Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Insecure Writer’s Support Group, June Movie Preview, Heroes of PHENOMENA, 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 for the June 4 posting of the IWSG are C. Lee McKenzie, Tracy Jo, Melanie Schulz, and LG Keltner!

I finished my manuscript!

Despite the fact I’ve been on vacation since last Friday, I finished. I had plenty of down time to just relax, and I managed to pound out the last few pages.

I began this project feeling a bit unsure. It’s still space opera but different from my Cassa series. There was also one aspect I wasn’t sure I could pull off. (How do you describe something no human has ever experienced?) But fortunately, it occurred at a very exciting point in the story, and I think I succeeded. I also have some sub-plots and scenes to add, and I’ll begin that process next week.

But the first draft is basically done!

Be sure to visit other IWSG members.

Heroes of PHENOMENA!

Available on Amazon, Kobo, and Smashwords

From the amazing writer who put it all together, Samantha Redstreake Geary: 
“Welcome to Heroes of Phenomena, with my favorite composer gang over in Hollywood and leaders of the film music advertising industry, audiomachine! As part of a global, cross-industry promotional project for audiomachine’s upcoming public release, PHENOMENA—by celebrated composer, Paul Dinletir—we’re introducing a groundbreaking campaign to encourage the next generation of authors, artists & musicians! With each download of the upcoming FREE PHENOMENA companion ebook, audiomachine will make a donation to the LA Youth Orchestra. The ebook will also feature a dedicated YOUTH section, showcasing the talents of aspiring artists and authors from the gifted students of Elevate’s Life & Art Studios!”

I was honored to be asked to contribute to this book, and my story, CassaFate, is inspired by the song Drakon's Empire.

PHENOMENA available now from ITunes, Amazon, and CD Baby


Ninja News!

New releases:

No Free Will (Book 10 of A Shot in the Light) by Hart Johnson
And as a bonus A Shot in the Light, Parts I-IV is only 99 cents through June 13.

Don’t Fall by Rachel Schieffelbein

Played by Liz Fichera

Another New Life by Sydney Aaliyah Michelle
Find it on Amazon

Champion in Flight by Tyrean Martinson
Find it on Amazon and Smashwords

Coming soon -  
Secrets of Honor by Carol Kilgore







June Movie Preview

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

6 –


Edge of Tomorrow
A soldier fighting in a war with aliens finds himself caught in a time loop of his last day in the battle, though he becomes better skilled along the way.
Director: Doug Liman
Stars: Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Bill Paxton, Brendan Gleeson
Tom Cruise dies repeatedly at the hands of a machine gun-toting groundhog!
(So far reviews have been great, so I will be seeing this Friday.)


13 –

How to Train Your Dragon 2
It's been five years since Hiccup and Toothless successfully united dragons and Vikings on the island of Berk. When one of their adventures leads to the discovery of a secret ice cave that is home to hundreds of new wild dragons and the mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves at the center of a battle to protect the peace.
Director: Dean DeBlois
Stars: Jay Baruchel, Kristen Wiig, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill
The first ended with a metal foot and leg for Hiccup – is it possible this will end with his head on a stick?
(Perfect reviews for this one – won’t miss it!)

22 Jump Street
After making their way through high school (twice), big changes are in store for officers Schmidt and Jenko when they go deep undercover at a local college.
Directors: Phil Lord | Christopher Miller
Stars: Channing Tatum, Jonah Hill, Ice Cube, Dave Franco
Because there were so many unanswered questions in 21 Jump Street…
(The previews do have their funny moments.)

27 –

Transformers: Age of Extinction
An automobile mechanic and his daughter make a discovery that brings down the Autobots and Decepticons - and a paranoid government official - on them.
Director: Michael Bay
Stars: Mark Wahlberg, Nicola Peltz, Jack Reynor, Stanley Tucci
Wahlberg transforms into… the same character he’s played in countless other films.
(Hey, at least it’s not LaBeouf!)

Glad to be back – did you miss me? Downloading PHENOMENA and Heroes of PHENOMENA? Excited about the new releases? What’s your writing insecurity today? And what movies will you be seeing in June…?

215 comments:

1 – 200 of 215   Newer›   Newest»
ilima said...

Yay for finishing your manuscript. Woo-hoo!

I've already read Rachel's Don't Fall and LOVED it! So excited for her.

And Tom Cruise sci-fi's are one of my weaknesses...I love them all. So I'm right there with you on watching it Friday. Can't wait!

Steven said...

Congrats on finishing! I'm seeing The Day After Tomorrow as well on Friday -- it looks interesting.

Elephant's Child said...

Congratulations on finishing your manuscript. And congrats to all the other featured authors as well. Thank you, one and all.

The Happy Whisk said...

Wonderful news. Much congrats. And that's what's great about writing, so easy to do whilst on vacation or any day of the week/year.

Much congrats and boogie boogie.

Sean McLachlan said...

Hart is on book 10 already??? That's some work ethic right there.

SK Anthony said...

Awesome news, Alex! Congrats . . . and good luck with the revisions and add-ins.

Can't wait for Edge of Tomorrow! :)

Anonymous said...

That's wonderful about finishing a draft. That first draft always seems to take so long, whether I get it done in a few weeks or few months.

Great books news. I already have Sydney's book.

Empty Nest Insider said...

Congrats on completing your manuscript, as well as appearing in Heroes of Phenomena! It sounds like a great book for a worthwhile cause! Best of luck to all the authors!

Julie

Rhonda Albom said...

WooHoo! Congratulations Alex! I was on vacation last week too, only I didn't write a word on my current draft, but started a second one instead.

Welcome back :)

TBM said...

Congrats Alex. That's an awesome feeling. And appearing in Heroes of Phenomena--so cool. Best of luck to all the authors.

As for movies this summer, I have no clue. I think I need to catch up on all the winter releases I missed.

Patsy said...

Congratulations on finishing your manuscript!

Misha Gerrick said...

Congrats on finishing your first draft! That's just awesome. :-D

I want to watch Hot to Train Your Dragon 2, but I can't say I will. I haven't been to the movies since moving out to the farm.

Sigh.

Oh well. At least I live on a farm. :-D

Unknown said...

Glad to hear you finished the first draft. Congrats!

Congrats also, to the authors of all the new releases listed!

I am looking forward to watching the new Transformer movie and Tom Cruises' 'Edge of Tomorrow,' they both sound pretty good.

Melissa said...

Yes! I missed you.
Congrats on finishing your ms! That's a real achievement! :D

Arlee Bird said...

Good for you on finishing the first draft. And look at all those other book releases!

Edge of Tomorrow looks intriguing. I liked the first Jump Street film so this new one might be good. I don't think another Transformer movie is needed unless it's significantly better than the other ones.

Lee
Tossing It Out

writing and living by Richard P Hughes said...

Vacation doesn't get much better than that. Congratulations on finishing the first draft.

Optimistic Existentialist said...

Good morning Alex. I am really looking forward to Edge of Tomorrow but I am REALLY looking forward to 22 Jump Street. The first one was beyond hilarious!

Natalie Aguirre said...

Congrats on finishing. That's a great accomplishment.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Congrats on finishing your first draft and to everyone with new releases! Yes, you were missed.

Miranda Hardy said...

Welcome back! Seems the time for vacations is now. Congrats on the first draft, that's great news. So happy for you, Alex.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sean, yes it is!

Medeia, it felt like this took forever...

Rhonda, that's just as good.

Lee, with the Transformer films, it's doubtful.

Thanks, guys!

Unknown said...

Congrats on finally finishing! I've got one hanging over my head. UGH.

Movies? What are they? hehehe Like I'll get to see one any time soon.

Happy Wed & IWSG day!

Mason Canyon said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript. Sounds like you've got this one going well. Congrats to all those with books as well. From the previews Edge of Tomorrow looked like Groundhog Day meets Terminator.

Brian Miller said...

congrats on finishing the manuscript...

22 jump street....my childhood is rolling over in its grave....

so where is the free ebook for heroes of phenomena? could not find a link

Luanne G. Smith said...

Excellent news on the latest novel. And I'll bet it was fun to tackle a new story in a new world. Congrats on getting the first draft down. Now you can join me in revision hell. :P Though I'm almost done. Whew.

Cathrina Constantine said...

Congrats on finishing your first draft! That's always such a big breath of relief!

River Fairchild said...

You are always missed, Alex. No need to even wonder about it. Congrats on finishing your draft!

So many new releases. This group is on fire!

Diane Burton said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript. Great job!

Anonymous said...

CONGRATS, ALEX!! That must be exciting. Wasn't it like last year you said you weren't sure if you were writing another book? Now you've finished one! :D

I didn't realize Shia wasn't in this Transformers, but I don't know if Mark W. can save this franchise. The first remains the best.

Elise Fallson said...

It must feel great to have your ms finished, congratulations! Now the fun begins--the polishing... :)

Donna K. Weaver said...

It's been boring without you, Alex. Glad you had good break. And yay for finishing your ms. What a great feeling!

Can't wait for How to Train Your Dragon 2.

J.L. Campbell said...

Congrats on finishing the first draft, Alex. The hardest part is done. Congrats to all the folks with new releases.

Tracy Jo said...

Congrats on finishing!!! The hotel that we stayed at in CO, the Stanley Hotel was where Stephen King stayed & was inspired to finish The Shining. It's amazing how a little vacation and go a long way! :-)

Lisa said...

Go you on finishing that first draft!What a great feeling that is... I don't know when I'll be seeing any movies in the cinema, but am curious about the Tom Cruise one so will wait to hear what you think...

Jay Noel said...

I'm so excited about PHENOMENA!!! Been waiting for this for quite a while.

And congrats on your finished draft. It's scary to venture outside your normal work. That's how we grow.

Julie Flanders said...

Wow, what wonderful news!! Congrats on finishing the ms, Alex!!

Rusty Carl said...

Crap! Two months in a row I've missed.

Am looking forward to the Tom Cruise movie. Hope to see it this weekend too.

Annalisa Crawford said...

Congratulations on the first draft, Alex!

H. R. Sinclair said...

Hope you had a great bit of time off. And yeah, you finish, that's so inspiring.

So many books coming out too!

ELAdams said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript! :)

Unknown said...

Way to go Idaho!
I will be seeing How to Train Your Dragon 2 with my son, he has most of the books.

Kirsten said...

Wow! Huge congrats on making it to THE END! I can't wait to check out this new story from you. :)
Edge of Tomorrow looks like a cool movie.

Kirsten said...

Wow! Huge congrats on making it to THE END! I can't wait to check out this new story from you. :)
Edge of Tomorrow looks like a cool movie.

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the shout out, Alex. I'm actually excited about Edge of Tomorrow. It's like a sci fi version of Ground Hog Day. My most anticipated is Terminator. Markie Mark can be annoying, but robots, man. haha. Can't go wrong.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Brian, it will be out this week, so will add the link as soon as Samantha sends it to me.

LG, fortunately I like the revision stage.

Debra, I did say that...

Tracy Jo, such a cool place to stay.

Jay, you will dig the music!

Rusty, day's not over yet.

Sydney, you're welcome.

Thanks, everyone.

Julie Dao said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript, Alex! That's such a great feeling, isn't it? I hope you're feeling refreshed from your vacation, too. Sorry I haven't participated in ISWG for a while - things have been crazy but I hope to do so next month!

Bob/Sally said...

I missed 2 of the past 3 IWSG posts, but back on track today and talking about (of all things) deconstructing cartoons.

Congrats on finishing the new manuscript, Alex!

SittieCates said...

Way to go for finishing your manuscript! That's pretty awesome! So happy for you, Alex.

S.A. Larsenッ said...

Many congrats for finishing your draft, Alex! I know how that feels. Then you'll do the edits and send it off, which will (at least for me) lead to more anxiety. (Can you tell I sent my latest manuscript off, last week? I'm slightly lost, right now. Maybe ice cream would help.)

Juliana Haygert said...

Congrats for finishing the 1st draft!

I think I'm more excited to see How to Train Your Dragon 2 than any other movie this month lol

sjp said...

I can't wait for all of those movies!! I don't even know which one I'm most excited for! (let's be honest it's probably How To Train Your Dragon :P )

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

Congratulations on finishing the draft, Alex. You work at ninja speed, while enjoying a vacation too. Doubly impressive!

Thanks for the link to the mean tweets. It's funny and mostly true.

Ella said...

You were missed! Congrats, Captain!
Woo hoo-we need a star shaped cake~

Wow, l@@k at all the great new books-off to gather some gifts for new graduates and Father's Day!

How exciting-I loved what you shared and look forward to hearing more!

Ella said...

You were missed! Congrats, Captain!
Woo hoo-we need a star shaped cake~

Wow, l@@k at all the great new books-off to gather some gifts for new graduates and Father's Day!

How exciting-I loved what you shared and look forward to hearing more!

Ella said...

You were missed! Congrats, Captain!
Woo hoo-we need a star shaped cake~

Wow, l@@k at all the great new books-off to gather some gifts for new graduates and Father's Day!

How exciting-I loved what you shared and look forward to hearing more!

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...

Congratulations on finishing your manuscript! That is wonderful! As for describing something that no human has experienced, I would choose you for the task and trust that you would handle it perfectly and beautifully.

jean

PK HREZO said...

Hey Alex! Big congrats on finishing!! And wow it sounds so exciting! I think writing things we're not used to helps us really grow.
I'm looking forward to HTTYD 2!!
And that Phenomena project sounds amazing. What an awesome cause!

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

The director and the voice of the dragon are small town Canadian boys. Makes the rest of us feel hopeful.

Congratulations on finishing your ms, Alex. Way to go!

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Well done on the manuscript, Alex! And yes, you were missed! :)

Madeline @ The Shellshank Redemption

Heather M. Gardner said...

WOW! Love that you finished your first draft! Congrats.

Glad you had some time away.

Can't wait for more DRAGONS!

Look at all the new books coming out!

YEAH, US!

Heather

Rachna Chhabria said...

Congratulations on finishing that first draft, Alex. I plan to finish mine this month (keep your fingers crossed for me). I am super curious to read that scene that you have described as something that no human has experienced.

Dean K Miller said...

Trying to work the layout of my first poetry book...and yes, a bit insecure of getting it right. But am closing in on a title for the compilation.

Congrats on the manuscript. Always is great to hear of that accomplishment from others....shows we can do it.

Tyrean Martinson said...

Congrats on finishing!!! That's awesome! And, I'm looking forward to reading Phenomena and seeing a few of those movies. (but not Transformers unless my hubs can't get the movie guys at our church to go with him to that one)

And thanks bunches for including me in the line up today!!! I really appreciate it!

Jennifer Lane said...

*sings Irene Cara* What a feeling!

Major congratulations on finishing your novel. We have had a similar time frame writing but I'm not done yet, waah. Getting closer, though! So what's the next step for you?

I thought 21 Jump Street was so funny and I can't wait for 22 to answer all the unanswered questions. Ha!

Unknown said...

congratulations on finishing the manuscript !!! woo-hoo! did it really happen "despite" being on vacation or rather "because" you were on vacation? ;-)

Rachel Schieffelbein said...

Congratulations on finishing your ms! That's always a great feeling. :)
And thanks for including Don't Fall in the news! :)

Cherie Reich said...

Congrats on finishing the first draft!

cleemckenzie said...

You are back! And, yes, of course you were missed, but you've returned with a completed ms and all kinds of good news.


I've still got X-Men on my list. Maybe in June I'll have some time.

I'm putting a positive spin on my Insecurities this month.

Chemist Ken said...

Congratulations on finishing the first draft. Now the hard part is coming!!!

My daughter has been talking about How To Train Your Dragon 2 for over a year. We're all ready to see it now.

Mina Burrows said...

Congrats on finishing your first draft. Woot. That's awesome. I can't wait to take my kids to see dragon 2. :)

Shell Flower said...

Yay for finishing your manuscript. *Doing a little dance here* Have fun adding the subplots and polishing. Very exciting. Looks like some awesome new releases, too. That CD/book compilation sounds exciting, as well. Go Alex!

A Beer for the Shower said...

Congrats on finishing the manuscript and welcome back! Hmmm, something no human has ever experienced... Laughing at a new Adam Sandler movie? Playing a Justin Bieber CD cover to cover without vomiting?

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Congrats on finishing!!

(Channing Tatum doesn't have to be a different character...he just has to take his shirt off. Bwa ha ha. Just joking...don't tell my hubs!)

Maurice Mitchell said...

I agree that it must feel good to finish the first draft! Vacations can be good for many things including relaxing. I hope you have a primo rest of the day.

Charles Gramlich said...

Congrats on finishing the manuscript. The other work can be done but I never know for sure if I'm going to be able to finish until I do.

Nick Wilford said...

Congrats on finishing your draft! Look forward to seeing what you have up your sleeve...

Anything that promotes creativity is good so Phenomena sounds like a great project, congrats on your inclusion.

Theresa Milstein said...

Good luck on your new draft. I think it's great to try something new--to stretch yourself.

Wow, look at all those new books. I'll have to take a closer look.

I loved the first How to Train Your Dragon.

L.G. Keltner said...

Congratulations on finishing the manuscript! That's so exciting! And Phenomena is an intriguing project, so congratulations on being a part of that as well!

Jackie said...

Congrats on finishing your MS!!!

Jenni said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript! 22 Jump Street and How to Train Your Train 2 sound interesting-especially if 22 is funny.
Thanks for sharing these!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Julie, no worries! Just sign back up.

Bob, good to hear!

Sheri, it will be all right.

Jean, the pressure!!

Joylene, that's cool.

Heather, that made me laugh!

Rachna, I'm now really nervous to go back and read it...

Tyrean, you're welcome!

Jennifer, revisions and additions are next.

EE, probably because...

Rachel, you're welcome.

Shell, it was fun writing the story for that book.

Brandon and Bryan - now that really made me laugh!

Nick, I was honored.

Thanks, guys!

Robin said...

Welcome back. I am so happy for you on finishing your rough draft. Since I changed my schedule my revisions are coming along better.

I just want to take a moment and apologize for not having an IWSG post for today. My insecurity over the rest of my life is rampaging all over my blog. I will be back next month!

Anonymous said...

Yayyy!! Congratulations Ninja Captain on finishing your manuscript. That's fantastic news. :) I suppose I'll forgive you for not picking up your award yet. :D It's still waiting for you on my second blog. Hugs to you...We missed you!! Eva

David P. King said...

Way to knock that WiP out of the park. I too will be seeing Edge of Tomorrow AND HTTYD2. Wouldn't miss it!

So many cool releases lately. :)

Unknown said...

Alex- Terrific job finishing! I'm still trying to find the time to finish my 5th novella in my elf series. Hoping to this week.

Have a wonderful day!

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Congrats on the manuscript and being included in that book.

I am so excited about How to Train Your Dragon 2!

Ink in the Book said...

Congratulations on finishing your manuscript! Can't wait to see How To Train Your Dragon!!

Chrys Fey said...

Congratulations on finishing your manuscript!!!!

There are so many great book released now. It's hard to keep up.

Jennifer Hawes said...

The Edge of Tomorrow looks awesome & the adorable How to Train Your Dragon! I'm promising myself a trip to the movies this week. As for my ISWG post, it's going to be late. Computer problems, so I'm heading home to finish up there. UGH!! Glad you finished your first draft.

Pat Hatt said...

Congrats on getting the first draft done. Yeah just about anyone is better than Shia lol

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

Wonderful that you finished your manuscript and enjoyed a vacation as well. Good luck with the revisions. It's always exciting to have a new book!

Mary Montague Sikes

Samantha May said...

Congrats on finishing! That's always a huge relief. You deserve some chocolate for that one.

I recognize a lot of those new releases. Congrats to all the authors!!

I'm not a huge Tom Cruise fan but this film looks really, really interesting. I suppose I'll give it a chance.

Super pumped about 22 Jump Street. I had no expectations for the first one and was pleasantly surprised.

LOL at that Mark Wahlberg comment. :D

Happy Wednesday!

Christine Rains said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript! And yay for Phenomena! I do love your snarky movie comments. I'm curious about Edge of Tomorrow, but Tom just really makes me not want to see it. And Wahlberg is definitely better than LaBeouf! I don't know if you heard yet, but they started playing commercials for Sharknado 2: The Second One. (Yup, that's the title! *LOL*)

Anonymous said...

Congrats on finishing the first draft! This calls for a Kirby dance.
(>'-')> <('-'<) ^(' - ')^ <('-'<) (>'-')>

~Sia McKye~ said...

W00T! on finishing your manuscript and Phenomena.

I've seen several of the our group's new releases the past week. Some are really eye-catching. Sis-boom-bah guys and lady guys.

So far my insecurities/blahs are all around time, but it's moving. :-)

Sia McKye Over Coffee

Mary Aalgaard said...

Congratulations on finishing your first draft, and glad you had a nice vacation!
Looking forward to some good movies this summer.
Play off the Page

Sarah Foster said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript! I wish I could write that fast.

Andrew Leon said...

Okay, so, I haven't adjusted to it being June, yet, so I completely forgot IWSG. But, now, I have a topic for July!

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

I'm with Andrew and totally forgot IWSG today. I'm still on May time.

But congratulations on a job well done on finishing your next project. You are such a fast writer. I admire that in you.

Hart Johnson said...

Congrats on finishing your draft, Alex! And thank you so much for the book shout!

Vanessa Morgan said...

A new one? Already? Congratulations!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Robin, no worries!

Thanks, Eva! I will go get it.

Kane, I am in awe of you...

Jennifer, no problem.

Samantha, I thought the first Jump Street was funny.

Christine, yet another SyFy Craptastic film!

Patricia, that made me chuckle.

Andrew, you're all set then!

Michael, four months of writing feels so slow...

Hart, you're welcome.

Thanks everybody!

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hey, Alex,

CONGRATS on finishing you MS! That's fantastic!

Congrats to ALL who are putting out books this week. The numbers keep going up! All the best to you guys!

Can't wait to see, HOW to TRAIN your DRAGON 2... It looks great. Saw Malecifent on Sunday with Melissa Bradley. WE REALLY LOVED it! I want to see it in IMAX now!

Transformers looks awesome too... Can't wait!

Tina said...

Yeah for finishing! That's AMAZING and I'm so happy for you!!!!!! Way to go.
Planning to get Phenomena.
Any movie where Tom Cruise dies repeatedly is good in my opinion.

It's really been FIVE years since How to Train Your Dragon??? Where does the time go...will definitely catch this one. Viking chicks need to see their vikings ;-)

Tina @ Life is Good
On the Open Road! @ Join us for the 4th Annual Post-Challenge Road Trip!

Unknown said...

Congratulations on finishing your manuscript Alex, that's awesome!

farawayeyes said...

Finished your rough draft? Good Deal. That must really feel good.

Only movie that I really want to see is "How to Train Your Dragon 2', if I can find the time, that is.

Laura Clipson said...

Congratulations on finishing your first draft! That's great news :)

Anonymous said...

Congrats on finishing your MS. Way to go!

Nigel G Mitchell said...

The feeling of accomplishment you get when finishing a first draft is my favorite part of writing. That Phenomena book looks interesting

Karen Lange said...

Of course we missed you! It just isn't the same around here without you. Glad you had a good break. Congrats on finishing the manuscript!

LuAnn @ BackPorchervations said...

WTG on the finish, Alex! We will probably see the Transformers movie (I have two teen boys after all). Trying to figure out if I'm more insecure about failing or succeeding at writing.

You do so much for others, I'm glad to hear your took a little time for yourself!

Loni Townsend said...

Woot woot! Yay for first draft completion!

Birgit said...

Congrats!!! You have earned that rest time and more. The movies look good so we will see. I am certain the Tom Cruise one will be a hit

Al Diaz said...

I am glad to hear you finished your manuscript on time. That's so cool. And congratulations about the short story. I learned to love Audiomachine. They are really great! I'll be downloading the book.
I look forward to watch How to Train your Dragon 2, of course. Maybe there's the secret to train myself. :)

Anonymous said...

Hi, Alex. That's great that you finished up your manuscript. CONGRATS to everyone with new releases.

Suzanne Furness said...

Congrats on finishing that first draft. Glad you enjoyed your break.

kimlajevardi.com said...

Congrats on finishing the first draft of your manuscript! That's such an awesome feeling. Ice cream and movies for everyone. :)

Cynthia said...

Awesome that you finished your book. Reminds me that I need to get back to mine. =)

Bevimus said...

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! That is SO huge!!! I can't even imagine how great that must feel- swim in it!

And congrats to Sam- I'm not surprised she managed another amazing collaboration.

Kristin Smith said...

Welcome back, Alex! And congrats on finishing your manuscript! I finished mine this week too! It's a good feeling, huh? But, like you, I have to revise and add scenes and more world building. Good luck with the revisions!

Edge of Tomorrow sounds like a great movie. I'll look forward to reading your review next week! :)

Crystal Collier said...

Yay for Heroes of Phenomena! The music is epic, the stories are epic. The music is epic. Did I mention, it's epic? =)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Michael, glad you and Melissa enjoyed it!

Tina, that made me chuckle...

LuAnn, my wife insisted.

Al, you had a story with them as well, which is just awesome.

Kristin, it feels awesome - congratulations.

Crystal, I know the song with my story is epic.

Toi Thomas said...

Congrats on finishing your first draft.

I'm looking forward to experiencing Phenomena.

I'm kinda excited about the new movies, kinda not.

The new book releases look good and even though I have my insecurities, I too happy with the anticipation of summer vacation to worry about them right now.

Tonja Drecker said...

Yay to getting the 1st draft done! Wow, there's a lot of great books coming out - congrats to all!
Hope you enjoyed that vacation :)

Anonymous said...

Woo hoo! Congrats on finishing your manuscript!

Leovi said...

Really interesting to describe something that no human being has ever experienced!

kaykuala said...

That's great Alex! Congrats! Finishing your manuscript is a feat many are trying but few made starts let alone finishing them!

Hank

mooderino said...

Congrats on getting it finished.

Looking forward to that Tom Cruise movie. Been a while since I said that.

N. R. Williams said...

Hi Alex
Congrats on completing your novel. Sounds like you had a real challenge.
Nancy

J E Oneil said...

Good for you for finishing! The world needs more space operas :). I hope you're having a nice vacation.

Gossip_Grl said...

Congrats on finishing the manuscript! Also an exciting line up of movies but will have to wait for the dvd release to see.

Tonja said...

Yay for you! That's awesome!

Carrie-Anne said...

Congratulations on finishing your first draft!

Knowing Michael Bay, I'm sure the newest Transformers movie will be full of explosions and action just for its own sake.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I missed you. Congrats on finishing your book. I'm looking forward to Transformers and am so glad LaBeouf is not in it.

Carol Kilgore said...

Thanks for sharing my new cover, Alex. Congrats on finishing your manuscript!

Congrats to all with new books!

Elizabeth Mueller said...

Woohoo! Congratulations on finishing your MS, Alex! I always feel insecure when I start, but get into the groove the deeper I go.

Congrats to the new releases!

How to Train your Dragon 2 looks great, I plan to see it, too! As for Transformers. Tom Cruise coming back alive over and over in a scifi moving? Sounds interesting! :D

Karla Gomez said...

yay! Now for more work >:)

Jemi Fraser said...

I did miss you! :) Glad you enjoyed your vacation and congrats on finishing that draft!!! Great feeling.
I can't believe they're making 22 Jump St - I couldn't get through the first 10 minutes of the 1st one!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Toi, you will dig PHENOMENA!

Moody, that made me chuckle.

JE, writing them as fast as I can...

Carrie-Anne, I expect nothing less.

Carol, you're welcome!

Anonymous said...

You're always missed, Alex! Congrats on finishing your rough draft!! You didn't list the movie I'm most excited about . . . The Fault In Our Stars!!! I preordered an autographed copy of the book when it came out and devoured it in a day. I can't tell you how many reluctant readers have done the same at my school. Seeing the movie tomorrow night at a special event with my 13yo and her bestie--can't wait :-)

Julie Musil said...

Congratulations on finishing your first draft! That's awesome. And it's so cool that you tried something new (something no one has ever experienced? I'm intrigued!)

Mason T. Matchak said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript! ^_^ Naturally there's still more to do, as you said, but finishing is enough of a hurdle to celebrate.

As for describing something no human has ever experienced, I think that's something fiction writers do all the time, at least those who don't work only in the real world. Imagining an experience that's literally impossible for us to have and being able to make that come alive in the text is what all part of the job. You probably pulled it off much better than you think. ^_^

Brandon Ax said...

Congratz on finishing. I wish I was there myself. I can't wait to see what you put out.

Kimberly said...

Oh, wahoo for finishing your first draft! That's exciting!

I'm looking forward to Edge of Tomorrow - hope it's good! :)

klahanie said...

My computer took ages to get your site loaded up. I must get a new computer when I finally move.

I don't know how you do all of this. I have been commenting on sites for over ten hours and barely made a dent in my emails. Almost three in the morning and I finally get here.

I'm most pleased that you got the first draft basically done. I'm glad you had some time to relax. Yes, I was very aware you were missing. I hope you understand, but I was heartened to see you away for a bit. I want you to take care of YOU!

Thanks for all the links. When it comes to writing, I'm only worried that sometimes my postings can be misunderstood. Or why didn't I add this or that to a posting.

I cannot afford to go to the movies.

Gary

Cathy Keaton said...

You know what? You're, right. You are a slow writer. Congrats on finishing up this latest 1st draft! I do recall that you started it a while back, and this is proof that I'm not the only slow writer out there.

Someday, I'll finish my 1st draft, too. I just hope I'm not old and gray by then, but if I am, then I am.

AJ Lauer said...

Many congratulations on finishing your draft! That has to feel great :)

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

congrats finishing your first draft!! I hope you celebrated!

There's some great movies coming. I'm looking forward to many of them, in particular, Edge of Tomorrow.

Angela Brown said...

Three cheers on finishing your first draft. Completing this first step is often so important and is just as often a mark missed by those who just don't make it to the end, for whatever reasons.

Any movies I see will probably be for aesthetic purposes only (fanservice for girls looking at Wahlberg). The exception would be HTTYD2. That one would be for pure movie-watching pleasure.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

Describing something no human has experienced would be daunting! The closest I came to it was telling a tale in first person through the eyes of a fallen angel -- how to describe that unique perspective was certainly a challenge!

I am looking forward to EDGE OF TOMORROW and HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON II -- I mean it has Cate Blanchett in it!! She is to me what Miss Beckinsale is to you.

Congrats on finishing your first draft. And best of luck to all those with new books being released.

Krista McLaughlin said...

Congrats on finishing your first draft! It's a great feeling to finish the first round and know you wrote it. :)

I'm kinda curious to see Edge of Tomorrow, but I'm gonna be a girl and see The Fault in Our Stars with my two sisters this weekend. :)

Botanist said...

That "first draft done" is a great feeling, isn't it? Well done.

And I can empathize with the hesitation about taking a different line after a series. I started a sequel to Ghosts, then deliberately went off to complete a different story first so as to establish some diversity at the outset. I plan to get back to the sequel next.

Unknown said...

I just gotta wonder why anyone believes in Scientology when key figures like Hubbard and Cruise are big names in the science FICTION industry, too.

Unknown said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript! That's huge! You're so productive on your time off. I listened to some of the Audio Machine album, and it's really intriguing. It seems like great music to write to.

Nancy Thompson said...

Congratulations! You did it! Like there was any doubt. And so cool about your contribution. Let us know how the Tom Cruise flick is. I usually enjoy time travel stories. Thanks for dropping by today!

Unknown said...

Alex, you are always missed! CONGRATULATIONS on finishing! Wow, so very, very, exciting!!!

With the exception of 22 Jump St., I'll be seeing all the movies on your list wi

Helena said...

How wonderful you finished your manuscript! Doesn't it feel great? Now there's just the editing, the polishing... (Sigh) Seriously, though, congratulations.

The one movie I know I won't see is the Transformers one. I can barely watch five minutes of the earlier ones when I'm channel surfing. I mean, someone was paid to write these stories? Seriously?

HistorySleuth said...

Hurray for finishing first drafts! And the crowd cheered!!!!!
History Sleuth's Writings - IWSG

Shah Wharton said...

I missed this month's IWSG post. I've had a ton of posts to schedule, stories to ghostwrite, and the in-laws have been staying till last night (for ahem, a wonderful month!) so I just couldn't fit it in.

So glad you enjoyed you break (in spite of the fact that you worked!) - Great to have a finished first draft... But I hate what comes next (although you don't I believe?).

I visited the PHENOMENA site last time you posted about it. I loved the music - very inspirational for writing - moody! I added it to my wishlist. But I couldn't find where to download the book? Must have missed it? Will try again.

shahwharton.com

Suzanne said...

Yay for finishing your manuscript! I'm looking forward to seeing Edge of Tomorrow, not so fussed about the others!
Suzanne @ Suzannes-Tribe
x

Unknown said...

Congratulations on finishing Alex! That is a huge achievement!!

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Congratulations on finishing your manuscript! That's my favorite stage of writing -- when the first draft is complete, I know the story exists and I really can finish it, and I usually have plenty of ideas how to make it better.

Diving into a second draft with a plan is always exciting for me.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jamie, you go enjoy!

Mason, true. Although this is something even more far removed than say teleportation that it really had me worried.

Gary, takes Ninja skills. Thanks, I did take care of me last weekend. And I've never had trouble understanding your posts.

Cathy, we're just careful writers!

Angela, that made me chuckle.

Roland, was the fallen angel sad or bitter?

Botanist, it's difficult.

Sleepy Bison, you said it!

Michael, it was excellent music to write to.

Nancy, review on Monday!

Helen, and they've made two billion dollars!

Shah, no worries. And the book will be available this week - I'll post the link when it's live.

Thanks, guys!

Liza said...

Congrats on finishing your draft! That's a great feeling.

Liz Blocker said...

Congratulations on finishing, Alex!! That's fantastic!! And congratulations to Samantha - amazing project - and all of the writers with releases this week. It's another great week!

Leovi said...

Edge of Tomorrow can be spectacular!

Unknown said...

Congrats on finishing the manuscripts! That's fantastic :) Wow! Lots of new books out soon. Congratulations to all of those with new book babies :D

How To Train Your Dragon is one of my favorite movies. I'll definitely be there to see the second. You know, a date with my inner child :) Tom Cruise repeatedly dying...hmmm, this movie has potential.

A Transformers without LeBeouf OR Megan Fox??? Sign me UP!!

mail4rosey said...

Congrats on being done with the manuscript. Wishing you many sales when it hits the market.

I didn't see 21 Jump Street, but my older (grown) kids did and they were laughing all the way through. I bet they'll like the new one too.

Jeff Chapman said...

Congrats on completing the first draft. The first draft is always the hardest for me, probably because I want to go back and start tinkering before I'm done with it.

Unknown said...

WOOT! Congrats on your MS!! Many thanks for the fantastic shout-out! Our Phenomena ebook is ready to go, and it looks amazing! Working out a launch plan now:)
WriterlySam

mshatch said...

Edge of Tomorrow and How to Train Your Dragon are both movies I want to see - after Xmen.

Congrats on finishing :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Dianne, it's my favorite part as well.

Jen, I think that's Transformer's biggest selling point.

Jeff, I just have a hard time getting my thoughts on paper.

Samantha, I'm very excited about the book!

Sherry Ellis said...

Congratulations on completing the first draft of your manuscript! That had to be a lot of writing!

Sheena-kay Graham said...

Congrats on finishing your manuscript and thanks for your words of encouragement. Edge of Tomorrow and Dragon 2 are must sees for me. June 22 if I can afford it. Sorry Transformers, not likely.

M Pax said...

Woot woot on getting that first draft done. I'm still slaving and sweating over mine.

SC Author said...

Congrats in finishing! Drafting is usually the hardest part for me; it just takes FOREVER.

Michelle Wallace said...

Congrats on finishing your first draft!
Lots of new releases! Those covers look FAB!

Sarah Ahiers said...

I'm super excited for Dragon 2 and we'll also be seeing Tomorrow tomorrow (heh)

Patricia Stoltey said...

LOL! My eyes played tricks on me -- I thought you were posting about the Judi Dench movie, Philomena. What???

G. B. Miller said...

Congrats on getting the "easy" part done to your latest masterpiece. :D

Father Nature's Corner

Truedessa said...

Congrats on completing your manuscript now comes the editing..

Susan Kane said...

I will totally skip Jump street 22. I will enjoy all the others. Glad to see you back.

T.F. Walsh said...

Huge congrats on getting the draft of your new book completed... massive achievement. I just hit half way point on my new book... will feel so good once it's done:)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sherry, it's the shortest manuscript I've finished so far, but it felt long.

Patricia, not the same thing...

GB, not easy for me!

Truedessa, the fun part!

Lori L. MacLaughlin said...

Congratulations on finishing the first draft of your new book! It's such a great feeling to get to the end. Thanks for stopping by my blog! I appreciate the encouragement.

Trisha said...

I enjoyed 21 Jump Street even though it was lame. So I'll probably see 22 Jump Street sometime ... somehow. :)

dolorah said...

Congrats on finishing the ms. Whoop whoop.

dolorah said...

Congrats on finishing the ms. Whoop whoop.

Jennifer Hillier said...

Woo hoo, congratulations on finishing! Always such an exciting thing (and big relief) to type THE END. :)

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

Congratulations to you!! That's a huge accomplishment. Whew!

Thanks for the summer movie rundown! I think I'll either keep returning to this post or copy it out to my calendar. Some good stuff, I think.

Cathy Kennedy said...

Joining the #IWSG a couple days late (the story of my life), but nonetheless I am here. Writing insecurities? Getting started. Movies? We downloaded three new ones: The Monuments Men, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, & Non-stop. We will watch at least one of these tonight. Thanks for hosting & encouraging the rest of us to keep at it!

Cathy Kennedy said...

One more thing, congrats on getting the first draft completed!

Laura Pauling said...

Congrats on finishing that first draft! It's always a milestone to celebrate! Now comes the hard part. :)

Unknown said...

You finished!? Wow, good for you, Alex. Such a great feeling. :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Lori, thanks for joining the IWSG!

Elizabeth, not a lot of movies, but some solid ones.

Cathy, glad you joined us. And the Jack Ryan movie is really good.

Laura, the editing is the easy part for me.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Yay for finishing your manuscript. Enjoy the revisions.

I hope to see The Fault of our Stars in June.

Have a lovely weekend.

Karen Jones Gowen said...

Congrats on finishing yet another one, Alex! I remember early in your career when I first met you in blogland, you always said it would be just one book. Ha!

Catherine Stine said...

Congrats on finishing your new novel!!!

Murees Dupè said...

Congratulations on finishing your manuscript. I hope you enjoyed your vacation. I can't wait to see 22 Jump street and the new Transformers. It should be good.

Old Kitty said...

Oh my goodness, am I your 200th comment-er!?!? Yay!!!

Awww Capn Ninja!! I totally missed you on Mondays so am catching up now! Ah - but you have been on holiday! And also been A Very Busy Capn!! HUGE congrats with finishing your ms!!!! But then again you are the Ninja One!

I CANNOT WAIT for How to Train Your Dragon 2! I loved the first one and hope Hiccup doesn't lose any more of his anatomy!! Oh dear! LOL! Have a great weekend! Take care
x

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