Chasing the Bard
Follow Shakespeare into the world of the Fey
Scribe can count
Posted by admin in News
People often ask me ‘show how popular was Chasing the Bard podiobook?’ and truthfully I didn’t know. It was something that didn’t really bother me, since I knew plenty of people enjoyed it enough to contribute and give me feedback. I also studied Statistics at university and know the various ways they can be massaged by those that create them to justify many things. That is why I view podcasting numbers with some suspicion, but that’s another rant that can wait for another day.
However, after meeting with my agent Laurie, the most switched on person I know (sorry for the extra emails that just generated for you Laurie) and she asked about numbers, I sat down and did some spreadsheeting. And so here they are.
Between 31st March 2008 and 31st February 2010 Chasing the Bard was downloaded 502,534 times. That is approximately 23,930 listeners per episode (including the podiobooks.com version).
The top 10 Listening nations are United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Sweden, Israel, New Zealand, Turkey and the Netherlands.
To say I am happy is an understatement.
There are big exciting things coming down the pike in my writing life, and this was just a nice little incentive to keep going. For all of you who contributed to those numbers- I thank you, from the bottom of my needy little podcasters’ heart. And I think you are going to enjoy what is coming…
read comments (0)Digital Magic- Chapter Two
Posted by admin in Digital Magic
This is the final drop of Digital Magic in the Chasing the Bard feed- please subscribe here to get the rest of the return to the Fey
In New Zealand, an invasion brings a terrible choice for the people of the southern land. Ronan meets with his contact in Little Penherem- Bakari. And later the Liner meets with his own even more mysterious contact.
Including the voice talents of Tee Morris, Roger Ballantine, Heather Welliver and Martyn Darkly
Promos
Leave a comment, email me at pip at pjballantine dot com or call me at (+1) 206-666-6388
Next episode 6th December.
If you want to support this cast then purchase Digital Magic in print.
Huge thanks to Tee Morris for creating the album art for Digital Magic
Digital Magic- Chapter One
Posted by admin in Uncategorized
I am cross-posting this first chapter in the Chasing the Bard feed. If you want to keep getting this new story of the Fey in the future you will need to subscribe here
In the near future the Fey still survive in our world, eking out their Art and clinging to the hope their world will return. A dark stranger faces a memory of his past, while a lost and lonely writer begins to dream. In the English village of Little Penherem nothing is quiet as innocuous as it seems.
Including the voice talents of Tee Morris and Martyn Darkly
Promos
Free Will and Other Compulsions
Leave a comment, email me at pip at pjballantine dot com or call me at (+1) 206-666-6388
Next episode 22nd November and every two weeks after. I will begin Bard Talk on the alternate weeks.
If you want to support this cast then purchase Digital Magic in print.
Digital Magic
Posted by admin in Digital Magic
The time has come–the Fey are returning. Digital Magic, the sequel to Chasing the Bard is getting ready to release on 11th November 2009. Check out the website
The podcast will be coming out every two weeks and features a voice cast and some characters you might recognise.
The Casting Game- Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in News
Ever sat back and idly wondered who would you cast in the big movie version of Chasing the Bard? I certainly have.
Now you have you chance to have a say. I go head to head with Tee Morris (My audio Will) on the newest podcast out there- the Casting Game.
Listen here and then vote here. Yes you too can have a say- but you have until the next episode of the Casting Game drops- so hurry, hurry!
Julius loves us
Posted by admin in News
Just to let you know that I now have a new attractive item to decorate my office with- a Sir Julius Vogel Award- the New Zealand Hugo. And it’s for this very podcast.
Chasing the Bard won one of these beautiful Weta designed awards for best fan production. The first podiobook nominated for a SJV and the first to win.
I was so surprised that anyone in my own country listened, but it was a lovely, affirming moment. And my Will was there to hand me the award-something that made it even more special. (Even if he did try to run off with it, literally)
So, if you weren’t there on the night to hear me choke up- I’d like to take this chance to thank my wonderful cast, including my Mum. You all made it sing. To PG Holyfield and Chris Lester, I will always treasure the power and beauty you gave to Auberon and Mordant. And to Tee Morris, extra special thanks for lending me your skills. I think you were born to take that role. No one else could have done it justice and given Will a voice that was both charming and vulnerable.
It’s been a long hard road, but finally the members of Sive’s Council have been chosen and small tokens of the dark goddess’ appreciation sent out. To all those that participated, thank you so much- every one of you made a difference to both me and the success of this podcast. Special thanks to Kimberly Atkins for her wonderful art featuring Sive that she let me use for the limited edition bags sent to the Council Members.
So without further ado- the members of the Council are
- Lady Beth Highstar of Amaranthe
- Lord Ethan Sharpsight of Ironbark
- Lady Rachel GreatArt of Peony
- Lord Adam FirstDark of Winterberry
- Lady Jachelle Sapphireflame of Gloriosa
- Lord Michael Strongsword of Hornbeam
- Lord Charles Whitesoul of Cypress
- Lord Asher Blessedlight of Larch
- Lady Vaney Carefulthought of Bellflower
- Lady Jachelle Sapphireflame of Gloriosa
Now these last two members should email me at pip@pjballantine.com as a computer meltdown meant I lost contact details for them.
Sive and sprite
Posted by admin in Fan contributions
Have been a very bad scribe and not checking the dark goddess’s email (Good thing she is on the other side of the Veil!). But when I was able to get in I found this lovely image of Sive with a sprite done by Tamashii. Have I mentioned how much I dig other people creating Art from mine. It is both flattering and amazing.
The face of the dark goddess
Posted by admin in Fan contributions
So we got to see Will’s face, and now thanks to Kimberly Atkins we can see another face of Sive. I think this is so beautiful that I just had to share. There is something lovely and yet demanding about her expression.I’ve said it before, but every time someone else draws inspiration from my work, it just gives me the happiest warm glow.
Check out Kimberly’s website and other artistic work.
The face of the bard
Posted by admin in News
I don’t usually post links on the podcast website, but today is different. Today it was revealed that in all likelihood this is the face of the bard. Apparently this is the only known image of Will painted during his lifetime. He would be about 47 and look- he has hair! This is likely to be the image that all the other later images of the bard were copied from.
Somehow I think this is the face Sive fell in love with.
Also in the story you will see that they have uncovered the site of the Theatre (it’s actually called that) where Will would have trod the boards.
Two exciting Shakespeare discoveries in one day! Read the whole article and throw away that dusty image of the older Will.
No dark goddess at DragonCon
Posted by admin in Uncategorized
Well, it happened again. Third time in a row DragonCon has rejected me as a guest. The insult stings, yes it does. Every other DragonMoon Press author is awarded this, but apparently someone prepared to fly 7000 miles is not. Someone who got to #3 in Fantasy on Amazon is not. I should say here, that I am NOT asking for a room etc, just to be a guest.
The last two years I have been guest of other authors and that was fine. I sucked it up and accepted. But this year with three Sir Julius Vogel nominations, as well as Chasing the Bard, Erotica a la Carte and the amazing success of Double Trouble under my belt, I felt I was seasoned enough to get guest status.
So I am sorry, if you were looking forward to meeting me at DragonCon, talking podcasting or writing, or just hanging out- I apologise, I won’t be there. I have had offers by others to be their guest at the con, and while that is lovely- it’s the principle of the thing. Until I am an official guest of DragonCon I won’t be going. If you feel like taking this up with dragoncon@dragoncon.org then please do.
I’m sorry if I am letting any of you down, but the insult is a little too much for this one kiwi to take. This year is different. A year of change. If that makes me a bit of a diva, then after hours and hours of hard work over the last ten years, I think I deserve that much.
Oh yes. The dark goddess will not be bothering stepping through the veil for this one.
The dark goddess on your iphone/ipod touch
Posted by admin in News
Chasing the Bard is now available for you iphone or the ipod touch. Click here to purchase
I can tell you it looks really pretty. So support the podcast by purchasing the novel, and have the dark goddess and the bard in your pocket whenever you need them.
Just to let you know my new podcast novel Weather Child is now online and available for free. No Fey, but plenty of magic. This novel is a departure for me, as it is totally set in New Zealand and the stories are based on ones within my family. You knew I come from a long line of magicians, right? 
New Zealand’s first podiobook author, Philippa Ballantine, brings her first tale set totally in homeland. Step back in time and sideways into an alternate world, where magicians and seraphim are found only on the shores of the Long White Cloud. Between two world wars, Jack and Faith find themselves unravelling a conspiracy to turn the Awakened children of Aoteroa to dark purposes.
You can subscribe at the site, or it is available on itunes.
Christmas time for Puck
Posted by admin in News
Puck has reappeared in Erotica a la Carte in a special Christmas episode. Yes, this is erotica so please be aware of that. If you don’t want to hear Puck getting his groove on, then don’t listen, but have a wonderful Christmas anyway.
The dark goddess is having some issues with her supplier for the awards for her Privy Council. So her scribe is having to think something else up. Sorry for the delay, but should be fixed in January.
Rally the Court, the dark goddess is not amused. The sometime pirate captain, Tee Morris has been on twitter making dismissive comments about the fact that his book Pitcher’s Pendant has over twenty reviews while my scribe’s piece Digital Magic has but fourteen. This cannot stand.
Those of the Court who have read the sequel to Chasing the Bard, it would please the dark goddess if you would review it over on Amazon.com. We cannot allow a mere pirate captain to lord it over the Fey.
First a word from my favourite podcast brother and villain. Then you guys give me your favourite quotes from the Bard.
Thanks to Tee Morris, Lance, Sam Chupp, Nobilis, PG Holyfield, Chris Lester, Ink Gypsy, DDog, Jack Jaffee, Terry, Michael, Bruce
The final choice of the Privy Council will now be made. Sive can still accept members of her Court, but the Council Members will now be chosen. Ten lucky people will be receiving emails from the dark goddess inviting them to join.
Thank you all for your time, effort and enthusiasm for Chasing the Bard. Even Sive has been moved by all the support. Hang in there, and stay subscribed to this feed to find out about Digital Magic Podcast and other upcoming projects.
Feedback Show – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in Bonus episodes
I answer questions and field comments. It’s the final word from you the listeners. Now only one more episode. The Shakespeare tribute show.
If, like me, you’ve been amazed at the quality of work Mr Tee Morris has put in as Will Shakespeare, then it will come as no surprise that he is a trained actor. Tee first trod the boards in college, appearing as Alan Strang in Equus and also in many Shakespearian plays.
When Tee found out I was putting together a homage to his favourite playwright, he gave me this as his contribution. So sit back, and journey back in time to catch a glimpse of the talent of Tee Morris on the stage. It makes me sad that he is not still doing it- then again we can now enjoy his voice talents, and his great storytelling ability.
Thanks for sharing this with us Tee.
The final cut off date after which Sive will chose ten members of Court to become members of her Privy Council is 30th September. The trials can still be completed after that date but will not be eligible for the final decision.
A final feedback show and a homage to Shakespeare are the final two shows remaining, but my voice has taken a hammering in America and it will be a good few days until it is broadcast quality. So please bear with me.
It has been a wonderful journey, and I am excited by the challenges ahead. Stay subscribed as I will post news on new projects and things happening in the world of Chasing the Bard. Thank you all for your support, love and encouragement- it has meant more to me than even words can tell.
We know… you thought it was all over. However the kiwi and the Virginia ham have merely moved onto another phase. We’re on the road. In the next few days we will be found at the following
20th August, starting at 7pm — Barnes & Noble of Camp Hill, PA
22nd August, starting at 6pm — Moravian Bookshop of Bethlehem, PA
23rd August, from 3-5pm — Constellation Books of Reisterstown, MD
After that we’ll be at the geek mardi gras, known as DragonCon 29th August- 1st September. Then I fly home to the land of the long white cloud, so pop in to one or more of these signings if you can!
A new age but a few Fey still linger in the mortal realm. We catch up with a familiar shapeshifter and find the changes wrought on him by so long away from his home. We meet a writer hiding in an English village, a village full of people all with their own secrets and pain.
This will be podcast in 2009 and but is now available in print edition
Arise Sive’s Court…. Double Trouble is happening right now! Head on over to Amazon.com and order Digital Magic and Pitcher’s Pendant- we’re up to #59 and #43 as of right now… how much higher can they get, and will the dark goddess be forced to bow before a dwarf detective?
The final push of interviews. It has been a blast to do all these, exhausting but fun.
Tale Chasing - download
The Polyschizmatic Reprobates Hour - download
Inklings 2.0 - download
PodioMedia Chat - download
I Should Be Writing - download
ADD Cast - download
Jack Mangan’s Deadpan – download
The wonderful crew over at Back Seat Producers is helping the DT Team out. Not only did they host the marathon 3 hour chat with us they are doing 8 mini casts on 8 movies with 8 in the title- some fabulous stuff, so go on over and have a look . The guys are great fun and the reviews entertaining and informative- can’t ask for more than that!
The delightful Carrie had the DT team on to talk about writing, plans for the future and the fantasy genre.
Chapter Twenty – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Puck and Will set out on uncertain journeys and Sive learns to cry.
- 00:36 The story so far read by Tee Morris of Morevi; Remastered
- 02:43 Chapter Twenty
- Stay subscribed for a taste of Digital Magic, listener feedback and an audio tribute to Art. If you wish to contribute you can email or call in. Voice mail; (001) 206 350 5949, email; pip at pjballantine dot com.
- If you have not reviewed this cast, then please do so via itunes or Podcast Pickle
The writing force of nature JC Hutchins sat down and talked with Pip and Tee for his amazing Ultracreatives series. Hutch is an amazing writer and a great guy, and we both had a heck of a time.
Apparently this is what Americans call ‘shaking it’. Tee and I decide the internet is our personal playground and get into every show we can. Some silly, some serious.
ScreenGeeks – download
Erk Pod – download
Friday Night Live with Monty – download
Chapter Nineteen – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Will, Sive, Auberon, Brigit and Puck face the Unmaker.
- 00:39 The story so far read by Edward G Talbot of New World Orders
- 02:28 Chapter Nineteen
- 48:30 Promo Murder by Design
- 49:50 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Never say the Dark Goddess doesn’t provide for her Court. As part of Double Trouble promo here is the free pdf of Digital Magic. Yes, that is right- a boon from Sive herself for her loyal human followers. You can also find the pdf of Puck’s friend Billibub Baddings newest outing The Case of the Pitcher’s Pendant
Join Puck and Billi on 0.08.08 but first see how the story takes you.
More Fey delights under Double Trouble- wallpapers, avatars and graphics
Chapter Eighteen – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Sive and Puck take up the sword against the Unmaker and Will sets out looking for revenge.
- 00:40 The story so far read by J Dan Sawyer of Sculpting God
- 02:12 Chapter Eighteen
- 44:04 Promo Steampod
- 44:08 Bard Talk – extra long bard talk cos I am just so glad to be back!
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
What happens when three timezones collide? Ireland, America and New Zealand find out. A fun interview that survived Skype
A bit of writing, a bit of geeking out, and a lot of Tee and Pip.
Chapter Seventeen – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Will wakes up in the Fey.
- 00:34 The story so far read by Nobilis of Nobilis Erotica
- 01:36 Chapter Seventeen
- 26:41 Promo Broken Sea Audio’s Conan
- 28:08 Bard Talk – extra long bard talk cos I am just so glad to be back!
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
This time something pretty from the dwarf detective. It serves as a good reminder for 08.08.08 and looks very nice on your desktop
1280 x 960
1152 x 864
1024 x 768
800 x 600
Display these desktops proudly on your computer to let people know
trouble is brewing on 08.08.08…
Double Trouble on Amazon.com!!!
Chapter Sixteen – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
The unlikely allies enter the Tower of London.
- 00:40 The story so far read by Paul Fisher of Serve it Cold
- 02:00 Chapter Sixteen
- 30:55 Promo New World Orders
- 32:22 Bard Talk read by special guest Koru
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
The lovely Pamela from Tech for Writers was kind enough to interview myself and the uber nemesis himself Tee Morris. Listen here.
Sive’s Fifth Test
Posted by admin in The Fey Court
Booksignings in August
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
Yes, it is happening. In addition to the New Media Expo and DragonCon I will be at three bookstores on the East Coast. Here are the promo cards for these events kiwi-postcard-02-1 and kiwi-postcard-01
Chapter Fifteen – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Sive wakes to captivity in the Tower of London, and Auberon finally meets Will.
- 00:35 The story so far read by Theresa Jaffee of 12 volt Theatre
- 02:06 Chapter Fifteen
- 33:49 Promo Archangel
- 34:45 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Chapter Fourteen – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Auberon and his Court face consequences, while Will returns to the theatre.
- 00:40 The story so far read by the ComputerKing
- 01:50 Chapter Fourteen
- 40:59 Promo The Pieces Podcast
- 41:43 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
itunes all tuned up
Posted by admin in News
Those of you who let me know itunes was having issues with Chapters 1 and 2- thanks! It should be all fixed now. For some reason itunes went all flaky and was searching for the wrong file. New episode uploading tonight.
Chapter Thirteen – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Sive and Will finally give into their desires
- 01:07 Chapter Twelve
- 16:00 Promo Double Trouble- Billi and Puck talk Pitcher’s Pendant and Digital Magic but not until August 8th
- Music In My Dreams by Nijole Sparkis from Parallel Universe
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Show your love of the Fey and Billibub Baddings and drop this in your feed. Puck and Billi have a little sit down.
Care to make a donation?
Posted by admin in News
Since I was told off for not having a donation point, here you are. Give as much or as little as you like- any moneys will go towards my touring fund and are much appreciated. You can also find the button under Author and Cast page.
Sive’s Fourth Test
Posted by admin in The Fey Court
Chapter Twelve – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Sive makes her way to the Court of a mortal Queen to find her bard.
- 00:40 The story so far read by JC Hutchins of 7th Son
- 02:02 Chapter Twelve
- 26:35 Promo KrakensQuest
- 27:44 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Chapter Eleven – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Will sets out on his own path and Sive learns some truths about herself.
- 00:39 The story so far read by Mur Lafferty of the Takeover
- 01:47 Chapter Eleven
- 31:26 Promo Astral Audio Experience
- 33:04 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
The dark goddess has released her mission, and here is the flyer that will hopefully create enough interest in those who have never tried podiobooks to give it a go. For those participating don’t forget to email sive at chasingthebard dot com for credit for your trial.
ctb_cards and in colour ctb_cards_colour
Sive’s Third Test
Posted by admin in The Fey Court
As Sive’s Court fills the dark goddess presents the challenge of learning.
Chapter Ten – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Will goes looking for Puck and three lives collide with danger once more.
- 00:40 The story so far read by Tony Mast of the Back Seat Producers
- 01:55 Chapter Ten
- 39:15 Promo South Coast
- 41:00 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
The uber nemesis
Posted by admin in News
My very own Will Shakespeare recently declared himself the uber nemesis of all podcast novelists. This is our response; PG Holyfield of Murder at Avedon Hill (Auberon) and Chris Lester of Metamor City (Mordant) and me. Call it a first shot across the bows.
Chasing the Bard Shop
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
Still working on adding products to this site but here you are The Chasing the Bard shop. So far only tee shirts there, but if you have ideas on what you want to see there email me at pip at pjballantine dot net
There is a certain time when a really girlie squeak is required, and for a writer one of those moments is when another person- all unasked, takes what you have done and creates new Art with it. Rachel Ross made me do the happy dance. She has captured Puck and Macha. Looks as though the Trickster has been pulling her tail feathers again!
The full images is in the Art and avatar section of this site. Also there are banners, bookmarks, wallpapers and images. I always wished I could draw, but that is just not my Art. For those of you who do have it, and feel inspired by Chasing the Bard, feel free to create. As Sive tells me, the act of creation is a strike against the Unmaker. Just send it to me and I will add it to the page. I will also squeal like a teenager and dance happy.
Chapter Nine – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Life for the Bard and the dark goddess in the mortal realm is not what either wants. However the return of the Trickster brings the wind of change.
- 00:39 The story so far read by Nathan Lowell creator of the Golden age of the solar clipper
- 01:46 Chapter Nine
- 34:15 Promo Twelve Volt Theater
- 35:15 Bard Talk
- Music Farmors brudpolska by Barry Phillips from the album Trad
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Second interview
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
The delightful, smart and funny Jack Hosley interviewed me about a host of things. We go to the deep end of the pool as well as splash about in the shallows. Have a listen and subscribe to Wander Radio… it’s a great show even when it doesn’t have me in it.
Puck appears
Posted by admin in News
Here is the image of Puck I commissioned from the wonderful artist Irrel-Paola. I think the anime style works well for Puck, and he does certainly look about to make mischief. Even White Cat looks prepared for the trials ahead. I’m going to put together some shirts with this Puck image as well as the cover image for those that want to show their support of the Fey.
Podiobooks feed
Posted by admin in News
Chasing the Bard is now live at podiobooks.com for those that like their audio straight from the hip; no promos, no bard chat. But if you dig all that kiwi goodness then stay put!
Sive’s Second Test
Posted by admin in The Fey Court
The Dark goddess has returned- for once pleased with humanity. She has a second task ready for the Court.
Chapter Eight – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Mordant returns home and Will has to make a choice.
- 00:40 The story so far read by Biscuit of Kulture Kast
- 01:51 Chapter Eight
- 38:53 Promo Tale Chasing
- 40:00 Bard Talk
- Music The Fairy Queen from Celtic Celebration by Da Camera
- Forgot my usual shameless begging for feedback, take it as read.
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Chapter Seven – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Puck and Sive have to deal with the consequences of the Trickster’s actions.
- 00:38 The story so far read by Jack Hosley of Wander Radio
- 03:10 Chapter Seven
- 42:04 Promo Steampunk Spectacular
- 43:10 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Humans take notice
Posted by admin in News
Terry J Aman (or Lord Terry Strongsight of Blackthorn as he is known in the Court) had written a piece for the Minot Daily News about podiobooks and Chasing the Bard. It is always nice to get into the paper, and Puck, Sive, Will and even Auberon appreciate it.
My first interview
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
Chris Moody interviewed me on Podiomedia Chat. Listen to me blather on everything kiwi, writing and Chasing the Bard right here
Digital Magic Preorders
Posted by admin in Digital Magic
Digital Magic, the sequel for Chasing the Bard is now available for preorder- delivery in August. You can also read the first chapter there, pretty spoiler free as far as the podcast goes, but if you prefer to wait I will be podcasting this chapter at the end of Chasing the Bard.
Sive’s first test
Posted by admin in The Fey Court
The Dark goddess has come across the Veil with a proposition. She can be contacted at sive at chasing the bard dot com. Download
Chapter Six – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Brigit, left all alone, sets out on a dangerous path and Puck is forced to pick up the pieces.
- 00:38 The story so far read by Shua Mullikin
- 01:49 Chapter Six
- 38:34 Promo Wander Radio
- 39:30 Bard Talk
- David from Millionaire or Bust
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Chapter Five – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Young Will escapes the torment of working for his father for a bit of peace by the Avon, but women and Fey won’t let him be. Puck riles Sive with his concern for the young Shakespeare.
- 00:40 The story so far read by Joe from onthepodcast
- 02:10 Chapter Four
- 28:04 Promo Metamor City
- 30:27 Bard Talk
- Links mentioned
- Broken Sea
- Twelve Volt Theatre
- Chasing the Bard hits #16 in itunes
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Getting worried…
Posted by admin in News
- There seems to be spate of characters running amok on the web, but even this humble author is shocked how the Fey has broken free. The sweet Joe from Onthepod.net gave this podcast a lovely recommendation, but unfortunately for him, he referred to Puck as Pip. I completely understood however it seems Auberon is not so kindly. I think he is hanging around with that Mordant a little too much. Here’s Joe’s original show and his correction, including a rather scary sounding King of the Fey.
- But the upshot is… now Puck wants to make some crank calls and I don’t know if I can stop him…..
Sive is preparing to unleash the full force of Fey on the world. Those that spread the word will be rewarded by the dark goddess with a place in her in court. Four episodes and word is starting to leak out about Chasing the Bard. However Sive is not the most patient of immortals, and time moves far slower in her realm, so in the next few weeks expect to hear more about her assault on the human realm. It might involve thunder….
Promo Four- hey nonny nonny
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
- When PG Holyfield and Tee Morris collaborate, hilarity and creativity insue. I had no idea what they were doing, simply recorded their lines and let them at it.
- Download
Chapter Four – Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in The Chapters
We get to see another side of Puck and Sive finds something unwholesome about her husband
- 00:38 The story so far read by Kreg Steppe of Technorama
- 02:15 Chapter Four
- 27:01 Promo Murder at Avedon Hill
- 29:31 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Promo Three- King of the Faeries
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
- Yep, Tee and PG are at it again, and had I known what they were doing… yeah I still would have let them at it.
- Download
Chapter Three
Posted by admin in The Chapters
Welcome to Sive’s wedding- the groom at least is happy. Will Shakespeare gets himself into a spot of bother and we find out if Puck was a good choice of guardian.
- 00:40 The story so far read by Brad Bowyer from Podculture
- 02:12 Chapter Two
- 31:01 Promo Celtic Myth Podshow
- 31:47 Bard Talk
- Links mentioned
- Indiana Jim
- Scott Sigler
- Tee Morris
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Promo Two- Mordant calls in
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
- In the interests on not getting on the bad side of a Fey lord I decided that Mordant’s voicemail would make an excellent promo. Honestly it was not his scary laugh… honest…. Feel free to take this and play it anywhere, in fact if my arm were twisted behind my back (which of course it isn’t) then I’d prefer it. I am sure Sive is gonna come out and give me a kicking after this one… here’s hoping Will and Puck don’t call in!
- Download
Mordant speaks
Posted by admin in News
- As a writer it is nice when you characters speak to you as you write them, but after they are committed to paper you kind of expect them to be silent. However when they start calling your voicemail and leaving you messages you do start to wonder. Mordant it appears has learnt that I am podcasting about him, and I am not quite sure how to take this development….I think he must have been hanging out somewhere near Metamor City or is this just his subtle way of telling me he wants more screen time?
- Download
Chapter Two
Posted by admin in The Chapters
- We meet Mordant and discover he has changes in mind for the Fey. Sive enters the human realm for the first time in many mortal generations to find the child and ponders how to protect him.
- 00:40 The story so far read by Gary Colcombe from the Celtic Myth Podshow
- 03:32 Chapter Two
- 30:05 Promo Morevi; Remastered
- 31:27 Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- Twitter PhilippaJane
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
On the way….
Posted by admin in News
- OK NZ may be a small country, but they are showing their own some love. Yep that is right, Chasing the Bard ripped up to #5 in NZ itunes Literature. Any day you get above Sigler on the charts is a great day. So thank you all. Also nice to get some love from America- #47 in my first week is pretty amazing. Chapter Two is locked and loaded for my Monday. And Chris Lester.. well he gives great villain.
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The sound of a tree falling…
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
- So Chapter One is up and now the hard stuff…. announcing to the world the kiwi is out there! So here is the link to my one page media release or if you want a two page version. If any of you want to interview me, mention Chasing the Bard in blogs or other podcast or write a review let me know. The Fey don’t like to be seen, but on the whole novels do. I may not have plans on world domination, but it doesn’t mean I want the tree to fall in an unoccupied forest- especially if Puck is sitting in it at the time… he hates that.
- See you next week with Chapter Two- you get to meet Sive’s fiance voiced by the delicious Chris Lester. Mordant might not be one of those trainable husbands methinks….
Chapter One
Posted by admin in The Chapters
- Chapter One
- Welcome to Chasing the Bard…. step behind the Veil and meet the Fey. Puck is easy enough to get along with, but the others are less forgiving.
- Special thanks to Jack from Wander Radio who managed to talk me through some technical issues which threatened getting this released on time. His WordPress fu made today’s chapter possible.
- Bard Talk
- Voice mail (001) 206 350 5949
- Email me pip at pjballantine dot com
- Twitter PhilippaJane
- itunes reviews always welcome
- Post a comment right here
Promo One – Sive speaks
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
Here’s the first promo for Chasing the Bard, featuring myself and the talented Mr Tee Morris. Take freely, play it anywhere.. I won’t mind =). Don’t forget the first episode will be posted 31 March in New Zealand. Download.
Finally some love….
Posted by admin in News
itunes has relented and today the feed is up and running over there. And you can see the pretty art work from Chasing the Bard print edition squeezed down to fit on an album cover. Everything is falling into place so see you in just over a week…..
Tick tock tick tock
Posted by admin in News
Two weeks until the first chapter of Chasing the Bard drops into the podosphere, and I can tell you now the voice actors have been giving me such wonderful work that I can’t wait to get this out. One week from now I will be putting the media release and the promo up, and in addition I am going to let my fellow podcasters have a sneeky peek at episode one. So if you have a podcast and want to review, or just listen to Chasing the Bard episode one, then email me pip (at) pjballantine (dot) com let me know the name of your cast and I’ll email the mp3 over for your listening pleasure.One last thing- itunes seems to be having issues with taking my feed (probably something to do with me being a New Zealander) but here it is for now http://www.chasingthebard.com/?feed=rss2See you very, very soon
Daring the Bard
Posted by admin in News
Read my Bitstrip comic on my sometimes thoughts on the Bard. Best thing to do when afraid is to laugh at it.
Digital Magic cover
Posted by admin in Digital Magic
The sequel to Chasing the Bard is coming out in August and just wanted to share the lovely cover art. I’ll be at Conjunction in Easter reading a couple of chapters, so a sneak peak is available to those in Wellington.
I have some more lovely guest voices lined up and the chapters are falling together nicely. Stay tuned on 31st of March.
Release date and more…
Posted by admin in News
Just to let you know that I have decided to release Chasing the Bard: the podcast on 31st March 2008. That is a New Zealand Monday of course! In between there will be a promo and an episode 0 as a brief introduction to the cast, the format and the release schedule.I have also decided to write some extras for the podcast, scenes that I thought about writing but was never daring enough to, which may change the rating of this podcast to ‘not compleately suitable for kiddies’ (I will mark that episode so no one gets a surprise).Thanks to all those podcasters who have played my teaser, continue to get the word out there so that everyone knows Shakespeare and scary faeries are on their way.
Teaser for Chasing the Bard
Posted by admin in Promotional materials
Here it is, feel free to download and spread far and wide. Release date is looking like the end of March. Download
Coming soon…
Posted by admin in News
| Welcome to the future home of the podcast novel Chasing the Bard. Shakespeare ventures in his own midsummer nightmare, where a dark goddess plots to use his bardic powers to save her world- if he likes it or not.New Zealand author Philippa Ballantine, has appeared in Billibub Baddings and the Case of the Singing Sword, Murder at Avedon Hill, Metamor City and as Askana Moldarin in Morevi; Remastered. |
| Having previously ventured into audio drama with her first novel Weaver’s Web Philippa is looking forward to new challenges with Chasing the Bard: the podcast. |
| Originally published in print in 2005 with DragonMoon Press, Chasing the Bard was nominated for the Sir Julius Vogel award in the following year. The podcast of the novel will feature music, special effects and a voice cast of the some of the best known personalities in the podosphere; proving the international reach of this new media. This will lead directly into the publication of the sequel Digital Magic in August 2008. |