Monday, October 26, 2015

Listing Hop: Top Ten Things You Won’t Hear at The Force Awakens! Plus Snow on Cinders and Global Disasters, Crimson Peak Review, Battle of the Banned – Halloween Style, and Ninja News

Today I welcome the wonderful Catherine Constantine! Her latest book is Snow on Cinders and she’s here to talk about preparing for global disaster.

I can’t thank Alex enough for hosting me today. If it wasn’t for him and the IWSG, I don’t know if I’d still be blogging. He’s quite an inspiration to us all.

My new release Snow on Cinders is the sequel to Tallas, but can be read as a stand alone. A family fleeing a tyrannical Management to save their son from a dangerous assignment sets the stage in these post-apocalyptic novels. After years of chemical warfare a metamorphous has taken shape on the planet, not only with vegetation, but animals and humans as well. Talk about diversity in books, you’ll become acquainted with mutants that only want to live in peace. A loving family and a band of misfits struggle to survive in the wilderness.

Think about a civilization without computers, cell phones, or landlines to communicate. I grew up without a cell phone or a computer. How’d we survive?

Lack of clean drinking water and medical supplies are dwindling in Snow on Cinders. Do you prepare for an emergency? Here in Buffalo, I always prepare to have on hand at least, if not more, three days of supplies due to the harsh winters.

I think about the strangest things. Like ~ toilet paper. Stock up on TP!

What would you want to hoard in case of a global disaster?

Find Catherina - Blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Amazon
Find Snow on Cinders at Amazon

Movie Review – Crimson Peak

Don’t be fooled by the ads – this is not a straight up horror film. It’s a gothic romance with ghosts, wrapped in a psychological mystery.
As an ode to the early 1970’s Hammer films, director del Toro has crafted a movie that unspools at a leisurely pace. It works, especially since the acting is so good and the production so amazing.
Mia Wasikowska (Alice in Wonderland) is Edith, the new bride troubled by what is happening in her new home. Tom Hiddleston is her husband, and he plays, well, he plays Tom Hiddleston. The dominating character is his sister, played perfectly by Jessica Chastain (The Martian, Interstellar.)
However, it is the house that steals almost every scene. It’s a character in its own right, decaying, dark, and alive.
There is some gore – the ghosts are ‘bloody’ and the head smashing scene is rather intense.
This movie is closer to The Devil’s Backbone and Pan’s Labyrinth (less the devastating depression) than Hellboy or Pacific Rim.
While not his best work, it’s a great tribute to gothic romance movies. Recommended!


Ninja News

John Wiswell had a great week with a short story publication, another story being read on a podcast, and he’s contributing to SF Signal. Way to go, John!

Last week to enter the IWSG Anthology Contest! You have until Saturday, November 1. The theme is Alternate History/Parallel Universe and any member of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group (blogging or Facebook) is encouraged to enter. Winners will be published in a royalty-paying anthology next year.


Make Me Wonder and the Minions team have paired up for a nationwide robotics competition for kids. The grand prize is a STEM field trip to California, where they'll be able to meet the artists who work on the Minions, present to engineers at Google, and learn about how games are made at EA. Deadline to enter is November 1.

New Releases!

Poltergeist’s Pleasure by Christine Rains
Find it on Amazon, Kobo, and Goodreads

Boppity Blue and the Kangaroo That Stole His Shoe by Pat Hatt
Find it on Amazon and Goodreads

Under the Tuscan Moon by Denise Covey
Find it on Amazon US, Amazon UK, and Amazon AU

A Matter of Taste, From the Sweet to the Spicy, Romance for Every Palate
Featuring Queen of Diamonds by Sandra Cox
Find it on Amazon

Forever Lucky: Book Four by RaShelle Workman
This is the final instalment in her Lucky Clover Mystery Romance series.
Find it on Amazon

Veritas: Shadow of the Rose: Book Two by M. L. Chesley 
Find it at Amazon, iTunes, and Scribed







Battle of the Banned


Hosted by Shady Del Knight.

I’m also participating in X-Mas Dolly’s Monday’s Music Moves Me with this entry.

We’re running with a Halloween theme one final time.


First up – Dokken’s Dream Warriors from A Nightmare on Elm Street III:

Next, we have Lou Gramm’s Lost in the Shadows from The Lost Boys:

Halloween is creeping closer! Which song captures scares and thrills? You know the routine! Vote for your favorite.

The Listing Hop!

The brainchild of Bish Denham to celebrate eight years of blogging. I am helping co-host this blogfest – and it’s beyond simple!

The rules are:
Sign up, grab the banner and make a list.
Keep your list to between 5 and 25 items. You can list whatever you feel like (except for adult type content.)
Post on October 26 and visit fellow participants.

In celebration of the upcoming Star Wars film, I chose to do a list based on The Force Awakens.



Top Ten Things You Won’t Hear at The Force Awakens:

I wish Lucas had more involvement with this.

The villain was good, but not as terrifying as the trade federation from episode 1.

I was hoping for a two hour in depth explanation of midi-chlorians.

This film could use a healthy dose of Jar-Jar.

These character names are weird. Why couldn't they just use normal names like Dooku, Salacious Crumb, and Porkins?

Isn't this the same plot as the "Star Wars Holiday Special?”

How many Ewoks would I need to reupholster my couch? (Actually, somebody might say that).

I hope no one minds my Eau de freshly opened Tauntaun musk after shave.

I prefer my spaceship explosions to look like a Skittles factory just blew up.

So, which character is the love child of Han Solo and Chewbacca?

Visit other participants below:




What would you think of first in a global disaster? Have you seen Crimson Peak? Sent in your IWSG Anthology entry? Are your kids entered in the robotics competition? See some new books? Which song would you pick? And what is your list????


174 comments:

Misha Gerrick said...

Now you have me intrigued about Crimson Peak. ^_^

I wanted to give a really good answer on what I'd stock up for in-case but... actually I wouldn't. The stuff that can be bought and stocked will be too bulky to move, so in case of emergency, it'd just all get left behind because we couldn't carry it.

Misha Gerrick said...

OMG I'm #1!

Misha Gerrick said...

Also, congrats to everyone with books being released! Okay. Now I'm leaving.

mail4rosey said...

I really loved Lou Gramm's, 'Midnight Blue' so I feel bad voting against him, but I'm going with Dokken for this one. The other seems too dated.

Congrats to your feature author. I'm not sure what I'd stock up on... tp is a good one, but it might get wet. I'd go with emergency powdered food packets I guess (and toothpaste and deodorant ;) ).

Pat's got a new book, featuring Blue none the less, and I missed it. I never miss a Pat Hatt release. I've got way too much going on over here, it's getting in the way of my blogging!! :)

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

I do think about emergency supplies and tp is one of the things on my list! Water is probably at the top. And I need to replenish my supply...good reminder.

I think Crimson Peak is one that my husband and I might both enjoy.

I like your Star Wars list!

Cathrina Constantine said...

Alex, I'm honored to be on your blog today!!!! Thank you for having me!!!

Good Star Wars List!

Rhonda Albom said...

Congratulations to Catherine and the other authors. I haven't seen Crimson Peak. We are not currently in robotics, but a few years ago my daughter was on a robotics team that took fourth in world competition. Dare I admit, I don't understand your list :)

Bish Denham said...

Catherine, in the Caribbean we are always somewhat prepared for hurricanes and the regular power outages that happen. Water is not a problem because we have a 40 thousand gal. cistern which is just about always full. What we stock up on are canned goods and TP. We cook with gas, so there's no problem there either. Your novel sounds very interesting.

Wow, lots of new books out! Congratulations to one and all.

Dokken gets my vote. Oh the HAIR! Prettier than the girl's!

Thanks so much, Alex, for co-hosting my bloghop. (Hey everyone he did it all on his own, he volunteered, I didn't even ask!) Your Star War's list is a hoot! AND you are truly THE NINJA!

Just Keepin It Real, Folks! said...

Congrats to all the authors. Quite an accomplishment! I too would have to stock up on toilet paper and something that would provide protein and chocolate like peanut M&M's.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Stocking medicine would be a good idea.

Congrats to the authors with new releases!

I wonder if anyone will be asking for more Jawas in The Force Awakens. ;)

Jackie said...

What a great list for the Listing Hop, Alex!!! And this...This film could use a healthy dose of Jar-Jar ... made me literally LOL.

mshatch said...

Great list. As for stocking up: TP, soap, ramen, water, and aspirin come to mind.

Shady Del Knight said...

Hi, Banned Buddy! I can't believe how similar our tastes turned out to be. Are you sure we aren't the same person... like Bob Cummings and Rob Zombie? :) I have seen both of these movies and loved them. Dokken was considered a heavy metal band back in the day, but by today's standards (see Cerebral Bore) Don Dokken is strictly easy listening pop. Nevertheless, I love Patricia Arquette, love Freddy Krueger and the Nightmare on Elm Street movies, and I hereby cast my vote for "Dream Warriors, the best theme song from the best flick of the series.

I'll be posting my vote results next Monday, good buddy. Have a great week!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Misha, you were number one!

Rosey, can't have it getting in the way of blogging. And thanks for voting.

Elizabeth, thanks! Water and toilet paper would top my list.

Cathrina, you're welcome!

Rhonda, my list was meant to be funny.

Bish, thanks for letting me co-host! Glad my list amused you. And thanks for voting.

Sandra, good question!

Natalie Aguirre said...

Congrats to Catherine and everyone else on their book releases. That movie sounds good but a bit too creepy for me.

Jo said...

Boppity Blue and the Kangaroo that Stole His Shoe? I couldn't believe this when I saw it on Goodreads. You actually read it? Sounds like something I would read, but not you.

Finally saw the Avengers, Age of Ultron this weekend. Enjoyed it.

I always have lots of toilet paper. But clean water might be a problem. I could definitely last more than 3 days if there was a catastrophe.

J.L. Campbell said...

Congrats to Bish and everybody who has a new book out. Special congratulations to Denise on the release of her book!

Love the potential names you came up with in your list.

ediFanoB said...

I must say I'm not interested in Crimson Peak and so far the reviews I read haven't been that enthusiastic.

What would you want to hoard in case of a global disaster?
Several glasses because without glasses I would be lost.


M.J. Fifield said...

Love your list. It made me laugh out loud more than one, and I'm not even a Star Wars fan. :)

I've been curious about Crimson Peak. Now that I know it's not straight-up horror, it might be something I could watch.

Cathrina's cover is so beautiful! Congrats to her, and to all who have new books out!

Kelly Polark said...

I'm so excited about the Force Awakens!!! Your list is silly! :)

And gotta love Dream Warriors!

kaykuala said...

Survival uppermost. Would stock water..water..water plus vitamin pills. Yes, that's right! Congrats to all the writers with their new books.

Hank

Karen Lange said...

Disaster stock up - my first thought is water. Then food, and then tp. :) Thanks for the intro to Catherine, Alex. Thanks also for all the info and links. Happy Monday!

A Beer for the Shower said...

Gothic romance? I don't know if I can bite the bullet on that one.

I love the top ten list. And I'm glad to hear I'm not the only one that would sit on a couch made entirely of Ewoks. They look pretty comfortable, minus the spears.

Tonja Drecker said...

Oh, that reminds me - I have to pick up our generator soon. Congrats, Catherine! My kids are looking forward to the new Star Wars, but after the last two my hubs and I are feeling a little more careful about what to expect. The robotics competition sounds neat!

H. R. Sinclair said...

Beautiful list! And I'm glad Crimson Peak is recommended. I was interested in seeing that.

Congrats Catherine! Yes, TP is a great thing to stock up on. :p

Pat Hatt said...

TP I stay stocked up on, always have a spare 100 rolls just in case lol make sure I have enough cat food for 4 months too.

#2 gets my vote and thanks for the shout.

Jar Jar may get some love from the kiddies? No? Not even them? lol

Ray Rousell said...

I quite fancy Crimson Peak myself, not sure the Mrs would though, she'd have a heart attack! Its gotta be the shoulder padded and frizzy hair of Lou Gram that wins the prize!!

Juneta key said...

ROFL, Love it!!!! Very Clever and too true for most. But have to say, this SW fan misses Lucas's involvement. My favorite SW villain is from the expanded universe Thrawn. I loved Jar Jar Binks and was disappointed they played him down in episodes 2 & 3, but I'm contrary that way,when it comes to SW, lol. I have a SW post planned for my blog this next week--I am posting the newest SW trailer too.

May The Force Be With You!
Juneta Writer's Gambit

Libby said...

I wish Lucas had more involvement with this. - Too true.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jackie, I am here to amuse!

Shady! We must be channeling. Dokken is so tame now, especially compared to the bands I listen to these days. Thanks for hosting and voting - see you next Monday!

Jo, haven't read it yet, but Pat's stuff is always funny.

MJ, go see it! And glad I made you laugh.

Kelly, thanks for voting.

Brandon and Bryan, good point. Must remove the spears.

T, I am just as cautious.

Holly, go see it.

Pat, you're welcome, and thanks for voting.

Ray, sounds like solo night at the movies. Thanks for voting.

Juneta, despite all the hate, I never minded Jar Jar.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Re disaster supplies - I agree about the toilet paper. :)

Crimson Peak sounds intriguing! Re-watched the original Poltergeist and Misery - scary stuff!

Christine Rains said...

Thanks so much for the shout-out! And congrats to all the authors with new releases. I'd hoard TP, too, Cathrina! :) I'll wait for Crimson Peak to come onto DVD so I can be alone in my house with Tom! Oh man, that's a difficult decision for the songs. Two movies I loved as a teen and two songs too. I did listen to the Lost Boys soundtrack thousands of times, so I'll go with the second one.

Shell Flower said...

Ooh, a lot of great books released recently. You list cracked me up, especially "This film could use a healthy dose of Jar-Jar." OMG! So funny. And if anyone upholsters their couch with Ewoks, I really hope Intergalactic PETA comes after them!

Arlee Bird said...

Snow on Cinders sounds like a good read.

I vote for Dokken's "Dream Warriors" since I like the Nightmare movies and Gramm's song sounds like heavy metal at the Disco. Very 80's sound.

Since I had a guest post scheduled for today weeks before I had heard about the Listing Hop I linked to an old list so as not to step on Stephen Tremp's post at my site.

Arlee Bird
A to Z Challenge Co-host
Tossing It Out

Nilanjana Bose said...

Drinking water, loads of chocolate, batteries/torches and maybe some books, you'll need to read while you wait for the emergency services, right? :)

Nice to see Denise up there...congrats to all authors!

L. Diane Wolfe said...

I'd need a stash of Q-Tips and lip balm.

I like both songs, but I'm voting for Dokken.

How many Ewoks? I'd say at least 20. LOL

Holy Ghost Writer said...

I wouldn't mind skinning some Ewoks.

I liked the first one the best of the two banned.

Mason Canyon said...

Catherina, nice to meet you. Your book sounds intriguing. This time of year having extra supplies on hand is a very good thing.

Congrats to everyone with new releases. More to add to my TBR list.

Alex, enjoyed your list too. Good to know about Crimson Peak.

Luanne G. Smith said...

Wow, that's a lot of new books. Congrats to all the authors on their releases. :)

Patricia Stoltey said...

Thanks for introducing us to Catherine and Snow on Cinders. Beautiful cover art!! And for all the other new releases and news and etc etc. You're a wonder, Alex.

As for the answer to Catherine's question about what would we hoard if we thought a disaster was looming...for sure, toilet paper...but also books and coffee...

Melissa said...

Oh my gosh, I love that cover! Congrats, Cathrina.

LOL Love the list, Alex. :)

SpacerGuy said...

Congratulations Bish Denham - eight years blogging, WOW, I've signed up. For a global disaster, I've stocked up on seeds. My bird and I can both survive on that for years. Crimson Peak sound good, I'm intrigued! Star Wars? Naa - Star Trek!!! LOL

Chrys Fey said...

Congrats, Cathrina! The premise for your book sounds amazing. "mutants that only want to live in peace" Nice! I would horde clean water.

Funny list, Alex!

Mark Means said...

Congrats, Catherine...that cover looks amazing. The premise of the book sounds very interesting, as well.

I had, kind of, written off "Crimson Peak", but hearing it's an ode to the hold Hammer films has me intrigued. Thanks for the review, Alex.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

Great variety of genres in the new releases. Congratulations to all. Pat Hatt doesn't stop hopping.

Lou Gramms gets my vote - definitely more chilling.
Happy Halloween week, Alex.
Hope you score lots of Hot Tamales.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Madeline, don't watch the Poltergeist remake though.

Shell, that made me chuckle!

Lee, heavy metal at the disco - funny!

Diane, thanks for voting.

Melissa, I am here to amuse...

Spacerguy, I agree!

Mark, go see it!

Robyn, thanks for voting, and I'll take a case of Hot Tamales.

Jen, you'll enjoy it. Just close your eyes during the gore.

The Happy Whisk said...

Happy Monday, Alex. Got your comment, hope you enjoyed your games and car washing. Tim just listens to the one game, each week.

Have a great Halloween Week and boogie boogie.

Julie Flanders said...

LOL great list and I cracked up about the holiday special LOL. I'm anxious to read Cinders - Tallas was an excellent read. Congrats to Cathrina!

Joanne said...

congrats to Catherine on her new book - toilet paper, pen and paper, alcohol, bandaids, peanut butter, and some chocolate bars. I could make it a day!. Glad we agreed on Crimson Peak - I think it will surprise folks who don't like scary movies. Dokken, for sure. And I chuckled at your list. Today's a busy Monday.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Clean drinking water would be a first priority, then fire for cooking and warmth and then shelter that would be safe from hostiles. Oh yeah, we talk about that stuff at our house.
Crimson Peak looks good and well, Tom is in it.

Hart Johnson said...

Glad to hear a recommendation for Crimson Peak--I love a good Haunted House story. And your list made me giggle. My level of Star Wars fan-ness is I will watch it, but not in the theater, but it sounds like though, they made some good decisions.

Dean K Miller said...

What would I think of first in a global disaster? "Well, this sucks!"
Thriller came out in my "formative" years, so I'm partial to that.

Fundy Blue said...

Fun post, Alex and Catherine! I've lived without cell phones, computers, or landlines, not to mention electricity and running water and nothing to travel by but my feet!!! And very few medical supplies. Fortunately, only for s short time in my childhood.

Love the title "Snow on Cinders." Congratulations on your book, Catherine. Global disaster: Chocolate immediately came to mind, followed instantaneously by coffee! I too have an emergency supply kit that includes an old fashioned can opener in case there is not electricity.

"Crimson Peak" is probably too intense for me. Ever since "Night of the Living Dead", I have not been able to watch horror movies. A friend of mine was killed in a car accident while I was at the movie. Just before I went to the movie, we were ironing clothes for our dates together. She never returned. I had horrendous nightmares that night and for weeks afterwards, so no go for me with "CP."

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

All the book covers are truly spectacular. Is it me, or are cover artists getting better?

Jeffrey Scott said...

"Boppity Blue and the Kangaroo that Stole His Shoe" - I'm looking forward to the sequel "Rebecca Prig and the Pig Who Stole Her Wig"
(Not making fun of the book. Just love the title). :)

Battle of the Banned - I thought I'd be picking the one from Lost Boys, I do have that album. But I preferred the Dream Warriors so much more. Great song. I still find it hard to believe Freddie Krueger is Willie from V.

Lists - I had fun with my list, but I had more fun reading your list. The one that serioulsy made me laugh out loud? "The villain was good, but not as terrifying as the Trade Federation Episode 1.

Cherdo said...

Mini-list:

1. I gotta see Crimson Peak. That's right up my alley.
2. Your "list" is fantastic!
3. Battle of the Banned: LOU GRAMM all the way!

Thanks, Alex!!

Yvonne Ventresca said...

Stopping by from the listing blog hop. Catherine's book sounds interesting -- my own list post is about survival books. :)

Yvonne

randi lee said...

Catherine is an AMAZING author and I'm so happy you featured her on your blog today, Alex!!

Anonymous said...

I would love to think of a world without cell phones, but never without toilet paper ;)

Shah Wharton said...

Loved you Star Wars list - *chuckle!

I have Cathrina's lovely book on my blog today too :)

And you have me wanting to see Crimson Peak (but I won't mention the romance bit to my hubs). We're actually going to see the new Bond tomorrow, which I doubt you're into. It's a big deal in England. :)


http://shahwharton.com

Tamara Narayan said...

I listed TV shows. I guess I'd have to kiss those goodbye in a global disaster. Seriously though? I be worried about my youngest. She is on a lot of special medicines for her arthritis. The apocalypse better hold off until she grows out of it. (Fingers crossed).

L.G. Keltner said...

Your list is the best! I shudder any time someone mentions the star Wars Holiday Special. Hmm. I wonder if my husband would like some Eau de freshly opened Tauntaun for Christmas. Eh, maybe not. I still have to live with him.

Sarah Foster said...

LOL your list was fantastic :)

Stacy Uncorked said...

Great list! And great song choices! ;)

Come Little Children Turn The Lights Off because This Is Halloween you’ll be Creepin’ so Better Dig Two!

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

"Snow on Cinders" is a gorgeous looking book. I wonder if Cherie had something to do with the design. She has a certain flair when it comes to that kind of thing.

Charles Gramlich said...

Snow on Cinders is a wonderfully evocative title.

Anonymous said...

Funny list! Congrats to Cathrina and everyone with new releases! I definitely agree about the T.P. and the other obvious necessities. I'd also try to sneak in something to write on. Got to have something to keep from losing it in such dire circumstances. My vote would be for Dokken. I like Lou Gramm's music, but the Lost Boys song isn't very creepy. Looking forward to Star Wars!

Laura Clipson said...

I really want to see Crimson Peak, it looks good. I saw the trailer for Star Wars the other day, I can't wait until it comes out!

XmasDolly said...

Thank you so much for playing along with us on this Halloween edition of Monday's Music Moves Me. Love your selection although most are new to me. I love Star Wars and have every DVD (except the new one of course), but I'm not that big of a die-hard fan where I know all the names. I should watch the movies over again. That's always fun. I think my favorite one is Part II. I'm really enjoying your second tune here. I vote for that one! HAPPY HALLOWEEN MY FRIEND! HUGS and please be careful. Hubby has a gig on Halloween night & I'm dressing up as a witch... hehehe! They're playing on a flatbed outside so please pray for warmer weather please... sure could use the extra money! Woo Hoo... His band's name is "We Ain't Right"!

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Thanks for the review of Crimson Peak! My husband and I were considering going to see it during our "romantic getaway in the mountains" later this week. Since we'd both prefer a gothic mystery with some depth to a slasher film, this sounds like a Halloween-y win!

Suzanne Furness said...

Congrats to Cathrina. I'd want to stock up on water, chocolate, loo roll, chocolate, oh and maybe some more chocolate!

Unknown said...

Snow on Cinders is an awesome title! And if there were a global disaster I would NEED food and my computer!

Sandra Cox said...

Thanks,Alex, for taking the time to include Taste. Much appreciated!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Julie, glad it made you laugh.

Joanne, thanks for voting.

Susan, and for the ladies, you get to see hit butt.

Dean, funny!

Fundy, I'm sorry! That's awful.

Joylene, the talented ones are getting all the gigs now.

Cherdo, thanks for voting.

Shah, I dig Bond! Will definitely see it.

LG, and you'd have to smell it...

Marie, outside? Wow. Yes, will pray for good weather.

Dianne, it fits the bill perfectly.

Andrew Leon said...

I enjoyed watching Crimson Peak but much of it is stupid after the fact when you stop to think about it. Like: Why is the house built ON TOP of the mine?

Birgit said...

OMG-I love your Star wars list and believe that the Christmas special is right up there with Jar Jar. I didn't know where to join up but I think I will link my top 10 list i did a couple of weeks back if that is ok. I have to listen to the Battle of the Banned when i am home. I want to see this film Crimson Peak-It sounds like a film I won't get scared by...maybe. Will choose my band later:)

Yolanda Renée said...

Lou Gramm’s Lost in the Shadows from The Lost Boys gets my vote. Loved the drums!

Not sure I'll see Crimson Peak until it's out on video. Don't want to sleep with the lights on though! LOL

Great list, funny!

Colette S said...

Loads of information here.
Thanks for sharing and rocking out!

Have a fabulous week!

Roland D. Yeomans said...

I entered the Anthology Contest although the odds are staggering and against me -- but bucking the odds is how legends are born, right?

I joined the listing hop as well. Halloween themed of course! :-)

I really want to see CRIMSON PEAKS.

Lisa said...

OH I'm laughing now at the visual on a love child between Chewbacca and Solo!!! And my humble opinion, no film needs any kind of dose of Jar-Jar...!

Murees Dupè said...

Congratulations to all the authors with new releases. In case of disaster, I would stock up on bottled water for sure. Have a great week, Alex.

Anonymous said...

Haha! Great list, Alex.

I would like to see Crimson Peak (Hello, T. Hiddles) but I'm such a wuss that I know I won't and anything I see will be gifs people post on Tumblr.

Carrie-Anne said...

I love your list! If there were a Star Wars movie that merited those comments, I'm sure it'd be mercilessly and hilariously taken on by RiffTrax or MST3K.

I always remembered how my 8th grade tech ed teacher told us the water in the toilet tank is safe to drink, in case of drought or other disaster. He left out the fact that you probably should boil it first, though one could always use a campfire or wood-burning stove in the absence of modern stoves.

Elephant's Child said...

Huge congratulations to all those with books out. Some I have, some I will weaken and acquire.
My lists are usually to-do lists. I have learned to put something on it which I KNOW I will achieve (of the shower, feed cats order of difficulty) so I can feel I am achieving something. Is it shameful to cheat myself? Perhaps, but it works.

Michele at Angels Bark said...

Hey Alex. Thanks for the review of Crimson Peak (love that title!). I wasn't sure I wanted to see it but now I do thanks to your review.
For your Battle of the Banned, give my vote to Dokken. Dream Warriors is a good song! Lou Gramm's song just didn't grab me like Dream Warriors did...

Michele at Angels Bark

J E Oneil said...

Crimson Peak looks amazing! I hope I have time to go see it. And the new Star Wars movie looks so good. I was mostly underwhelmed by the prequels, but this new trilogy really seems awesome. I can't wait for it.

Cynthia said...

Happy Listingfest Day! Sounds like you could be a script writer for a future Star Wars Movie!

Btw, I submitted a note to Writers Digest and nominated the IWSG page as a best web site. I hope the IWSG page gets the recognition it deserves!

Jemi Fraser said...

I live in Northern Ontario - we always have at least 3 days of stuff as well - and lots and lots of TP! :)

Love your list, Alex - can't wit for the film! :)

Blue Grumpster said...

I couldn't take my eyes off of Mia Wasikowska, Alex.

Liz A. said...

In case of disaster, I would most want to have drinking water.

Robotics competition: an all expense paid trip to California? Umm... (Northern or southern?)

Cherie Reich said...

Congrats, Cathrina! TP is a must to stock up on. Of course, food and water are key staples. I think I'll have to find someone to keep so that person can be my official can opener. I'm terrible trying to open cans. I'd starve to death. Heh.

dolorah said...

Totally need that toilette paper!! This book sounds interesting. I want to see Crimson Peak. Had to choose between that and The Last Witch Hunter. I picked Witch Hunter; hope I don't regret the decision.

Thanks for making me laugh with your list :) Have a good week Alex.

Cindy said...

I also laughed at your list. Congrats to all the authors with new releases.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sandra, you're welcome!

Andrew, the house was there first, then the mine was created.

Birgit, glad you liked my list.

Yolanda, thanks for voting.

Roland, it's your style of film.

Lisa, I am here to amuse!

Carrie-Anne, RiffTrax needs to do the last few movies.

Elephant, no it's not.

Michele, thanks for voting!

Cynthia, thank you!

Blue, too young for me unfortunately.

Liz, no idea! Check their site.

Donna, review scared me away from Witch Hunter. Let me know...

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...

Great week! I found Catherine fascinating. I think I would hoard medications and ... soup. You have to have soup around when the world is changing, because soup never changes much. Oh, and a can opener.
John Wiswell is a great guy. I am happy to hear his good news!
I vote for the song from The Lost Boys.
jean

stephen Hayes said...

Love that Star Wars top ten list. Thanks for the laughs.

Michael Abayomi said...

I'd definitely love to see Crimson Peak, based on the strength of The Devil's Backbone and Pan's Labyrinth alone. Unfortunately, all the cinemas in my city seem to have this ongoing boycott against horror films. :(

I'd almost totally forgotten about the The List Hop blogfest being today, which is why I am just putting up my post. Coincidentally, mine also happens to tie in with Star Wars: The Force Awakens. :D

Belle Unruh said...

Loved you list on Star Wars. My favorites are the first and the last. I think Lukas is a great story teller. He has brilliant ideas, but he is no good at dialog in movies. My daughter and I went to a theater awile ago to see the one with Jar-Jar Binks. I have to say, he makes me laugh and I remember my grandchildren loved him. Lukas says he makes these movies for children, and he is very good at that.

Snow Cinders looks like a great book. We did buy a little butane stove so we can cook our food on the balcony if we ever lose power. It would be good to stock up on water but we haven't done that. Whenever a big storm is coming I fill the bathtub. We have lots of candles. That's about it. Not very good planning.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Look at all the new books. So exciting. Congratulations to everyone.

I'd hoard water for sure and probably food, cat food. :) Chocolates for me. They're small and easy to carry.

Stephanie Faris said...

Nashville doesn't get a huge amount of snow, but they don't salt the streets...so if it snows here, you aren't going anywhere for a few days or more. I plan to fill our extra freezer with a few extra days' worth of dinners just in case

Birgit said...

OK I vote for Gramm's Lost in the Shadows-It is so 80's and that's what I love about it:)

alexia said...

I'm from Florida - if the world becomes snow laden, I'm the first to go :) Super excited about Crimson Peak. Glad it's not as depressing as Pan's Labyrinth! Can't wait to see it!

D.G. Hudson said...

Nice to see so many new books out by bloggers I recognize. . .like Denise Covey. Wish I could have joined this hop, but too much to do right now at home. Interesting list you created. Roland's was interesting too. Just dropping by when I can. (but really - love child of Hans Solo and Chewbacca - never. . .)

Botanist said...

How many Ewoks would I need to reupholster my couch? - I am soooo glad I didn't have a mouthful of coffee when I read that :)

Shannon Lawrence said...

In a global disaster I'd be hoarding water, batteries, and toilet paper.

Sorry I didn't give you credit for co-hosting the Listing hop! I was going off the original post. I need to edit my post and add you as co-host.

Congrats to everyone on their releases. So many!

Denise Covey said...

Hey Alex, firstly thanks for adding me to the recent releases. So many. I'll come back and check them out thoroughly. Isn't Bish's hop a blast? So enjoying it.

~Sia McKye~ said...

Oh, I'd do well in a catastrophe--if I didn't have to leave my house. I have enough water, food, candles and lamps with fuel to last several years and yes, TP is always in abundance. Not a hoarder, perse, just believe in being prepared. Now, if I had to leave and live in the woods or something, I have supplies, tools, and the knowledge to use them. I can live off the land. Not comfortable as home but I can and have done it. I love the cover Catherine!

A lot of good books coming out these days, Alex. Congrats to the authors. Crimson Peak sounds interesting. And the house is always a character in a gothic, :-)

Sia McKye Over Coffee

Elizabeth said...

Normally I would not consider watching something like Crimson Peak, but for more Tom Hiddleston I might :)I love your Star Wars list, lol!

Meradeth Houston said...

Hmm, I'd estimate needing 4.5 ewoks to reupholster my couch :) Funny list! And I am glad to hear Crimson Peak was good!

Unknown said...

Thanks for visiting me today, Alex :)

Stephen T. McCarthy said...

ALEX, the Listing Bloghop has been fun. I'd do it again next year, too, if there's a repeat appearance.

>>... These character names are weird. Why couldn't they just use normal names like Dooku, Salacious Crumb, and Porkins?

Ha!-Ha!

Here are some of my favorite character names:

Augustus Winterbottom

T. Frothingill Bellows

Cuthbert J. Twillie

Egbert Sousé

Larson E. Whipsnade

Ambrose Wolfinger

Elmer Prettywillie

Professor Eustace McGargle

Rollo La Rue

Effingham Bellweather

All of them from W.C. FIELDS movies.

~ D-FensDogG
'Loyal American Underground'

Helena said...

Snow on Cinders has a truly gorgeous cover! And like you, Cathrina, I too stock up on toilet paper before storms. And milk.

From what I've heard, Jar-Jar does NOT turn up in this Star Wars movie, for which I will be eternally grateful.

Anonymous said...

I prefer the first video. Snow on Cinders looks like a great read and I'd love to see Crimson Peak.

Patsy said...

I grew up on a farm where we produced a lot of our own food - I think I'd be OK without technology - but I hope I never have to find out.

Jeremy [Retro] said...

Been away, out of town... looks like I missed a bunch and cool things to boot.

Jeremy

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jean, and sometimes you can have two soups. Thanks for voting.

Michael, can't wait to read it!

Belle, Lucas is horrible with dialogue.

Birgit, thanks for voting!

Alexia, nothing is as a depressing as Pan's Labyrinth.

DG, it would be weird, wouldn't it?

Shannon, no worries! It's Bish's game anyway.

Denise, you're welcome.

Meradeth, that made me chuckle.

Stephen, who knew Fields had such a thing for funny character names?

Medeia, thanks for voting.

Al Penwasser said...

Another thing you won't hear at The Force Awakens:
"So...Kirk or Picard?"

Elizabeth Mueller said...

Snow Cinders sounds very inspired, as in, realistic fiction and not invented scifi like the Hunger Games! Thanks for spotlighting Catherine Constantine!

While I haven't heard of Crimson Peak, my teenaged son has! Ha! Time to crawl out from under this rock...

Hehe, I haven't read the blurb on Poltergeists Pleasure, but it sounds like an erotica! :P

My thoughts on A Matter of Taste's cover: There is a little woman on the spoon. And the sensation of imagining the crunching of bones in my mouth did not sit well. Blech! xP

When did the StarWars linky close? But you just set this up yesterday, right? I can't sign up though you invite us too!

Happy, Tuesday, Alex! Thanks for visiting my blog. :)

♥.•*¨Elizabeth¨*•.♥



Aw! I saw the due date of the StarWars Blogfest! x( I've missed it!

Robin said...

I like the premise of Snow in Cinders. I actually spent time thinking about stock up items. Living on the coast (even though Jax hasn't experienced a direct hit since Dora) keeps it in the forefront of the brain. I tend to always have lots of TP, canned food, and I fill bottles with water so that we could last for quite a while. Plus I have bought bottled water stocked up.

I liked both of your songs this go-round. I think the edge goes to Lou Gramm. Arlee voted against it because it sounded 80s. I like 80s!

Your list was funny. May the force be with you!

Sherry Ellis said...

It's good to be prepared for any type of disaster!

Yes, I completed my anthology submission! It's being edited. I'll submit it as soon as the edits are complete.

Guilie Castillo said...

Snow on Cinders sounds excllent! Much success to Cathrina with it, and gratitude to you for featuring her. I've been hearing different feedback on Crimson Peak, and I was about to dismiss it, but your drawing a line between Pan's Labyrinth (one of my all-time favorite films) and Hellboy has convinced me—I shall give it a go :) And your list of Force Awakens won't-be-heard was awesome. "This film could use a healthy dose of Jar-Jar" made me spit out my coffee :D Great list, Alex. Thanks for co-hosting the Listing Hop with Bish; I'll be looking forward to the next edition.
Guilie @ Quiet Laughter

Tyrean Martinson said...

Oh, I loved your list! It made me laugh so hard! Thank you. :)

Karen Peterson said...

Wait...you mean there's no Jar Jar??

Katharina Gerlach said...

What a geeky list. Dare I admit that I haven't watched a single one of the movies? So the list didn't make any sense to me whatsoever... :D

J.H. Moncrieff said...

I'm happy and proud to say that I DID manage to write a story for the anthology! I plan to send it in today.

Crimson Peak sounds up my alley. Thanks for the recommendation.

Sandra Cox said...

Good luck with Snow, Catherine. How would we survive without computers and cell phones.

Michelle aka Naila Moon said...

Neither have I heard. Geeze...
Have we your theme for next week? I cannot wait.
Congrats to the author releases.
I need my couch redone! LOL
Good to see you too!

Naila Moon

Robyn Campbell said...

Hey, Alex. Wow. Bish's blogfest looks great. I'm so sorry I missed it. :(

We've had some tests going on here in Chapel Hill. Sunday, we had an MRI that lasted over three hours. Christopher did. He was so worn out. They didn't give him any sedative because meds like that can cause people who have his disorder to have a stroke. He did way better than I could have.

Congrats to all the releases. I counted 6. Is that the most ever, Alex? I have Denise's.

I can't wait to read Snow On Cinders. It sounds like a great book to curl up with beside the fire. Catherine, I'm from the Keys, and we always had a kitchen cabinet that was dubbed the 'hurricane cabinet'. It was loaded with batteries, canned goods, lanterns, etc. Loved reading your guest post.

Toi Thomas said...

My husband has been preparing for the zombie apocalypse, but this is a bit different. I guess if communication is an issue, I'd stock up on battery and drones, so I could use them to set up a communication network... Too geeky?

Crimson Peak seems like a rental for me, only because it looks scarier than I'm comfortable with being out in public.

Thanks for co-hosting the list hop. It's fun. I listed about chick films.

Tammy Theriault said...

love all the books coming out! your list was brilliant!

Empty Nest Insider said...

Congrats to Catherine and all of the authors! What a great list! I especially liked your question about Han Solo's and Chewbacca's "love child!"

Julie

Unknown said...

Look at all those new books to read!

Heather M. Gardner said...

ALEX!!!

Congrats to Catherine! Best of luck!

The only reasons I might watch Crimson Peak? Hunnam and Hiddleston.

I admit. I have failed the anthology contest. I couldn't pull it off. But, I'm looking forward to reading what others have come up with!

Congrats on all the books!

The husband picked Dokken and I picked Mr. Gramm. Not that either one are very good, but I did love The Lost Boys. :)

Great Star Wars list! An Ewok covered couch? I'd never get the cats off of it!

Heather

Loni Townsend said...

That robotics thing looks really cool. My daughter is still a year too young, but if they have something like this next year, we might do it!
You don't think someone will ask, "So, which character is the love child of Han Solo and Chewbacca?" That sounds like my husband. :)

Jeffrey Scott said...

Just checking to make sure you received my song vote above. I would hate for my vote to go to waste. ;)

EEGiorgi said...

Oooh, love the title snow on cinders... so poetic !!

Cathy Kennedy said...

Alex, thanks for stopping by to check out my list. What would I stock pile in the event of a global disaster? If it involves zombies, then I'd wanna good stash of weapons preferably a crossbow (note to self: learn how to shoot crossbow), automatic handguns, a special suit worn by divers in shark infested waters (if it protects swimmers from a shark bite, then surely it's good for zombie attacks, too), and lots of bottled water & freeze-dried provisions. Of course any and all of these provisions are excellent to have for any type of disaster, so I think I'd be set pretty well for said catastrophe. I haven't seen Crimson Peak, but I will check out the movie trailer. Dokken's Dream Warriors gets my vote for sounding the creepiest. Have a spooktacular week, my friend!

Crystal Collier said...

Yay for Cathrina! (And everyone else with releases.) I haven't watched any movies recently. Not a single one. We all have seasons when life is pretty full, eh?

Bob/Sally said...

Good news, Alex - I hear this year's Holiday Special is a Lucas developed 2 hour in-depth exploration of midi-chlorians, hosted by Jar-Jar Binks.

Susan Kane said...

Dream Warriors, definitely. Lost in the Shadows reminds me too much of the 90s, big hair and all.

Sandra Cox said...

I think Crimson Peak would be a bit too intense for me.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Al, true!

Elizabeth, sorry you missed the Listing Hop.

Robin, thanks for voting!

Sherry, and we received it.

Guilie, I aim to amuse!

Tyrean, good to hear?

Karen - funny!

JH, and we received it!

Naila, yes you do! Soundtracks.

Robyn, it just might be the record.

Heather! Do I count that as a tie?

Loni, I stand corrected.

Cathy, thanks for voting!

Bob, that wouldn't surprise me...

Susan, thanks for voting!

Leandra Wallace said...

Man, would I miss TP if it went away! =) And, sadly, I don't know much about the whole Star Wars fandom. I just remember being scared as a little kid of the big walking robot things on two legs. =)

Jennifer Lane said...

Ugh, I can't stand Jar Jar!

I would hoard Trader Joe's cookie butter (aka "crack") for a global disaster.

kimlajevardi.com said...

Congrats to the published folks!

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hi, Alex,

Thanks for the review... sounds like a good movie...

WOW, there are a lot of new titles out. Congrats to all...

Thanks for the reminder on the anthology! I just may try to pen something out today. If it works, I will polish it up and send it in. It would really feel good to write something new and fresh.

Debra Renée Byrd said...

lol Silly list.

Debra Renée Byrd said...

Whoops, not done. lol My sister didn't like Crimson Peak, I think because it WAS presented as a horror movie. I'm not as curious as I once was, but I might still get it on Redbox.

Sandra Cox said...

In regards to your comment at my blog. I'm touched and appreciative. Thanks, Alex.

J Lenni Dorner said...

I love the cover of Snow on Cinders. Sounds like a good read, too. I think Type O Negative has the best music choices for Halloween selections. Ha ha, I love your StarWars list! In a global disaster I'd think, well, this isn't the first one, and it won't be the last one. No, I haven't seen Crimson Peak. No, I don't have an ISWG entry. Or kids. The new book I see is "Trust Me, I'm Trouble," which I just got a week ago. My list, if I had one, would be a list of what I'm working on for NaNoWriMo. I'm not doing a straight up 50,000 word novel. I'm doing a project of several things that should add up to the word count.

cheerfuloptimistic said...

Food and water would be a top priority in case of emergencies. Things like blankets and towels would be helpful too.

Crimson Peak sounds like the kind movie I won't watch for a few years until I buy on DVD for cheap.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Incase of a global disaster I would stock up on food and water and medicines. Congratulations to all the writers with book releases happening this week.

Annalisa Crawford said...

Congrats to all the authors and their new releases.

Hubby is stupidly excited about The Force Awakens. The kids and I are just the right level of excited :-)

Heather R. Holden said...

Congrats to Cathrina! Her new book sounds so intense.

And great review for Crimson Peak! I've been wanting to check that movie out for a while, but I don't have the time or money to see it in theaters right now, so I might have to wait till it's out on DVD.

DMS said...

My vote is for Dokken with this one.

I've been seeing Snow on Cinders around and have been very curious about it. I love the cover. I also agree that TP would be a great thing to have on the ready- along with some other necessities. :)
~Jess

N. R. Williams said...

Congratulations to Catherine on the release of your book.
Nancy

Steven Arellano Rose Jr. said...

Crimson Peak: if it has plenty of ghoulish characters, a
Degree of suspense and is gothic, I can go for it and it's close enough to horror for me. I really liked the Lost Boys movie including the soundtrack, so I'd have to go with that. Let me get back to you on the survival supplies.

Unknown said...

Holy cow look at all the new releases this week! Congrats to Christine, Pat, Denise, Sandra, RaChelle, and ML!

Congrats to Cathrina on her new release. I love that cover. In an apocalypse, I'd hoard canned food (boring but practical).

klahanie said...

Yes, I know, you are waiting patiently for one of my much cherished comments. Maybe next time...

Hello Catherine and hearty congrats on your latest book. Time to get loads of butt wipe, methinks.

So many links and thanks, Alex. As for any kind of blogfest, blog hop, um, thanks but no thanks....

Have a good one.

Gary

Stephen Tremp said...

Dokken. Now that's a blast from the past. Lots of rocking tunes. And been so darn busy with new job I spaced the The Listing Fest.

I still bring up live tunes from Foreigner from back in the day. Star Rider is my favorite tune from the band.

Fundy Blue said...

Hey, Alex! A blogging friend had posted this parody on her blog: Queen's Bohemian Raposody as Bethlehemian Rhapsody. I though it was quite clever. I thought you might get a kick out of it. So here's a link, but only if you have time ~ no pressure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paYnKq4XCxI

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jennifer, I'll have to try the cookie butter.

Michael, hope you get it done in time.

Deborah, shame on those who marketed the movie.

J Lenni, Type O does have some scary sounding songs. His voice really lent well to them.

Heather, definitely catch it on DVD.

Jess, thanks for voting!

Steven, thanks for voting.

Gary! Always good to hear from you my friend.

Stephen, you've been a bit busy. And unique choice for favorite Foreigner song.

Thanks, Fundy!

Brandon Ax said...

Crimson Peak is on my list of "to see" movies. I can't wait to see how the anthology goes.

Mason T. Matchak said...

I don't have a Star Wars list, but I did read an intriguing analysis of the prequels this morning that suggests Jar-Jar Binks is actually the main villain and far more powerful and in control than anyone thought. Take a look: https://www.reddit.com/r/StarWars/comments/3qvj6w/theory_jar_jar_binks_was_a_trained_force_user/

Sandra Cox said...

Hope you're having a great weekend. Chat with you Monday:)

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

A lot of interesting things! I love it when a house is a character in a book.

We are so dependent on our electronic devices, I doubt we can survive now without them!

kimlajevardi.com said...

I'd stock up on duct tape. Seriously that stuff could be used for everything. I hope you had a great weekend!

Blue Grumpster said...

A healthy dose of Jar-Jar... Of course, there's no such thing. Boppity Blue sounds like a blast, but I may be biased. I may.

kimlajevardi.com said...

I'd stock up on duct tape. Seriously that stuff can be used for anything. I hope you had a great weekend!

Leovi said...

It looks very interesting Crimson Peak!

Bob Sanchez said...

What to stock in the event of a global emergency? Water, batteries, non-perishables, all assuming everyone else hadn't scooped it all up.

Ella said...

A wonderful post, Captain! You dazzle us with Christmas ideas, movies and music~ Yes, your Ninja techniques are still spot on! Christmas always scares me more than Halloween. It is the marathon event of the season, but I love it~

You have done a great job show casing what is in the know-thank you!
It is nice to be back~

Thank you, Captain AC~

Pat Tillett said...

I'm not sure I'd want to survive a global disaster. If so, I want food, water and a lot of kitty litter for my cats.

Deniz Bevan said...

Ooh, so much exciting Ninja News!

Love that line about Jar-Jar :-)