EC015: Let The Bits Run Free, Part 3 by Marc Stiegler, Narrated by Katharine McEwan
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This week brings the conclusion to Let The Bits Run Free, and the author Marc Stiegler joins us again to share a parallel he sees between this story and the Braintrust Series, the way that Rogue One relates to the Star Wars movies.
If you’re interested in reading along with us, or if you just can’t wait for next week’s conclusion to the Let The Bits Run Free, you can grab a copy for yourself at Amazon, for just $.99. Just click here to buy your copy.
If you missed parts one or two of Let The Bits Run Free, you can download them here:
Ear Crush Episode 13 – Part One of Let The Bits Run Free
Ear Crush Episode 14 – Part Two of Let The Bits Run Free
If you enjoy this series, you can grab the books of the Braintrust series, beginning with The Braintrust: A Harmony of Enemies by following the links below:
Links:
Join the email list to be notified of new audiobook releases and to be eligible for free stuff from LMBPN Publishing. Click here to signup.
Subscribe via Apple Podcast here
Telltales No More
The End of Telltale
Telltale Games employees were appalled after hearing the shocking announcement during what seemed like another routine meeting on a recent Friday. Pete Hawley, CEO of the popular video game developer, brazenly stated that the company is reinforcing a “majority studio closure”. This was immediately followed by layoffs of about 200 employees. Immediately– as in the employees had precisely 30 minutes to clear the building after hearing the news. Dismayed as they were, the employees took another hit as they learned they would not be receiving a severance package. AND their health insurance would be shortly concluding at the end of the month.
What Happened?
What brought on this sudden change, anyway? Why did these loyal employees receive no warning whatsoever? No matter what the reason (or excuse), there is no answer that can justify the Telltale’s rash actions. However, Co-Founder Dan Connors recently spoke up about the company’s financial situation. He stated that they “had no choice” as to everything that occurred with the company’s downfall.
Telltale Games was allegedly working hard to close a major financing deal when one of their key potential backers unexpectedly pulled out. This sudden move pushed the company over the edge, forcing them to take such drastic measures. As several rumors continue milling around, one fact remains consistent. There has been a clash of direction occurring for quite some time. Former Telltale CEO Kevin Bruner claims this is what ultimately pushed him to step down last year. Issues with management and the overview of the company’s direction ultimately led to their downfall.
Now What?
So, what happens now? After all, Telltale Games is what graced our presence with the development of epic video games like Game of Thrones, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Batman (just to name a few). What about all those promised releases that are scheduled to come out? (i.e The Walking Dead, Stranger Things, The Wolf Among Us, p.2).
“Multiple potential partners have stepped forward to express interest in helping to see The Final Season through to completion,” Telltale said on Twitter regarding TWD. “While we can’t make any promises today, we are actively working towards a solution that will allow episodes three and four to be completed and released in some form. In the meantime, episode two will release tomorrow across as planned. We hope to have answers to your other questions soon.”
So there’s hope, after all! (?) But what about Telltale’s collaboration with Netflix’s Stranger Things? Fans were excited to take a sneak peek at some of the leaked footage that was just released, Yet, many are still left wondering the game’s fate considering Telltale’s recent turn of events. Netflix notified Polygon that they are “in the process of evaluating other options for bringing the Stranger Things universe to life in an interactive medium.” Hopefully, this means there will be a Stranger Things game but are Telltale’s remaining 25 employees up to the task?
This meager group is responsible for finishing the project of Minecraft: Story Mode adaptation for Netflix, so it appears they already have their hands full. Fans are all curious: what video game developer will assume the responsibilities of these binge-worthy games?
Let us know your thoughts on Telltale’s closing in the comments below!
EC014: Let The Bits Run Free, Part 2 by Marc Stiegler, Narrated by Katharine McEwan
[powerpress]
Katharine McEwan joins Ear Crush this week as our co-host, and as the narrator of our story, Let The Bits Run Free.
We connected via Skype while Katharine was enjoying a beautiful Southern California day outside the studio where she was recording the third book in the Braintrust Series, Rhapsody For The Tempest.
She and I spent some time chatting before part two of our story about the characters and the world of Marc’s Braintrust series. Following the story, you’ll hear us discussing Katharine’s other careers as both an actress and a film producer in Los Angeles. You can learn more about Katharine at the following places:
Her film website, https://solitaryfilms.com/
Her Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/katharinemcewan/
If you’re interested in reading along with us, or if you just can’t wait for next week’s conclusion to the Let The Bits Run Free, you can grab a copy for yourself at Amazon, for just $.99. Just click here to buy your copy.
If you wish to contact Steve you can do so via email at steve at lmbpn dot com.
If you missed part one of Let The Bits Run Free, you can download it here:
Ear Crush Episode 13 – Part One of Let The Bits Run Free
If you enjoy this series, you can grab the books of the Braintrust series, beginning with The Braintrust: A Harmony of Enemies by following the links below:
Links:
Join the email list to be notified of new audiobook releases and to be eligible for free stuff from LMBPN Publishing. Click here to signup.
Subscribe via Apple Podcast here
Books & D&D: A Short Story
As a person who reads a plethora of books each month, I tend to let my imagination get the best of me. After some research, I’ve come to learn that there is a stigma surrounding girls and Dungeons and Dragons. A good amount of females play the game, and some even make it their living. Well, I’m here to change the idea that it’s a “boys game”. After all, I’m just a girl, who got sucked into this world. (But not like in real life, because that would just be freaky.)
Image Source: Wikipedia
Once Upon A Time, My Partner Decided to Eat, Live and Breathe D&D
It wasn’t always this way. I was always more into pop culture; movies, TV shows, and strange celebrity diets. Although pop culture inhabited a nice chunk of my life, books are what hold the largest place in my heart. Lately, however, my household has been filled with characters, fantasy, and not from my books, but this world where you can be anything or anyone.
No, it’s not a setup for My Little Pony.
Image Source: Pinterest
Hi, I’m Yesi, and this is the story of how I, an avid reader, became a D&D-er.
(Is that what it’s called? I’m still technically new to this land.)
If anyone were to ask, “well, what first drew you to D&D?”, I would probably mention that I’ve actually always wanted to play, but my friends weren’t as open-minded as I was. My partner, however, is the polar opposite. He is an extreme gamer-although he will never admit it. He once had roommates who played, but at that time he never truly dove in and immersed himself. Until six months ago. *Enter me*- a total book nerd who sees the opportunity to bond more, and gives this game a shot.
I mean come on; at the end of a long day, who doesn’t want to shed their skin and be someone else? Dungeons and Dragons is a de-stressor. People who are natural creatives or are interested in using their noggin for daydreaming are ideal in order for this game to truly work. And the best part, you ask?
Image Source: Pinterest
No one will judge your character, questions your ideas, or get pissed off when you choose to do something wild in the game.
In fact, its encouraged! All the world’s a stage, and so is Dungeon and Dragons. It’s been around since the 70’s. It’s only growing more popular as the years roll by. I bet at least one person in your friendship circle has either heard of the game or even made a character once. The eccentricities of D&D start to shine when the development of your favorite self is forged into your own characters. Once they begin to progress along, you soon come to realize this is your own action-packed adventure.
For the love of Tieflings, D&D is not “geeky”.
D&D encompasses more than just a small portion of “geeky” culture. Without truly knowing it, everyone can find themselves lost in this wonderful, ever-expanding world of RPG, sci-fi, steampunk, and everything else in between. There’s a little bit of everything when it comes to playing this tabletop game. Another fun fact? You can play in-person OR online. Sites like ROLL20 and Fantasy Grounds offer players a virtual escape from reality.
Ironically, my books began to look less and less appealing the more I got into Dungeons and Dragons.
What D&D offers me is the emotional connection I had with books when I was younger. Once again, I felt myself forming a bond with the hero of the story and finding myself lost in the adventures of fiction. D&D accentuates that feeling as it allows you to bask in the glory of your accomplishments with friends. Who doesn’t want to bring their daydreams and aspirations to life? Lost in a world as exciting as you make it, the possibilities are endless.
Seriously, take it from one reader to another. Books will always be my main interest. In fact, I will continue to have books to catch up on. Dungeons and Dragons is an experience like no other. So play it, watch it, and have fun.
Marvel vs. DC: The 4 Main Differences in Their Movies
Image Sources: Wikipedia
Marvel and DC have been the two chief superhero comic book franchises since the era first began. Although they are both multi-million dollar franchises, these two rivals have been fighting for first place since the beginning of time.
In recent years, the feud between these two comic book companies has evolved not only to TV, but the big screen as well. Marvel and DC universes continue to grow an expanding audience and gain higher demand in today’s pop culture. As movies remain a favorite hobby among many individuals, these two comic book moguls continue their ongoing battle. Yet, while there are a select few who deem themselves die- hard aficionados, others can’t help but wonder: what’s so different about them?
So, without further ado, here are the four main differences between Marvel and DC films:
Individual characters vs. an entire group.
In 2008, Marvel started its cinematic universe with movies exclusively featuring their more popular characters, such as: Iron Man, Hulk, Thor, and Captain America. This was done intentionally so that each character would continue to grow and improve his status over time. Ultimately, this unique blend of characters was combined to form the 2012 classic The Avengers. DC, on the other hand, is known for creating the most notorious Batman trilogy to date. The beginning of its filmic world was created by first introducing Superman. However, DC ultimately veered into more group- inclusive cinemas. For instance, the premiere of Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice featured several other well- known characters including Wonder Woman, Aquaman, and Doomsday- just to name a few. The same concept applies with Justice League, distinctively branching off from Marvel’s more individualistic style
The role of the super heroine.
In one corner lies Marvel with Black Widow, who has been the leading feminine role in most recent films. Ironically enough however, she still does not have her own movie. Considering the impending introduction of Captain Marvel into the MCU, Black Widow may have hope of starring in her own film one day. Captain Marvel will, hands down, give Black Widow a run for her money.
In the other corner, DC proudly shines the spotlight on Wonder Woman. Not only has she starred in her own film played by Gal Gadot, but DC assured she was featured in several group flicks as well, setting the high-desire tone for more films to come.
Main protagonists.
While Marvel has been focused on giving each of their characters some “me time” in their movies, DC has alternatively opted to provide their leadership roles to both Superman and Batman on various occasions.
Should only one character be deemed the MCU leader, Iron Man would be ideal. He not only assisted in the creation of MCU, but also starred in multiple Marvel films. On the other hand, Batman should be considered the designated leader of DC films, although some aficionados may not agree. Yet, with his tactics, brains, and money, he successfully managed to assemble the entire Justice League.
Diversity.
Various news outlets, including The Hollywood Reporter, have pointed out that Marvel does not include enough diversity in its films. They predominantly select heterosexual white men to portray the leading role in the majority of their motion pictures.
However, DC wisely opted to mix things up by altering the ethnicity of many of their characters. For instance, they prompted a young Israeli woman to play Wonder Woman, an African American man as Cyborg, a Polynesian as Aquaman, and an openly gay actor as Flash in the recent Justice League movie.
So, there you have it. Both Marvel and DC continue their opposition among fans, yet they each have their own distinct differences that make them unique. It will be quite interesting to see how each of these comic book publishers will continue to evolve over time. Either way, fans can eagerly await the next epic film made by these talented comic companies.
Let us know what your favorite universe is in the comments below!
EC013: Let The Bits Run Free, Part 1 by Marc Stiegler, Narrated by Katharine McEwan
[powerpress]
Marc Stiegler joins Ear Crush this week as our co-host, and as the author of our story, Let The Bits Run Free.
We spend some time chatting about Marc’s award-nominated LMBPN Braintrust series at the start of the show, and then Marc introduces our story, at around the 5:45 mark of the show. If you’re a fan of the Braintrust series, (I AM!) this story takes place at around the beginning of book two, Crescendo of Fire.
If you enjoy this series, you can grab the books of the Braintrust series, beginning with The Braintrust: A Harmony of Enemies by following the links below:
NETFLIX AND CHILL(Y): The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
Image Source: Netflix
Who else is eagerly awaiting the Netflix revamp of Sabrina? *raises hand. * Get ready to put on your best black lipstick and resting bitch face because this is so not your 90’s version of Sabrina the Teenage Witch.
Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, creator of Sabrina “2.0”, has another idea in mind. The era of comedic sitcoms is coming to a show-stopping halt with Sabrina. The show plans on returning to the small screen with wickedly delightful Kiernan Shipka as the titular teenage witch and the adorable Ross Lynch playing Harvey Finkle.
Image Source: Wikipedia
As we all know, reboots are all the rage these days. That being said, it comes as no surprise that producers would want to bring Sabrina back to life, considering the popularity of the CW’s “Riverdale”, which falls in the same universe as the latter. It seems like the Archie Comics universe plans on giving the teenage witch a hellish new style. Think 60s or 70s horror movies like Rosemary’s Baby, or Carrie for instance. Rather than the fun, lighthearted adventures of the original, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina promises to be darker and far more sinister.
The chilling comics first premiered in 2014 by Archie Horror, a brand of Archie Comics. The reboot revolves around her dealing with all the supernatural occurrences surrounding her, and just trying to be a normal teen, because technically, aren’t we all teen witches on the inside?! Yet, fans can’t help but eagerly wonder: will Sabrina sign a contract with Satan to become a full-blown witch on her 16th birthday and embark on the Path of Night? Or will she stay loyal to her mortal friends (and cute boyfriend!) and remain on the Path of Light? The suspense is chilling me!
One question on everyone’s mind remains…where is Salem?! According to Aguirre-Sacasa, it appears Sabrina’s familiar won’t be making many appearances due to Shipka being allergic to cat dander. There’s also talk that since the show has a spookier vibe to it, there wasn’t much momentum to add Salem and his snarky, charismatic banter.
Take a look for yourself. But be warned: this chilling new take on Sabrina is not for the faint of heart.
One thing for sure: this show is a must see! Even the trailer has you wanting more. October 26th can’t get here soon enough!
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina premieres October 26 on Netflix.
EC012: Bellatrix Part 6, by Natalie Grey and Michael Anderle, Narrated by Emily Beresford
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No co-host for again this week, so we get right to part six, the conclusion to Bellatrix.
If you’d like to read the book you can grab a copy now for only $.99 at Amazon.
If you’re just joining us for the first time, you can catch Bellatrix from the beginning here:
Links:
Join the email list to be notified of new audiobook releases and to be eligible for free stuff from LMBPN Publishing. Click here to signup.
Subscribe via Apple Podcast here
EC011: Bellatrix Part 5, by Natalie Grey and Michael Anderle, Narrated by Emily Beresford
[powerpress]
No co-host for this episode, so we get right to part Five of Bellatrix.
If you can’t wait until next week for the conclusion to the book you can grab a copy now for only $.99 at Amazon.
If you’re just joining us for the first time, you can catch Bellatrix from the beginning here:
Links:
Join the email list to be notified of new audiobook releases and to be eligible for free stuff from LMBPN Publishing. Click here to signup.
Subscribe via Apple Podcast here
EC010: Bellatrix Part 4, by Natalie Grey and Michael Anderle, Narrated by Emily Beresford
[powerpress]
Today we hear part four of Bellatrix and our co-host is once again the story narrator, Emily Beresford. In the Ear Crush intro, we discuss her upcoming schedule, which includes TKG book 21 after which she’ll get back to the Alpha Class series.
If you can’t wait until next week for more of Bellatrix you can grab a copy now for only $.99 at Amazon.
If you’re just joining us for the first time, you can catch Bellatrix from the beginning here:
Links:
Join the email list to be notified of new audiobook releases and to be eligible for free stuff from LMBPN Publishing. Click here to signup.
Subscribe via Apple Podcast here