Alex Cavanaugh Visits: The Storm Has Arrived

In case you hadn't heard, Alex J. Cavanaugh's third book, CassaStorm, made its debut this month. He joins us today to share about his journey. 

Welcome back to Write Now, Alex! Congratulations on your latest release, CassaStorm! This is the third book in the trilogy, after CassaStar and CassaFire. What inspired you to write this series? Did you intend for it to be a trilogy? 

Hey Karen! Glad to be back. The original version of CassaStar was written when I was a teen, inspired by Battlestar Galactica, Star Wars, and other science fiction shows and movies. I rewrote it and intended for it to be the only book. My fans (and publisher) had other ideas. They inspired me to write the other books. Or maybe the word is persuaded? Close enough! 

Close enough, lol, yes! You are also a musician – does your music inspire your writing? Or vice versa?

I’ve been a musician for almost forty years. It does indeed inspire my writing. I think music is a powerful tool for visualizing and feeling the emotional impact of a scene. Often ideas come to me while I am playing and if I play that piece a few times in a row, the idea is etched in my mind. 

It is interesting how other parts of our lives influence our writing, isn't it? What is the best writing advice you’ve received to date? 

It’s not really advice, but it made a huge difference in the way I wrote. It took me a year and a half to write CassaStar, but only four-five months each to complete the next two books, and that includes revisions. What made the difference was signing up for NaNoWriMo. I don’t like to lose, so having a daily word count goal motivated me to write faster. I needed that, as I am basically a lazy writer. 

I'd say that's a great tip, whether officially considered advice or not! :) Are there any books by Alex C. on the horizon for 2014 and beyond? 

I’m still undecided as to whether I’ll continue writing or not. I do have an outline for another space opera, but I am so busy playing guitar in a band that I just don’t have time to write anymore. But who knows what will happen next year!

I hope you continue to write if you can work it into your schedule. Your readers will miss you! Thanks so much for stopping by. It's always great to have you here. Wishing you all the best with your books! 

Thanks, Karen!

CassaStorm      

           

By Alex J Cavanaugh

From the Amazon Best Selling Series!

A storm gathers across the galaxy… 

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

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

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

“CassaStorM is a touching and mesmerizing space opera full of action and emotion with strong characters and a cosmic mystery.”
– Edi’s Book Lighhouse

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

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

Find CassaStorm: 

Barnes and Noble 

Amazon

Amazon Kindle 

Goodreads 

Book trailer 

Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design and graphics. He is experienced in technical editing and worked with an adult literacy program for several years. 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. The author of the Amazon bestsellers, CassaStar and CassaFire, he lives in the Carolinas with his wife. 

Find Alex:

Website
Twitter 

Goodreads

Did you ever participate in NaNoWriMo? Do you have any questions for Alex?

Happy reading and writing,

Karen

Blog Tag

I'm It!  

Sending a big thank you to Lisa Ricard Claro of Writing in the Buff! She tagged me, and now I get to answer the following questions. :)

What are you working on right now?

My work in progress is an historical fiction novel set in colonial America. It's a collaborative project with author Susan J. Reinhardt. Both of us have had other projects on our plates this year so progress has been slow. But it's been fun and exciting to watch the book take shape. Susan and I both are seat of the pants writers and we like to give each other surprises when we hand over a completed chapter.

In addition to working on articles and blog posts, I'm brainstorming ideas for more educational books for my publisher, Helping Hands Press. I'm also taking a copyediting course and considering new lesson offerings for the online writing classes I teach.

How does the WIP differ from other works in the genre?

The book Susan and I are writing touches on a little known historic event of that era. There are additional surprises, but since this is a collaborative project, I cannot divulge any more right now. Sorry about that! We're hoping that it will offer a fresh and interesting storyline to Christian historical fiction fans.

Why do you write what you do?

I realized about fifteen years ago that I enjoy writing lessons, like those I use for teaching teens and adults online. I come from a family of teachers, but I never wanted to go into teaching, so this came as a bit of a surprise. Composing lessons involves writing but takes a different approach and role than that of a traditional classroom teacher, so maybe that's why it appeals to me.

When writing lessons, I think about material from the student's viewpoint. What can I write that will engage young minds? How can I make it fun and interesting? What will help them stretch, learn, and retain info? I've seen success in my classes with this approach; it motivates me to write more lessons that can help students learn.

I enjoy writing fiction too, although I am not sure yet how strong of a writer I am in that area. Susan seems to think I do okay, as she agreed to write the book with me. :) She's a patient teacher.

Bottom line, I enjoy writing and have long felt that I could use it to reach and encourage others in various ways. Writing is a passion that I also see as my life's work at this stage of the game.

What is the hardest part about writing?

I like all stages of the process unless I am stuck with a deadline pressing, or when editing and not sure how to rework something. I battle two things most - lack of confidence and procrastination. I'm a work in progress though, and figure there is no growth without a few bumps in the road to overcome.


Now You're It! 

I'm supposed to tag three authors, but I've decided to tag all of you. If you are willing, consider yourself tagged. If you'd rather pass, I understand. Let me know if you accept the challenge, Would love to hear your answers. :)


Coming Attractions

Alex J. Cavanuagh joins us for an interview on September 30 to celebrate the release of his latest book, Cassastorm.

Jody Hedlund's blog tour for Rebellious Heart stops here on October 7 and will include a giveaway and other surprises.

Hope you can join us!


What do you think is the hardest part about writing?
 
Have a great week,

Karen

P.S. Looking for writing tips for kids K-12? I'm sharing a few over at Carol Alexander's blog.



Photo credit: Stock Exchange

Fabulous Features & Favors

Coming Attractions

Authors Tyrean Martinson and Cathy Bryant will stop by soon for a forum on self-publishing. Tyrean's YA fiction, Champion in the Darkness, made its debut in February. The Way of Grace, Cathy's third book in the Miller's Creek series, was released last fall. Hope you can join us as these smart and savvy writers share their insight.
 
Alex Cavanaugh joins us in September when his third book, CassaStorm, is released. There's never a dull moment when Alex is in the house, so be sure and stop by to soak up some of Alex's wit and wisdom.

We'll also hear from Ann Gabhart, Cathy Gohlke, Jody Hedlund, and Sarah Sundin, whose new books hit the shelves before the close of 2013.

If you're a fan of The Emotion Thesaurus (And if not, you might want to be - read my review here), then you'll be excited to know that authors Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi are working on two new Character Trait books on Attributes and Flaws. This is good news for writers of all genres. Will keep you posted on the details.

Oh No Volcano! is a new app, coming soon to an iPhone near you. How do I know about this? The Creative Director of the project is my son David Lange (so pardon me if I plug it:). If iPhone apps are your thing, hop over the Oh No Volcano Facebook page and check it out.


The Favor

On May 16 I signed a contract with Helping Hands Press for an e-book about homeschool learning co-ops. If you aren't familiar with what a co-op is, it's when homeschool families meet for cooperative learning and activities.

The lovely and talented Diane Estrella of That's What I'm Here For, is helping coordinate a blog tour, and we are looking for bloggers to participate. Might you be interested?

There are no set rules; posts can range from a blurb to a spotlight, interview, review, or similar feature. I will supply links, bio, and picture, and to make it even easier, I've a set of stock questions/answers if you are short on time or inspiration. 

Here are the details:

Title: Homeschool Co-ops 101

Release Date: On or about August 15

Projected Blog Tour Date: August 15 – 30

Synopsis: This book is for parents who are thinking about starting or joining a homeschool learning co-op. It provides info ranging from co-op benefits and getting started to scheduling, organizing, finances, resources, helpful hints, and more. Also included are ready to use, hands on unit studies for grades K-12, suitable for co-op and/or family use.  Author Karen Lange offers insight from over sixteen years as a homeschool parent, co-op coordinator, support group leader, and homeschool consultant. Whether co-oping with a small or large group, HC 101 offers insight and encouragement. 

The Giveaway:  A copy of the book and a $25 Amazon Gift Card. 

If you can help, that would be great! If you cannot join in or do not feel like this is a good fit for your blog, please know that I understand, and that you won't offend me! :) Either way, if you know anyone who would be interested, feel free to pass this info on.

Kindly let me know in the comments or email me at karenelangeATgmail.com if you'd like to participate. Thank you! :)

FYI: I am taking a break till July 1. (I want to avoid being a saboteur as discussed in last week's post. If you missed it, click here.)

What exciting things does your summer hold? Have a great week! 

Happy reading and writing,

Karen




Popcorn photo: Stock Exchange

News and Notes

Instead of the usual Thursday's This and That feature, I decided to go with the title News and Notes for a change. I know, I'm a wild woman, right? :)

Blogger Extraordinaire Alex Cavanaugh was the subject of a recent ambush blogfest - one I missed because of a previous commitment. However, I figure it's not too late to give a shout out to Alex, and to thank him for all he's done for the blogging community.

In the words of those who ambushed him, "...Alex is an awesome blogger, he's also an enigma." True enough. There have been few sightings of Alex, so one might think he is a figment of the imagination. But he's not. He's a real live inspirational and encouraging member of the blogging community. He was among my early followers, and to a newbie blogger like me, that meant a lot. Congrats and thank you, Alex! I'm grateful for your support.

Congratulations to Angela Felsted! Her YA book Chaste hit the shelves this month. If you'd like to view the trailer, click here.  Special note - from December 12-15, Angela is donating the proceeds of the book to Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. To buy or view more details about Chaste visit Amazon or Barnes and Noble.

Frustrated by punctuation? Check out this post at The Writing Life, Can You Take Artistic License with Punctuation Rules? 

Here's another tricky one - ensure versus insure. Are there set rules or are they interchangeable? Brian Klems shares a simple fix in Ensure vs. Insure.

Free Software for Indie Authors has a list of great resources from word processing to converting documents to saving files and more. You don't have to be an indie author either; these tools will help writers of any level or genre.

Time for fun! Check out these Online Games for Writers. Article author Sarah Turner says, "Writers are expert procrastinators." (Um, yes I am. How did she know?) Turner goes on to say that these "procrastination tools" will put your "language skills to work." Sounds good to me!

Do you procrastinate when it comes to writing? What fun things are you doing this weekend?

Happy weekend,

Karen  :)



 
Image credit: Stock Exchange