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June 1, 2006
I just completed a fun signing here in Sacramento with New York Times bestselling author John Lescroart (The Hunt Club), where we were relating to the audience our trials and tribulations of attempting to boil a thriller into the confines of a short story. We were there promoting the release of James Patterson's anthology, THRILLER. Other such signings are happening this weekend across the country! Check with your local bookstores!
But moving on, there is another book coming out this month: my latest novel, BLACK ORDER will be hitting shelves in a little over three weeks. And as promised, I've included here an early glimpse of a Q&A from my publishers, where some of the topics raised in the upcoming book are discussed.
Do you anticipate any debates arising in response to the controversial theories of Evolution, Creationism (and your personal take on Intelligent Design) set forth in your new novel, BLACK ORDER?
In fact, I have already heard rumblings from several colleagues in the field of evolutionary biology (one of my studies in college). All know my personal stand that evolution is well supported and a real force in nature. As a veterinarian, trained in the anatomy and physiology of a wide range of animals, from tarantulas to horses, I’ve had my hands deep in the stuff of life. To me, evolution was as plain as the difference between a Chihuahua and a Great Dane. In fact, one of the reasons I began formulating this novel was an objection against the trend to stifle scientific thought, specifically the banning at certain IMAX theaters of films that portray evolution in a positive light.
So it has come as a shock to many folks at the conclusions I’ve reached in BLACK ORDER, employing some of the cutting edges of scientific thought, specifically along the lines of quantum physics (like proving scientifically how prayer may work). And I welcome any debate on the matter. It is only through such deliberations—heated and otherwise—that new ideas can be forged.
You’ve dedicated much of your career to the health, healing and well-being of animals – how do you, as a veterinarian, feel about the genetic experimentation that is one of the foundations of BLACK ORDER’s plot?
With my background as a veterinarian and animal advocate, that’s probably not difficult to guess. I think our own humanity can be judged by how well we care for those who depend on us.
In this era of new enemies, why…Nazis?
This came about from an article about developing quantum computers. Only lately—in the past decade—have practical applications been drawn from the fields of quantum physics. Yet, the initial theories arose back at the turn of the century, from the work of Max Planck, the father of quantum theory. Almost simultaneously, Einstein was formulating his theory of relativity. So why did Einstein’s theories lead so quickly to the first atomic bomb, yet it’s taken until today to seek out practical, real-world applications for quantum theory?
One answer is the Nazis.
During WWII, the Nazis were late at developing any atomic weaponry because they placed less credence on the theories of Einstein—as he was a Jew. Instead, they pursued a different track, one supported by someone with solid roots in the German Fatherland: Max Planck’s quantum theory. And some of the newest historical research suggests that the Nazis, buried in secret bunkers, had achieved some significant and amazing successes. But to reveal those now would ruin many of the surprises in BLACK ORDER.
Break-neck thrillers are traditionally snapped up by male readers – but you have a huge female following. What’s the appeal?
For decades, the male action hero has dominated the domain of adventure thrillers. The role of women was relegated to the damsel in distress or the romantic foil. In my novels, I’ve always attempted to even the playing field, to create strong female characters that are as integral to the resolution to the central conflict as any of the men. Yet, at the same time, I don’t ignore the dynamism of such a relationship, both physically and emotionally. What is an adventure without a thread of romantic conflict? It’s the stuff of great story!
Here at William Morrow, we often call you the “Indiana Jones” of publishing, because of the adventures you plunge into while researching your novels. What thrill-rides did you experience while plotting BLACK ORDER?
While I certainly would like to claim to be some adventurous novelist in the tradition of Hemingway, in reality my adventures can be best described as misadventures. Whether it’s getting trapped in a cave, or coming close to stabbing myself on one of the most venomous spiny fishes in the world, or swimming accidentally in a pool shared by a crocodile, all these “adventures” eventually become incorporated in one of my novels. Just a couple months ago, a shark researcher invited me to dive at his facility in the Caribbean. I’m still debating whether to take him up—mostly for his sake, I think.
In your “Author’s Note: Truth or Fiction,” at the end of BLACK ORDER, you question, “Where are we headed?” So…where are we headed?
I don’t think progress can ever be truly stopped—it is as inexorable as evolution itself. As I mentioned above, our exploration of quantum theories is beginning to open doorways leading to new advances. Like the quantum computer, for one. But more than that, it’s opening doorways deep into the past, going back to the origin of life, to the first spark of all. And as much as this is a journey inward, it’s equally a journey outward, toward the universe as a whole. I think we’re heading into one of the most exciting times—where science will push boundaries, where our humanity will be tested, and where new frontiers will open.
And where is Sigma Force headed next?
Into an adventure like no other! But of course to tell more, I’d have to kill you.
May 29, 2006
Talk about "latest" news...I just heard moments ago that MAP OF BONES was nominated for the 2006 Barry Award for Best Thriller. Here is a link to Deadly Pleasures Magazine for a full list of award nominees in all the categories: BARRY AWARDS.
May 26, 2006
Just a fast reminder that the BIG anthology hits stands officially May 30th...but some stores already have the book on shelves. AND I'll be signing and talking about this book with New York Times mega-bestseller John Lescroart on June 1st (Barnes & Noble) and June 2nd (Borders) here in Sacramento. For details click on "Appearances and Signings" page. And later in the month, I'll be doing the same with award-winning author J.A. Konrath at Books-a-Million in Niles, Illinois (outside Chicago). Other authors will be doing events across the country in the first weeks of June.
And this just in: At these launch events, you'll get a free THRILLER t-shirt as a gift with purchase (while supplies last)!!! So don't miss out!
May 21, 2006
As promised, I thought I'd share not only the names of the top contest winners, but also a picture of yours truly with the winners. The Grand Prize winner was Jessica Townsend (pictured on the left), who came up with the correct answers within hours of posting the contest on the website. And hard on her heels was Alex Taylor (pictured on the right). The two were kind enough to meet me in Jacksonville, Florida, for a fundraising event there, where I was able to get this photo.
Also at this same fundraiser, I ran into a pair of fellow members of the International Thriller Writers (and good friends). Below I'm posed with Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author of The Templar Legacy (pictured on the far left) and one of my all-time favorite thriller writers, David Morrell (in the center), whose latest book Creepers was one of the best novels of the past year.
Lastly I was also in Washington, DC, this past weekend for the big book trade show, Book Expo America, and I took a half day to visit Gray, Painter, and the rest of Sigma at their new digs below the Smithsonian Castle. For those who haven't visited the "Castle," here is a picture I took of the place during this trip.
Okay enough sight-seeing...coming up in the next week, I'll be posting a long Q&A about BLACK ORDER. So much more to come!
In the meantime, the James Patterson anthology THRILLER (which includes a story of Kowalski from Ice Hunt, where he becomes entangled in a Sigma Force operation, much to his horror) is about a week away from publication. So far it has garnered many starred reviews and will be prominently on display in bookstores across the country. If you want a more personal review, hound and harrass Susan (Suetu) on the discussion board for details. She got an advanced copy signed by over a dozen of the authors who contributed stories (she was also my tour guide in D.C.).
Until June 1st...all the best,
Jim
May 15, 2006
Freshly back from Jacksonville, Florida, where I attended a fund-raiser and literary event titled "Much Ado About Books," where I had a wonderful time!
And while I was gone, all the winners to the contest came flying into the mailbox! I'll be posting a picture of yours truly posed with the winner and first runner-up in the coming days. I also have 14 other folks who were fast enough with solving the riddles below to win special prizes. And I thought I'd have to give some clues to help winnow out a winner to the contest ~! Man, do you guys know the books. I'll have to make the next contest even harder!
For now, I'll leave the answers to the riddles under wraps for anyone that might want to still take a crack at it.
On other news, MAP OF BONES has managed to crack the Top Ten lists across the country, from stores like Barnes & Noble to many city newspapers (The Washington Post, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Bradenton Herald, Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette, Grand Forks Herald, etc.). And it even climbed to #8 on the New York Times list.
As to the anthology titled THRILLER (which contains a Sigma Force short story), a special website has opened for this massive volume of great short stories. They will even be posting a few of the short stories for free downloads. And they're running a contest where the lucky winner will receive a copy of the book signed by ALL the authors in the anthology. Here is a link to that site: THRILLER WEBSITE.
And the latest news on BLACK ORDER is that the novel has been chosen by Book Sense as one of their Book Sense Notable Selections for July! And coming up on June 1st, I'll be posting a Q&A about the upcoming book...so stay tuned!
May 9, 2006: THE CONTEST!
Okay, here we go!
The Grand Prize: A complete set of signed and fingerprinted hardback editions of my books...including Black Order. For those keeping track, that's five books (Amazonia, Ice Hunt, Sandstorm, Map of Bones, and Black Order). I've never done this with any of the thrillers. Five books, along with fingerprints from the five digits of my right hand. A one-of-a-kind set of books!
And there will be a few runner-up prizes, too!
About the contest: As Map of Bones is a story about a treasure hunt across the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, I thought I'd make this contest a bit of a hunt to....a scavenger hunt across the Seven Books of James Rollins.
How to win:
There are three parts to this contest:
PART ONE: Match the letter of each clue below to the specific book it references.
PART TWO: Answer the clue question
PART THREE: Take the first letter of each clue answer in Part Two to unscramble a major character's name.
The first person with a complete set of correct answers to all three parts--book titles, clue answers, and unscrambled name--wins the Grand Prize (email me at the "EMAIL JAMES" link at the homepage of the website).
Here are the SEVEN clues:
A. I was invited on a private tour of the plane below, as it's featured prominently in which book? What is the name of this plane I'm standing in front of?
B. In this book, there is a picture of the the species Arvense. What is the genus name for this species?
C. In this novel, someone loses his eyeglasses, but he doesn't miss them. Who is he?
D. Science plays a large part in my novels. Which story does the unique breeding of bees play a role? What is the name for their unique breeding?
E. Which novel do the initials SCV reveal the depth of the threat to our heroes. Who recognizes the significance of these letters?
F. In this book, the name of a Dickens's character is used to describe someone who causes much havoc, including dispatching the book's nemesis. Who is this Dickens's character?
G. Many languages appear in the various books. Which novel features the language below? And what is the translation?
So there you go! Name the books, solve the clues, unscramble the name! Let the games begin! And GOOD LUCK!
May 8, 2006:
So much to relate, so little time...!
First, a huge and hearty THANK YOU for everyone who picked up a copy of MAP OF BONES this past week. The book has debuted at #11 on the New York Times bestseller list, the news of which still has me reeling (or maybe it was the bottle of champagne my editor sent me). Anyway, the book has hit many top ten lists (at Waldenbooks, Barnes&Noble, Publishers Weekly, even in Canada on the Globe and Mail's weekly national list). So again I owe everyone a big thanks, and I appreciate all the letters of late from new readers and those who have followed me since Subterranean was published eight years ago (has it really been THAT long?!?).
Secondly, I promised a contest....and it's about to get underway. In fact, it should be up either tonight or tomorrow! So start your engines revving!
Thirdly, for those who wondered whatever happened to Kowalski after the end of Ice Hunt, you can find out in a short story that is a part of James Patterson's anthology, THRILLER. The book has already garnered a STARRED review in Publishers Weekly, and I just was passed the four-star review from Romantic Times Book Review. Here is the review (I highlighted the line that I especially loved to read <grin>):
THRILLER (Anthology)
THRILLER: STORIES TO KEEP YOU UP ALL NIGHT
James Patterson, editor
Mira
Four stars
What if a group of popular, award-winning thriller writers formed an organization and subsequently created a volume of short stories encompassing the genre's many variations? The International Thriller Writers became fact in 2004, and now their collective effort is also a reality.
Though there are many gems in this 30-story volume, James Siegel's "Empathy," a cautionary tale about taking things--- or people --- at face value is a standout. So is James Rollins' "Kowalski's in Love," a wryly comic, terse take on germ warfare and jungle love. And M. Diane Vogt's "Surviving Toronto" provides a thought-provoking, chilling scenario of love gone wrong and its consequences.
Other well-known authors include Heather Graham Alex Kava, M.J. Rose, Katherine Neville, Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child and David Morrell.
As in any anthology, some stories are stronger than others, but the good news is that there's probably something here to suit every taste. Here's hoping volume two is on its way. (Jun., 576 pp., $24.95)
So I hope you check out the book...it hits shelves June 1st!
THEN coming at the end of the same month is the next big book, BLACK ORDER. Publishers Weekly has this to say about the novel: This is Cussler and Ludlum territory with a dash of Dan Brown, sure to please devotees of any of these authors.
I hope everyone enjoys what's to come. In two weeks, I'll be posting an extensive Q&A about the upcoming novel...so stay tuned!
April 25, 2006
Map of Bones just hit stands in paperback! And as I mentioned earlier in the month, there is going to be a contest. I was supposed to post it today, but last Saturday, something pretty special happened to me, and I wanted to reconfigure the contest around that event. BUT I must get permission first...so the contest is delayed by a day or two while I await the okay.
I can only promise that the contest will be well worth the wait!
April 10, 2006
Just a quickie. If anyone is interested in hearing the radio advertisement that will be airing on Sirius radio stations, click here: Map of Bones Radio Ad!
April 4, 2006
It's almost time again. The paperback release of Map of Bones is just three weeks away. Coinciding with its release, I'm going to run a small informal CONTEST. But the prize is not small: a complete set of signed and fingerprinted hardback editions of my books...including Black Order. For those keeping track, that's five books that were released in hardback (Amazonia, Ice Hunt, Sandstorm, Map of Bones, and Black Order). I've never done this with any of the thrillers. Five books, along with fingerprints from the five digits of my right hand. A one-of-a-kind set of books!
Here's an advanced clue to solving the upcoming contest: I do make mistakes.
So while you ponder that cryptic statement, onto other news. Black Order received its first official national review this week. It's always a bit nerve-wracking waiting to see how a book you've sweated blood over and spent way too many nights writing from sundown to sun-up fares with readers. But before I get to that, I wanted to thank all the booksellers who went out of their way to hunt me down and share their enthusiam for this latest book (based on reading the advanced readers edition). Such comments are most heartily appreciated!
I also learned this week that the Doubleday Book Club, Bookspan, and Book-of-the-Month will all be carrying Black Order as a featured alternate in their clubs. Additionally, while the books are currently selling in 24 countries abroard, for the first time, the books will be appearing in the UK and Australia markets (Map of Bones will be out in paperback in July there).
And speaking of foreign markets, Ice Hunt (retitled Mission Arktis) climbed to the #1 position on Germany's Amazon site and continues to remain there, marking its second full week at that lofty position (and by the way, the #2 spot is the German paperback release of The Da Vinci Code).
So back to that first review of Black Order:
From Booklist
The globe-trotting adventurers of Sigma Force, that elite American special-ops team, return in this high-powered thriller. The story begins cryptically. In Nepal, a strange plague has struck a remote Himalayan monastery, and a Nazi swastika is found on a cave wall. In Denmark, someone is buying up rare historical documents connected to Victorian scientists (for instance, Charles Darwin's family Bible), and the purchaser is desperate enough to kill for his prizes. In South Africa, a mythological beast is apparently alive and well and preying on wildlife. The author interweaves these stories, following the Sigma Force team members as they risk their lives to get to the heart of one of humankind's greatest mysteries: the origins of life itself. Rollins keeps getting better with every novel, and his fast-paced thrillers are feasts for the imagination. Why Hollywood hasn't snapped his books up yet is a mystery, but it's doubtful any big-screen version could capture the author's gung-ho enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity. If you like all-stops-out, high-concept adventure, this one's for you. David Pitt
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
I think I owe Mr. Pitt a very large pitcher of the beer.
Until April 25th (the shelf date for Map of Bones in paperback...and the new contest), all the best...
**
March 3rd, 2006
Be prepared! This past month has been busy consulting with the good folks at HarperCollins where we've been discussing some exciting material for the website. Starting in about 3 months, the site will be revamped with new interactive material, including a blog, where I'll be reporting on the road from Houston to Anchorage, with photos and links to my journey across the U.S. And come next fall...through Greece, Turkey, and Egypt. I hope to be able to capture a little of this odyssey for visitors to the site, and I expect that we'll see a few of those spots in future books.
A reader asked about foreign editions to the various books. Here are the latest covers in German:
 
These are the covers for Ice Hunt and Map of Bones. Both books are selling very well in German. In fact, Ice Hunt (Mission Arktis) has spent the past week in the top ten titles selling on Amazon.com Germany.
And speaking of that very popular German edition, one of the characters from Ice Hunt, one Seaman Joe Kowalski, will be having a solo adventure in a short story collection coming out June 1st, titled Thrillers: Stories to Keep You Up All Night, edited by James Patterson. In that story, our poor seaman will find himself stranded on a beautiful jungle island with a beautiful Sigma operative....of course, this island's no Club Med. All hell's breaking loose and they have thirty minutes to get out alive.
Otherwise, back on the homefront here, preparations are underway for the release Map of Bones in paperback and, of course, this summer's big book, Black Order. I hope to see many of you out there on the road this summer.
And I need to thank Tom for the following link. If you've read Sandstorm, you know how an asteroid crashing into the desert wreaked havoc. Click here to see a satellite photo of a real such crater found in Egypt: Crater.
That's it for now! Next up: more details on Black Order!
**
January 3rd, 2006
Yes, the holidays are officially over and a new year has started. Now it's time to get back to updating this site!
I am going to keep this "Latest News" entry a bit brief, as the content I've added to the remainder of the site is quite significant. And I don't want to keep you all reading this when you can skip over to the new Black Order page. There you will find the entire prologue (some 18 pages) of the new book, ready to read!
Here is a fast link: BLACK ORDER PROLOGUE
Also there is some exciting information that I'm keeping under wraps. But all will be revealed in the coming months...so stay tuned!
And as it has been a while and folks have been asking for it:
Favorite Movie of the past Month: KING KONG (I went into this movie with deep regrets...why was Peter Jackson squandering his free ticket in Hollywood, only to direct yet another re-treaded movie, and one that had been remade a few times already? So I went into the theater grumbling under my breath--only to be simply blown away! The island scenes are worth the price of admission alone. Great popcorn flick!)
Favorite Book of the past Month: THE WOODEN SEA by Jonathan Carroll. (I've had this book on my shelf for awhile, unread and gathering dust. It was critically well received so I bought it and added it to my overstuffed bookshelf. I finally picked up the book over the holidays and began to read it. And as I was enjoying the book and finding myself delighted by it, something began nagging me. I realized there was something oddly familiar about his writing. So I paid more attention, and to my shock, discovered that this same author wrote one of my all-time favorite books, one I had read back in the Eighties, titled The Land of Laughs. I lost my copy of this novel back in college, and time wore away my memory of the exact title and name of the author, which has been frustrating me for over two decades. Then I happened to glance at the "other books by this author" page at the front of The Wooden Sea--and there it was! My lost book! The Land of Laughs. By God, after so long, the mystery was finally solved--and I was able to order a new reprinted edition of the book. So it was quite the Christmas surprise...and I was a delight to be find Jonathan Carroll in top form in his latest book, The Wooden Sea. So pick up one or the other...either way, you're in for quite a strange ride)
Until next time....all the best!
Jim
November 16th
It can't possibly be nearly Thanksgiving. And I don't even want to think about Christmas. In fact, my Halloween decorations are still up (as meager as they may be). It's been that sort of fall here, but I didn't want any more time to pass without getting something on this page.
First, there are a couple new signings posted on the "Appearances" page. They are both local to the Northern California area, as I'm trying to stick close to home for the holiday season. Though the past two weekends were spent in Irvine, California, and Atlanta, Georgia, where I met some wonderful people and several new authors.
But enough about that. . . here are a few long-delayed tidbits about what's coming up!
First, Map of Bones is coming out in paperback on May 1st. Here are a few snapshots of the cover and inside picture.
 
Yet, I suspect more people are interested in Black Order (due out July 1st). What's it about? So here's the first big clue. A sneak peek at the cover:
Okay I guess I owe everyone a bit more since this update is so delayed. Here is the catalog copy for promoting the upcoming novel. Go to the ends of the earth and back with the elite scientists of Sigma Force as they race to crack the ultimate mystery of mankind, a quest that will save—or destroy—us.
High in Nepal, a monastery erupts with savagery and madness . . .
Deep in a German mine, abomination wears the innocent face of a child . . .
Hidden in the jungles of Africa, experiments rooted in a dark past have found fertile ground again . . .
From the frozen peaks of the Himalayas to the canals of Denmark, from the subterranean labs of a lost era to the glittering halls of the Smithsonian, Sigma Force will face its most cunning adversaries, its most daunting challenges, and its most dire threat to unravel our most perplexing scientific mystery—the origins of life—a secret locked within cryptic runes. The very future of mankind will belong to the victor.
For any hope of success, Painter Crowe must make a pact like no other: to align Sigma Force with an old enemy, one beyond redemption. And it will be up to Commander Gray Pierce to find the balance between salvation and damnation, even if it means sacrificing those closest to him. Yet victory is far from certain, for there are riddles that even the greatest minds were never meant to solve.
So I think that's enough to digest and ponder for this month. Coming up in the next month, a small gift for the holidays: a sneak peek at the prologue to Black Order. I hope you enjoy what's to come!
And one last item, I'll be joining a cruise next fall (2006) as a guest lecturer, discussing Alexander the Great and the creation of Map of Bones. It is a cruise that follows the footsteps of Alexander the Great's life around the eastern Mediterranean, from Greece to Turkey to Egypt. In the coming month, I'll be posting more details if anyone is interested in joining me on this adventure.
Until then. . .all the best,
Jim
September 5th, 2005
I find it hard to believe that it's Labor Day! I've just flown back from Chicago (and boy, are my wings tired). Sorry for being incommunicado lately. Those who I've corresponded with by email know part of the answer. I'm in the process of moving this summer. Same city, new location, still a headache and a half.
Also I've spent a good portion of the summer stumping around the country speaking at conferences, conventions, bookstores...pretty much wherever they'd have me <grin>. In addition, I've been selected to chair the Awards Committee for the new International Thriller Writers. Next year, the awards will be given out at the first-ever THRILLERFEST, a convention specifically for thriller writers. I hope to see lots of you there! Here is a link if you are interested in attending:
ThrillerFest 2006
What else have I been doing that's kept me from updating this site...oh yeah, writing the next book. In this update, I thought I'd take a moment to pass on the official title of this book:
BLACK ORDER
I'll trickle more information about the novel over the next month: a short description, a few factoids, even the entire opening prologue. So stay tuned!
In the meantime, I've finally posted (on the PHOTOS page) a few pictures from my trip to the Metropolitan Museum in NYC, along with one from the British Museum, regarding Map of Bones (which continues to be doing very well out there...thanks for the support!).
Finally, thanks again to everyone that emailed or wrote over the past couple months of summer. I appreciated each and every one! Keep them coming!
June 6, 2005
I just back from New York City where I attended Book Expo America. While there, I also visited the Metropolitan Museum to do a bit of research on my next novel, but I also took a few pictures of some significance to MAP OF BONES (I'll post them in the next couple days here). I also wanted to add a couple more reviews for the latest book.
“A mysterious biblical object, nefarious Vatican spies and a deadly centuries-old religious cabal—Da Vinci Code–style thrills for the seriously addicted. Rollins has few peers in the research department, which makes the historical material fascinating. Dan Brown-ers looking for methadone will add to Rollins's usual solid numbers.”—Publishers Weekly
“Author James Rollins combines cutting-edge science, medieval history and non-stop action to create a top-notch thriller. Elmore Leonard once said that when he writes, he tries to leave out all the parts that people would normally skip. Rollins has that skill down pat: his historical research into the mysteries of the Vatican, the Catholic Church's reverence for relics of dead saints' bones and body parts, and the ancient secret society that still exists today is all absolutely fascinating. The science, myth and mystery are skillfully woven into a classic adventure story peopled with compelling and varied characters, both good and evil. Highly recommended.” --Claire E. White of Internet Writing Journal
Just an added note: Claire, who did the review above, has also posted a nice interview on the website: INTERNET WRITING JOURNAL.
Finally a big THANKS to everyone who has written to share their thoughts or posted reviews on the latest book...most appreciated!
all the best,
Jim
May 24, 2005
Just a fast update again: MAP OF BONES and SANDSTORM continue to hit many bestseller lists! Thanks for all the support...and the generous reviews posted on Amazon.com and Barnes&Noble.com. For anyone interest in hearing a rather lengthy interview can visit the website www.peeringintodarkness.com or click here to reach their podcast directly.
May 11, 2005
A quick update! I have just returned from the San Diego area where I attended the birthday bash for one of my all-time favorite bookstores, Mysterious Galaxy. If you live in the area or visiting, it is the greatest place to shop for books. Maryelizabeth had me sign a slew of extra copies of MAP OF BONES, so many in fact that I've decided to make her store the official supplier of signed copies. Here is a direct link to where you can order copies mailed to you: SIGNED COPIES FROM MYSTERIOUS GALAXY!
On the other bookstore front, Sandstorm in paperback (with the cool lenticular cover!) has made the Top Ten list at Borders, Barnes&Noble, and Waldenbooks! Thanks again for all the support, generous emails, and more than generous reviews on Amazon.com. Most appreciated!
May 4, 2005
I just wanted to post the first official review for MAP OF BONES. I've also learned in advance of Sunday's official ranking that MAP OF BONES will debut at #22 on the New York Times hardback fiction list (while oddly enough SANDSTORM has also debuted at #22 on the New York Times paperback fiction list). Milestones for my books! Thanks to everyone who helped get the books there!
Here is a review from Booklist:
Rollins, James Map of Bones
This novel about an ancient secret society and the race to find priceless antiquities is sure to be compared to Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, but, in every way, it’s a much better book. Where Brown’s best-seller was predictable despite its compelling premise, this tale is clever and suspenseful. Where Code featured ropey dialogue and assembly-line characters, this one offers (mostly) real people engaging in (mostly) real discourse. Like Brown, Rollins makes the most of a moderately implausible premise, this one requiring that the reader accept the literal truth of a certain allegorical aspect of the Bible. But, as both books prove, a thriller can be as implausible as it likes as long as it is entertainingly developed. Fans of The Da Vinci Code will obviously want to read Map of Bones, but even those who found Brown’s opus unpalatable will thoroughly enjoy the taste of this one.
More to follow in the days ahead!
April 9, 2005
With MAP OF BONES only two weeks from hitting bookstores, life has gotten a bit crazy. Mentions of the upcoming book have appeared in many newspapers and magazines: from USA TODAY to GOOD HOUSEKEEPING (go figure!). As a consequence, there has been a flurry of signing events scheduled around the country. For a location near you and future updates, please check out the "appearances and signings" link off the main page.
Closer to the homefront, I just returned from speaking to a writing group in Fairfield, California, where I was treated very well and had a great time with all the folks there (Thanks, Kathy!). I'll also be returning there in October to speak at a writing conference (details to follow for those residing in Northern California).
Over the past couple weeks, I've received quite a few inquires and questions about MAP OF BONES. Rather then addressing them individually, I thought I'd post the Q&A that is currently running on HarperCollins website. Here it is:
____________________________________
Author Interview
Rolling the Bones: James Rollins on the Truth Behind the Tale
Truth or Supposition: the Vatican employs an elite cadre of spies around the globe?
That would be true. Like any government, the Vatican does indeed maintain a sophisticated intelligence-gathering operation, even employing full-time agents. One of its most notable and heroic missions took place during the Cold War, when the Vatican attempted to smuggle priests into the Soviet Bloc to act as spies.
And even today, such clandestine operations continue. During the Iraq war, the Vatican maintained detailed intelligence of conditions on the ground -- gleaned not from individual spies, but from its community of two hundred thousand Iraqi Catholics. And perhaps therein lies the Vatican's greatest strength: Between its diplomatic ambassadors, its worldwide charitable organizations, and its millions of parishioners and lay persons, the Vatican certainly maintains a sophisticated global network of eyes and ears.
How did you learn of this, if indeed true?
Despite the Vatican's code of silence on this matter, painstaking research by David Alvarez resulted in a detailed treatise on this subject: Spies in the Vatican: Espionage & Intrigue from Napoleon to the Holocaust. The author's main source for this book came from an American Jesuit Robert Graham, who spent decades in Rome investigating espionage. And I find it intensely interesting that shortly after Robert Graham's death, the Vatican ordered all his research papers sealed and returned to Rome. It seems the code of silence still continues.
Map of Bones is laced with items of interest about holy relics; how did you research the origin of items, and what what importance do they hold to believers?
Raised a Roman Catholic, I was well versed in the trials and tortures of the many saints throughout the ages and the veneration of their bodily remains. But it was only while researching this book that I learned how Catholic canon law requires every chapel or church altar to enclose some form of relic within it. I learned further, that in order to meet this demand, the Vatican maintains its own 'relics library,' a storehouse of filing cabinets, shelves, and drawers filled with bits of bone or spoonfuls of dust.
Why I wondered? Why this cultish reverence to body parts? The official answer was that the bodies of saints were imbued with the Holy Spirit, and it was this Spirit was that revered after death, not necessarily the physical remains. But as I researched, I wondered if there could be a deeper mystery here. Answering this question became the first step to building the story of Map of Bones.
Your books often interlace high-concept scientific theory within the pages of your novels. While not wanting to spill any undue secrets about the plot of Map of Bones, can you give us the scoop on some of the breaking-news scientific concepts you laced through the pages of this book?
Ah, a peak behind the curtain. Suffice it to say that the science behind this story is not fiction, but based on current research going on in labs around the world, including British Aerospace, Argonne National Laboratories, even Boeing Labs. The investigations center on a new form of solid matter that was recently discovered -- or should I say re-discovered? Further research into this subject matter also revealed an intriguing historical trail, stretching back to medieval alchemists and beyond. But to tell more would spoil the adventure!
This book launches a new series, based upon the SIGMA force introduced in Sandstorm: why the move to linked novels, from your compellingly readable stand-alone thrillers of the past?
For years, readers have contacted me and asked questions about various cast members from my earlier books. What became of Ashley and Ben's baby after Subterranean? What is the next port of call for the crew of the Deep Fathom? What about was incubating in the tanks at the end of Excavation?
I came to realize that I wanted to know those answers, too. I was no longer satisfied with the confines of a single book. So I challenged myself to construct a series -- something unique and distinct. I wanted to build a landscape of three-dimensional characters and to create my own mythology of these people's lives. I didn't want to fashion a series like the hundreds out there already, where one character is constantly bumbling into one harrowing adventure after another, who never really ages, who never really grows.
While there certainly will be a central recurring character in the series, the supporting players will come and go in what I describe as a "revolving set of characters around a central figure." All these characters will grow over the course of the series, balancing personal lives and professional, some succeeding, some failing. The same with the central character, a new member to Sigma Force: Commander Gray Pierce. He will struggle to find his own path to balance family, God, and country, stumbling along the way, but ultimately finding his path.
Speaking of Sandstorm, what is this we hear about the cover treatment of the newly released mass market edition making publishing news?
I certainly have to give my publishers credit for breaking barriers with the mass market editions of my books. With my first book, Subterranean, my publishers took a chance by developing a multiple stepback cover -- the first of its kind. And once again, they're pulling out all stops and releasing Sandstorm with a new lenticular holographic cover, employing a new patented technology. And as a writer who delves into new sciences, what could be more gratifying?
You've said that Map of Bones is the religious man's answer to The DaVinci Code; but that indeed, you started writing this long before Dan Brown's pivotal work of fiction was published. Can you expand upon this?
Map of Bones was my attempt to tell a historical thriller set against a backdrop of mythology, Catholicism, and current-day technology. And while I knew in advance my novel would be compared to Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code, the germ for this idea actually started about ten years ago. I had come across a text while vacationing in Rome, about Vatican history and intrigue during the Great Schism where Europe was split by popes and anti-popes and the papacy was driven out of Rome to France. I found this bit of history fraught with possibility. But I didn't yet have the fictional thriller to go with it. So over the course of the past decade, I began collating ideas, bits of character, trickles of storyline until the larger story gelled into existence. This became Map of Bones.
Still there is another underlying reason I decided to tell this story now. Many thrillers, when collided with the Catholic Church or the Vatican, paint the Church, faith, and belief in a disparaging light. In Map of Bones, I sought to show the Church and its past in a manner that is both realistic and acknowledges some of the Vatican's corrupted past, but also stresses the role of Church as a fundamental factor in forming Western Civilization, and how faith in all its forms is as part of human nature as our own biology, whether it be the belief in God, a Higher Power, or in the substantive good in mankind.
And yes, besides all that, it's also a nonstop wild chase around the Mediterranean through tombs, crypts, crumbling palaces, and the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
We've been calling Map of Bones the genesis of a genre; you're calling it the birth of a new kind of thriller ... what sets this book apart from the works of your literary counterparts, such as Brown, Crichton, and Carr?
I think you've tapped the perfect trio of writers to illustrate my goal. Michael Crichton is a master of the scientific adventure. Caleb Carr is a pure genius at constructing historical mysteries. And Dan Brown has broken unprecedented ground by turning art history and religion into a breakneck thrill ride.
I want to do all this and more. In the world at large, science has its own history, religion has its own mystery, mythology has its own truth. Why can't a new genre encompass all these realities? I intend this new series to do just that, to break down the boundaries of genre, to seamlessly blend historical mystery, breakneck thriller, and scientific adventure.
And ultimately I hope the result will not only excite a reader into turning pages, but also move and intrigue the reader to investigate beyond the covers of the books.
As I wrote in the Author's Note at the end of Map of Bones, the greatest path to truth is found in the simple adage: Seek and you shall find.
____________________________________
So that's about it at the immediate moment. Coming up over the next few weeks: details on contests and news on the movie front.
And speaking of movies...
Favorite movie of the past month: SIN CITY (flawed yes, but so unique in style that it shouldn't be missed on the big screen...but be warned, it is very violent)...Runner-up is an oldie I saw on late night television a couple days ago: GROSS POINTE BLANK. Forgot how much I loved that movie!
Favorite book of the past month: BLINK: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell. This is a non-fiction book about the strength of intuitive first reactions to sudden events. Very intriguing treatise.
Until next time!
Jim
March 18, 2005
As promised, here are some early reviews to MAP OF BONES....due out in another FIVE weeks! How, you might wonder, did folks get these early copies of the upcoming book? HarperCollins has a great program called FirstLook (www.firstlookbooks.com). All you have to do is register, and you start getting free copies--usually Advanced Reader's Copies--of upcoming books put out by HarperCollins. All they ask is for honest reviews of the books posted back to their website. Click on the above link for more details.
And here are a few of the reviews posted from these early reviewers:
MAP OF BONES FIRST LOOK QUOTES
|
|
1. |
“James Rollins has done it again…another great read.” |
Jamie (Edgewater Park, NJ) |
2. |
“What else can I say but WOW!!! From cover to cover Map of Bones kept me breathless and guessing. By far Mr. Rollins' best work to date! This is one of the best books I have EVER read and I recommend...no, I insist that you read this book! I can't wait for the next installment…” |
Kirstin (Phoenix, AZ) |
3. |
“Mr. Rollins has written an exciting, intelligent, and fast-paced story. The book was a fun read, with several big surprises that I did not see coming. I eagerly look forward to James Rollins next book.” |
Josh (Fresno, CA) |
4. |
“This book was without a doubt one of the best books that I've ever read! I will be looking for more of author James Rollins books to come.” |
Mark (Quakertown, PA) |
5. |
“James Rollins is my new favorite author…a terrifically written book with a unique plot, intriguing characters and great action! This one's a definite tantalizing thriller.” |
BJ (West Point, GA) |
6. |
“Map of Bones is a suspenseful, twist-filled roller coaster.” |
Wendy (Columbus, OH) |
7. |
“Thrilling, a pure joy ride, and out of control. This is one great book that will become one of the best books of the year…” |
Errol (Bronx, NY) |
8. |
“Once again, James Rollins produces a fast-paced book that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Constant action keeps you wondering what could possibly come next. Never lacking for thrills and adventure, this book is hard to put down. Loved it and can't wait for the next one!!” |
Jeanetta (Mesa, AZ) |
9. |
“Map of Bones did not disappoint. Once I started this book it was almost impossible to put down.” |
Kristal (Cleveland, OH) |
10. |
“WOW! Run, don't walk, to your nearest bookstore to get Map of Bones, you won't be disappointed.” |
Richard (Amarillo, TX) |
11. |
“This was the first novel I have ever read by James Rollins, and it won't be my last! Rollins' style is rip-roaring, and fiercely entertaining, with a strong cast of characters, suspenseful action, clever puzzles and tricks, and just a wonderful, thrill-a-minute adventure. Highly recommended for anyone who is looking for an incredibly entertaining, enjoyable adventure-thriller!” |
Brian (Chestertown, MD) |
Thanks to all the kind and generous reviewers! Now I look forward to hearing from all of you on what you think of the book~
Oh, one last reviewer. This comes from an article in USA TODAY (Thursday, March 18th). Michael Spinozzi, Borders marketing chief, described MAP OF BONES as "Raiders of the Lost Ark meets The Da Vinci Code." And who am I to argue with that?
More to come still this month: including a NEW CONTEST with 100 cool prizes.
Til then...all the best!
March 11, 2005
Quick note: Emails and Guestbook entries were glitching over the past couple weeks. Guestbook has been taken off line, but a patch has been installed to fix the email link. If I have not personally responded to your email or guestbook signing, then I did not receive your note. Sorry! Please resubmit at your convenience! Thanks, Jim
March 1, 2005
I'll be writing a full update here in the next week, but time is short at the moment as tomorrow I head out to speak at the Henderson Writers Conference. I just wanted to post a quick alert here that the mail system to the site has been plagued with problems for about 5 days. If you posted an email to me during the last week of February or signed the guestbook during this time, it might not have gone through. I always respond personally to emails and send out thank you's for signing the guestbook. If I didn't respond to your email or guestbook signing, then the site must have swallowed up your posting. Sorry for the inconvenience!
On another note, I've added a link on the homepage for readers to personally join the James Rollins Author Tracker Program through HarperCollins. It's a great way to keep in direct contact with my publisher. They won't spam you or sell your email address...it's simply a way for them to alert those interested in new events with my books.
And speaking of new events, a spanking brand-new contest is in the works, put on by HarperCollins...with 100 very cool prizes. Trust me, you'll want to participate! Details to follow!
Also why I'm keeping this short and sweet is that a TON of new information will be coming to the site in the next couple weeks: Details on the new lenticular cover for SANDSTORM! Early reviews to MAP OF BONES! Information on the contest! So stay tuned!
all the best,
Jim
February 1, 2005
The countdown begins! MAP OF BONES officially hits stands in 12 weeks (due out Tuesday, April 26th). And unusually for one of my books, some folks in the industry are already talking about it. In the January 24th issue of Publishers Weekly, there was an article listing the "five titles booksellers say are most likely to win over the Da Vinci faithful."
And to my surprise, MAP OF BONES was one of the five. Thanks booksellers!!
What do I think of the comparison to Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code? Well, I'm certainly flattered. In the past, Dan Brown's novels have been listed on my website as picks for my favorite book-of-the-month...years before he ever blew up into his current phenomenal success. I've always appreciated his blend of science and history, while still not sacrificing thrill. Something I've attempted to achieve in my own stories.
My novels have always blended mythology, religion, cutting-edge science, and adventure. MAP OF BONES is no different. But with the current Da Vinci Code mania, I can see folks making that comparison more directly--for good or bad. Still, despite the association, I hope to still stand out as my own writer. Who else has telepathic marsupial creatures that live two miles under Antarctica? And I won't even mention the piranha-frogs of AMAZONIA!
Here's a little background on the genesis of the story behind MAP OF BONES:
The story was my attempt to tell a historical thriller set against a background of intrigue, Catholicism, and current-day technology. And while I knew in advance my novel would be compared to Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code, the germ for this idea actually started about ten years ago. I had come across a text while vacationing in Rome, about Vatican history and intrigue during the Great Schism where Europe was split by popes and anti-popes and the papacy was driven out of Rome to France. I found this bit of history fraught with possibility. But I didn’t yet have the fictional thriller to go with it. So over the course of the past decade, I began collating ideas, bits of character, trickles of storyline until the larger story gelled into existence. This became MAP OF BONES.
Still there is another underlying reason I decided to tell this story now. Many thrillers, when collided with the Catholic Church or the Vatican, paint the Church, faith, and belief in a disparaging light. In MAP OF BONES, I sought to show the Church and its past in a manner that is both realistic and acknowledges some of the Vatican’s corrupted past, but also stresses the role of Church as a fundamental factor in forming Western Civilization, and how faith in all its forms is as part of human nature as our own biology, whether it be the belief in God, a Higher Power, or in the substantive good in mankind.
And yes, besides all that, it's also a nonstop wild chase around the Mediterranean through tombs, crypts, crumbling palaces, and the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
I hope you enjoy it!
Onto other news...we must not forget that April 26th also marks the date that SANDSTORM is going to be re-released in paperback...with its new lenticular holographic cover. I was just informed last week and proud to hear that SANDSTORM was voted one of the "2004 Best Mystery/Thriller/Suspense Novels" by Readers Read. So that was cool!
Also for you aspiring thriller writers out there, a new organization is forming to promote the genre: the International Thriller Writers. They have a great website full of intriguing articles by leaders in the field: www.INTERNATIONALTHRILLERWRITERS.com
Lastly and as always:
Favorite book of the month: Rain Fall by Barry Eisler (who doesn't like a main character who's an assassin for hire?!?)
Favorite movie of the month: Assault on Precinct 13 (I've always loved the original John Carpenter film...and I still think I prefer the original...but this was still a fun, kick-ass movie)
January 3, 2005
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season.
As promised, I've updated the MAP OF BONES page to include the prologue in its entirety. I hope everyone enjoys the opening.
Also coming up later this month, I'll be posting some pictures from my research trip to London. I even have some photos of the geodesic roof of the courtyard at the British Museum, that played a dramatic role in SANDSTORM. So as soon as I can get those pictures scanned, I'll upload them to the "Photos" page.
Also throughout each month, I'll be adding questions and answers to the new FAQ page as I get them from readers. So if you scroll to the bottom of the FAQ page, you'll see the latest additions.
So what did I do in London? Could there be hints of events in current and future books? I spent almost all of my short (4 day) trip to London visiting museums: the Natural History Museum (with its new Darwin exhibit where I attended a live webcast), the British Museum, the Tower of London, and the Tate Modern Museum. Okay, and yes, I rode the giant ferris wheel--named the London Eye--and spent one remarkable night at a truly English pub with a reputation of being haunted.
And speaking of research, the upcoming novel MAP OF BONES was one of my most rigorously researched novels, tracing a historical and scientific trail deep into the ancient past. And the strangest part of this novel is that all of its TRUE! With the release of the new book, I'll be linking other research sites so others can follow this same trail, including video footage. The hunt officially begins April 26th!
Also in MOB, you'll see the return of Painter Crowe from SANDSTORM in an ancillary role as the new leader of Sigma Force, with the introduction of a new member to the Sigma team, Commander Gray Pierce. Currently I'm working on my third novel (title is a secret) with the continuing adventures of Painter Crowe, Gray Pierce, and Sigma Force. I hope you all enjoy what's to come!
Okay before I forget:
Favorite movie of the past month: This one is a rental for a change. The title is BELOW. It's the story of a haunted submarine during WWII. Creepy, atmospheric, disturbing.
Favorite book of the past month: STATE OF FEAR by Michael Crichton. Yes, it's controversial, but also fascinating, thought-provoking, and damn exciting to boot.
November 10, 2004
Bugs and more bugs! Sorry for so long in writing, but I've had a mishap with the site that precluded me from not only updating the "Latest News" page, but also shutdown the mail system to the site. So for those who have been trying to reach me through the site, I owe you all a big apology...but THE MAIL SYSTEM AND GUEST BOOK ARE BACK UP NOW!
And how I have been biting my tongue! So much to tell. So here goes an abbreviated update of life in general. My personal top ten in no specific order.
(1) MAP OF BONES has gone into final galleys. The publication date has been moved UP two months from the usual July release to May (April 26th, 2005, to be precise). So a bit less of a wait!
(2) I just returned from a research trip to Mexico and I'll be posting pictures next month.
(3) You can see the initial cover art for the upcoming book on the main page. Keep checking for updates!
(4) The opening prologue to the new book has also been uploaded here. But this is only the first half! In six weeks, I'll post the second half. Along with more stuff that I must keep secret!
(5) On the strange news front, SANDSTORM will be coming out in paperback the same date that MAP OF BONES comes out in hardback. Okay that's not the strange part! Avon books is releasing the paperback version of SANDSTORM with a lenticular holographic cover. This is a limited edition release, then they'll switch back to a regular cover. So be on the look out for that!
(6) I've also added a "FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS" page on the website. The link can also be found on the home page for the site. There are 24 questions and answers on the page now...I'll be adding more as I get good questions from all of you!
(7) I've become an uncle twice over since the last update. A nephew named Charles Mack (or just Mack) and a niece named Alexandra (or Lexie). Also my editor also had a new baby boy, named Alexander (or Xander).
(8) I have a new dog in the household. A Dachshund named Paiwakit.
(9) My favorite book of the past few months: BRIMSTONE by the duo of Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
(10) My favorite movie...and maybe because it's fresh in my mind: THE INCREDIBLES. The Pixar folks are pure geniuses.
August 2, 2004
How time flies! Then again I've spent a fast month promoting SANDSTORM across the country (a special thanks to Joe Konrath, author of WHISKEY SOUR, for touring me around Chicago's bars and pizza joints). I had a great time meeting everyone on the road.
I also want to thank all those who helped push SANDSTORM to the #27 spot on the New York Times bestseller list. Such support is greatly appreciated. I was also thrilled by all the emails about the books. Each and every one is read by yours truly, and I try my best to respond to each.
The news this month centers on the contest listed last month. I had five winners, and a sixth-place honorable mention for an answer that made me laugh. So here is the reveal and acknowledgement to the winners.
The contest riddle for those who have forgotten:
Buried in SANDSTORM, I make an offhand, subtle reference to my very first book...a nod, if you will, back to the very beginning of my writing career. You might even say the very first words. Be the first to identify this reference and win the prize!
The answer was indeed found in the "very first words" of my writing career. In SUBTERRANEAN, my first book, the first two words that open Chapter One are spoken by a paleo-archaeologist who is plagued at a work site. The words: "Damn rattlers."
In SANDSTORM, another archaeologist is similarly plagued by pests at a work site. His two words open his section, similar to the opening in SUBT. His words: "Damn scorpions."
The first place winner, and winner of a signed copy of an ARC to SANDSTORM (plus an audio version of the book), was John J. Walsh IV. Congratulations!
Second thru fifth place winners were as follows (and winners of signed copies of ICE HUNT in paperback):
2ND PLACE: Heather Thomson
3RD PLACE: William Ellis
4TH PLACE: Eric McCulley
5TH PLACE: Rick Richnow and Kathy Gau
And lastly sixth place goes to the most creative answer that was close on target. Larry Miller won a copy of ICE HUNT, too, for the following response. He had the right half of the riddle, identifying "Damn rattlers" as the correct passage in SUBT. But he found another pest that was plaguing another archaeologist...and by golly, those vermin may be worse than scorpions. Larry's answer: from Omaha on page 103: "Damn bureaucrats..."
So ends this year's contest, but more will follow in the coming months leading up to next summer's book. And coming up next month on the website will be further information about the new book.
But for this month, I'm going to reveal at least the title of the next book:
MAP OF BONES
I hope you all have a great remainder of the summer! And if you haven't read SANDSTORM yet, I hope you do...because it's the prequel to much more to come!
Until September...
all the best,
Jim Rollins
June 29, 2004
CONTEST... CONTEST...CONTEST...CONTEST...CONTEST...CONTEST
Okay, as promised, here is a small contest for readers of my books. More will follow!
The prize: a signed Advanced Readers Copy of SANDSTORM!
The winner: The first fan who can email me with the correct answer to the following question.
The contest riddle: Buried in SANDSTORM, I make an offhand, subtle reference to my very first book...a nod, if you will, back to the very beginning of my writing career. You might even say the very first words.
Be the first to identify this reference and win the prize!
June 11, 2004
I hope this update finds everyone well! It's about two weeks from the release of both SANDSTORM in hardback and ICE HUNT in paperback. Both are due to hit shelves on June 29th. Just in time for those traveling on the Fourth of July to have something to read on all those planes, trains, and automobiles. I look forward to hearing what everyone thinks of the latest book.
On a technical point, the guestbook has been glitching a bit, and I apologize for that. We're troubleshooting that and hope to have it de-bugged ASAP.
I'd also like to take a moment in this update to thank all the folks who have been writing and emailing me over the past year. Your letters are heartily appreciated, and I hope I have not neglected to respond to any of them, but with the aforementioned glitches, I fear such might have happened. If so, my apologies to all!
Okay, let's talk about this new upcoming book. I've hinted in previous updates that this book is unique. As most of you probably know, all my books have been stand-alone stories with unique adventures and different casts of characters. For the first time, I'll be changing that stance. SANDSTORM, while it's its own self-contained story, will be introducing a story element that will be broadened into a full on-going series with a recurring central character. I'm very excited about this concept, and I'm hard at work on the official "first" book in this new series...though I consider SANDSTORM to be the serial's "prequel" (though I hate to use such a word). More on this series will be elaborated in future updates.
What about the other books? Will there ever be sequels to them? This is a question I get asked alot. I'd love to do them, and in fact, I have a full-fledged synopsis for a sequel to my very first book, SUBTERRANEAN. Perhaps down the line (maybe on the ten-year anniversary of that book), I'll write such a sequel. If you'd be interested in reading this story, drop me a note. That said, I have plans in this new series for a few cast members from previous books to make cameo appearances. Anyone want to start making bids now on who they'd like to see?
For those interested, I'll also be making updates in the next few days listing sites for booksignings and such. Upcoming events can be monitored on my "Appearances and Signings" page.
Also coming in July, I'll be posting some links to some of the locations featured in SANDSTORM. That way, you can see the actual ruins or tombs used in the book.
Lastly, I seem to recall mentioning a contest. On the day SANDSTORM comes out, I'll post a question here on the "Update" page. Answer it, and you'll get a signed copy of the rare Advanced Readers Copy of SANDSTORM (plus a couple extra goodies). How "rare" are these ARC's? I didn't even get one! I had to pay fifty dollars to purchase one copy on eBay. It's here in my office. The first reader to answer this question correctly will win this ARC copy (my ONLY copy), signed by yours truly.
But here is this month's hint. Re-read the first chapter (not the prologue) of SUBTERRANEAN.
Okay, that's it until the official drop date for SANDSTORM!
Until then...
all the best,
Jim R.
May 3, 2004
For this month's column, I thought I'd address some of the more frequent questions that pop into my email box (and yes, I read all my own mail!). One question has come up three times just this past week. It's a small issue, but I thought I'd mention it anyway. Some visitors to the sight have noted the slight change to the posted cover to this summer's book, SANDSTORM. Kudo's to those eagle-eyed visitors...and here I thought I was sneaking that under the radar. Here are the two cover concepts side-by-side:
 
The second cover is the actual book jacket to the novel. It went through a slight alteration to make the cover a bit more dramatic (like the addition of the the lightning bolt). What do you all think?
Another question I get asked regularly is about my prior career as a veterinarian. "Do you still practice as a veterinarian?" Here's the answer. As of about two years ago, I set aside scalpel and stethescope to write full-time. However, I do still offer my volunteer services to the local animal shelter and groups. I spent last Sunday helping the Sacramento Council of Cats in their "Feral Cat Program." This group contributes time, money, and many scratched-hands to getting the local wild cat population spayed and neutered. Along with the group's staff of wonderful volunteers and another veterinarian, we spent a day removing genitalia from a score of feral cats. Below are a couple snapshots from the event:
 
Also I received word on the first official signing that coincides with the release of SANDSTORM. It's in Chicago, Illinois (my hometown!). Here are the specifics, but I'll also be updating appearances on the "Appearances" page of the website.
Wednesday, July 07, 2004 07:00 PM
James Rollins, will be promoting Sandstorm
Appears on/at: BORDERS BOOKS AND MUSIC/Reading/Signing
830 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
Tel: 312-573-0564
Lastly, a couple folks asked about my favorite movie and/or book of the past month. I failed to include that with April's update. So here goes...we mustn't break with tradition:
FAVORITE MOVIE: Kill Bill Vol. 2 (and also, of course, Vol. 1)
FAVORITE BOOK: Blackout by John Nance (It's the first Nance book I've ever read, and I must say I had a blast with it! Though WARNING...don't read it on an airplane!).
That's it for this month!
Next month: More details about SANDSTORM...and a contest!
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