The Martian Reviewed, Godzilla and King Kong, America’s Got Talent, Iron Maiden and Muse Album Reviews, and Ninja News!

Entertainment News

The upcoming film, The Martian, was just reviewed at the Toronto International Film Festival.
According to JoBlo’s site -
As such, The Martian really is terrific family entertainment. There's plenty of action – including excellent use of 3D and tons of humor, but the absolute best thing is how inspiring a tale it winds up being. It's nice to see a big studio flick that aims for optimism and certainly it feels like a crowd-pleasing hit waiting to happen. Even if you're burnt out on space movies – this is a trip to Mars well-worth taking.
That’s good to know!

Caught this on several sites, including Deadline. Godzilla and King Kong might appear in a movie together.
Blastr had this to say -
Studio shake-up bringing Godzilla and King Kong together for eventual face off According to the report, the eventual team-up film will follow after Godzilla 2 and Skull Island, and everyone involved is working quickly to lock up all the necessary rights and contracts. Agreements are also being worked up with Japan-based Toho, rightsholder for Godzilla. For what it’s worth, Skull Island is set to open in March 2017 and Godzilla 2 is slated for July 2018. Following that trend, we’d imagine Godzilla vs. King Kong (or whatever they call it) will hit the big screen around 2019(?)
My thoughts?
First, they talk as if this will be a first. Um, anyone else remember 1962’s King Kong vs. Godzilla? (Note the image there.)
Second, it should be a short film. Godzilla has atomic breath. Gorilla flambé in three, two, one…

America’s Got Talent
The show is heading into the final week of its tenth season. What’s amazing is there are six comedian and/or magicians remaining out of ten acts. Obviously, people are wanting to laugh more than anything.
While I’m still surprised Siro-A didn’t make the final cut, I’m placing my bets on Paul Zerdin, the ventriloquist. The dude is talented and hilariously funny!

Face Off
In its ninth season, Face Off is nearing the halfway point. If you’ve never watched an episode, check it out at least once. It’s fascinating how the contestants go from concept to finished creation in just three days.
Hard to tell who will win this one, as none of the contestants really stand out yet…

Music Reviews

Iron Maiden – The Book of Souls
Whoever thought Iron Maiden wasn’t relevant anymore hasn’t heard this new album. These guys have released one of their best albums in the twilight of their career.
There are many stand out tracks, including Speed of Light, The Great Unknown, and Tears of a Clown. (The last one is about Robin Williams and those who suffer from depression.)
If you don’t like Maiden, this won’t change your mind. If you do like Maiden, then rock on!

Muse – Drones
Here’s a band that I’ve always dug, but their pop and electronic influences never hooked me enough to buy an album. Drones definitely changed that for me.
Whatever you thought of Muse in the past, this is a rock album. Produced by the great Mutt Lang, this album has influences from Radiohead, Queen, Pink Floyd, and about a hundred other bands, all blended together to make a great record.
Check it out!

Ninja News

At the Insecure Writer’s Support Group site today, we are honored to have special guest, New York Times best-selling author, Ruth Harris! She’s discussing The Creative Habit, so stop by.

Today’s Themes That Rocked the Challenge feature at the A to Z Blog is on Elizabeth Mueller and her art, flower, and My Little Pony theme. Those three things together? You bet – go check it out.

If you missed it, Shady Dell posted Shawn and Gus from Psych competing in Rock Jeopardy – with Alex J. Cavanaugh Trebek hosting. And it’s hilarious!

Don’t forget the IWSG Anthology Contest is open until November 1! The theme is Alternate History/Parallel Universe and any member of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group is encouraged to enter – blogging (must post for the IWSG at least once in September or October) or Facebook member. Winners will be published in a royalty-paying anthology next year.

I’ve been asked to contribute to an anthology with the theme of ‘turning points.’ Still working on an idea and hope to plot it and begin writing by next weekend. Yeah, wish me luck…

And those of you who’ve read Dragon of the Stars, don’t forget the follow-up short story, Dragon’s Destiny, is yours for free. Just email me and tell me what happens to Aden at the then of Dragon of the Stars and which eBook version you need – ePub, Mobi, or a PDF.

Awesome new release!
The Amaranthine by Murees Dupé
Find it on Amazon (paperback), Amazon Kindle, iTunes, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Scribed, Inktera, Oyster, Tolino, and Goodreads

The Affected BOGO is Upon Us…
Author Randi Lee is running a buy one, get one promotion for two of her books: purchase a copy of Randi Lee’s “Affected” between September 14—22, 2015 and receive a free eBook version of “Snap! A Quite Quick Collection.” To receive your free eBook, e-mail a copy of your receipt for the purchase of “Affected” to: randi.leeATmail.com.
Find Affected on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Powell’s, and Kobo

Anyone excited to see The Martian this fall? Think Godzilla vs. King Kong is a good idea? Watching Face Off? Fan of either Maiden or Muse? Entering the anthology contest? Read Dragon of the Stars yet? See a book you want? And who’s your favorite on America’s Got Talent…?

Ninja News, Movie Trivia Answers, and This Year’s YOU ROCK Award Recipients!

That’s right – time for the fourth annual YOU ROCK awards!

But first…

Ninja News

Thrill of it all Blogfest
Hosted by Tara Tyler, who is celebrating her upcoming book, Pop Travel, and Heather Gardner, celebrating her newly released book, Maguire’s Corner.
“On June 24th, share a big thrill with us to be entered into The Thrill of it All blogfest contest! We will judge the biggest thrills and give out some thrilling prizes. Entries may be real or fiction.”

The 3-Ups-Blog Hop, hosted by Randi Lee at The Emotional Process of Writing a Novel, is in full swing right now.
My assignment – author Diane Carlisle.
This was the first time I’ve met Diane and here’s what I discovered that’s cool about her:
1-UP – She offers a lot of great writing tips
2-UP – She has a forum on her blog and welcomes discussions, news, and stories.
3-UP – She’s involved in the writing community!

VikLit’s “Celebrating the Small Things” is today. I’m celebrating a three day weekend, taking off from work early again to see a movie (Fast and Furious 6), and the joy of friendship with those listed below. What are you celebrating?

Movie Trivia Answers

1 – Goodfellas – 1990 – Martin Scorsese
2 – Empire of the Sun – 1987 – Steven Spielberg
3 – The Fifth Element – 1997 – Luc Besson
4 – Unforgiven – 1992 – Clint Eastwood
5 – Contact – 1997 – Robert Zemeckis

The YOU ROCK Award!

Time to pass out the fourth annual YOU ROCK Award. Every year it becomes more difficult! I could easily give it to dozens of people. But I keep it to four to seven special recipients, people who have really touched my heart. And this year the award is personalized! All recipients past and present will receive a personalized badge.

Past recipients include: Jeffrey Beesler at World of the Scribe, Gail at At The Farm, Rusty Webb at The Blutonian Death Egg, Chuck at Apocalypse Now, George at CineMarvellous, Lee at Tossing it Out, Yvonne Lewis at The Written Word, RaShelle Workman at A No. 2 Pencil Stat, Hannah at The Write Mood, Jeremy at Retro Z’s, Matthew at The QQQE, Old Kitty at Ten Lives and Second Chances, Ella at Ella’s Edge, M Pax, Roland Yeomans at Writing in the Crosshairs, and Melissa Bradley at Melissa’s Imaginarium.

I know everyone likes to skim, but I hope you will take a moment to read about these amazing people.

This year’s truly rockin’ cool bloggers:

Robyn at Life By Chocolate
I met Robyn three years ago when some of us were planning a group blog. We never could agree on a name (I think at one point it was One Cool Chick and Seven Dumb Guys) and eventually it fell apart. I wasn’t quite sure what to think of Robyn at first, but once the joint blog fell through, I finally got a chance to know her. And in her I found one of the most witty, charming, and delightful woman I’ve ever met. She is just a joy and I've treasure our exchanges over the years. She’s also been in the hospital this week, so I hope this brings a smile to her face today. Robyn, I adore you – you rock!

Lynda Young
I met Lynda about three years ago and knew at once she was a kindred spirit. A fellow writer and Christian, she possesses a true joy and peace. Much to my amazement, I discovered we shared the same tastes in in all things geek. Lynda is my geek sister and twin, and our lives mirror many of the same experiences and values. She is a true friend, stable and supportive. Lynda, I appreciate you more than you know – you rock!

Michael Di Gesu at In Time
Dedicated, expressive, and compassionate are the first words that come to mind when I think of Michael. That he cares so much for others is reflected in his posts, whether it’s highlighting a friend’s book or taking about earthly angels. He possesses tenacity and drive in all things he does. And it’s this genuine heart and spirit that make you such an amazing friend. Michael – you rock!

Heather at The Waiting is the Hardest Part
My posts are not complete until Heather has left one of her perky and thoughtful comments. It’s difficult to convey emotion online, but a big smile comes through in everything she writes. She has a great sense of humor (the woman carries a gnome around, taking pictures!) and her bubbling personality shines in Stormy. But it is you Heather who’s the great friend, and you rise to the occasion every time. I can always count on you. Heather – you rock!

Stephen Tremp
One of my very first followers, Stephen has always been there. He is consistent and persistent in everything he does. He’s very supportive, and not afraid to jump into any project if it benefits others. And when the world falls apart, he digs in his heels, offers a smile, and says “We’re going through!” Stephen, I really admire that in you. Thanks for the many years of friendship. Stephen – you rock!

Al at Father Dragon Writes
Last but not least is Al. Usually it takes years to build a solid friendship, but once in a while you meet someone so real and true that it happens overnight. Al is the epitome of strength, wisdom, and commitment. His genuine heart is indeed a dragon’s heart. Some days he struggles far more than most realize, but Al’s good for his word and will always come through for his friends. He’s trusting to a fault. (And after the clone machine incident with his dwarves, he’ll probably never loan them to me again!) Al, you are that friend that never leaves our side, even when it gets ugly, and I’m honored to know you. From one Alex to another – you rock!

Thanks so much, guys! Your awards will be emailed to you later today.

Joining either bloghop? Get any of the trivia right? Who’s seeing Fast and Furious 6 this weekend? Follow these amazing, rocking bloggers? And who would YOU nominate for the YOU ROCK Award?

Since Monday is a holiday, I am taking the day off!! I will be back on Wednesday for the Get Healthy Bloghop.

Carol Kilgore Entertains the Ninja Army, Star Trek Into Darkness Review, and Ninja News

Today I have the wonderful Carol Kilgore visiting the Ninja Army!

Thanks for hosting me, Alex. Your blog is such fun!

This visit was initially going to be part of my early April blog tour for Solomon’s Compass, but with scheduling issues and the A to Z, that didn’t happen. So I’m going to pretend it’s still part of the tour and tell you about my new book.

Do you like strong female protagonists? A sexy hero? Sidekicks?
Taylor Campbell – Xena Warrior Princess of the U.S. Coast Guard
Jake Solomon – Former Navy SEAL now working for a global security firm
Dan Blair – Antique dealer and gallery owner
Kelly Wetmore – Uber computer geek

A quest to find buried treasure?
Taylor was certain the buried treasure was all in Uncle Randy’s dementia-riddled mind. The final words of his last email to her were “tell no one.” She had promised to honor his wishes, and a promise was a promise. She was so screwed.

How about a present-day mystery with its origins tied to an incident that occurred in Bangkok during the Vietnam Era?
The Beginning—Summer, 1970: The Patpong bargirl tapped his shoulder. “You go buy my friend drink.” She pointed toward the end of the noisy bar as she wrapped her other arm around Ham Norberg’s neck and let her fingers play with the short hair at the back of his head.

The story is set on the South Texas Gulf Coast, and features a cast of characters that one reviewer says “have the easy familiarity of characters created by Nora Roberts.” I’ll be forever grateful for such a fantastic comment.

If you visited me during the A to Z, you met the characters, visited the places, and caught a glimpse or two of the story.

I hope you’ll give the book a try.

You can find Solomon’s Compass on my author page at Amazon, along with links to everyplace I am on the web, and read the first pages using the Look Inside feature HERE.

Also, Solomon’s Compass is need of a little lovin’ on Goodreads, and I’d appreciate your adding it to your shelves.

Carol Kilgore is an award-winning author with several short stories, essays, and articles to her credit. Solomon’s Compass is her second novel, a blend of mystery, suspense, and romance she calls Crime Fiction with a Kiss. Carol and her Coast Guard husband live in San Antonio, Texas, with two herding dogs whose mission is to keep them safe from all danger, real or imagined.

Ninja News

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Best/Worst Movie Remakes Blogfest! All links on the list go directly to the person’s post, so feel free to continue to explore. Special thanks to my co-hosts, Stephen, Livia, and Al.

Ali Cross just released The Seer (Desolation Diaries #2) – congratulations, Ali!


Randi Lee is putting together a 3-Ups Bloghop. She says it will work like this: Each blogger will pick the blogger listed below them, visit his or her site, read a post or two, and then tell them three things they like about the person or his or her blog. Easy enough, right? And how good will you feel after making someone else’s day? I reckon pretty darn good. Visit her site for details.

Movie Review

Star Trek Into Darkness
One word – awesome!
The reboot has come into its own now. Into Darkness is even better than the first film. It’s non-stop story and action, with a good dose of humor thrown in. It’s as if the movie is winking at the audience and never takes itself too seriously.
The effects are stunning and the 3D very immersive.
The film is just a lot of fun. Highly recommended and better than Iron Man III! Can’t wait for the next Star Trek movie.
SPOILER – Stop reading now if you don’t want to know! This movie echoes the second Star Trek movie because we get Khan again. (And we are introduced to Dr. Carol Marcus.) There are similarities and yet this film goes in its own direction.

Have you picked up Solomon’s Compass yet? Did you have fun with the blogfest? And who else saw Star Trek this weekend?

A to Z Challenge – Serenity and Stop the World, Plus Ninja News and Challenge Reflections Post

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!

Serenity

It brought closure to the series Firefly. (And yes I could go on a tirade about FOX cancelling the show way too soon.) This film stands on its own a great science fiction movie though. It has great characters and crackling dialogue. Long live Browncoats!

Kaylee is the engineer who keeps it all running. She is sassy, perky, and not afraid to say her peace. She’s also adorable, genuine, and funny. Kaylee is the heart and the spirit.

Who is Kaylee?

Heather Gardner at The Waiting is the Hardest Part!

She possesses pluck, sass, and a wicked sense of humor. Her spirit shines through in Stormy the Weather Gnome as he makes witty observations regarding his surroundings. Heather has such a great heart. If the ship goes down, I know I can count on her to still be there.

Heather is a writer, gnome wrangler, and one excellent Ninja Minion.

To you I dedicate Stop the World by Extreme. (Title leads to YouTube.)

I thought you would appreciate the humor of the song! “Stop the world, I wanna get off…”

Trivia and Facts:

Did you know DVDs of Serenity and Firefly were taken to the International Space Station?

What movies did Joss Whedon direct before Serenity?

R’s trivia answers – The Road Warrior was directed by George Miller and Extreme’s Play With Me appeared in Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure.

Ninja News

Randi Lee’s short story, 7 Miles, is going to be published in an anthology. Congratulations, Randi!

LG Keltner is hosting the Towel Day Blogfest from May 24-27, celebrating the late Douglas Adams. See her site for details.


The Goodreads giveaway ended this weekend with 620 entrants and my buddy David at Regarding Silexare was one of the winners. Congratulations, David! The giveaway here on my blog is open to the end of the month, so still two more chances to win a copy of CassaStorm.

A to Z Challenge Reflections Post

We will be doing a reflections post again this year and invite all participants of the Challenge to join us.

What did you enjoy about the Challenge?
What could we do better next year?
What issues did you encounter? (Word verification, unable to comment, long posts, etc.)
Did you encounter many non-participants? (With help from our minions, we tried really hard to clean the list this year.)
Theme or no theme – what seemed to work better? Did you find any great themes?
Did you have fun and will you participate again next year?

Your Reflections can be posted anytime from May 3 through May 10. The Linky List will go live May 3 and we ask you to add the link to your post, not your website, once you have posted. The Challenge hosts read every one so we know where to improve for next year.

Fan of Serenity and Firefly? Following Heather and Stormy? Do you want to Stop the World? Know the trivia? And are you ready to voice your reflections when the Challenge ends...?