Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Michael Di Gesu: Knight of the Cosmic Table!


I'd like to introduce a fine fellow who is no stranger to the Blogosphere. Not only does he write great stories with a nail-biting pace, but he is generous and volunteers his time to help other writers, either by showcasing their books or picking their submissions apart and resembling them for intensely helpful and thorough critiques. I've had the privilege of one such critique, and I tell you, this man has an editing eye that is worthy of knighthood, because this rough draft is anything but rough anymore. And so, without further ado, I hereby dub thee and present to you, Sir Michael Di Gesu, Knight of the Cosmic Table!

MDG: Whoa, David ... Am I all that? I'm just a detail oriented guy that enjoys helping others give their works a bit more polish and style. As an interior designer by trade, I try to create a space that represents the client's tastes but adding form and function... Writing is the same principle... It's all about balance, form, and function. When I do a critique, I try to put myself in the voice of the writer and tweak the situation to flow, and add just a bit of shine.

I also believe in setting a stage or atmosphere for my characters so they have something to react to... Our surroundings influence us, so they need to be clearly defined in our writing.

So for me it truly is all in the details. Perhaps that is why I have a keen eye?

DPK: Funny, I've compared writing to interior painting and other home decor stuff before. Interior design is a winning comparison to writing, I see! And you are most welcome. I believe a concord of bloggers and your readers are overjoyed with glee about your knighthood today, so the honor is well deserved, my good sir.

Let's start off with a little groundwork, backgroundy information, shall we? What drove you, an interior designer, to pick up writing? What do you write, and what market are you aiming for?

MDG: Well, David ...

Back in 2009 at the top of my game, with three very lucrative contracts in hand, the market crashes. Our economy fell and so did my contracts and income. I went from a six figure salary to zip. All in a few months.

I was faced with no prospects, no income, and unlimited time on my hands. I had always loved fantasy and was (still am) a huge admirer of J. K. Rowling. So I decided to write my own middle grade fantasy, and illustrate it too. Why not put my art background to work for me ... right? In three months, the first draft was written ... all 125,000 words of it.

Okay, you can ALL stop laughing now.

That was four years ago. I am still editing the final on that novel ... hopefully the last, thanks to our esteemed lady knight ... she was kind enough to do a final critique for me. I am also querying my second novel, a edgy YA contemporary. I enjoy writing in different genres, so hopefully I will have several works to appeal to editors and agents in various markets.

DPK: I hear your plight, good sir. It has been a rough few years, as the economy goes, but I'm glad these changing times hasn't pinned you down. We all look forward to the news of your work getting picked up. It's really only a matter of time, at this point.

Word to the Lady Knights! They kick some serious writing booty!

MDG: Yeah, no kidding. Gotta love the Morg. She is awesome.

Thanks David, I really appreciate that. I have learned so much. Many writers have started with their crafts in their teens and twenties.

COUGH!

I am way older than that. I had written a few things in college, and actually one of my professors wanted to have one of my papers published, but I was more concerned with my art and modeling career at the time, so I kind of blew that off. Funny how things come back to you and bite you in the arse... LOL. I'd do anything to get published now. But I am patient. Timing is everything.

DPK: Indeed, it tis. Now, I understand you live in Florida, yes? I've always wanted to go there. It's on the bucket list, actually. Is there anything I should add to my list for when I finally get down there?

MDG: Actually, I live in Chicago.... I used to live in Florida. I am currently visiting right now.

DPK: Ooooh ... I feel silly. Can you tell us about Florida anyway?

MDG: Florida is a huge state, with LOTS of things to do. Orlando is a must if you are into Theme parks... which I kind of think you are.. UNIVERSAL is AWESOME... WIZARDING WORLD is a must if you are into Harry Potter.

As for things to do. One of THE most memorable things you must do is drive from Miami to Key West. Take your time.... its a gorgeous ride. But first stay in South beach for a few days, then drive to Key Biscayne. Hang there for a day. It's absolutely lovely. Then drive down the keys .... If you can stay a day in one of the upper keys you should. They are like little jewels.

The Pan handle has natural Florida beauty. Sugary sandy beaches with DUNES.... really beautiful. The west coast of the state is also pretty. You get to see dolphins playing in the gulf. An amazing sight.

The everglades is really interesting if you like alligators and exotic birds.... Fort Lauderdale... Really lovely with great nightlife and a stunning beach. It is also the Venice of the US. It has thousands of canals weaving throughout it. Beautiful stately homes on the water.

I mean there is just so much to see.

But what's great about it, you can drive anywhere in the state easily. There are no mountains and the highways are modern and fast. I hope to be living there soon. I want to sell my condo and move back.

IF I'm here, it would be my pleasure to show you around....

PK Hrezo is in the Tampa area and she's a honey. I plan to meet up with her next week in Orlando hopefully. Tampa is another great area to explore. If you need more details. I'm your man....

DPK: That makes me want to buy a ticket and head over there, like, yesterday! And you're right - I grew up in LA, which is surrounded by amazing theme parks. Had a Season Pass to Six Flags every year of high school, too. Too bad I don't have the money for that now ...

Money ... what's up with that?

And holy smokies! You moved to the icy-cold windy city? I say that because I'm no stranger to Chicago. Tell me you've been to Heaven on Seven? I love that place!

MDG: Yes, CRAZY, I know... I am from NYC originally so I had missed the four seasons. When I sold my house in 2004, I wanted to move back to NY, but with real estate INSANE at the time, I couldn't afford what I wanted, so I opted out for Chicago instead. There, I was able to get a condo large enough for me to be comfortable in. Now I am OVER THE COLD! LOL. But I would still like to move back to NYC, but they may have to wait for a while. Florida for now is much more affordable for me and I do like it there too.

Yes, I have been there, of course... The one on Rush.... When I am in the mood for cajun food, that's where I go.

DPK: Here's the universal question to this knighting process - Now that you are a knight, tell us what being a knight means to you.

MDG: IT'S OFFICIAL!

*Jumps up and down*

I'm a KNIGHT! ALL RIGHT!

*Fist pumps the air*

Sorry ...

*Lowers head slightly*

Got caught up in the moment....

What being a knight means to me is not all about heroic deeds, shiny metal, or colorful banners waving, it's about a man's ... *Notices sparks igniting from the piercing blue eyes of lady knight* ... clears throat ... woman's ... Person's heart, their soul. Are they honest and true. Someone who will be there for you no matter what the consequences. In today's uncertain times, we need our knights to be a strong and positive presence. A solid rock to cling to in a raging storm. An inner strength, something more powerful than muscle and bone. To be counted among all of you fills me with this strength.

You, Sir David, have a kind heart, an affection for youth to amuse them with your stories of the living dead. Helping them face their fears of death.

And you, Sir Nick, your sensitivity toward special children and their needs is something to be exemplified. Compassion is such a noble strength.

*Turns toward Lady Bennett and bows*

My dearest Lady Knight, your passionate belief in our fellow human beings glows brighter than your golden locks. Indeed, a force like no other.

*Faces Lady Morgan and bows*

As for you, my fine Lady Knight, your strength is in your soul. It shines through the ages and is brighter than any full moon.

I am humbled by your faith in me. Thank you all for this honor.

DPK: *Wipes away a tear*

The honor is all ours, good sir - thank you as well!

Now that you mention it, I won a cirque from you and I handed over the first three chapters of my Undead Road MG novel. I'm trudging through the middle of it now. Your critique was especially helpful, and there was a phrase you used, "economy of words" that has stuck with me since. Tell us what that means. Where did you pick that up?

MDG: *Smiles broadly*

First, I'm really happy that my critique has helped you. As for the reason why I'm smiling, it's because my first novel was 125,000 plus words. And that was for an MG fantasy novel.

Now you all can stop laughing ... Okay .... enough ... we all get it.

Sir David, would you please calm them down?

DPK: *Raises a hand - all goes quiet*

MDG: Thanks!

The first thing my first critique partner told me was "MURDER THOSE ADVERBS" ..... I think I had about five thousand... seriously. After six chapters, she bailed. Understandably so ... come on, 125,000 words, please! Do you blame her? So I worked on it myself and reduced it to about 90K. It was my second critique partner who REALLY pounded it into my head about economizing words as you write. In other words, choose your words wisely. Josh Jacobs (who has a fantastic agent and just sold his first book.) helped me so much with this aspect in particular. Showing me how to write a sentence with a punch using as few words as possible.

So from that point on, I learned to economize my words. My second novel was only 50,000 in the first draft. You can always add later. Which I did. Now it's 62,000, a proper word count for an YA novel.

DPK: Spot on! My first novel was about 150K, but then, I was aiming for the adult market, at 15, so what does that tell you? And that particular book may never see the light of day.

No ... it's not a vampire book ...

Murder those Adverbs. True. They're like trolls, really. We should hunt some down after the interview! One more question, and I'll go grab my sword:

If you were about to be thrust into a time warp, what is the one piece of advice that you would share with your fellow writers?

MDG: Hmmm. Interesting question. I have always felt writing should come from your heart and soul. If you write with passion, the words will ring true and honest. It doesn't matter what genre, what time, or what place as long as it's believable and the reader feels the words. Isn't this why a writer writes? We need to express our passions and share them with others.

*Lowers head and catches the eyes of my fellow knights*

I will do my best to add a stronger bond to the Cosmic Laire.

DPK: Seriously, you have an amazing way of expressing yourself. No worries. A gifted asset, and a welcomed addition to The Cosmic Table, you are ...

Hey ... who invited Yoda?

Anyway, well done, Sir! I have your banner ready for you on the side here. Go ahead and save it and use it however you see fit. Thank you for spending some time here and for sharing more about yourself with us.

LET'S HUNT SOME TROLL!

MDG: I am so ready to hunt troll!

But before we go, I'd like to thank my fellow knights for this honor. You are all a fine group of amazingly talented writers and I am thrilled to be part of such an esteemed group. If you even need my keen eye for a critique, I am your knight.

*Bows to the table and draws a jeweled sword from a silver sheath*

TO ARMS, SIR DAVID ... THE TROLLS AWAIT!

*     *     *

Oh, man, that interview was a riot! Hope you guys enjoyed our "boys being boys" moments - totally wasn't planned. So, that's four knights down and another to go for next month. Who will it be? I don't know yet, but I'll be on the lookout while this troll hunt is underway ...

In the meantime, you can visit and follow Michael's Blog here!

I'm David, and ... as if this interview wasn't epic enough ...


Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Tuesday Tropes: The Cultured Warrior


The enemy line has fallen. You charge in. Victory is at hand, but over the next hill, an enemy leader sits on a stool, sipping hot tea while listening to Bach on the phonograph next to him. Then, with a gentle wave of his hand, he sends in the second wave. Time to retreat!

The Cultured Warrior - a character trope with two key characteristics: 1) the person is well acquainted with battle, well trained, has the muscles to show for it, and knows how to pick and win a fight, no matter how big or small, and 2) the person is very well versed in the arts and sciences, and may be a connoisseur or a wine taster, as a hobby. This character is more likely to start a war because you've insulted his favorite book instead of talking smack about his mother.

Beast from X-Men is an excellent example, his favorite pastime being reading while he hangs upside down. Need a real life example? How about that George S. Patton, an avid reader and decorated general who fought in the WWII European Theater?

"May God have mercy upon my enemies, because I won't!"

The Cultured Warrior is something of a neutral trope, since the character in question can be a good guy, bad guy, or something in between. Come to think of it, both the Sith and Jedi pride themselves on their cultural knowledge - they just have a difference of opinion.

"It's all about Power!"       "It's all about Peace!"

These guys have the tendency to be suave, debonair, intellectually intimidating, and oftentimes annoying, because, let's face it - who likes it when someone acts like they're smarter than you? It's enough for any star fleet captain to launch a tracking torpedo at them!



Moral of the story: I wouldn't quote Shakespeare during a fight ...

Where else have you seen The Cultured Warrior? Are you brave enough to use this trope in your writing? Have you already? 

I'm David, and *unsheaths sword* have you any Grey Poupon?

Monday, April 22, 2013

Blog Tour/Release: Fraction of Stone and Elemental!


From the abyssal pull of the carnivorous black hole ... I'm back!

But more importantly than that, a couple of must-be-shared book releases need to be mentioned, two that I've been looking forward to for some time. I couldn't help but splurge on these, too. That's what I do when I find books that speak to me. Anyway, onto the show!

*Click on these covers to open their Purchasing Portal*

First, the anticipated release of Kelley Lynn's Fraction of Stone!

Wind tunnels, torrential rains and earthquakes tear apart Casden. The cause of the world’s imbalance is unknown, but the mounting occurrences suggest there’s little time before life ceases to exist.

Rydan Gale and Akara Nazreth are the only humans with the ability to wield magic. The tattoo on their necks and the discovery of an ancient book, dictate they are the key to the world’s survival.

But the greatest obstacle for saving mankind isn’t the bizarre creatures, extreme betrayals and magic-fearing men hunting them.

It’s that Akara doesn’t believe the world is worth saving.


About the Author:

Eventually the day came when the voices in Kelley Lynn’s head were more insistent then her engineering professor’s. So instead of turning to her Thermodynamics book, Kelley brought up a blank page on her computer screen and wrote. Somewhere along the way she became a Young Adult author.

Kelley was born and raised a Midwestern girl. She’s not afraid to sweat and fills her free time with softball, soccer and volleyball. (Though you probably don’t want her on your volleyball team.) She occasionally makes guest appearances as a female vocalist for area bands.

Check out Kelley's links!: Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

*     *     *

Up next is Brandon Ax's Elemental, a story that's right up my alley!

Sophia's mother disappeared when she was six, leaving behind a broken father and sleep disturbed by silent terrors. Now twelve years later, the nightmares that plagued her youth have suddenly returned.

With dark creatures occupying her nights and a sense of restlessness consuming her days, all she wants is to finish school and get out of her small town as fast as possible. Everything changes when she is confronted with the realization that the shadowy beings from her dreams are real. The truth of this reality hits hard when someone she loves is killed. It would seem that anyone in their way is disposable.

A mysterious boy named Aiden enters her life bringing with him all sorts of complications. They're drawn to each other, but their connection brings Aiden right into the path of her half-demon nightmares. With her father and several new friends put in the cross-hairs, Sophia must decide whether to let the shadows take her or stand her ground and fight. As the school year steadily moves closer to an end her decision may come with the cost of her life or worse—the lives of those she cares about.


*     *     *

I can't believe it! Even though I've been gone for a couple weeks, a couple of new crewpersons have arrived! Welcome to the Laire!

and
Jessica Stank!

*     *     *

Update: Yep ... I'm back - maybe not completely how I'd like to be, but I do appreciate the couple of weeks off, and Kelley for forgiving me. I missing my date for her blog tour, you see. I told her to punch me with brass knuckles, in the face, but ... she didn't. That makes me happy, but I did deserve it. I'm glad to see her book, and Brandon's, splashing the reader scene, and I look forward to reading them both!

As for this blog, some have said "why fix what's not broken?" and you know, you're right! It's not broken. It was something else, and I'll save it for the next IWSG post. Once this week is over, you may sense a greater sense of purpose around here ... I can sense it!

As for writing, I typed up a few chapters of Undead during the break - a nice boost to get this book wrapped up. The sooner the better, because we're starting Woven 2 in June, whether it's done or not.

Get ready for some rejuvenated awesomeness this week! Tropes, trailers, and a new Cosmic Knight is headed your way. Click back!

What have you guys been up to? Is the AtoZ about to wrap up? Who's excited for all the good movies coming out next month?

I'm David, and ... "I WILL FIND HIM!"


Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Post: General Update, New Members, and Brief Hiatus


Plans don't always follow through as intended. Fact of life. Rule of the cosmos, which can cause areas in one's life to be upheavaled. My blog is one of those areas ... and it's entirely my bad. I've bitten off more than I can chew, and am doing my best to catch up, but there is also this nagging voice that's telling me to veer from the present course that this blog is taking. Not sure how that's going to pan out yet ...

In short, I'm letting you know that everything's cool here, we're alive and well, and I'll be taking a short leave to recalibrate the direction of this blog. General maintenancing, just like my back sprinklers ...

*     *     *

Three new members have joined the ever-growing roster. Please welcome and visit these fine bloggers. They'd really appreciate it! 

and 

*     *     *

Update: A few things worth noting: 1) The projected length of Undead Road is now about 80K (so much unexpected awesomeness happening, including the turning of Ilima Todd into a zombie), which also means, yet again, it won't be finished as soon as I had thought. It'll get there, though. 2) Woven has a map (I may have said that already)! We've also had a glimpse of a cover. You guys ... this is going to be really exciting. Chills all over! 3) For those of you who are going to LDStorymakers this year (or not), J.A. Bennett and I are planning a little authorly dining opportunity ... and there's still room. Check out the details for Write or Dine here. Bring an appetite!

How are you guys doing? Participating in the AtoZ? Has spring finally arrived in your woods, or is Jack Frost messing with your day?

I'm David, and Annabeth has done something to her hair ... 

 

Friday, April 5, 2013

I Watched This: Romeo X Juliet


Yes, yes, I know - another Anime review, but this is going to be the last one for a while, that and this one surprised me. I quite enjoyed it. When you find something good, you spread it like wildfire!

In the floating city of Neo Verona, a tyrannical Montague rules over the people after having slaughtered the Capulet family fourteen years ago. The youngest Capulet daughter, Juliet, is the only survivor. With the city divided by wealthy and poor, Juliet takes it upon herself to dress as a boy and become a vigilante, swearing to bring justice to the people and uphold the innocent. By a twist of fate, she meets Romeo, the only son of Montague. Juliet has every right to despise Romeo for what his family has done to hers, but he is unlike his father - and her heart can't stop yearning for him.

Love blooms in the unlikeliest place, where reason forbids their love to grow. With an unfinished feud and an unfolding revolution at hand, is this a love that can never be?

*     *     *

At first glance, we had no interest in checking this out. Firstly, it's Romeo and Juliet. I know it's arguably one of the greatest love stories of all time, and it's among the best of William Shakespeare's work, but I've never been able to get into the whole tragedy thing. Invest in the lead characters, only to have them die? Nah! While I've enjoyed stories that went that direction, I never have for R&J. Until now.

For one, the story and setting are completely different. It takes place on a floating continent, and people ride on dragonsteeds (horses with wings). This throws us directly into a high fantasy setting. Then, you have class division, a dictatorship, military police, and an entire family wiped out, save but one girl. This is enough to compete with all the hottest dystopias right now. Lastly, the story centers on Juliet, who takes a more active role by being a masked vigilante, and being able to hold her own during a sword fight. Be still, my beating heart!

And of course, they speak Shakespearean-like, occasionally.

But that's not all! Revenge, gods, a funny caricature of Shakespeare himself, and an integration of other Shakespearean plays keeps this ultra-familiar story fresh and unexpected. I honestly had no idea what would happen next, and the ending proved far more meaningful in its conclusion than the emo-original version - and I'm not going to say how. All in all, at 24 episodes, this series is a satisfying watch.

My only gripe is that Part 2 was a little slower until the middle, and the last two episodes were a bit on the weird side (let's hurry and rush the loose ends), but that wasn't enough to make me dislike the series as a whole. I'll go as far as to say that this is my favorite version of Romeo and Juliet yet, and a spinning example of how to take an old classic and turn it into a masterful, action-packed retelling. It's not bad content-wise, either. It shouldn't traumatize kids, all that much.

What have you been watching? Seen anything that you recommend? What's your favorite retelling, Shakespeare or otherwise?

I'm David, and "you raise me up, to more than I can be."


Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Book Blast: Pitch Green/Gateway to Reality Releases!


Hey, guys! There's a couple awesome books that have come to my attention that I'd like to highlight today. Go ahead and take a peek!

Pitch Green by The Brothers Washburn

Trona is a small, smoggy, mostly insignificant town in Colorado. Besides a booming chemical plant, the only thing that characterizes this dismal town is dirt, sagebrush, and an enormous abandoned mansion.

The mansion is, admittedly, the only notable addition to Trona, but it’s something everyone tries to avoid due to its creepy facade. Everyone except for Camm Smith, who is obsessed with the need to get inside.

Seven years earlier, as Camm herded a pack of little trick-or-treaters past the mansion, her young neighbor, Hugh, disappeared, becoming just one of many children who have vanished from Trona over the years without a trace. Now a senior in high school, Camm is still haunted by the old tragedy and is sure the answer to the mysterious disappearances lies hidden somewhere in the decaying mansion. Joining forces with her best friend, Cal, who also happens to be Hugh’s older brother, Camm naively begins a perilous search for the truth.


As things spiral quickly out of control, and others die, Camm and Cal discover it will take all their combined ingenuity to stay alive. An unseen creature, lurking deep within the bowels of the mansion, seems to have supernatural powers and is now hunting them. Making matters worse, they become entangled with hostile federal agents, who care only about keeping old secrets permanently hidden. Left with only their wit and seemingly ineffective firearms, they know they are running out of time. Unless they can make sense out of the few pieces of the puzzle they manage to unearth, the monster will certainly destroy them, and like so many others before them, they will be gone without a trace.

*     *     *

Gateway to Reality by Becca J. Campbell

Talented artists shouldn’t be waiting tables, scraping by, and living mediocre lives. But that’s exactly what art school graduate Wes Teague is doing.

Then he wakes from a bizarre dream, haunted by the sense that his life isn't real. A harrowing truth presents itself--the real world lies in his dreams, not when he's wide awake.

The dream world he enters each night is rich and vibrant. Chicago appears the same on the surface, but chaos runs rampant as gravity, physics, and other laws of nature become fluid, changing unexpectedly. There, Wes's parents, brother, and sister are strangers. His girlfriend Emily doesn’t recognize him. Wes longs to return, to unlearn the truth about his dual reality.

Wes would sacrifice almost anything to get back to blissful ignorance in a false world.

But now he has feelings for the real Emily.

*     *     *

I've yet to read these two books, but they have the right ingredients for exactly the kind of stories I watch out for. Sounds delicious! And who would of thought that "green" could be so terrifying, or that the real world is the dream? I may very well have my mind blown here!

What new books have caught your attention lately? How big has your To be Read list grown? What are you looking forward to next?

I'm David, and if you see me running, I'm being chased by zombies.

Monday, April 1, 2013

Post: Winning the Lottery, IWSG, New Members, Woven Release Date, and ... I've Been SPAMmed!


You know what day today is, so of course I didn't win the lottery.

A guy can have a dream, can't he?

But, everything else is true!

April is here, and the A to Z Challenge is underway. Some unexpected deadlines and a few awesome opportunities to review ARCs is going to slow me down a bit, which means I'll need to cut back on blogging this month, if I'm going to catch up. Tuesday Tropes and Thursday Scores will have to sit out this one ... but we have some cool news!

We have a map for Woven ... a totally awesome map, and we plan to have a reveal for it soon. I'll let you know ahead of time, but more than that, we now have a tentative release date of October 8th! If you're looking forward to it, you can mark your calendars now!

*     *     *

I'm participating in a Book-Bomb this Wednesday, so I'll cut into the group a little early this month. Thanks to Alex J. Cavanaugh, we writers have an outlet where we can sit back and let loose our worries and writing anxieties, little or large. The moment I joined up, I've had no regrets.

Here's what's up: life. In general, I enjoy life, and all that implies. I also enjoy writing and blogging, more than I should. When the demands of life are low, I tend to blog and be part of the social network scene, more than my share. When demands are high, I have little choice but to cut back. However, since the year started, I've had to cut back more than I have since I started this blog. This month, more so.

To make a long story short, I haven't been able to keep up with the Blogosphere as much as I would like, or with making comments like I normally do, but other matters have come to my attention that needs more time than I'm used to giving. Sadly, I'm not exactly sure when I'll be up to speed. Learning that I'll be a father again adds to that.

Yep. I'm pregnant. Well ... I'm not pregnant, but ... you know ...

My routine may be a little off this month, but know that I value your visits and I will continue to visit your blogs as often as I can while I sort out this pre-pub business and convert our current storage room into a new bedroom. Got to make space for an expanding family.

Thank you for understanding. It means an awful lot!

*     *     *

Speaking of room, make some for the newest members of our Cosmic Crew! Glad to have you here. Man your stations! We're taking off!