Monday, November 10, 2014

Interstellar Review, Jousting in the Realms Faire, Mini-Alex, Five Years of Blogging, and Ninja News and Writing Opportunities

I’m a guest at Caffe Maggieato today for the Author Interview Series: Behind the Scenes with Alex J. Cavanaugh.

Interstellar Movie Review

The earth is dying and a group of explorers is sent through a wormhole to find a new home. Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Matthew McConaughey.

Interstellar is a unique film. It has the feel of 2001: A Space Odyssey and tackles some really big concepts – worm holes, relativity, gravity, and time.

The effects are amazing, especially those of the wormholes. Nolan really shows what it might feel like to travel to another galaxy.

It’s a slower paced film, but it’s incredibly intense with some excellent action scenes. The film is long – 169 minutes – and probably could’ve been trimmed shorter.

Emotionally it packs a punch. This is not a feel-good film, but there is a sense of hope. You will be exhausted when it’s over.

The film isn’t perfect. There are tiny holes and I have no idea how much of the science is accurate.

Considering the scope and time frame of the film though, Interstellar is incredibly ambitious. Not many directors would’ve been capable of pulling off such a massive story. It sticks with you and you’ll find yourself thinking and talking about it for hours.

Recommended.

Realms Faire!

Today kicks off the week-long event of the Realms Faire, hosted by M Pax.

And today the Ninja Knight is jousting! Visit M Pax. and cheer for me today (my cheer - Ninja Army Rocks!) and you will be entered to win a review copy of Dragon of the Stars.

There are tons of games and prizes all week long. You can continue to cheer for me every day and be eligible to win books and gift cards. Plus the knight with the most cheers at the end of the tournament wins!

Please show everyone that the Ninja Army is a force to be reckoned with!


Ninja News

At the A to Z Blog today is Karen Jones Gowen with her theme of life in Guatemala.

Thanks to all who commented on the cover for my next book, Dragon of the Stars. (And you can add it on Goodreads now!) Thanks to those who shared it on their site. It releases April 7, 2015, right in the middle of the A to Z Challenge, and several of you suggested I make it part of my Challenge theme. Thanks, I intend to do that!

Tonja Reynolds is the new fiction editor at Licking River Review, a literary/arts journal published annually at Northern Kentucky University. We are accepting submissions of fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, critical essays, and art until January 31. We invite submissions of traditional and experimental styles by both new and veteran writers. Please review the submission guidelines for details.

Samantha Redstreake Geary announced this opportunity: Enter the world Of Mist And Magic, where fairy tales are reimagined under the influence of Epic Music Vn & Really Slow Motion‘s enchanting music! Submit your own twist on a classic fairy tale, inspired by composer, Phill Lober‘s ‘The Eternal Rest of a Ronin‘ (featuring gifted violinist, Kelly Ryu), and YOU could win a spot in the upcoming Of Mist And Magic anthology!

Interested in reviewing books? Sher A Hart has started a Review Queue for kid lit authors – visit her site for details.

PK Hrezo has started a Story Scientist service for writers – see her site for details.
Plus, her book, Induction Day, is now available!





New Releases:

Gears of Brass is a steampunk anthology published through Curiosity Quills. Within the pages, you’ll come across clockwork inventions and steampunk-ified fairy tale retellings. Eleven authors will guide you through worlds filled with airships, top hats, and corsets – including our very own S.A. Larsen
Find Gears of Brass at Curiosity Quills Press.

Now available – The Attic of Sand and Secrets by Medeia Sharif

Lily, a learning disabled girl, attempts to unravel the mystery of her abducted mother using supernatural clues from an ancient stranger, even when it means posing a danger to herself.

The book takes place in 1976. Every host for this book blast is going to post one fun fact for that year.

My fun sports facts: The Pittsburg Steelers beat the Dallas Cowboys in Superbowl X, the Montreal Canadians beat the Philadelphia Flyers for the Stanley Cup, and the Boston Celtics beat the Phoenix Suns in the NBA Finals.

Christmas novella, Married by Midnight by Talli Roland
Find it at Amazon US and Amazon US

You Cannot Kill a Swan by Carrie-Anne Brownian

Mini-Alex

Just a friendly reminder – forty-four more days until Christmas!






Five Years

And November 9 marked five years since I began blogging. That first post was lame and I had no followers. My heartfelt thanks to those who decided to follow me and continue to visit. You are all awesome friends and I could not have done it without you. Here’s to another five years!

Anyone else see Interstellar? Participating in the Realms Faire? Interested in those writing opportunities and new books? What do you remember about 1976? And who’s done with his Christmas shopping? And how many years have you been blogging…?

Be sure to cheer for my Ninja Knight at the Realms Faire!
And visit Caffe Maggieato!

135 comments:

Tony Laplume said...

All in all a pretty favorable impression of Interstellar. Good to see.

TBM said...

Congrats on five years! Time flies. I haven't seen the film, but I'm a huge fan of Nolan, even though his movies can be a bit complicated with loose ends. And I added your book to my Goodreads. So exciting!

Rhonda Albom said...

I haven't seen Interstellar yet, but I will cheer for you at the Realms Faire. Congrats to everyone with a new book featured here.

Holy Ghost Writer said...

Interstellar was very good, but not his best. Congrats on 5 years

Unknown said...

Huzzah! Sir Ninja!
You are certainly a might foe to battle, but Sir Mist will show his stealth on the field and take you in battle head on.

Dragon of the Stars cover looks good, just added it to my TBR list!

Natalie Aguirre said...

I think I missed your cover reveal. It's awesome! Just added it to my Goodreads list.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

Congratulations on 5 great years of blogging, Alex! You've always been consistently good and a dependable friend to other bloggers!

Interstellar sounds like a good one. I like space movies.

1976...kindergarten. I didn't take naps at naptime. :)

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Congrats on five years of blogging, and good luck in the Joust! I'll have to stop by the Realms Faire to cheer you on. Right now, I'm going to check out PK Hrezo's site.

Fashion Lover said...

I'd like to view his film!! Thanks for the review!!

XOXO!

Jemi Fraser said...

Yay for those 5 years! So much fun has been had :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

TBM, thanks!

Rhonda, appreciate that.

Holy Ghost, no, not his best.

Carolyn, the joust is on! And thanks.

Natalie, thank you!

Elizabeth, thanks. And that's funny.

Unknown said...

The hubs actually is considering taking me to the movies...GASP! I know, can you even imagine?!!?!?!?!?!

Here's to hoping.

In 1976 I was two. I DO remember my great grand parent's 50th anniversary celebration. My earliest memory. :)

Congrats on the blogging anniversary. You're the most faithful I know.

Al Diaz said...

Happy to say Dragon was the first in wishing you happy virtual birthday.
Dropped by joust already. Too bad dwarves cant vote. Three times for 150 and you would be set.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Happy Five Years! :)

Saw "Million Dollar Arm" his weekend - a nice, feel good movie. :)

Started Christmas shopping....

Melissa said...

Congrats on five years. :)

Ah... the bicentennial. I remember wearing red, white, and blue, including a pair of jeans embellished with a US flag and all kinds of patriotic symbols. We students decorated squares of fabric. Someone took them and made a pieced skirt for one (history?) teacher and a poncho for the other--a male and the heartthrob of the whole fourth grade. LOL

Pat Hatt said...

Sounds like it is well worth a watch, may wait for the dvd though. Congrats on 5 years, half way to 10!

Karen Lange said...

Thanks for the review and all the info. Will go cheer for the Knight!

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

Happy Blogoversary! It must feel strange and amusing to think back to when you had no followers, Alex. How far you've soared. Here's to another 50. Smiles. xo

H. R. Sinclair said...

Thanks for the reminder about Christmas Alex-did my sarcasm come across?

Interstellar looks like a bit of a snooze fest - and depressing.

Good luck at the joust.I should tell you everyone I've cheered for in the past has not done well. :(

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Terri, go to the movies! And you remember more than I do at that age.

Al, that would be awesome if they could.

Thanks, Karen!

Robyn, I did start that way.

Holly, yes it did. And time to break that streak.

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Congratulations on 5 years of blogging! I started in January 2010, so I'm coming up on a 5-year anniversary too. My first followers were my husband and my sister. Hurray for loyal family!

Interstellar sounds interesting, but I like plot and character better than action and special effects. Which is why Gravity was kind of bleh for me. How does Interstellar stand up to my standard of A Really Good Story?

kaykuala said...

Five years at it, congrats Alex. You've been friends guiding many for that duration. Interstellar seems a great space story. Hope to get to see it!

Hank

J.L. Murphey said...

Hmmm, 1976. Got married and spent the next 16 years in hell. Carter was elected president. Countries bicentennial. Carrie, Rocky, Charlie's Angels, Bionic Woman, debuted. Apple was founded. Swine Flu vaccine. I got and landed in hospital in with severe allergic reaction. The Concord landed in US. Operation Entebbe. Nadia Comaneci scores a perfect 10.

Nicki Elson said...

My baby sister was born in 1976 & I cannot imagine life without her. Congrats to Media & all the authors w/ new books. Congrats to you on 5 AMAZING years!

Charles Gramlich said...

I'm looking forward to seeing Interstellar.

Christine Rains said...

5 years is awesome! Congratulations! Realms Faire is huge and amazing this year. So many generous folks donated prizes. Good luck in the joust! I'm almost done with my Christmas shopping. Just need to get my husband and mom gifts. Have a great week!

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Happy five year anniversary.

I purchased a few gifts already, but I still have a lot of shopping to do.

Tonja Drecker said...

Congrats on five great years! The Realms Faire is amazing - already did my joust cheer. I'm partially done with Christmas shopping. So many thanks for reminding me of the count-down :p

Cathrina Constantine said...

You've come a long way in 5 years, Alex! In 1976 I was young and carefree, a good time!!

Dani said...

5 years! Whoa! That's amazing!

Not that I'm all hum-buggy but I'm not ready for Christmas to come. I'm totally ready to decorate and might even bring out the tree and stuff next weekend but I'm not ready in the head for it yet. You know? It's a lot of pressure!

Shell Flower said...

Interstellar sounds cool. A movie you can't stop talking about it always good. Happy Bloggyversary! Congrats to everyone with a new release.

A Beer for the Shower said...

Wow, congrats on five years! We're only going on four years at the end of the month, and it's weird, because it doesn't feel like that long, but at the same time, it feels like we've been blogging forever. I can't imagine life without blogging now. Everything interesting I see is always, "Ooh, that would make a cool blog topic!"

(Don't worry, our first posts were lame too. Everyone's is. Plus, not even any pictures!)

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Five years is a lot of blogging. Here's to five plus more.

Going to take a look at the Realms Faire and cheer for you.

Media's book blast should be fun.

Have a great week.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Dianne, the characterization was much better in Interstellar than Gravity. Thus the emotional drain. (My wife cried several times during the film.)

JL, sorry about living in hell.

T, thanks for cheering!

Dani, we'll wait until the end of the month to decorate.

Brandon and Bryan, I can't imagine not blogging either.

Thanks, Beverly!

Jeremy [Retro] said...

Music to my ears, Tuesday marks the return of Pink Floyd... and today is the first day to the rest of our lives. New job on the surface, old job is left behind... friends made, friends forgotten. Your site has been and will be forever a staple in the blog world, I only hope that I have the same.

Celebrate... the posts from the first until the last. I raise my glass and toast you Alex, thank you for a happy five years.

We SALUTE You!

Jeremy

Unknown said...

1976--I was quite a ways off from coming into the world, but that's the year my favorite babysitter (and still family friend!) was born :) Interstellar sounds great. Hearing so much about it. And I hear you, my first blogs were a joke. I tried makeup blogging to start simply because I write YA fiction about girls who love makeup! Needless to say, they sucked, and I love blogging about writing a LOT more :)

Heather M. Gardner said...

Hello Alex!

The movie did look interesting. I promise to give it a try when it comes out on DVD. I need to save all my pennies to get Guardians for Christmas, which you so heartlessly reminded us is right around the corner. :)

I'm off to visit you in all the other places you are appearing on the inter-web. :)

Happy blog-i-versary! I'm so glad you never quit!

Heather

Robyn Campbell said...

I could have gone all day without that reminder, Mini Alex. *sigh*

Congrats on the Blogoversary. Five more. Yeah. Cheers!

YaY for Medeia. Her stories are ALWAYS good.

I might go see Interstellar. Sounds really good.

I'll stop by Caffe Maggieato.

Karen Jones Gowen said...

I'd like to see Interstellar but it may be awhile. It sounds like one that would be much better on the big screen than on Netflix, where I see most of my films now. I saw Gravity when it came out and thought how much less impact it would've had without the big screen and 3 D. I love a good sci fi film.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

My one son saw Interstellar in Imax and came home with a headache though he liked it.
Ouch on the reminder for Christmas. Children are difficult to buy for as they get older.
Congrats on your five year anniversary.

mail4rosey said...

I was 6 in 1976. I remember my first grade teacher. ;)

Christmas is going to be here so fast. I'm not ready this year... by now I usually have most of my shopping done. All I've got is one DVD, I'm way behind.

Dean K Miller said...

Interstellar may be my only chance to travel through a worm hole. Who wouldn't want to do that?

I started my blog life around 2011, though it seems much longer. Worked as many as 3 different blogs at once...never to repeat that craziness.

1976: HS sophomore, got my driver's license and broke up/reunited with girlfriend 3 times (at least.)

Stephen Tremp said...

I'm looking forward to Interstellar. So far Jodie Foster in Contact had the best wormhole ride in a movie but it looks like this movie will far supercede it.

Leovi said...

Yes, just wonderful, great sculptures! You've convinced me to see Interstellar, good review!

John Wiswell said...

I enjoyed Interstellar, but immediately came to appreciate it more after discussing it with friends. I saw it with the right crowd of very intelligent people.

Hans Zimmer turned in yet another score that is unlike his canon and, if the film is successful, could define him for a period. The sound design was great. Anne Hathaway still rules. The robots have a small role but are so excellently deployed. And those planets they visit! Holy crap, right down to the way we're introduced to them. A lot of great stuff in that movie.

Sarah Ahiers said...

There were definite problems with Interstellar, but even picking up on those, we really loved it. I thought it tripped a bit mostly towards the end, but i could have watched them in space for the whole movie and been happy.
I wish we had more space exploration movies

Catherine Stine said...

Interstellar sounds good. Gotta see it!

Unknown said...

Congratulations on your five years blogging. I've been at it for three and a half and like yourself those first couple of months were wretched.

StratPlayerCJF said...

Congratulations of five years, Alex!!!!!

1976? I was a sophomore in high school -- driver's training and getting my license was probably the highlight of that year. Oh -- and my first 'real' concert: Kiss with Bob Seger as the warmup band.

I've heard mixed reviews on Interstellar, but several of the positive ones have been very positive. I'll try and catch it.

And good luck in the Joust! I'm looking forward to the new book!

Anonymous said...

It's getting to be that time of year again - Christmas books at the ready. I wasn't too sure about seeing Interstellar, but now I might have to after reading your review. Congrats on 5 years of very successful blogging, Alex!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jeremy, cheers to you!

Beth, that's funny. Glad you switched because I would have a hard time commenting on makeup.

Heather, never give up, never surrender!

Karen, this one definitely needs a big screen.

Susan - gift cards!

Dean, that's funny.

Stephen, it will!

John, yes!!

Sarah, maybe Hollywood will get the message.

Chris, Kiss and Seger is an odd combination.

Mary Aalgaard said...

Interstellar sounds interesting. Maybe I'll take my boys to that one. Happy Blogaversary!
Play off the Page

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

I didn't like Interstellar because it wasn't a "Feel Good" film as you said. That came as a surprise to me. I felt emotionally drained. I actually never want to see it again. I'm glad Big Hero Six came in number one because it's a better film instead of that depressing hopeless Christopher Nolan mess.

Tonja said...

Thanks, Alex.

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Yes, I am jousting, so I didn't cheer. Bratty, right? Bwa ha ha! Nope to Interstellar. No happy ending? Makes it a renter.

I need to start Christmas shopping. Thank you mini Alex for the reminder!

Anonymous said...

Congrats on your birthday on blogging...Where would we be without you?
Wonderful selection of books as usual, and all the other favourite subjects you cover.

Have a good day.

G. B. Miller said...

I don't remember much about 1976 except people were going ga-ga about the Yankees & the Sox.

I've been blogging for 6 1/2 years right now, and I'm not sure if I'll make it to a 7th.

Father Nature's Corner

Julie Flanders said...

I really want to see Interstellar. Glad you enjoyed it.
Realms Faire is always fun. :)

ilima said...

I loved Interstellar. As a physics graduate, I had to work hard to ignore the iffy science but at the same time enjoyed delving into a few things (especially with relativity) that you normally don't get in a blockbuster movie like this. And I very much liked that it was really a story about the relationship with his daughter. These are the kinds of stories I like to write...very emotional with emphasis on characters and relationships with the backdrop of a high stakes sci-fi world. I'm excited to see it again with my kids.

Stephanie Faris said...

Any excuse to stare at Matthew McConaughey for two hours!!! Afterward, if you asked me what I thought, I'd probably say, "Huh? There was a plot? I don't know...I was too busy staring at the lead actor."

Elephant's Child said...

Is it really a year since the last Realms Faire? How did that happen? Where did the year go.
And good luck in your joust.

Patricia Stoltey said...

1976 -- I was a mom. wife, and worker bee for a regional grocery chain -- lived in Muncie, Indiana. Sounds a little boring, but I promise you, my life has never, ever been boring.

Luanne G. Smith said...

Yeah, looking forward to Interstellar. I've heard good things. Probably best to see that one in a real theater too.

Andrew Leon said...

I'm going to go see it, because it's probably going to be nominated, but I'm not expecting much.

Birgit said...

You are the 2nd person to critique Interstellar. The 1st one didn't care for it much and he mentioned it could have been shortened. I have started buying for Christmas but not done at all yet. Mini ninja Alex should be among poppies:) I was 12 in 1976, in grade 7. The only thing I recall from that year, at this moment, is that my dad almost died from getting his 2nd hip replacement:) I remember getting lost in the hospital and feeling like Dr. Johnny Fever from WKRP. That was the time when they used colour coded tiles on the floor. I was to follow the yellow line to the green line and turn left at the green line until i got to the red line which was to bring me to the elevators (I stopped for a chocolate bar and I told my mom I would be right behind her). I ended up in the laundry area all lost and confused

Carol Kilgore said...

Congrats to everyone with new books and covers! I have one more outing and a few more online orders to make, then I'm done with shopping. Then I have to wrap. Ugh.

Liz A. said...

Congrats on five years.

Yesterday (I think it was yesterday) Neil Degrasse Tyson had a bunch of tweets about Interstellar, talking about the science only, not the film per se. Kind of interesting.

Dixie@dcrelief said...

I'll be cheering for your knight!! A lot of good sounding 'reads' today - thanks for that.
Also your visits to An Artful Blogger are greatly appreciated!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Tonja, you're welcome!

Elizabeth, I wish you luck!

GB, hope you do!

Ilima, that is what it was about. Very heavy film, but so ambitious and character driven.

Stephanie, you sound like my wife when we see a movie with Hugh Jackman...

Patricia, I doubt it's been boring!

LG, it is better.

Andrew, doubt it will win, as it's polarizing.

Birgit, that's quite a story.

Liz, as I said, no idea how much of it was real. Not into science.

Dixie, glad we connected again!

Cherie Reich said...

Congrats on your blog-versary!

Unknown said...

Keep up the good work! come follow me
http://makeituporfunny.blogspot.com/">Make

Meradeth Houston said...

I'm looking forward to Interstellar--it looks very interesting. And so many awesome new releases, too!

Anonymous said...

I have books in the Realms Faire giveaways. Last year I jousted and was creamed pretty badly. =(

The Happy Whisk said...

Congrats on five years. Wow, that's great. I just hit four.

Now ... for more stuff about you. Figure I'll nag you about once every two months or so.

:-)

RaveAir said...

Happy 5 years aniversary. 9th November is an important day of my life because of my wife's birthday.

I put your incoming book to the "Want to read" virtual shelf.

Suzanne Furness said...

Congratulations on the five years and heres to many more. Might try and catch the movie.

Thanks mini Alex - better get on with the shopping!

Suzanne Furness said...

Congratulations on the five years and heres to many more. Might try and catch the movie.

Thanks mini Alex - better get on with the shopping!

M Pax said...

For A to Z you could have people post something about your books using AtoZ to get out on other blogs. :) I can host you any Wednesday in April.

I put your 'special' words in today's post. So they're there. :)

Interstellar sounds pretty good. I'll have to check it out. Look at all those books and opportunities. I love seeing that.

Chrys Fey said...

Happy 5 years of blogging, Alex!!!! I added "Dragon of the Stars" to my TBR list. And I cheered for you! :D

Anonymous said...

I'd like to see Interstellar.

Thank you for sharing my book, and I'd like to get some of those listed.

I'll check out your book on Goodreads.

Sherry Ellis said...

Congrats on 5 years!

I saw Interstellar. I really enjoyed it - not your average space movie. I want to see it again, to try to wrap my head around some of those concepts. (The ending was a little odd. If Cooper is going back for the girl, there'd be a time differential. I wonder if there will be a part 2.)

J.L. Campbell said...

Congrats to Medeia and everybody else with a new book out! Jeez, can't believe that Christmas is that close.

Jo said...

I'm kind of taking part in the Realms Faire.

I like the sound of Interstellar and will make sure to see it later.

On your recommendation I rented Maleficent from iTunes this week.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Patricia, I'm sorry!

Ivy, I'll do better on Wednesday.

Zoltan, that's awesome!

Mary, thanks! Forgot about that. And appreciate that - I will probably take you up on that offer.

Chrys, thanks!

Medeia, you're welcome.

Sherry, I guess it depends on how much time passes on her planet.

Jo, let me know how it is - I didn't recommend it because I haven't seen it.

L.G. Keltner said...

Congratulations on five years of blogging! That's impressive. I definitely plan on seeing Interstellar. I'm just not sure when I'll get the chance. Hopefully soon!

Helena said...

Five years later and you're a ninja rock star published writer with hordes of followers! Congratulations, Alex.

It looks like Interstellar will be one of those movies everyone will see and talks about for a long time. Of course I'll be seeing it too. Thanks for the review.

Bob Sanchez said...

I don't see lots of sci-fi movies, but your Interstellar review makes me want to see that one.

Cindy said...

Your review of Interstellar was similar to what a friend told me about it. I also heard it was 3 hours long, so maybe that's why you were exhausted. It's sound interesting, and I will probably wait until it's available in video.

Carrie-Anne said...

I've had my current blog since March 2011, though I began my old Angelfire site in the fall of 2000, earnestly began adding content in January 2001, and lost it in the fall of 2010. It's a long, sad story how my entire site came to be deleted and yanked from under me. At least I was able to save a lot of my content while it was still able to be accessed through cache searches.

Trisha said...

I saw the preview for this and it looked amaaaaazing! I can't wait to see it. But I've gotta wait till it's the $10 movie of the week. ;)

Congrats on your 5 years of blogging! You sure have come a long way since that "lame" and "no followers" beginning. :) I'm so glad I found your blog & eventually started leaving comments. haha

Going to GoodReads now to add your book!

DMS said...

I have not seen Interstellar yet- I am very far behind on my movie watching!

In 1976 I was two- so I don't remember much, just what I have seen in pictures. :)

Congrats on 5 years! I have to look back to see how long I have been blogging. I think almost 4 years...
~Jess

Roland D. Yeomans said...

I was considering skipping my sleeping in on my day off to see it --

But I can be depressed & intense for free! :-)

DVD for me, though I am sure the special effects deserve to be seen on the wide screen.

5 years, huh? It probably seems much less, right? It does for me. :-)

Truedessa said...

I heard Interstellar was very good. I am hoping to catch it this weekend. Congrats on 5 years of blogging.

mshatch said...

Liked your review for Interstellar; I really want to see it plus I like Nolan. I've also been blogging for five years, haven't even started my Christmas shopping, and in 1976 I was listening to Deep Purple, Lynnyrd Skynnyrd, & Johhny Winter.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Cindy, I was exhausted on many levels. It didn't feel long though.

Carrie-Anne, I'm sorry!

Trisha, glad you found me as well.

Roland, it does need the big screen. And yeah, many downer moments, but it is a movie of hope.

Marcy, you rocker you!

Leandra Wallace said...

I just finished a short story that has a wormhole invention in it! It hurt my brain to try and write, and I'm not sure how well I executed it, but I tried, which is all that matters, right? =)

Unknown said...

Interstellar doesn't sound like my thing, but thanks for the review!

Congrats to Medeia, Talli, and Carrie-Ann!

Happy 5-year Blog-versary! :)

Jenni said...

Congrats, Alex, on the 5 years! I've been blogging for almost a year now, so I'm impressed.
Interstellar sounds intriguing. I don't watch a lot of sci-fi, but what you said about the questions and the emotional ride captured my attention.
And congrats to Medeia, Talli, and Carrie-Ann!

Tyrean Martinson said...

Happy Blogaversary!!!
Interstellar looks interesting but I haven't seen it yet.
Go, Realms Faire!

Arlee Bird said...

I heard some rave and some really bad reviews for Interstellar. The way you describe the film it sounds like something I'd enjoy. I'll have to remember to see it after it comes out on DVD.

Lee
Tossing It Out

Empty Nest Insider said...

Congrats on your 5 year Blogaversary, Alex! Look how much you've accomplished in that time! I'm sure no mortal will be able to compete with you at the Realms Faire! Great review for Interstellar! Congrats to all of the authors!

Julie

Murees Dupè said...

Congratulations on your five year blog anniversary. I hope there will be many more great years to come.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - congratulations on five years ... and I've visited Karen - loved learning about Guatemala .. and now you'll be A-Zing about your new book - that does makes sense as the publication takes place during 2015 A-Z ...

Talli's book, Mary's Faire ...

I went to see Babadook - not for the faint hearted ... and thankfully I was able to release my brain from being too caught up in it. The actress and child actor are amazing ... not a film I'd normally see - but certainly triggered some thoughts - not for your wife, but you sometime! The owner of the cinema complex and his manager - both said it was worth seeing ... and it was.

Cheers Hilary

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - I meant to add .. that the film was crowd-funded .... interesting I thought. Cheers Hilary

Donna K. Weaver said...

We babysat for one of our sons last night so he and his wife could go see Interstellar. He loved it!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Leandra, that's what matters.

Lee, I think you would.

Julie, I'm doing my best at the Faire!

Hilary, I do really want to see that one. Heard it is really well done, something that doesn't happen often with horror films.

kjmckendry said...

Congrats on 5 years!! I'm heading over to the Realms Faire now.

Vanessa Morgan said...

I'm hearing a lot of good things about Interstellar. It's now on my list of movies to watch.

Unknown said...

I need to check out Gears of brass. I love a good steampunk book. I'll have to make sure to go cheer for the Ninja Knight as well :D Matt @ JC's Book Haven.

Maurice Mitchell said...

Congrats on the five years Alex! I'll still see Interstellar even though the reviews are mixed.

Workingdan said...

I love a good, long, epic movie. If it is good enough then I don't care how many minutes it is. Sometimes after a 3 hour movie I'm disappointed that it's over because I enjoyed it so much I just wanted the story to keep going. Braveheart is the perfect example, it is also my all time favorite.

It hope Interstellar can have that same effect.

Michelle Wallace said...

Congrats on 5 years of blogging, Alex!
The Realms Faire has been loads of fun so far! There are LOTS of prizes up for grabs.
PK's Story Scientist Service is really cool...

Tara Tyler said...

whoopie!
i voted for the ninja knight! and i love your cover and title! way to go!

so interstellar? prob won't see it. i didn't like gravity and it sounds a lot like that...

thanks for all the news! and congrats to the newsmakers!

Morgan said...

Mini Alex!!! Hahaha!!! You know I freak out whenever I get to see him!!! Love that little guy…

And soooo wonderful for November 9th, can't imagine you not existing, Alex. <3

Peaches Ledwidge said...

Haven't been here in a long time, but I like the new header and all that's happening.

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Five years. It seems short, until one thinks of all you've accomplished. I'm getting to the age where I need feel good movies. Unless they're British mysteries. Congrats to all the new covers. Looking great.

Toi Thomas said...

Congratulations on five years. You rock!
Nice review of Interstellar. I think I'm too chicken to see it in the theaters. I may have to wait.
There's a lot going this week and there are some cool new releases.

Rusty Carl said...

Dude! I know I've dropped off the map recently. But that cover is INCREDIBLE! Holy Wow! Great job to your publisher/artist on that. My favorite one so far!

And Interstellar was pretty terrific. When I was asked if someone else should see it, I just had to say that, 'for me, it was perfect. But that's not a recommendation for you to see it.'

And I think a lot of the science was pretty good. Not so sure about love in the fifth dimension stuff, but the relativity and wormhole segments were pretty dead on, from what I read, anyway. I mean, it's not like I'm trying to solve the equations for gravity myself here.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Matt, thanks!

Maurice, you know what to expect now.

Workingdan, it could have been shaved, but I didn't find myself longing for the end.

Tara, better than Gravity. More personable.

Morgan, I'm glad I exist!

Thanks, Peaches.

Rusty - Dude!! Glad you like the cover. I think it fits the story well. Agree Interstellar isn't for everyone, but I really liked it.

Sheena-kay Graham said...

Couldn't comment yesterday. Hope your knight kicked butt. Wow Interstellar is long. Might see it if I can. I plan to see Nightcrawler next week. Christmas is coming. To another 5 years indeed Alex. Three for me. Thinking of submitting to Of mist and magic. Really liked the music.

Donna McDine said...

I've been blogging for 7 years. Have started my Christmas shopping and I'm determined to finish before Thanksgiving! Hmmm, 1976...my eldest brother graduated high school. Congratulations on your five years of blogging!

Cherie Colyer said...

I've seen some of the Realms Faire posts. They're a lot of fun. I don't start my Christmas shopping until after Thanksgiving. I've been blogging 3 years. Wow, I didn't realize that until just now. Thanks for the updates on new books and the movie review. =)

Denise Covey said...

Hi Alex. I've heard reviews of Interstellar. One reviewer said Matthew Mccoughey's accent spoiled it for him as he couldn't understand most of what he was mumbling. But apparently the visuals are awesome.

Congrats on 5 years of blogging! You have certainly mastered the art.

As you know I changed my URL. I've had only 1 comment on my latest post, so my feed is not showing. I don't see mine on your blogroll, so would you mind taking the time to change it so you will get updates?

New URL:

http://dencovey.blogspot.com

Thanks!
Denise

Jennifer Lane said...

I heard Interstellar got some awful reviews but I'm glad you enjoyed it. I added Dragon to Goodreads! You have surely made some good friends in 5 years of blogging. :-)

Leslie S. Rose said...

Happy 5th to someone who makes it a blast to stay in the blogging world. I'm soooooo glad to hear a thumbs up for Interstellar. I was really looking forward to it and then I heard grumbles. Movie theatre here I come.

dolorah said...

Love your cover. Interstellar and Gears of Brass both look appealing.

hehe, I remember your first post :)

Elizabeth Mueller said...

Hiya Alex! Always good to see you here. ;) The movie sure sounds interesting, will have to go with hubby on date night to watch.

Have a great week and thank you for your comments on my blog!

♥.•*¨Elizabeth¨*•.♥

Gossip_Grl said...

Congrats on the five year blogoversary!!! Ugh on the forty four day reminder. :/ Around here they didn't have trick or treat till Nov 1 because the 31st was high school football night and all of them had home games that night. I swear I went in to the dollar store on Nov 1st and they were playing Christmas music. Too early for me!!!

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

Congrats to Ted. I loved Big Hero 6. I can't wait to read Ted's book.

Fundy Blue said...

Hi Alex! I missed your post Monday because I was disconnected from the internet ~ long weekend in Vegas. But Monday I saw "Interstellar" at the Palms with my husband and two of his good friends. I loved it! The holes and science issues don't matter to me nearly as much as the thought-provoking story. I'll be thinking about it for a long, long time. Trying to think about relativity warps my inadequate mind! Have a good one!

Pat Tillett said...

Five years is a long time. Congrats!
Interstellar looks like something I have to see. Nice to see the cover for your next book. It will be posted on my website today.

Mason Canyon said...

Wishing you a belated Happy Fifth Blog Anniversary, Alex. Your blog is a joy to read. Wishing you many, many more years of entertaining posts.

Chemist Ken said...

Five years is an eternity in the writing world. Congratulations.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Congrats on your fifth Blogoversary, Alex. I will be completing 5 years next year in March.

Anonymous said...

Alex, CONGRATS on your blogging anniversary! I'm usually almost done with Christmas shopping by this time each year. Haven't even started this year. YIKES!