Guest Blogger: Alex J. Cavanaugh

It’s my pleasure to be a part of debut author Alex J. Cavanaugh’s virtual blog tour and welcome him today as the special guest blogger here at Thoughts in Progress.

Alex’s has just released his first science fiction thriller, CassaStar, and it’s already making its way on the Top 5 List of Best Debut Sci Fi Books by Novel Writers. I’m a huge fan of sci fi movies, but have never been into reading them. Alex has changed my mind about that. He stops by today to talk to us about ‘going back to the first story.’

Thank you for allowing me to visit today, Mason! I’m sure your readers are wondering why a science fiction writer has landed on your blog. Where’s the mystery or romance? Well, let me assure you folks, a mystery is still involved, just not within the pages of my book. The mystery resided in me when trying to come up with an idea for a novel-length story.

I’d written several short stories over the years, ranging from science fiction to fantasy to horror. Anything that involved the fantastic! I kept thinking that I needed to attempt a novel, though. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. Thumbing through those short stories, I saw nothing of interest. Certainly nothing that I could expand into a full-length novel. (Unless I wanted a plot as thin as tissue paper!)

As I agonized over creating an entirely new story, my mind returned to one of the first stories I’d ever written. I’d planned a full novel, creating an outline and even writing a couple key scenes. But for whatever reason, I’d abandoned the idea. Faced with the daunting task of creating a story from scratch, I searched my closet until I’d located this early work. I was saved!

Now, a writer’s first effort is often rather pathetic. Mine was no exception. There were issues. Heck, the entire plot was an issue! I couldn’t use the story as originally conceived. Before I gave up on the idea, a glimmer of hope appeared. I really liked the strength of the two main characters. While the bogus storyline held gaping holes, the characters were solid. I just needed to start from scratch and re-imagine the story. And that is what I did, spending endless hours constructing a new tale for my heroes.

The result of my efforts is CassaStar, my debut novel. It bears almost no resemblance to my original vision, either. All that remains are the two main characters, the title, and one pivotal scene. Trust me, what hit the trashcan will not be missed! And yet, despite the differences, it still boasts the same spirit and energy. It’s still CassaStar – just a whole lot better!

Alex, thanks for guest blogging here today. Your story just goes to show that sometimes our first ideals are the best (even if they do need more work).

Here’s a bit of information about Alex’s book: CassaStar (ISBN 9780981621067) by Alex J. Cavanaugh, debuted Oct. 19, and is listed as Science fiction/adventure/space opera. It is published by Dancing Lemur Press LLC. Now a brief synopsis:

To pilot the fleet’s finest ship…

Few options remain for Byron. A talented but stubborn young man with a troubled past and rebellious attitude, his cockpit skills are his only hope. Slated to train as a Cosbolt fighter pilot, Byron is determined to prove his worth and begin a new life as he sets off for the moon base of Guaard.

Much to Byron’s chagrin, the toughest instructor in the fleet takes notice of the young pilot. Haunted by a past tragedy, Bassa eventually sees through Byron's tough exterior and insolence. When a secret talent is revealed during training, Bassa feels compelled to help Byron achieve his full potential.
As war brews on the edge of space, time is running short. Byron requires a navigator of exceptional quality to survive, and Bassa must make a decision that could well decide the fate of both men. Will their skills be enough as they embark on a mission that may stretch their abilities to the limit?

Interest peaked yet? Here’s a glimpse at a review that might help you along: “…calls to mind the youthful focus of Robert Heinlein’s early military sf, as well as the excitement of space opera epitomized by the many Star Wars novels. Fast-paced military action and a youthful protagonist make this a good choice for both young adult and adult fans of space wars.” - Library Journal

Now check out the awesome book trailer.



CASSASTAR can be purchased at the following links:
AMAZON - http://www.amazon.com/CassaStar-Alex-J-Cavanaugh/dp/0981621066

BARNES & NOBLE - http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/e/9780981621067/?itm=1&USRI=cassastar

BAM - http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9780981621067?id=4581185563381#overview

It is also available in eBook format for Kindle, iPad, Nook, and others.

Now a brief look at Alex. He has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design and graphics. He’s 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. Currently Alex lives in the Carolinas with his wife. You can find out more about him and his book on his blog http://alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com/