforded by the camper were truly enjoyed. Had running water...a flushing toilet...small refrigerator. Felt like the lap of luxury!

Moonlight Mesa's editor has finished with my second book, Apache. Thank the good Lord there's not nearly as many pencil marks and comments as the first book! Learned my lesson from that woman! She's probably the best teacher I ever had!!

So, Moonlight Mesa's boss lady/slave driver called me back to fix the edits so we can get this show on the road. Good to be back in Arizona though...I'm enjoying the warm fall weather.

Haven't started on the next book yet other than a hint at the first chapter. I want to spend some time in the canyons this spring to say what I want to say and say it correctly...

Meanwhile, it looks like I have some signings and book events coming up for Saving Tom Black. The publisher told me she's already sold advance copies of Apache because people are liking Saving Tom Black so much. I'm honored and proud both. Hope to see you at a signing real soon.

Riding for the Brand

I'm not really the emotional type, so I'm only going to say this one more time, and I hope to make it really clear this time.

Am I changing publishers when I fulfill my commitment to Moonlight Mesa Associates? HELL NO!

I have to be honest and admit I don't really know how many more books I have in me. I know for certain I have one more: Canyon of Death. If I have more after that, my place is with Moonlight Mesa. It's called "Riding for the Brand." Even though that publisher keeps me running my ass off, there's a lot of fringe benefits around that office.

For starters, I get to empty trash, make copies and sometimes run errands. Then, there's always coffee and that good hazelnut creamer on hand. The real thing...not that crap stuff. Becky (the publisher) makes great creme brulee, and if there's any around I eat it for breakfast first thing.

Besides these heavy office duties and creme brulee, sometimes I help out by scooping horse poop and helping with the training of her rescue mare. She even makes me go out riding with her sometimes...other times I "get" to answer the phone while she's out galavanting around buying Western clothes. I tell her she can borrow mine, but she declines.

It gets worse when her husband's gone, because then I get all his godawful duties too.

Anyway, all I'm saying is that when a guy's treated this good, how can he consider taking off?

Sometimes I even spend time WRITING. Right now the editor is hacking away at my manuscript, Apache, but she sure makes it read nicer when she's finished! Vin, the cover designer is wrapping up the cover. Life's good at this publishing house.