A Visit with Alex J. Cavanaugh

Need writing inspiration? Look no further. Prolific author and blogger Alex J. Cavanuagh is here, sharing valuable insight and news about his latest book, CassaDawn, the prequel to the Cassa series. It's a privilege to host the "Ninja Captain", as his followers call him, because he always has wise and encouraging words for writers.

Welcome back, Alex! It's always good to have you visit. Do you think blogging is important for writers/authors? If so,why?

Thanks, Karen! I think blogging is still important. It’s a platform that provides both friends and readers a way to connect. They don’t have to be a blogger or part of any social site to read what we write. Plus a good blog post can generate thousands of new visitors, exposing us to even more potential readers. The best part is still the connection of writers and authors within the blogging community.

Blogging is a good way to connect with readers and writers. It has so many benefits. :) Now that you have several books to your credit, what would you have appreciated knowing before you completed your first one?

A few grammar rules come to mind…I’d say knowing how much this journey was going to change my life. But then again, the only way to appreciate that is to go through it.

True words. Do you believe that fiction techniques can apply to non fiction writing? How so?

Fiction means enticing readers and drawing them in. That translates well to non-fiction, because then you can spice up a potentially bland subject. Those elements of intrigue, suspense, and humor help non-fiction as well.

Drawing readers in is a good thing! If you could offer one piece of writing advice, what would it be?

Stay true to yourself. Don’t bend the way you write or your values just to sell.

Wise words to live by, that's for sure. What's next for you - any more books in the works?

My short story, CassaDawn, just came out on December 6. And there’s still one more of my books coming out on audio this month – Dragon of the Stars. Otherwise, I have another story outline I’m kicking around. Focusing on the Insecure Writers' Support Group and my music takes a lot of time though. I never planned past my first book, so anything else I produce is just bonus at this point!

Congrats on CassaDawn and the audiobook as well! Thanks for visiting with us again. Wishing you much success!

Thanks, Karen! 

Find Alex

Blog

Insecure Writers Support Group

What Are the Kargrandes 
Twitter

About Alex

Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design, graphics, and technical editing. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games. Online he is the Ninja Captain and founder of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. He’s the author of Amazon Best-Sellers CassaStar, CassaFire, CassaStorm, and Dragon of the Stars. The author lives in the Carolinas with his wife.

CassaDawn

By Alex J. Cavanaugh
eBook ISBN 9781939844354 2.99
Science Fiction-Space Opera/Adventure/Military

Release date: December 6, 2016

The prequel to the Amazon best-selling Cassa series!

A pilot in training...

Fighting the odds, Byron is determined to complete Cosbolt training. Poised at the top of his class, only one situation holds him back–his inability to work with anyone in the cockpit. Byron’s excellent piloting skills won’t be enough without a good navigator…

CassaDawn Links:

iTunes

Amazon 

B&N 

Kobo

Amazon UK 

Goodreads

What are you working on as 2016 comes to a close? Do you have any questions for Alex? Have any special plans this week?

I’m taking a break, and will return on January 9, 2017. May you enjoy abundant blessings this holiday season and in the new year. Enjoy your time with family and friends! :)

Sending love and blessings,

Karen

 

Meet the Blogger with Jennifer Brown Banks

Most of you are acquainted with Jennifer Brown Banks and her award winning blog, Pen and Prosper. But you might not know why this talented veteran freelance writer started blogging, or that her latest book, The Success Checklist, is now available. So I thought it'd be fun to invite Jennifer for this month's Meet the Blogger.

Welcome, Jennifer! So glad you stopped by. When did you start blogging?

Thanks, Karen. I made several unsuccessful attempts at blogging but was able to seriously get a handle on things in June, 2009.

With several blog awards to your credit, I'd say you've gotten a good handle on it. :) What is your blog about?

Pen & Prosper is about helping writers of all levels and genres to know more and grow more through practical tips, tools, and tested strategies for success. It's not just a blog, it's a support system. :-)

It is a wonderful source of info and support, and I appreciate your efforts. What benefits have you gained through blogging?

Discipline. Friendships.  A broader platform. Awards and recognition. Pay. Joy.

Blogging is a great experience, isn't it? Congratulations on your new book series, The Success Checklist! What prompted you to put this series together?

Thanks for asking. Though we all start blogs for different reasons (to build a platform, to connect with kindred spirits, to rant, to showcase our work, to create awareness of a cause, etc.), many of us don't realize that success requires a strategic approach. My books help writers to "learn more and earn more." The series shares insider's tips to winning awards, earning money, maintaining momentum,  etc.

The end game is to help writers and bloggers to "work smarter, not harder." And to avoid common pitfalls and detours that often cause people to quit before they reap the rewards. 

Sounds like a good plan and a helpful series. What might people be surprised to learn about you?

Hmm...that in person I tend to be shy, serious, and reserved.

Our online persona can seem a bit different than our real life one, that's for sure. What advice would you share with a newbie blogger?

Learn from the best. Work hard. Have a game plan. Don't just blog because everybody else is doing it. You won't last. :-)

Great advice. Where can readers find out more about your books?

Visit my blog, Pen and Prosper, for book details and purchase info. 

Thanks again for visiting, Jennifer. Wishing you much success!

Thank you!

More About Jennifer

Jennifer Brown Banks is a veteran freelance writer, award-winning blogger, columnist and author. She helps authors and entrepreneurs to grow their platforms and their bottom lines. Her work has been featured on top tier sites for more than a decade, including: Pro Blogger, Men with Pens, Tiny Buddha, Lifehack, Write to Done, WOW (Women on Writing), and The Well Fed Writer E-zine. Learn more at Jennifer's blog.

Do you have any questions for Jennifer? What are you up to this week?

Happy writing,
Karen