Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Insecure Writer’s Support Group! Plus RiffTrax Live, December Movie Preview, Secret Files of Fairday Morrow, MST3K Movie Trivia Answers, and New Releases

It’s time for another group posting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group! Time to release our fears to the world – or offer encouragement to those who are feeling neurotic. If you’d like to join us, click on the tab above and sign up. We post the first Wednesday of every month. I encourage everyone to visit at least a dozen new blogs and leave a comment. Your words might be the encouragement someone needs.

My awesome co-hosts today are Sandra Hoover, Mark Koopmans, Doreen McGettigan, Megan Morgan, and Melodie Campbell!
 
First, I have to announce - CassaStar on sale! The first book in my Cassa Amazon best-selling trilogy is only .99 this week at Amazon. If you can help spread the word, that would be awesome.
Tweet:
Amazon Best-Seller CassaStar by Alex J. Cavanaugh on sale for .99 cents http://www.amazon.com/CassaStar-Alex-J-Cavanaugh-ebook/dp/B0045Y261I/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= #99cents #scifi

I’ve been tossing around my next story idea. I’d like to take on a couple more short stories, starting with one set in either universe I’ve created. I could continue with stories about the Dragon or follow one of the many secondary characters in the Cassa universe. (Any requests?)

After that, I just might try a little fantasy…

Be sure to visit other IWSG members and be watching January 6 when we announce the winners of the IWSG Anthology Contest!

The Wizard of Oz: Book vs. Movie

Hello all! We’re the DMS¬ Fairday Morrow, Lizzy Mackerville, and Marcus “aka Brocket the Rocket” from the new middle grade book THE SECRET FILES OF FAIRDAY MORROW, and we’re here to talk about The Wizard of Oz, the movie vs. the book. There are a lot of differences between them. The slippers are the most obvious. Everyone thinks of them as ruby slippers, because that’s how they’re portrayed in the movie, but in the book, they’re silver. Isn’t that crazy! All this time you thought of them as red. ;)
FAIRDAY: I have my grandma’s copy of The Wizard of Oz, which is very special to me. I remember her reading me the story when I was little, and how she did the characters voices perfectly. I will always cherish the book, BUT I also really like the movie. I mean, it’s just so fun! Plus, my little sister, Margo, belts out the lyrics to the movie soundtrack when it’s playing in the Morrow family cruiser.
LIZZY: I like the movie more than the book. The power of the ruby slippers being divided between each shoe in the book was cool, but I loved the Emerald City in the movie. I thought that part was awesome when they first walk in and the horses change colors and everything is sparkly green.

MARCUS: I haven’t read the book, so I can only talk about the movie, and it’s the best! The flying monkeys are AWESOME, and so is the part when Dorothy throws the water on the wicked witch and she melts. You have to wonder what the witch was made of to fall to pieces just by getting wet.

DMS top 10 favorite things about The Wizard of Oz/ the movie
1. Ruby Slippers
2. Flying Monkeys
3. Awesome music
4. Munchkin Land
5. Toto
6. Flying over a rainbow in general
7. Hot air balloons and wizards
8. The Emerald City
9. The wicked witch¬ needs a shout out.
10.Traveling in a bubble like Glinda.

- Jessica Haight and Stephanie Robinson

Find The Secret Files of Fairday Morrow at Penguin Random House
Find Jessica and Stephanie: website, blog, and on Twitter - @DMSfiles and @mrsrobinson229


Ninja News

Don’t forget RiffTrax Live is December 3 with an encore on December 15!
Santa and The Ice Cream Bunny is one of the most bizarre and popular RiffTrax titles of all time and a cheesy holiday classic. This rare version of the film includes a never before seen Jack and the Beanstalk story as told by Santa for an as yet unknown reason. Join Mike, Kevin, and Bill as they present it live on the big screen for the very first time!

New Releases:

Lovelorn Spirits by Christine Rains
Find it on Ellora’s Cave, Amazon, and Goodreads

She also has a short story in the just released 9 Tales Told in the Dark. #7


The Reader, Rifters Book 3 by M. Pax
With the rift closed for the season and no more monsters to fight, Daelin Long gets bored as librarian in the podunk town of Settler, Oregon.
Find it on Amazon, iBook, Barnes and Noble, and more!


Guardians of Telesma by River Fairchild
Find it on Amazon


Aced (Blocked #2) by Jennifer Lane
Find it on Amazon


A Clueless Woman by T.B. Markinson 
Find it on Amazon US, Amazon UK, Amazon CA, Amazon AU, and Goodreads


The Water Holds No Scars: Fly Fishing Stories of Rivers & Rejuvenation
Edited by Dean K. Miller
Find it at Tulip Tree Publishing

Beverly Stowe McClure’s story, A Tiger-Sized Heart, will appear in an upcoming anthology.
Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Very Good, Very Bad Cat will be published February 9, 2016.





Movie Trivia Answers

All have been riffed by MST3K:
1 – 1975, eight legged creatures, Alan Hale Jr. in the cast – The Giant Spider Invasion
2 – 1955, sequel to fish man hit, Clint Eastwood’s first role – Revenge of the Creature
3 – 1959, starring James Best of Dukes of Hazzard fame, featuring giant rodents that were actually just dogs with carpets draped over their backs – The Killer Shrews
4 – 1957, directed by Bert I. Gordon, and featuring a really big bald guy – The Amazing Colossal Man
5 – 1965, first in a series of many, this Japanese monster gave Godzilla a run for his money - Gamera
6 – 1957, another Bert I. Gordon classic, starred Peter Graves, featured really large insects – The Beginning of the End

December Movie Preview

Here are the upcoming theatrical releases for December! As always, descriptions courtesy of the IMDB. Snarky comments by me.

11 -

The Big Short
Four outsiders in the world of high-finance who predicted the credit and housing bubble collapse of the mid-2000s decide to take on the big banks for their lack of foresight and greed.
Director: Adam McKay
Stars: Brad Pitt, Christian Bale, Finn Wittrock, Karen Gillan
If you’re not already disgusted by our lending institutions, then just watch this film.

In the Heart of the Sea
Based on the 1820 event, a whaling ship is preyed upon by a sperm whale, stranding its crew at sea for 90 days, thousands of miles from home.
Director: Ron Howard
Stars: Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson, Ben Whishaw
Man versus Dick – the Real Story.




18 –

Star Wars: The Force Awakens
A continuation of the saga created by George Lucas and set thirty years after Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983).
Director: J.J. Abrams
Stars: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver
Wait, there’s a new Star Wars film? Why haven’t I seen any advertising for it?




25 –

The Revenant
In the 1820s, a frontiersman, Hugh Glass, sets out on a path of vengeance against those who left him for dead after a bear mauling.
Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu
Stars: Tom Hardy, Leonardo DiCaprio, Domhnall Gleeson, Will Poulter
The director of Birdman is at it again to bring you a fascinating yet most likely bizarre film spectacle.

The Hateful Eight
In post-Civil War Wyoming, bounty hunters try to find shelter during a blizzard but get involved in a plot of betrayal and deception. Will they survive?
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Stars: Channing Tatum, Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason Leigh
Tarantino on Christmas Day! Give the gift of gallons of bloodshed.

Concussion
In Pittsburgh, accomplished pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu uncovers the truth about brain damage in football players who suffer repeated concussions in the course of normal play.
Director: Peter Landesman
Stars: Will Smith, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Alec Baldwin, Stephen Moyer
I bumped my head on a cabinet and I honestly can’t remember what this movie’s about…


Whoa! So, what should I write next? Grateful for any help I can get promoting CassaStar’s sale. Which do you prefer - Wizard of Oz book or movie? Seeing RiffTrax: Live? Picking up some awesome new books? How’d you do on the trivia? And what movies perk your interest this month?

185 comments:

Angela Brown said...

Am I actually the first to comment? What??/

Angela Brown said...

Sorry, got a little excited. I've not been the first commenter before so it was a bit of a rush.

I think the advertising for Star Wars is in retail. There's Star Wars everything everywhere, but more of it times 10 lol!

There have been a few movies to leave me utterly disgusted after watching them. I will probably have to watch the financial film with my mouth duct taped lol! Oh the comments I'd make.

As for what you should write next, I know space/sci-fi is your thing, but I imagine you could pebble together a nice inspirational story.

L.G. Keltner said...

Good luck with the short stories! I have every confidence you'll come up with something good. Fantasy could definitely be a fun genre to tackle.

I'll definitely help you promote the sale! Good luck!

Denise Covey said...

I can see people reading your short stories on their iPhones, iPads etc as they commute. Amazing number of books being released! :-)

Annalisa Crawford said...

That's an awesome selection of new book releases this month. Congrats to all the authors.

We're counting down to Star Wars in our house, and are planning to view the machete order the week before. I shall be completely unavailable on the 13th and 19th of December :-)

I think it's brilliant you are still writing. You had me worried for a while there!

Elephant's Child said...

Lots and lots and lots of new releases. Congratulations and thank you to all.

Murees Dupè said...

Lots of new books and movies. Definitely go with a story you feel passionate about. Or the character you've been wanting to write about, but aren't sure of. I will definitely help spread the word about CassaStar. Now worries.

Thank you so much for all the hard work you and the IWSG team has done this year. It is much appreciated.

Nicola said...

I can't believe it's the last IWSP post for 2015! Wow, that has certainly gone at a Star Wars pace :) I went to the cinema for the first time in ages, last night to see Mockingjay II. The books are much better but at least there was a happy ending (I'm a sucker for happy endings). Have a great week!!

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - glad you'll still be writing ... and I suspect your choices will be 50 percent. Lots of interesting books by bloggers we know - and that's good .. then the Star Wars - they're even doing a late night show on the ?17th is it - shows you I'm not going! Can't get enthused! The books look interesting though .. cheers Hilary

mail4rosey said...

I sent out the Tweet. :) The only movie I heard of in the list you posted is Star Wars. Crazy, right? I need to get w/the times. :) I do know the actors in them though. ;)

kaykuala said...

A fine array of the new book releases. Most inspiring. Among the films, Big Shot should most interesting as we went through the sub-prime woes not so long ago. Star Wars is already playing in the neighborhood, the grandees have gone to see. Gramps should go perhaps later.

Hank

Shah Wharton said...

All but the last movie preview are getting me excited.
Congrats to all the new releases!!!
I've shared your book slae on my blog post today and Tweeted it too. :)
Can you believe it's December already?

Shah, X

shahwharton.com

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Another informative post, Alex. Spreading the word all over town about the sale. I think you need a doll to market with the books. Or maybe a cast of characters like StarWar does. Maybe something simpler to start with. T-shirts. Whatever it is or isn't, best to you for all you do.

Lan said...

Starting new stories is always exciting! Good luck with the sale. I am so excited about the Star Wars movie!

Natalie Aguirre said...

Awesome you might try a fantasy. Congrats to Jess on her book release.

Samantha Bryant said...

Sounds like you're having a great month. Best of luck with your sale. And it's always fun to write short stories in your universe. All the stuff going on off to the side of your main plot gets out there :)

TBM said...

Wow! Should I admit I haven't or seen The Wizard of Oz. Probably not, but too late. This means I can't take sides in the debate.

Congrats to all the authors with new releases.

And thanks, Alex, for promoting A Clueless Woman. Much appreciated!

Michael Abayomi said...

I can't believe Star Wars is only two weeks away now! Where did the past two or so years of anticipation go? I'm also looking forward to The Hateful Eight, The Revenant, and David O. Russell's latest, Joy, the three of which would be duking it out on Christmas Day.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Glad to hear you have new writing projects in mind! We were supposed to see The Force Awakens Thursday evening but had to change our plans. Luckily, I was still able to find tickets for Friday evening.

Jennifer Hawes said...

You should definitely try writing fantasy!! I never thought I'd write in this genre, but I'm hooked. Although, I switched back to contemporary mysteries for the time being. (still debating whether or not to add some fantasy to it) The Secret Files book sounds fascinating:)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Angela, you're first! And an inspirational fantasy maybe..?

LG, thanks!

Annalisa, I keep trying to quit...

Big thanks, Murees!

Hilary, I'm not going either.

Rosey, thanks!

Thank you, Shah! And no, I can't.

Joylene, we dudes call them action figures.

TB, you're welcome.

Michael, there are so many coming out Christmas Day...

Unknown said...

Your inputs on the movies always crack me up, Alex! And for the Wizard of Oz movie vs. book, I'm going with book. I actually own it and the illustrations are amazing--hand painted after the printing. They just don't make books like that anymore.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Good luck with the sale, Alex!

I'm up for The Revenant, but I'm so behind in my movie watching who knows when I'll actually see it?!

Pat Hatt said...

Maybe write all three at your sea, 2 short stories and a new one. Yeah, that star wars just came out of nowhere, no advertising at all lol

David Powers King said...

The end of the year is going out with a bang in the movies, isn't it? And I'm super excited about new MST3K episodes. Congrats to the authors of Fairday Morrow! Looks like a good one. :)

Julie Flanders said...

So many great new releases - congrats to all the authors! I know whatever you come up with for your stories will be great, Alex. Hope the sale is a big hit.

Nick Wilford said...

Good luck with your upcoming shorts. Some fantasy would be cool too; I think there's a lot of crossover between fantasy and SF. Unfortunately I hadn't even heard of any of the trivia films!

Love The Wizard of Oz. According to my mum, it was the video that I watched most repeatedly as a child. I think my favourite character is the lion, because I was shy and timid too.

Diane Burton said...

Have fun with the short stories. I'm looking forward to the new Star Wars movies. I just hope it's as good as the hype.

Shady Del Knight said...

Hi, Alex!

Mrs. Shady and I are fond of period films and would likely enjoy In the Heart of the Sea, The Revenant and The Hateful Eight, all set in the 19th century. It's quite a coincidence that two upcoming releases are set in the 1820s and employ the theme "when nature attacks." It is also coincidental that Ron Howard will appear in my next post on Friday. I hope you will check it out. I enjoy Quentin Tarantino's directing style and the cast of The Hateful Eight has some heavyweights.

Dean K Miller said...

Hey Alex...thanks for the shout out for "The Water Holds No Scars . . ." Completely excited and nervous about launching this new book. have the first Cassa book and tweeted already. Saw the Riff Trax trailer in the theater last week!

Tonja Drecker said...

I preferred the Oz movie. I picked up the book a couple of years ago and just thought 'Wow. This would never get published in today's world.' Some of my family is super excited about the StarWars release. I'll admit, I'm hesitant after the last three. You have new book ideas??? Awesome!

Tess Julia said...

Ok, I've GOT to see that movie about the mortgage crisis. That whole thing was such a mess.
I'll definitely tweet your book promotion- I loved your book!

Heather M. Gardner said...

I would love to see the Dragon go on more missions and discover new things!

Hi Alex!

Happy IWSG day! Last one of the year!

My husband and I can't believe how much Star Wars advertising and merchandise there is this time around. It's almost annoying. :)

Did you see the trailer for Civil War? Looks pretty awesome. I love it when the good guys get mad. :)

Have a great day!
Heather

Liza said...

Another IWSG year past. How could that be. I'm sure whatever you decide to pursue, you will be a success at it.

Christine Rains said...

Good luck with the stories, Alex. I'd love to see some fantasy from you. Congratulations to Jessica and Stephanie! And thank you, Alex, for the shout-out. I have Mary's and River's new books. I had no idea there was a Tarantino film coming out on Christmas day. The only one I'm likely to see this month is The Good Dinosaur. :)

J.Q. Rose said...

Kudos to all the authors with new book releases and writings. So glad to hear you are going to keep writing, Alex. Write what you love is my motto. Haven't read the W of Oz book, but are they comparing the Judy Garland movie to it? Has there been a contemporary re-make of it by now? I'd think so. Thursday night on NBC 8 pm EST, the Wiz will be presented live...Broadway musical version of Oz. Happy holidays!

Jennifer Lane said...

Looks like your sale is going well! Thank you for sharing my new release. :-)

Jen said...

Congrats to all the new books out this month!!! I grew up watching The Wizard of Oz and I do enjoy the movie. LOVE the Wicked Witch. I tried reading the books and made it through the first three of the series. Oh man...were they ever written in a different time. They are so very, well, let's just say the characters are dumbed down versions of stereotypes. I can't believe I made it through three! I should have stopped with the first one. This would be one of about three times I'd ever, ever say the movie was better than the book!

Wait. A Star Wars movie? Where have I been?!? :P

Happy IWSG day!
Jen

Cathrina Constantine said...

Thanks for leaving me with a chuckle about the movie Concussion!!!!!

I think you'd write an Awesome Fantasy novel!!!!

Sarah Ahiers said...

I'm super excited about all these movies except The Big Short, which I haven't even heard of. But definitely hitting In the Heart of the Sea in theaters (and obviously I already have my star wars tix)

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Action figures (hahaha) -- right!

Cherie Colyer said...

It's always fun to be back with familiar characters or in a familiar universe. You can't go wrong with either of those.

I haven't read the Wizard of Oz, but I always enjoy the movie. I'm now curious about the slippers in the book. The power was divided between the shoes? That's cool!

Congrats to everyone with new books out!

L. Diane Wolfe said...

You should keep writing those short stories.

I've never read any of the Oz books. I've heard they were a bit odd.

randi lee said...

I like the books over the movies, to be honest. I'll gladly plug you sale!!!

Chemist Ken said...

It's been a long time since I read the book, but I recall there were a lot more things happening in the book. Lots of stuff that was left out of the movie. Then again, the semi-scary atmosphere of the movie was better than the book.

Shell Flower said...

That's a cute character sketch about the Wizard of Oz. Really shows their personalities. I'd love to see you write some fantasy, Alex. Maybe a crossover where one of the Cassa planets is the setting for a fantasy world? Just a thought.

Pat Garcia said...

Hi,
I would prefer reading The Wizard of Oz book first. For me, a book is always more interesting than the movie.
Shalom,
Patricia

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Melanie, I am here to amuse!

Pat, no pressure!

Nick, there are similarities.

Shady, Ron Howard? Awesome!

Dean, you're welcome.

Tess, thanks!

Heather, I saw it. And the merchandising is just insane this time.

Christine, you're welcome.

JQ, there have been other movies but not a remake.

Jennifer, you're welcome.

Jen, I've never read any of the books.

Randi lee, thanks!

Crystal Collier said...

Yay for the book sale! I totally fell off the spectrum on book sales this month. That happens when you're in charge of three, not one but THREE Christmas programs. Eeee.... Here's to burning through the holiday season!

Sandra Cox said...

Okay, picked up my copy of Cassa and shot off a twitter.

Many congrats to the Fairday ladies:) Wishing you much deserved success.

A. B. Keuser said...

Yay! Short stories are awesome. I'm feeling the onset of my December slump, but hoping to push through. Hopefully December doesn't get you down like it does me!

Tamara Narayan said...

I'm going to get my copy of Cassa after this comment. I also went wild on Cyber Monday and snatched up 4 Kindle books. Squee!

Wizard of Oz the movie is clear in my mind. (The tornado would definitely be in my top ten moments--plus the moment they switch from black and white to color afterwards). I read the book as a child, and can't remember much, sadly.

Movies: I've seen preview for The Big Short and The Revenant. Both look excellent. I must see Concussion because my husband has been doing research on concussions for a couple of years now. He's a mathematician, and we talk about this all the time at dinner.

Charles Gramlich said...

almost always, I like books better than movies. This one is an exception. I don't think Baum was a very good writer. The movie captured the best parts of the book and the actors brought it to life in a way Baum could not.

Sheena-kay Graham said...

That Fairday book cover looks amazing. Congrats ladies and the OZ movie rocks. Write what your heart desires Alex, I am sure I'll enjoy whatever you decide. Shout out to you and Mini Alex. On the movie front I have seen Hotel Translyvania 2, Peanuts and Mockingjay 2 since I got out of my money purgatory in October. I had to cut movie going from July through September while tightening my belt and it was excruciating. I missed Ant-man, Minions and a number of other cool movies. Plus I like supporting movies and the local cinemas when I can. Movies can't be made if no one boys a ticket (or DVD, digital download....). Oh yes I plan to see the real life Dick story. Lol. Also The Good Dinosaur, new Star Wars movie and etc. Thanks for reminding me of The Hateful Eight. That one I actually forgot. Awkward.

Sherry Ellis said...

I tweeted for you. Hope you sell even more copies! Looking forward to finding out who the winners of the anthology contest are. Even if I don't win, I sure had fun writing something that was a little outside my normal genre. Nice to see Jess and Stephanie's book here. Cute interview!

Kristin Smith said...

So great that you have so many new story ideas floating around—you need to pass some of that inspiration off to me! :)

I know my husband is excited for the new Star Wars movie, but I didn't even know there WAS a new one until a couple weeks ago. Has there really not been that much advertising? Or do I just live in a bubble? (The latter of which is probably true!) :)

Tyrean Martinson said...

I tweeted for CassaSTar!
And . . . I think you should write whatever is calling you the most. :)

Wizard of Oz - book.

And, I have tickets for Star Wars (not opening day, but still planned), and I want to see In the Heart of the Sea - the book was haunting.

Nicki Elson said...

Oooh, the seedlings of new story ideas. Have fun nurturing one to life!

Hooray for all the authors and their just-released books. So much talent here.

I'm getting nervous for the new Star Wars movie - hoping I'm not overly Star Warred before it even hits the screens with all of this freaking merchandise EVERYWHERE. Sheesh.

EEGiorgi said...

Alex, I started a book digest on my blog where I post books that are free or on promotion, I'll add CassaStar to the post I've scheduled for tomorrow.

Philip Verghese 'Ariel' said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
The Angry Lurker said...

What can we say....Star Wars but I'm looking forward to "Hateful Eight".

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

They did a phenomenal job on the Wizard movie. There's nothing like it. I met Ray Bolger (Scarecrow) in real life. He was a wonderful, warm-loving man. This is to say the movie is my preference.

Have a good week, Alex.
Whatever you write, we'll be reading.

DMS said...

Hi Alex! Awesome post. Thank you for having the DMS on to chat about the Wizard of Oz, book and movie. They had a blast. Excellent to hear about CassaStar. Lots of great stuff on your blog, as always. :)

Angela Wooldridge said...

Have tweeted for you, best of luck with the sale. I'm on the fence re the new Star Wars movie - I just don't want to be disappointed :(

Debra Renée Byrd said...

I absolutely love the movie. I also love Return to Oz. I tried to read the books, and...yeah, I love the movie. lol

Unknown said...

You are such a productive dynamo of an author/person in general. You inspire me!

Tui Snider said...

Congrats on all the releases! Do you ever sleep? ;p I love the Mystery Science guys, but haven't seen RiffTrax: Live, yet. I did see a trailer for the Santa and the Ice Cream Bunny - wow! It looks horrendously...good!

Roland D. Yeomans said...

I have enjoyed writing my novels in a linked universe. I think you would like doing stories of your secondary characters. Go for it. And you know me and fantasy :-)

Star Wars will dominate December's box office I know.

Have a great Holiday Season Roland

Arlee Bird said...

I never read any of the Oz books, but have seen the 1939 film I don't know how many times. I don't think any remake could top that version of the film.

I've tweeted your Cassastar tweet and my tweet has been getting retweets! You must be getting a lot of promo from everyone doing this.

Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out

Unknown said...

I haven't seen the Wizard of Oz in so long. I'm not surprised there are quite a few differences between the movie and book. I can't wait to see the new Star Wars movie, though I hope my expectations aren't too high. It's a movie I'll actually have to see in the theater (I can't even remember the last movie I've seen in a theater besides kids movies). Hope you had a great Thanksgiving weekend!

Stephen Tremp said...

I'm really looking forward to The Big Short, The Revenant and The Hateful Eight. Off to do the Tweet now.

Anonymous said...

Just downloaded CassaStar. I'm looking forward to reading it! I've never read the book version of the Wizard of Oz. Now I really want to. Congrats to all the new releases! Can't wait for Star Wars. Fantasy is a fun genre to write in. You should write whatever floats your boat. Happy IWSG Day!

DMS said...

TBM- Amazing that you have never seen the movie The Wizard of Oz!

Jennifer Hawes- Thanks! So glad our book sounds interesting to you. :)

Melanie Schulz- Your copy of The Wizard of Oz sounds fabulous! I love that it has beautiful illustrations. :)

Natalie- Thanks so much! :)

David P. King- Thanks for your good wishes on our book! :)

Nick Wilford- We watched The Wizard of Oz all the time when we were kids too. The Lion is great! :)

T. Drecker- We have read the book too, but prefer the movie. Interesting to look at all their differences. :)

Christine Rains- Thanks so much! :)

J.Q. Rose- We are comparing the Judy Garland Wizard of Oz. Great question about if they have made a new one. We love that The Wiz will be on Thursday. Thanks for mentioning that! :)

Jen Chandler- Good for you for getting through 3 of the books! The set is definitely different than what we were expecting when we started them. Love the characters and colors in the movie. :)

Cherie Colyer- The shoes are probably one of the most interesting differences in the book and movie. Of course, there are other differences as well, like a magic cap, and a glass world. :)

L. Diane Wolfe- The books are different than the books, although they do have things in common. Fun to compare the two! :)

Randi Lee- That is great! Always fun to hear different opinions. :)

Chemist Ken- The movie definitely took out a lot of aspects of the books, but included some key points. It is fun to notice all the ways they are similar and different. :)

Shell Flower- Glad you enjoyed the character sketches! :)

Pat Garcia- We almost always like the book better than the movie too. :)

Karen Walker- We love the songs too and find ourselves humming some of them on a regular basis. Plus, the ruby slippers are just beautiful. :)

Sandra Cox- Thanks for the good wishes! :)

Tamara Narayan- You picked awesome moments to include! Color to black and white and the tornado- fabulous! :)

Charles Gramlich- Thanks for sharing. We almost always like the books better than the movies too. :)

Sheena-kay Graham- So glad you love the cover of our book! We totally agree with you about the movie. :)

Sherry- Glad to see you here too! Thanks for hosting us and for commenting. :)

Tyrean Martinson- Thanks for joining in the debate! :)

Rawknrobyn- The movie is amazing. How cool that you met the actor who played The Scarecrow! :)

Deborah Hawkins- We haven't seen Return to Oz- but now we must check it out. Thanks for sharing. :)

We loved reading all the comments, good wishes, and points about the book and movie. Thanks for sharing everyone!
~Jess and Stephanie

ELAdams said...

Best of luck with the sale! I'm excited to see the new Star Wars movie.

Leovi said...

Excellent! Congratulations on the seller! I think it would be a good idea to continue with stories about the Dragon!

Stephanie Faris said...

Congrats to Steph and Jess...and I say do all of the book ideas you mentioned. Fantasy sounds great, as do short stories. I was looking over all those new releases and wondering if any of us ever stop to appreciate how accomplished this group is? We may be insecure, but we're awesome!

Mary Aalgaard said...

In the Heart of the Sea promises to be good, considering the director and cast. I'd go to that one. We're all excited about the next Star Wars, well, the boys are anyway. I think Lucas has enough money. Write what your heart is telling you to write. Branching out into new territory is always exciting!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Shell, that is a thought.

Crystal, that's a lot.

Sandra, you rock!

Tamara, thanks!

Sheena-kay, now you can catch up on your movies!

Thanks, Sherry, and glad you submitted a story.

Kristin... bubble.

Thanks, Tyrean!

EE, I appreciate that!

Fran, Tarantino rocks.

Robyn, that's really cool.

Jess, you're welcome.

Angela, thanks.

Megan, appreciate that.

Tui, yes! And I do like my sleep.

Lee, thanks - and that's cool!

Lori, you rock!

Stephanie, well said!

Brandon Ax said...

That is cool you are branching out in your writing. I want to do some SciFi myself.

This Star Wars will be the first one my son and I will get to see together in theaters so that is pretty cool.

Juneta key said...

First congratulations to all the new release authors. I grabbed my copy of CassaStar and sent out a tweet. Can't wait for the new Star Wars I received opening day tickets for my birthday, so my seat is set and I can add another set of opening day tickets to my collection of them.

Juneta @ Writer's Gambit

Mark Koopmans said...

Tweeted!

Write what you love - you're great at it :)

Cool, there's a new Star Wars movie... must check it out :)

I'm looking forward to hearing about the winners of the anthology contest:)

Happy IWSG Wednesday, Alex... I know it's your quiet day of the month:)

Cherie Reich said...

I'm excited about the idea of you trying some fantasy. And I'm really glad I wasn't drinking anything when I read your comment about In the Heart of the Sea.

Congrats to Jessica and Stephanie! I still haven't read the book The Wizard of Oz. I have to admit I like Wicked more than The Wizard of Oz.

Congrats to all the authors on their new releases!

Joanne said...

I bet 2016 kicks off a writing spree for you - short or long, you'll have fun exploring new worlds. I love the Wizard of Oz - just the whole movie, but the Flying Monkeys scared me to death as a kid. And Margaret Hamilton was perfect as Miss Gulch and the witch. The cover of Aced caught my eye - that was a treat! Loved your snarky comments on the movie blips. Star Wars....?? What? Are you sure it's not Star Trek? (sacrilege, I know - that's how I mess with my guys at work). I trust you enjoyed your Thanksgiving time off. Now onward thru December - have a good one

Robin said...

I don't know if you noticed I don't have anything for IWSG this month. It's not because I've conquered my insecurity, but because I've spent the better part of the last week in bed with a migraine. However, I did want to try and visit a few blogs today before heading back to bed. I will be back in January, God willing, for the IWSG.

nashvillecats2 said...

Hope Cassa star does well, will certainy spread the word.
Again amny awesome books on release, Good luck to their authors.
Yvonne.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

My copy of The Secret Files of Fairday Morrow is in the mail. Looking forward to reading it. All the other books sound interesting too.
Thanks, Alex, for posting about the Chicken Soup Anthology. Tiger is really excited about being in a book.
I think you should write whatever your heart tells you to do at this moment in time. Then you can do the other.
Have a happy December.

Sher A. Hart said...

Angela Brown's comment made me laugh...I would have been excited too.

I tried to tweet and it wouldn't paste, so I retweeted one with a picture.

Fairday Morrow has a fun blog with puzzles and clues every week.

Like you, I missed the publicity on Star Wars...not!

Inspirational Fantasy sounds good. More like great!

BTW, I am still debating IWSG but at least I made it to 6 blogs to comment so I don't feel quite as guilty.

Andrew Leon said...

I prefer the book.

And, if you want to write something supernatural, send me an email. I could use a short story. :P

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Brandon, a memorable moment!

Juneta, thanks!

Mark, yeah, it's like crickets around here...

Cherie, that made me laugh!

Joanne, I bet that does mess with them.

Robin, no worries! Get some rest.

Beverly, you're welcome.

Thanks, Sher! Sorry you had issues.

Andrew, not sure I could do paranormal...

Chrys Fey said...

Yay for your sale! I know it's going to produce awesome results for you. I do think remember if I got CassaStar are or not so I'm going to check and take advantage of this deal. ;)

I've never read the book for The Wizard of Oz but I have always wanted to. The movie is one of my all-time favorites.

Loni Townsend said...

I hope your sale goes well! And when it comes to your next short, I do like a good fantasy. :D

Liz A. said...

I've never read The Wizard of Oz nor seen the movie. I do know that the slippers are ruby in the movie because it was made in color when not all movies were. Silver slippers wouldn't have looked as good.

I'll tweet that now...

stephen Hayes said...

In the Heart of the Sea sounds like a compelling movie. I know it's Moby Dick but it looks just different enough to be interesting.

J E Oneil said...

Good luck with your writing. I've never really had a good knack for short stories. I'm always impressed with people who can do both short and long. And I totally haven't seen any of the movies from the trivia. I don't think I've even heard of most of them. I guess I'm not up on old movies.

Gwen Gardner said...

I really hate to admit this, but...I'm not a Star Wars fan. I saw the original movie at the theater when I was young, but only because my boyfriend was a huge fan. Who knows, though, if I decide to give it another try, everything will be brand new to me!

Thanks for all the news, Alex!

Congratulations to everyone with new releases.

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

I sent out a tweet about your sale. Good luck!

M Pax said...

I shall find you on the Twitter and promote you there. :) Write what calls to you. For shorts, I actually love writing something completely different. But that's me. You have to go with what excites you.

Thanks for posting about The Reader. It shares a book birthday with a lot of great books and authors.

dolorah said...

Now I feel silly for not having read The Wizard of Oz book. I know it is different than the movie, but the movie is so intriguing. Flying Monkeys especially.

And yes, Tarentino for Christmas, lol. I'm trying to find a time to see Krampus with my daughter.

shelly said...

Hi, Alex! Do I get a special prize? I your 100th commentor today.

Love the movie Wizard of Oz. It's one of my favorites.

Jo said...

I guess I am 101 in comments. Busy day. I will be interested to see the Star Wars movie with all these elderly actors in it. I think they are crazy. Will the Wookie have grey hair now?

One or two of the other movies sound good.

How about a story about the Kargrandes themselves?

I have just recommended a fairly new author, Michael J. Foy, to ISWG so if you see him Alex, please make him welcome.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Ooo! I'd love to see what you'd do with a fantasy story!!

Yolanda Renée said...

You'll write the story that appeals to you! Good luck.

I just picked up TB's book, love her writing! Thanks for posting it!

I don't care for the wizard. Seeing it once was enough, I think it has a lot to do with flying monkeys! LOL

Elizabeth said...

I will watch the new Star Wars, but probably not opening weekend. I can't even imagine how many people will be there with all the hype I've seen!

I still need to finish reading your books, and I would be happy to have more to read when I'm through. I think you would do well with a fantasy :)

Erika Beebe said...

I always like writing out my story possibilities and begin with the one I am most passionate about in the moment. Maybe the press of the holidays will stir something emotional and give you a character you absolutely have to take on. Dragons are always fun. I love magical possibility.
So many awesome movies are about to hit the screen! I am not sure how I will ever pick which one to see first.
The wizard of Oz...a difficult comparison since I saw the movie at such s young age and wasn't aware of the book at the time. I am not sure if I can read the book now with the image of the movie burned in my thoughts. I usually like to read the book first. Happy holidays! Erika

Cathy Keaton said...

Star Wars, nothing but Star Wars.... Nothing but Star Wars, duhn, duhn duhnn.....

I have faith in J.J. Abrams ability to get this right. He's a fan, after all, unlike George Lucas.

Helena said...

Alex - I'd love to see a background story on your CassaStar storyline about the psychic connection between the pilots and navigators. How did that develop in their society and military? Did this race evolve with the ability or is it a mutation that appeared sometime in their history?

Then again, whatever you choose to write will no doubt be very good indeed.

Anonymous said...

Hmm, story ideas. I'm not sure. I'd say take a nice, long, hot shower. The muse is fond of striking there. Just make sure you have some aqua notes handy. ;)

J.L. Campbell said...

If you want to try a little something else, by all means explore in a different direction. Have fun whatever you do!

Anonymous said...

I love the Wizard of Oz.

You'd do great in fantasy.

Donna McDine said...

Wow! I never knew the slippers in the Wizard of Oz book were silver! Learn a new thing every day! My daughter had to stop playing basketball because of concussions. Very scary!

River Fairchild said...

Thank you so much for mentioning Guardians of Telesma! I'm honored to be in such great company with the other releases.
Star Wars! Finally! I hope we've seen the last of Jar Jar...

Adrienne Reiter said...

Hi Alex!

I can't believe it's the last post of the year already. Congrats to all the new releases!

Cheers!

Adrienne

kimlajevardi.com said...

I hope the sale is super successful. Good luck in planning your new projects. :)

T. Powell Coltrin said...

I cannot wait for the Star Wars movie. I'm dying here. I also want to see the other movies. Now to writing. I think you should write a fantasy thriller. Love thrillers. One where we think we know the main character, but then start doubting, just to find out we were wrong all along. Got that? :)

Birgit said...

My computer is acting up again(big sigh). I think you will do well with your short stories whichever way you go. Trust in your instincts and it will guide you. I believe i did pretty good in the trivia and I actually own Attack of the Killer Shrews:) Of course I will see the Stars Wars film and hope they are better than the other 3 that came out (jar, jar, q-tip and Queen Armadillo-my words for them). I like Tarantino so that should be good. I will wait for video on the others but some sounds better than I thought they might. I love the Wizard of Oz film. I always wanted ruby slippers. I love the green city and I always wished I could sing like Judy Garland. I sing more like Froggie from the little rascals

Jemi Fraser said...

YAY for Jess & Steph - they're awesome!
The Wizard of Oz is one of my all time favourite movies but I have to admit to not loving the book when I read it as a kid. I should try it again one day. LOVE the monkeys too :)

Nilanjana Bose said...

Totally love Wizard of Oz! Haven't reread the book in a while :-)

The whale film and the bear film for me.

Fantasy would be a heap of fun!

Jenni said...

I don't have any suggestions for what to work on next, but I know you'll do a terrific job whichever you choose. We're all looking forward to the new Star Wars movie at our house. My 13-year-old is counting the days. :)

DMS said...

Arlee- We totally agree that no remake cam ever top the original Wizard of Oz!:)

Michael- You are right- it isn't a surprise that there are many differences between the book and movie. Almost always the case! :)

Lorimaclaughlin- Hope you will share your thoughts if you end up reading the book! :)

Stephanie- Thanks for the good wishes! :)

Cherie- We both enjoyed Wicked too! Such a fascinating book! :)

Beverly- Awesome that your copy of The Secret Files of Fairday Morrow is in the mail. We hope you love it. :)

Sher A. Hart- Thanks for spreading the love for our blog. :)

Andrew- Thanks for joining in! :)

Chrys- We love the movie too. That is why we decided to read the book (and possibly series). :)

Liz- How interesting that you have never seen the movie or read the book. We guess those red shoes are all over the place though! They do sparkle. :)

Dolorah- We think many people have only seen the movie. We grew up watching it. There are many differences, but the monkeys are in both of them (though, not as scary in the book). :)

Shelly- We watch it at least once a year. :)

Yolanda- The flying monkeys are scary! :)

Erika- We agree that reading a book first helps us form our own visions. Definitely hard to get passed the movie in this case. :)

Medeia- We do too!

Donna- Isn't it amazing about the slippers! They look so fabulous red.

Birgit- We want the ruby slippers too! Such a beautiful movie! :)

Jemi- Thanks so much for your kind words. The monkeys are awesome! Interesting that you read the books as a kid and didn't like them. :)

Nilanjana- Isn't the Wizard of Oz fun! :)

~Jess and Stephanie

Unknown said...

So MANY awesome new book releases! Congrats to Mary, River & Christine! Looking forward to Howard's & Tarantino's latest, not to mention that other low key sci fi flick. I'd like to see you write a comedy--something along the lines of Galaxy Quest, but with better uniforms:)

Scribbles From Jenn said...

I think you would rock fantasy, just like you everything else!

Congratulations to ALL on their book birthdays!

J.H. Moncrieff said...

You can't go wrong with dragons!

The Revenant sounds interesting. I'll definitely tweet about your sale - anything to help. You do so much to help all of us.

Fundy Blue said...

Hey, Alex! I'm swamped, and I just got my IWSG post up at 11:49 p.m. LOL! I'm glad to see that you are contemplating more writing! I think you were quite drained after last April's launch. btw, I love fantasy! There are so many good movies coming up; thanks for the reviews. I'll have to get around to visiting IWSG posts in the next day or two. It has been quite the month. Thanks for all you do for the IWSG members!!!

Heather R. Holden said...

Best of luck with your short stories!

I've never read The Wizard of Oz, I must admit, but I did know that little factoid about the silver slippers. Can't help but wonder if they would've ended up as iconic as the ruby ones, had the movie went in that direction!

Sean McLachlan said...

I love M. Pax's new covers. Very well done!
Tarantino is coming out with a new one? Yay!

Empty Nest Insider said...

I remember having a Wizard od Oz picture book when I was a little girl. I loved the movie, and I remember my older son would sing along to the tape of "If I only had a heart, " when he was about 3 years old. Congrats to all the authors, and I know whatever you write will be a hit Alex! Thanks for hosting IWSG!

Julie

Rhonda Albom said...

Let your pen decide what to write next - that was a suggestion to me from my critique group, just passing it on. I tweeted out your sale. As for the Wizard of Oz, it's possibly the only story I like better as a movie. I had seen it so many times growing up and didn't read it until I had kids. It was just too different from what it should be in my head.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

Oh, okay! I've finally got "In the Heart of the Sea." I'd seen the preview commercials and was baffled because I assumed it was a "Moby Dick" remake. And Ahab looked way too young! So glad you cleared that up for me.

Shadow said...

ooo, ooooo, ooooo, movies, goooodie! you're 'tips' have 'paid off' in the past. Happy Weekend to you

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Gwen, my mother's not a fan because she doesn't like science fiction.

Mary, you're welcome!

Jo, I will! And oddly enough, no grey hair for Chewy.

Yolanda, I didn't like the film either.

Cathy, that made me chuckle.

Helena, good questions!

River, you're welcome.

Birgit, you own that film? Wow.

Samantha, you'll like my story coming out in Geekdom House's magazine this month!

Fundy, I was drained all right.

Thanks for all the help with promoting my sale, everyone!!

ediFanoB said...

Spread word about the Cassa offer over at Twitter.

Unbelievable but true. I did not see any Star Wars movie in cinema. That will change with Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

The Hateful Eight trailers so far were promising.

XmasDolly said...

Now this looks like a book I would read. I've written a book, but what happens when you cannot find the time to take it from hand written notes to computer. Aughhhh and at the same time wonder are my words good enough. After finally going on the uphill struggle from the flu I'm here typing to you telling you of my flaws. I think it's a very good book for someone who is or was in the same situation as I was. The few people that I've had read my book cannot wait until it comes out in print. Personally me too. All I need is time and courage.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Will spread the word about your book. You should definitely work on a story based around one of the secondary characters of the Cassa universe and after that go for the fantasy story :)

Misha Gerrick said...

Hmmm... that fantasy by you sounds awesome. ;-)

Congrats to everyone with books coming out.

S. L. Hennessy said...

More short stories! And I'd personally love to see some featuring some of your secondary characters. You have so many to pull from and I'd love more from this world you've created.

Sandra Cox said...

Congrats to all our wonderful writers on their new releases.

Beverly's book looks right up my alley:)

ilima said...

I love writing short stories and need to do more. Also, STAR WARS.

Patsy said...

There were flying monkies in the Wizard of Oz? I don't remember them - maybe I should watch it again.

Jeffrey Scott said...

First of all, I sent a tweet out for you. Just thought you'd like to know. I wish you success on the sale.
Wizard of Oz - I'm currently playing this on Lego Dimensions, so for now that's my preference. (And I wonder why I don't have time to read).
Santa & the Bunny - Is that a Blue Bunny? I may have actually watched this a long time ago.
Trivia - Did not do well, I only got the Gamera question correct.
STTFA - Can't wait for this. I've actually got my ticket to go already. But then again, my brother-in-law rented the theatre for a special screening and I'll be watching with him and a crowd of friends and family. I didn't even know you could do that.

Jeffrey Scott said...

PS - This is the first time I've had to select street signs and CUT & PASTE a code to prove I was not a robot.
Geez, no wonder Data from Star Trek has never visited your site before, I don't think he could honestly click "I am not a robot" with a clear conscience.

Bish Denham said...

So excited for DMS! Fantasy? What will the Ninja think of next...?

Laura Clipson said...

I can't wait to see Star Wars, I hope it lives up to the hype!

Patricia Stoltey said...

I've heard that fly fishing anthology is awesome. Can't wait to get my copy. I also need that Chicken Soup book on cats -- I should have tried to contribute to that one but procrastination ruled this year.

Mel Woodburn said...

I am so excited for Star Wars. The twins are in it, and I think Luke's going to be dark... but who knows :-) we'll just have to wait and see.

Lisa said...

I love the WOO movie and haven't read the book, but know folks who have and they love it too. I want to see The Force Awakens but am afraid of disappointment. No one has done justice to the original three, IMO...

Melissa said...

I'm still laughing at Angela Brown's comment. Duct tape. LOL

Good luck with your sale, Alex. :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks, Edi!

Marie, you need to take the next step!

Rachna, I will!

Lauren, will do!

Jeffrey, it's not me, it's Blogger - blame them for those blasted street signs that you can never get right!

alexia said...

I tried to comment yesterday and my internet went down right as I hit submit... anyways, it's back up today! I love fantasy, so I think you should go for it! And I'm super excited about Star Wars and the Hateful 8. Pretty excited about Revenant too, the trailer looks intense.

DMS said...

Heather- You bring up an interesting point about the shoes. :)

Empty Nest Insider- Thanks for sharing those memories. We loved them! :)

Rhonda- We can totally relate! :)

Patsy- You definitely have to watch it again. The flying monkeys are something. ;)

Jeffrey Scott- Now that is an interesting answer! Awesome! :)

Bish- Thanks for your good wishes. :)

Loved reading all the comments!
~Jess and Stephanie

Robyn Campbell said...

Stars Wars will be so good, Alex. I cannot wait. Fantasy sounds great, Captain. Help promoting? But of course. I'll get on that tomorrow (which is really today). I'm up late.

Congrats to Jess, Steph, Beverly and all the others. YaY Secret Files. Wahoo.

Hmm, I always love the book more. Except this time. It's the movie for me.

Tammy Theriault said...

I love that I know many of the authors with book releases!! Too cool

Deniz Bevan said...

Ooh, In the Heart of the Sea sounds intriguing. I'd like to read a book version! :-)

Love the idea of comparing the book and movie of The Wizard of Oz. It's been ages since I read the book. I know I didn't like some of the sequels... Love the movie!

John Wiswell said...

Good luck on your short stories! Do you have markets in mind for them, or would you self-publish the shorts as well?

I'm very curious about In the Heart of the Sea, as Hemsworth and Howard worked together so well on Rush.

Carrie-Anne said...

This is also the first I've heard of a new Star Wars movie! Were they intending to slip this one under the radar as a surprise, and just hope it did well based on the franchise's reputation?

I don't know if The Wizard of Oz is still among the books my parents have in storage, but I vaguely remember starting to read it years and years ago. I must not've been old enough to appreciate or understand it, since I didn't finish it.

Unknown said...

Lots of goodies on here. So much to look forward to in the month of December! :)

SpacerGuy said...

Star Wars the force awakens - I wonder how many of the ghosts will be resurrected? Is Vader one of them? He just has to be, doesn't he!!! I mean he just can't be a gonner, NOOOOOOOOOO!!!

G. B. Miller said...

Oddly enough, I've never read the book, only seen the movie more times than the average age of the commenters here. I think if I tried to read the book, it would be spoiled by the movie drifting into my subconscious for comparison purposes.

Aside: had the same problem reading "The Dead Zone" and watching the movie, and the book "No Country For Old Men" and the movie.

Books By G.B. Miller

Unknown said...

Congrats to Christine, Mary, River, Jennifer, TB, and Dean!

I think setting stories in the Cassa Universe sounds great! Trying your hand at Fantasy or Adventure might be a good idea too. I tweeted about the sale. :)

DMS said...

Robyn- Thanks for your enthusiasm and support! We loved hearing your thoughts on Oz. :)

Deniz- The movie is awesome! Glad you enjoyed the discussion. :)

Carrie-Anne- How interesting that you stared it years ago and didn't finish it. It would be fascinating to see what you thought of it now. :)

G.B. Miller- We agree that the movie definitely sticks in the brain! :)

~Jess and Stephanie

Karen Baldwin said...

It's Revenant for me. I'll watch Leonardo in any movie, but I also love the director. Didn't do the trivia, my Internet has been off for a week. Playing catchup is hell! Have a great weekend, and thanks, as always, for your comment on my blog.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Wizard movie for me. Not sure about the Star Wars movie. If one of my boys asks me to go along I will. The whale movie looks intense.

klahanie said...

Hey Alex,

Nice to see the DMS gang featured on here. Gotta' love Toto, as in the dog and not the band! Although, Toto were the back-up band to the legend that is Boz Scaggs, so not all bad. Sorry, I rambled.

I shall continue to discreetly promote you in the background, Alex. You go for a little fantasy. Even in regards to books. Yes, sadly, I have to leave now.

Gary

Belle Unruh said...

I'll pick up Cassafire at Amazon. I downloaded their free Kindle app and joined an ebook club there for $10 a month. It is a great deal. I get tons of books for free or $1-5.

I'd like to see another Dragon book, continuing where you left off.

Belle Unruh said...

Sorry, got the title wrong. CassaStar! Anyway, I got it for $132 Canadian. Thanks.

mshatch said...

I am eagerly awaiting the new star wars movie but I would like to see the Revenant as well, and maybe Heart of the Sea, though I doubt I'll get to all three. And I knew none of the trivia :(

Gail said...

The Revenant sounds much like a movie I watched long ago.

Ella said...

Wow, Captain-it seems like yesterday-oh, yeah it was when you CassaStar was released to the world! Thanks for all the great Christmas books-suggestions, I mean! lol Gosh, so many great flicks...I know what I want for Christmas-movie gift cards!

I hope you are being good, Captain and have your Christmas shopping all done for Mrs. AC.

Happy weekend, Alex-stay calm and cool!

Michelle Wallace said...

I tweeted!
Alex, if you try a fantasy story, then I just MIGHT give the sci-fi a go. (Just joking about me writing sci-fi. Who am I fooling?) LOL

emaginette said...

I'm sure once you go through all your brilliant ideas another great story will bubble to the top. ;-)

Anna from Elements of Writing

Blue Grumpster said...

Hi Alex. Star Wars and The Hateful Eight might - I'm not sure yet - might be on my list ;)

Toi Thomas said...

I think more short stories from any of your worlds would be great, but what if you created some new worlds and started writing serials about them.
I love all things Oz!

DMS said...

Susan Gourley/Kelley- We are right there with you! :)

Klahanie- So nice to have you and Penny stop by Alex's blog. Toto, the dog, is certainly hard to resist. :)

Toinette- Oz is such fun!

So great to meet and connect with everyone.
~Jess and Stephanie

Doreen McGettigan said...

I loved the Wizard of Oz book and recently bought it for my grandson. My husband watches the movie at least once a week and I have the music on my ipod and on my laptop. We are weirdos:)
I will be tweeting out your book sale.

Al Penwasser said...

I really want to see "In the Heart of the Sea."
And probably will, because I more than likely won;t be able to get in to see "Star Wars."
Like why I saw "San Andreas" before "Jurassic World."

Cynthia said...

I just bought a copy of your book and will mention about it on my Twitter.

Leovi said...

For me it's unforgettable film The Wizard of Oz with Judy Garland!

DMS said...

Doreen- You and your family would fit in perfectly with the Morrow family in our book. :)

Leovi- The Wizard of Oz and Judy Garland definitely stuck with us too! :)

So wonderful to get to connect with so many readers, writers, and movie watchers here. Thanks again for having us!
~Jess and Stephanie

Sandra Cox said...

So did you party down Friday night? We did our grocery shopping Thursday night and went Christmas shopping Friday, seriously wild.

Leslie S. Rose said...

Got my tix for opening day of Force Awakens. Sooooo excited. I remember going to my grandpa's house every year to watch Wizard of Oz in color when I was a kid. The witch's green face totally freaked out my brothers and me.

Mason T. Matchak said...

I think you should definitely try fantasy next, but I'm a bit prejudiced. :P And the new Star Wars movie has come up faster than I thought - hard to believe it's only two weeks away!

Shannon Lawrence said...

So many great new releases! Congrats to all!

Oy, I'm tired of the Star Wars advertising everywhere already, and it's not out yet.

DMS said...

Leslie- The witch was definitely scary! :) ~Jess and Stephanie

The Happy Whisk said...

Very cool about the sale and your upcoming ideas for more writing. And to think, you didn't even want to be a writer. Too bad, sucka. Once writing has got its hooks in ya' there's no turning back. Muwhahaha.

Anonymous said...

Congrats on your new book release. Looks like you are quite prolific on Amazon!

Thank you for stopping by my blog for December's IWSG. I always appreciate my monthly visits from fellow insecure writers.

XmasDolly said...

Your first commenter is right there is Star Wars everywhere and I'd like to see the movie to see how they botched it up if anything, but anyway you know how kids are they want everything Star Wars for Christmas. My one grandson was sick we call him "G" cuz he's a Jr. and daddy & him have the same names. Also, being sick and not getting the goodies is very sad for a 10 yr. old. I (believe it or not) found a Star Wars Tee Shirt for him for Three bucks! I know, huh? It was at Walmart and I was shocked, but I snatched it up. I know he didn't ask for it, but I did get him the Scooter he wanted too. Although it's used I bought some chrome cleaner & some Hero stickers and new streamers and with the help of the chrome cleaner and a Mr. Clean sponge I made it look like brand spankin' new and I was the greatest NaNee in the whole wide world once again! Woo Hoo!!! Thanks for stopping by and Happy New Year to you and yours! May you have the happiest, healthiest and the best prosperous New Year!!!