Insecure Writer’s Support Group, Heroes and Villains Blogfest, Ninja News, Wednesday Movie Quote, and World Trivia Answers

It’s time for another group posting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group! Time to release our fears to the world – or offer encouragement to those who are feeling neurotic. If you’d like to join us, click on the tab above and sign up. We post the first Wednesday of every month. I encourage everyone to visit at least a dozen new blogs and leave a comment. Your words might be the encouragement someone needs. 

My awesome co-hosts today are Sheena-kay Graham, Suzanne Furness, and Laura Eno. Please be sure to thank them for their time and effort to make all IWSG members feel welcome.

A couple recent posts prompted me to provide a little hope today by debunking some myths.

Got a first manuscript hiding in a drawer that you loved but everyone says those first novels are practice only?

Take it out, dust it off, and go back to the original idea. Maybe in its current form it’s no good, but with a rewrite and a polish, it just might shine. And become something worth publishing.

I know – the original version of CassaStar sat in such a drawer, but with a complete rewrite, it became my first published book.

Think that the mess you produced during NaNo will never see the light of day?

Even if it is a mess, you can restructure. Find the plot holes, get help from critique partners, and edit it up to standards. A publisher might want it.

I know – my second book, CassaFire, was written during NaNo 2010, and my upcoming novel, CassaStorm, was written during June’s BuNo 2012.

Ready to believe in those NaNo and first manuscripts again?

Visit others on the LIST and be encouraged!

Ninja News

Mel at Writings, Musings, and Other Such Nonsense is hosting the Followers Blog Hop. If you are looking for more blog followers, check it out.

Write Club Submissions are open!
Visit DL at Cruising Altitude 2.0 for details on how to enter. He has a panel of great judges lined up for the third Write Club. Oh yeah, and me. (I look so out of place on the list!)

Cover reveal-

Red Threads by Stacey J. Mitchell

Twenty-six-year-old Lily Robinson has her dream job in a museum, a great boyfriend, and is happy with her life – until the day she starts seeing red threads growing out of the chests of those around her…

The release date is June 12, 2013.

Dafeenah at Indie Designz posted a list of Ten Great Blogs for Self-Published Authors.

Diane at Spunk on a Stick’s Tips posted a list of reviewers who review self-published books.

Heroes and Villains Blogfest

Posting a day early, this blogfest is hosted by Jackie at Bouquet of Books and Dani at Entertaining Interests.

Favorite Hero – Colonel Jack O’Neill from Stargate SG1

What’s not to admire? He leads SG1, the first Stargate team. He’s a tough soldier. He’s full of snark. And he always gets his team out of trouble. Jack may not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, but I’d want him guarding my back when I stepped through the Stargate.

Favorite Villain – Top Dollar from The Crow

Top Dollar has power and money. His presence is commanding and full of charisma. He’s snarky, owns a heavy metal club, and would be really interesting to hang out with if not for the fact he’s a homicidal maniac.

Wednesday Movie Quote

This week – dragon movies!

My quote comes from Reign of Fire:

Denton Van Zan – There’s nothing magical about it. They’re made of flesh and blood. You take out their heart you bring down the beast.

In TWO weeks (as I’m not posting next Wednesday) – animal movies.

World Trivia Answers

1 – What drink did the Incas invent? Cocoa
2 – Name either of the countries that are home to the Mayan Pyramids. Mexico and Guatemala
3 – What large tree grows in Yosemite National Park? Giant Sequoias
4 – What body of water is the saltiest in the world? The Dead Sea
5 – Who is buried under Paris’ Arc de Triomphe? The Unknown Soldier 

What’s your writer insecurity today? Ready for Write Club? Find some good links for Indie authors? Who is your favorite hero or villain? Favorite dragon movie quote? And how many trivia answers did you get right?

And the story behind my Cassa series is up today at MJ Joachim’s blog!

Tammy’s Interview Victim, May Monster Madness, Godzilla, Ninja News, Jewel of Shaylar, and Cabbage

When Tammy Theriault invited me to do an interview at her site, I knew it would be different. I knew there was a reason for the survival badge. How weird was it? Come sample the insanity HERE!

Ninja News

Ilima Todd just signed a two-book deal with Shadow Mountain – congratulations!

Mel Chelsey’s book, Adversarius, Shadow of the Rose: Book One, is now available in paperback on Amazon.

Sean McLachlan’s fantasy novella, The Quintessence of Absence, is now available! The 25,000 word story originally appeared in Black Gate magazine. Congratulations, Sean!


Jade Hart’s latest novel, Mirror Amour, is now available. Way to go, Jade!

The Best/Worst Movie Remakes Blogfest is this Friday! Name the best and worst movie remake you’ve ever seen. Sign up HERE.

Jewel of Shaylar

Laura Eno’s Jewel of Shaylar is now available!

Archaeologist David Alexander investigates the cave where his father disappeared and hurtles into another world, one filled with magic and bizarre creatures…

Purchase at: Kindle US, Kindle UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Trade Paperback, and Goodreads.

Laura Eno. Speculative Fiction wordsmith. The secret to her stories? Spread lies, blend in truths, add a pinch of snark and a dash of tears. Escape into her world. She left the porch light on so you could find your way down the rabbit hole. Follow Me: Blog, Facebook, Twitter

May Monster Madness!

Hosted by Annie Walls.
How does May Monster Madness work? Well, it's a blog hop featuring posts about monsters! Anything you can think of as long as it has something to do with monsters... crafts, lists, movies, funnies (a personal favorite)... anything!

I decided to go with my favorite monster as a kid - Godzilla.

Nothing was cooler than the Saturday afternoon monster movie featuring Godzilla. He’s ingrained in my childhood forever. He began as a terrifying, giant monster, and over the years became more of a protector and almost loveable creature. Godzilla changed the way I looked at monsters.

Yes, he was a guy in a rubber suit! But I’ll take a guy in a rubber suit over the monstrosity that was Emmerich and Devlin’s Godzilla. Here’s hoping Gareth Edwards can do better in 2014. (He rocked with 2010’s Monsters.)

And it didn’t hurt that Blue Oyster Cult did a tribute song to Godzilla!



Visit Annie Walls for other participants or to join this blogfest!

Cabbage

This is for Gary:

From Wikipedia

Have you ever been interviewed by Tammy Theriault? Excited about the new releases? Ready for Friday’s blogfest? Picking up Laura’s book? What is your favorite monster? Godzilla fan? And care to comment on the meaning of the cabbage…?

Don’t forget to visit Tammy Theriault!

Gardening Naked with Hart Johnson, 300,000 in Book Sales, IWSG Co-Hosts, and Blogging Questions

Today I have the honor of welcoming a long-time blogger buddy and advocate for Naked World Domination, author Hart Johnson!

Gardening Naked

First, a GIANT thanks to Alex for having me! You're always a rock star!

So... you may or may not be aware that last Saturday was officially International Naked Gardening Day (proof with a full nudity warning). This was most unfortunate timing, and not just because several of my friends got snow that day.

You see... I'm the EMPRESS of naked, yet my second book, The Begonia Bribe, which is spot on with the gardening theme, didn't come out until TUESDAY—Totally missed an opportunity to promote both nakedness AND gardening!!!

But I think we should just declare an entire naked gardening SEASON.

You heard me... Get on out there and bond with nature the way nature intended.

Though to be clear, there are safety allowances where accessories are concerned. Gloves can be essential when dealing with thorns and thistles. And Crocs just make good sense if you have to shovel (save those toes!) Thorns, black widows and under-nail grime need not be your fears. Also, WEAR SUN SCREEN! For pete's sake, your skin hasn't seen the sun for months. Heck, depending on your typical prudery level, some parts may never have seen the sun.

And if you need an inspiring break from all that gardening, I have a book in mind... About a child beauty pageant, a lot of gardening and MURDER...

Hart (aka, Alyse Carlson) writes books from her bathtub and can be found at Confessions of a Watery Tart, on Facebook (author page, profile), Twitter, or Goodreads.

Book links: Amazon, Barnes and Noble

Thanks, Hart! Now, pass the SPF 100...

Ninja News

My awesome co-hosts for the June 5 posting of the IWSG will be Sheena-kay Graham, Suzanne Furness, and Laura Eno!

Want to be a successful Indie author? I know one author who has sold over 10,000 copies of her books, but this figure will knock your socks off. RaShelle Workman has sold over 300,000 copies of her books! Yes, that’s a three with five zeroes. You can visit her Amazon author page HERE to view all of her books. She'll visit here in June to do a guest post and share the secret of her success. RaShelle, you rock!

Today is the last day to post for the A to Z Challenge Reflections. Once you’ve posted yours, be sure to add it to the list HERE.

VikLit’s “Celebrating the Small Things” is today. I’m celebrating a week of normalcy after the A to Z Challenge. (My wife might be celebrating even more.) I’m also celebrating a couple key friendships I’ve made here online. You guys rock.

Blogging Questions

Does it sometimes amuse you what people will comment on? I always try to offer a variety in hopes everyone will find something of interest, but sometimes what people chose to comment on amuses me. Maybe I should post a section of the phone book just to see what people say?

Do you think people shy away from bloggers with large followings? Maybe they are intimidated to either follow or comment? Or they feel they won’t be noticed? I follow back anyone who follows (unless I can’t locate that person’s blog), respond to all comments, and try to comment on new followers’ blogs when possible.

Will you be gardening naked? Picked up Hart’s book? In awe of 300,000 books sold? (I am!) And what are your answers to the blogging questions?

Heading out for more fun this weekend – everyone enjoy!

Movie Blogfest Wrap-up, Ninja News, Covers, Wednesday Movie Quote, and Movie Reviews

Top Ten Movie Countdown Blogfest Wrap-up

Whoa! One of the most successful blogfests ever – 183 participants! Lots of great movies listed. If you want to continue browsing for movie suggestions, the list is HERE and all links go straight to the post. (Yes, I’m anal and took the time to do that.) Great turnout and lots of comments. Thanks to all who visited - I had almost 240 comments!

Ten movies was difficult, and I was reminded of a few that should’ve made my list – The Usual Suspects, The Princess Bride, and John Carter. (And since I visited everyone - most popular was LOTR, Avengers, and The Princess Bride.)

Did anyone visit all of the participants? I did! And special thanks to Jeremy, David, and Mark who also visited a ton of folks.

Now, who’s ready for movie night?

Ninja News

Laura Eno just found out that her book, Immortal Desires, has been nominated for Best Romance – Paranormal Romance 2012 by The Romance Reviews. Voting is now open HERE. Congratulations, Laura!

The Starcraft II: Heart of the Swarm Expansion Set arrived Monday. I’ve not had time to play it much, but so far it is awesome! Yes, like I need another time suck in my life…

Cover Reveals!

First one was supposed to go up Monday – my apologies, Christine!

1305 & 1306 - The Oracle and The Vampire
The 13th Floor series, #5
By Christine Rains
Release date: May 13th, 2013

Eye of the Soul
Pool of Souls, Book One
By Terri Rochenski

Ocean Slays
Book Two of Ocean Breeze
By Jade Hart
Release date: May 2013


Congratulations, ladies!

Wednesday Movie Quote

This week’s theme – Westerns.

My choices come from Tombstone, said by Doc Holiday –

“I’m your huckleberry.”

“It’s true, you are a good woman. Then again, you may be the antichrist.”

Next week’s movie quote theme – horror.

Movie Reviews

Resident Evil: Retribution
Still directed by Anderson and staring Milla Jovovich, the look and feel of the series remains intact. However, it just might be running out of steam.
Not much of a plot. Does it need one? Well, not really. The storyline just rolls into a new, unbelievable setting and sets it up for another movie.
I knew what I was getting and was mildly entertained.
And my wife wants Milla’s personal trainer.

Dark Shadows
Directed by Tim Burton and staring Johnny Depp. Of course!
Based on an old soap opera, the film follows cursed vampire Barnabas Collins' return to the family after years of imprisonment.
This film was odd. And overall, not very good. Instead of endearing quirkiness, it’s more like dysfunctional unease. This time Burton and Depp did not gel well for a good movie. Glad I skipped it in the theater.

Did you find some new films to watch on Monday? Vote for Laura? Pick up the new Starcraft? Dig the covers? What’s your favorite Western movie quote? And have you seen either Dark Shadows or the latest Resident Evil?

National Wormhole Day! And Ninja News, Wednesday Movie Quote, and Music Trivia

Ninja News

Angela Brown is holding a reader appreciation giveaway, which includes Amazon gift cards. See her site for details.

DL Hammons of Cruising Altitude has launched Blog Blitz, a group that will shout out special and deserving blogs throughout the year. Sign up now!

And this is just too awesome! Deniz Bevan made a scarf for Mini-Alex!! Is that not really sweet? As soon as it arrives, I’ll take a picture of Mini-Alex sporting his styling new scarf. Thanks, Deniz – you rock!

Wednesday Movie Quote!

Today it’s computer animated films!



My choice is from Rango:

“I think the metaphor broke my spleen.”

Next week – westerns!

Rock Music Trivia!

Album titles – name the band:



1 – Black Clouds & Silver Linings (2009)

2 – Superunknown (1994)

3 – Cowboys From Hell (1990)

4 – Countdown to Extinction (1992)

5 – The Heart of Everything (2007)

National Wormhole Day Blogfest!

Hosted by Stephen Tremp, Laura Eno, LG Smith.
 
What would you do or where would you go if you could traverse a wormhole through space or time just once? One safe round trip passage. In 100 words more or less, what you would do if you had a two-way ticket to traverse a wormhole?

Where would I go? Back thirty years so I could practice with guitar master Joe Satriani and be really good now? (Rock star might be too much.) Back two thousand years and meet Jesus? (Naw, I’ll see him in fifty years or so.) Maybe forward? I know - teleportation! I’ll go forward and bring back a teleporter. Then I can teleport my butt anywhere. Travel the world. Travel the universe. Go to the Pegasus Galaxy and help John Sheppard's team. Avoid the commute to work. I’m sold! The Ninja Captain is now free to move about the galaxy…

Anyone want to go for a ride?

Catch some good news? What’s your favorite animated film quote? Know any of the trivia? And if you could jump in that wormhole, where would you go?

Big Thanks, Ninja News, Jewel of Shaylor Cover Reveal, and a Neumarian Uprising!

A huge thanks to everyone who helped with my cover reveal of CassaStorm last Friday – and those who are posting it this week! I was truly overwhelmed. I’d hoped that maybe twenty or thirty people might help, but over a hundred posted for me. Thank you! Yes, I am very excited about the cover – best one yet. Special thanks to Carrie Butler who made the awesome graphic of all three of my books!

Ninja News

Misha Gericke announced the nominations for the Paying it Forward Awards – thanks to whoever nominated me for two categories! Voting is open until February 28. Good to luck to everyone.

Livia gave me the Very Inspiring Blogger Award. Thank you Livia! I’m supposed to tell you seven things, but since that would be boring, I’ll just tell you one – I hate Brussels Sprouts.

Passing it on to three bloggers who inspire me:
Robin at Your Daily Dose
ML Swift
Mark at Left and Write

Laura Bambrey’s new book, Yes No Maybe, is available now! Congratulations, Laura.

Hildie McQueen’s Street Team, McQueen’s Moonlighters, is up and running! What is a Street Team? “A street team are a group of people that enjoy a specific author’s books and assists in promoting the author by giving out book cover cards, pens, buttons and other promotional items for the author.” Check out her site for details.

Nigel Mitchell just announced that TOONS is now live. He’s released Part 1 (Bad Toon Rising) and Part 2 (Get Lucky) of the series. Congratulations, Nigel!

Roland Yeomans is the talented author behind almost two dozen books – and this month, the proceeds from sales of his books go to the Salvation Army. If you’ve never purchased one of Roland’s books and experienced his rich writing, February is the month to do so!

Cover Reveal!

Jewel of Shaylar by Laura Eno

Archaeologist David Alexander investigates the cave where his father disappeared and hurtles into another world, one filled with magic and bizarre creatures. The mad ravings in his father's journals of icemen and dragons may not be fantasies after all.
Convinced his father may still be alive, David begins a treacherous journey to find him and discover a way home. Along the way, he encounters a few unlikely friends. A Dreean warrior, a beautiful thief and a satyr join him as he searches.
David's arrival into this new world sets off an explosive chain reaction of events. Faced with powerful adversaries and few clues, he may not get the chance to rescue his father before disaster strikes, condemning both of them to death. Or worse.

Find Laura: Website, Blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

Neumarian Uprising!

We need your help! Thanks to our spy, Ciara Knight, we are able to communicate with you today via blogs, Facebook, Twitter and other social media.

The Neumarian uprising has begun. We are fighting for freedom and equality for all, but we need your help. Ciara informed us that you might want to know more about the uprising and why we ask you to risk your lives for our cause. To answer these questions I’ve agreed to let Ciara tell my sister’s, Raeth’s, story about her captivity. It will be free for you on a site called Amazon until March 1, 2013.

Our spies have told us this will help spread the word and find more recruits for our rebellion against the tyrannical queen. You can help by simply downloading a free copy of Weighted, a prequel to the Neumarian Chronicles. If you are intrigued and wish to follow our uprising, Escapement, book I of The Neumarian Chronicles, will be available for only $2.99 until March 1, 2013.

Escapement, is told by Princess Semara. Don’t hold the fact Semara is a princess against her like I did, there is more to her than you can possibly imagine.

Here is a brief explanation of her telling of our uprising:
Ten years after the great war of 2185 the queen’s reign is threatened by uprisings and fear. In celebration of my sixteenth birthday it is my duty as princess to sacrifice a slave to be initiated into the ruling council, solidifying my mother’s empire. When my own erratic powers surface I’m captured and tried for treason. Slaves hate me, my mother wants me executed, and my only chance of survival rests in the hands of a young man, Ryder Arteres, whose sister I sentenced to death.

What people are saying about Escapement:

“A heady mix of action adventure and steampunk -- leavened with a dash of romance -- ESCAPEMENT offers up its fair share of thrills, horrors and heart-pounding moments. A strong start to a captivating new series.” - Jana Oliver, author of The Demon Trapper's Daughter

“A riveting tale of justice, mercy, honor and love. Take a deep breath and hold on, because you'll be turning the pages of Escapement quickly. Three unlikely comrades, Princess Semara, Ryder, and his sister Raeth, embark on a journey that will alter their lives forever. The beautiful love story nestled into these action-packed scenes will make you sigh and remember why you love to love. After reading the prequel Weighted, I knew this story would be amazing, and it was. Ciara Knight truly has a gift for creating awesome worlds and characters you won't forget.” -Lindi Peterson--Award winning author of Summer's Song.

“Betrayal, secrets, and a rebellion send readers on a grand adventure, caught in the plight to discover Semara’s gifts and purpose.” -Alex J Cavanaugh, author of Amazon best sellers CassaStar and CassaFire

“The most unmissable series ever! I couldn't stop reading, the action and romance too breathtaking to break the spell!” -ARC review by Sudah on Goodreads

"A courageous heart-stopping journey by young people to save their kind." -Hildie McQueen, bestselling author of Where the Four Winds Collide

If you’d like to see a peak into our world, please view this short clip on YouTube.

If you are now ready to join our fight, please add Escapement to your TBR shelf on Goodreads. Shout out on all your social media sites, and tell everyone you know to stand up and fight.
Be Bold.
Be Brave.
Be Free.
In the name of the rebellion,
Ryder Arteres

Visit Ciara Knight to enter the giveaway.

Thanks again and hope everyone liked the cover for CassaStorm. Picking up some new books? Voting for Paying it Forward or joining the Street Team? Ready for Laura Eno’s new book? And are you part of the Neumarian uprising?

Mistress Snark, Ninja News, Best Movies of 2012, and Thoughts on 2012-2013

Tuesday I was a guest of Laura Eno and Mistress Snark. If you missed the exchange (and my escape) visit Laura’s SITE. (Just don’t drink the punch…)

Ninja News

This will be my last post of the year. I’m taking some time off to celebrate Christmas and will return on January 2, 2013 for the next posting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. Your co-hosts will be Jamie Gibbs from Mithril Wisdom and Tyrean Martinson. But don’t worry – the Ninja will be lurking…

The final installment of Michael Abayomi’s series, Guardians and the Lost Paradise, is finally available! You can pick up The Other Side at Amazon or buy all six books in a bundle HERE. Congratulations, Michael!!

And Mini Alex took a road trip! Elise took him with her to Paris and Mini Alex ended up in several photographs. Thanks, Elise! Poor little dude will be bored with my place…

Favorite Movies of 2012

Thought I’d do a roundup of my favorite movies of the year, even though Tarantino’s Django Unchained isn’t out yet. These are the films I enjoyed in 2012:

#9 – The Cabin in the Woods – Joss Whedon and a bat-shit crazy ending. It turned the horror genre on its head.

#8 - The Amazing Spiderman – No, we didn’t need a reboot this soon, but I enjoyed this version far more than Sam Raimi’s movies. Spiderman had snark!

#7 – The Hobbit – Fun, beautiful visuals, and charming. It was a comfortable and familiar place I didn’t want to leave.

#6 – Argo – Incredibly well acted and tense! And best unofficial tagline of the year. (If you’ve seen it, you know what I’m talking about.)

#5 – Lincoln – Powerful and riveting. Day-Lewis made me believe he was Lincoln.

#4 – The Dark Knight Rises – A little dark but a powerful ending to the trilogy. Yes, I am a DC geek and Christopher Nolan fanboy. So sue me.

#3 - John Carter – This is what a space opera/adventure is supposed to be! Epic. (And yes, I really wish I’d written it.)

#2 – Looper – Highly underrated small-scale science fiction film Great performances and second in plot twists only to Memento.

#1 – The Avengers – Best superhero film EVER. Joss Whedon hit this one out of the park.

And I wanted to note a couple other films:

Dumbest fun movie – Battleship – Yup, and just as dumb but fun the second time. Maybe even more so. And the Battleship references are hysterical.

Biggest Disappointment – Prometheus – The more I thought about it, the more I didn’t like it. The Swiss cheese of movie plots.

Worst movie – Lockout – Save yourself and skip this film! Bad on every level except for Guy Pearce. Dude, you used to do great films like Memento and L.A. Confidential! What happened?

Did you see any memorable films this year?

Thoughts on 2012/2013

As we close out 2012, I have to say this has been one heck of a year! Everything about it was amazing. On the book front, my second book came out, I wrote the third book, and the first two both became Amazon Best Sellers. Online the IWSG continues to rock, I got to host the A to Z Challenge again, hosted some blogfests, and even WAS a blogfest. (Still singed, but I lived.) And on the home front I’m playing in a band and even got to take some real vacations this year.

Next year of course will be more awesome IWSG posts, the fourth A to Z Challenge, and of course the third and final book, CassaStorm, in September.

The final book? I’m not sure. Toying with the idea of co-writing a book with another author. Also thinking that I will miss the Cassan universe. I think three books is good though. Besides, since I keep jumping ahead twenty years, Byron will soon be a hundred, and I don’t think he’ll be all that exciting at that point.

But whether I continue writing or choose to focus on my guitar playing, I still intend to remain here for you guys. I’ve made so many awesome friends and found a tremendous community online. I want to continue to serve you and be a blessing! Thanks for making this year awesome. You guys rock!

Ready to kick off 2013 with the IWSG? Did you see Mini Alex in Paris? How was your 2012 and what are your plans for 2013? And what were some of your favorite movies this year?

Everyone have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Ali Cross is Destined, Ninja News, and The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Review

Today I have the honor of hosting the Ninja Master herself, Ali Cross! She just released the third book in her Desolation series, Destined.

It's always a good day to visit Alex's blog but it's fan-freakin'-tastic when you get to hijack it! Thanks Alex for being such a softie and letting me take over for the day! I'm here because my third book just came out! It's the last in a trilogy and it's landed me in a weird place.

It's sort of like riding a see-saw. Sometimes I'm up. Sometimes I'm down.

Sometimes I think, "Yeah! I'm done writing Desi's story!"

And other times I think, "I'm totally gonna write another Desi book!"

But mostly I think, "I did it!"

Signing on for a multi-book deal (doesn't matter if you're independently or traditionally published) is a big commitment. I mean, who wants to let their readers down? You've got to finish the story. And sometimes it's no easy task ~ especially when you've got other stories beating down your mental door insisting that you write them.

If you're currently stuck in the muck, I don't have any magic words to help get you through. All I can say is, strap yourself in and get ready for the ride of your life (up, down, all around). And when you're done (because you will finish!) we can go for a ride together and get our rock on.

Don't mind me if I do a little head-banging while I'm waiting. No matter what Desi says,
I TOTALLY WIN!!

Check me (er, Desi) out! 

This is the last (huzzah!) book in the Desolation Trilogy (notice how I said TRILOGY, and not SERIES like I used to? Hey, I make no promises). You can learn more about the series by going to the site, to Goodreads, or to Amazon.

Thanks again for letting me hang out here today, Alex! You're the bestest!

Ali Cross is the sensei of the writer's dojo where she holds a black belt in awesome. She lives in Utah with her kickin' husband, two sparring sons, one ninja cat, two sumo dogs and four zen turtles. 

Links: Blog | Facebook | Twitter

Ninja News

I’m a guest of Laura Eno and Miss Snark! See how I respond to the strange questions and the stuff floating in Miss Snark’s punch.

Huntress at Spirit Called just signed with Musa Publishing, a small pub in Ohio, for her urban fantasy, The Magic Withheld. Congratulations, Huntress!

Chuck at Apocalypse Now and Shannon at The Warrior Muse are hosting a Choose Your Own Apocalypse Blogfest this Friday.

Losing Hope, the sequel to Losing Beauty by Johanna Garth, is available now, You can purchase it at Barnes and Noble and Amazon. Congratulations, Johanna!

Jack Lewis Baillot of However Improbable just released her first book – Haphazardly Improbable. Congratulations, Miss Jack! Buy it now at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Andrew Leon has several books available for free today! Visit Amazon for the full list.

Healing Summer by Elizabeth Seckman is now available!
Find the author and the book at her blog, on Amazon, and on Facebook.

Movie Review

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
Directed by Peter Jackson, it’s another great entry in the Middle Earth series.
Don’t go into it thinking you’re going to see another LOTR film though. The Hobbit is a very different story and moves at a leisurely pace. The movie is lighter and more whimsical.
Visually it’s stunning. Since we’re now familiar with Middle Earth, some of the ‘wow’ factor is gone, but the scenery and action scenes are still amazing. There’s a bit of backstory in the beginning and Jackson draws upon the appendixes to flesh out other scenes. We get to see Gandalf do more magic as well.
Martin Freeman is perfect in the role of Bilbo, and Richard Armitage does a strong turn as Thorin.
Overall, the movie is a little too long, but I was never bored. (I would recommend avoiding the giant sized drink.)
When it shines though, the film really shines! Looking forward to the second movie next December.

Any questions for Ali? Do you follow her or the Dojo? Excited about the new releases? Ready to celebrate the apocalypse this Friday? And did anyone else see the Hobbit?

Be sure to visit Laura Eno and Miss Snark!

Metal & Science Fiction, Ninja News, Wish The Awakening, Movie Review, and the Next Great Blogfest!

Today I am visiting Jamie at Mithril Wisdom! Jamie has been a special blogger buddy since the first A to Z Challenge. His theme for this past Challenge was fantasy metal. Well, my guest post today is about science fiction metal! If you like science fiction or rock music, visit Mithril Wisdom for the best of both worlds. There may be movie-music trivia involved...

Ninja News

Thanks for all the kind words you guys left on Friday’s POST! Nancy was very happy to see so much support for her new book, The Mistaken, and I was grateful for the comments regarding the two-year anniversary of CassaStar’s release. You guys rock!

Tara Tyler just signed a book deal with Curiosity Quills – congratulations, Tara!

Wish, The Awakening

The ever-awesome Laura Eno has a new book!

Wish, The Awakening – by Laura Eno
YA dark fantasy

Most residents of Pine Hill shy away from seventeen-year-old Lelah without knowing why. It's the Djinn magic surging through her blood. She lives in a world where wishes are really curses, dark power meant to twist and deceive in unimaginable ways. When a fit of temper exposes Lelah for what she really is, she must flee to a sanctuary only whispered about, before her family is exposed and enslaved by their ancient enemy. What she discovers is a treacherous path filled with power, lies, and betrayal – a path that's destined to ensnare her and destroy a civilization.

Purchase it in print at Amazon and as an eBook at Amazon US, Amazon UK, Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords.

About the Author:
Laura Eno lives in Florida with a very tolerant husband, three skulking cats and two absurdly happy dogs. After spending years immersed in college but never figuring out what she wanted to be when she grew up, she now writes novels late at night with the help of muses from the underworld. And, no, she still hasn't grown up but that's okay.

Laura, we hope you don’t ever grow up!

Movie Review

The Hunger Games
Finally watched this one on NetFlix. The storyline borrows from Battle Royale (sans extreme violence and action) and The Running Man (sans extreme violence and action and the cheesy fun factor.) I’ve not read the books, but I can understand the appeal of a strong female heroine. Don’t hate me, but sorry, I was a little bored watching this film. Maybe I missed something…

The Next Great Blogfest – Are You Ready?

I Miss You Blogfest
November 16 2012
Hosted by Andrew Leon, Matthew MacNish, and Alex J. Cavanaugh

The bloggers we really miss…
and the ones we would really miss!

Do you have a couple blogger buddies who aren’t posting as often? Those who’ve pulled back and seem absent from the blogging world? Do you have blogger buddies you are grateful they are still around and would miss if they vanished? Now is your chance to show your appreciation and spotlight them!

On November 16, list one to three bloggers you really miss and one to three bloggers you would miss if they stopped blogging. Then go leave a comment on those blogs.

Our blogger friends are special – time to let them know!

Sign up below:



Did you pick up Nancy’s book? Excited for Tara? Picking up Laura’s book? And are you ready for a blogfest where we can show our blogging buddies how much we appreciate them?

Don’t forget to visit Mithril Wisdom!
 
And I may not be posting Wednesday... Just so you know.

What is Blogging Success, Ninja News, Dredd Movie Review, Music Trivia Answers, and the Did I Notice Your Book Blogfest!

Today I have a guest post with the wonderful Karen Lange at Write Now. I answer the question – what is blogging success? Please visit Karen today for my take on success in the blogging world.

Ninja News

Christine Rains is holding a birthday bash and giveaway on October 5 – you don’t want to miss it.

Laura Barnes got an agent – congratulations, Laura! AND she got a request from a publisher that she was able to forward to her new agent. How cool is that/?

The Best of Vine Leaves Literary Journal, edited by Jessica Bell and Dawn Ius, is now available on Goodreads!

Jeremy at Retro-Zombie is nearing 1500 posts and 500 followers and he’s hosting a giveaway to celebrate! Visit Jeremy’s site for details.

EJ Wesley is celebrating the release of his book, Blood Fugue, with the Bury the Hatchet Blogfest. Lots of amazing prizes! Runs until October 19. Congratulations on the new book, EJ.

Laura Eno’s new book, Wish, comes out next month. If you would like to help with her book launch, see her site for details. Congratulations, Laura!

Movie Review

Dredd

Forget that awful Stallone version! This film matches the feel of the comic book – it’s gritty, dark, violent, and bloody.
Dredd takes on a rookie with psychic abilities and their first assignment finds them trapped in a massive housing unit and at the mercy of gang leader Ma-Ma. (And they managed to make the lovely Lena Headey look skanky and vile.)
The visuals are very unique – colorful, in depth, and with lots of slow motion action.
The director pulls no punches with the violence. You will witness people die in a truly unique manner.
This movie isn’t for everyone. But if you enjoy the comic Dredd or science fiction shoot-em-ups and great special effects, then Dredd is your film.

Music Trivia Answers

Remakes – name the song:
1 – In 1995 Dream Theater remade this song by Elton John – Love Lies Bleeding
2 – In 1998 Orgy remade this song by New Order – Blue Monday
3 – 2002 by Shadows Fall, 2012 by Arjen Lucassen, and 2007 by Queesnryche saw the remake of this Pink Floyd song – Welcome to the Machine
4 – In 1999 Coal Chamber remade this song by Peter Gabriel – Shock the Monkey
5 – In 1996 White Zombie remade this song by KC and the Sunshine Band – I’m Your Boogieman

Did I Notice Your Book?

The brain child of one awesome Ciara Knight! (With the Ninja along for the ride as co-host.) Based on her weekly feature that began last year. (And CassaStar was the first book!)

The Ninjas and Knights are joining forces!

Did I Notice Your Book Blogfest, October 17, 2012
Post about a book you’ve noticed.

You can choose a book that you’ve read, something you saw on a blog or social media site, Goodreads, or a sales website. Anything that caught your eye because of a great cover, blurb or reviews, but DON’T tell the author that their book has been noticed. Instead, shout out on social media sites, and encourage others to do the same, until the author finds his/her book.

Leave a blog comment at Ninja Captain Alex or Ciara Knight when the author finds their book.

Only two rules:
1) You can’t post about your own book.
2) The book shouldn’t be on the New York Times or USA Today bestseller list. This is your chance to shout out about a book that might not have been noticed by others.

Let’s blow up the blogsphere with great new reads!

Sign up below!



Excited about the contests and news? Anyone else see Dredd? Get any of the trivia right? (Kathleen got all of them!) And are you signing up for the awesome new blogfest?

Don’t forget to visit Karen for my take on blogging success!