Ink & Shadows Issue #001

Thank you for showing your support and subscribing to the Obsidian Skull Press Newsletter. It is because of you that Obsidian Skull Press is possible!

We're thrilled to connect with you and share our passion for bringing unique and captivating stories to life. At Obsidian Skull Press, we're more than just a publisher; we're a platform for voices that often go unheard, a champion for narratives that push boundaries, and a haven for readers seeking something truly different.

We believe in the power of storytelling to connect us, challenge us, and ultimately, change us. We're committed to publishing high-quality fiction and non-fiction that resonates with the modern reader, with a particular focus on elevating marginalized voices and showcasing stories that reflect the rich tapestry of the human experience.

Each month we’ll share articles, blogs, opportunities, and stories from a diversity of contributors, our own TL Hutton, and the Obsidian Skull Staff, related to art, writing, cultural (Latinx, Native American, and all marginalized voices) inclusion and issues in the Arts, and everything that lurks in the shadows between.

Whether you are a novice or hobbyist, an aspiring or professional practitioner of the Arts, it is one of our goals to help you hone your craft, fuel your inspiration, ignite the wildfires of your creativity, and provide you a safe, pleasant platform from which to share your voice. If you are a reader and fan of fiction and art, we strive to provide you a pleasant environment on an inclusive platform from which you can choose from a diversity of works to enjoy.

In this inaugural newsletter, we'll be diving into the latest industry news, highlighting upcoming releases from marginalized authors we’re eagerly anticipating, and offering a glimpse into what Obsidian Skull Press has in store for you. So, buckle up, grab a cup of your favorite brew, and let's get started!

Industry Pulse: Publishing & Writing News

The publishing landscape is constantly evolving, and we're here to keep you in the loop. Here are a few key takeaways from the past few weeks:

AI in Writing: Friend or Foe? The rise of AI-powered writing tools continues to spark debate. While some authors are experimenting with these technologies for brainstorming and editing, concerns remain about originality, copyright, and the potential devaluation of human creativity. The discussion is ongoing, and its impact on the future of writing is yet to be fully seen.

• AI in Writing Fiction - Friend or Foe?

• AI: Friend or Foe for Writers?

• Is Artificial Intelligence a Writer’s Friend or Foe?: An Excerpt From The RV Magazine

• The Algorithmic Usurper: Why I Stand Against AI in the Arts

Indie Publishing Continues to Thrive: Independent publishing continues its strong growth trajectory, offering authors more control over their work and reach. Online platforms, marketing strategies, and community-building efforts are key to indie success, showcasing the power of author-driven publishing.

• Self-Publishing’s Output and Influence Continue to Grow

• Future of Indie Publishing: Benefits of Going Wide

• Indie Author Spotlight: Theodora Taylor

• 25 Years in INDIE Publishing: What’s Changed and What Remains the Same?

Genre Blending on the Rise: Readers are increasingly embracing genre-bending narratives, challenging traditional categories and blurring the lines between fantasy, science fiction, romance, and literary fiction. This trend encourages authors to explore new creative territory and offers readers a wider range of exciting, unpredictable stories.

• The Age of Genre Bending, Blending, and Juxtaposing

• 17 New Cross-Genre Trends We're Spotting in 2025

• Genre Trends in Publishing for 2025

• Is Traditional Publishing Dying? Surprising Trends Authors Can’t Ignore in 2025

BookTok Influence: Let's be real, we can't ignore the BookTok phenomenon. The power of social media, especially TikTok, to catapult books to bestseller status is undeniable, creating new avenues for authors to connect with readers and drive sales.

• The next chapter: How 'BookTok' is shaping a new generation of readers, literature

• The Power Of BookTok: Why TikTok’s Book Community Is Driving A New Era In Publishing

Anticipated Reads: Showcasing Marginalized Voices

"Beasts of Carnaval (Mira, July 2025)" by Rosália Rodrigo (Caribbean/Taino):

“This is a story of reclamation and healing from a violent past,” Mira editor Dina Davis says, noting that Rodrigo’s novel amplifies Indigenous Caribbean history and mythology. “One change she made to the historical timeline is that slavery ends a little earlier, before Africans were brought over, when it was the Indigenous Taíno people who were enslaved. She asks, what if we could have recaptured some of the culture that was lost?”

Fiction Writing Tips for the Digital Age

Welcome, fellow storytellers, to the Fiction Writing Tips section of the Obsidian Skull Press Newsletter! In this space, we'll be diving deep into the craft of fiction writing, offering practical advice and inspiring insights to help you hone your skills and unleash your creative potential.

Each month, we'll explore a different aspect of fiction, from developing compelling characters and crafting gripping plots to mastering dialogue and building immersive worlds. Whether you're just starting your writing journey or you're a seasoned author looking to refine your technique, we'll have something for you.

But first, let's kick things off with some Fiction Writing Tips for the Digital Age:

· Embrace the Power of Research: The internet is a treasure trove of information. Utilize it to research everything from historical details to scientific concepts, ensuring accuracy and adding depth to your stories. Just remember to cite your sources!

· Build an Online Community: Engage with other writers and readers on social media. Share your work, get feedback, and learn from others. Building a community can provide support, motivation, and valuable connections.

· Leverage Digital Tools: Explore software like Scrivener or online writing platforms like Google Docs. These tools can help you organize your thoughts, track your progress, and collaborate with others.

· Understand SEO for Writers: If you plan to publish your work online, familiarize yourself with basic Search Engine Optimization (SEO) principles. Using relevant keywords can increase the visibility of your stories and help you reach a wider audience.

· Experiment with New Formats: Consider exploring digital-first storytelling formats, such as serialized fiction on platforms like Kindle Vella or interactive narratives using tools like Twine.

· Protect Your Work: Be mindful of copyright laws and take steps to protect your intellectual property. Watermark your digital files and consider using a Creative Commons license.

Stay tuned for our next installment, where we'll delve into the art of creating unforgettable characters! In the meantime, happy writing!

Calling All Creators and Visionaries! Obsidian Skull Press Seeks Your Voice

Are you an author or artist yearning for a platform that celebrates the unconventional and amplifies voices often unheard? Obsidian Skull Press is actively seeking submissions that challenge the status quo and resonate with our mission. If you have a story to tell, art to share, or a unique perspective to offer, we want to connect with you!

We're currently accepting submissions for:

• Fiction: Unleash your imagination and share captivating narratives.

• Art: Showcase your visual storytelling and artistic expression.

• Blog Posts: Lend your voice to thought-provoking discussions and insightful commentary.

You can find our detailed submission guidelines on our "Submissions" page.

Join the Obsidian Skull Tribe!

Obsidian Skull Press is always on the lookout for fresh, compelling voices to showcase within our publications. But beyond seeking exceptional submissions, we're also actively building our team! If you're a creative individual who believes in our mission to champion unique and thought-provoking content, we want to hear from you.

We're currently seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to fill the following roles:

• Editor Assistant: Help us sift through submissions, provide constructive feedback, and ensure our publications are polished to perfection.

• Art Director: Do you have a knack for visual storytelling? Help us curate and commission stunning artwork that complements our written content.

• Social Media Manager: Engage our community, build brand awareness, and spread the word about the amazing work we publish across all our social platforms.

• Design Director: Bring your design expertise to the table! Craft visually appealing layouts for our publications and marketing materials, ensuring a cohesive and impactful brand aesthetic.

Important Note: These positions are currently volunteer roles. However, as Obsidian Skull Press grows and expands, we're committed to offering paid positions to dedicated and valuable team members. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience, build your portfolio, and contribute to a growing independent press.

If you're an enthusiastic blogger, a social media whiz, a design aficionado, or simply believe in our mission and want to contribute your skills, we encourage you to reach out!

To Apply:

Email us at info@obsidianskullpress.com with the Subject “Be a Part of the Team” and include:

• A short introduction about yourself.

• Which role(s) you are interested in.

• Why you feel you'd be a great fit for Obsidian Skull Press.

• (Optional) Links to your portfolio or relevant work samples.

We're eager to welcome new voices and collaborators into the Obsidian Skull Press family and build a vibrant community of creatives together! Don't miss this chance to be a part of something special.

More from Obsidian Skull Press

We're actively acquiring new manuscripts and working hard to bring you compelling stories in the coming months! Stay tuned for announcements about upcoming book releases, author interviews, and special events. You can also follow us on social media (links to social media) for the latest news and updates.

Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey! We're thrilled to have you as part of the Obsidian Skull Press community. Together, let's celebrate the power of diverse voices and the magic of storytelling.

Until Next Time, Happy Reading!

www.obsidianskullpress.com

At Obsidian Skull Press, we're dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalized authors. Here are a few upcoming releases we're particularly excited about:

"Awakened" (Grand Central, April 2025) by A.E. Osworth (LGBTQIA+):

In A.E. Osworth’s Awakened, which PW’s review called “a story of trans magic, empowerment, and joy,” a coven of trans witches square off against a malevolent AI entity. Osworth, though, has a friendlier relationship with artificial intelligence: they used what they say is “a really janky AI called Botnik Voicebox” to create Hex, the AI villain. The human characters, meanwhile, were generated by tarot spreads, which the author says felt “the same as writing with AI—making meaning from something that inherently doesn’t have any.”

"The Bewitching" (Penguin-Random House, July 2025) by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (Latina):

Three women in three different eras encounter danger and witchcraft in this eerie multigenerational horror saga from the New York Times bestselling author of "Mexican Gothic."

This is just a small sample, of course. We encourage you to explore the works of these and other diverse authors, enriching your reading experience and broadening your perspective.

"Passing Through a Prairie Country" (Counterpoint, March) by Dennis E. Staples (Native American):

Passing Through a Prairie Country , the second novel by Ojibwe writer Dennis E. Staples, is a work of horror centered on spectral presences that get stuck in and around a reservation casino.

"Sakina's Kiss"(McNally Editions, June 2025) by Vivek Shanbhag (Indian):

Shanbhag zeroes in on the growing cracks in an Indian family’s facade in this rich and stimulating novel. The comfortable life of Venkat and his wife, Viji, in Bengaluru is disrupted when two young men knock on their door, asking for the whereabouts of the couple’s daughter, Rekha, who is away from college at the family’s orchard in the country. What at first seems like a romantic quarrel soon reveals itself to be much more complicated when Rekha doesn’t return home.