A Remembrance of Euan Harvey

I had thought today I would finally talk about my blog tour. Instead, somewhat numb and dumbstruck, I find myself writing a remembrance.

I just learned that Euan Harvey has passed away.

I first knew Euan from my days helming the first issues of Flashing Swords and frequenting the old SFReader discussion board. He was a fine fellow and a talented writer with a tireless work ethic. He never gave up. It was my privilege to read many of his stories, and to forward them on to Black Gate‘s John O’Neill. And it was my pleasure to receive Euan’s feedback on my own fiction, some of which was so insightful I still reflect on it when considering unrelated works.

Euan was public about his battle with cancer, and with it apparently in remission I was thinking he might have a while left. He, his family, his friends, and his readers deserved much longer.

I cannot claim to have known Euan especially well, but I held him in high regard and had a great deal of respect for him as both a human being and a writer. He was my friend, and I am deeply saddened by his loss. I cannot begin to imagine how those closest to him must feel.

If you knew him, his family, or his work, I hope that you will put them in your prayers or thoughts.

John has just posted a more complete reflection at Black Gate, and other obituaries and remembrances are sure to follow. Douglas Cohen worked with him extensively, and has posted a very thoughtful essay.