Hello dear readers!
What makes this a Quantum Birthday Issue? Well, I am writing this issue chronologically before my birthday on the 23rd, but publishing it after that date. As a result, while you read this I am – quantumly speaking – both already 35 and not yet 35. I am appropriately dazed and confused.
In this relatively short issue I’ll be sharing my latest work news, plus some art and the usual curated list of links for you to have a look at. Tally ho!
The Nechromaticon Cometh: Colouring Book & Birthday Sale!
Approximately one year since my surprisingly successful “cosy cosmic horror” art video project, I decided to revisit the theme. Moreover, my beloved wife suggested I try making some eldritch-themed colouring pages for the haunting season.
It turned out to be more inspiring than I thought, as I immediately began work, producing an average of two pages a day for a week. In the video below, you can see me talk more about the project while drawing the first three pages.
While I was working on the project, I started thinking up a made-up lore behind it. You heard part of it in the above video. The general idea is these illustrations were all made by a classic Lovecraftian professor-type, experiencing nightmarish visions of a colourless world. The professor disappeared mysteriously, leaving only these bizarre pages behind. I like to think of people not only using these for therapeutic colouring in, but potentially as inspiration or even handouts for a Call of Cthulhu or Liminal Horror game.
In the video and pictures below you can see the finished book in all its horrendous glory.
To celebrate launching the Nechromaticon – as well both my upcoming birthday and Halloween – I have created a sale! Until Halloween you can use the coupon code:
hauntedbirthday
to get 35% off anything on my store, including the Nechromaticon (which you can find HERE). Enjoy!
More Mirona: Writing Continues & A Revised Look!
Since last issue I have continued writing my story for Mirona the minotaur. A few paragraphs every day, so I now have about four and half short chapter written. I’m still enjoying the process and – like last time – while writing my image of the character has changed. Below is an updated version of Mirona, with different skin colour and now equipped with hooves!
Pictured above: an updated Mirona. While it was fun experimenting with the more saturated colour style, I felt she looked better with a darker skin tone. I think it compliments her clothing as well makes the maze tattoo pop. I also gave her hooves because I felt she was still looking too human.
Pictured above: another drawing of Mirona in her new look, and in a different more dynamic pose. This is what I am imagining her final form to be: she will eventually ditch the spiked mace in favour of two shields. One small buckler and one Hungarian shield (inspired by the replica featured in this video).
If I am able to complete her first adventure, I want to eventually hand her over to interested friends who would like to write more stories for her. I think it would be fun to establish some kind of “Mironian Cycle”.
Another Horror Film Recommendation!
Good Boy (2025, Bel Leonberg & Alex Cannon)
I initially thought, going in to the film, that it was going to be just a gimmick. Good Boy is a haunted house story told from the perspective of a dog, called Indy. Fortunately, it is a solid film which I imagine is even more scary/touching if you have a canine companion. The titular dog (called Indy in real life as well) is a stellar performer. I won’t say much about the plot (even though it is very simple) because I don’t want to spoil it for you in case you are interested in watching it. Just know this: the dog doesn’t die! Content warning for illness and alluded pet death. You can find out more using this handy website, before watching.
Media Spotlight!
- Check out this bundle hosted and organised by Molgannard Press, raising money for the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund.
- Shout-out to VINE Sanctuary, an LGBTQ-led farmed animal sanctuary that works for social and environmental justice as well as for animal liberation.
- David M Bird is back with another episode of his charming series Becorns! In this episode he shares his struggles and discoveries building little people using flowers.
- JP Coovert shares his adventure-generating mechanic, from his new original TTRPG, Keeper’s Call.
- Skatune Network returns with another Ska cover: just in time for Halloween, it’s the Addams Family theme!
That’s all for this month!
As always, thank you so much for reading.
One last reminder that if you feel like supporting my work, you can buy something from my website or itchio, join my Patreon as a paying member, or commission me.
If none of the above are doable for you, please consider spreading the word about my work to your friends!
New subscribers to the Penflower Post get a special discount code to use in the shop, as a thank you.
Until next time,
– Penflower
