Well, today is the day.

After years of drafts and edits, over 100 literary agent rejections, a lengthy pre-order campaign, delays related to pandemics, supply chain issues, and swarms of locusts, and a college advisor whose best advice to me was that I “pick a real career”, my debut novel, Showtime, has been released into the wild. While it’s the second one I’ve written, it’s the first one that has been published, and it’s crazy to think that something I wrote for me, that once existed only in my imagination, now belongs to…well, everyone (yes, you).

The first draft (written way back in the summer of 2017 took about 6 months to write. I remember exactly where I was when I wrote the first line—in a shoebox of an office, during a break while substitute teaching an elementary music class (which I don’t recommend, by the way)—and the feeling that the story I was waiting to tell wasn’t going to get written unless I sat down and actually wrote it. So, I did. I didn’t end up using any of the first chapter (or the second, or the third) of that first draft, but I got words on paper, and that’s what counts. Which is a long-winded way of me saying that the book has evolved a lot (re: a lot) over the past five years. There were countless rewrites and revisions, drafts and edits, late nights and weekends, and more than a few times when I wanted to hurl my laptop out the window and stuff my face with cake rather than write another damn word (I definitely did that last one, though). But giving up would’ve been easy. It also would’ve given the win to anyone who’s ever told me “no”. Plus, I’m stubborn.

So, while it has taken a lot longer than I thought it would take to get here, I’m so grateful that we’re here together. Your copies of Showtime will be arriving shortly (if not already) and, if you’re lucky, maybe you’ve even got a comfy reading chair, a roaring fireplace, and perhaps a warm beverage or two to pair it with.

Stories are unique in that they allow us to be transported, for however brief a time, into the other: other times, other places, and into the shoes of other people. They’re a blissful escape, but also a vital part of what makes us human, as integral to our lives as a heart and brain, food and water. They make us feel, make us think, and, most importantly, they build empathy in a world and time that could really use a whole lot more of it.

I hope you enjoy Showtime, and the stories of Jordan, Sam, Charity, and Matt. They’re flawed people, but I like them a whole lot. After living alone with them for so long, I’m excited for you to meet them. If their adventures make you think differently about someone or something, or act as an escape as you unwind after a rough day, or make your heart skyrocket with adrenaline—if they make you feel—then I’ve done my job.

I mention this in the Acknowledgements, but it’s worth repeating: while writing the book was a solidary endeavor, it literally would not be in your hands (or on its way into your hands) without the unwavering support, enthusiasm, excitement (and more than a dash of saintly patience) of my family, friends, co-workers, and complete strangers who offered me their time, eyes, and hard-earned dollars. Thank you for your support of my writing, your confidence and trust, and for coming together to support books.

I’ll only ask for one more thing: after you finish the book, would you please leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads? Early reviews generate buzz, and buzz is vital to an author’s securing of another book deal. I’ve got another one written and ready for you (it’s called Monsters, and boy is it a doozy), and I’d love for it to make it into your hands as well.

But for now, let’s read. I’ve got a story I want to share with you. 

Ricky Ruszin
12/6/2022

Apologies for the looong delay in this update! I can hardly believe it’s been four years since my raw manuscript was chosen as a winner of Inkshares’ mystery and thriller contest. Since then, myself and the force of nature that is Adam Gomolin have been working tirelessly on the project. And now, after no fewer that eight  - yes, eight! - drafts, The Unforgiven Dead is done. Finished! Finito! 

Although the exact publication date is yet to be confirmed, we’re looking at spiring or summer of 2023. Until then, you can get a taste of what to expect by checking out the first five updated chapters on Inkshares.com. You can also see the new cover, courtesy of the ludicrously talented Tim Barber at Dissect Designs. 

I can’t wait for everyone to meet Angus, Gills, and the colourful cast of characters that populate this supernatural thriller. Thanks to everyone for their patience - good things come to those who wait... 

Hey everyone,

It’s hard to believe that after edits, pandemic delays, printer shutdowns, and supply chain issues, Showtime will officially be released exactly 4 weeks from today! Copies have been printed and are waiting to be read, sniffed, and cradled in your waiting arms.

If you know anyone who still wants a copy, the easiest, cheapest, and best way to ensure that it arrives on time is to order directly from Inkshares. For those of you who are local, I’ll also have stock on hand to sell and deface with my signature. As a matter of fact, take a gander at what just arrived!

GETTING YOUR INKSHARES COPIES

If you ordered directly from Inkshares, make sure you log in to your Inkshares account and double check that your shipping address is accurate, especially since some of you have moved in the past few years. Once you sign in, click your profile circle like in the pic below, then SHIPPING ADDRESS. If it’s correct, you’re golden. If not, update it so your copies don’t go to the stranger squatting in your previous residence.

E-BOOK REMINDER

If you pre-ordered an eBook, you’ll be receiving it early, around November 22nd. The reasoning behind this is to give digital readers a chunk of time to read the book and post reviews on Amazon and Goodreads so we have a head start on press for release day.

More news in the coming weeks, but that’s all for now. Thanks again for your support and patience. Let the countdown begin!

Ricky