From My Fantasy Writing Desk
The proof copy arrived this week. Finally, I can hold it in my hands! That’s always a thrill. Of Kings and Griffins is all set to publish this Thursday, October 15.
The advance praise has been heartwarming, “Master storyteller…fast-paced and compelling” -Anna Castle, award-winning author of Murder by Misrule
If you are a fan of my historical fantasies and would enjoy putting up a review on Amazon in exchange for an advance e-copy, email me quickly. There’s still a small window of time for that.
Archaeology I Enjoyed
Stealing Ancient Trade Secrets
The earliest of trade secrets and their protection. Recently, a copper production site in the Negev Desert during the Chalcolithic period (6500 years ago) revealed its secrets. First off, archaeologists found what is possibly the earliest metalworking furnace. Furthermore, they infer from the site the high value placed on the knowledge of how to create copper objects.
The workshop is far away from the mines where the ore originates, unlike historical parallels. It makes sense to process ore near the mine—unless you don’t want to reveal that process to the mining community. To create copper, you must heat the ore in an environment without oxygen—not an immediately obvious project. The shiny results of this knowledge must have seemed magical. Click here for Archaeology News Network “6,500-Year-Old Copper Workshop Uncovered In The Negev Desert’s Beer Sheva”
More Mummies and Gorgeous Paintings
Yet more painted coffins have come out of the Saqqara Necropolis. At this point, the count has risen to 59. Soon after discovery, antiquities officials opened one of the ornate coffins and revealed the mummy inside for journalists. The mummy is impressive. However, I’m guessing there are countless reasons why this isn’t a great idea from the point of view of preserving and studying the coffin and its contents. I’m sure the Egyptian officials see it as great publicity to draw tourism, if such a thing still existed in these days of covid-19. Click here for Archaeology News Network “Egypt Reveals 59 Intact 26th Dynasty Coffins Found At Saqqara Necropolis”