Writing has been a lifelong passion for Robert Howell, ignited at the tender age of thirteen when he collaborated with a friend on a sci-fi novel. Though that ambitious project never materialized, it planted a seed within him—a profound joy in crafting stories and letting his imagination flow onto the page. The thrill of writing was further fueled by a significant milestone: receiving a rejection letter from Galaxy magazine for his first submitted story at seventeen. Rather than discouraging him, that rejection became a badge of honor. It signified that someone had engaged with his work, taking the time to read his story and respond. This experience kindled an ember of determination that would smolder within him throughout the years, waiting for the right moment to flourish.
While his early attempts at writing were foundational, Howell's journey took an unexpected turn when he joined the Canadian Armed Forces. This decision was driven by a desire to travel and seek adventure. During his military service, Howell found himself immersed in diverse environments and cultures, each experience serving as a wellspring of inspiration for his storytelling. "Everywhere I go, I am inspired by ideas," he reflects. "I had a lot of interesting events happen, some I would rather not discuss, some I am not allowed to." The experiences he encountered, often tinged with intrigue and mystery, began to weave themselves into the fabric of his writing.
Returning to civilian life, Howell transitioned into a career in real estate, where he spent three decades. His work often involved visiting vacant properties that his company had taken possession of, a duty that would ultimately inspire his latest foray into the gothic horror genre. One property, in particular, stood out—a mansion that gave him an unsettling feeling. “When I mentioned this to others in the office, they said I should write a story about it,” Howell shares. What started as a joke quickly transformed into a creative spark that ignited his imagination. “The idea stuck in my head, and I just knew there was a story to write,” he recalls.
In just six weeks, Howell immersed himself in research and writing, culminating in the completion of his novel Blood Mansion. While the mansion in his story diverges from the actual property he visited, one of the ancillary buildings mirrors it closely. This blending of reality and fiction illustrates Howell's unique ability to transform personal experiences into captivating narratives, revealing a vivid imagination that resonates through his work.
Howell's writing journey has also been influenced by his personal life, especially his role as a father. He wrote stories for his children, often casting them as heroes in fantastical adventures. These imaginative tales not only delighted his kids but also honed his storytelling skills, allowing his creativity to flourish. Additionally, his experiences writing newsletters for the MacDonald High School Alumni Association reinforced the importance of professionalism in his writing, further enhancing his command of the written word.
As readers eagerly anticipate the sequel to Blood Mansion, titled Blood Castle, Howell assures them that the same themes and characters will return, although they will face new challenges and evils. “This time, they encounter a different kind of evil and different forms of ghosts,” he explains. The characters, having learned from their previous adventures, will face unexpected twists and revelations, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. In fact, Howell has already begun laying the groundwork for a third book, which promises to be even more thrilling as the characters confront formidable foes that will test everything they've learned.
Robert Howell’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and imagination. From the thrill of receiving his first rejection letter to the eerie inspirations drawn from his real estate ventures, his evolution as a writer showcases the richness of life’s experiences and the stories they can inspire. As he continues to craft narratives that weave together the fantastical and the real, readers can look forward to more captivating tales from this imaginative storyteller. For those eager to dive into Howell's world of gothic horror, Blood Castle is set for release in March 2025—mark your calendars and prepare for a journey into the unknown.
CONNECT WITH Robert
Website: www.storywriter.ca
Twitter: @storywriter_ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/robert.howell.750
Instagram: storywriter.ca
Linked-in: www.linkedin.com/in/robertwilliamhowell
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