Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Ellie (Cosmonaut) Garratt: Knight of the Cosmic Table!


Open the bay doors, HAL, because a very special guest has jump her ship to visit us today! Who is this special guest? She's a force to be reckoned with, a fellow writer and cosmonaut (notice we both have space suits?), who makes blogging more about others than herself. She's a talented wordsmith of the strange and the macabre and other solid science fiction wizardry. We at the table would be fools not to grant her the highest honor that The Cosmic Laire can bestow. Having said that, welcome, and I hereby dub thee, Lady  Ellie (Cosmonaut) Garratt, Knight of the Cosmic Table!

EG: *Seals airlock and removes helmet*

Wow! I'm breathing ship air aboard the Cosmic Laire. And I've been bestowed the greatest honour in the known galaxy. Thank you!

DPK: We're glad to have you! Thank you for coming. Please leave your helmet here and we'll continue this interview on the bridge.

*Heads to the bridge*

EG: The Cosmic Laire is different to what I expected. Larger. What are all these triangular dials for? Do you mind if I test a few?

*Reaches hand forward*

DPK: You know, I'm not really sure what those do. I don't think the engineer ever explained to me what those are, after we upgraded.

I wouldn't touch the red one, though - it's staring at us ...

EG: I'll resist turning the red dial, but resistance is futile. I heard that somewhere. Can't quite remember.

When we get to the bridge, can I pilot the ship?

DPK: Only after I ask a few questions. And here's the first one: who makes your space suits? Mine's starting to wear thin, and if you've seen Gravity, you'll know I don't want to be an instant ice cube.

EG: Don't talk to me about Gravity. It seems they're beaming that one to me a whole month after its release date. As for my space suit, I could tell you, but then I'd have to flush you out your own airlock.

Let's just say it wasn't made on Earth.

DPK: You make it sound like getting flushed out of my airlock is a bad thing! It's our favorite pastime around here. And not having seen Gravity is a crime. I hope they'll have showings on your ship soon!

So tell me, among your adventures, I know writing is among them. Tell us about your writing endeavors, and I'd like to know what led you to include this talent in your already impressive resume?

EG: From a young age I loved to tell stories, which was no surprise to the adults in my life - I never stopped talking. Actually, I never stop. Had you noticed?

I also devoured books. Not literally. Can you imagine eating a whole book? A novella might be manageable, but not a novel. Anyway, writing was a natural next step (or bounce, if you're on the moon).

DPK: Groovy, and right now you have two short story collections out, Passing Time and Taking time. Tell us what they're about and why we should pick up a copy right now.

EG: If you like strange, twisted, macabre fiction, you'll like Passing Time. If you're looking for darker science fiction - think post-apocalyptic, alien invasion, and strange new worlds, Taking Time is the collection for you. Of course, I'll leave it up to my readers to decide if any of my stories are based on my Earth-bound or interstellar adventures.

DPK: I like the sound of both! Should we expect another "Time" collection soon?

EG: I'm not planning another time-related collection, though I do have an alternate reality western anthology in the early planning stages.

DPK: Sweet! Do you have a novel in the works?

EG: In between space missions and engine overhauls - if you have any maintenance issues on The Cosmic Laire, I'm happy to help - I'm working on a series of novellas called The Dead Chronicles and a nine-part science fiction series called The Third Dimension.

DPK: How do you get your writing groove on?

EG: When I'm on Earth, I walk the two-mile stretch of coastline where I live or spend time with friends. I usually return to my writing den or spaceship, revitalized and full of ideas. I'm also a big fan of Pinterest and visual stimulation.

Thankfully, the interweb is available in space.

DPK: I still need to see what all the fuss is about with Pinterest. I know our "Evil Queen" Amber Argyle uses it for cover inspiration and ideas, but enough about that. I bet you're hungry after your jump. Astronaut food may not be the finest dining experience in the universe, but what's your favorite spacewalk snack?

EG: Re-hydrated doughnuts and coffee. I'm a sugar-buzz kind of gal.

DPK: Hmm ... donuts. I'm partial to crullers myself!

*Bridge doors open*

EG: Talking of food, do you have a replicator yet?

DPK: A replicator ...?

EG: I hear the waiting list spans into 2014.

DPK: Oh yeah! We had one. Some guy from the ship Red Dwarf replicated the crew's weight in toast and it sort of blew up. We're hoping to replace it with the next tax refund, if we get one ...

EG: *Stops to admire the bridge*

Wow! Your bridge is amazing! It has to be three times the size of mine. That view-screen is to die for. Any chance of swapping ships?

DPK: Thanks! We're working hard to make this place a home worthy of the latest and best that sci fi and fantasy. What you see is based off of my shelved sci-fi novel, actually. I need to crack that thing open and see what I can do with it. As for swapping ships, maybe I'll let you have this one after our next upgrade ... maybe ...

Now, before you decided to travel among the stars, where did you call home? If it's earth, which district do you herald from?

EG: I'm from the small seaside town of Exmouth, Devon - the region of Earth commonly known as The United Kingdom. I have a small apartment right on the gateway to the Jurassic Coast. We're very proud to say there have been no dinosaur attacks for ten years now.

DPK: Lucky. Our DNA specialist got eaten by one of his "resurrection" projects the other day - I told him it was a bad idea ...

Now that you are a Knight of the Cosmic table, tell us what it means to be a knight, to yourself and as a member of the writing community.

EG: It truly is an honour to be given the title of Knight of the Cosmic Table. I hope that I will live up to the responsibility such a position brings - living an honourable life, writing fast, publishing well, and most especially offering support and encouragement to my fellow space travellers and writers.

DPK: And that's what you show the universe each and every time you post, but enough with the formalities. It's time to make this offical. Here's your badge of honor to prove that you are a member of this valiant order. Place if wherever in the cosmos you'd like. Congratulations, Lady Garratt, and welcome to the Cosmic Table!

EG: *Wipes tears from eyes*

You are true friend and gentleman, David. If you ever need my help, remember I'm only a light speed away. Live long and prosper.

DPK: And you too! Tell your fellow knight Nick Wilford I said hello. I think he lives near you (or the place you visit when not in space)! 

EG: *Gives Vulcan salute before entering the escape pod*

*     *     *

Isn't she the greatest, guys? Thanks again for stopping by The Laire, Ellie. You're welcome here anytime. I hope you guys enjoyed our interview. If you feel so inclined, check out her blog and wish her a heartfelt congratulations. A follow would be above and beyond.

That's all I have for now. See you Friday for the start of NaNoWriMo and the launch of our The Spirit of Christmas anthology!

Have you ever had astronaut food before? What would you order from a replicator? Doesn't Ellie's books sound awesome?

I'm David, and what's with all the giraffes I see on Facebook?

Monday, October 28, 2013

Steelheart and Beyond the Edge Release, Ender's Game Anticipation/Release, and A Semi-Break This Week!


Two new sci fi gems were released recently, and it would be a crying shame not to represent, so here are the latest releases from Brandon Sanderson and M. Pax. Man, I can't wait to get my hands on these!

Ten years ago, Calamity came. It was a burst in the sky that gave ordinary men and women extraordinary powers. The awed public started calling them Epics.

But Epics are no friend of man. With incredible gifts came the desire to rule. And to rule man you must crush his wills.

Nobody fights the Epics... nobody but the Reckoners. A shadowy group of ordinary humans, they spend their lives studying Epics, finding their weaknesses, and then assassinating them.

And David wants in. He wants Steelheart—the Epic who is said to be invincible. The Epic who killed David's father. For years, like the Reckoners, David's been studying, and planning—and he has something they need. Not an object, but an experience.

He's seen Steelheart bleed. And he wants revenge.


(From Goodreads) 
*     *     *

For two years Craze’s dear friend, Lepsi, has been missing. The murmurings of a haunted spaceship might be a message and may mean his old pal isn’t dead. The possibility spurs Craze and Captain Talos to travel to uncharted worlds, searching. Out there, in an unfamiliar region of the galaxy beyond the Backworlds, they stumble upon a terrible truth.

Meanwhile, Rainly remains on Pardeep Station as acting planetlord, dealing with the discovery of her lover’s dark and brutal past. Alone and questioning her judgment, her introspection unlocks more than heartache. Latent protocols in her cybernetics activate, forcing her to face a sinister secret of her own.

(From Goodreads)
*     *     *

If you don't already know, the movie adaptation of Ender's Game releases this week (been tough finding good seats to pre-order)!

I've been looking forward to this movie for quite some time - since I was twelve. This means I've waited 2/3rds of my life to see this incredibly deep story on the big screen. The visuals and cast are impressive, and you can bet that I'll review it when I see it. The reviews are looking decent so far, which is usually a fair indication that I'll enjoy the show. I've even had a chance to listen to the score, and it's fantastic - just the kind of music I like to write to! Having said that, game on! I'll be seeing you in the movies.

*     *     *

Update: I have posts lined up for this week, so it'll look like I'm here, but I won't be. A new member in the family requires an adjustment period, so I'm taking a complete break from the norm this week (no work, no writing, no social networking - nada), focusing solely on family time. Yes, that even means I may not make it to Ender's Game this week. No movie is more important than caring for a new child.

However, I'd appreciate it if you zoomed by this Wednesday for the knighting of a new Cosmic Table member and Friday for the release of The Spirit of Christmas anthology Blog Hop. I'll bring eggnog!

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a great week.

Don't those books look awesome? Are you seeing/not seeing Ender's Game this weekend? Did you know Steve Jablonsky did the score?

I'm David, and do Formics dream of electric arthropods?


Friday, October 25, 2013

Looks Like Winter's Come Early For Captain America, and the Next Few Days Will Be Highly Unpredictable!


Hey, guys! I'm cutting this post short today. There's a good chance that a new member will enter my cosmic family any minute now, so I kind of need to keep my schedule open. I'll be back real soon, so until then, wish us luck and have a most enjoyable weekend, my friends.

And thank you. I'm forever grateful for your ongoing support.

Can you believe that October is almost over? November's Just around the corner! What's your plans? Who's doing NaNo this year?

I'm David, and Winter's come early this year ...

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess - A Pure Fantasy Adventure That "Morphed" Me Into An Instant Fan!


I'm a little behind when it comes to the kingdom of Hyrule and the many legends that make up the Zelda franchise. Growing up in the 80's/90's without a console pretty much left me out of the 8-bit experience. I had my dad's PC, however, and I was able to play educational games and star fighter simulators with graphics that spoiled me. Then there's college, and marriage, and kids (don't forget writing), which made it unlikely to really get into gaming as a whole. And then, when the Wii U was introduced, my awesome bro-in-law was cool enough to offer his Wii and also borrow some titles for it. How could I say no to that? Anyway, you know the back story. Now allow me to catch up on the awesome that I've been missing out on.

Having never played a Zelda game before, I had no idea what to expect from Twilight Princess, first released in 2006. I was aware that it received a lot of attention and tons of Game of the Year awards, which I thought was odd. Why? I couldn't understand how a game about an elf saving a princess could top everything else. Well, a few minutes of game play later, I was hooked, and it kept getting better!

It all starts with a young boy named Link who lives in a tree, seemingly by his lonesome. He is a dependable lad, admonished by his elders and loved by all the kids. There's even room for a potential love interest who keeps sneaking off with Link's horse. Then, with the coming night, something changes in the horizon, causing the worlds of light and dark to collide into a twilight world!

Oh yeah ... >this guy< is in unabashed fantasy heaven!

So this girl is taken by shadow creators (to which I thought, wait a sec, aren't these games about saving Zelda?) and Link wakes up in a cell ... as a wolf. This detail alone opens the game up to a whole other interest group! And the odd situation is made odder when a precocious imp frees Link in exchange for his help to return her twilit world where it belongs. I could never tell if I could trust this character or not, which added suspense as the game progressed.

So ... Link's running around the land, morphing between a human and a wolf, with an imp on his back who's bossy and tells him what to do. Since Link doesn't say much (non-verbal cues a-plenty), it actually makes the dynamic work. It allowed me to think for Link and made me reflect on what my responses would be. This adventure game did an excellent job of planting me into the shoes (and the long, pointy hat) of this evergreen (and at times fluffy) hero. Demon by demon and ally by ally, Hyrule is beginning to seem normal again. However, Zelda is nowhere to be found. And Midna (the imp) isn't a fan of the princess, for some reason. And that's when the game turned to a plot twist, unexpected and totally appreciated.

The evil forces have trapped Zelda in her castle, and when our heroes come to her rescue, knowing that her leaving will bring harm to her people, she stays.

That's what I call a leader, and I just couldn't help being captivated by the intelligent manner in which Zelda presents herself. Brains. Beauty. Magic! Link should consider himself lucky, but then, whatever happened to Link's girlfriend?

More importantly, why haven't I played these games sooner?

As the adventure went on, the deeper it became. So deep in fact that I was losing track of what Link was supposed to be doing: fun side quests, playing alternate versions of the same world, and jousting giant pig-men on bridges ... and that's the tip of the berg! Don't get me started on the innovative gadgets and dangerous dungeons. And did I mention the obsessively compulsive (if not addictive) need to gather items!

Shiny!

But what I found most entertaining of all way the antagonist.

I'm not a fan of villains who exist simply to exist, and this Ganondorf guy fit that mold well, but something about his presence ... one look at me and all my bias convictions on storytelling was thrown out the window. Few bad guys are able to express this level of shear badassery without having to say a word. Even the thought of having to face this guy made me sweat! In one swoop, Ganon entered my top 10 favorite baddies of all time, which is hard to do these days.

Two things struck me as being unique about this game. First, it's dark. There's scary creatures and massive bosses Link has to face, and stepping into the twilight world for a bit is loaded with enough nightmare fuel to last a lifetime. Secondly, the game is remarkably clean and kid-friendly, even at the final battle!

Where'd all my pieces of heart go?!

While the game was longer than I anticipated and a few repeat visits were in order to complete various tasks, I fully understand the hype the preceded my experience, for which this game certainly is. It looks great, it plays great, it encourages reading and makes the player an active participate in the adventure. It even has the capacity to shed a few tears (or make your eyes watery, in my case ... I blame the excellent music and the "sense of loss" ending" ... ahem ...). Now I have some catching up to do, and if Nintendo continues this franchise with this level of pure fantasy escapism, I may just buy the consoles for these games alone, to which Twilight Princess is a masterpiece!

Cosmic Cruller Rating:

What's your take on Zelda games? Which titles have you played? What's your favorite? Got a copy of Skyward Sword I can borrow?

I'm David, and Ooccocos may look funny, but they can teleport!


Monday, October 21, 2013

New Release: Allegiant, New Members, and Updates!


Are you excited? I'm excited. Why am I excited? Because the finale of the most excellent Divergent series is releasing this week! If you're not familiar with this dysopian series, well, better late than never!

Enjoyed your series, Veronica! Too bad good things have to end ...

The faction-based society that Tris Prior once believed in is shattered—fractured by violence and power struggles and scarred by loss and betrayal. So when offered a chance to explore the world past the limits she’s known, Tris is ready. Perhaps beyond the fence, she and Tobias will find a simple new life together, free from complicated lies, tangled loyalties, and painful memories.

But Tris’s new reality is even more alarming than the one she left behind. Old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless. Explosive new truths change the hearts of those she loves. And once again, Tris must battle to comprehend the complexities of human nature—and of herself—while facing impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice, and love.


(From Goodreads)

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It's occurred to me that I haven't given a Shout-Out in a while, so do me a favor and welcome these latest members of the Cosmic Crew! Thank you for joining, and I hope you enjoy this cosmic cruise:

and
 
 *     *     *

Update: aside from clocking in more pages and editing a whole lot of Undead chapters (and taking a short Season 4 Walking Dead break to refuel my zombie tank), I've been touching up my novelette for our charity-driven The Spirit of Christmas anthology, available November 1st! I like that my contribution, Brother Christmas, has a paranormal angle to it, but I'm sure you'll enjoy the collection as a whole. One last read and it's full steam ahead until these zombies are put to bed. Why the rush? Woven's sequel is just "stitching" to get started! ;)

Halloween is just around the corner, my friends; hope you've got treats ready because I'd hate to see you get tricked, and I have a few tricks of my own ready. Have a more-than excellent week!

Who's excited about Allegiant? What have you watched/read lately? What're you dressing up as? ... Who smashed my pumpkin!?

I'm David, and who'da thought that Frankenstein could fight?

Friday, October 18, 2013

Does "Save the Cat!" Lead To Lots Of Intentional Clone Cats, But We Still Love Them Because They're Cats?


I ran into this article the other day, and I couldn't help but notice my Agreement Meter rising as I read on. All too often I've seen resources available that are intended to guide experienced or fledgling writers through the craft of writing, how to do it, how to stay at it, etc.

There's some great resources out there, but few have had as big of an impact as Save the Cat by Blake Snyder. Why's that? For starters, it's a screenwriting book which, according to the book's subtitle, is "the last book on screenwriting that you'll ever need." Since it hit the shelves in 2005, we started to notice a change in the delivery of the Hollywood blockbuster ... and film story in general. Turns out that since this book is centered on outlining a story (with a 15 step beat sheet), this could apply to any story, be in presented in a novel, a play, television, radio, you name it!

Before we knew it, we had lots of movies and novels that used this beat sheet as a guide that, more likely than not, aided in landing deals and discovering new talent that would have been left unexposed otherwise. A number of my author friends swear by it and have contributed part of their success to it.

I've taken a stab at it myself. In a way, it's an outline, and you have to fill in the beats. I've always been an outline writer, so what I got out of this book is when the elements are "supposed" to happen or when they "should be" introduced. While this is all and good, the bad thing about good things is people tend to jump on a good thing.

That means it's good right? For a limited time only, maybe ...

The article I mentioned details what I'm referring to. Now, when I go to the movies or read a new book, I can't help but feel an element of predictability. Yes, there are introductions, conflicts, rising action, climaxes, and so forth (all expected), but it feels more pointed, at times forced, much like messing with genetics to create an outcome rather than letting nature take its course, or focusing on a structure instead of the construction. Those who use the beat sheet as a guide (rather than the law) ultimately produce great stories. Thing is, we now have many stories that use this technique, and while it works, from what I'm seeing, some struggle with what to write between beats. Plot devices are randomly thrown in and the dialogue feels contrived - because that's WHEN it's "supposed" to happen.

I've always felt that the moment an external influence dictates what an artist does, some level of creativity is compromised. But wait, it even said in the book that it's a guide and not a rule book, but when something is toted as a "storytelling bible" and story structure software is created based on the beat sheet, you gotta wonder ...

This is just my thought on the matter. The key to a good story is execution - doesn't matter what style or structure. I'm by no means dissing this book or those who use it regularly, for the record. As a writer, I look for any tool I can get my hands on. The trick, at that point, is to use the tool in a way that only I can - the only way you can. Find ways to make it different from anything we've read or seen. That alone will help us develop a stand-out story to be proud of.

Open discussion time! I'd love to know what you think. Got to take off for now, so in case I don't see ya, have a fantastic weekend!

Does this structure run the risk of beating a tried and true formula to death? What does this mean for the future of storytelling? Do we expect books and movies to follow these beat now?

I'm David, it's about time we had an Aquaman movie ... right?


Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Venom: A Fine Work of Historical Fiction That'll Chill You With Murder and Romance In Beautiful Venice!


I know what you're thinking (maybe, it's a guess): what's with the historical fiction? One with romance, at that? I like to read outside the genres now and then, especially when it's from someone I know or I win copies. In this case, I won an ARC copy of this novel almost a year ago from Kate Coursey (thanks, Kate!), and this cover's been screaming READ ME ever since. So I caved. And here's my review!

Cassandra Caravello is one of Renaissance Venice’s lucky elite: with elegant gowns, sparkling jewels, her own lady’s maid, and a wealthy fiancé, she has everything a girl could desire. Yet ever since her parents’ death, Cassandra has felt trapped, alone in a city of water, where the dark and labyrinthine canals whisper of escape.

When Cass stumbles upon a murdered woman—practically in her own backyard—she’s drawn into a dangerous world of courtesans, killers, and secret societies. Soon, she finds herself falling for Falco, a mysterious artist with a mischievous grin... and a spectacular skill for trouble. Can Cassandra find the murderer, before he finds her? And will she stay true to her fiancé, or succumb to her uncontrollable feelings for Falco?

Beauty, love, romance, and mystery weave together in a stunning novel that’s as seductive and surprising as the city of Venice itself.


(From Goodreads
*     *     *

From the first page on, I knew Venom would be one of those books where you have to lean back and absorb the words. There's plenty to see and there was enough world building to easily plant me in Venice, Italy during the Medieval ages. My pre-Renaissance history is a bit rusty, but I could see the setting, which is something I seek in every book. Paul's writing is versatile and smooth, and she introduced me to terms and items that I was unfamiliar with - something that will come in handy during my next medieval fantasy adventures.

Viewing the world through the eyes of Cass (Cassandra), our heroine, makes for an interesting read as well. Coupled with a betrothed fiancé and a handsome (commoner) artist sets the ever-expected love triangle into full swing - except it never felt like your typical swing. Much appreciated. There are also a few unexpected dark moments that drew me in, made me question, and kept me going.

Something I thought was fun about this read was the ample use of plot devices. Interesting takes and spins on each of them, and enough of them that I could play trope bingo! I'm a trope nerd, so you should consider that a glowing compliment. And you know this book has an involved series behind it because it ends with a bit of a cliffhanger that I'm sure Belladonna will resolve. So by all means, if you find yourself in the mood for an epic-feel historical fiction read, Venom is an idle book that's worthy of sinking your teeth into!

Cosmic Cruller Rating:

I'm David, and there's a leek in the gondola (it's for dinner)!

Monday, October 14, 2013

Spirit of Christmas "All I Want For NaNo" BlogHop!

Hey, guys! Remember when I mentioned how I was taking part in an upcoming Christmas anthology? Well, the time has finally come (finally) to tell you more about it ... and why we're doing it!

NaNoWriMo has done some amazing good for writers over the years. Not only have they given writers the motivation to get their manuscripts written and finished, they've given their time and hard-earned cash to make this event happen year after year - that's why five of us authors decided ... it's time to give back!

J.A. Bennett, Cassie MaeKelley Lynn, Jessica Salyer and myself (did I really just link myself?) are pleased to present The Spirit of Christmas: An Anthology, a collection of five holiday novelettes wrapped into one, to be released Nov 1st. Step into the stories of two stranded holiday travelers, store employees dating on the job, the haunting of a young boy, and much more! 

All proceeds going to the folks behind NaNoWriMo (ain't that cool?)!

To help spread the word and kick this anthology into the world, we've devised the "All I Want For NaNo" Blog Hop, which will run Nov 1-3. Want to get in on this yuletide action? On November 1st, post what you want for your NaNo and place a link to The Spirit of Christmas: An Anthology, as well as the Blog Hop code. That's it! Be as creative as you'd like: pictures, flash fiction, video ... think outside the box!

No Blog Hop is complete without prizes, and with five of us judging, each entry will be eligible for one of five most-excellent prizes!

Jennie = 50 page critique + ecopy of The Spirit of Christmas
Jessica = 50 page critique + ecopy of The Spirit of Christmas
Kelley = $25 Amazon Giftcard + ecopy of The Spirit of Christmas
David = $25 Amazon Giftcard + ecopy of The Spirit of Christmas
Cassie = a choice of her ebooks + ecopy of The Spirit of Christmas

Pretty cool, eh? So what are you waiting for? Sign up below!

I'm David, and what do you want for NaNo?

Friday, October 11, 2013

Taking a Leave of Absence for a Short Birthday Break!


I'd normally have a post up before now, but I partied hard last night with my bro-in-law and the fam. It was his birthday, and would you know it, I was born a few hours after him? So I'm putting the ship on auto pilot and taking a break from the usual. I'll be back Monday with a couple of excellent announcements and other surprises.

Until then, have a fantastic weekend, my friends!

I'm David, and you're never too old to dance like a robot ...


Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Gravity: A Terrifyingly Realistic Plunge Into The Perils Of Space That Matches The Sum Of Astronaut Fears!


"Clear skies ... with a chance of satellite debris ..." - Dr. Ryan Stone

Imagine standing at the edge of a cliff. You have no glider, no parachute, and no zip line. You lean forward. All instinct and reason tells you to back away, but, at the same time, something inside urges you to go ahead, pulling you, as if you’re falling already. Now, imagine floating adrift in space. You have no MMU, no tether, and no oxygen. The slightest pull, the smallest push, will ensure your fate—and the edge of this astronomic cliff is everywhere. No matter where you go, you will fall. Add a masterful use of 3D and long, seamless shots that draw you in without ever letting you go, and you will feel the vertigo that is the sum of all astronaut fears. Cuarón and crew’s Gravity is a beautiful and terrifyingly realistic plunge into the perils of space, with stomach-churning, nail-biting fair that hasn’t been felt since Cameron’s The Abyss.

It’s Dr. Ryan Stone’s first shuttle mission—and Matt Kowalski’s last—when a missile launch causes a chain reaction, turning all of Earth’s satellites into speeding-bullet shrapnel. This leaves the two surviving astronauts adrift in space with no communications and little oxygen left. Ryan is ready to throw in the towel, for she is as alone in space as she would be on Earth. Matt won’t stand for it, so he does everything in his power to help Ryan find her will to keep living. Their only hope lies in the escape pods of abandoned stations—before the debris makes another pass.

Being a lover of space, this is the kind of film I’ve always wanted to see. The big question, however, was if Hollywood could pull this off. They’ve given space their best shot through the years, but every entry seemed too reliant on blockbuster formulas for me to drop my suspension of disbelief. Not this time. With the help of Cuarón and son’s combined screenwriting, Gravity has an entirely new formula. From the first, mesmerizing view of Earth to the heart-stopping conclusion, Gravity will make anyone feel like an astronaut.

And they will certainly come to fear what they fear.

The nod to 2001: A Space Odyssey was an especially nice touch.

The duration of this 91 minute film is mostly, if not entirely, made up of radio communications. Any sound effect you hear is what the characters hear through the vibrations of their suits. Never has 91 minutes felt so long! And is this film worth seeing in 3D? Roger that! Unlike other post-conversion productions, this film clearly had 3D in mind for its audience, and it actually does help with the immersion process. Add a subtle, magnificent score that plays only when it needs to and you have an experience that’s waiting to be had—quiet when the view is enough and edge-of-your-seat suspenseful during a deadly game of tug-of-war with an exploding space station.

Brilliant sound editing and game-changing special effects aside, my only rift with the film is the mechanics used in supplying empathy for Ryan, our lead role. We’re made to feel sorry for her from the get-go, yet the reason isn’t particularly clear, and her brief back story is given at tiny increments throughout the film, as if the subject is heavy enough to carry the story along. Then again, this story is about being stranded in space. Not much of a story, but it compensates itself with long shots and few scene cuts, making the story pan out like it’s happening in real time.

I’ve said elsewhere that Ender’s Game could be the first sci-fi film in years to draw major Oscar attention—I take that back. Gravity is about as near perfect as a film gets, and it reminds us of why we go to the movies in the first place. Clooney and Bullock make a fantastic pair in a film that has already reached the highest star of Cuarón’s filmography and one of the best of the year. Gravity is my first “must see” of 2013, and I’m sure it will be remembered come Oscar time.

Cosmic Cruller Rating:

*     *     *

What's your favorite space movie? Thinking of going to see Gravity? I promise you'll survive the experience ... no really, I promise!

I'm David, and "I have a bad feeling about this mission."


Monday, October 7, 2013

Releases: The Eye of Minds and The House of Hades!


Hey, guys! I hope your weekend was eventful and stellar!

I'm not going to lie - I had mixed emotions going into this week. You might remember that I had planned to celebrate the release of Woven on the 8th of this month, but ... we all know that plan went by the starboard side ... for the time being. However, there are two power- house novels releasing this week. Seriously, like I'd stand a chance competing with these two juggernauts (which I preordered months ago)! Here's some exciting new sci-fi/fantasy books this week!

(Click the covers to enter an exciting portal of awesomeness!)

First is the start of a new sci-fi series by the great James Dashner!

Michael is a gamer. And like most gamers, he almost spends more time on the VirtNet than in the actual world. The VirtNet offers total mind and body immersion, and it’s addictive. Thanks to technology, anyone with enough money can experience fantasy worlds, risk their life without the chance of death, or just hang around with Virt-friends. And the more hacking skills you have, the more fun. Why bother following the rules when most of them are dumb, anyway?

But some rules were made for a reason. Some technology is too dangerous to fool with. And recent reports claim that one gamer is going beyond what any gamer has done before: he’s holding players hostage inside the VirtNet. The effects are horrific—the hostages have all been declared brain-dead. Yet the gamer’s motives are a mystery.

The government knows that to catch a hacker, you need a hacker.
And they’ve been watching Michael. They want him on their team.
But the risk is enormous. If he accepts their challenge, Michael will need to go off the VirtNet grid. There are back alleys and corners in the system human eyes have never seen and predators he can’t even fathom—and there’s the possibility that the line between game and reality will be blurred forever.

(From Goodreads)

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Up next is book 4 of The Heroes of Olympus by Rick Riordan!

At the conclusion of The Mark of Athena, Annabeth and Percy tumble into a pit leading straight to the Underworld. The other five demigods have to put aside their grief and follow Percy’s instructions to find the mortal side of the Doors of Death. If they can fight their way through the Gaea’s forces, and Percy and Annabeth can survive the House of Hades, then the Seven will be able to seal the Doors both sides and prevent the giants from raising Gaea. But, Leo wonders, if the Doors are sealed, how will Percy and Annabeth be able to escape?

They have no choice. If the demigods don’t succeed, Gaea’s armies will never die. They have no time. In about a month, the Romans will march on Camp Half-Blood. The stakes are higher than ever in this adventure that dives into the depths of Tartarus.

(From Goodreads

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Updates: I've been making some good progress on The Undead Road. As you can see on the progress bar, 15K to go! My awesome critique group did point out a major hole that my planned outline hadn't counted on, so I had to go back and do a whole chapter rewrite and make the following chapters fit the new direction, but it's good to catch this at chapter 18 instead of chapter 3, amiright?

This is going to be a long-overdue review kind of week, so be sure to check out what I have in store later on this week. See you then!

I'm David, and Number 5 is alive!

Friday, October 4, 2013

Awakening: An Interview with Author Christy Dorrity!


You know what we need more of? Celtic fantasy! You can never go wrong with Celtic mythology or the magic, romance, and mystery that comes with it. If only there was more ... wait, what's this?

I just got my wish. Awakening, a new fantasy by Christy Dorrity!

A little magic has always run in sixteen-year-old McKayla McCleery's family—at least that’s what she’s been told. McKayla’s eccentric Aunt Avril travels the world as a psychic for the FBI, and her mother can make amazing delicacies out of the most basic of ingredients. But McKayla doesn't think for a second that the magic is real—it’s just good storytelling. Besides, McKayla doesn’t need magic. She just moved to beautiful Star Valley, Wyoming, and already she has a best friend, a solo in her upcoming ballet recital, and the gorgeous guy in her physics class keeps looking her way.

When an unexpected fascination with Irish dance leads McKayla to seek instruction from the mute, crippled janitor at her high school, she learns that her family is not the only one with unexplained abilities.

After Aunt Avril comes to Star Valley in pursuit of a supernatural killer, people begin disappearing, and the lives of those McKayla holds most dear are threatened. When the janitor reveals that an ancient curse, known as a geis, has awakened powers that defy explanation, McKayla is forced to come to terms with what is real and what is fantasy.


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Dang, that sounds like an awesome read. And to tell us more about it, let's beam in the author herself. Welcome to The Laire, Christy!

CD: Thank you so much David, I'm happy to be here.

DPK: Glad you could make it on short notice. Now, in Awakening, you bring Celtic mythology to Wyoming - quite the cool combination! What led you to using Celtic mythology with this setting?

CD: I grew up in beautiful Star Valley, Wyoming, a small community with big heart. I love the people and the mountains there and it was easy to set a mythic fantasy in a place that has cold water geysers and centuries old rock churches. As for the Celtic mythology, I started getting interested in all things Irish when I started taking Irish dance lessons. It was only natural to combine my love of both!

DPK: Nothing wrong with inserting life experiences with our fiction, I say. It'll likely make the read even more enjoyable and realistic!

This the start of a series, correct? How many books are you planning for The Geis?

CD: I don't really know for certain. I have at least three planned for now, but the world of AWAKENING is so large that I may do more. And I have toyed with the idea of giving Aunt Avril her own mystery series.

DPK: Awesome! If you're already playing with a spinoff in your brain, then I'd say this series will have no problem figuring itself out.

Tell us about your favorite character from Awakening? Anything he or she would like to say to us?

CD: That would be Aunt Avril. She didn't even make it into the early drafts, but she has been so much fun to write. She's quirky, and unpredictable. Aunt Avril would listen for her dead husband, Theron's input, and then say, "Answer the questions, my dear, you never know who might be out there listening."

DPK: HA! Crazy. I'm loving the sound of this already. Who are some of your favorite authors? What books inspired you to start writing?

CD: When I was young I loved books like A Wrinkle in Time, and the Narnia series. I also loved reading anything by Scott O'Dell. When I began writing fantasy I read a lot of Terry Brook's books. I love Amber Argyle's Witch Song, and Robison Well's Variant.

DPK: Well I'll be an astronaut stuck on an asteroid! I've read all those, too. Glad to know we have such good taste in books!

This is the most important question: where is your book!?

CD:  Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and iBookstore

DPK: Excellent! I don't believe I've ever hosted a link from iBookstore before, but there's a first time for everything, right?

Anyway, it was great having you here! The next shuttle will be here to pick you up in about an hour, but the escape pods are warmed up and ready if you can't wait that long ...

CD: Thank you David! I hope you enjoy Awakening!

DPK: You're welcome, and I sure will. Already have it in my TBR list.

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About the Author:

Christy Dorrity lives in the mountains with her husband, five children, and a cocker spaniel. She grew up on a trout ranch in Star Valley, Wyoming, and is the author of The Geis series for young adults, and The Book Blogger’s Cookbooks. Christy is a champion Irish dancer and when she’s not reading or writing, she’s probably trying out a new recipe in the kitchen.


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Well, dudes ... It's been real, and I have me some Gravity to watch today. Looking forward to one of the most highly acclaimed films of the year to date. I'll tell you all about it next week. Until then, please enjoy your weekend and don't let anything shut down your writing!

I'm David, and did you see what I did there?

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

IWSG: Biting Off More Than You Can Chew From A Full Plate: When Life Stuff Meets Increased Demand


Need A Little Support?Thanks to Alex J. Cavanaugh, the Insecure Writer's Support Group gives bloggers a monthly chance to express their concerns, worries, and insecurities without fear of reprisal. It's a seriously big group now, and with well over 300 participants, it shows no signs of slowing down! I'd like to thank Alex for keeping this group going for so long, as it has proved wonderful in the supporting of fellow authors and the revealing of needed and sound advice.

Without further ado, here's what's been on my mind lately ...

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Ever been to one of those buffet restaurants where the variety is so huge, you can't possibly sample everything (I love those places!)? Then again, you may not want to sample everything - shellfish and certain dishes that include baked beans will prove detrimental to my beauty sleep. But then, a few items show up on my plate that I don't recall putting there, and the establishment (who I will fondly refer to here as The Universe), puts his foot down and says,"Nope! You gotta lick that plate clean, boy!" Just as I'd expect from Chuck-O-Rama.

I ate what I could. I filled up fast (darn you, freshly-baked rolls and honey butter!), but there was so much left and I wasn't allow to take it home in a doggy bag. I either had to finish what I had right in front of me or leave the place and suffer the cold stairs of servers and fellow paying customers that could be easily interpreted as, "The nerve of that guy! Doesn't he know people are starving in Africa?"

In this instance, it's the (perceived) cold stares I'm sensing.

But then I was recently reminded of a book, one I had read some time ago called Bird By Bird. Perhaps you've heard of it? It all started with the author's younger brother who had a report on birds due the next day. When the task seemed impossible, the father said, "Bird by bird, Buddy. Just take it bird by bird." In my case, take it side by side, portion by portion, main course by main course, bite by bite.

Be it multiple hiatuses, reviewing old material, or static, directionless blogging, I haven't been fulfilling this blog's mission statement of This place is dedicated to bringing you the latest and best of all things sci-fi and fantasy. I could list everything on my plate ... but I won't, because the time for making excuses is over. It's time to writer-up!

Besides - demand isn't bad. Never have I been asked to do so much in the writing community as I am now, and I am totally grateful for being able to lend a hand. My invitation to you is to never hesitate. I'm always here for ya! Let me know about your book if you want me to shout it out, and expect fresher content on here, henceforth!

My plate may never be clean, and that means I'll never go hungry.

Ever feel like there's way too much going on in your life? How do you manage what's on your plate? Ever read Bird By Bird

I'm David, and "come now ... don't be shy ..."