Necroscope News - The Official Brian Lumley Newsletter

(ONLINE VERSION)

 VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1
DECEMBER '98 / JANUARY '99

Inside This Issue....
COLUMNS: ARTICLES:
  • Enter of Your Own Free Will - by ShadoeWolfe
  • Comic book still delayed? - by ShadoeWolfe
  • NecroQuotes - by Brian Lumley
  • New Releases - by ShadoeWolfe
  • Fellow Lumlians - by Silky Lumley
  • The Source Contest - by ShadoeWolfe
  • What Will Be, Has Been - by Robb Coutinho
  • The New E-Branch Series - by ShadoeWolfe
  • Mouser's Musings - by Ralph Jessie
  • Bits and Pieces
  • McCabe's Meanderings - by Peter McCabe
  • Calendar of Events
  • - Contacts -


    Enter of your own free will... - by ShadoeWolfe
    ShadoeWolfe's news on the site
    by ShadoeWolfe Welcome once again to Necroscope News. With this issue we start a new year of the newsletter and I again want to thank all of you who have helped support this undead publication. Content providers, readers, faithful followers - all of you have helped Necroscope News grow over the past year. Thank you.

    I would be remiss if I didn't say 'Happy Holidays to One and All!' at this time of year. While the holiday season is usually filled with happiness and joy, there are those out there who don't have much reason to celebrate this year. Sickness, family trouble, death, homelessness, etc. - the list can go on for miles. Not to get too deep, but take the time to consider others this year who might be less fortunate or are going through a rough point in their life right now. Give them a call just to say hello, donate an old coat you don't use anymore, or invite some folks over for a meal if you have some extra to cook. That's what this whole season is about - giving, sharing, and selflessness. Enough said, now enjoy your holiday as best you may!

    The Newsletter. I hope everyone is happy with the new layout that was initiated last issue. I would love to just do the Web Version because of it's attractiveness, but I know a lot of you like to print out the issue and save it, so we will continue to offer both into the foreseeable future.

    The WebSite. Recent news is the addition of Amazon.co.uk to the bookstore. Now all of the visitors to the site from the UK can easily obtain Brian's British versions of his books online. Don't worry you US fanatics, Amazon.com is still available through the bookstore also. This news is also good for the collectors out there who have been looking to get the UK versions online and have been having trouble. As far as I can tell, you should have no trouble obtaining the books using your credit card online and getting them shipped to the US. Check out their shipping policies to be sure though. Do not blame me or hold me responsible if what I said above is not possible. I plead ignorance.

    Hopefully, you all like the little holiday banner I have running on the site at the top of every page. Just a little reminder to keep yourselves in the holiday spirit and uplifted. It's hard to look at Bob Eggleton's skull with a Santa hat on and not think it's cute. And you're right - if you think a skull with a Santa hat on is cute - you are as warped as I am. Isn't it great?! And in that holiday spirit, don't forget to swing by that Brian Lumley.com bookstore and pick up every book of Brian's you don't have. After all, this is the present season, right? If no one else will get them for you (my mother thinks the covers are disgusting and can't see how anyone could read them, go figure), I always say a present to yourself is the best kind. You know you'll like it, and if you spend too much - who cares? It's for you!

    As always, if anyone has any suggestions on improving the site and/or newsletter, please let us know. Email contacts can be found at the end of the newsletter and also on the site, so drop us a line when you get a chance. And don't forget to check out Brian's interview with Amazon.com. As for now, this is ShadoeWolfe signing off and we'll see you in February! Have a great New Year!
    ShadoeWolfe


    NecroQuotes - by Brian Lumley
    news from the Master himself
    Time flies, and here we are again. 

    A few things worthy of note: 

    Back in May, Phoenix, the World Horror Con, Fedogan and Bremer published A Coven of Vampires. It was done in a special, signed, slip-cased limited edition ... which went out of print almost immediately, and an edition of 1,000 hardbacks. The book is now out of print in both editions, having sold its last few copies in Monterey at the World Fantasy Con. In short, it was available for just five months. And remember, this was a book that was only available from the publisher or specialist dealers. 

    I mention it not to blow any trumpets and such, but as a reminder to any true collectors out there. A reminder that Tor have recently published The Source in hardback in an edition of just 2,000. But unlike F&B, Tor sells everywhere; if you don't get your copy now you may have a hard time finding this book in the future! (For The Source competition, see below.) 

    Incidentally, F&B won the Small Press award in Monterey. I don't think I need add how pleased I was to be right there, and to be able to shake Philip Rahman's hand as he left the podium with his Howie! (Coven has since appeared in paperback in UK.) 

    Dedications: Dave the Web, Ralph, Robb, Monte, Sarah, and Heather -- most of whom I met in Providence, and others who are old acquaintances -- should look for their names on the dedication page of Necroscope: Invaders when Tor publishes it some time around May next year. The same book will be done in UK at about the same time, under the title, E-Branch: Invaders

    The Source competition: 

    We've had a pile of responses, but only ONE winner so far! I'm unhappy that it seems so hard. But in fact, if you read the original paperback Source and compare it with the hardback (or don't even read but just turn the pages), you'll SEE the error and correction immediately! More I can't say... 

    Anyone who was at Phoenix in May will remember Keith Grant-Evans, the leader of the rock group The Downliners Sect. Keith has a new supply of the Dangerous Ground CD, with its jacket of a derailed train near a leaning signpost reading Innsmouth, the Bates Motel, and the House of Usher! I did voice-over readings on two of the tracks, Escape from Hong Kong, and Bookworm. This was really great fun! Anyone who's interested can contact Keith at 7A Cowper Road, London  SW19  1AA... 

    And that's about it for now. We're looking forward to Christmas and all the good things it brings, also to EerieCon at Niagara, (April '99), where I've no doubt we'll meet up with some of you guys. But if we don't see you there, we can always see you here next time around. 

    Cheers!
    Brian Lumley

    by Brian Lumley

    Fellow Lumlians - by Silky Lumley
    Silky's personal writings to the fans
    by Silky Lumley World Fantasy Con behind us now ... I'll save details on that and let Brian give you the bits... 

    "It's Christmas Time pretty baby and the snow is falling on the ground," as Elvis sings... 

    Well, there is no snow but hey Christmas shoppers, only 24 shopping days left until Chrissy! I've got most of Brian's toys and goodies. I still have to get Jasper something though. He usually gets a new stuffed mouse and a new ping-pong ball. (Yes ... you read correctly, a ping-pong ball. A new one because he usually has two a year and one invariably gets stepped on and crushed sometime during the year.)

    I've done my Christmas cards. Because the Royal Mail says if you want your family and friends in the States guaranteed to receive their mail you must mail by December 5. If you're sending a package surface mail you have to mail it by October 5. Good grief. God bless the postal workers. Not a job I envy, especially around the holidays. 

    Our tree is up, Christmas cake sitting on the table, puds and Devon custard ready to go, brandy snaps to make yet though. (Wonderful little crunchy confections which you can mold when soft and shape into baskets, or long slender wrapped rolls for stuffing. Filled with fruit, ice cream or whipped cream ... cholesterol lovers ... to die for!) And for the chocoholics, coated or drizzled with chocolate as well!

    Let me tell you a little about the British Christmas Cake. First off, for many Brits this is a custom to bake from scratch. I wanted to but Bri says it's not worth it. It costs a fortune and takes time. It is a fruit cake ... now hold on ... I know what you Yanks are thinking ... the dreaded fruit cake that everyone hates to receive for Christmas. Not so over here. I hate fruit cake but I eat this. I'll describe for you and you can just feel your mouth watering. 

    Luxury Christmas Cake: 3 lb. in weight: A luxury rich fruit cake with glace cherries, nuts, butter and brandy, coated in marzipan and soft icing. Made with no genetically modified ingredients and suitable for vegetarians. Even decorated with a ribbon around outside and a beautiful little decoration stuck in center. (For you Brits this is a buy. Iceland has them for £6.99 but you better hurry. They sell out fast. I've had mine for a month already!) 

    The Brits have a wonderful custom of the Christmas Cracker. Can't describe it to you without a picture but two people each hold one end of the cracker and pull, there's a loud snap (like a cap in a cap-gun) and the cracker usually pulls in half and out pops a gift. They have kits where you can make your own ... which of course means you can insert your own little goodies. Very pleasant indeed. 

    The Brits are just as big on Christmas as the Yanks. However, from what I have seen, on the private homes, they don't go all out on outside lights like we Yanks do. Sure the towns are all decked out as well as many stores but I guess it just hasn't caught on. There's plenty of spirit around though. Hey, don't forget to catch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Now that is one over-decorated house and very over-sized tree. Great Christmas music though, including Ray Charles. 

    I love to watch the favorite movies each year that I've watched forever or since they've been made in the last few years. I always watch A Christmas Carol (the 1951 classic only with Alastair Sim) on Christmas Eve. Then there's Santa Claus, The Movie, Scrooged, A Christmas Story with little Ralphie and his dream of an air-rifle and everyone continuously telling him "you'll shoot your eye out."  (I've got Bri hooked on that one.), Ernest Saves Christmas, All I Want For Christmas, White Christmas, Yes, Virginia There Is A Santa Claus, It's A Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, and of course, not to be forgotten, that hokey animated Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman which by the way they don't show over here. Got them all on tape so I can watch them at will. This year I'll be adding Jingle All The Way. I know ... lots of stuff to watch ... but I'm a full-fledged  Christmas Freak! There'll be more to watch if there are any of interest. 

    When Brian and I watched Jingle All The Way, he said to me "they can't really be like that trying to get a toy." And I responded, "bet me!" He still can't believe it. Hey, for those in my generation, remember the WWF Wrestling dolls and the Cabbage Patch dolls, then there was the dreaded Barney the Dinosaur. Last year over here it was Telly Tubbies (don't ask). Now you can find them everywhere. Let's face it folks ... most parents will do just about anything to get their child their most wanted toys ... and boy don't the manufacturers know it! 

    Well ... I've rattled on long enough and Shadoe has to type all this. In closing let me say thanks to all the fans who visit us here. Special thanks go to ShadoeWolfe for making the site as excellent as it is and maintaining it. Without him there would be no site. 

    From myself and Brian, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year! 

    Until next time... 

    Silky Lumley


    What Will Be, Has Been - by Robb Coutinho AKA Veriatus
    Veriatus lets us in on his views
    Holiday Cheer

    Season's Greetings everyone! Well, maybe I'm early, but what the heck? By the time the next article rolls around a whole new year will be upon us. As a matter of fact, it will be the last year of this decade and century! Wow. Kinda scary! Wooooooooo! Moving right along, Thanksgiving is a few days away. Everyone says that we should be thankful for all the wonderful bounty that has been brought to our tables. I imagine all you Brits out there are probably grumbling what with Thanksgiving being an American holiday celebrating, among other things, the pilgrim's emancipation from Mother England. Of course, you're probably more truly upset that you don't have the day off from work like most of us Americans. 

    So why am I thankful? Well, in the last ten years alone I've gone from reading Brian Lumley, to meeting Brian Lumley, to being inspired to write again (although, not “like” Brian Lumley - that just cannot be done). Some of you may be scratching your hairy belly's and belching, “So what?” To that I say, “Excuse you”, and “Have a breath mint.” For a kid who didn't have much of a direction in life except to play video games, watch movies, and pray for a beautiful girl to land on my roof - my life has certainly taken a change for the better. I was lost (spiritually) when I picked up the Necroscope. I read it, loved it, and suddenly, I was saved!  I discovered a brave new world to explore and learn about. Believe it or not, those books taught me a thing or two about Life. I learned about the strength that comes from knowing oneself from Harry Keogh. I learned responsibility and the use of power from Harry as well. 

    Funny thing is...I never shared this with any of my friends. I'm not saying that many of them were readers, mind you, but I just wanted something to call my own, and Brian's books were it. Now, of course, along with ShadoeWolfe and Mouser and all the fans in the newsgroups and around the world I can't tell enough people to run out and buy Brian's books. Ever since I met Brian I have discovered just how much of Brian is in his books. You see the ideals Brian believes in are all facets of the heroes created by him. I felt as though I had known Brian all along! His personality is spread throughout his books!

    OK, I'll stop. I have to admit I've even scared myself with what I've rambled here. Where do these article ideas come from, anyway? I apologize if I make absolutely no sense whatsoever. But neither does the fact that Brian Lumley isn't counted among the Stephen King's, Anne Rice's and Dean Koontz's of the world. I guess there is only room for one Brit, Clive Barker. Hey, don't color me wrong! God bless Clive Barker, he deserves the success, but no Brian Lumley?  Hello, 30 plus years? International bestsellers that number in the millions? It is nonsense! Of course, maybe I'm missing the point. Perhaps what is more important is not how many people read Brian's works, but how Brian's works inspire and affect the people who do read them. I read the entire guestbook on the brianlumley.com website. It took me a very, very long time to get through it. There were so many countries from all the over the globe responding. Every single one remarked in some language or other how Brian's tomes had made them feel. Now that was something to be thankful for.

    Happy Holidays, folks. What will be, has been.

    by Robb Coutinho

    Mouser's Musings - by Ralph Jessie AKA Titus Mouser
    Ralph Jessie has some thoughts he'd like to share...
    by Ralph Jessie THE NAUGHTY BITS...

    Well, I don't know about anyone else, but those of us Stateside just came off our yearly glut-fest, Thanksgiving! I hope you all did well over ALL HALLOWS EVE. Between the two occasions your blood ought to be in fine fiddle... you never know when a member of the Wamphyri may stop in for a quick bite...

    A while back while monitoring the newsgroup, I noticed that there were a few posts concerning the "sexual" nature of Brian's writings. There seemed to be a few folks who were concerned about it, and questioned it's place in these fictions. I, for one, don't mind a bit of steam from time to time. Also, consider that much of the "sex" used in horror is more about abuse, torture, and violence. It can also be a prime motivational device, causing a protagonist to act in a particular way due to a love relationship. A loved one threatened can certainly be an impetus to action.

    Take Harry Keogh, incredibly strong willed and wildly talented; it certainly took ALL of B.J.'s wiles to beguile and control the Necroscope for as long as she did. I think that Harry's sense of loss over his family and the void it left opened him up for just the kind of "comfort" B.J. more than willingly supplied.

    To the Wamphyri, we are just a food source... cattle... but taking into account their incredible aptitude for cruelty and torture, do you really think that such as they would stop at your "naughty bits". Time and again we've seen how they relish inflicting any kind of pain they can conceive. They ARE lust... for blood, for flesh, for sex. They are also tenacious. Think of Thibor, sending out his proto-tentacles and finding the unconscience woman in the field, leaving something of himself in her to insure his perpetuation.

    Khai the Khemite was turned against his homeland by the insane acts of the Pharaoh Khasathut. First, having his Mother and sister brutally raped and impaled upon spikes, his Father murdered, and his brother castrated. Then witnessing the perverse ritual of the Pharaoh's brides and the plan's Khasathut had for Khai himself. These are the that fueled Khai hatred and made him escape, vowing to bring down the mad tyrant. But later, the sexual encounter with Mhyna (the woman who helps Khai escape with her barge) is of a healing nature.

    Remember, we're reading horror stories... dark fantasies... they are supposed to stir us up a bit, disturb us... horrify us! What could be more horrifying than loss of control over one's self. Have we done anything less as a species in our studies of "lesser" species. In the name of science we've poked, prodded, dissected, cross-bred and any number of things to other creatures. Should we expect anything else of a species that may consider themselves superior to us? I don't think so.

    Okay, so you say HPL didn't use these kind of devices in his stories. Well, from all accounts the old gentleman was pretty repressed. Still, HPL hinted at decadent inbred families, cross breeding with aliens, and various other similar things. I think that Brian has used sexual content, both natural and perversely otherwise, to move his characters and stories in the directions they needed to move. But, it is just one of his many devices and not one that he uses gratuitously or excessively. Of course some of these passages will sometimes offend you, maybe even make you stop reading for a moment and thank the Great Old Ones that these things aren't happening to you! Just keep in mind that you are only reading a HORROR STORY!

    Until next time, be safe, be well....

    Happy Holidays,

    Titus Mouser

    P.S. - Having had the pleasure of meeting Brian and the lovely Silky Lumley, I can tell you he is not the MONSTER you may imagine... really...


    McCabe's Meanderings
    Peter plumbs the depths of Brian's work
    Legends and Myths

    Good morning, good afternoon, and good evening. Welcome to the third installment of the Necroscope Newsletter. As this is the first issue of Volume Two and my third article I wanted to make this a good one. I hope you enjoy.

    As I said this is my third article for the newsletter, and I've loved writing for it. When I was pondering what this article should be about, the significance of the number three came to mind. Over the years this number has taken on some religious connotations. Of course, I am referring to the Holy Trinity. The Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost. I wonder if in the world of the Necroscope the holy trinity would be the Faethor, Shaitan, and Harry's ghost. Upon considering what I wanted to write about and the religious connotations concerning the number three, I hit upon the meat of this article's premise. At the end of the last article I hinted that I would compare Shaitan with someone else, have you guessed who yet? That's right, Satan. Upon reading the story of Shaitan, many similarities between the two become evident. Because of these similarities an interesting theory about the world of the Necroscope and Satan's role in that world formed in my mind.

    WARNING PLOTS REVEALED AFTER THIS POINT. AS ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT YOU ENTER OF YOUR OWN FREE WILL.

    I would like to get the most obvious similarity out of the way immediately, this being the similarities in their names. "What is in a name"? Well, a lot actually, the two names are strikingly close. In fact all one has to do is drop the H and I from Shaitan and they will be left with none other than Satan. "A rose by any other name will still smell as sweet" or maybe as sour in this case. Names and particular words are very important in Brian Lumley's work. Readers have seen this in many stories written by Lumley. Such as Titus Crow, in many stories numerology plays an important role in Titus discovering the truth or defeating an enemy. I do not know enough about numerology yet to play with the numbers, but if someone out there does, then see what the numbers turn up for names such as Shaitan, Satan, or Lucifer. I wouldn't be too surprised if there are some coincidences between them.

    Now that we have that out of the way, let's delve into the history of Shaitan. Upon reading his history the reader discovers that at one point Shaitan was part of some kind of all knowing higher collective that reside in the Möbius continuum.  The collective seem to act as regulators in the universe. "But like all blooms it withered on the vine." Shaitan was dispelled from the collective to become an outcast. He lands on Starside, naked and alone, devoid of all memories save that he was once a part of something more and was expelled. As he walks along he comes to a swamp, when he looks at himself in the murky water he comes to the conclusion that the people shunned him because of his great beauty. He is prideful, which by the way sounds familiar to someone else.  Pride is the sin that cast Satan from Heaven, hurtled down to hell as God's punishment. Once in Starside Shaitan has no idea what he should do, but he doesn't have to ponder long; destiny chooses his fate and the fate of so many others in one fell swoop. The collective in the Möbius continuum deposits Harry's vampire pestilent filled body in the swamp. Shaitan approaches Harry's body and the vampire spores infest his body making him Wamphyri, surrogate father to all other vampires to come after him. Once Wamphyri, he becomes like a God to the normal people of Starside. This power added with his pride makes him become a force of pure evil in two worlds. Most humans and vampires alike eventually fear him, yet again very similar to the story of Lucifer. Satan has too much pride and is hurtled out of Heaven to rule over Hell and Earth and over all things evil.

    Shaitan and Satan's histories are very similar, and because of this an interesting spin on history came to fruition in my mind. Questions that should be pondered are things like how long has the gate between Starside and Earth been open, which has been for quite some time, more than likely.  We know that Shaitan is at least 5000 years old, long enough for legends to spread. Next question: how long have legends of Satan existed?  Have you discovered where I am leading yet?

    Well here it is. Could it be that in the world of the Necroscope that Satan is merely the recollection of legends about Shaitan from Starside? It is easy to assume that in Starside where Shaitan reigns, legends and stories about his creation would be spread. Doesn't he eventually take the name of Shaitan the Unborn? To a normal human Shaitan would be like an all-powerful demon. An evil cruel demon who feeds on the blood and souls of people, and a demon who seemingly cannot be destroyed. The only thing that seems to hurt him is light. For quite some time light has been associated with God. To the humans maybe it would seem as if only God could hurt the demon. Finally, what if one of these people went through the gate here to Earth? Eventually they would tell stories about the horrible demon Shaitan. He is the fallen one, the Unborn, he who feeds on the blood of people. It is not a long stretch then to believe that over the millennia and through the countless recounts of the story that the name might accidentally start as Shaitan and end up now as Satan.

    We are left with a plausible idea in the world of the Necroscope. Satan is merely the whispered memories of Shaitan from Starside. Certainly they have many similarities. As always this poesy is merely mind fodder, but it is always fun to ponder. I hope you enjoyed this stroll through the dark alleys of my mind. And 'til next issue, while you are reading Lumley, Lovecraft, or what other horror writers you enjoy, whenever you feel a chill or the hairs on the back of your neck rise, never look behind you, for who knows what might be there?

    by Peter McCabe

    New Releases
    what's out and on the horizon
    by ShadoeWolfe
    Latest release? Necroscope III: The Source is out now in hardcover. Done in a limited edition - there were only 2,000 copies printed, so it is sure to sell out fast. If you haven't picked up your copy, be sure to get it soon. If you get it soon, you can still enter the contest to win some free books from Brian. For more information on that, take a look at the article on the contest or swing by the site and look on the latest news page.
    Also just out - The UK version of A Coven of Vampires has just been released by New English Library, Hodder & Stoughton. The US version done by Fedogan and Bremer has sold out, so this is your only chance to get this collection of some of Brian's rarer pieces. if you are having trouble getting hold of it, you can order online through the site from Amazon.co.uk. Look for it!
    Already out? The original House of Doors novel has been reissued in paperback with new cover art at the same time as it's sequel, Maze of Worlds in hardcover (released in the UK under the title: The House of Doors: Second Visit). You might have missed the original as it was hard to come by in the bookstores, but you definitely don't want to miss it this time around. (The paperback House of Doors, Book One, has apparently done well in its new jacket. It will be reissued by Tor in May, along with paperback Maze of Worlds.)
    Unfortunately, A Coven of Vampires, a collection of vampire shorts published by Fedogan and Bremer, has sold out. With only 1,100 copies total printed, it took a short 5 months to clear the shelves. if you were lucky enough to grab this beautifully done book, you have a rare work that many people will envy in the coming years. 

    For more info on these books or how to obtain them, please jump over to the site and look in the latest news page for details.

    Cover art - House of Doors,Maze of Worlds: Peter Bollinger - Coven (US):Bob Eggleton - Coven (UK):George Underwood

    The Source Contest
    All I have to do is find an error and I win?
    Can you think of an easier contest? Buy or borrow a book. Find the paperback version that you already have. Flip through the pages and find an obvious printing error. Send an email to Silky with the error pointed out. Be one of the first ten correct entries, win two Brian Lumley books. Where do I sign up?!

    That's all there is to it, but there's not much time left to do it. The contest ends on December 15, which leaves only 15 days to get that email to Silky. The correct email that is. I'll give you one hint on the answer. The dedication is different in the hardcover from the one in the paperback. This is NOT the printer's error we are talking about. This is NOT the correct answer. Now, go to work. here are the details:

    PRIZES (10):

    The 10 winners will each receive 2 books.
  • World first British edition hardcover of Necroscope IV: DEADSPEAK, signed by Brian Lumley
  • PLus, one UK paperback in the Primal Land or Hero Series (author's choice), also signed
  • RULES:
  • In the earlier paperback editions of THE SOURCE, there was a glaring printer's error. I mean a real BIG one -- not a simple spelling error, missing period, or anything like that. It has been corrected in the new hardcover. The first TEN correct solutions to reach Silky after TOR issues the hardcover, will win books as above.
  • Email your answer to Silky at the following address: silky@brianlumley.com - YOU MUST INCLUDE YOUR SOLUTION TO THE CORRECTION, YOUR NAME, AND EMAIL ADDRESS IN THE BODY OF THE EMAIL
  • As stated before - the first TEN CORRECT answers to reach Silky win - timing is everything - if there is a problem with your mail server or the Internet that day - sorry.
  • Closing date for all entries December 15. Winner(s) to be announced on December 20.
  • You may enter as many times as you wish - no limit - but you can only win once
  • A note by Brian: "On comparing the earlier TOR paperback book (The Source) with the new hardback, the original printer's error shouldn't be difficult to find. Good hunting!"
  • DISCLAIMERS:
  • Closing date for all entries December 15. Winner(s) to be announced on December 20.
  • Once you have been notified of your winning entry, you will then be given instructions on what to do. To receive your free books, you will need to pay postage for surface mail from the UK, as these books will be coming directly from Brian. The books will cost you nothing, only the shipping charges.
  • The winners' names will be posted in the newsletter, in the issue following the completion of the contest. Names will be withheld if the contestant wishes them to be, but you must let Silky know that when you send your entry in, otherwise, they will be posted.
  • If Brian or Silky Lumley is unable to contact the winner(s) or if the winner(s) fails to claim or accept his/her prize within 30 calendar days of notification, the prize is forfeited and no substitute winner will be chosen. Participants in this promotion agree to be bound by the official rules and decision of Brian and Silky Lumley.
  • by submitting an entry in the contest, I am agreeing to the terms and rules set forth on this page.

    - You must include name and email address in body of message and the solution to the contest -

    ENTER CONTEST
    I WANT TO WIN!
    NO THANKS
    I HATE FREEBIES
     
    by ShadoeWolfe

    The New E-Branch Series
    what to expect
    by ShadoeWolfe The latest installment to the Necroscope Saga is coming closer with every month. The first novel is done and ready for release while the second is being worked on as we speak. And a third - soon to follow. With this impending release, questions are raised. "Will Harry be back in the story?" "I thought all the vampires were destroyed at the end of Bloodwars. How can there be anymore stories?" And the ever popular "when is the Necroscope movie coming out?" Sorry there Robb, wrong discussion, similar topic.

    In answer to the first question, I would have to say a resounding 'no' is in order. Harry is one with the cosmos, and while the most popular character ever in the saga, I don't think a return trip from the continuum is possible. Or is it...? We'll just have to see, but judging from the shout line of the new book, "For the new Millennium, the World needs a new Necroscope," I would have to say that implies little or no sight of Harry Keogh in the new trilogy. Don't worry Harry, we'll never forget you.

    I just saw a posting on the newsgroup, alt.books.brian-lumley, regarding the second question. True, the Wamphyri were destroyed in the ending of Bloodwars, and Starside/Sunside was returned to it's normal rotational pattern, not to mention the closing of the Gates into and out of Starside/Sunside. So the question remains then - how are there any vampires left? Harry and E-Branch destroyed all of them on Earth, right? At least that's what we're led to believe, but we must always remember one thing about the vampire, and the Wamphyri in particular: They are tenacious and their will to live and survive is immense. With that thought in mind, I think we can all conclude that they were NOT all destroyed...just the ones that made themselves prominent and noticeable. I do believe we all can recall that to be seen as immortal is to arise suspicion, and thus end the reign one could have on Earth. Indeed, how many could be hiding out there right now, just waiting....?

    Can I give anymore clues to the new series? One thing I can say is that it will be like nothing else we have ever seen from Brian. Sure, there will be gore, ESPionage, spirits, monsters, heroes and villains - but that never changes. We will see new characters like Jake Cutter (oops, did I drop a name?) and new enemies (or friends, depending on your preferences) like the Creechur, but more I cannot say. May is only 5 short months away, so save up those pennies and get ready to grab E-Branch: Invaders (Necroscope: Invaders in the US) when it hits the shelves! And we can talk about that movie thing at a later time and date - like when it happens.


    Comic Book Still Delayed
    Can we all say "Enough already?!"
    Caliber Comics started a new series in February of this year: VAMPIRE WORLD, beginning with THE SOURCE. No.1 and No. 2 are both available NOW. No. 3 is still in the final stages. Big holdups between artist and scripter have delayed this much-delayed third issue! You can contact Caliber at: www.calibercomics.com US Order Direct by calling: 1-800-22-COMIC. 
    SORRY -- THERE IS NO NEWS ON THIS FRONT AT THIS TIME. 

    What can we do about this? Absolutely nothing. I know all of you out there were eagerly awaiting this series, especially if you had seen the earlier comics done by Malibu a few years back. Even if you hadn't, the whole idea of having Necroscope in a visual form to look at just has to get you going. With Caliber in trouble right now, the third issue might never see the light of day, but we can hope. Something else we can all hope for is that another comic company comes along and wants to do the series right. You know, in color, big-time promotion, and the ability to have the comic in every local bookstore out there. Get those letters going to the big names in the comic book world: DC Comics and Marvel. Maybe if they get enough letters, they won't be able to ignore us! Well, like I said, we can all hope.

    There is some great news regarding the Comic though, the artwork is for sale! That's right, Mike Perkins is selling original sketches from the first issue of the comic, so if you are wanting your own piece of Brian Lumley memorabilia, now's your chance! I must say, I have a page hanging on my wall, framed very nicely - and it is immaculate. You will not be disappointed. Order now!! News on the artwork available is on the news page of the site.

    by ShadoeWolfe

    Bits and Pieces
    Nowhere else to be but here
    info courtesy of Silky Lumley
    • Brian has an interview online about his writing and other bits at Amazon.com
    •  
    • Titus Crow Omnibus Volume One in trade paper is scheduled by Tor for February 1999. It contains: The Burrowers Beneath and The Transition of Titus Crow. 
    •  
    • The first of the new Necroscope novels is scheduled for release in hardcover, May 1999, by Hodder & Stoughton  in UK. UK TITLE: E-BRANCH:INVADERS. Tentative publication date for Tor, US, hardcover, May 1999. US TITLE: NECROSCOPE: INVADERS.
    •  
    • Necronomicon Press and W. Paul Ganley: Publisher are combining to bring out a new edition of Brian Lumley's poetry collection, Ghoul Warning. This edition will feature some added material as well as new illustrations by Donald Schank. If interested in this book, please include your name, address, and email if possible, and contact one of the following individuals:
    • W. Paul Ganley: Publisher
      PO Box 149
      Buffalo, NY 14226-0149
      wpaulg@aol.com
      Marc A. Michaud, Necronomicon Press
      PO Box 1304
      W. Warwick, RI 02893
      marc@necropress.com

      One of them will let you know as soon as expected publishing date and price is established. You can also swing back by here and find out also. 

    • The CD in production by the Downliners Sect where Brian has done two voice-overs  BOOKWORM and ESCAPE FROM HONG KONG is now available. General Orders of Certified, Numbered copies from:
    • M. Birch, Birch Records
      14 Dickinson Avenue
      Croxley Green, Rickmansworth,
      Herts. WD3 3EX
      ENGLAND
      From UK £11.50. From outside UK: £12.00 Sterling or International Money order equivalent. Prices include postage.
    • Brian's short story, written in 1976, "The Vehicle" has been published for the first time in it's entirety in LORE, Vol. 1, No. 8, Autumn 1997. If you are interested in purchasing a copy contact: loredigest@earthlink.net
    •  
    • Fedogan and Bremer did a Lumley book ... A COVEN OF VAMPIRES. Bob Eggleton provided an interior cartouche, not to mention the jacket cover. There was a 100 copy signed/limited edition, and a 1,000 copies of the hardback edition. (Coven was released at  World Horror Con, Phoenix, in May. 5 months later at World Fantasy Con, Monterey, it went out of print.)
    • August 97 - SINGERS OF STRANGE SONGS - Anthology containing three pieces of work by Brian plus 11 Mythos stories by other authors. "City Out of Time" (Poem) "Cement Surroundings," and "Spaghetti." Chaosium publisher. You can
    •  order at chaosium@chaosium.com

    Calendar of Events
    Past and Upcoming events
    1997
    • January
      • Titus Crow (Volume I) (US Hardcover TOR) released
    • June
      • Necroscope: Resurgence The Lost Years Vol. II  (US paperback TOR) released
    • July
      • Titus Crow Volume II (US Hardcover TOR) released
    • August
      • SINGERS OF STRANGE SONGS (Chaosium publisher) released - order:chaosium@chaosium.com
      • In His Own Write BRIAN LUMLEY: NECROSCRIBE (Produced by NecronomiCon Press in conjunction with the NecronomiCon Convention) released - order: http://www.necropress.com
      • The Compleat Crow (UK NEL Hodder & Stoughton) released
    • October
      • Titus Crow Volume III (US Hardcover TOR) released
    • December
      • Saturday, December 6, BRIAN LUMLEY BOOK SIGNING IN LONDON at Forbidden Planet
      • The House of Doors: SECOND VISIT (UK NEL Hodder & Stoughton) released
    1998
    • February
      • Necroscope comic book No. 1 released
    • May
      • Thursday May 7- Sunday May 10 - Brian Lumley was Guest of Honor at World Horror Convention in Phoenix and was presented the Grand Master Award of the genre
      • MAZE OF WORLDS (sequel to House of Doors) (US Hardcover TOR) released at the World Horror Convention in Phoenix, AZ
      • The House of Doors (US TOR paperback) re-issued with a new jacket at the same time as the sequel Maze of Worlds
      • A Coven of Vampires (Fedogan and Bremer limited hardback) released at World Horror Convention
      • Necroscope comic book No. 2 released
    • July
    • October
      • UK paperback of A Coven of Vampires released
      • UK paperback of House of Doors: Second Visit released
    • November
      • Necroscope III: The Source released by TOR in hardcover
    1999
    • February
      • Titus Crow Volume I scheduled for release in trade paper from Tor
    • April
      • April 16-18, 1999 - Eeriecon One - a fantasy, horror and science fiction convention

      • Fallside Resort, Niagara Falls, New York - International Guest of Honor - Brian Lumley
      • Ghoul Warning to be released, hopefully at EerieCon, Niagara.
    • May
      • New Necroscope novel E-BRANCH: INVADERS scheduled for release in hardcover by Hodder & Stoughton, UK - US TITLE: NECROSCOPE: INVADERS from TOR
    never forget again when

    Contacts
    who they are and where to reach them
    email your favorite or your least favorite columnist To finish off this newsletter, we bring you the people involved. If you have a question for anyone, please email them and let them know about it.
    Brian Lumley  brian@brianlumley.com Robb Coutinho (Veriatus) Veriatus@aol.com
    Silky Lumley  silky@brianlumley.com Ralph Jessie (Mouser) titusmouser@email.msn.com
    Dave McDougle (ShadoeWolfe) shadoe@brianlumley.com Peter McCabe necro1@mindspring.com

    All Material Contained Herein is Copyright © 1998 Brian Lumley
    Not to be reprinted or reused in any form, print or digital, without permission