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Megaplex
General | Posted 3 months agoI’m at Megaplex this year. If you see me, please drop by and say hello!
I don’t have much more to say, so AAAAAAAAAAA!
I don’t have much more to say, so AAAAAAAAAAA!
The First Flock Begins
General | Posted 4 months agoThe much requested prequel to The Bird House has officially begun, with the introduction and first chapter now available on FurAffinity. I’m aiming for a consistent weekly release schedule, to the best of my ability.
https://www.furaffinity.net/view/61659900
With this new story, I’m trying something a little different that may or may not stick around. My goal with this hobby has always been to create interesting stories and share them with as many people as possible. Over time, I’ve been fortunate enough to commission artwork from some wonderful artists, much of it funded directly through sales of the print editions of my books.
As a test, Chapter Two is already available on Patreon. It will be posted to FurAffinity next Tuesday. This early access is intended to help support future costs like artwork and other needs related to the series.
Just to reiterate: I have no intention of putting any part of the Anima series behind a permanent paywall. If you simply want to read and enjoy the story, it will be freely available on FurAffinity.
If you’re looking for other ways to support the project, I have print editions of both books available on Ko-fi. I receive a bit more through Ko-fi than Amazon, and it leaves me the possibility of leaving a note or small doodle in the cover.
But truly, the best way to support me has always been sharing the story with friends. Every recommendation helps Anima reach new readers, and I’m deeply grateful for it.
Patreon:
https://patreon.com/EricMalvesWriting
Ko-fi:
https://ko-fi.com/ericmalves/shop
https://www.furaffinity.net/view/61659900
With this new story, I’m trying something a little different that may or may not stick around. My goal with this hobby has always been to create interesting stories and share them with as many people as possible. Over time, I’ve been fortunate enough to commission artwork from some wonderful artists, much of it funded directly through sales of the print editions of my books.
As a test, Chapter Two is already available on Patreon. It will be posted to FurAffinity next Tuesday. This early access is intended to help support future costs like artwork and other needs related to the series.
Just to reiterate: I have no intention of putting any part of the Anima series behind a permanent paywall. If you simply want to read and enjoy the story, it will be freely available on FurAffinity.
If you’re looking for other ways to support the project, I have print editions of both books available on Ko-fi. I receive a bit more through Ko-fi than Amazon, and it leaves me the possibility of leaving a note or small doodle in the cover.
But truly, the best way to support me has always been sharing the story with friends. Every recommendation helps Anima reach new readers, and I’m deeply grateful for it.
Patreon:
https://patreon.com/EricMalvesWriting
Ko-fi:
https://ko-fi.com/ericmalves/shop
FWA 2025
General | Posted 7 months agoBy the looks of things, everything has line up for me to be able to attend FWA this year! If you are attending as well, I’d love to say hello!
Hopefully I’ll be less awkward at this con compared to AC last year 😆
Hopefully I’ll be less awkward at this con compared to AC last year 😆
Neighborwoods progress
General | Posted 10 months agoFor those who are unaware, my next project isn’t in the same world as the Anima stories. While I am excited to work on new stories within that concept, I think it’s best to give it some breathing room. Some recent bumps in activity on the two novel length stories have been pushing me to keep going. I’m excited to take the things I’ve learned and apply them to future writing.
My next project, Neighborwoods, is coming along quite nicely! After much deliberation and talks with a few different folks, it’s release will be similar but also different to previous works of mine. The story will be presented as 3-4 parts here on FA with small delays between each. Or alternatively available early on patreon/kofi. As I’ve stated before, I’m personally not interested in any sort of paywalls and funds from this would be put towards commissioning art and assistance in future projects.
Mostly want to say that while I’ve been quiet, I’ve not been sitting on my laurels. Life’s been full of ups and downs but things are progressing!
My next project, Neighborwoods, is coming along quite nicely! After much deliberation and talks with a few different folks, it’s release will be similar but also different to previous works of mine. The story will be presented as 3-4 parts here on FA with small delays between each. Or alternatively available early on patreon/kofi. As I’ve stated before, I’m personally not interested in any sort of paywalls and funds from this would be put towards commissioning art and assistance in future projects.
Mostly want to say that while I’ve been quiet, I’ve not been sitting on my laurels. Life’s been full of ups and downs but things are progressing!
24 going on 25
General | Posted 11 months agoIt’s finally the end of 2024 and I have to say, while it has been tough at times it also has been an alright year.
I started drawing more. I haven’t posted much as I’m still self conscious about, but drawing something is better than nothing. Hopefully soon I’ll have some things to share.
Broken Wing was completed and Bird House was revised. Seeing Bird House change into the current state it is feels much better. It’s what kicked off a new side of me and I have so many to thank for it. The next writing project is coming slow and beating me up with writers block, but it’s slowly coming along.
I got to dip my feet into Blender and explore 3D sculpting more. While I’m still incredibly green, it’s been a long time dream to learn the program.
I attended my first ever convention with Anthrocon 2024! If you were there, you probably didn’t know I was. Still working on being a bit more social in public. But if you saw a fairly tall person with wild hair, it may have been me!
As for 2025, I have a few goals.
As much as I am safe in my current living situation, I also can’t help but feel held back in some ways. Over the last few years I’ve felt like I can be more expressive and myself. To continue this journey, I think it’s quickly coming time for me to move on my own. That’s my personal life goal.
As for project goals I can think of three I’d like to do. Neighborwood is my current focus. It’s not exactly coming quickly as I recently scrapped much of what I had written. It felt fine but feels like the new version is going a direction I’m much happier with.
I’ve been working with some others to begin making a blue jay head for cons. It’s a printed base but hope to have it finished in time for FWA this year. Not 100% sure I’ll make it, but would love to have it as an option if I can go. If you are going, I’d love to meet you!
Anima. While Lyall’s story is over, I still have so many ideas for the world. One that has been heavily requested is a prequel for the Bird House focusing on Darren and Damien. I have ideas but also don’t want to burn people out on the characters. I have a few short stories that are in various stages of completion that I’d love to post this year. As always, I love hearing your thoughts on future work.
2025 is almost here. I have goals that I believe are achievable and really appreciate all of the encouragement I have received the past few years. I wish you a happy new year and can’t wait for what’s coming in the future.
-Eric Malves
I started drawing more. I haven’t posted much as I’m still self conscious about, but drawing something is better than nothing. Hopefully soon I’ll have some things to share.
Broken Wing was completed and Bird House was revised. Seeing Bird House change into the current state it is feels much better. It’s what kicked off a new side of me and I have so many to thank for it. The next writing project is coming slow and beating me up with writers block, but it’s slowly coming along.
I got to dip my feet into Blender and explore 3D sculpting more. While I’m still incredibly green, it’s been a long time dream to learn the program.
I attended my first ever convention with Anthrocon 2024! If you were there, you probably didn’t know I was. Still working on being a bit more social in public. But if you saw a fairly tall person with wild hair, it may have been me!
As for 2025, I have a few goals.
As much as I am safe in my current living situation, I also can’t help but feel held back in some ways. Over the last few years I’ve felt like I can be more expressive and myself. To continue this journey, I think it’s quickly coming time for me to move on my own. That’s my personal life goal.
As for project goals I can think of three I’d like to do. Neighborwood is my current focus. It’s not exactly coming quickly as I recently scrapped much of what I had written. It felt fine but feels like the new version is going a direction I’m much happier with.
I’ve been working with some others to begin making a blue jay head for cons. It’s a printed base but hope to have it finished in time for FWA this year. Not 100% sure I’ll make it, but would love to have it as an option if I can go. If you are going, I’d love to meet you!
Anima. While Lyall’s story is over, I still have so many ideas for the world. One that has been heavily requested is a prequel for the Bird House focusing on Darren and Damien. I have ideas but also don’t want to burn people out on the characters. I have a few short stories that are in various stages of completion that I’d love to post this year. As always, I love hearing your thoughts on future work.
2025 is almost here. I have goals that I believe are achievable and really appreciate all of the encouragement I have received the past few years. I wish you a happy new year and can’t wait for what’s coming in the future.
-Eric Malves
With all that out of the way… what’s next?
General | Posted a year agoSometimes it felt like it was never going to happen, but the two books are done and resting on the shelf(metaphorically and literally). Lots of lessons learned over the last three years including both how to write a story and how not to write a story. So the question is.. what’s next?
Anima has been my primary storyline since the beginning. With a premise like it has there are numerous stories that can be told and a few have been by both myself and others. But I’m afraid of, for the lack of a better term, beating a dead horse with it. Two books, two semi short stories and two shorts that were never released. It works but I don’t want to over do it. With that, here’s what’s being worked on.
An entirely new story called Neighborwood. Where in an attempt at combating the increasing needs of living a group undergoes changes to reduce their needs, forming a community at the same time.
A rework of the rough and incomplete Donum Solis story. What was originally a single short story was continued by request. This lead to issues later on that I am wanting to fix. The best way is to start from scratch and hit similar beats with a clearer story.
The next Anima story. While Lyall’s story is complete, there is one place I’ve been heavily asked about and that is what came before Lyall. While still early in the planning process, I will not go into detail. While the idea of a prequel is stereotypical of a storyline, I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t think there was compelling story to tell.
This sounds like a lot, so what about between all of this?
I’ve been wanting to explore more ideas for short, self contained stories. While I don’t really do commissions, suggested requests could be considered. If you have an idea some something you’d like to see, let me know. I can’t make promises, but the worst I can say is no.
Last notes on Bird House and Broken Wing.
Physical versions exist on Amazon once more and have come out wonderful! Updated kindle versions exist, but again the epub is able to be imported for free.
The best way to support me is to share the stories with friends. Many great conversations have spawned out of the books and I means so much to me. If you absolutely, positively, have to support me monetarily, my linktree below has links to paperbacks and Kofi at the very bottom.
https://linktr.ee/ericmalves
Anima has been my primary storyline since the beginning. With a premise like it has there are numerous stories that can be told and a few have been by both myself and others. But I’m afraid of, for the lack of a better term, beating a dead horse with it. Two books, two semi short stories and two shorts that were never released. It works but I don’t want to over do it. With that, here’s what’s being worked on.
An entirely new story called Neighborwood. Where in an attempt at combating the increasing needs of living a group undergoes changes to reduce their needs, forming a community at the same time.
A rework of the rough and incomplete Donum Solis story. What was originally a single short story was continued by request. This lead to issues later on that I am wanting to fix. The best way is to start from scratch and hit similar beats with a clearer story.
The next Anima story. While Lyall’s story is complete, there is one place I’ve been heavily asked about and that is what came before Lyall. While still early in the planning process, I will not go into detail. While the idea of a prequel is stereotypical of a storyline, I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t think there was compelling story to tell.
This sounds like a lot, so what about between all of this?
I’ve been wanting to explore more ideas for short, self contained stories. While I don’t really do commissions, suggested requests could be considered. If you have an idea some something you’d like to see, let me know. I can’t make promises, but the worst I can say is no.
Last notes on Bird House and Broken Wing.
Physical versions exist on Amazon once more and have come out wonderful! Updated kindle versions exist, but again the epub is able to be imported for free.
The best way to support me is to share the stories with friends. Many great conversations have spawned out of the books and I means so much to me. If you absolutely, positively, have to support me monetarily, my linktree below has links to paperbacks and Kofi at the very bottom.
https://linktr.ee/ericmalves
The Bird House and The Broken Wing are LIVE!
General | Posted a year agoIt’s finally time! After life has gotten busy and caused delays on the project, both books have been revised and are ready for your enjoyment. Over the last two years, I have learned much about writing and becoming a better storyteller. Hopefully, this will result in a better version of both books. Neither story would be where it is without the help and feedback from many friends.
Enough of my talking, what exactly is different?
The Bird House had a lot of work done to improve the story's grammar, punctuation, and flow. If you have read it already, it isn't a different story, but it has been significantly improved. Redundant or pointless bits have been removed but will go unnoticed. New artwork in progress by
Silvergriffin21 will be updated upon its completion.
The Broken Wing has had fewer changes, as it wasn’t in nearly as rough of shape. However, improvements to the flow and dialogue will help make it an easier read. A slight expansion on certain plot points gives a little more information on the world. Artwork by checkjtm was also added in this version.
EPUB versions are also made. I tested these on my personal Kindle and used them for reviewing during this project. Both links are in the descriptions of each respective story. Ebooks are no longer trapped behind Amazon!
Physical copies of both revisions will be available in the coming days. There have been delays in receiving proofs, which require just a little more time. Delaying is the best option to ensure they are as perfect as possible. Please remember that the content in the physical is identical to the PDF and EPUB. Extra effort was given to make page numbers line up as best as possible.
Below are the links to each story:
The Bird House:
https://www.furaffinity.net/view/49571094/
The Broken Wing:
https://www.furaffinity.net/view/58215116/
I can't wait to share what's next. I’ll have details to share soon!
If you would like to support me and my writing, below is a link to my Ko-Fi,
https://ko-fi.com/ericmalves
Enough of my talking, what exactly is different?
The Bird House had a lot of work done to improve the story's grammar, punctuation, and flow. If you have read it already, it isn't a different story, but it has been significantly improved. Redundant or pointless bits have been removed but will go unnoticed. New artwork in progress by
Silvergriffin21 will be updated upon its completion.The Broken Wing has had fewer changes, as it wasn’t in nearly as rough of shape. However, improvements to the flow and dialogue will help make it an easier read. A slight expansion on certain plot points gives a little more information on the world. Artwork by checkjtm was also added in this version.
EPUB versions are also made. I tested these on my personal Kindle and used them for reviewing during this project. Both links are in the descriptions of each respective story. Ebooks are no longer trapped behind Amazon!
Physical copies of both revisions will be available in the coming days. There have been delays in receiving proofs, which require just a little more time. Delaying is the best option to ensure they are as perfect as possible. Please remember that the content in the physical is identical to the PDF and EPUB. Extra effort was given to make page numbers line up as best as possible.
Below are the links to each story:
The Bird House:
https://www.furaffinity.net/view/49571094/
The Broken Wing:
https://www.furaffinity.net/view/58215116/
I can't wait to share what's next. I’ll have details to share soon!
If you would like to support me and my writing, below is a link to my Ko-Fi,
https://ko-fi.com/ericmalves
Bird House and Broken Wing release September 24th
General | Posted a year agoText edits are 100% complete. Both are significantly improved thanks to the help of many great friends!
If all goes well, I’m hoping to put out the digital downloads on FA Tuesday. If you really want a print version, that might be slightly delayed, but following soon for good reasons!
For digital releases, they will both be available as individual chapters, PDF and EPUB format. EPUB will probably be hosted off FA but directly linked!
There is no text content difference between the PDF/EPUB and the printed versions. Whichever is most convenient for you!
New changes in TBH:
Better formatting,
Fixed grammar errors,
Slightly expanded sections,
Better flow!
New in TBW:
Improved chapter count(29->18),
Fixed minor details,
Expanded scenes,
Proper reading format!
The goal of Tuesday is subject to change, but I have a great feeling about it.
With both of these completed, I’ll also be talking soon about the next projects I have in the works. Thank you all for your patience, it will be worth the wait!
If all goes well, I’m hoping to put out the digital downloads on FA Tuesday. If you really want a print version, that might be slightly delayed, but following soon for good reasons!
For digital releases, they will both be available as individual chapters, PDF and EPUB format. EPUB will probably be hosted off FA but directly linked!
There is no text content difference between the PDF/EPUB and the printed versions. Whichever is most convenient for you!
New changes in TBH:
Better formatting,
Fixed grammar errors,
Slightly expanded sections,
Better flow!
New in TBW:
Improved chapter count(29->18),
Fixed minor details,
Expanded scenes,
Proper reading format!
The goal of Tuesday is subject to change, but I have a great feeling about it.
With both of these completed, I’ll also be talking soon about the next projects I have in the works. Thank you all for your patience, it will be worth the wait!
Bird House and Broken Wing Beta Reads
General | Posted a year agoIt’s been way longer than I originally anticipated, but it’s finally time and the hopefully final version of Anima: The Bird House is compiled! A handful of beta readers already have it, but if you would like to give it a read early, let me know and I’d love to give you a PDF.
Anima: The Broken Wing is in the final stages and will be ready in the very near future.
I know it’s been way longer than I originally set expectations for, but I think it’s been well worth the wait. I cannot wait to get these in your hands!
I’m still trying to find the best way to distribute different formats of both. Of course there will be the PDF version and both will have a printed version available(this will be identical to the PDF version). The E-pub will probably be hosted offsite and linked in the PDF description. You will be able to import this to your favorite e-reader and enjoy it for free!
Once both of these are out and finished, I will be working on future content. I have ideas for stories in the same world, but I also have other ideas outside of the Anima world I would love to share. I promise I’m not just sitting around and can’t wait to share what we have cooked up!
-EM
Anima: The Broken Wing is in the final stages and will be ready in the very near future.
I know it’s been way longer than I originally set expectations for, but I think it’s been well worth the wait. I cannot wait to get these in your hands!
I’m still trying to find the best way to distribute different formats of both. Of course there will be the PDF version and both will have a printed version available(this will be identical to the PDF version). The E-pub will probably be hosted offsite and linked in the PDF description. You will be able to import this to your favorite e-reader and enjoy it for free!
Once both of these are out and finished, I will be working on future content. I have ideas for stories in the same world, but I also have other ideas outside of the Anima world I would love to share. I promise I’m not just sitting around and can’t wait to share what we have cooked up!
-EM
The Broken Wing is complete!
General | Posted a year agoAfter over a year of work, the Broken Wing is finally complete. Thank you all for coming along for the ride and supporting its release! It means the world to me. With that said, there are a few things that I’ll be working on/doin I. The coming week(s):
The combined PDF, similar to The Bird House’s will be posted here. Same story with minor corrections bundled all together.
Kindle/Print, this was done with The Bird House, but I was on the fence about doing this for Broken Wing. Print is probably a for sure as a few have specifically requested it and maybe the kindle ebook version? I’ll get into my complaints on that in the next bit. Both would be priced as low as I can on the platform as I’m not looking to make anything off of it. I mean, it’s free elsewhere so why bother?
EPUB, I’m trying to create an E-pub version as an alternative. You can send this to a kindle or any other e-reader to view. My gripe with kindle is that there is no way to distribute a kindle copy without the end user paying something. Since the book is already available as free txt’s and PDF, I think it’s kind of silly to require it be paid for an ebook. So both will probably exist, epub if you don’t mind a few extra steps and kindle if you want it quick and easy.
If you want to support me, the best way is to share the books with friends. I’d rather see more people enjoy these stories than get a few bucks from Amazon. If you reaaally want to support me monetarily, check out my Kofi. I don’t have anything to offer as again, I’d rather more people have access to the stories. I like Anima being a hobby and would like to keep it enjoyable.
The updated version of the Bird House is close! Time just hasn’t been my friend recently. A few people have access to the current version and a beta revision is available in the Discord linked below.
I have also started a discord where I plan on linking to different versions and having discussions. It’s named the Bird House and anyone is welcome to come hang and chat! It’s not a replacement for anything but rather a place to discuss the series specifically.
https://discord.gg/eGuGGhnZdx
I can’t say thank you enough to all of you! I love hearing your thoughts and listening to your thoughts on the series. As always my DMs and comments are always open and I will always make an effort to get back with you as quick as possible!
-Eric
The combined PDF, similar to The Bird House’s will be posted here. Same story with minor corrections bundled all together.
Kindle/Print, this was done with The Bird House, but I was on the fence about doing this for Broken Wing. Print is probably a for sure as a few have specifically requested it and maybe the kindle ebook version? I’ll get into my complaints on that in the next bit. Both would be priced as low as I can on the platform as I’m not looking to make anything off of it. I mean, it’s free elsewhere so why bother?
EPUB, I’m trying to create an E-pub version as an alternative. You can send this to a kindle or any other e-reader to view. My gripe with kindle is that there is no way to distribute a kindle copy without the end user paying something. Since the book is already available as free txt’s and PDF, I think it’s kind of silly to require it be paid for an ebook. So both will probably exist, epub if you don’t mind a few extra steps and kindle if you want it quick and easy.
If you want to support me, the best way is to share the books with friends. I’d rather see more people enjoy these stories than get a few bucks from Amazon. If you reaaally want to support me monetarily, check out my Kofi. I don’t have anything to offer as again, I’d rather more people have access to the stories. I like Anima being a hobby and would like to keep it enjoyable.
The updated version of the Bird House is close! Time just hasn’t been my friend recently. A few people have access to the current version and a beta revision is available in the Discord linked below.
I have also started a discord where I plan on linking to different versions and having discussions. It’s named the Bird House and anyone is welcome to come hang and chat! It’s not a replacement for anything but rather a place to discuss the series specifically.
https://discord.gg/eGuGGhnZdx
I can’t say thank you enough to all of you! I love hearing your thoughts and listening to your thoughts on the series. As always my DMs and comments are always open and I will always make an effort to get back with you as quick as possible!
-Eric
The final 3 of Broken Wing begins Friday
General | Posted a year agoIt's finally time to bring it to a close.
The last three chapters of The Broken Wing will be released sequentially on Friday morning, Saturday, and Sunday.
It's taken quite a while but I think it has been worth the wait. I cannot wait to share the ending with you!
-Eric
The last three chapters of The Broken Wing will be released sequentially on Friday morning, Saturday, and Sunday.
It's taken quite a while but I think it has been worth the wait. I cannot wait to share the ending with you!
-Eric
The ending and future short questions
General | Posted a year agoI know I’ve been saying it, but now it’s actually time that The Broken Wing comes to a close. But I think I would like to change how the ending is delivered. For the sake of the experience I would either like to A) release the last chapters together or B) release them in rapid succession, think like a day in between.
What I want to know is, how would you like the ending to be posted?
I’m leaning towards one bigger, end of the story release that doesn’t leave parts hanging while waiting on the next chapter. But I’m all ears to any suggestions!
One other thing I wanted to explore was a few short stories following Broken Wing’s conclusion. My idea is to hold a story raffle, allowing anyone to publicly give something as simple as an idea or even a brief synopsis of a story. These could take place in the same universe as Bird House and Broken WiI’m still not comfortable with doing direct commissions but at least I could try writing something suggested by you!
I’d love to hear talks thoughts!
What I want to know is, how would you like the ending to be posted?
I’m leaning towards one bigger, end of the story release that doesn’t leave parts hanging while waiting on the next chapter. But I’m all ears to any suggestions!
One other thing I wanted to explore was a few short stories following Broken Wing’s conclusion. My idea is to hold a story raffle, allowing anyone to publicly give something as simple as an idea or even a brief synopsis of a story. These could take place in the same universe as Bird House and Broken WiI’m still not comfortable with doing direct commissions but at least I could try writing something suggested by you!
I’d love to hear talks thoughts!
Lately it’s been quiet…
General | Posted 2 years agoI had a huge gap between chapters, more than I would have honestly liked but there have been reasons.
Work has been stressful and the current trajectory of my irl job has been all over the place. That’s no excuse or reason for me to complain, it’s just the nature of how the world is as of recent, but it still is something! Some family stuff has happened, but I won’t bore anyone with the details. Not a fun past few weeks (or even week) but I think things are starting to look up.
Just to give an update on the three working projects and a few others:
Donum is back burnered for now. It has issues and I think could use a good rework. It wasn’t meant to become a multi part and I think that shows too much in it. Eventually I’d love to revisit it, but for now I think it’s best to set it aside for later.
The Broken Wing is getting close! I already have progress made on all of the final chapters, but have been taking my time to make sure it’s worth the effort. This will be the final story involving Lyall (I know that’s what I said last time) and I want as satisfying of an ending as possible. Without spoiling, there is going to be quite a lot happening in the next few chapters, but I think you’ll love it!
The Bird House edit is coming along nicely. Already the beginning is much smoother and reads a little less like authors first book, at least I hope! Before long, I may ask for a few volunteers to give it a read and see how it compares.
tayohshadowind has been a huge help in the edit along with help from another user I have not been able to verify wants mentioned. Bird House has reached farther than I could have ever imagined and I’ve heard so many wonderful stories about people’s experiences with the book. I hope that the new edit allows more people to enjoy the story of Lyall and his friends.
The next big project is in the works! I know I really should finish the current two and that’s happening soon, but I’ve been collecting thoughts and outlining the next story. It’s not part of the Anima stories but still has its roots in TF. I won’t go into too much detail yet, but I do have the working title of “Neighborwood” that I am comfortable sharing. I think it’ll be a different take, while still being a fun read. I can’t wait to share more in the future!
I figured I should give an update, I promise I’m not going anywhere and that I’ll have more in the future. Life’s just been a little difficult, but I think everyone can say that right now.
Work has been stressful and the current trajectory of my irl job has been all over the place. That’s no excuse or reason for me to complain, it’s just the nature of how the world is as of recent, but it still is something! Some family stuff has happened, but I won’t bore anyone with the details. Not a fun past few weeks (or even week) but I think things are starting to look up.
Just to give an update on the three working projects and a few others:
Donum is back burnered for now. It has issues and I think could use a good rework. It wasn’t meant to become a multi part and I think that shows too much in it. Eventually I’d love to revisit it, but for now I think it’s best to set it aside for later.
The Broken Wing is getting close! I already have progress made on all of the final chapters, but have been taking my time to make sure it’s worth the effort. This will be the final story involving Lyall (I know that’s what I said last time) and I want as satisfying of an ending as possible. Without spoiling, there is going to be quite a lot happening in the next few chapters, but I think you’ll love it!
The Bird House edit is coming along nicely. Already the beginning is much smoother and reads a little less like authors first book, at least I hope! Before long, I may ask for a few volunteers to give it a read and see how it compares.
tayohshadowind has been a huge help in the edit along with help from another user I have not been able to verify wants mentioned. Bird House has reached farther than I could have ever imagined and I’ve heard so many wonderful stories about people’s experiences with the book. I hope that the new edit allows more people to enjoy the story of Lyall and his friends. The next big project is in the works! I know I really should finish the current two and that’s happening soon, but I’ve been collecting thoughts and outlining the next story. It’s not part of the Anima stories but still has its roots in TF. I won’t go into too much detail yet, but I do have the working title of “Neighborwood” that I am comfortable sharing. I think it’ll be a different take, while still being a fun read. I can’t wait to share more in the future!
I figured I should give an update, I promise I’m not going anywhere and that I’ll have more in the future. Life’s just been a little difficult, but I think everyone can say that right now.
Goodbye 2023 and welcome 2024
General | Posted 2 years agoAnother year of fun is passing, but another year of fun is coming right behind it!
It's wild to think how much happened this year. Two complete stories, a partial story, and the beginning of another novel. It feels like the two stories came out so long ago, I still can't wrap my head around it!
There are so few progress updates on current things!
Broken Wing is going well! Thanks to some feedback, I will be posting a revised Chapter 18. It is not a significant change, but more detail and time are spent on the two bigger things to happen in that chapter. You may have noticed the shorter chapters. Many of the chapters will be combined later. Nothing will be lost, but many chapters could serve better combined. Overall, the story is going right as I imagined it would, but I know that it can be quite a bit different of a feel from the story before it. It is slower-paced and has a different vibe. I hope you still enjoy it.
I have been working, with lots of help, on the edits to The Bird House. With how far we are in the revisions, I'm only getting more excited to have it ready. I want to have a much nicer formatted PDF for the download, along with updating individual chapters for those who browse like that. For the paid copies, the ebook will be corrected, and I plan on replacing every physical print that exists. I've been told this is unnecessary, but it's the best way to thank those who have come along the journey. Again, I will be talking more about that when it gets closer to release.
A few may have heard my plans for whats to follow Broken Wing. I have two projects I am planning, but I am not quite ready to talk too much about them. One is a short story, and the other is a possible book. Sadly, neither ties into the world of the Bird House, but I think letting that series rest a moment could be good for it. I have lots of ideas for that series! I don't want to ONLY do that series. The short story isn't furry, so I'm unsure where that will eventually be posted. The other story will have TF in it, but it will be handled much differently.
I'm excited to finish Broken Wing and can't wait to talk more about Bird House and the other two projects. Thank you for being around yet another year; I love you all and can't wait to share these projects.
-EM
It's wild to think how much happened this year. Two complete stories, a partial story, and the beginning of another novel. It feels like the two stories came out so long ago, I still can't wrap my head around it!
There are so few progress updates on current things!
Broken Wing is going well! Thanks to some feedback, I will be posting a revised Chapter 18. It is not a significant change, but more detail and time are spent on the two bigger things to happen in that chapter. You may have noticed the shorter chapters. Many of the chapters will be combined later. Nothing will be lost, but many chapters could serve better combined. Overall, the story is going right as I imagined it would, but I know that it can be quite a bit different of a feel from the story before it. It is slower-paced and has a different vibe. I hope you still enjoy it.
I have been working, with lots of help, on the edits to The Bird House. With how far we are in the revisions, I'm only getting more excited to have it ready. I want to have a much nicer formatted PDF for the download, along with updating individual chapters for those who browse like that. For the paid copies, the ebook will be corrected, and I plan on replacing every physical print that exists. I've been told this is unnecessary, but it's the best way to thank those who have come along the journey. Again, I will be talking more about that when it gets closer to release.
A few may have heard my plans for whats to follow Broken Wing. I have two projects I am planning, but I am not quite ready to talk too much about them. One is a short story, and the other is a possible book. Sadly, neither ties into the world of the Bird House, but I think letting that series rest a moment could be good for it. I have lots of ideas for that series! I don't want to ONLY do that series. The short story isn't furry, so I'm unsure where that will eventually be posted. The other story will have TF in it, but it will be handled much differently.
I'm excited to finish Broken Wing and can't wait to talk more about Bird House and the other two projects. Thank you for being around yet another year; I love you all and can't wait to share these projects.
-EM
One year later… and maybe a few extra days.
General | Posted 2 years agoIt was exciting to finish chapter 19 of the Bird House and it feels as though it wasn’t long ago, but now it’s been just over a year since the Bird House was completed.
Since then I have made two and a half short stories, a one off and a large portion of another long form story. I was kind of hoping to have Broken Wing completed by the one year anniversary of Bird House, but I think it’s better not to rush it.
What I do want to do is finish the improved version of Bird House to release around the same time as Broken Wing concludes. With the edited version, the story itself is the same but I have been working with another person on some improvements to punctuation and some sentence flow. So you won’t be missing out of any new story bits, but it should be a better read if you haven’t already.
If you may remember, there is the ability to get a printed copy of the book. This will also be updated and I think the best thing I could do would be to offer to replace anyone’s copy with the revised version when the time comes. I’m still working out the logistics of that, but I have a few ideas on how it could best be handled. I will talk more about that as it gets closer to happening. If you liked the story enough to get it on paper, it’s the absolute least I could do for you.
I also will be finishing a requested story I wrote a little while back. It is in a draft state and just needs a few things improved here and there. Just a short, journal style story but it does feature a Ringtailed cat!
I just wanted to update here since it’s been three months since the last one. As always, my comments and DMs are always open for any questions or requests.
Since then I have made two and a half short stories, a one off and a large portion of another long form story. I was kind of hoping to have Broken Wing completed by the one year anniversary of Bird House, but I think it’s better not to rush it.
What I do want to do is finish the improved version of Bird House to release around the same time as Broken Wing concludes. With the edited version, the story itself is the same but I have been working with another person on some improvements to punctuation and some sentence flow. So you won’t be missing out of any new story bits, but it should be a better read if you haven’t already.
If you may remember, there is the ability to get a printed copy of the book. This will also be updated and I think the best thing I could do would be to offer to replace anyone’s copy with the revised version when the time comes. I’m still working out the logistics of that, but I have a few ideas on how it could best be handled. I will talk more about that as it gets closer to happening. If you liked the story enough to get it on paper, it’s the absolute least I could do for you.
I also will be finishing a requested story I wrote a little while back. It is in a draft state and just needs a few things improved here and there. Just a short, journal style story but it does feature a Ringtailed cat!
I just wanted to update here since it’s been three months since the last one. As always, my comments and DMs are always open for any questions or requests.
It’s been awhile
General | Posted 2 years agoI’m back! I was gone for much longer than I would have liked, but good came of it!
I took a short break on Broken Wing to make sure it was on the track I wanted it to be. Looked at the future plans and the past chapters and came to the conclusion that it’s on track for my goals.
I’ve been getting a ton of help from tayohshadowind on proof reading new chapters. If you have been noticing a reduction in errors, it’s because of their help!
The Bird House is getting some edits as well. I’ve been working through the manuscript with help from a kind user here. I haven’t asked if they would like to be named yet, but they have been a great help with Bird House! No story changes, just grammatical changes. You won’t be missing anything if you don’t re-read it.
Chapter 7 of The Broken Wing is live and I can’t wait to hear what you think of it. Sorry for the long delay, but I think a ton of good came from it.
Thank you all. You have no idea how much I appreciate the support. I can’t wait to continue this story for you!
-EM
I took a short break on Broken Wing to make sure it was on the track I wanted it to be. Looked at the future plans and the past chapters and came to the conclusion that it’s on track for my goals.
I’ve been getting a ton of help from
tayohshadowind on proof reading new chapters. If you have been noticing a reduction in errors, it’s because of their help!The Bird House is getting some edits as well. I’ve been working through the manuscript with help from a kind user here. I haven’t asked if they would like to be named yet, but they have been a great help with Bird House! No story changes, just grammatical changes. You won’t be missing anything if you don’t re-read it.
Chapter 7 of The Broken Wing is live and I can’t wait to hear what you think of it. Sorry for the long delay, but I think a ton of good came from it.
Thank you all. You have no idea how much I appreciate the support. I can’t wait to continue this story for you!
-EM
Back after a little break
General | Posted 2 years agoI kind of disappeared for a little while. Ended up taking a small break and working on some other things.
During that time I had a vacation and attended Furality Sylva in VR. It was an amazing event and the closest thing to a con I have ever attended! But Now I am feeling good and have been hard at work doing some writing for both Anima and Donum Solis.
The new chapter four of The Broken Wing is up on here and will also be up on other sites a little later today.
Excited to get back into the grove and I apologize for not giving any updates.
-Eric
During that time I had a vacation and attended Furality Sylva in VR. It was an amazing event and the closest thing to a con I have ever attended! But Now I am feeling good and have been hard at work doing some writing for both Anima and Donum Solis.
The new chapter four of The Broken Wing is up on here and will also be up on other sites a little later today.
Excited to get back into the grove and I apologize for not giving any updates.
-Eric
What’s coming this week!
General | Posted 2 years agoI want to start by saying, I still feel like I over use the journals. I can’t tell for sure as most seem to use it non stop or practically. If I DO make posts here too often, don’t be afraid to tell me to chill out.
This week I hope to get a few things done.
Another editing pass on Zoo Intern and Camping Trip, possibly even a PDF of both. Not sure the future of these two stories as both a bit too short on their own.
The next part of Donum Solis is going great, not ready yet, but it is coming soon!
I have the second chapter of the Bird house continuation finished. That will be getting posted Monday night/Tuesday here.
Tentatively the new story is call “Anima: The Broken Wing” That name is not final and could possibly change, but for right now I think it fits what the overall of the story will be, some of which is hinted in this new chapter.
That’s all for now, again I think I may be using this section of the site too much. I want to move smaller updates to somewhere else so I’m not blasting folks notifications. As always, I’m open to feedback if I’m doing something badly.
Until next time!
-EM
This week I hope to get a few things done.
Another editing pass on Zoo Intern and Camping Trip, possibly even a PDF of both. Not sure the future of these two stories as both a bit too short on their own.
The next part of Donum Solis is going great, not ready yet, but it is coming soon!
I have the second chapter of the Bird house continuation finished. That will be getting posted Monday night/Tuesday here.
Tentatively the new story is call “Anima: The Broken Wing” That name is not final and could possibly change, but for right now I think it fits what the overall of the story will be, some of which is hinted in this new chapter.
That’s all for now, again I think I may be using this section of the site too much. I want to move smaller updates to somewhere else so I’m not blasting folks notifications. As always, I’m open to feedback if I’m doing something badly.
Until next time!
-EM
The sequel thing
General | Posted 2 years agoI posted my test chapter I wrote for a sequel to Bird House.
Still uneasy with continuing the story, but I figured either way, some maybe able to find some enjoyment in reading it. I have my other projects I’m working on, but felt inspired to at least write a chapter to experiment with.
Enjoy if you would like, but I can’t say if there is anymore coming of it yet. For now it’s not a true continuation of the story.
-EM
Still uneasy with continuing the story, but I figured either way, some maybe able to find some enjoyment in reading it. I have my other projects I’m working on, but felt inspired to at least write a chapter to experiment with.
Enjoy if you would like, but I can’t say if there is anymore coming of it yet. For now it’s not a true continuation of the story.
-EM
One year later
General | Posted 2 years agoApril 17th of 2022 I posted on this site for the first time. Today marks one year since then and it’s wild how much has change since then. My first draft of the first chapter was ROUGH, I think it’s safe to say my new writing is rough without all caps!
It’s fun to look back at what I’ve learned and what mistakes I made along the way. I’m excited to see what happens in the next year, maybe I can call my writing “decent” by the end of it!
Thank you to everyone who takes the time to read what I write. It means a lot to hear what you all think.
One last thing, I have realized I make a LOT of journals. If I am making an excessive number of them, would someone let me know? 😅
-EM
It’s fun to look back at what I’ve learned and what mistakes I made along the way. I’m excited to see what happens in the next year, maybe I can call my writing “decent” by the end of it!
Thank you to everyone who takes the time to read what I write. It means a lot to hear what you all think.
One last thing, I have realized I make a LOT of journals. If I am making an excessive number of them, would someone let me know? 😅
-EM
First non-Anima Story is coming this week (probably)
General | Posted 2 years agoInspired by some folks on the Mastodon, I have written my first gryphon TF story. Its not a slow burn TF story like Anima and frankly has zero to do with Anima. The story currently is at about 7,500 words in length and could possibly be continued if desired, but also is fully self contained.
The current working name is “Donum Solis” and I have been working on it for a few weeks now.
I wanted to mix up my writing a bit and expand to things beyond just Anima as I’m sure many have wanted me to explore more. I won’t give too much away yet as I don't want to spoil it but it does heavily center around a relation ship between two characters. It’s not a sad or melancholy story (in my opinion) but rather a happier story.
But I will warn, this story will be listed as NSFW. More so than other stories and chapters I have posted on Fur Affinity. So bear with me as I try to expand my horizons and release something fresh for you. Although it may not be perfect, part of trying it to try in the first place.
Thank you all who read this journal for doing so! Your feedback and advice is always greatly appreciated. I can only do better by learning what I have done wrong, and boy do I get a lot wrong at times!
-Eric
The current working name is “Donum Solis” and I have been working on it for a few weeks now.
I wanted to mix up my writing a bit and expand to things beyond just Anima as I’m sure many have wanted me to explore more. I won’t give too much away yet as I don't want to spoil it but it does heavily center around a relation ship between two characters. It’s not a sad or melancholy story (in my opinion) but rather a happier story.
But I will warn, this story will be listed as NSFW. More so than other stories and chapters I have posted on Fur Affinity. So bear with me as I try to expand my horizons and release something fresh for you. Although it may not be perfect, part of trying it to try in the first place.
Thank you all who read this journal for doing so! Your feedback and advice is always greatly appreciated. I can only do better by learning what I have done wrong, and boy do I get a lot wrong at times!
-Eric
One chapter today, the other maybe this week.
General | Posted 3 years agoHey all!
I have the Chapter 4 of Zoo Intern ready to post and the next chapter of Camping trip is written. While I’m happy with Zoo Intern, I’m having second thoughts about the current chapter of Camping Trip. So I’m going to upload Zoo Intern today when I get home and I’m going to go over camping trip again.
The chapter moves in the direction I want, but I can’t help but feel like it’s boring. It is close to the end, so it is setting up the final chapter but I think it could be better. I’m going to work on it more tonight and see what I need to do to get it where I would like it to be.
As for the next long form story, I have had a few people ask when the next long chapter story (like the bird house) would be. I am currently finishing up an outline and will begin writing it very soon! I plan on writing it along with a couple single entry stories that may or may not relate to Anima.
Sorry for yet another wall of text and thanks for hearing what I have to say. I love hearing everyone’s feedback and love writing stuff for you all!
I have the Chapter 4 of Zoo Intern ready to post and the next chapter of Camping trip is written. While I’m happy with Zoo Intern, I’m having second thoughts about the current chapter of Camping Trip. So I’m going to upload Zoo Intern today when I get home and I’m going to go over camping trip again.
The chapter moves in the direction I want, but I can’t help but feel like it’s boring. It is close to the end, so it is setting up the final chapter but I think it could be better. I’m going to work on it more tonight and see what I need to do to get it where I would like it to be.
As for the next long form story, I have had a few people ask when the next long chapter story (like the bird house) would be. I am currently finishing up an outline and will begin writing it very soon! I plan on writing it along with a couple single entry stories that may or may not relate to Anima.
Sorry for yet another wall of text and thanks for hearing what I have to say. I love hearing everyone’s feedback and love writing stuff for you all!
Opinions for the next long form story.
General | Posted 3 years agoOn Tuesday (realistically Monday night) Ill be posting the next chapters for both Camping Trip and Zoo Intern.
Camping Trip as a whole will probably finish close to the ending of Zoo Intern. At that time I will start posting my unnamed Ringtail and Peacock stories. Both of which will be short stories submitted as a single chapter, but longer in length.
What’s Next!
I have been working on the next long form story as well. I have the outline finished and the major plot points decided, my only concern is its effects on the ending of The Bird House.
I am very happy with how The Bird House ended. I feel like it brought a good end to Lyall’s story, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t leave it open for more. I have a plot that I think would make a great continuation using aspects of the story setup in the original book. It would be written from Lyall’s perspective again but years after the ending of the Bird House. My main fear is that while I love the idea of this new story, I don’t want to sour the ending I wrote for the original.
So I ask, would you like to see a sequel to The Bird House? Or should I let the story be as it is?
I don’t want to sour a story, but I also love the ideas I have for a sequel. There are no bad takes, I just want to hear what YOU want to read.
-Eric
Camping Trip as a whole will probably finish close to the ending of Zoo Intern. At that time I will start posting my unnamed Ringtail and Peacock stories. Both of which will be short stories submitted as a single chapter, but longer in length.
What’s Next!
I have been working on the next long form story as well. I have the outline finished and the major plot points decided, my only concern is its effects on the ending of The Bird House.
I am very happy with how The Bird House ended. I feel like it brought a good end to Lyall’s story, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t leave it open for more. I have a plot that I think would make a great continuation using aspects of the story setup in the original book. It would be written from Lyall’s perspective again but years after the ending of the Bird House. My main fear is that while I love the idea of this new story, I don’t want to sour the ending I wrote for the original.
So I ask, would you like to see a sequel to The Bird House? Or should I let the story be as it is?
I don’t want to sour a story, but I also love the ideas I have for a sequel. There are no bad takes, I just want to hear what YOU want to read.
-Eric
Two chapters, Two different stories
General | Posted 3 years agoI missed a week again! I promised I wouldn’t but here we are and I can blame a hundred different things, or…..
To make up for it, I just uploaded part 4 of Camping Trip and the first part of Zoo Intern. Zoo Intern was a little tricky as it does have a closer relationship between two people. Hopefully i does not come out as cheesy, I’ve been hesitant to post it as I can’t do romantic writing to save my life. So let me know if it’s good or not, and my apologies now if. Its terrible. Try anything once, right?
I’m back on schedule with the plan of uploading on Tuesdays (Monday night is close enough).
I have been active on Twitter less with…. Weird things going on. But I am active on Mastodon! My handle on Mastodon is @EricMalves@squawk.social, it’s similar to twitter but community ran. But as always, my comments, DMs, telegram/anywhere you can find me, is always open!
Thank you all again for your kind support!
I am glad to be back into the swing of writing and I can’t wait to see what we do next!
-Eric
To make up for it, I just uploaded part 4 of Camping Trip and the first part of Zoo Intern. Zoo Intern was a little tricky as it does have a closer relationship between two people. Hopefully i does not come out as cheesy, I’ve been hesitant to post it as I can’t do romantic writing to save my life. So let me know if it’s good or not, and my apologies now if. Its terrible. Try anything once, right?
I’m back on schedule with the plan of uploading on Tuesdays (Monday night is close enough).
I have been active on Twitter less with…. Weird things going on. But I am active on Mastodon! My handle on Mastodon is @EricMalves@squawk.social, it’s similar to twitter but community ran. But as always, my comments, DMs, telegram/anywhere you can find me, is always open!
Thank you all again for your kind support!
I am glad to be back into the swing of writing and I can’t wait to see what we do next!
-Eric
Holidays and upcoming chapters
General | Posted 3 years agoI’d like to begin with an apology for being so quiet the last few weeks. Holidays have been fairly busy and writing and editing has been slow. But the next chapters are coming, I promise!
I have been thinking of shifting my (usual) posting day from Sunday to Tuesday. I feel like I could have a better time editing by having the weekend to draft and Monday to edit. I’ve had more errors slip out recently than I would like. (Thanks for pointing out errors and mistakes!)
Anima was reviewed by Furry Book Review recently! The reviewer seemed to enjoy it, they gave some great new critiques too. I know the final result is was not perfect, but I’m proud of what we were able to make. The positive feedback I have received since starting this project is never what I would have expected back almost a year ago.
https://furrybookreview.com/anima/
Camping Trip is moving along well, the next chapter is going to be closer in length to an TBH chapter. The first two were shorter and honestly could have been combined into one now that I look back at it. It will be shorter as a whole compared to TBH but I love the story outline I have for it and I think you may like it too!
The Kangaroo short story is going to be around 2-3 chapters but for the sake of not having a big gap, I'm thinking the best bet may be to release all 2-3 at the same time. It’s a less, for lack of a better term, complete TF. But a neat look into another aspect of the world.
I’m still here! I will be posting more soon, just getting slowed down by the holidays right now. But I’m excited to get the next bits out and in the wild!
-EM
I have been thinking of shifting my (usual) posting day from Sunday to Tuesday. I feel like I could have a better time editing by having the weekend to draft and Monday to edit. I’ve had more errors slip out recently than I would like. (Thanks for pointing out errors and mistakes!)
Anima was reviewed by Furry Book Review recently! The reviewer seemed to enjoy it, they gave some great new critiques too. I know the final result is was not perfect, but I’m proud of what we were able to make. The positive feedback I have received since starting this project is never what I would have expected back almost a year ago.
https://furrybookreview.com/anima/
Camping Trip is moving along well, the next chapter is going to be closer in length to an TBH chapter. The first two were shorter and honestly could have been combined into one now that I look back at it. It will be shorter as a whole compared to TBH but I love the story outline I have for it and I think you may like it too!
The Kangaroo short story is going to be around 2-3 chapters but for the sake of not having a big gap, I'm thinking the best bet may be to release all 2-3 at the same time. It’s a less, for lack of a better term, complete TF. But a neat look into another aspect of the world.
I’m still here! I will be posting more soon, just getting slowed down by the holidays right now. But I’m excited to get the next bits out and in the wild!
-EM
