Winds of Change (The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches #1): The Fantasy Epic They Couldn’t Bury

Twenty-five years ago, in February 2001, I released a fantasy novel the establishment didn’t want you to read.

The Kingdoms & the Elves of the Reaches—now reborn in its 25th Anniversary Legacy Edition as Winds of Change—was a story of divided realms, ancient magic, and unlikely heroes. It was also a line in the sand.

I didn’t have a massive publisher behind me. I didn’t follow the traditional rules. And because of that, I didn’t just face criticism—I faced targeted campaigns designed to silence me, marginalize my work, and bury my books beneath waves of fake reviews and gatekeeping disdain.

But the readers had other plans.

A Story Too Big to Bury

Ruin Mist found its way into schools, libraries, and homes. Winds of Change was translated, adapted for audio, and featured on Audible’s bestseller lists for months. Parents read it with their kids. Young readers who couldn’t find themselves in Tolkien or Martin found new magic in Adrina, Seth, and Vilmos.

While some in the industry scoffed, millions of readers turned the pages.

So Why the New Edition?

Because the time has come to set the record straight.

This Complete & Uncut Legacy Edition of Winds of Change is the story as it was meant to be told—fully restored, richly expanded, and finally free from the compromises made to fit into boxes that were never meant for me.

This is for those who stuck with the journey.

This is for those discovering Ruin Mist for the first time.

And yes—this is for those who tried to stop the story from being told.

A Saga Reclaimed

If you’re looking for something safe, polished, and market-tested, turn away. But if you want a true epic, forged in fire, unfiltered and unbroken, then you’re ready for Winds of Change.

“Before the legends, before the war—there was Ruin Mist.”

You’ll walk alongside Princess Adrina as she fights to define her own fate, watch Seth uncover darkness within his kingdom, and witness young Vilmos awaken to a magic the world tried to erase. There are no chosen ones here—only people who rise, fall, and rise again.

Just like this book.

Pre-Order the 25th Anniversary Legacy Edition

Release Date: February 10, 2026

Pre-order on Amazon

Winds of Change: Kingdoms & the Elves of the Reaches — Complete & Uncut

How You Can Help Reignite Ruin Mist

Pre-order the new edition to support the relaunch.

Leave a review—real voices drown out trolls.

Share this story with a new generation of fantasy lovers who need heroes beyond the usual.

This isn’t just a rerelease. It’s a rebellion in paperback.

Thank you for being part of it.

With sword in hand,

W. R. Stanek

The Return of Scott Evers — And Why the Name on the Cover Now Reads W. R. Stanek

Dear Readers,

Some stories never let you go.

Years ago, I introduced Scott Evers—a rogue operative chasing the truth through cyber warfare, global conspiracies, and the kind of shadow battles no one talks about in the open. With The Pieces of the Puzzle and The Cards in the Deck, I stepped into the world of modern thrillers, fusing my love of espionage with tech-driven suspense and gritty realism.

Now, Scott Evers is back.

And this time, he’s returning under a new name: W. R. Stanek.

Who Is W. R. Stanek?

That’s still me—just one part of the writer you’ve come to know.

Over the years, I’ve written under Robert Stanek, William R. Stanek, R. Stanek, and now W. R. Stanek. Why the change? Because it’s time to stop lumping everything together and start building distinct brands—so you, the reader, can find exactly the kind of story you’re looking for.

Here’s the new roadmap:

• W. R. Stanek → Thrillers, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy (Scott Evers, Ruin Mist, etc.)

• R. Stanek → Children’s Books (Bugville Critters and Learn & Explore series)

• Robert Stanek → Historical Fiction (Timeless Voices and beyond)

Think of it as switching lenses—each name reflecting a different facet of storytelling.

Restored. Revised. Relentless.

The Scott Evers books are being re-released in Complete & Uncut Anniversary Editions, with new scenes, tighter pacing, and a deeper dive into the tech-driven world Scott must survive.

Coming August 1, 2025: The Pieces of the Puzzle (20th Anniversary Edition)

The conspiracy that started it all.

Coming February 5, 2027: The Cards in the Deck (10th Anniversary Edition)

A rogue operative. A cyber war fought in silence.

• These aren’t just reprints. They’re reboots with purpose—designed for a new generation of readers and long-time fans ready for deeper immersion, more complexity, and even sharper tension.

Why It Matters

I’ve spent a lifetime writing—over 250 books and counting. But in trying to keep all those worlds under one name, I unintentionally made it harder for readers to connect with the stories they care about most.

That’s why I’m doing things differently now.

• If you love high-stakes thrillers, read W. R. Stanek.

• If you’re raising bright little minds, go to R. Stanek and Bugville.

• If you crave emotional, historically grounded fiction, follow Robert Stanek.

This isn’t fragmentation. It’s refinement.

Because every voice deserves its own place—and so does every reader.

How You Can Support the Relaunch

If you’re a longtime fan, or curious about Scott Evers for the first time, here’s how to help:

• Pre-order the new editions of The Pieces of the Puzzle and The Cards in the Deck.

• Leave a review when the books drop—it makes all the difference.

• Tell a thriller-loving friend about the return of a rogue operative who’s too dangerous to ignore.

• Follow W. R. Stanek on Amazon for future updates.

Pre-order on Amazon now

Thank you for believing in these stories—and in me—through all the chapters. Scott Evers has a few more secrets to uncover. And I can’t wait for you to see what comes next.

With grit and gratitude,

W. R. Stanek

(and always—Robert Stanek)

Bugville Turns 20: New Books, Big Adventures & A Fresh Start!

Dear Friends,

This year, something extraordinary is happening—Bugville turns 20. Two decades ago, I introduced you to a world full of wonder, curiosity, and talking bugs with big ideas. What began in 2005 as a set of audio stories became, in 2007, one of the most expansive children’s book series of its kind.

And now, in 2025, Bugville is back—bigger, bolder, and buzzing with new stories.

Meet the First-Ever Bugville Chapter Books

For the first time ever, Bugville Critters are starring in early chapter books—designed for young readers who are ready to leap into longer, richer adventures. These are stories for kids ages 6–9 who love action, humor, imagination, and heart.

Blast Off with Buster Bee

A Story About Curiosity, Discovery & Outer Space Wonders

Part of the Bugville Critters: Learn & Explore series

For ages 5–8

When Buster dreams of flying through space, he visits every planet in our solar system! This playful STEM adventure introduces kids to science through story, showing that curiosity is where all great discoveries begin.

Perfect for early readers, classrooms, and little astronauts in training.

Buster and the Lost Hive

Traps, Treasure & a Trail of Crumbs

Part of the Bugville Critters: Big Adventures collection

For ages 6–9

Buster Bee imagines himself as Buster Buzzstone, bug archaeologist! Think Indiana Jones meets Magic Tree House. There's a temple to explore, rivals to outsmart, and a secret that could save Bugville!

Action-packed and ideal for reluctant readers who love big stakes and laughs.

Halloween in Bugville

A Story About Celebrations, Surprises & Spooktacular Fun

Part of the Seasonal Stories series

For ages 4–8

A party gone sideways. Decorations in disarray. Lass Ladybug leads a charge to rescue Halloween in true Bugville style—with teamwork, joy, and a little bit of magic.

Great for fall reading, classroom themes, or just a cozy night under a blanket.

The Cracked Cookie Code

A Funny Cozy Mystery for Kids

Part of the Bugville Sleuth Society series

For ages 6–9

Who’s eating all the cookies—and leaving mysterious messages behind? Lass, Dag, and Buster launch a snack-fueled sleuthing mission full of laughter, clues, and one surprise twist that proves friendship always wins.

Ideal for kids who love mysteries, teamwork, and clever critters.

Why It Matters: A Comeback Worth Celebrating

It’s no secret—these past years have been quiet. Life threw more than a few curveballs my way. But the stories never stopped knocking.

Now, with these new books, I’m stepping forward again—not just as a storyteller, but as someone who believes in the power of imagination, laughter, and gentle wisdom for young readers.

Bugville has always been more than a book series. It’s a world built for bright little minds. A place where curiosity is championed, kindness wins, and learning feels like play.

How You Can Help

If Bugville ever meant something to you, here’s how you can help bring it back to life:

Buy or gift one of the new books

Leave a review on Amazon (even 1-2 lines makes a huge difference)

Share with a parent, teacher, or librarian

Write me at info@robertstanek.com—I’d love to hear from you.

Let’s make this Bugville’s best year yet. For the kids who are just now discovering it. For the parents who read these stories at bedtime. And for the little voices inside all of us that still believe in wonder.

With gratitude and hope,

Robert Stanek

Explore the Bugville Books on Amazon

Learn more at robertstanek.com

Why I Write: The Stories You’ve Shared About Me

They say you don’t always know the impact you’ve had until someone tells you.

Over the years, I’ve written hundreds of books—some that sold incredibly well, others that disappeared quietly. I’ve written under my own name, Robert Stanek, and under William R. Stanek. I’ve written about elves and epic battles, about war and loss, about Windows servers and leadership resilience. But the stories that stay with me the most? They’re not just mine. They’re yours.

Recently, a group of authors I’ve mentored, helped, or simply encouraged along the way wrote something extraordinary. They called it “Voices for Stanek.” They didn’t have to write it. No one asked them to. But they did. And it reminded me why I chose this path—not for fame or favor, but to be a voice that lifts others, even when my own voice is shaking.

Here are just a few of the things they said:

“William didn’t just mentor writers—he moved mountains so others could climb them.” – Julia Cook

“Some build empires. William built a community.” – Sandra Brown

“He made me believe I could do this.” – Margaret Brown

“He kicked the gates open and invited us in.” – David Eastman

I won’t lie: the past decade has been hard. Between health battles and industry politics, there were days I thought I was done. But these voices? They’ve pulled me back into the light.

If you’re reading this, maybe you're a writer wondering if your voice matters. Maybe you’re a reader deciding whether to take a chance on one of my books. Maybe you’re just someone who needs a reminder that kindness can echo through decades.

Whatever brought you here, welcome. I hope you’ll find something in my work—whether it’s Lights of Paris or Building Resilience Foundations—that inspires you to keep going, keep dreaming, and keep believing.

Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned from the readers and writers I’ve met, it’s this:

No voice is ever truly lost. Not if we keep listening. Not if we keep writing.

With gratitude and fire in my pen,

Robert (William) Stanek

-

Read the full “Voices for Stanek” tribute on ReadIndies — and if Robert’s work or mentorship ever helped you, please share your story.

Want to write to Robert directly? info@robertstanek.com

Truth Matters: Debunking the Myths, Reclaiming the Story

By Robert Stanek

The fact that some are still trying to tear me down—twenty-four years after the books first debuted—says everything. It shows the books mattered then, and they still matter now. Stories that leave no mark are forgotten. Stories that mean something linger—and clearly, mine have.

For over two decades, I remained mostly silent as misinformation and smear campaigns targeted me and my work. But silence has limits. And today, I speak not with anger, but with truth.

What’s at stake is more than my name—it’s the right of creators to build something meaningful without being shouted down, and the right of readers to decide for themselves what’s worth reading.

They Say I Never Succeeded. Here’s the Truth:

In 2002, Keeper Martin’s Tale and Elf Queen’s Quest debuted as instant bestsellers, spending 26 weeks on Amazon's Sci-Fi & Fantasy Top 50. In 2005, the Ruin Mist books reached #1 on Audible for 14 consecutive weeks and remained in the Kids & YA Top 10 for three years. Today, nearly five million readers have experienced the Ruin Mist world across Amazon, Audible, Playaway, OverDrive, and more.

My works have hit #1 on Audible in Fiction, Kids & YA, and Mystery/Thriller categories. They’ve held Top 10 spots on multiple bestseller lists, including Amazon and Audible, and even topped Amazon’s Free Bestseller charts in Dystopian, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, and Mystery/Thriller.

And yes, those claims are verifiable at the time—that was the point of all the noise in 2002, in 2005, etc: to knock the books off those lists, and they tried to do so by review bombing not just tens of reviews, but hundreds. Real data. Real rankings. Real readers.

They Say I Was Never Featured. Here’s the Truth:

My books and work have been featured in VOYA Magazine (a professional journal for YA librarians), Foreword Magazine, Publisher’s Weekly, The New York Times, Parenting Magazine, Library Journal, School Library Journal, and OverDrive’s “ContentWire for Libraries”. Not to mention citations in respected reference books like The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Elves & Fairies and Popular Series Fiction for Middle School and Teen Readers.

The Journal of Electronic Defense recommended my nonfiction military memoir Stormjammers, and Bugville Critters was praised by Follett Early Learning and Foreword Magazine, even earning recommendation from Parenting Magazine and The Audio Book Store.

These aren’t exaggerations. They’re published facts, many still accessible online and in print.

They Say I Was Never in Libraries. Here’s the Truth:

My books are distributed globally through trusted partners including OverDrive, Findaway World, Playaway, Epic!, Google Play, Apple Books, Kobo, Emusic, Spotify, Ingram Digital, EBSCO, Walmart, ThriftBooks, eLibrary and more.

If you’ve visited a school or public library in the past two decades, there’s a good chance my books have been there. But here's what detractors conveniently ignore: books don’t remain on every shelf forever. Libraries rotate collections. Older titles are cycled out to make room for new ones, especially in children’s and YA sections. This isn’t censorship or conspiracy—it’s basic library science.

So when someone claims “I couldn’t find his book at my local library in 2017,” ask yourself: is that meaningful? Or is it just another talking point designed to erase history?

My books were in libraries when they mattered most—when they were new, relevant, and requested. They were recommended by teachers, librarians, review journals. They were purchased in bulk by school districts and library systems. They were available through OverDrive, Playaway, eLibrary, Findaway, EBSCO and more—platforms built specifically to serve institutions.

And yet the same voices that say, “I checked one library once and didn’t see it,” ignore the receipts. They ignore the letters from educators, the distribution records, the reading guides that list the books as recommended. They ignore the truth—because they’re not looking for it. They’re looking for something they can twist.

What Else the Misinformation Leaves Out

The smears don’t just distort facts—they erase context and strip away the journey. They mock what they don’t understand and attack what they can’t control.

They don’t mention that I wrote over 150 books. That I’m a veteran who served in real-world combat missions. That I’ve helped millions learn and lead through stories, platforms, and persistence.

Instead, they post videos that impersonate journalism while quoting from a known smear blog that’s been debunked for over a decade.

The trolls don’t fear me. They fear the story.

Stories that broke through without gatekeepers. Stories that reached classrooms and libraries without big PR machines. Stories that readers loved and passed along.

Here’s What You Can Do

• Read the books. See for yourself what all the noise tries to drown out.
• Look up the original reviews—from VOYA, from Foreword, from readers who cared.
• Support indie authors who dare to write outside the lines.
• Speak up when you see disinformation weaponized to silence creative voices.

Because what they really want is for you to scroll past, to doubt, to forget. But you don’t have to. You can read. You can remember. You can choose truth.

The story still stands. And so do I.

After the Silence: A Personal Note from Robert Stanek

Dear Friends,

There’s something humbling about starting again—about daring to step forward after so many years away from the light.

When I returned to publishing last winter, I was full of hope and quiet determination. After a decade of silence, illness, and loss, I poured my heart into the Timeless Voices series and the Leadership Intelligence Mastery books—not just because I wanted to write again, but because I needed to. Those stories had been whispering to me through the years I spent in the shadows, waiting patiently for their turn to live.

But the truth is, starting again is hard. Harder than I imagined.

I’ve felt the sting of silence, the weight of invisibility. I’ve wondered if perhaps the world had moved on—if the stories I held so tightly inside me still mattered. I know many of you have been wondering too. Where did I go? Why now? Is he really back?

This is me saying yes—I’m still here. I’m still writing. I’m still dreaming.

And now, more than ever, I need you.

Writing has always been my way of understanding the world—of connecting with it. Whether under Robert Stanek, the dreamer of faraway worlds and historical echoes, or as William R. Stanek, the thinker navigating the intersections of leadership and life—these voices are mine. They are yours, too. Because every story I’ve written was built from the pieces we share: love, loss, growth, fear, resilience.

I’m not asking for applause. I’m not chasing bestseller lists.

I’m asking you to walk with me—book by book, word by word—as I try to rebuild something I thought I’d lost forever: a connection to readers who see value in stories told with heart and purpose.

So here’s what you can do if my words have ever meant something to you:

Pick up a book—Songbird in the Rain, Lights of Paris, August Rains, or even Almost California. Let the characters speak to you.

Leave a review. It doesn’t have to be long—just real.

Share the work with someone who might need a story right now. Stories heal, after all.

Reach out. I’m listening. I’m reading your messages. I’m here.

This isn’t a comeback fueled by marketing. It’s a resurrection of purpose.

From the bottom of my heart—thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s write the next chapter together.

With gratitude and hope,

Robert Stanek (and yes, still William too)

[Explore the Timeless Voices Series]

[Discover the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series]

[Write to Robert — He’ll Read It]

An Open Letter from Robert and William Stanek: Embracing Stories and Insights This Holiday Season

Dear Friends, Readers, and Supporters,

As the twinkling lights of Christmas and the promise of a New Year approach, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey that has brought me to this moment. For many of you, I am known as Robert Stanek, the storyteller behind the “Timeless Voices” series, and as William Stanek, the thought leader at the intersection of science, technology, and business. Today, I want to share a bit about my journey, the challenges I’ve faced, and the exciting works that await you this holiday season.

The Lost Decade: A Time of Challenge and Creation

The past decade has been a period of profound transformation for me, both personally and professionally. Due to health issues, I was unable to publish much under either of my names, William Stanek or Robert Stanek. Many of my loyal readers know that alongside my writing, I dedicated nearly 20 years to working with Microsoft, producing close to one million words annually. Those “little pocket consultants” may have seemed compact, but they were densely packed with insights and strategies. The “Inside Out,” and “Administrator’s Reference” books, each weighing in at around 500,000 words, were a testament to that relentless effort.

While it might seem like the decade was lost to writing, the truth is more nuanced. Although many manuscripts found themselves entangled in the lengthy editorial process—a process often as long as or longer than the writing itself—my passion for storytelling never waned. Countless stories remain in various stages of development, waiting for their moment to shine. Today, I am thrilled to unveil the culmination of these efforts: the “Timeless Voices” series—a collection of historical fiction novels that bridge the gap between my analytical past and my creative present.

Introducing the “Timeless Voices” Series

The “Timeless Voices” series invites you to journey through pivotal moments in history, each novel offering a unique window into the lives of individuals striving for love, justice, and self-discovery. Here’s a glimpse into the stories that await you:

Journey Through the Ages

The Lights of Paris

Set against the revolutionary backdrop of 1870s Paris, follow Eloise, a passionate nurse, and her courageous friends as they navigate war, love, and the fight for a just society. Amidst barricades and hospital wards, their stories illuminate the profound costs of conflict and the enduring hope for a brighter future.

August Rains

Transport yourself to 1950s small-town America, where John Anderson, a dedicated teacher and principal, grapples with preserving cherished traditions at Jane’s School. Through moments of joy and heartbreak, John’s journey explores the deep bonds of community, the power of memory, and the quiet strength required to honor the past while embracing change.

Songbird in the Rain

Experience the vibrant and tumultuous 1970s Wisconsin, where Lena Carter dreams of a life defined by music while her love, Tommy, faces the uncertainty of the Vietnam War. As Lena pours her heart into songwriting, she must navigate the complexities of love, identity, and the relentless pursuit of her dreams amidst societal upheaval and personal sacrifice.

Almost California

Journey into the 1980s small-town Wisconsin, where Bob and his circle of friends grapple with life, loss, and the quest for self-discovery. Amidst the backdrop of vibrant 1980s music, Bob faces his own dark secrets while supporting his friends through their hidden struggles. As they navigate the challenges of senior year, friendship, love, and the desire to escape their pasts intertwine, leading them to confront what it truly means to find oneself and build a future worth holding on to.

Introducing the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series

In addition to my foray into historical fiction, my commitment to leadership and personal development continues through the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series, authored as William R. Stanek. “Building Resilience Foundations: A 2-Week Action Plan for Leadership Success” is the first book in this transformative series, designed to empower leaders with the tools and mindset needed to thrive under pressure. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this guide offers actionable strategies to develop emotional resilience, enhance decision-making, and foster a positive work culture.

Why Add These Books to Your Holiday and New Year Reading List?

1. Diverse and Enriching Content

The “Timeless Voices” series offers immersive historical narratives that transport you to different eras, while the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series provides practical insights for personal and professional growth. Together, they cater to both your desire for captivating stories and your ambition for leadership excellence.

2. Perfect Holiday Gifts

Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for a history enthusiast or a budding leader, these books make thoughtful and impactful presents that will be cherished long after the holidays.

3. Reflect and Inspire

The themes of resilience, love, and self-discovery resonate deeply during the holiday season, a time for reflection and new beginnings. These books provide both inspiration and entertainment, making them ideal companions for your festive moments.

4. Support the Journey

By adding these books to your collection, you’re supporting a journey that intertwines creative storytelling with actionable leadership strategies, embodying the essence of perseverance and passion.

A Heartfelt Invitation

This Christmas and New Year, I invite you to explore both the “Timeless Voices” series and the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series. Let these books become a cherished part of your holiday tradition, offering both escape and reflection as you celebrate the season and look forward to the year ahead.

“Timeless Voices”—where every era speaks its own story, and every story echoes through time.

“Building Resilience Foundations”—unlock the power of resilience for leadership success.

Join Us on This Journey

Perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale, Helen Simonson’s The Summer Before the War, and Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet in Heaven, the “Timeless Voices” series invites you to embark on a journey through history’s most transformative moments. Similarly, “Building Resilience Foundations” is ideal for those seeking to enhance their leadership skills and build a resilient mindset.

Thank You for Your Support

Your support has been the cornerstone of my journey. As both Robert and William Stanek, I am excited to share these stories and insights that have been years in the making, born from both my challenges and my unyielding passion for storytelling and leadership excellence. Let “Timeless Voices” and the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series become treasured parts of your holiday reading, offering both escape and reflection as you celebrate the season and embrace the year ahead.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with love, warmth, and unforgettable stories.

Warm regards,

Robert and William Stanek

Explore the “Timeless Voices” Series | Discover the Leadership Intelligence Mastery Series