Paul at Thunderstorm reports via The Keenedom that Maelstrom Volume 1 (A Gathering of Crows, The Rising: Deliverance, and Six Days) has shipped. All domestic orders have gone out, as of this morning, via media mail. International and Bookseller orders are being processed now. If you ordered multiple sets, they will arrive in multiple shipments (one set per box).

Paul also says, “The books turned out pretty damn cool if you ask me. Russ’s artwork really shines on the jackets… computer screens don’t do it justice. And they line up pretty nice and neat… Zach McCain (jacket) and Leigh Haig (interiors) did a great job incorporating the “set” concept. But best of all, I really feel privileged to publish these stories. Levi and Martin are my favorite Keene characters. I remember when I first read The Rising (6-7 years ago) Brian’s characterization of Martin is what really hooked me into buying more (almost all) of his stuff. And Levi, in ways, is even a stronger character. And if Six Days is Kelli Owens first novel, I have zero doubt about buying anything in the future with her name on the cover.”

I couldn’t agree with him more about Kelli Owen’s work. I think you will too, when the books arrive. And although I’m sick to death of zombies, it was nice to return to the world of The Rising and revisit Reverend Martin. Of all my characters, he (along with Tony Genova and Levi Stoltzfus) remains my favorite.

The second Maelstrom set will be available for pre-order later this year. It will consist of:

A Conspiracy of One by Brian Keene
Alone by Brian Keene
Once Upon A Time In Midnight by John Urbancik

2011 continues, motherfuckers…