This post is a bit late but I tend to reflect over a period of time, not just on New Year's Day. I almost didn't post this since it is the fifth day of February, but I'm hoping to post more frequently this year. For me 2015 was a pretty good year...except for writing, a fact that I'm accepting as just that and not a reason to beat myself up.
That should make me frustrated and sad, and on some level it does a little bit. Except that my year was full of many highs, memories that I will treasure, a tragedy that still doesn't seem real, and a birthday that made me reflect on where I am now and where I'd like to be in the future. I made decisions about my down time that felt right for my mental well-being. That included more relaxing, spending time with family and friends, reading (however, no YA for months) and yes, less writing.
I had my doubts about whether I could return to that state of sitting down at my computer and loving the process of creating characters, setting, and a plot. Or if I even wanted to again. But I did.
So here are some of the highlights of last year...
My oldest daughter (2nd child) graduating from high school with all the activities involved (prom, award ceremonies, graduation, etc.).
That same daughter being accepted to many great universities and choosing the one which she is currently attending. Very time consuming but wonderful process. I'm so proud of her!
My son working abroad last summer. He's a senior at the university he attends and will graduate this year. CRAZY!
My second daughter receiving her Confirmation (on the night of her sister's graduation! how's that for a "what are the chances" kind of thing). We're now focusing on the college process for her.
My dad's health remaining stable through this past year. *Thank you, Lord!
Work responsibilities changing again. About the same hours, a bit more responsibility from last year.
Deciding to participate in NaNoWriMo as a total pantser. I'll share more about this in my next post.
Here's hoping that 2016 will be kind, full of happy times with those I love, and that my writing goals will be met. I wish all the same for you!
*I don't think I've ever alluded to my faith on my blog, but I have to mention here, that it's my faith in God that grounds me. If not for my love for and trust in God I can't imagine staying sane during the ups and downs of life.
Friday, February 5, 2016
Monday, November 16, 2015
NaNoWriMo Week 2
Week two wasn't as productive as week 1 in terms of word count. I color code each day of writing so I can chart my daily progress. Here's the breakdown if you're interested.
Monday - 132
Tuesday - 239
Wednesday - 886
Thursday - 317
Friday - 451
Saturday - 1,267
Sunday - 109
On Saturday I wrote 629 words during a live virtual NaNo Write-In. It was fun but I couldn't completely shut off the inner editor and went back after the hour to clean up a bit.
On Saturday I wrote 629 words during a live virtual NaNo Write-In. It was fun but I couldn't completely shut off the inner editor and went back after the hour to clean up a bit.
I only added 3,401 words to my WIP giving me a grand total of ,8536, falling short of my goal to hit 10,000 by Sunday night.
However, I did write every day for a total of 15 days of writing in a row.
That's great progress for me.
Week 3 here I come! How has NaNoWriMo been treating you?
Monday, November 9, 2015
NaNoWriMo 2015 Week 1
I mentioned in my last two posts that after a year off from writing I decided that I wanted to get back to it. I had tried to restart a couple of times during the year but approached writing as more of a chore than a passion.
But I missed it. And even though I have a WiP to finish, I needed to try something new to reignite that love of writing that had been such a part of me. Something fresh and new, at least for the time being. So after my two oldest kids were settled at their universities (one a senior and one a freshman), after my new class adjusted to school by mid-October, and my younger two kids were nearly finished with their fall sports seasons, I was ready.
I had thought of participating in NaNoWriMo but didn't want to commit unless I really had the desire to write every day in November. I knew that meeting a daily goal of 1667 words most likely wouldn't happen; I know my schedule, my responsibilities as wife/mother/teacher and my limits. But if I could push myself every day to write something, then I would feel successful.
Guess what? I signed up on October 31, Halloween night, after taking my daughter trick-or-treating.
After my first week, I've reached 5500 words! I know I'm behind, and probably will be the whole month, by I'm ecstatic! It had been such a struggle to write a paragraph.
It's a young adult novel with a working title of Melanie Sole.
Hopefully, this will be the push I need to fall back in love with writing. So far, so good!
Good luck to all of you participating! Keep going! You can do it!
p.s. If you want a writing buddy on NaNoWriMo, I'm Suzie F. over there, too.
But I missed it. And even though I have a WiP to finish, I needed to try something new to reignite that love of writing that had been such a part of me. Something fresh and new, at least for the time being. So after my two oldest kids were settled at their universities (one a senior and one a freshman), after my new class adjusted to school by mid-October, and my younger two kids were nearly finished with their fall sports seasons, I was ready.
I had thought of participating in NaNoWriMo but didn't want to commit unless I really had the desire to write every day in November. I knew that meeting a daily goal of 1667 words most likely wouldn't happen; I know my schedule, my responsibilities as wife/mother/teacher and my limits. But if I could push myself every day to write something, then I would feel successful.
Guess what? I signed up on October 31, Halloween night, after taking my daughter trick-or-treating.
After my first week, I've reached 5500 words! I know I'm behind, and probably will be the whole month, by I'm ecstatic! It had been such a struggle to write a paragraph.
It's a young adult novel with a working title of Melanie Sole.
Hopefully, this will be the push I need to fall back in love with writing. So far, so good!
Good luck to all of you participating! Keep going! You can do it!
p.s. If you want a writing buddy on NaNoWriMo, I'm Suzie F. over there, too.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Apparently I'm Doing NaNoWriMo
I thought about it. I dismissed those thoughts.
I thought about it again but hadn't planned a thing.
As of last night, I wasn't joining the thousands of people writing 50,000 words during the month of November.
Then I woke up, went on Twitter and thought,
"Why the hell not?"
My working title is "Whatever." No title, no notes, I'm just free writing whatever I feel like for a month.
So, apparently I'm doing NaNoWriMo.
Wish me luck!
I thought about it again but hadn't planned a thing.
As of last night, I wasn't joining the thousands of people writing 50,000 words during the month of November.
Then I woke up, went on Twitter and thought,
"Why the hell not?"
My working title is "Whatever." No title, no notes, I'm just free writing whatever I feel like for a month.
So, apparently I'm doing NaNoWriMo.
Wish me luck!
Friday, October 30, 2015
50
Ben Stiller
Diane Lane
Chris Rock
Robert Downey Jr.
John Cryer
Elizabeth Hurley
J.K. Rowling
me
We have something in common.
All born in 1965.
All 50 this year.
I thought I'd be depressed, worried, melancholy. But no.
Instead I'm grateful, happy, loving life.
Today, I'm 50.
I haven't written in a year, but I've decided to start again. It won't be easy, but the decision is the first step.
I'm back.
Diane Lane
Chris Rock
Robert Downey Jr.
John Cryer
Elizabeth Hurley
J.K. Rowling
me
We have something in common.
All born in 1965.
All 50 this year.
I thought I'd be depressed, worried, melancholy. But no.
Instead I'm grateful, happy, loving life.
Today, I'm 50.
I haven't written in a year, but I've decided to start again. It won't be easy, but the decision is the first step.
I'm back.
Monday, February 9, 2015
Random Thoughts on a Snow Day
1. The only reason I can write this blog post today is because schools are closed AGAIN! Snow day #7 for me. As I look out my window we're in the midst of being hit with snowstorm #3. By the end we will have reached about 5 feet total snow. We're running out room for this cold, white stuff!
2. Even though it's easy to grumble about the negatives of the snow: no street parking, narrow streets, trying to navigate around snow towers at the end of the street, etc. there have been two shining positives. Because my husband's jobs require him to be gone for long stretches of work which includes shoveling, I clean our driveway and sidewalk in front of the house. My awesome neighbor never fails to help me with his snowblower when he's out. Those of you in snowy parts of the country know what I mean when you dread seeing a plow drive down your side of the street. Usually it means an extra pile of snow chunks and ice dumped at the end of your perfectly shoveled driveway leading to more back breaking lifting. There is an awesome driver in my neighborhood who drives a huge front loader with a plow on the front. When he sees me out there, he lifts his massive shovel over my driveway and drags the snow out for me and purposely avoids dumping more snow at the end. So if you see a crazy woman chasing a plow with a bottle of water and screaming, "Thankyouthankyouthankyou!!" it's probably me.
3. Still reeling from the Harper Lee news last week.
4. Not going to rant about the Grammys, not going to rant about the Grammys, NOT going to rant about the Grammys. I'll just say that the real queen of 80s (and beyond) music, and the absolute highlight of the night...Ms. Annie Lennox. She certainly put a spell on me!
Any random thoughts today?
2. Even though it's easy to grumble about the negatives of the snow: no street parking, narrow streets, trying to navigate around snow towers at the end of the street, etc. there have been two shining positives. Because my husband's jobs require him to be gone for long stretches of work which includes shoveling, I clean our driveway and sidewalk in front of the house. My awesome neighbor never fails to help me with his snowblower when he's out. Those of you in snowy parts of the country know what I mean when you dread seeing a plow drive down your side of the street. Usually it means an extra pile of snow chunks and ice dumped at the end of your perfectly shoveled driveway leading to more back breaking lifting. There is an awesome driver in my neighborhood who drives a huge front loader with a plow on the front. When he sees me out there, he lifts his massive shovel over my driveway and drags the snow out for me and purposely avoids dumping more snow at the end. So if you see a crazy woman chasing a plow with a bottle of water and screaming, "Thankyouthankyouthankyou!!" it's probably me.
3. Still reeling from the Harper Lee news last week.
4. Not going to rant about the Grammys, not going to rant about the Grammys, NOT going to rant about the Grammys. I'll just say that the real queen of 80s (and beyond) music, and the absolute highlight of the night...Ms. Annie Lennox. She certainly put a spell on me!
Monday, January 19, 2015
BOOK REVIEW: THE DEVIL'S INTERN by Donna Hosie
I've been friends with Donna Hosie for a long time. First, through our obsession love of all things Harry Potter. We were part of the staff and hung out on a HP fansite discussing, analyzing, obsessing, and speculating what would happen to our favorite characters while waiting for each Harry Potter book. Later, we both began writing our own novels and now Donna's a published author. I'm so proud of her and happy for her success. Her first novel with Holiday House Publishing is the first in a trilogy called THE DEVIL'S INTERN.
Book Summary:
"How did you die?"
It's the most popular question in Hell, and Mitchell Johnson has been answering it ever since he was hit by a bus at age seventeen and inexplicably ended up in the Underworld. Now Mitchell is The Devil's Intern in Hell's accounting office. Lately, he's noticed a disturbing trend: the volume of new arrivals is straining Hell's limited resources. Then Mitchell overhears his boss discussing plans to limit newcomers with a legendary time travel mechanism. With a device like that, Mitchell realizes, he could change history and prevent his own death.
But Mitchell's plot goes awry when his three closest friends--Alfarin, the Viking prince; Elinor, from 17th-century London; and Melissa, from 1960s San Francisco--insert themselves into his plans. It soon becomes clear that the fates of all four are entwined in dangerous and unpredictable ways.
With unforgettable characters and a thrilling premise, this original novel is by turns funny, poignant, and thought-provoking.
Well, I'm reviewing it here because I can honestly say that not only did I like it, it is a damn good story. Donna's novel is fun, fast-paced, and suspenseful at times and I fell in love with her characters (more on them below).
The beginning chapters in Hell were a bit slow for me. I wondered why Hell and Up There (the devils' term for Heaven) would argue about souls overcrowding their "places" but decided to suspend belief and just go with the flow hoping my questions would be answered. One of the first characters we meet is Septimus, the Devil's accountant, and he's great. Love how he handles the Devil and his relationship with his intern Mitchell. Without spoiling the story, I really came to like him even more later in the novel. And he has a great sense of style! Once Mitchell and his friends began their time travel adventure, I was hooked.
I'm a character girl which means that for me, characterization is often first and plot a close second. I loved the MC, Mitchell, and his three close friends - all well developed and very different from each other. I liked how they were from different time periods and cultures, but their personalities blended together in a believable and fun way. I'm drawn to novels with strong friendships and this one is a fine example of friends who support and love each other, and who literally go from Hell and back for each other. I loved Hosie's use of a time travel device and was creeped out by the Skin Walkers. I hated when I had to stop reading to go to work, pick up kids, etc. and couldn't wait to get back. That doesn't often happen for me with books, but when it does it's magic and it's instantly added to my mental list of "books to recommend." Can't wait for the second installment of this wonderful trilogy.
THE DEVIL'S INTERN has earned a Kirkus star review and a School Library Journal star review. For more information please visit Donna's blog: Musings of a Penniless Writer.
"How did you die?"
It's the most popular question in Hell, and Mitchell Johnson has been answering it ever since he was hit by a bus at age seventeen and inexplicably ended up in the Underworld. Now Mitchell is The Devil's Intern in Hell's accounting office. Lately, he's noticed a disturbing trend: the volume of new arrivals is straining Hell's limited resources. Then Mitchell overhears his boss discussing plans to limit newcomers with a legendary time travel mechanism. With a device like that, Mitchell realizes, he could change history and prevent his own death.
But Mitchell's plot goes awry when his three closest friends--Alfarin, the Viking prince; Elinor, from 17th-century London; and Melissa, from 1960s San Francisco--insert themselves into his plans. It soon becomes clear that the fates of all four are entwined in dangerous and unpredictable ways.
With unforgettable characters and a thrilling premise, this original novel is by turns funny, poignant, and thought-provoking.
I'm going to be honest. I was a little hesitant at first to read Donna's book because I wasn't quite sure where she was going to go with this story. I had no doubt the writing would be good, having read her YA series, THE RETURN TO CAMELOT, but a question lingered in the back of my mind. Would the focus be on Hell and the Devil? Hmm, not really my cup of tea or the kind of novel that I'd normally choose to read. When Donna landed an amazing agent and eventually a book deal with this novel, I knew that I would read TDI, regardless, and give her my honest opinion because we're friends. However, if it was an unfavorable opinion, I would tell her in a private email rather than review it online.
Well, I'm reviewing it here because I can honestly say that not only did I like it, it is a damn good story. Donna's novel is fun, fast-paced, and suspenseful at times and I fell in love with her characters (more on them below).
The beginning chapters in Hell were a bit slow for me. I wondered why Hell and Up There (the devils' term for Heaven) would argue about souls overcrowding their "places" but decided to suspend belief and just go with the flow hoping my questions would be answered. One of the first characters we meet is Septimus, the Devil's accountant, and he's great. Love how he handles the Devil and his relationship with his intern Mitchell. Without spoiling the story, I really came to like him even more later in the novel. And he has a great sense of style! Once Mitchell and his friends began their time travel adventure, I was hooked.
I'm a character girl which means that for me, characterization is often first and plot a close second. I loved the MC, Mitchell, and his three close friends - all well developed and very different from each other. I liked how they were from different time periods and cultures, but their personalities blended together in a believable and fun way. I'm drawn to novels with strong friendships and this one is a fine example of friends who support and love each other, and who literally go from Hell and back for each other. I loved Hosie's use of a time travel device and was creeped out by the Skin Walkers. I hated when I had to stop reading to go to work, pick up kids, etc. and couldn't wait to get back. That doesn't often happen for me with books, but when it does it's magic and it's instantly added to my mental list of "books to recommend." Can't wait for the second installment of this wonderful trilogy.
THE DEVIL'S INTERN has earned a Kirkus star review and a School Library Journal star review. For more information please visit Donna's blog: Musings of a Penniless Writer.
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Goodreads Challenge 2015: Here We Go Again
The Goodreads Challenge has turned into a tradition for me. I like setting goals, especially when they're realistic and fun. So far I've participated in four with varying degrees of success. Last year, I analyzed the past Challenges and how I fared each year. You can read it about them here.
This past year I set a goal of reading 35 books, a reasonable challenge for myself, I thought. Little did I know that my reading would come to a screeching halt come mid-August. I had read 19 books by then. My goal wasn't completely out of reach, but my desire to pick up a book last fall totally disappeared. Correction: the desire was there but the energy and ability to keep my eyes while reading a page disappeared.
And so I ended the year with a total of 20 books. Not too shabby, but I had definitely hoped to complete more books than that. If you'd like to check out the titles of the those I read, click the Books Read tab at the top of my blog page. I really enjoyed them all and would recommend each one without hesitation.
This year I think I'll lower my expectations. I planned on 35 last year. This year I think I'll shoot for 2 books a months + 1 thrown in for good luck. Twenty-five books doesn't seem like very many, but I know my late spring will be similar to last fall; big family events, work, spring sports, and very little free time.
Goodreads Challenge 2015 = 25 books
Do you participate in the Goodreads Challenge? What is your goal?
This past year I set a goal of reading 35 books, a reasonable challenge for myself, I thought. Little did I know that my reading would come to a screeching halt come mid-August. I had read 19 books by then. My goal wasn't completely out of reach, but my desire to pick up a book last fall totally disappeared. Correction: the desire was there but the energy and ability to keep my eyes while reading a page disappeared.
And so I ended the year with a total of 20 books. Not too shabby, but I had definitely hoped to complete more books than that. If you'd like to check out the titles of the those I read, click the Books Read tab at the top of my blog page. I really enjoyed them all and would recommend each one without hesitation.
This year I think I'll lower my expectations. I planned on 35 last year. This year I think I'll shoot for 2 books a months + 1 thrown in for good luck. Twenty-five books doesn't seem like very many, but I know my late spring will be similar to last fall; big family events, work, spring sports, and very little free time.
Goodreads Challenge 2015 = 25 books
Do you participate in the Goodreads Challenge? What is your goal?
Saturday, January 3, 2015
It's 2015! How'd That Happen?
I want to wish you all a very Happy New Year. It's been an embarrassingly long time since I posted..
since I've written...
since I've read.
My last blog post was in August and I can honestly say that from that time forward, I've had an intense schedule. Last fall, my hours increased at work and my position/responsibilities changed. My day began at 5:15am and ended between 9:30 and 10:30pm. I kept it up through the end of October with a slight break during the month of November. Fall sports ended for 2 children and we managed to sit down to dinner at 6:30 rather than 7, 7:30, or some nights, 8:00. I also have a high school senior who has been writing essays and applying to colleges, so a lot of reading, visiting schools, interviews and meet ups, offering suggestions, rereading, checking the Common App what seemed like a billion times before she pushed Submit. Whew! It's finally done, and while she's still waiting for 3 schools to respond, she's been accepted to a number of great schools. Well worth the late nights and hard work.
Instead of questioning my commitment to writing and reading at every "failure," because I was too tired, I decided to just drop these two aspects of my life for the time being. That "time being" stretched out for 4 1/2 months. The only extra I allowed myself was running, usually twice a week at the soccer field. This was essential for my mental well being, not to mention the physical benefits. Exactly what I needed during my down time, because it required no thought, just motion. I promised myself that at 10:00pm, I was done for the day, no matter what. No dishes, no laundry, no prep for work, nothing. I promised myself that I would not feel guilty about my time away from writing or reading. I would not view it as a failure because I didn't reach my projected goals. Situations change. People change. Priorities change.
Sure I could have pushed myself harder. Could have sacrificed my weekend time. Could have slept less. But I'm learning a valuable lesson.
Being present for my family is priority.
Taking care of myself is priority, too.
Now that the holidays are over, I declared to my husband that the day after Christmas is perhaps my favorite day of the year. The stress and activities are over and I have a week off to do whatever I want, guilt-free. For me this has meant cleaning, resting, learning to crochet, and re-watching season 4 of Downton Abbey in preparation for the new season (I can't wait!). I've started reading again and have peeked at my WIP. Actually, the winter months are usually productive for me and so I'll recommit myself to reading more and writing again.
As far as resolutions go, I will continue trying to live the lessons I've learned from above:
Take care of my family.
Take care of myself.
Happy 2015 everyone!
Any thoughts as to how you will approach this new year?
since I've written...
since I've read.
My last blog post was in August and I can honestly say that from that time forward, I've had an intense schedule. Last fall, my hours increased at work and my position/responsibilities changed. My day began at 5:15am and ended between 9:30 and 10:30pm. I kept it up through the end of October with a slight break during the month of November. Fall sports ended for 2 children and we managed to sit down to dinner at 6:30 rather than 7, 7:30, or some nights, 8:00. I also have a high school senior who has been writing essays and applying to colleges, so a lot of reading, visiting schools, interviews and meet ups, offering suggestions, rereading, checking the Common App what seemed like a billion times before she pushed Submit. Whew! It's finally done, and while she's still waiting for 3 schools to respond, she's been accepted to a number of great schools. Well worth the late nights and hard work.
Instead of questioning my commitment to writing and reading at every "failure," because I was too tired, I decided to just drop these two aspects of my life for the time being. That "time being" stretched out for 4 1/2 months. The only extra I allowed myself was running, usually twice a week at the soccer field. This was essential for my mental well being, not to mention the physical benefits. Exactly what I needed during my down time, because it required no thought, just motion. I promised myself that at 10:00pm, I was done for the day, no matter what. No dishes, no laundry, no prep for work, nothing. I promised myself that I would not feel guilty about my time away from writing or reading. I would not view it as a failure because I didn't reach my projected goals. Situations change. People change. Priorities change.
Sure I could have pushed myself harder. Could have sacrificed my weekend time. Could have slept less. But I'm learning a valuable lesson.
Being present for my family is priority.
Taking care of myself is priority, too.
Now that the holidays are over, I declared to my husband that the day after Christmas is perhaps my favorite day of the year. The stress and activities are over and I have a week off to do whatever I want, guilt-free. For me this has meant cleaning, resting, learning to crochet, and re-watching season 4 of Downton Abbey in preparation for the new season (I can't wait!). I've started reading again and have peeked at my WIP. Actually, the winter months are usually productive for me and so I'll recommit myself to reading more and writing again.
As far as resolutions go, I will continue trying to live the lessons I've learned from above:
Take care of my family.
Take care of myself.
Happy 2015 everyone!
Any thoughts as to how you will approach this new year?
Monday, August 11, 2014
It's Here!!
Woo Hoo!!
My copy of Donna Hosie's The Devil's Intern came in the mail today!
Just try and tear it out of my hands!
My copy of Donna Hosie's The Devil's Intern came in the mail today!
Just try and tear it out of my hands!
Thursday, July 31, 2014
50K: The End is in Sight!
I just reached 50,000 words on my WIP and I'm pumped!
Why? Because I've been working on this MS for over three years, from its conception during a NaNoWriMo challenge until now. Kind of ironic isn't it? Writers are supposed to write 50K in one month and here I took 3 1/2 years! But that's okay because there was a period of 4 to 6 months when my writing practically stopped and I feared that the spark wouldn't reignite when I faced this MS again.
But you know what? It did. I was still in love with my characters and the direction the story was heading. And so I continued on, working on it while I could, little by little. I hoped to finish it by the summer, but then the spring of constant motion and exhaustion hit, and I was barely writing or even reading.
Here I am in July. I'm behind in my reading, behind in my housework but I reached 50K words. Before I started this project I wrote an outline for this novel and have been using it as a road map of sorts. To be honest, I haven't looked at it that often, but I love that I have it as a safety net. Last week, I revisited that outline. I was feeling a bit nervous about the approaching climax and how I'm going to end this novel. I have a vague idea, but wasn't sure how many total words I should aim for.
First, I went back and checked my word count for each chapter. As of now, before revisions, they range from 1500 - 2500 words. Then I checked my outline and came up with a plan for how many chapters I should have left. I figure I have about 16K left. 16!! That's totally doable! These last chapters are not going to be easy but being to finally see the finish line is all the motivation I need to work hard at it each day until I'm done.
I finally have a working title which seems to reflect the general gist of this novel: REACH. It may change as I continue to work on this but it's so nice to refer to it as something other as YAGS (young adult ghost story).
Now, back to work.
How are your projects going?
Why? Because I've been working on this MS for over three years, from its conception during a NaNoWriMo challenge until now. Kind of ironic isn't it? Writers are supposed to write 50K in one month and here I took 3 1/2 years! But that's okay because there was a period of 4 to 6 months when my writing practically stopped and I feared that the spark wouldn't reignite when I faced this MS again.
But you know what? It did. I was still in love with my characters and the direction the story was heading. And so I continued on, working on it while I could, little by little. I hoped to finish it by the summer, but then the spring of constant motion and exhaustion hit, and I was barely writing or even reading.
Here I am in July. I'm behind in my reading, behind in my housework but I reached 50K words. Before I started this project I wrote an outline for this novel and have been using it as a road map of sorts. To be honest, I haven't looked at it that often, but I love that I have it as a safety net. Last week, I revisited that outline. I was feeling a bit nervous about the approaching climax and how I'm going to end this novel. I have a vague idea, but wasn't sure how many total words I should aim for.
First, I went back and checked my word count for each chapter. As of now, before revisions, they range from 1500 - 2500 words. Then I checked my outline and came up with a plan for how many chapters I should have left. I figure I have about 16K left. 16!! That's totally doable! These last chapters are not going to be easy but being to finally see the finish line is all the motivation I need to work hard at it each day until I'm done.
I finally have a working title which seems to reflect the general gist of this novel: REACH. It may change as I continue to work on this but it's so nice to refer to it as something other as YAGS (young adult ghost story).
Now, back to work.
How are your projects going?
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Quest of the Artisan: Cover Reveal
Hybrid author and friend, Donna Hosie, is the author of the successful THE RETURN TO CAMELOT young adult series. Earlier this year she released Book One in her spin off series, THE CHILDREN OF CAMELOT called THE RING OF MORGANA. Coming soon in 2015 she will self publish Book Two in this series called QUEST OF THE ARTISAN. Here's the gorgeous cover and what it's about.
THE CHILDREN OF CAMELOT series continues in QUEST OF THE ARTISAN.
Six months ago, seventeen-year-old Rustin Hall thought he knew what he wanted. Then he travelled back in time with his best friend, Mila, to the world of Camelot, knights and magic, and everything changed.
Now Rustin is the artisan, and he knows his future because it's written in the past.
But Rustin's plan to build the first temple for the Gorian druids is cut down like the trees he talks to when the Round Table reveals the name of the newest knight of Camelot: a name that carves fear and unrest into the other knights. With Mila now in danger, Rustin, along with his friends, James and Jalaya, goes on a quest to find her before a new malevolent evil gets there first. A necromancer is building an army of the dead, and they are coming for Arthur's daughter.
Rustin will join forces with a young would-be knight called Galahad, as his quest takes him into the very heart of the Arthurian legends he grew up reading. A quest that could be the end of the artisan's life, not just in Logres, but for good.
Due for release in 2015. I can't wait!!
For more information on Donna's fabulous books:
Amazon
Donna Hosie's blog
THE CHILDREN OF CAMELOT series continues in QUEST OF THE ARTISAN.
Six months ago, seventeen-year-old Rustin Hall thought he knew what he wanted. Then he travelled back in time with his best friend, Mila, to the world of Camelot, knights and magic, and everything changed.
Now Rustin is the artisan, and he knows his future because it's written in the past.
But Rustin's plan to build the first temple for the Gorian druids is cut down like the trees he talks to when the Round Table reveals the name of the newest knight of Camelot: a name that carves fear and unrest into the other knights. With Mila now in danger, Rustin, along with his friends, James and Jalaya, goes on a quest to find her before a new malevolent evil gets there first. A necromancer is building an army of the dead, and they are coming for Arthur's daughter.
Rustin will join forces with a young would-be knight called Galahad, as his quest takes him into the very heart of the Arthurian legends he grew up reading. A quest that could be the end of the artisan's life, not just in Logres, but for good.
Due for release in 2015. I can't wait!!
For more information on Donna's fabulous books:
Amazon
Donna Hosie's blog
Thursday, June 19, 2014
What Makes Me Happy
1. I am officially on summer break from work for 2 and a half months. Although it will be a summer of full days as I catch up on deep cleaning the house and driving children to work, friends, camp etc., I'll finally be able to tackle projects that have been on hold for a month and a half - my WiP being one of them.
2. I'm on Twitter! Not sure whether to say "Yay!" or "Yikes!" or how active I'll be, but thought it was time. If you'd like to follow me, and I feel weird even typing this, I'm at suzmforbes.
2. Yesterday's weather was a humid 90 degrees. After the cold, miserable, never-ending winter (seriously, we had no spring and were getting cold and snow well through April) summer is finally here and I'm ecstatic!
3. I'm beginning a bittersweet side writing project. I haven't quite figured out what exactly it will consist of but it's related to my Dad.
4. Last Saturday I ran and finished my first 5K race! It was a gray, drizzly morning when I woke -- perfect for a race :) I purposely positioned myself toward the back of the pack. What an incredible joy it was to run past cheering family, friends and strangers. The first song on my Running playlist was "It's Time" by Imagine Dragons -- very fitting and the perfect motivation. I felt good the entire time and crossing the finish line was awesome! My time was 40:55 and I came in 192 out of 225 so yeah, I was definitely running at a tortoise pace. But I ran the whole way and and achieved my goal by finishing.
5. Last Saturday night was girls night out at the movies. We all saw The Fault in our Stars together. I brought tissues just in case, but didn't cry. Not unusual for me. My biggest fear was that the actor portraying Augustus wouldn't be able to pull off Green's book Augustus, but Ansel did. No wonder why millions of teenage girls find him swoonworthy. I enjoyed the movie very much.
What's making you happy today?
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
A Different Kind of Debut
As an unpublished writer, I dream of the day when I can announce my literary debut. Until then I'll keep working on my WiP little by little until I'm finished.
But that doesn't mean I can't have a different kind of debut.
All of my kids are runners of varying degree. My girls are involved with track and/or cross country. My son ran in high school and continues to do so for the love and fitness. While on break from college last summer, I witnessed his dedication to training, often in 90 degree weather after working 7 hours. This past fall, he flew home on his semester break, ran a local marathon (coming in first for his age group) with a time of 2:56:52 qualifying him to run the 2015 Boston Marathon if he so chooses. /bragging mom
I was so impressed with my daughters' dedication and my son's accomplishment that I secretly decided that I would start running myself in 2014. There was no way I was going to start out in the fall with winter ahead of me, so I announced that "maybe I would start running" after the winter when it got a little warmer. I got a lot of snickers and "that's nice" pats on the head. Nobody really believed I would start. But I did. You know what my first realization was after I bought new sneakers, charged up my iPod, and started jogging around the track?
Running is hard!
And the thing was, it wasn't the breathing that was hard, it was how my calves felt like lead balloons as I ran. In the beginning, I started at the track and decided I would run/walk for 1 mile (4 times around times = 1 mile). The first day, I ran around once and nearly collapsed, walking the rest of the mile. Once I built up to running a continuous (no walking in between) mile I was ready to tackle road running. My route is three miles of which I jog and walk when I have to. I've found that running on the street has been harder on my calves and knees because of the inclines, the harder surface, and uneven sidewalks. Not to mention avoiding puddles and trash cans! And so my recent strategy has been to alternate between running at the track (which can get monotonous) and on the street.
After about 2 months, I am able to run 2 miles straight now. I love that I'm making progress and more importantly that I'm strengthening my heart. Nobody is making fun of me now.
I have no marathon aspirations. My short term goal was to be able to run a mile and I reached it. My next goal, run in a 5K race. Long term? If I stick with this and my legs can handle it, maybe a half marathon in the future. We'll see. As much as I love writing, the progress I've made has been slow. I really needed something else in my life that I could feel successful at short term. Something to get me away from my computer, from the busyness of everyday life, something just for me.
Any runners out there? What advice would you give a running newbie?
But that doesn't mean I can't have a different kind of debut.
I was so impressed with my daughters' dedication and my son's accomplishment that I secretly decided that I would start running myself in 2014. There was no way I was going to start out in the fall with winter ahead of me, so I announced that "maybe I would start running" after the winter when it got a little warmer. I got a lot of snickers and "that's nice" pats on the head. Nobody really believed I would start. But I did. You know what my first realization was after I bought new sneakers, charged up my iPod, and started jogging around the track?
Running is hard!
And the thing was, it wasn't the breathing that was hard, it was how my calves felt like lead balloons as I ran. In the beginning, I started at the track and decided I would run/walk for 1 mile (4 times around times = 1 mile). The first day, I ran around once and nearly collapsed, walking the rest of the mile. Once I built up to running a continuous (no walking in between) mile I was ready to tackle road running. My route is three miles of which I jog and walk when I have to. I've found that running on the street has been harder on my calves and knees because of the inclines, the harder surface, and uneven sidewalks. Not to mention avoiding puddles and trash cans! And so my recent strategy has been to alternate between running at the track (which can get monotonous) and on the street.
After about 2 months, I am able to run 2 miles straight now. I love that I'm making progress and more importantly that I'm strengthening my heart. Nobody is making fun of me now.
I have no marathon aspirations. My short term goal was to be able to run a mile and I reached it. My next goal, run in a 5K race. Long term? If I stick with this and my legs can handle it, maybe a half marathon in the future. We'll see. As much as I love writing, the progress I've made has been slow. I really needed something else in my life that I could feel successful at short term. Something to get me away from my computer, from the busyness of everyday life, something just for me.
Any runners out there? What advice would you give a running newbie?
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Lookee!
Look what I got my hot little hands on last week! I feel like I've been waiting forever!
Doesn't it make a nice addition to the family?
Now if you'll excuse me, I have a book to read.
Doesn't it make a nice addition to the family?
This time of year is notoriously busy for me. Spring sports means late afternoon/early evening practices and pick ups in different towns, 7:00 pm dinners, catching up on chores at night and weekend special events. My reading time is practically nonexistent during the months of April and May, mainly because by the time I open a book before bed, my eyes can't stay open. And so I'm only on p. 96 out of 613 (I peeked with squinty eyes to see how many glorious Dreams pages I had to look forward to).
However, I'm officially on vacation for a week. And although we have a lot to do (getting ready for Easter, visiting colleges) you better believe I'll be finding the time to immerse myself in Laini Taylor's world. Speaking of which, Laini will be visiting Boston next week to promote her book and there's a slim chance I'll get to meet her again. I was fortunate enough to meet her during her Daughter of Smoke and Bone tour and hope to see her again.
Now if you'll excuse me, I have a book to read.
Friday, March 28, 2014
Sad Days in Boston
Grieving hearts are heavy as we remember two of Boston's finest, Lieutenant Edward Walsh and firefighter Michael Kennedy, who sacrificed their lives to keep others safe. We mourn the loss of these two fine men and are truly grateful for their service. May they rest in peace.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Cover Reveal for THE RING OF MORGANA
She's done it again!
Author and friend, Donna Hosie has been busy, busy, busy. After completing her successful self-published Return to Camelot trilogy in 2013, and later this year releasing Book 1, THE DEVIL'S INTERN, in her next series to be published by Holiday House, in Donna's *cough* spare time *cough* she's working on another series. So without further ado, the cover reveal for Book 1 in her Children of Camelot series, THE RING OF MORGANA.
Two worlds, one thousand years apart. And those worlds are about to collide.
The spirit of the malevolent Lady of the Lake has been contained for sixteen years in the fabled Ring of Morgana. When the ring curses Mila’s younger sister, Lilly, the Roth family has no choice but to return Mila to the land of her birth as they face a battle against time itself.
And now only Mila can save Lilly and Logres.
Author and friend, Donna Hosie has been busy, busy, busy. After completing her successful self-published Return to Camelot trilogy in 2013, and later this year releasing Book 1, THE DEVIL'S INTERN, in her next series to be published by Holiday House, in Donna's *cough* spare time *cough* she's working on another series. So without further ado, the cover reveal for Book 1 in her Children of Camelot series, THE RING OF MORGANA.
In a brand new series, Donna Hosie revisits Logres with THE CHILDREN OF CAMELOT.
Sixteen-year-old Mila Roth wants to be normal. It’s a phrase that has been drilled into her by her mother since she was born.
But Mila Roth is anything but normal. For sixteen years her parents have hidden a secret from her. For Mila was born one thousand years ago in the land of Logres, and far from being a math teacher and a housewife, Mila’s parents are the awakened King Arthur and Gorian druid queen, Morgana.
Sixteen-year-old Mila Roth wants to be normal. It’s a phrase that has been drilled into her by her mother since she was born.
But Mila Roth is anything but normal. For sixteen years her parents have hidden a secret from her. For Mila was born one thousand years ago in the land of Logres, and far from being a math teacher and a housewife, Mila’s parents are the awakened King Arthur and Gorian druid queen, Morgana.
Two worlds, one thousand years apart. And those worlds are about to collide.
The spirit of the malevolent Lady of the Lake has been contained for sixteen years in the fabled Ring of Morgana. When the ring curses Mila’s younger sister, Lilly, the Roth family has no choice but to return Mila to the land of her birth as they face a battle against time itself.
Accompanied by her best friend, Rustin, Mila will have to decide whether to defy those she loves in order to save her sister. Should she trust the Gorian druids and the mysterious Melehan? What is the true cost to Mila’s heart as she strives to master the purple flame? And why have her mother and father denied the truth of her origins for so long?
For she alone has the combined power of royalty and druid magic within her.
And now only Mila can save Lilly and Logres.
THE RING OF MORGANA will be released in ebook and paperback on the 15th June 2014.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Isn't it gorgeous? For more information about Donna Hosie and her books, please visit her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Goodreads Challenge 2014 or The Anal Analysis of How I Set My Reading Goals For the Year
For the past three years I've signed up for the Goodreads Challenge. If you haven't used it before, it's basically a way to challenge yourself to read a certain amount of books and keep track of your progress. I like it a lot but end up feeling like if I don't complete it I'm a loser, which is total hogwash, but who can understand one's own psyche? Mine loves to drive me up a tree and convince me that I failed even though I totally read over 20 books! How can that be a fail? Conclusion: It can't.
Here's a look at my past three Challenges if your interested. The first year I signed up I set my goal way too high.
2011 Goal = 60 books (What was I thinking? Seriously, when did I think I'd have time to read 1 book a week, plus? *Shakes head in disbelief*)
Books Read = 26 (Wake up to reality, hun)
I ended up feeling like I was behind all year and could never catch up to a goal that was completely out of reach by the fall. Didn't feel too good about my goal setting abilities that year and lost sight that I had accomplished reading 26 books. After all, reading is supposed to be relaxing, right?
2012 Goal = 40 books (Much more manageable of a goal until the Whirlwind Spring of '12 hit my life)
Books Read = 27 (Not bad)
This time I figured, okay, 3 books a month =36, plus throw in a few extras during the summer = 40. What I didn't factor in were the multiple, time-consuming family events and many exhausting days/nights that year.
At the beginning of 2013, I re-evaluated my purpose in completing the Goodreads Challenge. Did I want to set an unrealistic, challenging goal and feel that pressure again? No. I wanted to feel good about continuing to read for pleasure in the category I write: Young Adult, with a focus on the genre I prefer, contemporary. AND I wanted to use my free time focused more on my writing. For 2013, I realized that my writing had to be my first priority for free time use, so I set my goal the lowest it had been in the past three years. Guess what happened? I ended up reading MORE!
2013 Goal = 32 books (This time I purposely set my goal lower to relieve the self-induced, bordering on neurotic pressure I put on myself to complete this Challenge)
Books Read = 39 (Yeah, baby!) one was a reread that didn't get added to the GR total)
So this year, I've decided to up my goal a tiny bit higher. My first priority again, is to write during my spare time. This goal ensures that I can continue to read for pleasure during the slower times of the year (like now) and lighten up during the busy months while still reaching a comfortable goal.
2014 Goal = 35 books
Do you set a reading goal for yourself each year? How many books do you hope to read in 2014?
Here's a look at my past three Challenges if your interested. The first year I signed up I set my goal way too high.
2011 Goal = 60 books (What was I thinking? Seriously, when did I think I'd have time to read 1 book a week, plus? *Shakes head in disbelief*)
Books Read = 26 (Wake up to reality, hun)
I ended up feeling like I was behind all year and could never catch up to a goal that was completely out of reach by the fall. Didn't feel too good about my goal setting abilities that year and lost sight that I had accomplished reading 26 books. After all, reading is supposed to be relaxing, right?
2012 Goal = 40 books (Much more manageable of a goal until the Whirlwind Spring of '12 hit my life)
Books Read = 27 (Not bad)
This time I figured, okay, 3 books a month =36, plus throw in a few extras during the summer = 40. What I didn't factor in were the multiple, time-consuming family events and many exhausting days/nights that year.
At the beginning of 2013, I re-evaluated my purpose in completing the Goodreads Challenge. Did I want to set an unrealistic, challenging goal and feel that pressure again? No. I wanted to feel good about continuing to read for pleasure in the category I write: Young Adult, with a focus on the genre I prefer, contemporary. AND I wanted to use my free time focused more on my writing. For 2013, I realized that my writing had to be my first priority for free time use, so I set my goal the lowest it had been in the past three years. Guess what happened? I ended up reading MORE!
2013 Goal = 32 books (This time I purposely set my goal lower to relieve the self-induced, bordering on neurotic pressure I put on myself to complete this Challenge)
Books Read = 39 (Yeah, baby!) one was a reread that didn't get added to the GR total)
So this year, I've decided to up my goal a tiny bit higher. My first priority again, is to write during my spare time. This goal ensures that I can continue to read for pleasure during the slower times of the year (like now) and lighten up during the busy months while still reaching a comfortable goal.
2014 Goal = 35 books
Do you set a reading goal for yourself each year? How many books do you hope to read in 2014?
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Highlights From 2013
I suppose most people have put 2013 behind them by now, but before I join them in putting the year to rest, I have a few reflections. It was a mostly positive year, with one dark cloud which will continue to loom over my family in 2014. Though I may not always be able to see the sun on a dark, cloudy day, I have faith that it still exists on the other side. So, in no particular order, some of my highlights and favorite things from 2013.
1. Writing - What would I do without words? Without characters and stories to create? Probably succumb to watching HGTV 24 hours a day. That channel is seriously addicting.
2. Squash pie from Wilson's - I discovered this pie right before Thanksgiving and had to go back to buy one for Christmas. I may have accidentally hid it in the back of the refrigerator on Christmas until after we had eaten dinner and dessert. Such a shame that the family was too full to eat any.
3. Speaking of refrigerators...My new refrigerator! - After my ol' faithful 20 year old fridge froze its last ice cube a few days before Christmas, it was time to put it to rest. My new one is shiny and white and doesn't have handles. It's sparkly with it's LED lights and oh, so clean. I never thought I'd become enamored with a kitchen appliance, but I'm smitten.
4. Pope Francis - I love that this simple man of faith is leading my Church and I'm hopeful for its future.
5. The University of Notre Dame
6. My family - There were so many joyful moments that made my heart soar this past year: birth of a new baby, wedding with a story behind it that makes me tear up every time I tell someone (and the addition of our Chloe), my parents moving back from Florida, celebrating sacraments together: First Communion, Confirmation, Baptism - we are truly blessed. There were/are some difficult events that we struggled with and will continue to face in 2014 but we're strong, resilient, and hopeful.
7. One of those joyful family events...My son running, finishing, and in his category, winning a marathon.
He trained last summer, often running 8 to 15 miles in the heat. This past fall, on his fall break from college, he flew home and ran in a local marathon. His time, just under 3 hours, qualified him for the Boston Marathon in 2015. He is such an inspiration to me and I'm so proud of him.
8. My friends, J and T, blog about their child and how she has changed their lives in the best possible way. It's a peek into their private lives and the little joys that come with their child's discoveries and growth. Their posts put a smile on my face as I remember my own brood when they were that young. I look forward to every post!
9. Downton Abbey - Yes, I am bandwagon jumper on-er. After mispronouncing the name of this hit show for two years (kind of like how I mispronounced Hermione's name until I listened to a Harry Potter audiobook. Doh!), my oldest daughter and I decided to borrow the DVDs for the past 3 seasons to see what all the hype was about. Well, it only took a few episodes to hook us and I'm so excited about season 4. Can't wait to find out what happens to the residents and staff of my favorite English residence.
10. My comfy Clarks. Worth every penny.
What were some of your favorite things or moments of 2013? I'd love for you to share them in the comments below.
1. Writing - What would I do without words? Without characters and stories to create? Probably succumb to watching HGTV 24 hours a day. That channel is seriously addicting.
2. Squash pie from Wilson's - I discovered this pie right before Thanksgiving and had to go back to buy one for Christmas. I may have accidentally hid it in the back of the refrigerator on Christmas until after we had eaten dinner and dessert. Such a shame that the family was too full to eat any.
3. Speaking of refrigerators...My new refrigerator! - After my ol' faithful 20 year old fridge froze its last ice cube a few days before Christmas, it was time to put it to rest. My new one is shiny and white and doesn't have handles. It's sparkly with it's LED lights and oh, so clean. I never thought I'd become enamored with a kitchen appliance, but I'm smitten.
4. Pope Francis - I love that this simple man of faith is leading my Church and I'm hopeful for its future.
5. The University of Notre Dame
6. My family - There were so many joyful moments that made my heart soar this past year: birth of a new baby, wedding with a story behind it that makes me tear up every time I tell someone (and the addition of our Chloe), my parents moving back from Florida, celebrating sacraments together: First Communion, Confirmation, Baptism - we are truly blessed. There were/are some difficult events that we struggled with and will continue to face in 2014 but we're strong, resilient, and hopeful.
7. One of those joyful family events...My son running, finishing, and in his category, winning a marathon.
He trained last summer, often running 8 to 15 miles in the heat. This past fall, on his fall break from college, he flew home and ran in a local marathon. His time, just under 3 hours, qualified him for the Boston Marathon in 2015. He is such an inspiration to me and I'm so proud of him.
8. My friends, J and T, blog about their child and how she has changed their lives in the best possible way. It's a peek into their private lives and the little joys that come with their child's discoveries and growth. Their posts put a smile on my face as I remember my own brood when they were that young. I look forward to every post!
9. Downton Abbey - Yes, I am bandwagon jumper on-er. After mispronouncing the name of this hit show for two years (kind of like how I mispronounced Hermione's name until I listened to a Harry Potter audiobook. Doh!), my oldest daughter and I decided to borrow the DVDs for the past 3 seasons to see what all the hype was about. Well, it only took a few episodes to hook us and I'm so excited about season 4. Can't wait to find out what happens to the residents and staff of my favorite English residence.
10. My comfy Clarks. Worth every penny.
What were some of your favorite things or moments of 2013? I'd love for you to share them in the comments below.
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Favorite 2013 Reads
My Goodreads reading goal for 2013 was to read 26 books. To my delight, I surpassed this goal in the fall and reset it for 32. As of December 31, 2013 I finished reading 39 novels! It was a great year for YA fiction and it's going to be hard to narrow down my favorites, but I suspect that some of mine are on your favorites list as well. In no particular order:
Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein - I love a book with a gut-wrenching twist.
Just One Day/Just One Year - Gayle Forman is back! Just sayin'.
Fangirl - I categorize this as NA. Another great book by Rainbow Rowell.
Shine - Lauren Myracle - How did I neglect reading this for so long? Wonderful!
Prodigy - Marie Lu - The Legend series; Most trilogies I've read or started reading have a weak book. Not this one. Champion will be my first read in 2014.
Days of Blood and Starlight - Laini Taylor, enough said.
Wintergirls (reread) - Laurie Halse Anderson - Perfect.
The Fifth Wave - Rick Yancey, I love your writing.
Chaos Walking series - Patrick Ness, I love yours, too.
The Cuckoo's Calling - Robert Galbraith - Jo, you sneaky devil! Refreshing. Renewed my love for mystery/detective books with great characterization.
And because Neil Gaiman's brilliant, even when he's writing a blog post, The Ocean at the End of the Lane - Good creepy stuff!
I'll keep my 2013 list visible on the right of this homepage for a few more days in case you're looking for recommendations for your 2014 TBR list. After that I'll post the list under my Books Read tab where you will find my 2012 and 2013 list. If your're interested I will be adding my 2014 reads to the right sidebar on this page as well as what I'm currently reading.
Also, a special shout out to my two friends who were published this year. Donna K. Weaver and Donna Hosie.
I'm so proud of these women and happy to count them as friends. I wish them continued success and can't wait to see how they'll use their talents this year.
What were your favorite reads of 2013? Were any of mine on your list? What must read book should I add to my 2014 TBR list?
Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein - I love a book with a gut-wrenching twist.
Just One Day/Just One Year - Gayle Forman is back! Just sayin'.
Fangirl - I categorize this as NA. Another great book by Rainbow Rowell.
Shine - Lauren Myracle - How did I neglect reading this for so long? Wonderful!
Prodigy - Marie Lu - The Legend series; Most trilogies I've read or started reading have a weak book. Not this one. Champion will be my first read in 2014.
Days of Blood and Starlight - Laini Taylor, enough said.
Wintergirls (reread) - Laurie Halse Anderson - Perfect.
The Fifth Wave - Rick Yancey, I love your writing.
Chaos Walking series - Patrick Ness, I love yours, too.
The Cuckoo's Calling - Robert Galbraith - Jo, you sneaky devil! Refreshing. Renewed my love for mystery/detective books with great characterization.
And because Neil Gaiman's brilliant, even when he's writing a blog post, The Ocean at the End of the Lane - Good creepy stuff!
I'll keep my 2013 list visible on the right of this homepage for a few more days in case you're looking for recommendations for your 2014 TBR list. After that I'll post the list under my Books Read tab where you will find my 2012 and 2013 list. If your're interested I will be adding my 2014 reads to the right sidebar on this page as well as what I'm currently reading.
Also, a special shout out to my two friends who were published this year. Donna K. Weaver and Donna Hosie.
I'm so proud of these women and happy to count them as friends. I wish them continued success and can't wait to see how they'll use their talents this year.
What were your favorite reads of 2013? Were any of mine on your list? What must read book should I add to my 2014 TBR list?
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