A to Z Challenge Reflections...

Lee at Tossing It Out has asked us to do a reflection post regarding the A to Z Challenge. For those of you participating, post the link to your post below.

And Elizabeth Mueller made this really cool award badge for those who survived. Thanks, Elizabeth!

I was amazed at the variety of posts for each letter. You guys were really creative! I was also surprised by the variety of blogs participating, many of which had nothing to do with writing. Thanks again to Lee for asking me to be one of the co-hosts!

I just have two things I want to say about the Challenge.

Last year, there were only one hundred of us. We were able to visit everyone and it felt more intimate. I made some really awesome friends as well.

This year, visiting every blog was almost impossible. (This Ninja failed!) And in trying to do so, I realized it was more difficult to foster friendships. I’m sure a lot of people lost steam after the first week or so. Those using the special widget started at the beginning, although I think many switched to the ‘surprise me’ feature. I think a lot of blogs were overlooked.

Hart had an excellent suggestion, one I think we should adopt for next year. We start with the blog immediately following ours on the list. We go as far as we can, and if that’s only one hundred blogs, that’s fine. But that way, everyone receives visitors and no one feels overwhelmed.

Last year, my goal was to survive the month and gain some new followers. I made it to the end and almost tripled my following.

This year, I didn’t worry about gaining a ton of new followers. Yes, I could’ve followed everyone I visited and gained a ton of new followers. But that wasn’t my goal. I wanted to be a good co-host and spend the Challenge featuring my current blogger buddies. This community is so awesome and I wanted to give back.

As a side note, if you are following me but I’m not following you, please leave a comment! The Google Friends Connect sometimes doesn’t link a blog to your icon, but if you leave a comment, I can find your profile – and your blog to follow!

You guys are awesome and I hope everyone had a blast. It was really cool to hear how many were enjoying the Challenge and meeting new bloggers. That made it all worthwhile - to know there were bloggers in the same position that I was last year reaping the benefits. That is who this Challenge is for, and what keeps it fresh. Let’s make next year even better!

Remember to add your post link below…

A to Z Challenge - We're Finally at Z!!!

As in Z end!

Congratulations, everyone - we made it!!! We blogged for a whole month straight and from A to Z. Awesome!

Did you survive? Have fun? Meet some new bloggers? Learn some things about yourself?

If you’re still making your way through the list, never fear - it will remain posted her through May, and Lee might have his up even longer. With almost 1300 participants, this Ninja did NOT make it through the list, but I’m not giving up!

Did you achieve your goals? My main goal was my theme of featuring other bloggers. Last year I was just picking random stuff, trying to follow the letters. I blogged about Q*Bert for goodness sakes! (Half of you are asking “What the hell is Q*Bert?”)

I also wanted to make some new friends, but I wasn’t after hundreds of new followers. (Where would I put all of them? My house is not that big!) I value the friends I’ve made through this blog, and I want to be able to interact with those who visit me.

Now for the big question - what’s your take on this year’s Challenge?

This coming Monday is your chance to express your thoughts! May 2 will be an A to Z Challenge Reflections post for anyone who’d like to participate. The linky sign up will be available here on Monday - once your post goes live, just add the link. And don’t hold back! What were your thoughts? What were the high notes? Low notes? What would you like to see different next year - bigger, smaller, more hosts, more Ninjas…?

Thanks again to Lee at Tossing It Out for starting this awesome event. I pestered him all last year about doing it again, and this year exceeded all expectations!

Now, I need to go see a movie...

Fast Five!!

Who’s with me?

A to Z Challenge - Y - Blogfest!!!

And my video received recognition today for its second place finish at You Gotta Read Videos. Thanks again to all who voted!

Y?

Y it’s time for another blogfest!

First, there was the Dirty Dozen Movie blogfest…

Then, the Top Ten TV Shows blogfest…

Then, the Top Ten Countdown music blogfest…

How could I possibly top all that?

I probably can’t, but I hope I’ve come up with something fun that everyone in the blogging world can enjoy!

It’s All Fun & Games Blogfest, June 6, 2011 - list your three most favorite games and why. Board games, card games, RPG, video games, physical games, drinking games - even mind games! If it’s a game you enjoy playing, it’s worth sharing.

Not until June 6 - a whole month to recuperate from the Challenge!

Shall we play a game?

A to Z Challenge - X - We've Got Movie Sign!!

X marks the spot - for May movies! (Sadly the X-Men movie is not among them… Next month!!!) For all of my new followers and blogger buddies, I post a select list of upcoming movies every month. So, if you want to know what all the cool people are seeing in the theater, keep reading. (And by cool, I mean those enjoying the air conditioning as well as the Ninja cool people!)

All descriptions courtesy of the IMDB.

May 3

DVD - Green Hornet - Not enough to pull me in the theater, but hopefully worth a NetFlix rental






May 6

Thor
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Stars: Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Hopkins, Natalie Portman
The Plot: The warrior Thor (Hemsworth) is cast out of the fantastic realm of Asgard by his father Odin (Hopkins) for his arrogance and sent to Earth to live among humans. Falling in love with scientist Jane Foster (Portman) teaches Thor much-needed lessons, and his new-found strength comes into play as a villain from his homeland sends dark forces toward Earth.
Oh yeah, I’m there!!


May 13

Priest
Director: Scott Charles Stewart
Stars: Paul Bettany, Cam Gigandet, Maggie Q
The Plot: A priest (Bettany) disobeys church law to track down the vampires who kidnapped his niece.
Again, this movie just looks awesome. And on Friday the 13 - nice!



May 20

Pirates of the Cariibbean: On Stranger Tides
Director: Rob Marshall
Stars: Johnny Depp, Penélope Cruz, Ian McShane
The Plot: After crossing paths with a woman from his past (Cruz), Captain Jack Sparrow (Depp) is swept aboard the Queen Anne's Revenge, the ship of the formidable pirate Blackbeard (McShane), on an unexpected mission to find the elusive fountain of youth.
I wasn’t crazy about the last two, but now that they’ve dumped Will and Elizabeth, it appears the story will return to silly fun.


May 27

Kung Fu Panda 2
Director: Jennifer Yuh
Stars: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan
The Plot: Po (voice of Black) and the Furious Five venture to China to battle a villain and uncover the secrets of Po's mysterious origins.
More awesomeness! And Black REALLY needs a hit right now…


Any look enticing to you?

A to Z Challenge - W - and special thanks!

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Welcome to my World of Poetry
Yvonne is an incredibly special lady. She always takes the time to visit all of her online friends. If Yvonne doesn’t leave a comment, I send out the Ninja Posse! She’s like mom, watching over all of us. Her ability to write a poem on any subject just amazes me. She’s been a dear friend since last year’s Challenge, one of the incredible benefits of getting to know one's fellow bloggers. So, slide on over to Yvonne’s world now!

Wistful Nebulae
MPax is a fellow science fiction writer and she’s super creative. She’ll dazzle you with her pictures and trips to the museum. She’s all about the science, books, blogfests, and more. And she’s really smart! Check out my cool fellow FFW.

Special thanks:

To Univarn at A Life in Equinox - he celebrated his 900th post yesterday by asking a few of his followers to recommend one film that every moviegoer has to see in his or her lifetime. I made a recommendation, as did many of his awesome followers, and it's quite an amazing collection of films. Read about it at A Life in Equinox

And the biggest thanks to everyone who voted for my book's trailer! It was leading until Sunday, but I don't think it won. But I appreciate everyone who voted, sent Twitter and Facebook messages, blogged about it... It was a group effort by my Army of awesome Ninjas!

Guess it's time I polished that sequel, huh?

A to Z Challenge - V - and my trailer's in trouble!

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Velvet Over Steel
Coreen is a woman of pure spirit. Her Half Full and Aloha Fridays will start your weekend right. Coreen’s blog is very inspirational and encouraging, so if you’re feeling down, visit her today!


Last day to vote for my book trailer! And it's no longer winning!
Vote at You Gotta Read Videos If you think my trailer is cool and all that, please go vote!!! My publisher did such an awesome job with the trailer… And yes, I wish it were a real movie.

A to Z Challenge - U - and Movie to Avoid...

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Under the Tiki Hut
Carol flies in under the radar sometimes, but she’s always there when you need her. Her Top Ten Fridays are a perfect way to cap off the week with a smile. So grab a drink and hang out Under the Tiki Hut for a while.

Movie Review – Skyline

Was it REALLY as bad as everyone claimed? YES!

As expected, it started with the invasion and then switched to a little backstory. While this was an issue with most reviewers, it wasn’t long or annoying. Bland characters are introduced and we’re back to our invasion.

At this point, I think it’ll be all right. Not great, but watchable. But as the movie progresses, the ineptness of the writing took over.

Alien invasion films have been done very well before (War of the Worlds, Independence Day) and there was zero originality to the plot. While some of the effects were cool, the plot focused more on the bland characters trapped in the penthouse. Now, if you’re going to do this kind of story (like Battle: Los Angeles or Cloverfield) that aspect of the plot (and the characters) must be strong and riveting. Unfortunately for us, that’s Skyline’s weakest feature.

There’s many, many plot contrivances and situations that occur for no reason. (Immediately after the invasion begins - “We need to get to the Marina and get on a boat – the aliens aren’t over water yet!” WHAT?!) And there are long lulls of nothing. I was bored! An alien invasion film shouldn’t be boring. And it has two endings (as in the last five minutes felt very tacked-on), neither of which is satisfying – as if the writers had no clue how to end this mess.

What’s sad is producers greenlit this movie for a large release while overlooking Monsters, which was a thousand times better.

If you’re still curious, at least I warned you! It’s bad. And not even stupid-fun bad like Sharktopus.

Now that’s bad!

And just two more days to vote for my book trailer at You Gotta Read Videos!

A to Z Challenge - T and Disqus Issues!!!

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Ten Lives and Second Chances
Without a doubt, Kitty is one of my favorite people online! She possess such a great attitude and the origin of her blog title is really touching. Where she shines is in her comments! I have to make sure I’m not drinking when I read them. Kitty possesses a playful spirit that shines all over the web, and I’m honored she graces my blog with her presence.

Tessa's Blurb
Tessa is a writer - she thinks! But I know she's a writer. She's also an avid reader. She discusses both on her blog, but there's a lot more to Tessa. She's a sweetheart, and you'll discover that when she visits your blog. (I think she visits mine because I amuse her...)

DISQUS ISSUES!

For those of you who use the Disqus comment box, I've experienced challenges this week. I think a couple others had trouble as well. So, if you have a Disqus comment box (Ocean Girl, TS, Maurice) I may or may not be able to leave a comment. Sorry!

Anyone else feeling challenged with Disqus?

Have a Happy Easter, everyone! Got a couple movies to watch, but not heading to the theater. Wife wants to see the stupid cat movie. Last fall, the stupid horse movie was all right, but didn't care for the stupid owl movie. Maybe I should just avoid animal flicks in general!

My book trailer is in another contest at You Gotta Read Videos! If you think my trailer is cool and all that, please go vote!!! My publisher did such an awesome job with the trailer…

A to Z Challenge - S - and FFW

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Shift in Dimensions
Laura’s profile photo reveals a smile - but then again, so do her posts and comments! A fellow author, Laura always stops by to say hey and leave a word of encouragement. She also promotes helping her fellow man in any way possible.

Susan Says
Susan is a fantasy writer, and her series The Futhark Chronicles boasts the most amazing covers. She discusses books, her writing struggles, and champions other writers whenever possible. As Susan Says - no flaming unless you’re a real dragon!

Today is another edition of Fantastic Friday Writers! I invite your to check out my partners - Elizabeth, Anastasia, JD, Deirdra, M. Pax, Jeffrey, Charlene, and Andrew. I’m sure their take on this subject is better than mine!

Today's topic is Support Systems.

Another easy one. You guys are my support system. Every awesome blogger who visits with encouraging words. Every blogger who posts great tips. Every blogger who's helped me on my journey. (And the awesome bloggers who are now my critique partners.)

YOU are my awesome support system! And this Ninja thanks you...


My book trailer is in a contest! Vote for #7 CassaStar at You Gotta Read Videos if you think my trailer is worthy and cool and all that.

A to Z Challenge - R - and calling my friends!!!

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Rambles and Randomness
Vicki is a hoot! You never know what she’ll come up with next. Whether she’s recalling an amusing past incident or stalking Craig Niedermaier, you are in for a fun ride. The laughs are not random, I guarantee it!

The Rainy Day Wanderer
The Words Crafter is such a thoughtful person. She’s so considerate of her followers and friends, and she writes very reflective posts. No gloomy rain here - she’s a ray of sunshine!

And today I am honored that my book is a “R” post by Donna Hole and Familiar Spirits, as they are reviewing CassaStar.

What’s cool is Donna and Gail both understood the real theme of my book. Yes, it’s science fiction. But it’s about friendship. And in the grand scheme of things, that’s what really matters in life.

So thanks Donna and Gail! And a big thank you to all of my followers who have visited the bloggers I’ve recommended during the Challenge. Thanks for supporting my friends!

SPECIAL REQUEST OF MY FRIENDS!!!

And I know my regular followers are sick of this, but my book trailer is in another contest! Voting starts today at You Gotta Read Videos If you think my trailer is worthy and cool and all that, please go vote!!! My publisher did such an awesome job with the trailer…

A to Z Challenge - Q - and Rio review!

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Queen of Procrastination
Donea has a great sense of humor! I really doubt the dog in her icon is cuter than her. She posts some great photos and links, along with a mix of life. Check out her Find the Story Friday feature!

The QQQE
Matthew’s site focuses on query letters, and he’s done so much for other writers in this manner! Blogfests don’t scare him and he ventures into other areas as well. One day soon, Matthew’s book Warrior-Monks is going to rock the book world!

And this Ninja managed to sneak out for a movie...

RIO

Jesse Eisenberg voices Blu, a pet parrot suddenly dumped into an adventure in Rio with Jewel, voiced by Anne Hathaway.

This is a cute family film, and the most colorful animated movie I've ever seen. No exaggeration! There's nothing really original and the storyline is predictable. At its core, it's the tried and true romantic comedy. If you enjoy the formula, you'll enjoy this film.

A fun film with some amazing 3D effects, especially when the birds are flying over Rio. Good enjoyment for the whole family. Almost makes me want to visit Rio and join in the festivities of Carnaval.

Almost!

A to Z Challenge - P - and SyFy's Latest!

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Patrick Tillett
Patrick is an accomplished photographer and poet, and often combines those two talents in his blog posts. He’s a very devoted blogger and commenter, and his reflective words will cause you to think. You rock, dude!

pk hrezo
PK is a fellow writer and international airline agent. I’m sure her profession feeds her ideas for cool characters! She posts informative writing tips and I always learn something from PK. She’s a super gal so go say hello!

SyFy just announced their summer lineup HERE. On July 11, this science fiction geek will revel in a whole night of science fiction series! It kicks of with my favorite, Eureka, then it’s Warehouse 13, followed by the debut of a new series, Alphas.

And following their tradition of Saturday night craptastic flicks, they announced this gem for June 25 – Swamp Shark, staring Kristy Swanson and D.B. Sweeny. Mutant sharks in the Louisiana Bayous!

Yes, Swamp Shark has ‘sucks’ written all over it, but I’m willing to sacrifice my sanity and a couple hours of my life to do another play by play for my blogging friends. You can thank me by supplying Hot Tamales. Drinks might be needed as well…

A to Z Challenge - N (and cool geekness!)

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Nerdville Rhapsody
Kelly is an agented fantasy writer and calls herself a certified nerd. (Nothing wrong with that!) She also digs science fiction, movies, and covers a wide variety of topics on her blog. Kelly’s a cool nerd in my book!

Not Worth Mentioning
He goes by the name of Copyboy, and his blog isn’t for the faint of heart. He touches on pop culture, the unusual and gross, and anything else that catches his eye. Copyboy is willing to sacrifice his dignity for a laugh. Just don’t tell his wife…

And Nicole Zoltack had a new book release this week! Go tell her congratulations.


Now for a little science fiction geek news. Caught this last week and it’s just too cool!

Artist John Martz created a poster – Trexels – that features 235 Star Trek characters in pixelated form:


You can view the high-resolution image on his site HERE

Can you name all of the characters from the numerous Star Trek series and movies? I named most of them…

A to Z Challenge - M (and Award!)

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Musings of a Palindrome
Hannah is a beautiful person who’s full of enthusiasm and spirit. I called her Palin for the longest time, but now I always say Hannah because it’s a pretty name for a pretty gal. She shares my science fiction passion and on Tuesdays, she posts the coolest photos and pictures. Hannah does more than muse - visit her today!

Mithril Wisdom
Jamie is an amazing young man. Possessing a Masters in Egyptology, he also does reviews on his site and for other publications. He’s very involved in the book world and loves fantasy. Someone this talented is going to go far in life! Visit my buddy Jamie and tell him the Army is invading!

Jeffrey Beesler at World of the Scribe passed this award on to me. Thanks, dude – great timing!

And I am passing the Creative Blog Award along to:

Karen at Following the Whispers
Liz at 8-Bit Words



Have an awesome weekend, everyone! Any big plans? Movies? Writing? Ninja attacks?

A to Z Challenge - L - and I won!

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Life by Chocolate
Robyn has a twisted sense of humor! Her posts on celibacy and life in Paradise will have you in stitches. But beneath that tough, wry appearance is a wonderful woman full of compassion. Robyn highlights the absurd aspects of life. Give her visit. Oh, and bring chocolate!

L’Aussie Writing
Denise is just a wonderful person. She defines the word ‘involved.’ She’s supportive of her writer and author friends and passionate about helping those in need. One could not ask for a better cheerleader.

Lynda at W.I.P. It had a 500 Followers Giveaway Contest – and I won a $20 Amazon gift card! Or rather, gift email. Lynda, thanks and congratulations on the milestone!

Based on a review of Save the Cat Strikes Back at Helen Ginger’s site, I selected that book. The first one had some great tips in it, so I’m looking forward to reading the new one.

Now, if I can just apply those tips to my current manuscript…

A to Z Challenge - K (and Critique Partners)

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Kelly Polark
Kelly is a delight! In every picture, there’s that big, beautiful smile, and her joy bubbles over into every post and comment. Need a shot of happiness? Want to hear her sing? Visit Kelly today!


I want to thank everyone who answered my call for critique partners. Clarissa, Ellie, Stephanie, and Matthew, I really appreciate your offers. And any of you who need a first chapter critique – Clarissa is powerful! She’ll whip your work into shape in a heartbeat.

After much debating and deep Ninja thoughts (those hurt!), my new critique parters are Jeffrey at World of the Scribe and Rusty at Blutonian Death Egg. Jeffrey has a great sense of where I’m going with my words, and Rusty knows how to catch things I miss. Plus the dude has a great sense of humor – I about died laughing while reading his critique comments!

And Anne at Piedmont Writer will be helping me with the relationship stuff. (Translation – the man/woman stuff!) She’s a fantastic writer – I’m in awe of her use of language in her Regency romance. (And yes, this Ninja DOES know the difference between Regency romance and the Hyatt Regency.) Thanks guys!

A to Z Challenge - J and more...

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


And for all of your encouraging words yesterday - thank you!

Julie Musil
Julie always has some awesome writing tips! And they aren’t from the usual angle, either. She also employs visuals and really gets me to thinking about my own writing. Julie is just a cheery ball of wisdom!

The Journey
Colene boasts a smirk in everything she does! She loves the blogfests and throws out some great funny videos on Friday. (When we need them the most!) She has fun with definitions and word verification. Basically, Colene is just a lot of fun!

As for movies and the new iPad...

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World

Yes, I finally caught this flick on NetFlix. Quirky as hell, funny, and over the top. I can see why teens dig it - a mixture of graphic novel and video game. No real message - just goofy fun. My only complaint would be the run time - I was ready for it to end about twenty-five minutes before that happened.


As for the iPad - wow! The second generation rocks. So much faster. And the camera is pretty good, plus it has Facetime. And I'm happy to report I loaded both Tron: Legacy and Voyage of the Dawn Treader on my iPad this weekend, so I'll be watching some cool movies soon. Care to join me?

A to Z Challenge - I

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


izombie
As the blog name suggests, Jeremy is all about the zombies. This isn’t your typical zombie blog though - he’s a talented artist with a great sense of humor. He’s supportive in more ways than he realizes, too! So, follow the white rabbit…

in medias res
Milo is a fellow author who’s working on several projects. He discusses writing and books, and always includes great links. Milo’s posts will help anyone on the journey to publication. And the dude knows his short story market!

And an apology to all my blogging friends...

I was informed this weekend that my behavior last fall when my book was released was selfish and unacceptable. I'd asked for help announcing my first book's release, and many of you spread the word. I'd expressed my gratitude many times over, as more people repsonded than I'd ever imagined, helping to quiet the fears of a new author. However, I failed to offer those people compensation. I should have sent each one of you a complimentary book or something. (Book bloggers did receive an ARC from my publisher for review.) I apologize. I was not trying to use anyone. I was not trying to con people into promoting my book. I just asked for help.

This blogging community has been so awesome, and I've tried at every opportunity to give back. That is why I am featuring special bloggers every day for the Challenge. That's why I'll do everything I can to spread the word of new book releases and accomplishements. And don't send me your book - I'll just buy it! If that's not enough, please let me know. I don't want anyone else to feel slighted, to feel used, to feel cheated. I love all of you and would do anything on earth to support my friends. Because your friendship is so important to me.

I've lost one friend recently because of my selfish actions. I would rather not lose anyone else because I'm an idiot...

A to Z Challenge - H (and movie review!)

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers, many of whom are participating in the Challenge. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...

Holly Ruggiero
Holly is a writer and more! She’s an illustrator, a photographer, and a cook. She even has a storefront online at Zazzle. She’s a southpaw with spirit, and I look for her bear icon on every post, because I know Holly will have something bright to say. Visit her for a daily glow!

Hollywood Spy
Dezz reports the latest in Hollywood. He’s everywhere. He even featured my book when it was released, despite the fact it had nothing to do with movies. Someday, Dezz!. Visit the Hollywood Spy for the movie news

And speaking of movies...

HANNA
Staring: Saoirse Ronan, Eric Bana, Cate Blanchett
"Raised by her father to be the perfect assassin..."

This movie is not what it seems - think art house action flick. It's more about Hanna's journey of discovery as she's exposed to the world for the very first time. Beautifully shot with emphasis on light, it moves at a slower pace than normal. But when the action occurs, it's sharp and packs a punch. Ronan is perfect in the role and capture's Hanna's innocence. For something truly unique, you must check out this film. I really dug it!

And look, my movie review even lined up with "H." Cool!

A to Z Challenge - G

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers, many of whom are participating in the Challenge. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...

Garden Full of Lily
Jennie is a gorgeous person inside and out. She’s a Humane Education teacher with a passion for animals, and the Lily in her garden is her dog. Her regular features include the Wednesday Wishes and Friday Fun. Actually, every day is fun with Jennie! Go take a look at what’s growing in her garden today.

Giggles and Guns
Mary has a wonderful sense of humor, layered with compassion and a great storytelling ability. She’ll make you smile with her posts and comments. Mary is just one of those special people we meet on our journey through life. I just adore this lady. And she adores the one-liners, so go leave her a zinger of a comment!

Today is another edition of Fantastic Friday Writers! I invite your to check out my partners - Elizabeth, Anastasia, JD, Deirdra, M. Pax, Jeffrey, Charlene, and Andrew. I’m sure their take on this subject is better than mine!

Genre

This one is easy – my genre is science fiction. My first book was published last fall, and I am currently working on the sequel. (Thanks to the help of some amazing critique partners and test readers!) I also enjoy reading fantasy and thrillers, although not sure if I’m ready to attempt to write in those genres.

But you never know. Ninjas can be sneaky!