Alex Cavanaugh: It’s a fun adventure with a fast pace, focusing on character behavior and interaction.
SBR: CassaStar is set in the future with a fighter pilot going through training, what research did you do to prepare for the novel?
AC: I’ve worked in courseware for fighter pilots, so I already had an understanding of flight and training procedures. While I possess knowledge on the technical aspects of fighter jets, I chose to focus more on the human aspect.
SBR: Who is your inspiration for the character of Byron?
AC: The character has been in my head for a very long time and is a compilation of many cocky young fighter pilots. My earliest influence can be traced back to Apollo in the original Battlestar Galactica series, although Byron took on his own unique personality as the storyline formed.
SBR: Which character from CassaStar do you most identify with?
AC: My personality is very different from the characters in my book! However, I can identify with Byron’s drive for perfection and his introverted nature. I also relate to Bassa’s desire to adhere to rules. I’m not a rebel under any circumstances!
SBR: Which character was the most difficult/easiest to write and why?
AC: Trindel was perhaps the easiest, as he would annoy me as well! Byron was often a challenge, though. His rebellious attitude caused me to stretch and make decisions based on what someone with a lonely and troubled past would do. He’s not fond of other people, which occasionally made him seem unlikable, but by the end of the book, he’s finally discovered what friendship really means.
SBR: What is the most satisfying aspect to writing?
AC: The chance to bring to life an adventure that I’ve witnessed only in my mind for so long!
SBR: CassaStar is your debut novel, are you planning on continuing with Byron in different situations or are you working on something completely different?
AC: At the moment, I am working on a sequel that will take place several years in the future. This time the main character opposite Byron will be a woman, and that’s been a challenge! For those who’ve wondered why there are no women in CassaStar, the sequel will provide an opportunity to explain and delve into the history of the Cassan race. Given Byron’s nature, I anticipate a serious battle of wills, too!
SBR: What authors/works have most influenced you and what type of influence (e.g. good/awful) were they?
AC: I’ve been a big Terry Brooks fan for years and even met him once. I also admire Lincoln and Child, as they know how to move a story forward at a rapid pace. Timothy Zahn is my favorite science fiction author – his books move quickly and don’t waste time with a lot of description. Those authors have been my biggest influence in terms of pacing, and I hope it’s been a good influence!
SBR: What are you currently reading and what is in your to-read pile?
AC: I’m almost finished with Alastair Reynolds’ The Prefect, and I have the remainder of David J. Williams’ series and a Timothy Zahn book waiting.
SBR: Aside from your own novel, CassaStar, what series/standalone should people be reading?
AC: Everyone needs to read the Pendergast series by Lincoln and Child. Part Sherlock Holmes, part James Bond, Pendergast is one of the best characters ever created!
Speculative Book Review would like to thank Mr. Cavanaugh for stopping by and answering our questions. CassaStar, Cavanaugh's debut novel hits bookshelves today. So do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of the latest science fiction series from a very promising author.
More information about Alex J. Cavanaugh:
I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and work in web design and graphics. I'm experienced in technical editing and worked with an adult literacy program for several years. A fan of all things science fiction, my interests range from books and movies to music and games. Those passions are reflected here on my blog! My first book, CassaStar, comes out this fall. Currently I live in the Carolinas with my wife.
Website- http://alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com/
Publisher- Dancing Lemur Press
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