Interview with… Alex J. Cavanaugh

Today’s Interview with… is slightly different because it’s part of Alex’s blog tour for his latest release CassaDark, and I am delighted to host him. Alex is a huge supporter of writers and bloggers, highlighting all of our latest books and achievements.

Alex works in web design and graphics, and he plays guitar in a Christian band. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games. Online he is known as Ninja Captain Alex and he’s the founder of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group.

Welcome to the Fountain Pen, Alex. Please tell us a little more about yourself.

I’m secretly a Ninja.

Wouldn’t that be great! Nope, just a normal dude, working a job, happily married for many years and no kids. Music has always been part of my life and I’ve played several instruments over the years. Favorite music is progressive rock and metal, especially those rockin’ Scandinavian bands. (So many of the top musicians are from Sweden, I have to wonder if they aren’t born with guitars in their hands.) Science fiction and fantasy are my favorite genres as far as reading, writing, movies, and games are concerned. And like Bassan, the main character in CassaDark, I do not like to fly!

Why science fiction? Did you choose it, or did it choose you?

Since it and fantasy are my favorites, it was only natural I’d gravitate to writing speculative fiction. Both genres need a lot of world building, but science fiction is just a bit easier. At least the space opera style I write. (Think Star Wars.)

Where do you see your writing career heading?

Well, until this book, I saw it coming to a screeching halt! I really didn’t see another book in my future. Not sure if I will continue with novels or try my hand at short stories instead.

How do you approach a new project? Are you a plotter or a pantser or somewhere in between? Where do you get your ideas?

I am an avid plotter. Sometimes I’ll take months to outline a story. I get it detailed to the point that I’m actually starting to write the story itself, and that’s when I begin. As for ideas, there are so many great science fiction movies and books out there. Tons of inspiration!

Tell us about your most recent publication.

CassaDark continues the Cassa saga, but this time I deviated from the main character and focused on his son instead. (Which is why reading the other three is good, but not required—this story stands on its own.) Bassan saved the galaxy as a child in the third book. What if he thought that was the only great thing he’d ever accomplished? And what crap could I throw at him to prove him wrong?

Does social media help or hinder?

For me, it helps. I’m not big on real world events, so I rely on social media to connect with readers. It can be a time suck sometimes, but I’ve made so many great friends over the years. And discovered a whole new world of possibilities out there!

I wish you huge success with CassaDark, and lots of new readers who’ll discover the joys of the first three books!

Thanks, Annalisa!

Release date – April 6, 2022
$16.95, 6×9 trade paperback, 226 pages
Science fiction – Adventure (FIC028010) / Space Opera (FIC028030) / Space Exploration (FIC028130)
Print ISBN 9781939844842 / EBook ISBN 9781939844859
$4.99 EBook available in all formats

Links:
iTunes – Amazon – Barnes & Noble – Kobo – Scribed
Goodreads

CassaDark
By Alex J. Cavanaugh

His world is unraveling…

Bassan’s father is stepping down from command. His best friend almost dies when Bassan freezes. Now, he’s being sent across the galaxy to speak at an important conference. Despite saving the eleven races years ago, he’s paralyzed by fear and doubt. Could things get any worse?

Once there, new acquaintance Zendar convinces Bassan to visit his planet for a humanitarian mission. Bassan’s special connection to ancient technology is the key to saving Zendar’s people. One problem though—it’s a prisoner planet.

On Ugar, he discovers things aren’t so straightforward. As each secret reveals itself, the situation grows more desperate. If he can’t find the right answers, he might die along with Zendar’s people. Can Bassan summon the courage to be a hero again?

You can find the Ninja Captain on his blog and on Twitter

 If you’re a writer, and haven’t heard of the amazing Insecure Writers Support Group, I recommend checking it out. It’s a great writing community and has expanded over the years to include anthology opportunities and a host of useful information.

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