The State of the Tales by Bob Empire, 2022

So here we are, already in the midst of 2022. So that means it's time for my review of where things stand in the Tales by Bob Empire, such as it is! So lets take a look back, and a look ahead shall we!

A Look Back!

2021 was a good year, all things considered. I'm not going to touch on covid bullshit, because I think we're all so fatigued of living it. But outside of that, a lot of things went right.

First, I released two books! And they are doing about as well as a no-name indie author could hope for. They both have a good number of great reviews, and folks seem to be really linking them. This is probably the thing I am most proud of, looking back over the year.

Second, I started a non-profit! The Hilltop Howlers are a non-profit dedicated to supporting art and culture in Montgomery, and it has so far been very well received. We did a good bit of fun things in 2021, and 2022 is shaping up to be even more productive.

Third, I was able to actually get to some conventions. I was able to present a panel at Alabama Comic Con, which went great. I also was able to go to Dragoncon, and made some excellent connections.

Fourth, I made a good chunk of change doing freelance work on Fiverr, and got to write for some really cool projects. I am looking forward to seeing these come to market, and once they do I will be sure to let you know!

Books, Beards, Booze came gasping back to life, but looks like it's dying it's final death now. The intention is to put out one more episode, a farewell, and then call it quits. Sad day, but I only have so many hours in the day.

Lastly, I didn't do much in the way of shirts and games though. A few shirts here and there, but I don't know if I actually even made any new games that made it to market. So that was a little lackluster.

A Look Ahead!

2021 was a good year, but I am hoping that 2022 will be even better! Here are my goals:

• Release at least 3 more Howard Marsh novels. Granted, one is about to come out in just a few days. But I am hopeful that this summer and winter I will be able to put out books 4 and 5 respectively.

• I am toying with the idea of putting out some other book. I have a number in the can so to speak, that money and time allowing I may try to get to market. They won't be a Marsh book though.

• I want to take all of my one sheet and micro rpgs, and revise them into one solid uniform system. If I can do this, I may look into releasing a book of one shot rpgs. Regardless, they will at least have a lot more interchangeability and appeal if I can find the time to do this.

• I want to get at least one new shirt design uploaded each week.

• I want to start some sort of new podcast.

• I want to attend as many regional conventions as possible, and be on as many panels as I can finagle!

So that's the plan! I am really looking forward to what the new year might bring, and I hope you will stick around to see it unfold!

Cheers!