One of the things I’ve come to learn about being a part of a book fandom is that feeling like a fan happens far beyond the moments when I’m actually reading or rereading the books. It exists just as much in all of the days in between, often spent celebrating the best moments of the past books (or grieving over the most devastating ones) and anticipating what might happen next. It’s that thrill of discovering a friend just started reading the book, or connecting with someone (in real life or online) who’s just as excited to talk about the books as I am.

Some of my best memories of the time when the Harry Potter books were still coming out happened in the years in between books when we waited and theorized and obsessed over what might be coming. Those years are as much a part of my experience with the books as the story J.K. Rowling gave us. And, in a way, that experience and my deep appreciation for it prepared me for Howler Life. I didn’t think it’d be possible to fall so in love and become so invested in another series, and then came Red Rising. When Iron Gold was announced, I knew it was only a matter of time before I’d need an outlet through which to pour my obsession. And so began Howler Life.

Reading a book is a personal journey. The experience exists in each of us in its own way.  Being part of a fandom is a shared experience, and from what I’ve learned since starting this blog and its social media channels, Red Rising has an amazing community of fans. I’m so grateful for that. I’m grateful for the Howlers I’ve encountered on social media who share my love for this story and who express it in so many amazing, creative ways. I’m grateful for the people who’ve read the updates and occasional ramblings I’ve posted here, and who comment or write in with their own ideas, questions, theories and opinions. And I’m beyond grateful for Pierce Brown for keeping the story alive and in prime condition beyond the original trilogy.

We’re headed into the week that should have been the release of Dark Age. That date has previously been pushed off to February, which is fine. For one thing, it gave Pierce Brown more time to work on the followup to Iron Gold (and write the Mustang POV that I feel certain had to be a challenge, but will be well worth the wait.) And for another, it’s given us more time to anticipate what’s going to happen next. Anticipation is the life blood of a fandom as far as I’m concerned, so I’m here for it, especially if Dark Age pays off in the end. To borrow some (devastating) words from one beloved character, take your time, Pierce Brown, we will wait.

With all of the above said, it’s been a bit since I’ve done an update on the site. Work and life has kept me busy. But to kick off my favorite season for reading, I thought it was time for a bit of an upgrade to Howler Life’s look. I hope you like the new logo and subtly adjusted color scheme. I look forward to writing more updates and random Rising musings in the coming months as we count down to Dark Age, which, judging by the title and the snaky cover, is sure to be a bucket of laughs.

And I continue to look forward to watching the Howler community grow. Words can’t truly describe how much I love being part of it (but I’ll continue to try.)

Omnis vir Lupus

Never bow.