$Folks, please read this entire post. Don’t skim it. This is important.
These are the words of my friend and fellow author, Brandon Barr, as written this past week in his final days as his body is ravaged by leukemia:
“Fantasy fiction is a blessing in that it allows authors to tell heroic stories that WE need to hear. We may sit in an office chair half the day, or be stuck in traffic, or need to get groceries, or this or that; but fantasy fiction touches deep into something that humans long for. That under our suits and ties or tee-shirt and jeans, we have a hero or heroine inside of us. They may be timid, but this heroic person inside of us is an admirer of fantasy stories where they can identify with the characters, root and cheer for them, and in some cases, want to be them (even if the going is very difficult). We long to fix the world by going on a quest, or throwing the One Ring into Mount Doom, or playing out some great prophetic role like Paul Atreides in Frank Herbert’s sci-fi fantasy classic, Dune.”
Who among us could find the strength to write such hopeful and inspiring words in our final moments while suffering from such a terrible and painful disease?
Brandon. That’s who. And he’s been doing it for years.
The first three books of his Song of the Worlds series are now available on Amazon, beginning with Rise of the Seer. Certainly, please go get the books, but first I’d like to tell you a bit about them, and a bit about Brandon.
The story is brilliant: two women from distant enchanted worlds, bound together by prophecy and destiny. Huge stakes, deeply developed characters, war, heroism, magic… a true epic in every sense of the word – but what’s even more remarkable is that these books have been written while Brandon has been literally fighting for his life. If you know anyone with this disease, you already know: it’s a toss up what is more painful; the disease itself or the treatments… and the physical pain is only one part of the equation. Brandon has a wife and three young boys, and since 2015, he has had two bone marrow transplants, and has gone back and forth repeatedly between being in complete remission and on the brink of passing away. Just this February a biopsy showed NO signs of leukemia, and the battle seemed won. But the leukemia returned with a vengeance last month, and now he is out of treatment options. He is still with us for now (we love you Brandon!) but, tragically, his time is short.
Throughout this hellish rollercoaster ride, Brandon has been writing, and in his work, he explores that single most pressing, existential question we all ponder: why? If there is a God, why does He allow such suffering to exist? In Rise of the Seer, through his character Winter’s eyes, we see Brandon’s poignant and personal exploration of the struggle with faith and doubt. We see Aven’s fear for those he loves; an allegorical representation of the fear Brandon carries for his own family’s security after he’s gone. We see Meluscia’s search for unknowable answers to timeless questions, and her struggle for peace amidst the recognition of her own shortcomings.
More than simply being entertaining, these books are a true window into the soul and mind of a beautiful man, husband, and father who is facing his own pain, doubt, and mortality with courage, grace, and poise. If you’re a fantasy reader, or if these questions are important in your own journey through life, you absolutely must read these books. Rise of the Seer is just $2.99 right now, and free on Kindle Unlimited. The next two books are available for pre-order as well.
And I have something else to ask of you.
Above all else, Brandon’s biggest concern right now is for the security of his family after he’s gone. We can’t do anything to prolong his life, but we can give him some peace of mind as his journey comes to an end. We can support the GoFundMe that has been set up for his devoted, loving wife and three young sons.
I googled this the other day: it costs an average of $233,000 to raise a child to adulthood these days. (If you’re a parent, you know that’s no exaggeration.) Brandon has three beautiful young boys whom he will not be able to provide for any longer. Please, contribute to the GoFundMe. Or at the very least, go to the page and share it on social media.
Better yet: go buy all the books, share a link to the Amazon page, then go to the GoFundMe, contribute, and share that, too. And leave him a message on the GoFundMe page, while you’re at it. Your love, prayers, and encouragement are welcome and needed.
Thanks everyone. I know you’ll help all you can, and I know you’ll love Brandon’s books.
Update as of 10/27: Brandon has left the hospital and is currently at home with his family, and after a very rough few days, his pain seems to be more under control. He’s been writing and Facebooking and videochatting with us all, working hard (as always) to get his books launched. You wanna know what a dedicated author looks like? Here ya go:
Brandon Barr, ladies and gentlemen. A writing warrior to the bitter end. (He’s not sleeping on the job folks… just a quick little nap between chapters! Ha!) We love you buddy, so much. We will miss you terribly. Don’t worry about your family – we got this. Promise.
Have been praying for you and your family since before the bone marrow transplants, and can barely see through my tears as I write this. You are an amazing person and a true hero.
Somewhen in a future time and space I will finally meet you face to face. Until then, I will encounter you through your stories, as your spirit and soul lives on in them. God bless you.
I have said a prayer for you and yours Brandon. Though we are not able to understand our Lord’s reasoning, I believe that HE and HIS SON, Jesus Christ will welcome you and will take special care to watch over and help support your family through all of the days ahead. Do not lose your faith and know that there are many of us that you do not know and that may not write to you are saying prayers for you and yours.
Please, Lord, support Brandon and his family forever more. Amen.
I hope you get well soon Brandon
Prayers for him and his family.😢
Very interesting I would enjoy this alot
I found out about the sad news last week. I truly had high hopes that he would be doing better after the positive email he sent on his mailing list several months ago.
It’s heartbreaking that he doesn’t have much time left because he’s both a phenomenal writer and has a lovely family. I’m short of cash right now, but I’ll try to make the effort to put forth a small donation. I do plan on reading more of his books as well. I read one of them a few years ago and enjoyed it. I also read one of his short stories and gave it a deserving 5 stars.
I applaud the fantasy writing community for starting this GoFundMe page in support for this author whose life is being injustly cut short. Thank you for writing such beautiful stories Brandon!!!
So sorry prayers for you and the family.
So much love and prayers for you and your family.
What amazing strength of mind and obvious love for his craft that he could pen those words given his current health.
Inspiring in itself and quite moving.
Can’t promise a financial contribution but will definitely spread word of the GoFundMe page
We love you Brandon. Sending hugs, prayers and Blessings to you and your family!💕
Brandon Barr you are an inspiration to us all. I am praying for you and your livery family. I am sorry that I am on a fixed income and can not help right now but I will when I can.
Brandon. I am a single father of three and have experienced much loss. In ways I can certainly relate to you and your familesn situation. If I was financially able to give I would but please know my sincerest and deepest prayers go out on behalf of you and your family.
Brandon, you’ve been an amazing trooper through all the pain, both physical and emotional. I admire your fortitude and your dedication to the things that are important to you both your stories and your family. I consider myself lucky to have my ex-husband around after his recent bought with lung cancer. And all I can say is that the only thing, right now that you can do, is love your family and know that they will be looked after. We all love you and the stories you blessed us with. Now, it’s time to rest easy! Love you, with all my heart!
I am not able to do much but buy the books and keep you all in my prayers.
I agree with all that has been said in the above, the books are a great read, books 4 and 5 will also be published so the readers will not be left in the lurch and Brandon is a great author and a very good man who will sorely be missed! support him and his family all you can, please go out and buy his books for a start!
Brandon God is holding uou up. You are blessed and a blessing. Go as long as you can. You family and friends are with you always
That is a BEAUTIFUL post!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My heart goes out to him and his family. This is so sad, my mom passed away 7 months ago from cancer. It’s a horrible disease that needs to be eradicated from the face of the Earth. May the Angels bless him and family.😥😥😥
Prayers, burning candles and sage and special thoughts for you Brandon and family…stay strong
Prayers
Sending love ❤️
Our prayers are with you and your family!
Today’s email lists books and says “below are all Brandon’s available stories, both free and for sale!” What about Rogue Mage with Michael Anderie, After the Cross with Mike Lynch, and American Midnight. Won’t sales of any of these provide some income to the Barrs?
Yes Gerry! I know we are pushing the new releases right now to hopefully get them to climb the charts, but everyone is welcome to all of Brandon’s work!
Forgot to add I think it’s wonderful what you all are doing for Brandon and his family. He’s one of my favorite authors and I’m going to order the books I don’t currently have.
Thoughts are with you and your family! Love you!
I have purchased all of Brandon’s books over the past couple of years. I have read all his newsletters. He is truly a great man and I know he will be missed. I will miss his newsletters. Go in peace Brandon for you are truly loved.
You’ve been and will continue to be an inspiration for so many of us.
Hi Brandon,
You amazes me. You are so strong.
You are not well, and still you are going on, a drive, to get all the stories out of your head. Wonderful.
You are an inspiration to me, and most likely to others.
Thank you Brandon, Love and good health in Jesus Name.
Gigi Sedlmayer
God Bless you Brandon…
A warrior to the end.. keep in fighting because you got this..
Thinking of you at this awful time for you and your family.
To help I have just brought all your books on kindle.
This is so sad…
My thought and prayers go to the family.
Wish them all the courage they need and be them surrounded by the love and support af friends and family.
God bless you and your wonderful family, Brandon. I have enjoyed your books and will continue to remember you with every reading and re-reading! You are leaving a legacy in writing as well as with your darling boys.
Many hugs and prayers coming your way! ♥
I’m so sorry to hear about your journey in life about to end. I love your books Brandon and I will keep you and your family in my prayers. You are such a wonderful and talented person. God bless you on your journey back to him.
I want to wish Brandon the best of luck in his last days. I am sending prayers for Brandon and his family during this time.
Thank you Brandon for taking the time to write books 📚 for all of us who are also scared and doing the best we can in our lives . We would also like to be the one who saves the day for those we love. God bless you and your family.
Brandon my heart and prayers go out to you. I love reading your books, thank you so much.
I ordered Mr. Barr’s book through KU. It looks like it’s right up my alley and I wanted to try to help somehow. Please know that, although I am a stranger, Mr. Barr and his family will be in my thoughts and prayers. I know it’s not much, but many are hoping for the best for the entire Barr family.
you are in our prayers.
I doubt that I would have the strength of character to do as Brandon is and has done. A man with a family is a very formidable motivator if love and knowing Jesus is present. I can think of no other combination that would allow Brandon and his family to experience and cope with such a debilitating disease.
My admiration and prayers are with you sir. While not nearly as important, my nominal financial support goes to you as well.
Love your books my thoughts and love go to you and your family
Keeping you and your family in my prayers
They say only the good die young. Great to hear but not much consolation to you for leaving your growing family and them missing out on their father every day of every year.
Brandon you leave them knowing that they are loved and with a great legacy of being able to know part of your amazing mind now and when they are old enough to read your amazing books.
They will know that you fought for them until the end and will watch over them. Be the brightest star in the sky.
Take care and my thoughts are with you and your family and friends 🙏🙏🙏
I am certainly going to be buying your books, Brandon. My younger brother by 3 years died 3 years ago of an aggressive brain tumour, and my siblings and I accompanied him on the journey from his diagnosis to the end. I admire you for pouring forth your heart and mind, both open to inspiration as you follow where life is taking you. Thank you for pouring your time, energy and focus into this writing which is left as a legacy that can touch and inspire us. God be with you, now and always!
I am overwhelmed by all of your sweet comments. My family and I are so thankful to have found such a wonderful community of readers and writers, and for me personally, it has been the culmination of 15 years of writing to be at this point now. Even though it is the end of life, I feel such peace. The Song of the Worlds series has been the work of my heart, and the fact that some of my great and talented author friends have reached out to me with the desire to see my vision for the series come to fruition is simply amazing!
My love and thankfulness to all of you!!
Brandon, I don’t know where you live or your nationality.
I am a retired 82nd Airborne veteran and can see the spirit of a warrior in you. You’ve honed your skills and earned the respect of your brothers in arms. Write (fight) to the end!
It is time to add to my library of great authors.
Thank you DK Holmberg for sharing this wonderful man’s story. Brandon, my hopes and prayers are with you and your family. Please keep up the good fight and never stop writing.
Brandon, you are an amazing strong man, an inspiration to all and a great role model for your children. Please try to find peace in this time and enjoy your family. I hope you can feel all the love being sent your way from the whole reading / writing community. Your books are a gift to the world. Sending love. I’ve bought your books and tweeted this page. Thank you for all the fun I’ve had reading and rereading your work. I am a stranger to you, but you’re in my thoughts. 💗
I’m praying for you and family peace be with you all believe in the lord our god he is cradling you in hi arms , Edie
Having lost my grandfather to cancer this truly pulls on my heartstrings. Though I am not currently in a position to purchase all of Brandon’s books, I have bought Rise of the Seer. Lets see how high we can push his rankings.
Brandon, I don’t know how you are feeling, but I know what it’s like to struggle. I have had muscular dystrophy all my life and it’s not getting any better, however I have a hope a faith that I will share with you in case you don’t have it already.
1Co 15:51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
1Co 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
1Co 15:53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
1Co 15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
1Co 15:55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
1Co 15:56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
1Co 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
By the way, I bought your latest book and it is very good. I look forward to finishing it.
God Speed,
Dennis Michael Montgomery
Just joined John’s page and an sorry to read about your struggles. Make tapes for your boys telling them how much you love them, one for each boy so that they can see you even when you’re no longer here. No matter how many times you tell them that you love them it’s never enough. Write them letters etc. Because they will need to hear you telling them later as they grow up. Praying for you and your family. May God give you strength. A concerned friend.
So sorry .Will be thinking of you all
I haven’t yet read any of Brandon Barr’s work but he has been a blessing by sharing his dreams through his writing. I shall certainly buy those mentioned and make some donation to help his family.
It is most important, though, that Brandon know that God loves him and will watch over his wife and 3 boys.
I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers, Brandon.
GOD’S GRACE and MERCY to you and your family .
Brandon –
I don’t know you, but I know people like you. Recently we lost Charles Krauthammer – a brilliant young man with a brilliant future ahead of him, who became a paraplegic as a young man. His goodbye letter was an inspiration to us all.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/a-note-to-readers/2018/06/08/3512010c-6b24-11e8-bea7-c8eb28bc52b1_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.35ebcaaa65ee
I trust that in your final efforts you will find time to leave a letter of your own – not to the world, like Charles, but to your sons who will cherish it as they become adults… and who will want to share it with their children…
Blessings on you and all your loved ones.
My prayers and love from the beginning, have been with Brandon, Amanda and the three lovely kids. And will always pray for them, a true example of strength and love. May you always be surrounded with loving blessings from above.🙏❤️
My prayers and thoughts are with Brandon and his family. AND all his friends as well. It hurts my heart so much to know that we will loose such a blessed soul. It is an honor to have know him for a short period of time and to read his books! ♡
His story touch my heart. I is added to my prayer list. My God be with him and his family.
Hey Brandon, this was written for me long ago and I believe you will love this.
“This year will bring many good things in the form of troublesome times so I thank GOD for them, regardless of what my WEAKNESS thinks and feels. Through this suffering I am changing my self-concept physically, mentally and spiritually. Each day brings this suffering closer to it’s end. Each thought increases my understanding. Each Decision increases my resolve. I am stronger now and will become stronger still, valuing myself only that I can value others more. I know that at the end of these times I will kneel and say to GOD “IT WAS GOOD, THANK YOU”. For truly HE lets the darkness grow, that I may see the stars….my home.
Brandon I have had you and your family in my prayers for a few years now and I’m at a loss for words. I purchased ALL your books 18 months ago. If there are any new ones after that, which I’m pretty sure there are then consider them sold. I have lost my father to cancer just four months ago and my sister has it and all my family on my dads side. I hate this disease with a vengeance and you are an incredible person to have struggled this long and yet your still writing. That’s dedication for you. I am in tears at the moment and I have never even met you but you ALWAYS respond to my comments on your Facebook page and what an incredible attitude you have. I really thought you were going to beat this disease. Your an inspiration to us all and I’m still pulling for you. I am saddened by this awful news. It is not fair. You have a beautiful wife and 3 handsome sons whom will keep your memory alive, as the book industry will also. Wishing you peace and love during these last days. I am on a fixed income so I’m not able to donate to your gofundme page but you better believe I will be checking the rest of your books out. I just won a amazon gift card so what great timing eh. God bless you and your family. Wish I could give you a hug but sending lots of cyber hugs to you Brandon.
Your such an inspiration. May God Bless you and your family, at times like this it’s hard to hold onto your faith, but God has this. I’ve read quite a few of your books, in the beginning I didn’t think I’d like them, but after starting one I had to keep reading because I couldn’t put the first down till I finished it. And just like I couldn’t put down your books, God won’t stop just because you question him. Thank you for giving us a part of you, for giving up your time to keep us entertained. May peace be with you.
Brandon, your bravery is as inspiring as your works. Sending prayers to you and your family with love and respect, brother.
Dear Brandon, I too am fighting every day as I have asbestosis and only have use of 20% of my lungs and it’s very hard for me as I have always been active in hunting and sports and am very limited now. But I can’t imagine how hard it’s been for you and your family,but I wanted to tell you there is always hope and miracles do happen and all things are possible in God. My wife’s uncle had cancer and was told to get things prepared that he only had a short time but through the power of prayer and Gods grace he got better and all signs of cancer left him. That was over 10 years ago and he’s still going strong. So I’m saying don’t give up the fight and believe in miracles . I purchased your book Rise of the Seer and am only sorry that I never got it sooner,it’s a great book and you are a great author,one of my new favorites.I am praying for Gods blessing of a miracle for you and your wonderful family so you have lots more time with them and can bless us your friends and fans with your stories.
So sorry to hear this news . Prayers for you and your family Brandon .
Brandon, your strength and dedication are such an inspiration! Words cannot describe the heartbreak I felt when I heard the news. My prayers are with you and your family. It will be an honor to meet you on the other side!
My prayers are with you and your family. Look forward to reading your books.
Brandon: The biggest hero in my life was my brother. We as a family went through similar circumstances. My brother received a kidney transplant It kept him relatively well for 25 years. But the anti rejection drugs caused liver failure which in turn destroyed his kidney. He struggled with so many difficulties infections being one of them he never lost faith in God nor complained. He lost his battle 5 years ago in May just remember you are leaving behind a far greater legacy than just your books. Your courage to fight your faith in a loving God and your dignity will forever be remembered These will be what encourages your beautiful family to persevere. Hoping for a miracle and asking God’s richest blessings upon you
Your stories inspired me to have a go at writing my own novel, thanks you for everything you have done to inspire this sarcastic old git to have a go after years of considering yet never actually putting pen to paper beyond writing d&d plotlines.
Loved the book and have all the others set as pre orders on amazon for whenever they are available.
Once again thank you for helping inspire me and many others, your courage will no doubt be noted once you reach the next level of existance 🙂
So sorry to hear of your illness. May you stay in the palms of His hands.
Brandon, prayers for you and your family, I will be getting your books and reading them with you close to my heart. May you find total healing soon.
Brandon, I know I said this to you privately, but I also wanted to say it publicly. Our hearts are with you and your family. You’re an inspiration to us all. Stay with it as best you can–you amaze me.
Brandon, when I was at a low point myself I happened to enter a contest and started getting your newsletters and than I won a contest about you using my name in a novella contest😄 You MADE this 74 year old senior gal so HAPPY. You sent me emails that helped to end some of the loneliness that I was dealing with and being stuck at home all the time from my disabilities and for that, young man, you will always be my “SUPER HERO”😉
Brandon, My heart and prayers go out to you and your family, I have been informed of your illness by 3 different authors, It is nice to know you have friends, God bless you.
Brandon, it has to be a wonderful moment to realize that you will continue after your earthly body has given up. I know all of these things have been said but I feel compelled to just say… Think of all the people your books will touch and will uplift them now and as long as there are books and readers in the future. You are blessed to have 3 young men (I will call them men for they will be someday) to be there as strength for your loving wife so she can be strong now and later. Just think of how proud those boys will be to show their children and grandchildren how their dad through his writings touched the hearts of so many people… That is a Legacy to stand the test of time. I pray for your comfort and peace, as well as, prayers for your wife and children…
Brandon sorry to hear that it’s come back but I know that you will not let it get you and you will be in my prayers and you are a great role model to you come in contact by personal or through your web site and books love you and your books
Such sad news about Brandon, I cant do much as a pension only stretches so far, but I will buy all his books, maybe twice!
Love and best wishes to this family who were strangers, but I now think of as friends.
Brandon, I pray for your strength to continue your fight and to take away your pain.
I pray for your wife and children that they will find strength within each other to one day find peace.
Hi! I’m a cancer survivor, Brandon. I survived metastatic brain cancer in 1995. I’m living proof that you can beat this evil! I pray you can.
Will pray that the Good Lord will watch over you and your family.
Pippin: I didn’t think it would end this way.
GANDALF: End? No, the journey doesn’t end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it.
PIPPIN: What? Gandalf? See what?
GANDALF: White shores, and beyond, a far green country under a swift sunrise.
PIPPIN: Well, that isn’t so bad.
I hope it isn’t so bad and you find the green country. I will buy your whole series not only because it sounds really good but because I want to support someone who could be one of my family never met.
Brandon, prayers to you and your family! God is with you always and will be with your family always. You are an amazing author, and strong, brave and courageous, while being scared inside. You have been blessed, and are blessed. Hugs hugs to you amd your family.
You are still in my heart and thoughts. After the flurry of messages it appears to have gone quiet, so I wanted to let you know that you haven’t been forgotten. Every day I think about you and your family, trying to send positive thoughts your way.
Oh the email I just got talked about how Brandon has now passed away. I’m so sorry for the passing of this obviously incredible author. I had only just learned of him. He is with the Lord now and it brings to mind one of my favorite verses in Revelation. Revelation 21:4, “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”
I’ll definitely be checking out his books. Thank you so much for sharing his story.