Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Big Announcement! Plus Movies – Captain America 3, Underworld Next Generation, The Colony - Battle of the Bands, Mini-Alex, and Ninja News

Movie News and Review

Roland Yeomans was just as excited about this as I was – Robert Downey Jr. is in final negotiations to appear in Captain America 3. You can read all the details at io9


According to JoBlo, we’re getting more than just Underworld: Next Generation! From director Len Wiseman:
“There’s a few things being developed right now. There are some characters who we really liked that will be in a kind of a spin-off like we did with ‘Rise of the Lycans,’ then we have another film in the works with Kate [Beckinsale] as well, and then there’s a television series. So we’re expanding that universe in many ways….”

Review – The Colony
Forced underground by the next ice age, a struggling outpost of survivors must fight to preserve humanity against a threat even more savage than nature. A post-apocalyptic thriller starring Laurence Fishburne and Bill Paxton.
This film was panned when it was released and I have no idea why. It’s not a huge movie nor will change your life, but it’s well done and solid. Just think small scale. The acting is good and there are some tense moments.
Worth a rental and available on NetFlix as a Watch Now.


Ninja News


Don’t forget next Monday is the Survive and Thrive Bloghop!




New releases -

A Boy and His Toy by Pat Hatt

Remake by Ilima Todd

Twisted Earths from the Untethered Realms authors, including Christine Rains, Angela Brown, M. Pax, Cherie Reich, Catherine Stine, Gwen Gardner, Misha Gerrick, and more!



Story Sprouts the 2014 compilation from Children's Book Writers of Los Angeles, compiled by Nutschell Anne Windsor

Cover reveal and coming soon –
Vitamins and Death by Medeia Sharif
YA Contemporary, Prizm Books
Release Date December 10, 2014

Battle of the Bands

Welcome to Battle of the Bands! Founded by Stephen T McCarthy and Faraway Eyes. You know the routine – pick your favorite Whiskey in the Jar.

First up is the original by Thin Lizzy


Next is the remake by Metallica


Results next Wednesday!

Mini-Alex

A friendly reminder that Christmas is about two months away!!!


The Big Announcement!

The ink is dry and it’s official – my next book is a go!

Slated for release next spring, probably because I took so darn long to write it.

A stand-alone space opera not set in the Cassan universe.

Here’s the title and the working synopsis:

Dragon of the Stars

The future is set for Lt. Commander Aden Pendar, son of a Hyrathian Duke. He’s poised to secure his own command and marriage to the queen’s daughter. He’ll stop at nothing to achieve his goals.

But when the Alliance denies Hyrath’s claim on the planet of Kavil and declares war on their world, Aden finds his plans in disarray. Entrenched in battle and told he won’t make captain, Aden’s world begins to collapse. How will he salvage his career and future during Hyrath’s darkest hour?

One chance remains–the Dragon. Lost many years prior, the legendary ship’s unique weapon is Hyrath’s only hope. Can Aden find the Dragon, save his people, and prove he’s capable of commanding his own ship?

And since you all wanted to know about the song that inspired it… (Lyrics kick in at the 1:00 minute mark.)



When I first heard Ayreon’s Dragon on the Sea, released over ten years ago, I envisioned a dragon space ship in battle. Using the lyrics to guide me, I rearranged them to create a new story. That’s why I couldn’t reveal the song because its title and lyrics were so close to the story.

I set out to write one book.

Dragon of the Stars with be number four.

Whoa…

Excited for the next Underworld and Captain America movies? Seen The Colony? See some new books to buy? Ready for Christmas? Which song is your BOTB favorite? And can someone explain how a fourth book happened, because it doesn’t seem real…?

168 comments:

Anonymous said...

You have an amazing title for your book. I can't wait to read it.

I love Metallica, but prefer Thin Lizzy here.

Thank you for sharing my cover.

RaveAir said...

Wow! Great news! According to the synopsis your next book sounds interesting. Next spring you said?

May the fourth/force be with you! ;)

The Happy Whisk said...

Top of the mornin' and congrats.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Congratulations Alex. The title is awesome. 'Dragon of the Stars'. And from the synopsis it sounds super interesting.

Dani said...

That is BIG news indeed and it sounds amazing too!
I love the marvel universe and what is happening with it movie wise.

Murees Dupè said...

Congratulations on your new book! I am an Underworld fan, so yeah, can't wait for the new one to come out.

Jemi Fraser said...

So awesome!! Love the title and the whole concept sounds fabulous - can't wait!! Congrats :)

Miranda Hardy said...

Congrats Alex! That is great news.

I caught The Colony last weekend and enjoyed it. It was very entertaining and suspenseful.

Pat Hatt said...

Awesome news about RDJ indeed. But if they are doing the civil war thing, as of now it makes very little sense. None of them have secret identities. They all know who ironman is, many know who the hulk is, thor is thor, captain america is Rogers, none of them try and hide. Hawkeye and widow don't wear masks. So umm kind of pointless at the moment lol unlesss of course they just want them all to register or something.

Congrats on the great news indeed, a dragon ship, great idea.

Rusty Carl said...

Congrats on the new book! Maybe you like writing more than you thought you did.

And Cap 3. Awesome. I hope it's more of the Winter Soldier and not the rumored Civil War storyline. I mean, if I get to chose what they do and all.

DRC said...

Yay! So, RDJ in Captain America 3? And the new Iron Man 4 too...lots to look forward to :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Medeia, thanks, and you're welcome.

Zoltan, next spring!

Murees, you are uber cool.

Miranda, I enjoyed The Colony. Don't think it got a fair shake.

Pat, I don't know the actual storyline, so no idea how they are going to work out that issue.

Rusty, you helped make it happen!

Brian Miller said...

dude...captain america 3 sounds like it is going to be amazing...and wonder if they will spin that out into other movies as well...heh..

Julie Dao said...

I think stupid blogger ate my comment but basically I said CONGRATS!!!! You deserve this! The book sounds great!!!

ediFanoB said...

Lunch time. I'm sitting in the office and I'm really tired because I did not sleep well last night.

Then I read your post which had the same effect as an energy drink!

AWESOME NEWS!

Congratulations!
All the Ninja Army members are dancing around tables.

4 (four) is a number, numeral, and glyph. It is the natural number following 3 and preceding 5. Four is the only number that has the same number of characters as its value in the English language. [From Wikipedia]

That means you are just in the middle between book three and five ;-)


Spring in 2015 will get exciting ....

mshatch said...

Congrats on book # 4! and thanks for the review of Colony; I think I'll netflix it :)

Julie Flanders said...

Congrats on #4!! Yay! And that is a fantastic title. Sounds like another excellent read.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

Ninja powers surpass explanation. I love the name and premise of your fourth book. I love also that you're allowing your braincells to travel where they will. Congratulations, Alex. You're unstoppable!

xoRobyn

H. R. Sinclair said...

Wow! Congrats on completion and a release date!

Ready for Christmas? Are you kidding me?

Anonymous said...

I'm leery of another Underworld, after that last one. *cringe* But I love Kate Beckinsale in the first two movies, so, I'll probably still go/Redbox another one with her in it. I'm very interested in the spin-off movie. Slightly in the series.

4th book! hehe One can dream!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks, Julie - and sorry about that.

Edi, glad the news energized you! And book five? The horrors...

Marcy, thanks, and go watch it.

Robyn, thanks - I'm something all right.

Holly, it's coming...

Kyra Lennon said...

Congrats on your upcoming book, Alex!

Juliana Haygert said...

Congrats on the new book! Love the title!

Jeremy [Retro] said...

Okay, Iron Man in anything... awesome. I had seen the film the JUDGE over the weekend with the wife and we enjoyed it. It was a sad then happy then sad then happy kind of film.

Congrats on the latest project you are questing on.. you know I am ready for a full assault on getting the word out.

I prefer Metallica version...

Have a great day!

Jeremy

StratPlayerCJF said...

I must confess that I'm pretty much out of the loop on newer movies -- I'd never even heard of The Colony. But it sounds decent.

Welcome back to the BOTB! I very, very much prefer Phil Lyontt's vocals to Metallica's, but musically Metallica's version is definitely better so I have to give them the vote.

And that "Dragon on the Sea" is a cool and really evocative and theatrical song -- I can see why it would inspire you! And I'm glad it did!!! Best of luck with the new book!

Luanne G. Smith said...

What a cool inspiration for your novel! And congrats on the spring release. Sounds awesome.

Cherie Reich said...

Congrats, Alex! I'm looking forward to reading it!

S.A. Larsenッ said...

OMGosh ... more Underworld? #faints #YES!!!

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Congratulations, Alex!

Charles Gramlich said...

I always enjoy Bill Paxton movies.

L.G. Keltner said...

Congratulations on your awesome book news! It sounds amazing!

Christine Rains said...

Congratulations! That's awesome news. And I love the sound of it. I can't believe Christmas is so close. My mom will be visiting the first week of November, and I do most of my holiday shopping with her then. We just need somewhere to hide the gifts in the house where my little guy won't find them!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks, Jeremy! And Metallica is my favorite.

Chris, I like what they did with the song. And yeah, Dragon is a really great song.

Sheri, you are über cool!

Christine, good luck hiding them.

Thanks everyone!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations, Alex! Your book is gonna rock (get it?).

I'm a huge Metallica fan. Old Metallica. When they really played heavy metal. I wasn't a big fan of their remake. Thin Lizzy's is exactly how that song should sound. I think Metallica did a poor job covering it.

Enjoy your week! The numbers are dwindling on Face Off….

Karen Lange said...

Congratulations Alex! That is great news! :)

Catherine Stine said...

Yay for the greenlight on your newest novel, Dragon of the Stars! Sounds like a fascinating read. Yay for the release of Twisted Earths, and congrats to Medeia on her newest.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

Excited about your book! What a fantastic title.

We haven't seen the second Captain America yet...need to!

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Congratulations on the new book, Alex! You are meant to be a writer. :)

And I'll have to check out The Colony - sounds pretty good.

kaykuala said...

Congrats on your new book, Alex! You're so prolific in getting it out shortly. So also those with new books here! Great news!

Hank

Maurice Mitchell said...

Congrats on the inspired title Alex! Speaking of inspired taking the MCU to the Civil War is inspired. Maybe Spider-Man will get to play in this film somewhere?

kjmckendry said...

Congrats on book 4! Love the title and synopsis!

Metallica wins this round for me.

T. Powell Coltrin said...

Lots of exciting news, but the best is about your upcoming book. Yay for you.

I think Robert Downing Jr. is super sexy. Just saying.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I am excited about CA3 and will watch some Netflix probably later today.
Congrats on book 4. It sounds exciting and I love dragons even as ships.
Very cool about the inspiring song and I vote for the Metallica version.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

I was very sad when I heard first there won't be Iron Man 4, but now knowing he will appear in CA3, makes me more calm and hopeful. :)

I decided the skip The Colony. It looked bad.

mail4rosey said...

10 Fridays left until Christmas, woot!

I'm voting Thin Lizzy, though the singing in the second was good, I couldn't get past the throwing up gals in the bathroom, lol. Guess I should have listened only to get a more objective voice.

Now I'm going to go look up The Boys are Back in Town, I haven't heard that in forever.

Hurrah for Robert Downey, Jr. w/Cap!!

Birgit said...

Book #4-you should be proud! So many don't even write one (I place my head down...for now). I am looking forward at this next film as my hubby and I love Robert Downey. I see why this piece of music inspired you-it sounds haunting and yet futuristic...when did it come out? Just wondering because it reminds me of other music from the late 70's and early 80's. The voice is great and so clear! Now the BOTB-I choose the first one. The music does need the heaviness of the 2nd. It sounds better as the original. I didn't like the forced vocals in the 2nd. Also, just a side note, if I ever go to a party that turns out to be hellish like the 2nd one, get me to the nearest exit

Leovi said...

really very interesting "The Colony"

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Congratulations on the next book! *throws confetti*

I'm not familiar with the song at all, but I love that it inspired a novel in you!

As for movies, I'm still trying to find the time to see Gone Girl. If I get that one movie in this month, I'll count myself lucky.

Loni Townsend said...

Woohoo! Congrats Alex! I'm so happy for you. :) Four books is an amazing accomplishment. And great song too. :)

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

That's great news, Alex. Congratulations.

David P. King said...

That's an exciting premise. You know I'll buy it.

And if Iron Man comes to Capt 3, you can bet the Civil War story is just around the corner. Sweet! :)

Morgan said...

Oh my gosh!!! This is WONDERFUL news, Alex!!!! Wow, what a feeling. You've got to be SO elated!!!!

And hahahaha… you KNOW mini-Alex ALWAYS makes me laugh!!! Love. Love. Love. I definitely needed that CHRISTMAS reminder, thank you VERY MUCH. ;)

Unknown said...

Alright! Glad to see Dragon is set for liftoff. :) Let me know how I can help getting word out!

I usually side with the classic rock version of a song--almost always. But I have to go with Metallica on this one. Outside of the Dubliners' version (which is the way Whiskey ought to always be heard--preferably in a pub lol), I think the Metallica one is the way to go.

Donna Volkenannt said...

Congratulations. Great title for your next novel. And thanks for the tip about The Colony. I'm adding it to my list of movies to watch.

Fundy Blue said...

Congratulations to all the authors of the books just released. It's especially fun to see Pat Hatt's book featured ~ only because I've been following his blog since I began blogging.

Congrats, Alex! I'm looking forward to reading your new book! I listened to the song that inspired you, and then I had to look into Ayreon, etc. New/awesome music to me, but fascinating storyline, with the queen as Elizabeth I and the dragon as Sir Francis Drake. I'm thinking the emotional tone of the music will match the emotional tone of your story. What fun to see how you make the story your own and run with it!

I liked Tin Lizzy's version of WITJ the best ~ best guitar. The moment I began listening, I thought: This is not the first time I've heard this song, so I checked. Beg to differ, but it is not the "original", but then perhaps you were referring to the heavy metal original, It's a traditional Irish song that may date as far back as the mid-1600s. I heard it first from the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem whose albums I've practically worn out. So I like that version best of all, because I bonded with it almost 50 years ago. I liked Metallica's version too ~ which demos that a great song has staying power!

Happy Wednesday to all you authors. You are an inspiration!

J.L. Campbell said...

Well you see, that's what happens when you start writing. One story usually leads to another. Congrats on the new book.

And yeah! Christmas will soon be here!

Carrie-Anne said...

Congratulations on your fourth book! I love the title.

Unknown said...

yay mini Alex made an appearance! huge congrats to you, your book sounds fantastic!! and yay for Medeia too, already have her book awaiting me on Goodreads!

Arlee Bird said...

Great news on your book!

For what it is Metallica does a fine job with their version, but for me Thin Lizzy far outshines them. Lizzy's version is tastier and I like the guitar work and vocals better.

Lee
Tossing It Out

Robin said...

Congrats on that fourth book. You do realize you are a novelty, right? There are SO MANY PEOPLE who would love to publish one book. You know, write something that they are really proud of and have a publisher (and readers) agree. And then there is you. You didn't want to write/publish a fourth book and here you are. Hahahaha. Just savor it. That is my two cents.

Thin Lizzy for me.

Johanna Garth said...

Congratulations on the upcoming book. And Christmas, already!?! I've been to distracted to think about it.

Jo said...

So glad it's a go and looking forward to reading it, although waiting til April is not good. From your previous books I know this will be a good story.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Elsie, they are dwindling. Still betting on the cake decorator.

Elizabeth, you need to watch it!

Maurice, we'll find out.

Teresa, if you say he is!

George, it was actually decent.

Birgit, the album is over ten years old. And it does have that old style sound to it.

Thanks, David!

Morgan, glad he can make you laugh.

EJ, I like that version best.

Fundy, thanks for listening. I really hope the tone carries over. I listened to that song enough when I was writing the story!

Joy, is that how it happens?

Robin, that almost makes me feel guilty sometimes.

Thanks, guys!

Susan Kane said...

I could not access the two videos but will tell you that the best ones are by The Chieftans, or the The Clancy Brothers. Gotta stay true to my roots.

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

I wrote my fire fight scene in my Vietnam novel while listening to Dire Straits Brothers in Arms. Nice to know we share that about our writing and our music. Hearing Thin Lizzy brought back memories. I was still in high school when a friend from Ireland shared the record. Yes! They were records back then. When Metallic came up with the revised number, I told my then teenage sons that they borrowed the song from another band. No one would believe me. LOL

Unknown said...

I normally perfer the older version but this time I have to go with Metallica.
I love the underworld updates as well. So excited to see where they go with that world and I love the ideal of a tv series. Dragon of the stars sounds right up my alley. I love me some sci-fi. Matt @ JC's Book Haven.

ilima said...

Thanks for the shout-out!

I'm not ready for Christmas yet...yikes!

And your new book sounds amazing. I literally got goosebumps reading about a dragon space ship...so cool! Congrats.

Sarah Ahiers said...

First, your book sounds great!

Second, i'm not sure how i feel about Marvel Studios tackling the Marvel Civil War. It's a big, huge deal in the comics and while the studio has been handling everything very well, it's going to be hard to pull off Civil War, i think

Mel Chesley said...

Woohoo!! Congrats, Alex! Very happy for you. Good luck!

DiscConnected said...

Re: BOTB-it ends up being a tougher choice than I expected (too many decades as a Thin Lizzy fan).

Thin Lizzy gets my vote, but I had not heard the Metallica version in a long time, and it rocks-Thin Lizzy is the first version of the song I ever heard, though, so their version sounds "right," even over some of the more traditional versions I know.

Larry

Laura Clipson said...

I love Underworld, didn't realise they were bringing a new one out.
I vote Metallica :)
Love the synopsis to your book, sounds great!

SC Author said...

Yes congrats on your new book!!!!!!!!!!!

Stephanie Faris said...

Congratulations!!! That's awesome. The best books take a long time to write.

Karen M. Peterson said...

Congratulations on the newest book, Alex! And thanks for the reminder that I really need to get mine done!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Susan, sorry you can't view them.

Joylene, that's funny. And I still have a stack of records. No 8-tracks though!

Thanks, Matt!

Ilima, you're welcome. And wow, really? Goosebumps?

Larry, that's usually what it comes down to - familiarity.

Laura, you rock!

Ava Quinn said...

Yay for Pat Hatt new release!

Metallica is for me!

Super news about the new book, Alex!

M Pax said...

I think I just threw up in my mouth about the Christmas thing...

Congrats on Dragon of the Stars!

Crystal Collier said...

Congrats, Alex! That's amazing awesome. I'm sending cheese your way and wishing you smash-up success with this one.

Wow. Underworld is getting a TV series? I know what I'll be watching.

Huge contrats on everyone's releases! I think I've told everyone that individually on their sites...

Nigel G Mitchell said...

Need to check out The Colony. Congrats on the new book

Mark said...

Your new book sounds rad! Let me know when I can get it, if you need beta readers, or plan a blog tour:)

Liz Blocker said...

YES! I thought we'd have to wait a lot longer for this!!! COngrats, Alex!! I love the synopsis and the inspiration :)

John Holton said...

Battle of the Bands-wise, when I saw the name "Whiskey in the Jar," I wondered if it was the old Irish drinking song. Sure 'n' begorrah, it was...

To be honest, I didn't like either of these versions, but rather than vote for the Dubliners' version, I'll go with the Thin Lizzy version, because I like it better musically.

Andrew Leon said...

Doing Civil War is ambitious but makes sense with what they have going on with SHIELD.
And it's a way to kill off Stark and Rogers since they have both said they're not renewing their contracts when they come back up.
Except this sounds like the kind of thing that may keep Downey in, just not as Iron Man.

Michelle Wallace said...

CONGRATS on the completion and release date of your latest book!
A dragon space story! Wow!
And congrats to all the other authors with new releases!

J E Oneil said...

I wonder if the take on Civil War will be any good. Their movies have been good so far, but I have reservations.

Congrats on the book! That's definitely going to be good, no reservations about that :).

Liesel K. Hill said...

That's cool about Robert Downey Jr. I still haven't seen Winter Soldier yet, though. (Dah!) I'll check out The Colony as well. Looks good. Congrats on your 4th book! I really like the song that inspired it. Totally see how that would get your imagination fired up. Excited to read it! :D

farawayeyes said...

Congrats on that book number 4. now, what's up for 5. Ha, ha, ha!

Glad you're back joining in on BOTB. Make mine Thin Lizzy.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sorry to do that to you, Mary!

Mark, I appreciate that.

Liz, so did I!

Liesel, thanks, and you have to watch that movie!

Faraway, no pressure!

Heather M. Gardner said...

ALEX!!!

I'm so HAPPY for you! Congratulations! It's going to be SO great!

Yes to the Capsicle and the Billionaire Genius Playboy Philanthropist!!!

I will always choose the Metallica version of that song! I love the drums in that one!

Mini-Alex! It's not even Halloween yet!

Heather

Holy Ghost Writer said...

Great movies news and congrats on the book.

Anonymous said...

WOOHOO! Congrats on the book news. =D

Trisha said...

I didn't realise this book wasn't set in the Cassan universe. Very exciting anyway!! Sounds like a great read :) Can't wait to see it released.

Ayreon is amazing!

Erin L. Funk said...

Heck yeah, I'm excited for Captain America 3! I didn't realize till now that Robert Downey Jr. would be in it though. Thanks for the recommend on The Colony. We've been scraping the bottom of the Netflix barrel for some time now and I hadn't heard of it. Congrats on your book announcement! That's great news!

Mason T. Matchak said...

Congratulations on the new book! ^_^ Music is always such a huge inspiration to me, so I can see how a song like that left you with a story idea that wouldn't go away. Hope your readers love it.

As for Civil War on the big screen, I'm a little dubious. That series needs a ton of superheroes to make it work, so unless Marvel starts cranking out movies monthly, I don't know how it'll go. But they haven't made a bad movie yet, I think, so we'll see what happens.

Mason Canyon said...

Alex, congratulations on the new book. Great title and the story wounds intriguing. Wishing you much success.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Heather!!!!
You rock.

Trisha, yes they are! Familiar with Arjen's music?

Erin, it's definitely better than a lot of what NetFlix offers.

Mason, since their track record is perfect, I'm counting on it being good.

Sheena-kay Graham said...

Thin Lizzy is my battle pick. Iron Man in Cap 3 spells good things. Underworld is expanding big time and I can't wait. Mini Alex is ready for Christmas Time. Maybe someone can make him a ninja lady. Congrats Alex! It's Official you rock sir! I mean Ninja. Aden's life is going nuts. Maybe he could take a vacay with Nine in Remake. Oh wait.... Anyway congrats to all featured especially Ilima whose book was released yesterday and I got in the mail this morning. The power of the pre-order.

Mark Means said...

Congrats on the next book!! Just don't write too many so I can catch up, o.k? :)

Looking forward to Downey showing up in the next Cap film, too. Should be a good one!

Leslie S. Rose said...

Hooray for #4. I just want to keep saying the title over and over - it's awesome. Captain America 3 with Tony Stark - I've gone to fangirl heaven.

Stephen T. McCarthy said...

When I was a teenager I absolutely LOVED Thin Lizzy; I owned ALL of their albums and went to see them live in concert at least 3 and possibly 4 times.

But then I grew older and lost interest in that sort of music - gaining a greater appreciation for "real" music such as my parents had been yakking about to me for many years (e.g., Glenn Miller, Cannonball Adderley, Dinah Washington, Count Basie, etc.).

I tried to listen to these 'BOTB' bands. Thin Lizzy first (because at one time they were my #1 all-time favorite band) and then Metallica (when T.L. proved too noisy for my delicate, 55-year old ears).

Metallica was even worse!

But I found some hopeless comfort when I actually played BOTH videos at the same time and let 'Noise Meet Noise' to create a whole new concept in RACKET (that was pretty cool, I gotta admit!)

Therefore, my vote goes to Thinallica.

~ D-FensDogg
'Loyal American Underground'

Helena said...

Congratulations on your new book! How really wonderful for you, and it's yet more proof that you've got a wonderful imagination as a writer.

I'd look forward to anything with Robert Downey Jr. in it, and you must be even more excited about Kate Beckinsale.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

Dragon of the Stars is a wonderful title -- it will really help sell the book, plus the success of your other 3 will propel its sales, too!

UNDERWORLD isn't Underworld without Kate Beckinsale to me.

Yes, I really liked the idea of RDJ joining Capt #3 for the Civil War storyline. That I predicted it in July made me smile. I actually guessed right for once!

Thanks for mentioning me, too! :-)

Empty Nest Insider said...

Congrats on Dragon of the Stars, Alex! Now I know why that song inspired you! It was tough, but my vote goes to Metallica, though I really like Stephen's choice of Thinallica!

Julie

TBM said...

Wooohooo! I love your title and I enjoyed listening to the song. I love music that can speak to you. As for the vote, I have to go with Metallica. How can I vote against them, really?

J.L. Murphey said...

The Colony is my next to watch on Netflix.

WTG! On book 4!

writing and living by Richard P Hughes said...

That's terrific. Congratulations.

Unknown said...

Congrats on the book being ready to go! Looking forward to reading it and the song is beautiful.

Melissa said...

I love the title and the premise.
Congratulations, Alex! :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sheena-kay, Mini-Alex would appreciate that!

Mark, doubt that will happen!

Leslie, thanks! I actually came up with the title myself. (The last two books my publisher named.)

Stephen, now I have to play both at the same time!

Helena, I'm really excited!

Roland, you guessed correctly. And no Kate is the reason the third Underworld is my least favorite.

TBM, you can't!

Dean K Miller said...

Congrats on the finalization of Dragon of the Stars.

The Underworld series was one I enjoyed, even thought I don't do much of that genre.

Jennifer Hawes said...

Congrats on the book!! Great title, btw. Yes, I'm now pretty excited about Captain America 3 with Robert Downey Jr.

Al Penwasser said...

Aryeon Dragon the Sea...I made a connection between it and Aeron Targaryean. Good grief, I've gotten TOO MUCH into Game of Thrones.
Incidentally, I'd be with Captain America on this Civil War thing. The government wanting superheroes to register themselves sounds a little Orwellian to me. Then again, they ARE wearing masks.
I probably nailed the thing, huh?

Leovi said...

I love Metallica!

Yolanda Renée said...

Congratulations on book 4 - how awesome and with a dragon in the plot - best seller for sure!

Wishing you all the best with the blog hop - a great idea!

Stephen T. McCarthy said...

>>... "Stephen, now I have to play both at the same time!"

Ha!-Ha!

ALEX, I think I may have just invented the next big thing in music. Now... how do I go about protecting my concept from those who would steal the idea and (Heaven forbid!) listen to Paul Anka's '(You're) Having My Baby' and Morris Albert's 'Feelings' at the same time? [HA! There's a very special place in hell reserved for those who would sin to THAT degree.]

~ D-FensDogg
'Loyal American Underground'

LD Masterson said...

Great news on the new book and congrats to everyone with new releases.

I'm going with Tin Lizzy's Whiskey. Metallica's version just didn't work for me.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Dean, as long as it has Kate, I'll watch it.

Al, I think you did.

Stephen, a very special place in hell...

Karen Jones Gowen said...

#4 Alex, CONGRATS! I remember you saying back in the early days of your blog you didn't know if you had more than one book in you. Robert Downey, Jr is getting pretty old to be an action hero is all I can say about that.

Hart Johnson said...

Totally surprised myself with liking the Thin Lizzie version better. I love Metallica, but I thought the Thin Lizzy version had a unique quality that made the song stand out where Metallica just sounded like Metallica...

HUGE congrats on your book! It sounds like a good one!

Patricia Stoltey said...

Congratulations, Alex. I'm betting Dragon of the Stars will be another winner!

Laura said...

Alex- that's such fantastic news! Can't wait to read number 4!!! Congratulations,
Laura xxx

Sherry Ellis said...

So excited for your new release! That's awesome! I saw the colony. It wasn't bad. My husband decided to take a chance on it, even though it only had 2 stars.

dolorah said...

I'm looking forward to Cap 3 and really want to see The Colony. I say bah humbug to Christmas, although mini Alex is adorable.

A music day for you Alex, cool. Love the Aeyon song, I can see how it could inspire a novel. I like the idea of a dragon as a space battle ship. Way cool.

The BotB artists are such an excellent match. Love both versions. I think I stick with Metallica this time.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Congrats, Alex!

As long as Chris Evans is in Captain America 3, I'm happy.

Metallica's version is best.

S. L. Hennessy said...

Yay Alex! That's so exciting about the book! I can't wait to read it. And I'm also looking forward to more Underworld and Iron Man.

Donna McDine said...

Woo hoo...congratulations on your spring release! Yikes, Christmas is coming!

Suze said...

Al, I am soo proud of you! I got little tears in my eyes reading your words and listening to the lyrics. I love it. Congratulations on book number four. Well done, captain!

Unknown said...

Congratulations on the upcoming book. It sounds amazing! I can't hardly wait for Captain America. As for Christmas, I think Mini-Alex is better prepared than me.

mooderino said...

Ah. nice to see Kate back (in tight fitting leather outfit, no doubt). And congrats on the new book. Part of a trilogy?

mood

Ray Rousell said...

More Underworld......sounds good!!!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Karen, I remember saying that...

Sherry, it was better than two stars.

Donna, glad you liked Ayreon and you rock for picking Metallica.

Suze, thank you!

Jenn, that's because Mini-Alex doesn't have to buy presents...

Moody, not if I can help it!

Liza said...

Congratulations, Alex. I imagine you have a lot more than four books in you!

msmariah said...

Hi Alex! I hope you're well. I'm sure you will be happy with a new 'Underworld' film. I know you'll be happy to see Kate Beckinsale again. I keep seeing 'The Colony' pop up in my Netflix feed. I'll have to give it a chance.

DMS said...

Love the title of your upcoming book! Awesome!

I do like Metallica, but I am going with Thin Lizzy here. :)
~Jess

Truedessa said...

Wow, big surprise on the new book reveal but, somehow I seemed to have picked up on a vibe. Sounds intriguing. I will be looking forward to reading this adventure for sure.

Hard choice but, I am going with Metallica based on song quality not the video just sayin'

Jeff Beesler said...

Nobody can write just one book. Glad to see you're still pumping out new work, my friend!

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Congrats on the upcoming book!! Sounds awesome, of course. As does another Captain America movie!

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - Dragon of the Stars - and what a clever idea to rearrange the lyrics to give you an idea for the book. That's fantastic - congratulations .. sounds like writing's in the blood now ...

Love mini Alex - all wrapped up ready for Christmas ... cheers Hilary

Jackie said...

Congrats, Alex! The premise sounds awesome. And four books...amazing!
I'm an Iron Man/Robert Downey Jr fan so that's great news about Capt. Am 3.

Cathrina Constantine said...

Congrats on your book, Alex!!! I met a comic book addict yesterday, and he told me all about the upcoming superhero movies...interesting.

Battle of the Bands-I prefer the Thin Lizzy version, I like the guitar solo. Metallica has a wild video.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

MsMariah, I think you'll like it.

Truedessa, it is a rough video.

Jeffrey, I did try though.

Unknown said...

I really like the Underworld series. Looking forward to new installments!

Congrats to Pat, Ilima, and the anthology authors! I like Medeia's cover.

The Dragon! So cool! I hope Aden finds it. Huge congrats to you, Alex! :)

Leovi said...

Gorgeous Mini-Alex Christmas!

Unspoken said...

Alex! How do you do it? These massive posts with so much info? I envy the skill :)! The Colony looks like The Road in a way. I never saw The Road, but loved the book. Would The Colony be worthy of ecocrit analysis? Hmmmm :). In a coffee shop... writing... kinda... Thin Lizzy will have to wait. Congrats on the new baby, l mean book!

Thanks for dropping in!

Chemist Ken said...

Captain America 3? I can't look that far ahead. Right now all I can see is Avengers 2!

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Congratulations on the new book! Dragon of the Stars--I love the title.

Bevimus said...

congratulations on your book, Alex! That is beyond fantastic!

Looking forward to the survive and thrive hop on Monday...

Anonymous said...

Alex, CONGRATS on the news of your latest book! Good title!

Rhonda Albom said...

Sorry I am so late getting here. How exciting and congratulations! The song is new to me, but it all sounds interesting. Can't wait to read it. (And also Twisted Earths). As for the bands, my vote is Thin Lizzie, if I am not too late. I generally like an original best.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Congratulations on the forthcoming book. Sounds like a great story.
Guess it's time to start Christmas shopping. :)

D.G. Hudson said...

Thin Lizzy for my vote. Like the vocalist and the guitar better.

I hate those kinds of parties shown in Metallica. . .you feel terrible the morning after. . .

Mina Burrows said...

Love the song. So very cool, Alex. Congrats!

Mina Burrows said...

Love the song. So very cool, Alex. Congrats!

Shell Flower said...

Congrats on sealing the deal on your next novel. Some very exciting releases, too! It's great to see so much awesome writing getting published. I've seen Colony and found it a bit gory, but it was a cool story/world.

Cindy said...

Congrats on book 4. You seemed to have finished this one fast. I wish I could do that. No doubt, the title will make readers curious.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

She Writes, The Colony is not half as depressing...

Rhonda, thanks, and not too late.

DG, that's why I never went to those parties.

Cindy, It took me months to write it! I started working on the outline almost a year ago.

Thanks, everyone!

G. B. Miller said...

In a weird way, Metallica is by far the best cover of the classic Roger Whittaker song (yes, I am just that old).

Father Nature's Corner

Anonymous said...

Congratulations, Alex! I check out The Colony and The Machine on Netflix this past week and enjoyed them both. Not amazing but intriguing, and well done on an obviously limited budget.

A Beer for the Shower said...

Wow, I'm late to the party! Better late than never, I suppose.

Very awesome news on the next book! That's a fantastic title, and a very cool premise. Will be looking forward to it.

Also, I think Metallica had the slight edge in this one, so they win my vote.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

GB, we won't hold age against you.

Milo, exactly - decent for their budget.

Brandon and Bryan, thanks! And you rock.

Stephen Tremp said...

Love those two versions of Whisky In A Jar. I made reference to the song in my first book Breakthrough.

Loving the Marvel comics turned into movies. I'll check out Roland's link right now.

Carrie Butler said...

Congrats, Alex! I think you were the only one who didn't know a fourth book was coming. We knew it was in there. ;)

Unknown said...

Congrats Alex!!

Mike said...

Thin Lizzy gets my vote, but like both versions

Mike said...

Thin Lizzy gets my vote, but like both versions

Unknown said...

Congrats, Alex!

Toi Thomas said...

I'm so looking forward to you new book. I'm glad to finally know the connection between you book and the song. A dragon ship...how cool is that!

Unknown said...

how cool! congratulations Alex, can't wait to read it !!!