Bloody Mary with Chrys Fey! Plus the You Rock Award and Ninja News.

Today I have the honor and privilege of appearing at C S Lakin’s Live Write Thrive. My topic - How to Handle Writer Insecurity.

I was that Kid...

By Chrys Fey

I was the skinny girl who would sit in the dark with a flashlight, making up ghost stories to frighten my friends. Their squeals were cheers to me.

When I was twelve, my friends and I liked to huddle in a dark bathroom, stand in front of the mirror and call out, “Bloody Mary.” One of my friends would say “Bloody Mary” once and then chicken out. Another would shriek, “Did you hear that?” or “Something touched me!” Yet another would be in charge of the lights and would turn them on if we got too scared. The lights went on a lot.

I was the girl who would have the guts to blurt out “Bloody Mary” three times. Immediately after, I’d hear gasps of fear and awe. Seconds later someone would scream, which would prompt us all to scream and shove each other out of the bathroom only to go back in minutes later and do it again.

Available Now: GHOST OF DEATH at Amazon US, Amazon UK, The Wild Rose Press, and Nook.

Available for PRE-ORDER: WITCH OF DEATH at Amazon US and Amazon UK

Find Chrys: Blog, Facebook, Website, and Goodreads

Ninja News

Today at the A to Z Blog, I am kicking off the Themes That Rocked the Challenge feature with someone really awesome - J.H. Moncrieff! You like strange, ghostly, and bizarre? Then check it out.

Edi at Edi’s Book Lighthouse announced a writing contest – Epic Worlds. Check out his site for details.

Available now!
Iron Warrior by Jay Noel
(The Mechanica Wars Book 3)
Find it at Amazon and Barnes and Noble

Available May 13!
A Taste Of Pain by G. B. Miller
Find it at Smashwords

The Blood, Boobs, and Carnage Blogfest is May18 – next Monday! Movie/show/book that exemplifies the theme, or part of the theme. Hosted by me and Heather Gardner. Join us – it will be epic!

You Rock Award!

I started this five years ago, right after the very first A to Z Challenge. This is to honor blogger buddies who have come to mean so much to me over the years.

Past recipients include Arlee Bird, Yvonne Lewis, RaShelle Workman, Hannah, Jeffrey Beesler, Gail, Rusty Webb, Chuck, George, Jeremy Hawkins, Matthew, Old Kitty, Ella, M Pax, Roland Yeomans, Melissa Bradley, Robyn Engel, Lynda Young, Michael Di Gesu, Heather Gardner, Stephen Tremp, Father Dragon Al, the late Tina Downey, Damyanti, Edi, Karen Walker, Elizabeth Spann Craig, and Suze.

Every year, it gets harder! There are those on the IWSG team, the A to Z Challenge team, and my faithful blogger buddies. How do I only pick a handful when so many are worthy? You guys are all awesome. I can only honor a few though.

This year’s You Rock recipients are…

Susan Gourley
She’s one of my IWSG admins and a fellow A to Z co-host. She’s a talented writer and an excellent organizer. No matter what, I know I can always count on her. But more than that, she’s been an awesome friend for so many years now. I don’t know what I’d do if this amazing woman vanished from the blogging world. Susan, you rock!

Pat Hatt at It’s Rhyme Time
Pat is a talented writer and poet, with dozens of books to his credit. He is owned by two cats, Orlin and Cassie, and blogs a snarky poem every single day. His sense of humor is awesome and matched only by his giving heart. Despite the fact he’s buried Mini-Alex in the litterbox more than once, Pat is a dedicated and amazing friend. Dude, honored to call you a friend – you rock!

Jo at Jo on Food, Life, and a Scent of Chocolate
Hailing from Canada, Jo posts daily about her life, interesting facts, and recipes. She also has a quick wit – her animal for Z last month was a zebra, followed by a recipe for zebra! She is also Grandmother Dragon to our private Dragon Fellowship group, watching over us and giving sage advice. Jo, you’re a very caring and supportive friend – you rock!

Michelle at Writer in Transit
From South Africa, Michelle is one of my IWSG admins. She’s a flash fiction master and isn’t afraid to tackle anything. What I admire most about Michelle is her enthusiasm. Plus her creativity knows no bounds. She gets an idea and runs with it. I’m fortunate to know her. Michelle, you keep me on my toes – you rock!

Brandon and Bryan at A Beer For the Shower
I’ve known these dudes for five years now, although we lost touch for a while during blogging growth spurts. The authors of numerous books, their site is bursting with humor and snark. These boys pull no punches – they call it like it is. Despite the rough edges they exhibit, both have morals and strong values. (Bryan is even a minister!) They are just the nicest guys and I’m honored they are my friends. Brandon and Bryan – you guys rock!

Christine Rains
Christine is a talented hybrid author, dabbling in numerous genres. I’m always astonished by what she accomplishes considering her busy schedule. She writes and blogs on a tight schedule, and always with considering as to how she can help her fellow writer. She is indeed ‘Fearless’ and an amazing friend. Christine, I really admire you – and you rock!

Truedessa
Most of the You Rock recipients I’ve known for years, but every now and then someone comes along who really speaks to your heart. Truedessa is an amazing poet, one with a gentle and loving spirit. She often embarks on adventures with Pat Hatt, and her natural innocence and pure heart shines through even then. Truedessa, you are the brightest star in the sky – and you rock!


Did you ever say Bloody Mary to a mirror? Ready for Blood, Boobs, and Carnage? Do you miss the A to Z Challenge? (Road Trip opens this week.) Are you following those blogger? Who rocks your world…?

Be sure to visit C S Lakin’s Live Write Thrive!

A to Z Challenge – B – Cult Classics Better Off Dead, Boston, Brave New World, and More! Plus Amazing Write Club News.

A to Z Challenge – Cult Classics – B

Movies-Music-Sci-fi Book-Bloggers-Dragon Term

Movies-

Better Off Dead
A funny take on 80’s teen romances with hundreds of quotable lines – I want my two dollars! This 1985 film became an instant classic on video.

Big Trouble in Little China
Carpenter at his most fun with almost every genre thrown in the blender. This 1986 film was not a hit upon its release, but has since gained ground and earned solid reviews.

Music album –

Boston – Boston
A debut album that still sounds fresh today, it sold twenty-five million copies and gave the world the iconic More Than a Feeling.

Science Fiction Book-

Brave New World – by Aldous Huxley
One of the top novels of the 20th century, Huxley put a dark, dystopian spin on the future. It was also banned many times over the years.

Bloggers –

Bryan and Brandon at A Beer for the Shower
Do you have a tough skin? Not easily offended? Want the truth? Brandon and Bryan will give it to you! They tackle the degenerates we loath while poking fun at everyone. Brimming with snark, Brandon and Bryan are the authors of many books.

Helena at Becoming Layla
Want to journey with an author as she delves deep into a character? Want to become Layla? Helena’s cover many aspects of her adventures. Enjoy the ride!

Beth Ellyn Summer
Want to see the fun side of writing? Want visuals and lists and a positive attitude? Beth’s sweet nature will charm the socks off you!

Dragon of the Stars Term –

Balkan –
The Balkan is a small war ship that was popular for years before being discontinued. Aden is placed at the helm of a refitted ship and charged with finding the Dragon. The craft gets its name from the Balkan whip snake.

Dragon of the Stars comes out April 7, 2015
Check out the site What Are the Kargrandes? for clues as to how they tie into the story.

And just a few days left to join the Thunderclap campagin for the book!

To prepare for the launch of Dragon of the Stars next week, my publisher has dropped the price of CassaStorm to .99 cents at Amazon. (If you prefer ePub, it’s also on sale at Dancing Lemur Press.) CassaStorm is my highest rated book, winner of the Pinnacle Achievement Book Award, and was an eFestival of Books 2014 Winner. Sale good until April 4!

If anyone would like to Tweet about the sale, I would appreciate it:
Award-winning & best-selling CassaStorm by Alex J. Cavanaugh on sale for .99! http://tinyurl.com/q8dq3se @alexjcavanaugh #99cents #scifi

Ninja News

DL Hammons had a special announcement regarding Write Club:
Now, the WRiTE CLUB Champion will be announced during the DFW Conference, receive a three-chapter critique of their work by several of the judges – and – FREE ADMISSION TO THE DFW CONFERENCE IN DALLAS FOR 2016. That is a $400 value and an experience that cannot be missed! Wait, that’s not all – both finalist will also receive a $75 Amazon gift card! 


Sandra Ulbrich Almazan also has a Thunderclap for her upcoming book, Scattered Seasons.

Fan of either movie? Read Brave New World? Following those awesome bloggers? Figured out the Kargrandes yet? Excited for Write Club? And what would be your pick for Cult Classic B…?

Writing Tips from A Beer For The Shower, CassaFire Sale Results, and Ninja News!

You are in for a treat today! We have some expert writing advice from Brandon Meyers and Bryan Pedas, the genius minds behind A Beer For The Shower. They also have a new book out, Empirical Evidence: A Novelette. It’s there first venture into science fiction and it’s free today through Wednesday, February 12 on Amazon.

Take it away, Brandon and Bryan!

Hey all, we're Brandon and Bryan from A Beer for the Shower, and as co-authors of multiple novels that have been praised by people that are not our parents, we wanted to share some of our favorite writing tips for you today.

Forget what you heard about writing with your heart and crafting what you love. That's clearly nonsense. Here's what you really need to do to reach success as a writer.

1. Don't be afraid to give up

Did you know that success means hard work? Well, trying is hard. Really hard. So if your novel doesn't sell on the first try, you should probably give up and take on something more meaningful like crochet, or start a cat collection. Bryan's currently up to 8!

Doesn't this little glimpse of paradise look better than "trying"?

2. Criticism is for the weak

If someone tells you something like, "Your novel is good but it needs work in a few spots" what they're really saying is "I hate you and I spit in your face." Also, they're probably just jealous of your infallible talent. Rather than humbly accept their criticism and better your writing skills, you should probably hire street thugs to beat them into a coma. It's only fair for them having the downright audacity to offer you their honest criticism.

3. Write to fads

Writing a truly unique story that comes from the heart is fun and all, but it's no guarantee that your book will sell. But you know what will sell? Fads. Just find whatever's popular now, write a complete ripoff with one or two minor changes, and reap in the sweet, sweet benefits of selling out!

Cheers and stay classy, guys,
Bryan and Brandon

"I hate it when authors come to schools and tell the kids write from your heart. I don't think I've ever written a single word from my heart. I write to entertain the audience." - R.L. Stein, literary genius

Ninja News

Feeling a little anti-Valentine’s? Then you need to enter Robyn’s Anti-Valentine’s Day Giveaway! She’s giving away some high quality chocolate. Visit Life By Chocolate for details.

It was another awesome posting for the Insecure Writer’s Support Group! Thanks to my co-hosts, Sheena-kay Graham, Julie Musil, Jamie Ayres, and Mike Swift.

Don’t forget the Epic 2000 Followers Giveaway. Books for you, books for your library, t-shirts, and iTunes gift cards. Become a Google Friends Connect follower to enter.
Full details HERE. Just a few more to go!

CassaFire’s 99 Cents Promotion Results

Today, February 10, is the last day to grab my second book, CassaFire, for 99 cents on Amazon.

The sale started on February 4 and my publisher ran several ads.


The results?


Nancy Thompson caught it late Friday night while it was still rising the charts at #194! (That’s #194 out of ALL the books on Amazon!)

I caught it the following morning at #216:

I was also on several top 100 authors lists:

(Ahead of some dude name Asimov but behind some hack named Heinlein – the nerve!)

I didn’t catch it at its peak, but it was number 1, 2, or 3 in many categories, including Space Opera, and in the top ten for Science Fiction. CassaFire’s rise also bumped up sales of the other two, CassaStar and CassaStorm, placing them on several top 100 lists.

I was blown away!!!

Huge thanks to the hundreds who posted about it, sent out Tweets, mentioned it on Google+, and commented on Facebook. (I’m not even on Facebook – that is too wild!)

Mick from EBook Bargains UK caught the ad on BookBub, and since he’d seen my comments on Anne R. Allen’s blog many times, he grabbed it and added it to nine of their country listings as well. Thanks, Mick!

Once again, my heartfelt thanks. I am blessed to be a part of such an awesome community of writers and bloggers.

Final day Tweets:

“Top Gun Meets Battlestar Galactica” Alex J. Cavanaugh’s CassaFire on sale .99 http://tinyurl.com/qaz7kxr #scifi #99cents

Reminiscent of the action-driven stories of Robert A. Heinlein's early fiction - Library Journal. CassaFire only .99 http://tinyurl.com/qaz7kxr

Think Brandon and Bryan’s advice rocks? Ready to take up a cat collection? (Be sure to download their new book!) Feeling anti-Valentine’s? Enjoy last week’s IWSG? And anyone else experience great success with a book at a discounted price?

Working on my manuscript this week, so no Wednesday post. But the Ninja will be lurking…

THE STORM HAS ARRIVED! CassaStorm Now Available! Plus Cassa Facts, Trivia, News, and More!

Today’s tour spot is very special. Three years ago, a book blogger in Germany posted a review of CassaStar. He continued his support of the series by hosting me on CassaFire’s release day. And now, I am honored to be featured at Edi’s Book Lighthouse on CassaStorm’s release day with an interview, review, and giveaway. Edi, I continued this series for you. Thank you, my friend, for demanding more of me than I thought I could give. You rock!!

And tonight is the RUSHED Twitter Party! Between 8:00 and 9:00 pm EST, follow the hashtag #RUSHED for an hour of fun, questions, answers, treasure hunts, and giveaways. Hosted by the awesome Lynn Rush and featuring giveaways from both of us. It’s my first ever Twitter party, so please join us tonight!

And CassaStorm’s release week kicks off with prizes every day! Comment between September 16 and 20 to enter. (Ends 6:00 pm EST Sunday, September 22.)
Prizes include:
Cassa mousepad
Cassa Universe poster
Cassa magnet
Cassa mug
Autographed copy of CassaStorm
One person will be randomly selected each day and the five names will be drawn from a hat – first person gets first choice and so on.

This week I will be featuring my tour, unique Cassa facts, trivia, and prizes every day. Plus others are announcing CassaStorm’s release, and almost every post features a unique interview question. List of participants on the CassaStorm Page. So join the fun!

Launch Day – Final Book!

CassaStorm

By Alex J Cavanaugh

From the Amazon Best Selling Series!

A storm gathers across the galaxy…

Commanding the Cassan base on Tgren, Byron thought he’d put the days of battle behind him. As a galaxy-wide war encroaches upon the desert planet, Byron’s ideal life is threatened and he’s caught between the Tgrens and the Cassans.

After enemy ships attack the desert planet, Byron discovers another battle within his own family. The declaration of war between all ten races triggers nightmares in his son, threatening to destroy the boy’s mind.

Meanwhile the ancient alien ship is transmitting a code that might signal the end of all life in the galaxy. And the mysterious probe that almost destroyed Tgren twenty years ago could return. As his world begins to crumble, Byron suspects a connection. The storm is about to break, and Byron is caught in the middle…

$16.95 USA, 6x9 Trade paperback, 268 pages, Dancing Lemur Press, L.L.C.
Science fiction/adventure and science fiction/space opera
Print ISBN 9781939844002 eBook ISBN 9781939844019
$4.99 EBook available in all formats

Find CassaStorm: Barnes and Noble, Amazon, Amazon Kindle, and Goodreads



"CassaStorM is a touching and mesmerising space opera full of action and emotion with strong characters and a cosmic mystery." - Edi's Book Lighthouse

“Cavanaugh makes world building on the galactic scale look easy. The stakes affect the entire known universe and yet Cavanaugh makes it intensely personal for our hero. The final installment of this series will break your heart and put it back together.” - Charity Bradford, science fantasy author of The Magic Wakes

“With a talent for worldbuilding and a compelling cast of characters, Alex J. Cavanaugh combines high powered space battles and the challenges of family dynamics to provide readers a space opera with heart.” - Elizabeth S. Craig, author of the Southern Quilting and Myrtle Clover mysteries

“I thought the revelation was going to be one thing and I was completely wrong … CassaStorm pushes the limits…” - Tyson Mauermann, Speculative Reviews

“…mesmerizing story of survival, personal sacrifice, tolerance, and compassion. It’s a rare jewel that successfully utilizes both character and plot to tell a story of such immense scope and intimate passion…” - Nancy S. Thompson, author of The Mistaken

"An exciting, nail-biting read which sweeps the reader off on adventures in another galaxy." - Nicua Shamira, Terraverum

“Cavanaugh creates such an unforgettable world, and these characters will stay with you long after their story is over.” - Cassie Mae, author of Friday Night Alibi and How to Date a Nerd

“…the racial conflicts propelled much of the plot in this story, driving home a message that's relevant to our own world and giving the book an interesting texture.” - C. Lee. McKenzie, author of Alligators Overhead

“Cavanaugh has created wonderfully moving moments of great poignancy… CassaStorm could have been a dark story full of hardship and angst, but instead it's a cleverly balanced story about hope and triumph.” - Lynda R. Young, author of Make Believe

“One thing Alex does really well is 'sell' the reader on his world building. …an enjoyable, fast-paced read that not only delivered on the final climax, but also managed to pleasantly surprise me.” - Bob Milne, Beauty in Ruins

Ninja News

Today isn’t just CassaStorm’s release day! Tony Laplume also released a book this week - The Whole Bloody Affair. Way to go, Tony!

Rachel Schieffelbein’s story, Seeing Red, is featured in a steampunk anthology from Spencer Hill Press. Real Girls Don’t Rust is available today – congratulations, Rachel!

Pat Hatt’s latest is out – Cassie and the Wild Cat. Congratulations, Pat and your little rhyming cat!

Bryan and Brandon have a new book out – The Graveyard Shift, a collection of horror stories. Congratulations, guys! A must read.

Kittie Howard revealed the cover for her upcoming book. Louisiana's A-Z Something Extra: Lagniappe is a personal and historical journey through the Bayou State that will launch in early October. Congratulations, Kitty!

Cassa Facts

How hard is it to find the right title for a book?

When I conceived the idea for my first book over thirty-five years ago, I wrote a vague and half-finished first draft and titled it CassaStar. Years later, after a complete rewrite and countless edits, my publisher accepted my manuscript. Miraculously, they kept the original title. (It was short, simple, and unique – lucky me.)

Since I’d never planned more than one book, I’d also never given consideration to other titles. When I submitted the manuscript to my second book, it had no title. My publisher made some suggestions and we narrowed it down to two. CassaFire became my second book.

I submitted my third manuscript and it also lacked a title. However, I had one in mind by that time, and after speaking with my publisher, we made a decision. The title that hadn’t worked for CassaFire fit perfectly – thus CassaStorm became my third book.

So if you’re trying to decide on a title, don’t panic! Just keep it simple, logical, and true to your story.

Cassa Trivia Answers from Monday

1 – What was the name of the Galactica’s fighters? Vipers
2 – Boxey had a mechanical daggit for a pet – what was its name? Muffit
3 – Who played Starbuck? Dirk Benedict
4 – Four pilots were in almost every episode – Captain Apollo, Lt. Starbuck, Lt. Boomer, and Flight Sgt. Jolly
5 – Who played Serina, Boxey’s mother, in the first three episodes? Jane Seymour
6 – At the time, it was the most expensive television show ever. How much did each episode cost to make? One million dollars!
7 – Who was the head writer and executive producer of the series? Glen A. Larson

Huge thanks to everyone who has visited my tour stops and posted the announcement so far!

Who is your favorite book blogger? Picking up some new books this week? Get any of the trivia right? And how hard is it for you to come up with a book title?

Don’t forget to visit Edi’s Book Lighthouse today and catch the #RUSHED Twitter party tonight from 8-9:00 pm EST – lots of prizes!

A to Z Challenge – Terminator 2 and Trial of Tears, Plus Ninja News

My theme for the A to Z Challenge is Favorite Movies, Bloggers, and Music! I’ll name a favorite movie that corresponds with the letter, and then select a character from the film. I will then name a favorite blogger who reminds me of that character, and then dedicate a song to him. (Also corresponding with the alphabet.) I’ll wrap it all up with trivia and/or fun facts about the movie, the blogger, or the music!

In addition, two lucky commenters this month will receive a review copy of CassaStorm! One comment per day and each is worth one entry except – the first and one hundredth comments on each day will receive ten entries!

Terminator 2: Judgment Day

This film was before its time and shocked everyone with its large budget. (It went on to make a ton of money though.) T2 is an incredible science fiction action film that stands up even today. Another Cameron masterpiece.

John Conner is Sarah’s son. He’s not quite sure what he is doing or his purpose. He wants to believe and he wants connection. John is raw, uninhibited, and genuine. And whether he realizes it or not, he’s destined for great things.

Who is John Conner?

Yolanda at Defending the Pen!

She entered our world unsure of where she belonged or what she wanted to do. She knows she needs to be tough, but she doesn’t want to do it alone. She is just as genuine and real, and I see great things in her future!

Yolanda is a writer and defender of all that is literary. And a very cool blogger buddy.

To you I dedicate Trial of Tears by Dream Theater. (Title leads to YouTube.)

Doesn’t matter where you’ve been or who you once were – who are you now? “Take a look at yourself, Not at anyone else, And tell me what you see…”

Trivia and Facts:

Several of Dream Theater’s members attended the largest independent college of contemporary music in the world, located in Boston – name it.

What food is Yolanda allergic to?

S’s trivia answer – none! Serenity was Joss Whedon’s first film.

Ninja News

Literary Rambles featured Lisa Rojany Buccieri, author of WRITING CHILDREN’S BOOKS FOR DUMMIES 2nd EDITION. She’s the author of over a hundred children’s and adult books, is a freelance publishing editor, and has been an editor with a number of publishing houses. If you write for children, you need to check out the interview.

Brandon and Bryan at A Beer For the Shower just released a new book, Lost and Found, and it is free today only. See their site for details, as you could also win the book in print. Congratulations, Brandon and Bryan!


Cate Masters has a new book that just came out – Cursed. Congratulations, Cate!

Fan of the Terminator movies? (I pretend the fourth one never happened.) Following Yolanda? Have I converted any of you into Dream Theater fans? Know the trivia? Write for kids? Picked up Lost and Found or Cursed? Can you believe only one more week before the Challenge ends? I only have six more bloggers to feature...

Ninaj News, A to Z Minions, Wacky Waddles, Champion in the Darkness, and is Blogging Dying?

Ninja News

Gypsywoman (a.k.a. Jenean C. Gilstrap) just released a new book, Words Unspoken from Yareah Book Publishers. Congratulations, Jenean!

Thanks to everyone who signed up for my CassaStorm Cover Reveal on February 22!

The A to Z Challenge list continues to grow – 650 participants now.

Don’t forget my Top Ten Movie Countdown Blogfest on March 18!

Wednesday Movie Quote is being postponed until next week! Sorry, but I’m taking Wednesday off this week. I’ve finished revisions on CassaStorm and want to go through it once more, so I need some extra time this week. Wednesday Movie Quote will resume on February 20 with a “romantic comedies” quote.

A to Z Minions!

Thanks to all of the volunteers last Friday – I was overwhelmed! I let some of the other hosts select from the list as well. Special thanks to those who are now officially A to Z Ninja Minions:

Al Diaz
Baygirl32
Ciara Knight
Elise Fallson
Heather Gardner
JL Campbell
Joylene Nowell Butler
Michelle

Miranda Hardy’s Picture Book Release!

Wacky Waddles is a rhyming picture book for young readers written by Miranda Hardy and illustrated by Rimi Rasheed. You can find their bios at Quixotic Publishing.

Wacky Waddles is currently available in print and ebook versions on Amazon, as well as an ebook through Barnes and Noble.

Champion in the Darkness by Tyrean Martinson


Available today!!

Clara is younger than most trainees, but she is ready to hold a Sword Master's blade. While visions and ancient prophecies stand in her way, they also offer a destiny unlike any other. Clara is aided by a haunted mentor, Stelia, whose knowledge of their enemy Kalidess is both a bane and a blessing. As evil threatens their land, Clara and Stelia must find the strength to ov
ercome the darkness.
Champion in the Darkness is YA Christian Fantasy, and is the first book in the Champion Trilogy.

Tyrean Martinson lives and writes in the Northwest, encouraged by her loving husband and daughters, and reminded to exercise by her dogs and cat. Champion in the Darkness is the first book in the Champion Trilogy, and she has previously published short stories and poetry.

Champion in the Darkness can be found at Amazon, Smashwords, and Goodreads

Is Blogging Dying?

I know that question has been bouncing around for a while, but thought it was time I tackled the topic here.

Andrew Leon’s post for the IWSG tackled the topic of blog traffic. I read through the comments later and one caught my attention.

From Brandon and Bryan at A Beer For the Shower -
“I always hear that blogging is dying (especially from agents in the publishing industry) and yet I've seen nothing to support it. Yes, blogging's probably smaller than it was 5 years ago, but the people that say this kind of thing act like you should just stop trying because it's pointless. And yet the two of us sold thousands of books last year, books we would have not sold if all we had was a Facebook fan page and a personal website. So until we get 10 pageviews and 0 comments a day, and until we start getting 0 sales on Amazon, I'm going to keep blogging and I'm also going to keep believing that it's single-handedly the biggest reach we have.”

Not only do I agree with Brandon and Bryan, but that comment could’ve come from me. (Although I don’t think blogging is any smaller or larger than when I began a little over three years ago.) Even my publisher says this blog has made a huge impact on book sales, especially as I am so involved in the community. I’m on Twitter and Goodreads, but I don’t have a Facebook account or a website. I don’t write for a magazine, I don’t post my work elsewhere, and I’m not involved in any forums. This blog is my prime focus.

But as far as the rumor that blogging is dying, I don’t think it’s happening either. There is a natural ebb and flow to all things.

I think over the past year, some bloggers have ceased to follow new blogs. That was a common complaint last year after the A to Z Challenge – participants didn’t gain the following they expected. I haven’t gained a lot of followers in the past year either. (Which is all right – it’s given me time to build friendships with those who follow me now.)

And while many bloggers have chosen to pull back or give up (and after three years, I could give you quite a list of those who no longer blog) just as many new bloggers have taken their place. People like Livia and Father Dragon Al, who’ve jumped into blogging excited and ready to go. I don’t know about you, but their enthusiasm keeps blogging fresh for me.

Maybe that’s why blogging seems to be dying for some people – their circle of blogging friends is shrinking. There are definite spheres of influence in the blogging world as well, and I’ve also been around long enough to watch those circles shift, grow, and fade.

Bottom line for me – blogging is not dying.

What do you think?

Signed up for all of the events? Are you an A to Z Minion? (There are perks!) Picking up Mirands’s or Tyrean’s new books? And do you think blogging is dying?