tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42489412052558616192024-02-07T11:13:28.070-08:00DaybreakInAutumnExploring the wonders of LIFE ^_^ as an aspiring author and poetLynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-82395505157205083422017-01-26T06:00:00.000-08:002017-01-31T06:51:23.613-08:00Moving to Wordpress...!<span style="font-size: large;">My latest post was in March 2016??? O_O</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That probably merits some explaining. Ha. Well, long story short, Astrid Naomi Carroll was born :) and I went into social hibernation for many reasons, but mostly because I was overwhelmed, and when I get overwhelmed, all things social die first. Sorry. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As for Astrid, she is a healthy and (mostly) happy almost 8 month old. Last night I determined--again?--that her toddler years will be fearsome because she is ridiculously stubborn (where does she get </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">that </span></i><span style="font-size: large;">from?! >.>) and quick to tell us when she's not thrilled about something. The struggle is especially real when it comes to changing her diaper. *sigh*</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This post is actually more of a tip of the hat to YOU, dear reader. Thanks for joining me on this sporadic journey! Now that it's 2017, I've decided it's finally time to move to Wordpress--a complete reboot. It's been fun, but I've been contemplating the move for a while. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To everyone who read the mad, oft-random and rambling posts of mine, THANK YOU. Your support goes beyond words. Thanks for sticking around!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you're free and willing, I invite you to celebrate the move/reboot of </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">DaybreakInAutumn</span></i><span style="font-size: large;"> with me. First post will be live </span><b><span style="font-size: large;">January 31st</span></b><span style="font-size: large;">!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~~~~</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's the link to the <a href="https://daybreakinautumn.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">new blog</a> :)! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you want to find it later without following this link, the domain is currently 'daybreakinautumn' instead of 'lynannecarroll'.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-8579402754023643622016-03-31T06:00:00.000-07:002016-03-31T06:00:07.189-07:00It's a...<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Last post of the month of March...! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm always saying things like this, but I can't believe it's already April. April 2016. How crazy is that?!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This post is really my way of reaching out to people about the newest addition to my family, coming (Lord willing) in June. I'm so excited *_*! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I announced to work and family very early on because of symptoms—nausea, difficulty breathing (prenatals helped), and a hyper-sense of smell. Ok, *a* sense of smell, because before I became pregnant, I didn't have one. But it was still intense. I actually had to bring dryer sheets to the grocery store because I couldn't take the smell of particular sections (I'm looking at you, deli, seafood, and meat -_-)...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I'm currently 28 weeks along—aka 7 months—and wanted to share some pictures of our gender reveal. If you're unfamiliar with the term, it's basically a fun party where people come together to eat a few snacks and discover the gender of the baby. We decided to do a chocolate theme because it was in February, and used the famous Gump line on our invites (Life is like a box of chocolates...). Then we (translation: the fam, at their insistence) wrapped up a bunch of hershey bars. Only one was colored in and would reveal the gender.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I wish I'd caught the reveal on video T_T. It was so funny and sweet (pun not intended...but well played lol)! The person who got the winning candy bar was so excited she screamed and then, out of breath, was unable to share the information with everyone else until she took a moment to regain herself. It was a wonderful feeling, having someone as excited as us about the baby. I will treasure that moment for many years to come!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some pics:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmPO_WcNwjcKgGLx1JokCKq-nwdKo6mzUmyZgm6g5krCHvkR4TKqBsBgLLF80RVrtMjj_dazxB0Qp_yc5NTgOqCtlH3TKGvjYobq987dfeBQ_VAtmbbES2Wpvjpg2oLxQ9f460208WQE/s1600/2016-02-06+13.50.07-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmPO_WcNwjcKgGLx1JokCKq-nwdKo6mzUmyZgm6g5krCHvkR4TKqBsBgLLF80RVrtMjj_dazxB0Qp_yc5NTgOqCtlH3TKGvjYobq987dfeBQ_VAtmbbES2Wpvjpg2oLxQ9f460208WQE/s320/2016-02-06+13.50.07-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The food was delicious ^_^. Also, plentiful</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipg7gjUORQl5bbmfBlFNLYC2kDLUOofmgSv298RqGePvfskTXYgf_cy9XSKC_JVlJUYKqXLEkwjTRXb2nwnOGbHDLbUYHurmWUW9Gwcmooq2_7LUbLewb5AS-TIAECakmyDJkL5GNfjaI/s1600/2016-02-06+13.50.20-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipg7gjUORQl5bbmfBlFNLYC2kDLUOofmgSv298RqGePvfskTXYgf_cy9XSKC_JVlJUYKqXLEkwjTRXb2nwnOGbHDLbUYHurmWUW9Gwcmooq2_7LUbLewb5AS-TIAECakmyDJkL5GNfjaI/s320/2016-02-06+13.50.20-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The cupcakes I slaved over. If you ever decide to make your own frosting, reconsider. Trust me. <br />(Did you notice someone made off with a blueberry?)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-6EPxqLRQGuLfUmrH8Bhg_sad5O_O16mxhg0EdBMfN0zOPtcYcV87ZlCAFnvXadGM2kphdgOi0ObmPHWVuBUFmgKPdhLApTt5tj4J6sJUVBvYU84Yz4dQLsa5OLvr8Ozp6zM4TIEpBI/s1600/2016-02-06+13.51.42-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-6EPxqLRQGuLfUmrH8Bhg_sad5O_O16mxhg0EdBMfN0zOPtcYcV87ZlCAFnvXadGM2kphdgOi0ObmPHWVuBUFmgKPdhLApTt5tj4J6sJUVBvYU84Yz4dQLsa5OLvr8Ozp6zM4TIEpBI/s320/2016-02-06+13.51.42-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Each table had a super cute centerpiece and a different candy. <br />I quickly banned myself from Skittles b/c necessary.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLt8KaYOSUIVZzdhcmd00flo1W6UN1kjTd-d0MtatsgJTuUw1beewS3QBJ1dWTSSZV9PuBuJFvmryOGwcgktn4533aFdZmr5HBpYsF_EyOgF6hnlrYY-zZ4ks5EluavOs4Ku8US-vkkM/s1600/2016-02-06+13.51.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLt8KaYOSUIVZzdhcmd00flo1W6UN1kjTd-d0MtatsgJTuUw1beewS3QBJ1dWTSSZV9PuBuJFvmryOGwcgktn4533aFdZmr5HBpYsF_EyOgF6hnlrYY-zZ4ks5EluavOs4Ku8US-vkkM/s320/2016-02-06+13.51.02.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So many hershey bars...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga30r51FwYPHfqIpF0pPs3o6UQBVb9XCsDnutiuywihHx2lELCqsxrIC5GiX5ZmCe8Nt__HAwOIirwNl8nW6zMoLqYCxKy0xk26atcAwTn9uHhobwHXrCEJMHh041Uxw-m6MkkVy9TK6Y/s1600/2016-02-06+16.30.40-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga30r51FwYPHfqIpF0pPs3o6UQBVb9XCsDnutiuywihHx2lELCqsxrIC5GiX5ZmCe8Nt__HAwOIirwNl8nW6zMoLqYCxKy0xk26atcAwTn9uHhobwHXrCEJMHh041Uxw-m6MkkVy9TK6Y/s320/2016-02-06+16.30.40-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">It's a GIRL!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5F-cGI2i72yFIahv1iJK0t-SwEf9cM3xaC2gT0JLrqk-9cBue8l_J-e71T-8Jw46K54OfdagW6qRdo2W8zZKLT0IchaPv7uHcKlFGsmXtzOiK6CjD5RYXLXMs-Aj7WguARR9bnS0mhI/s1600/IMG_25151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5F-cGI2i72yFIahv1iJK0t-SwEf9cM3xaC2gT0JLrqk-9cBue8l_J-e71T-8Jw46K54OfdagW6qRdo2W8zZKLT0IchaPv7uHcKlFGsmXtzOiK6CjD5RYXLXMs-Aj7WguARR9bnS0mhI/s320/IMG_25151.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Wait, what?<br /> (Just kidding. It looks like that was what was going through our minds, though)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVGIT6xMkN55ZANFbZabuXmhnceuDwJDGPe4vzgVzr5kPcttygqh_ERxWo6MAl2dAGalDuVuCDop9hORNiYtVZviIVl1O6BBzfhFvh3oCQuETVSklqmsm_3SS87Ws0t9WpoxbbRdVO8z4/s1600/IMG_20731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVGIT6xMkN55ZANFbZabuXmhnceuDwJDGPe4vzgVzr5kPcttygqh_ERxWo6MAl2dAGalDuVuCDop9hORNiYtVZviIVl1O6BBzfhFvh3oCQuETVSklqmsm_3SS87Ws0t9WpoxbbRdVO8z4/s320/IMG_20731.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I imagine I was getting onto Chris for not smiling. It worked! :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9UxFi83mqFRetGedfVF-9EzvvZ1vBrY5iBJOAtnlVNPgEcqJnSfFfgvZC45dS2ECd83ok5dhmui71Va2lGwnH2pTJl10PEy9sVyEqNz6JTvmdwrUUPgq3YI2sjTSElrqqz92roxGcX4/s1600/IMG_68611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9UxFi83mqFRetGedfVF-9EzvvZ1vBrY5iBJOAtnlVNPgEcqJnSfFfgvZC45dS2ECd83ok5dhmui71Va2lGwnH2pTJl10PEy9sVyEqNz6JTvmdwrUUPgq3YI2sjTSElrqqz92roxGcX4/s320/IMG_68611.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I look hesitant about something...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPSs3Kjn7QBtY9ckb91iCYDBdPmfHq36tsMzPFZoi2NVQs1j3UjL9SXpU12iTPlyyOlqquw34I-PmakuSsHG_0wnxMCIe7E-uKj35yOHEsTJMfKmv8ynD99ELlEX5npnWdvT7p3UZ6I-E/s1600/IMG_14011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPSs3Kjn7QBtY9ckb91iCYDBdPmfHq36tsMzPFZoi2NVQs1j3UjL9SXpU12iTPlyyOlqquw34I-PmakuSsHG_0wnxMCIe7E-uKj35yOHEsTJMfKmv8ynD99ELlEX5npnWdvT7p3UZ6I-E/s320/IMG_14011.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My favorite blooper pic: super confused! <br />I think our niece was doing something crazy LOL</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Welp, that's it! Hope you enjoyed the virtual reveal (even if you already knew the gender). I'll be posting again Wednesday (or...whatever day is the 7th) for PAD!</span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-980519531117195992016-03-28T07:24:00.000-07:002016-03-28T07:24:12.725-07:00The Forbidden Wish Jessica Khoury *Review*<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTiSXMsxPBM4mtqNyNA8dLujpUhsENztRhjEXZn04CgTiuAvWat3YU5e9gYNnOBePnj71SWrUZz7G3yTgiQpeFVilwOTmWojhCsBpwVHdmcaEo2KMOm7f0Sz9BvTSPu7YfDFJu3eIpWpY/s1600/TheForbiddenWish+final+cvr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTiSXMsxPBM4mtqNyNA8dLujpUhsENztRhjEXZn04CgTiuAvWat3YU5e9gYNnOBePnj71SWrUZz7G3yTgiQpeFVilwOTmWojhCsBpwVHdmcaEo2KMOm7f0Sz9BvTSPu7YfDFJu3eIpWpY/s400/TheForbiddenWish+final+cvr.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As a <i>huge</i> Khoury fan, I was so excited about this novel I obviously pre-ordered and dove in the moment it was released. (And yes, I did attempt—more times than I'd like to mention—to get an arc, but was tragically unsuccessful.) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I love Khoury's style. I love the thrill ride she invites me on with her exquisite pacing, the immersion I experience by absorbing the world she's built via lush, lyrical prose, and the unique angle(s) she presents. All of these and more are reasons why I'm so conflicted (and sad) about this review. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I would like to say that I absolutely, with-all-my-heart-and-soul loved The Forbidden Wish...but I'd be lying. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Forbidden Wish is easily Khoury's best work: the characters are flesh and blood, living and breathing in the pages; the pacing, as always, is phenomenal, and the plot riveting—some truly wonderul twists!—not to mention the brilliance of the subject matter (retelling of <i>ALADDIN?</i> Can you say radiance??!); her trademark prose (aka gorgeous) continues to impress; and there isn't a plot hole in sight. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's extremely well written and well-thought-through. I loved the characters and their complexity (and quirks). I loved the spin on Aladdin. I loved the immensity of scope involved in making the world and its rules believable. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What went wrong?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well...that's just it. In the world of YA, Khoury has hit a triple homerun. The novel fits the genre perfectly and I can see her topping charts and receiving well-deserved praise for her work alongside uber-popular authors. And again, the work truly is fabulous. So it's less what went wrong and more what went <i>right</i>. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One of the biggest reasons I fell in love with Khoury's work—aside from her impressive storytelling ability—is that I could always count on it being original and easily distinguishable from its YA counterparts. Were her other novels as advanced in terms of style and execution as The Forbidden Wish? No. Origin had a few questionable aspects, Vitro's romance was a bit lacking at points, and Kalahari's characters, while endearing, needed a nudge to cast off. The Forbidden Wish has none of these issues. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Instead, Zahra's voice, while acceptable and fitting and well done, disappoints solely because it sounds so similar to others in the YA world. Same goes for the romance...even for the themes. I feel like a loser and a betrayer for writing this review T_T, but these are my honest sentiments. I'm happy Khoury penned a great novel. I'm sad that, to me, it can be lumped in with so many other greats instead of beaming from a pinnacle. In my eyes, Origin will always, <i>always</i> be set apart—same goes for Vitro and Kalahari. But The Forbidden Wish, for all its wonder, lacks that trademark spark. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In case I haven't made this clear: there is literally no fault to be found in TFW; the novel is exciting and well worth the read, especially if retellings are your thing. My issue is completely personal (and subjective). I don't want to deter anyone from picking up this book because IT IS PHENOMENAL and deserves every morsel of praise it receives. And cover. love <3 <3 <3...! It just wasn't what I was hoping for. </span></div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;">Final Verdict:</b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.facebook.com/authorjesskhoury" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://www.twitter.com/jkbibliophile" target="_blank">Twitter @jkbibliophile</a> | <a href="http://instagram.com/authorjess" target="_blank">Instagram</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://pinterest.com/jesskhoury/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="http://www.wattpad.com/user/AuthorJessicaKhoury" target="_blank">Wattpad</a> | <a href="http://jnkhoury.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.jessicakhoury.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>About the Author</b> </span></div>
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<strike style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: x-large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_IeOMlPuDLlZYve129y7-0yYlMKMbiq_iBgUAo1ZG9Zg6xx99l_ZPmDcq73D6X16C1l3Tpolu38hnWZ7QXEL_i5pFELYtB_IEZGxBHEcZuniFda5clxIgtAhTk4fkuqQhyiPaQQT8HI/s320/Jessica+Khoury+Beeman-2.jpg" width="211" /></strike><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Jessica Khoury is of Syrian and Scottish descent, and was born and raised in Toccoa, Georgia. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Toccoa Falls College. She currently lives and writes in Greenville, SC. Jessica is the author of ORIGIN, VITRO, KALAHARI, and THE FORBIDDEN WISH. </span></span></span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-7032055045285337752016-03-25T07:37:00.001-07:002016-03-25T07:37:48.621-07:00Charging (somewhat weakly) into April<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I haven't given up on posting consistently, but putting it bluntly: I've been put out lately. Whenever I think about the blog, I'm just like...eh, maybe later...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And I know that's kind of lame. ...Ok, very lame? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Still, with all the things that have changed—mainly having a baby due in June (*nesting* and house preparation, exhaustion, financial stress, worrying and praying and more worrying because worrying is what mothers do, eating all the things and having the weight—but not the appearance, apparently; “all belly”—to show for it) and Chris' workplace deciding they'll still have him work full time, but only 30 hours (translation: he now works 3 days a week and they think this is remotely acceptable for the breadwinner of the family...uhhh NO, try again ::hulk smash::)—life has been messy, and blogging has been one of the smaller concerns on a growing list. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That said, I'm still just as ambitious—or, if you prefer and are a realist, CRAZY—and have decided to take on my first Camp NaNo adventure and embrace the PAD Challenge for the second time. I'm planning to revise ~50% of Whispers and Murmurs during Camp; already have my fabulous cabinmates picked out, and am loving it. And of course I'm planning on being a boss at writing poems :D haha.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm also flying to Vermont in 5 days to see family for the first time in almost 4 years. April is a busy, busy month...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>So...what now? </b></span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'll post my review of The Forbidden Wish by Jessica Khoury before the month is up.</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Also our gender reveal...because the pictures amuse me and why not? (:</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In April, I'm going to post my PAD accomplishments here once a week, just as I did last year, and will be sharing information about it tomorrow because GUYS, PAD is so, so fun. Even if you don't fancy yourself a poet, you should try it out. </span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the meantime, I hope everyone enjoys spring break!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cheers!</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">About Camp NaNo and PAD:</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://campnanowrimo.org/" target="_blank">Camp NaNoWriMo</a> is a virtual writer’s retreat, designed for maximum flexibility and creativity. We have Camp sessions in both April and July, and we welcome word-count goals between 30 and 1,000,000. In addition, writers can tackle any project they’d like, including new novel drafts, revision, poetry, scripts, and short stories.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Young writer? Check out Camp deets <a href="http://ywp.nanowrimo.org/camp-nanowrimo" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>PAD...with Robert Lee Brewer:</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">PAD stands for <a href="http://www.writersdigest.com/whats-new/2016-april-pad-challenge-guidelines" target="_blank">Poem-A-Day</a>, so this is a challenge in which poets write a poem each day of April. Usually, I’ll post a prompt in the morning (Atlanta, Georgia, time), and poets will write a poem in response.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Some poets share those poems on the (Writer's Digest) blog in the comments; others keep their words to themselves. I don’t require comments on the blog to participate, but it does make it more fun when poets are firing away on the blog.</span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-90304843198497256712016-01-20T09:37:00.000-08:002016-01-20T09:37:44.692-08:00The Gift Of Forgiveness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">A long time ago—say about 6-7 years?—I approached my mother and asked her forgiveness. I have no memory of what I said or did that I felt compelled to apologize for, but I do remember that I was prompted by the Spirit to do so because it was the upstanding, righteous thing to do...and I also recall that it wasn't anything major. <br><br>Her response?</span><span style="font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><br>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I don't know. I'll have to think about it. </i></span><br><span style="font-size: large;">…</span><br><span style="font-size: large;"><i>I don't know if I'll ever be ready to forgive you.</i></span><br><span style="font-size: large;"><br>Without any hint of melodrama I can assure you her response speared my heart. I came to this person—<b>my own mother</b>—with an open, hopeful heart expecting at least a grudging 'ok'. Maybe an 'I'm still angry, but I forgive you.' Or maybe even 'I'm not really ready to forgive you yet, but thank you for apologizing. I just need some time.' <br><br><i>I don't know</i>. </span><br>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I can still hear the venom in her voice as she said these words with a bitter, satisfied look in her eyes. The message was clear: I deserved to feel terrible for what I'd done/said. And feel terrible I did, but not because of what I'd done; I was sincerely apologetic. There was nothing more I could do. My conscience was clear. <br><br>I still felt terrible, however, because of the denial. To her, there was little to no hope of pardon, a thing which she took immense satisfaction from. I was stunned, of course; when someone bares their heart to you like I did to my mother, you don't sit there and question whether or not you know if you can forgive them, too busy considering how much saying so will hurt the other person. It is cruel and unusual punishment of the worst kind. <br><br>That moment so scarred me it nullified everything else surrounding the occasion (hence why I can't remember what I was even apologizing for). In the years since, I've never asked someone for their forgiveness. If I wrong them I simply apologize and move on. But I don't ask for their forgiveness. The wound went too deep. The only One I can manage to ask without the words sticking in my throat until I give up is</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> God, Who is trustworthy and always graciously forgives me. </span></span><br>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br>You're probably wondering why I'm bothering to tell you all this. </span><br>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is why: because forgiveness is precious. It is hope and redemption, and to deny someone—especially someone who is sincerely repentant—those things is despicable and shameful. </span><br>
<a href="http://lynannecarroll.blogspot.com/2016/01/the-gift-of-forgiveness.html#more">Read more »</a>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-26231505834216471062015-12-22T09:45:00.000-08:002015-12-22T09:45:13.203-08:00SPHERES #2: Yellow **NaNoWriMo Excerpt(s)**<br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So this past month I participated in NaNoWriMo, which was STELLAR. Seriously. I had so much fun taking a much-needed break from the ultra-structured Whispers and Murmurs and moving into the more spontaneous territory of the second book of the series, Yellow. Working with Yellow's protagonist, Kara, was nothing short of thrilling. </span></div>
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Kara is one of those characters whose charisma grips you and refuses to let go...and you are totally ok with it. Also, not going to even try to deny this, she's so easy to work with. She lets me know exactly what she wants, where she intends to go, and doesn't waste time deliberating *long hard stare at Nikaiya* which is almost the complete opposite of Nikaiya, who, while reckless at points, is a strategist at heart and “wastes time” thinking about, well, pretty much everything. I'm making Nikaiya sound annoying. She's really not; just difficult to prod into cooperating... </div>
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Yellow also proved easier to navigate despite—ironically—being much more convoluted. We're talking timey-wimeyness here, peeps. But unlike in Whispers and Murmurs, where literally everything is structured down to the word count per chapter, Yellow offers an abundance of wiggle room provided all the key scenes are put into the novel. Obviously I have an order to it; just a much more lenient one. </div>
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(Short glimpse into the somewhat stifling structure of W&M: each of the 32 chapters is exactly 3,125 words long...to total exactly 100,000 words.)</div>
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I put forth that I wanted to share a few bits of my efforts—efforts which resulted in about 20k! Woot considering circumstances, which I'll again hopefully be announcing soon. Next week? :D—and now I'm finally getting to do so. Yay!</div>
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What you're about to see is the unadulterated rough draft of rough drafts—meaning none of this has been edited at all. Not for grammar or spelling, syntax, or logical consistency...so please keep that in mind while reading! Don't be too worried, though; my grammar isn't impeccable but it isn't atrocious, either (same goes for spelling). And brackets? My lifeline for brain farts. I love brackets. </div>
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To avoid some spoilers and such, I had to blot out a character's name (sorry!). I'm really excited—and a bit nervous—to share this because 1) as expressed above, it's NaNo-style rough; and 2) I'm afraid to be giving away too much at once before I've even finished the draft! Nevertheless, this is something I wanted to do to give a peek into my first NaNo experience. </div>
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Hopefully you find it encouraging—maybe enough to tackle NaNo yourself next year?! </div>
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Here's my (also) rough synopsis. It desperately needs help, but will suffice for the moment:</div>
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<i>For Kara, a girl who’s cursed with the rare and volatile affliction known as Ipsen's Syndrome and who’s haunted by the tragic event that triggered its manifestation, existence is a nightmare she longs to wake up from. Despite numerous treatments, counseling sessions, and continuous outpouring of love from her family and few remaining friends, she has yet to recover. In one last attempt to at least lessen the effects of the curse, Kara’s parents allow her to travel to Mydoria with a family friend.</i></div>
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<i>Upon arrival, the pair is shocked; Miaka, the eldest princess, insists Kara accompany her if she desires to receive healing—and miraculously, once the process is complete, Kara’s migraines are gone. Thus when Miaka requests the pair’s aid in helping Nikaiya accomplish her quest, both willingly oblige; Mikael, because he believes this journey could be the answer they’ve been searching for; Kara, because she has been given a sliver of hope, and wishes to thank Miaka.</i></div>
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<i>Shortly after departing Mydoria, Kara encounters a priestess from Hikari, and is challenged to confront her precarious past—to come to terms with what happened, and with what could be: to embrace the redemption she's really been searching for all along—if it exists.</i></div>
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<i>She could refuse.</i></div>
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<i>But if she does, she'll lose herself and those she holds most dear—for good this time.</i></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Onto the Story...</span></b></div>
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*Mikael's name will probably change :)</div>
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<b>Tidbit #1:</b></div>
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>When I listen carefully, I hear the flow of water. The water underneath us…it’s moving. And much faster than it should be. My legs threaten to give way beneath me as Mikael’s shouts pierce the air. It hurts to breathe. His voice echoes along the river, carrying an eerie note of foreboding. Run, he’s saying. <i>RUN</i>!</div>
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>I spin, forcing my legs to move back to *****. He must have seen the river breaking from atop the slope. If we don’t get off the ice, we’re all going to die. </div>
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<a href="http://lynannecarroll.blogspot.com/2015/12/spheres-2-yellow-nanowrimo-excerpts.html#more">Read more »</a>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-17828771684894576322015-12-01T08:54:00.001-08:002015-12-01T08:54:11.500-08:00The Lemorian Crest Hannah L. Clark **Review**<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwSydN0lm9MNCSYltp8M5LHQLsFGS1ErorkjMxao1B2ifZLfgdoh9f4CEulNgb2ltuDylrkyeRh8MPLhmTPqsXy6ia91KtV3JxQAkdy02UZwGuASRdcCt5koxZFWeeFTBKkCWsi1UhL2F/s1600/LemorianCrest_FC_BlueBNG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwSydN0lm9MNCSYltp8M5LHQLsFGS1ErorkjMxao1B2ifZLfgdoh9f4CEulNgb2ltuDylrkyeRh8MPLhmTPqsXy6ia91KtV3JxQAkdy02UZwGuASRdcCt5koxZFWeeFTBKkCWsi1UhL2F/s1600/LemorianCrest_FC_BlueBNG.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another gorgeous cover! :3</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">**I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest and fair review. Thank you!**</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As with the first installment, Uncovering Cobbogoth, there's a mountain range of potential in The Lemorian Crest. The world of New Cobbogoth is every bit as creative and enthralling as I'd hoped—and more—and combined with its unique history, mythos, and bits of legislation, it's nothing short of phenomenal. Clark's world-building is easily her strongest suit. Although I didn't feel the book lived up to its full potential, I loved that the backstory and history of the Cobbogothians went much deeper than a single book could allow. (Hence the series. Epicness :-) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">By utilizing letters and scrolls in ruins to relay the history of the Gihara, Clark further brought New Cobbogoth to life. In combination with the flashbacks and the visions, it was admittedly a little overwhelming, but I favored the texture it brought to the story. Speaking of story...it was a bit tropey. One moment I would be enamored and impressed with the approach and execution of the prophecy bits and the next I'd feel like the whole thing was slightly overdone and hard to believe. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Overall, the plot was decent, the world-building was (again) phenomenal, and the background, in general, was pretty entertaining...but the not-so-stellar pacing and the Mary-Sue/flat characterization distracted me, detracting from and dragging down what would otherwise be a fantastic novel. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the first novel, the pacing issue was in large part due to the numerous flashbacks. The second installment vastly improved in this area; however, the flashbacks were replaced with visions. Granted, they were interesting, but there comes a point when enough is enough. Shoehorning, also an issue in Uncovering Cobbogoth, again happened a fair amount...but honestly, I didn't really mind when it came to the world because the world is incredible. What I minded was when it came down to people.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The <i>real</i> pacing issue, though, was <b>aimless dialogue</b>. Too much time was spent dilly-dallying in literally pointless conversation. As a writer, this irked me; if it has no point, if it does not further the novel, it goes. Or at least it should. But as a reader, it was beyond aggravating. No one wants to waste their time flipping through pages of dialogue that accomplish nothing! If I wanted to subject myself to that, I'd read my cereal box. (I actually <i>do</i> like reading my cereal box, but that's because I'm weird.) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When I read a novel, I expect there to be a reason why people are talking. They have something important to share with me, something to help the protagonist along. SOMETHING. And when they don't? -_____- <-----This is the face I make, and then I proceed to skim...and skim...and skim until something significant presents itself and I can, once again, immerse myself in the story. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sure, the characters were interesting—well, most of them—but no character is THAT interesting, not even Harry Potter. It was too bad, really.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And Noria (aka Nor aka Norah aka Nilla aka Lune-kyndie aka The Haven). Oh, Noria. To be blunt, she was tragically annoying as ever. I've come to conclude that we just don't mix well; sometimes a protagonist has a lot to offer but you still don't resonate with them. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She's stubborn, foolish, and reckless...yet is supposed to be incredibly smart...? Sounds like my first WIP's protagonist. But unlike with my character, I never truly saw or felt said supposed intelligence. Nor's judgment and decisions also seemed inconsistent, almost as if she was trying to be two or three different people. It was difficult for me to get a grip on her character.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In her defense, she came a long way since the first novel. It was a vast improvement and I enjoyed this Norah more than the previous Norah...just not enough to actually resonate with and/or like her. Again, cue bitter disappointment because POTENTIAL.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Overall, The Lemorian Crest is captivating enough to at least try. The world is like nothing I've ever come across: whimsical, believable, and utterly fantastical. And who knows—maybe you'll love Noria! Definitely worth a chance, especially for MG readers.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Final Verdict: </b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25773335-the-lemorian-crest?from_search=true&search_version=service" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lemorian-Crest-Book-Cobbogoth-Uncovering/dp/1514655276/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448981126&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Lemorian+Crest" target="_blank">Amazon</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>About the Author </b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Hannah L. Clark lives with her husband and two children in the Rocky Mountains. She has always known she would be a storyteller. In 2006 she graduated from Utah Valley University with a bachelor's degree in English and immediately began writing her first novel.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Uncovering Cobbogoth was Clark's first book in the seven book Cobbogoth series based on her mythological brain-child, The Legend of the Cobbogothians. It was released in May 2014 through Cedar Fort Publishing. Book 2 in the series, The Lemorian Crest will be released in Summer 2015.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Clark loves running, mythology, singing while playing the guitar, herbal tea, escaping into imaginary worlds, and being with her peeps. Like her heroine Norah, she also kind of believes that trees might have souls, but must clarify that she has never actually hugged a tree. The closest she has ever come to that kind of bizarre behavior was the time she hugged the pillars outside Harry Potter Land. Which, all things considered, is not bizarre at all if you take into account how exquisitely happy she was to finally be there. ;-)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.hannieclark.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> |</span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-58131211428351070782015-12-01T08:28:00.001-08:002015-12-01T08:28:27.404-08:00NaNoWriMo and Life Madness *Update*<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">November passed by and I didn't put up a single post! *sigh*</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well, that's only to be expected, I suppose. Hopefully in a few days--or weeks--I'll be able to share some fantastic news pertaining to the "life" bit of the equation on the post header...but for now, I can say things have been difficult in the sickness arena. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">NaNo went ok. Not as stellar as I'd hoped, but I knocked out about 20k of Yellow, Spheres Book 2, and managed to get a working scene list that bumped my novel up from a mere 30k (it was bigger in my mind, ok??! Haha) to about 90. During this past month I gained a tremendous amount of insight to Kara's story and am ready to dive in to knock out a large portion of the novel this month. I initially wanted to shoot for diving back into Whispers and Murmurs, but Kara's story has gripped me and well, it's the one demanding attention. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the meantime, I'll try to focus on some of the plot holes in the first book. *cries* </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My next post is a review (it's going up today, no worries :-) of The Lemorian Crest, Book 2 of the Uncovering Cobbogoth series by Hannah Clark. After that, I'm going to share a bit of my progress on Yellow during NaNo. Sure, it's RFDR stuff...but honestly, I find it encouraging when other writers are willing to share their work in its unrefined state, so I hope you're able to as well. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cheers! </span>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-73620304162679410792015-10-21T08:10:00.003-07:002015-10-21T08:10:40.230-07:00Confessions of a Writer Tag<br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This tag is <i>brilliant</i>. Thank you for coming up with this, Nicolette Elzie of <a href="http://nicoletteelzie.com/" target="_blank">A Little Bookish, A Little Writerly</a>!! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So what is it, you ask? A fantastic 20-question tag to help us get to know more about other writers in the blogdom! Woot. You can check out her post and the guidelines <a href="http://nicoletteelzie.com/2015/10/02/the-confessions-of-a-writertag/" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://breeannapierce.com/" target="_blank">Breeanna Pierce</a> kindly nominated/tagged me (thank you ^^!), and I'm excited to share with everyone! :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>1) When did you first start writing? Was being a writer something you always aspired to be?</b></span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I started writing when I was really young, but it wasn't prose—it was poetry! Looking back now, it doesn't really surprise me; I love poetry. Sadly, I don't think I'm going to go the publication route with it. Poetry is a difficult market to break into! :sulks in corner: </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In a way, I did always want to be a writer, but I wasn't sure what kind: singer/songwriter? Author? Poet? At the time I was only certain I wanted to change the world. When I received an award for creative writing in fifth grade and was acknowledged again by my L.A. teacher in sixth grade I realized hey, maybe creative writing is my thing. Of course I still dreamed of being a singer/songwriter (I mean, hey, who doesn't?! >.>). </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Another shift in my thinking occurred in ninth grade, when I suddenly decided that I wanted to write Fantasy. Awkward truth: I have NO IDEA where I got this idea from. Yeah, I liked reading—a lot. Maybe it was Harry Potter (*_*), or Eragon (pssh, I could've written this!) that spurred me on, but I don't have a specific, piercing—or, apparently, memorable—experience that awoke the desire to write a novel. I was kind of like Luffy from One Piece: I've decided! And that was that. </span><br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luffy: We're going to be nakama! Zoro: It doesn't work that way! Luffy: Nakama, nakama~</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So I started penning what is now SPHERES...except, as you likely suspected, it SUCKED. (SO. BAD.) I went through a phase where I questioned whether or not it was worth reviving after I trashed it, and a couple years later, I started re-envisioning the series. Pretty much the only thing that survived was the characters and the world, and even those have evolved drastically since that time. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>2) What genre do you write?</b></span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I still pen lyrics and poetry (check out my stuff from April's Poem a Day challenge <a href="http://lynannecarroll.blogspot.com/2015/05/2015-pad-poem-day-update-week-4.html" target="_blank">here</a>! Yes, this is a shameless plug ;-), but as a novelist I spend most of my time in YA Fantasy. I intend to branch into MG Fantasy after making some headway. I also hope to write some children's books....and I have an idea for a NA book...yeah, I'm pretty much all over the place haha.</span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>3) Can you tell us a little about your current work in progress? When did you start working on this project?</b></span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Oh boy. And you thought I was verbose with the first question....</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ehh, I'm really sorry lol ^_^' </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's called SPHERES, and it's an 8-book YA SF/F series that features a GoT-style POV shift in each book. If that hurts your brain or just fails to compute: there are 8 main characters in the series, and each of the main characters is featured as a protagonist in their own installment of the series. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm currently working on the first book, Whispers and Murmurs, which is Nikaiya's story. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Whispers and Murmurs is written in a stream-of-consciousness style similar to Mafi's Shatter Me series. (If you must know, it's really more of a combination of Shatter Me, Atlantia, and Chime....) </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Protagonist: newly-17-yr-old Nikaiya, a clever, selfish girl fated to become Kiran (queen) of a small island country known as Erevfaüna–a role she's loathe to play because she has no interest in politics and considers herself unworthy of the honor. Add the fact that she's taller than every man around, has reflective eyes (kind of like Riddick) that tend to leave people either starstruck or anxious, and possesses all the grace of a dead starfish, and she concludes everyone else must share her sentiments: she is unfit to be Kiran. Unfortunately, she doesn't have a choice; she's sole heir to the Light of Stars. She can't remain Karun forever.</span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To complicate matters, Nikaiya isn't "normal"; she can breathe underwater, hear things ordinary people can't, and has no trouble seeing in the dark–a secret she's kept hidden from everyone around her (or so she thinks) because, let's face it, she's already odd enough and would prefer to avoid drawing any more attention to herself…but because the pull toward the sea has become much stronger lately, she fears her secret will be exposed. As if that isn't worrisome enough, on the day the story opens, she experiences three separate, yet clearly connected, mfirenar (dreams that are like visions)–all of which feature a creature of myth: a monstrous irekarn (sea dragon). </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Later that same day, her parents reveal the truth: she's adopted (which she figured) and is a Seabreather like her birth parents (which she, well, didn't, because she had no idea such a thing existed). According to the Arken (king) and Kiran, Nikaiya was placed in their care to protect and hide her from those seeking to destroy her; apparently she's the supposed catalyst of the Prophecy of the Spheres, which makes her the prime target of a particular group of Seabreathers. </span><br>
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<a href="http://lynannecarroll.blogspot.com/2015/10/confessions-of-writer-tag_21.html#more">Read more »</a>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-22769208921458886012015-10-06T07:06:00.003-07:002015-10-06T07:06:33.869-07:00RIPPER The Morphid Chronicles #2 BY Ingrid Seymour *Cover Reveal*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am honored (and very, very excited!) to show you the cover of the sequel to KEEPER, my first taste of Ingrid Seymour's phenomenal writing and world-building. I've been waiting--eh, somewhat patiently lol--for the second installment, and it's almost here....!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ok, ok. Enough gushing. But before I reveal the **gorgeous** cover, here are some deets about the book:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><strong>BOOK TITLE:</strong> Ripper (The Morphid Chronicles #2)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><strong>AUTHOR:</strong> Ingrid Seymour</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><strong>GENRE:</strong> YA Urban Fantasy</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><b>SYNOPSIS</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Against all odds, Greg and Samantha seemed to have cheated Fate when they escaped Regent Danata. Miraculously, the two Morphids remain bound together, attempting to lead a normal, "human" life, even as fear of the evil woman's revenge clouds their days.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As Sam and Greg struggle to grow their relationship, she is haunted by memories of Ashby, her Morphid soul mate, and burning questions of the identity of her real parents. As if that wasn't enough, her untried Morphid instincts fill her with doubt and indecision, taking her once simple life in directions she never could have imagined.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When Greg's Keeper sense foretells danger, however, they abandon all dreams of normalcy and find no other choice but to flee. Armed with nothing but their Morphid skills, Sam sets their course toward New York City, a place that calls to her deeper instincts. As her Keeper, Greg must follow but knows danger awaits.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thus begins a quest that will test their bond and may spell the end of all they hold dear. It's only a matter of time before Regent Danata and chaos storm into their lives again.
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If this synopsis doesn't call out to you, that's ok; but I still highly recommend you read Ripper when it becomes available!! Once you read Keeper, you'll understand why I'm so adamant :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Are you ready for the Reveal???!!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So pretteh *_*</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>ABOUT THE AUTHOR</b> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://ingridseymour.com/">Ingrid Seymour</a> is the author of IGNITE THE SHADOWS (Harper Voyager, April 23rd, 2015). When she’s not writing books, she spends her time working as a software engineer, cooking exotic recipes, hanging out with her family and working out. She writes young adult and new adult fiction in a variety of genres, including Sci-Fi, urban fantasy, romance, paranormal and horror.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Her favorite outings involve a trip to the library or bookstore where she immediately gravitates toward the YA section. She’s an avid reader and fangirl of many amazing books. She is a dreamer and a fighter who believes perseverance and hard work can make dreams come true.</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Keeper:</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://bit.ly/1jbyLhK" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> | <a href="http://amzn.to/1quJUgY" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | </span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ignite The Shadows:</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24595250-ignite-the-shadows" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ignite-Shadows-Ingrid-Seymour-ebook/dp/B00OXHFR4K/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1421809353&sr=8-12&keywords=ingrid+seymour" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ignite-the-shadows-ingrid-seymour/1120641100?ean=9780008113667" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a> |</span></div>
Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-85395154208309409482015-10-01T08:53:00.000-07:002015-10-01T08:53:10.229-07:00YASH Fall 2015 *Young Adult Scavenger Hunt*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">It's the most wonderful time of the fall~~! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">YASH is back! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, I am that excited...and if you love YA books, you will be too (if you aren't already)! </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The main questions: What is this epic Hunt all about? How can I jump into the fray?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, dear reader, the Hunt is all about books, books, sweet giveaways, books, juicy never-before-seen exclusive content, books, more books, and fantastic authors. (And MOAR books :D!) There are 8 stellar teams participating this fall: blue, gold, green, orange, pink, purple, red, and teal. I've included the graphics below from the official scavenger blog so you can check out which authors are on each team and what books are up for grabs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And how is easy: just hop through the author blogs! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All the authors on a team share their favorite number on their posts; you simply add all those numbers together and enter it into that team's rafflecopter. If the number is correct, you'll be entered for a chance to win every, yes, EVERY, book pictured for that team. You can enter for as many or as few teams as your book-loving heart desires (:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course you can also hunt down specific authors and enter various giveaways (some authors will feature their own), check out the exclusive content, and express your gratitude by commenting on their blogs. </span><span style="font-size: large;">This is one of my favorite parts of the Hunt.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">**Please let them know how much you love them and how much you love YASH!** </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To get started--and for more information--visit the official <a href="http://www.yash.rocks/p/enter-here.html" target="_blank">YA Scavenger Hunt</a> page. You can allow follow the Hunt on Twitter (#YASH) @YAScavengerHunt. Spread the word!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>The Teams:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span id="goog_235237316">Massive fangirling happening now. I'm stoked that two of my absolute favorite authors, Jessica Khoury and A.G. Howard, are participating this fall!! *squeals*</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span id="goog_235237316">It's a tough choice, but if I had to pick just one team to enter, I think I'd enter Green. And if I had to choose one book, I'd pick The Forbidden Wish. </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span id="goog_235237316">What about you? What Team(s) will you enter? And if you had to choose just one book from this delicious collection, what would it be?? </span></span></b><span id="goog_235237317"></span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-6238166903046655522015-09-25T09:10:00.001-07:002015-09-25T09:10:04.020-07:00We Never Asked for Wings Vanessa Diffenbaugh *Review*<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">*I received an e-copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest and fair review. Thank you so much!!*</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Where to begin...? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This novel is so brilliant it's practically beaming. I knew Diffenbaugh had the gift within the first few pages of her debut, The Language of Flowers, and concluded that if she ever wrote anything else, I had to read it. I was not disappointed. We Never Asked for Wings is stunning. It is poignant, rich, and masterful, yet delightfully accessible. This is one story you do not want to miss. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Once again, Diffenbaugh's prose is simple, yet striking; melodic and lyrical, her craft draws out and illuminates the beauty and complexity of humanity, and inbues the story with an evocative ability to dance. The rawness and realism is so succinctly portrayed as to be mesmerizing. And oh, the symbolism. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The symbolism is wondrous, absolutely breathtaking. The title alone still brings tears to my eyes. The words “we never asked for wings” convey a sincere and transparent depth of meaning beyond what I could have anticipated despite my high expectations. Diffenbaugh captures wabisabi, painting a profound, heartwrenching picture of possibility through lives and journeys which reflect our own and demand introspective action. She asked me, “Are you flying, or at least trying to fly?” </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And ultimately, my answer was found to be, “What do we have but to try—even if we don't soar immediately, even if we fall at times, even if we are wounded? We must get back up. I must try.” </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We Never Asked for Wings also wows with its cast. The characters are just so tangible—like they truly exist. And in a way, they do. They are my neighbors; the voyagers I never considered as carefully and empathetically as I should have; the mother I judged for her failures because, in my finiteness and lack of wisdom, I failed to perceive her heart. Excuse me while I use up all of my tissues—<i>again</i>. These characters will break your heart (in a good way). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I empathized with Letty's struggle to overcome her fears and beliefs about her own inability. The more I saw her perceptions about herself, the more I loved her. We, as human beings, are very different and walk different paths, but we have all have crippling fears keeping us from pursuing dreams of grandeur. We all stumble and bend, crack and crumble...and we come to a point where we are confronted with truths we may not be ready to accept (it's ok to redefine success. It's ok to have not obtained, and to not be able to attain, perfection), and where we must choose: fear or life?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This is not to say I never became frustrated with Letty, or that I never suffered disappointment. Trust me. There was plenty of yelling, sighing, and eye-rolling! But isn't that what makes a character believable? We get angry with our loved ones. We become frustrated when they don't choose what we understand to be best (:D). Yet we embrace them when they are hurting, and genuinely ache for them all the same. We Never Asked for Wings is a treasure trove of life lessons. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In addition to a knockout cast and phenomenal prose, the plot is thought-provoking and gripping, and there are more than a few good twists. Of course it's captivating and sustains interest, but it covers bold territory. I meandered through it, allowed it to soak in. Unlike The Language of Flowers, which I devoured first and pondered later, I felt compelled to chew bits at a time to ponder and process before moving forward. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Overall</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We Never Asked For Wings is well worth the read; you're looking at another best seller for sure. Get your tissue box ready. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24041443-we-never-asked-for-wings">Goodreads</a> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/055339231X?tag=randohouseinc9198-20">Amazon</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/we-never-asked-for-wings-vanessa-diffenbaugh/1121067203?ean=9780553392319&cm_mmc=AFFILIATES-_-Linkshare-_-VD9*lkiWNd8-_-10:1">Barnes & Noble</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780553392319?aff=penguinrandom">IndieBound</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>About the Author</b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.randytunnell.com/">www.RandyTunnell.com</a></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Vanessa Diffenbaugh was born in San Francisco and raised in Chico, California. After graduating from Stanford University, she worked in the non-profit sector, teaching art and technology to youth in low-income communities. Following the success of her debut novel, The Language of Flowers, she co-founded <a href="https://www.camellianetwork.org/" target="_blank">Camellia Network</a>, a non-profit whose mission is to connect every youth aging out of foster care to the critical resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive in adulthood. She currently lives in Monterey, CA, with her husband and four children.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://facebook.com/vanessadiffenbaugh" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://twitter.com/vdiffenbaugh"><span id="goog_724571016"></span>Twitter @VDiffenbaugh<span id="goog_724571017"></span></a> | </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| Instagram @vanessadiffenbaugh |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.vanessadiffenbaugh.com/">Website</a> |</span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-18236473984395892842015-09-23T08:34:00.000-07:002015-09-23T08:34:50.782-07:00Finally back from my unexpected summer break! Woohoo<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Hey all--Summer has come and past and now it is officially Autumn and Whispers and Murmurs has yet to be completed. *Sigh* </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm slow. So very, painfully slow. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But hey, self-encouragement: Franny Billingsley, brilliant author of Chime, my favorite YA book of all time, expressed in her bio that it takes her a very long time to pen a novel (upwards of 7 years, I think, for Chime, which is a masterpiece). I've been working seriously on SPHERES for nearly 3 years. Granted, I had little to no clue what I was actually doing the first, so it was more of a learning curve, and I was also waylaid much of the time by PTSD. I remember taking the first 6 or so months out of college doing absolutely nothing aside from working at the Daycare and daydreaming and, well, being a recluse. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You think I'm kidding. Nope. I didn't speak with anyone online or otherwise except one or two very close friends during that time. I might've even neglected those. Thankfully they understood that I still cared about them; I just needed a break from the stress of social interaction :). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When stress piled high this summer, I realized maintaining the blog was simply not conducive to my health...which sounds ridiculous, but is actually true. I was overwhelmed by many things--mostly medical--and was attempting to finish the WIP. I'm still pretty devastated about not finishing Whispers and Murmurs. I'm also still sick. And as usual, I pile too much on my expectations list and am unable to complete the overly ambitious list because 1) um, it's OVERAMBITIOUS, and 2) I just feel crappy a lot :/. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But I digress. The point is, I've been out of commission for the summer because of various reasons, and it's been disappointing, to say the least...but I'm back on track and ready to post some reviews, talk about YASH, writing, books, devotional time/journeying, etc. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So if you've been following my blog, and/or if you take the time to read this, thank you! It means a lot. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cheers!</span>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-32845803689184023412015-06-25T09:58:00.000-07:002015-06-25T10:03:22.532-07:00Date With a Rockstar Sarah Gagnon *Blog Tour Review & Giveaway*<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Title: Date With a Rockstar</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Author: Sarah Gagnon</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Release Date: June 23, 2015</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Publisher: Spencer Hill Contemporary</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Synopsis</span></b></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Only one girl will win the cash prize...and a chance at love with Jeremy Bane.</span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Monet isn’t just another lust-struck teenager trying to win the heart of Rock God Jeremy Bane--she needs the prize money from his new reality show to cure her illness. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Monet has Fluxem, a contagious disease that's spread through saliva. It's completely curable if you have enough money, which she and her single mother don't. Now that she's on the show, Monet has to work harder to keep her Fluxem hidden. She only has to keep the secret long enough to woo Jeremy Bane so he picks her as the winner. She doesn't even care about the love part; the prize alone will change her life.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But the real Jeremy Bane is nothing like she imagined. Monet finds herself fighting against feelings that make her want to give in to her attraction and Jeremy's attempts for a kiss. The further she goes in the competition, the more impossible it becomes to resist him--and when the producers turn the tables and start digging up dirt on the contestants, Monet fears her secret will be revealed before she's ready and ruin everything.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The only way to win Jeremy's heart is to tell him the truth, but confessing her disease could cost her the competition, the prize money, and him.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>| <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22582862-date-with-a-rockstar?from_search=true" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Date-Rockstar-Sarah-Gagnon/dp/1939392586/ref=sr_1_1_twi_1_pap?ie=UTF8&qid=1434211924&sr=8-1&keywords=Sarah+Gagnon" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/date-with-a-rockstar-sarah-gagnon/1120381388?ean=9781939392589" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a> | </b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>| <a href="http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Date-With-A-Rockstar/book-tJ7Don30PU68cN4eP9z93g/page1.html?s=Sy7HGIK2NEGhPp08ZGxJ4g&r=2" target="_blank">Kobo</a> | <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781939392589" target="_blank">IndieBound</a> | <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Date-with-Rockstar-Sarah-Gagnon/9781939392589" target="_blank">Book Depository</a> |</b></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">**Review**</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>I'm thrilled to be reviewing Date With a Rockstar today :). Big thanks to Sarah Gagnon and Spencer Hill Press! </b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>*I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest and fair review*</b> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Date with a Rockstar is the fun, somewhat silly read that I tend to miss out on because such novels tend to have a little too much romance and not enough plot for my taste, but this novel, though both fun and somewhat silly, set itself apart from the very beginning with a lovable protagonist and a fantastic didn't-see-that-coming premise. I really enjoyed it! Yes, there was a good bit of romance, but the subplots and Monet's goal—not to mention some stellar secrets and backstory tidbits—made for a complex and riveting story. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Great Protagonist</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One of the reasons I found Monet so relatable was her lack of money. Maybe that's judgmental, but it did lessen her chances—at least in her mind—to succeed, and added a dimension of rawness and realism to her story. Then, of course, there was the illness...which was tragic and worrisome, yet fascinating. Monet's hobbies also drew me in (art? I love art). I thoroughly enjoyed having a down-to-earth, determined, and intelligent protagonist.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Killer World</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I could rave for a page about how cool the world-building was, but I'll spare you that lengthy monologue. It was unexpectedly good. That sounds insulting, so I'll qualify: I was under the impression that this was not a novel that would be exploring the world outside of the typical setting...and that the setting would be typical...because the main storyline revolves around winning this competition—winning the rock star. I'm so glad I was wrong. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Gagnon added a nice big slice of futuristic fantasy-esque material to her settings. It was like finding a bunch of easter eggs in a Nancy Drew game (win. So much win) because fantasy is my GENRE. You know how people say someone is their homeboy? Fantasy my homeslice. (Don't judge me.) In other words, I felt like I'd won the jackpot without even playing. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And there's more: Gagnon's finesse in the area of world-building is impressive, but what really blew me away was her ability to weave backstory and setting details into the story so subtly and creatively. Skyrim sneak level? 100—and Legendary. Brilliant. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sadly, as with most novels, there were some things I didn't love about Date With a Rockstar:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Jeremy Bane, Rock god? ...Really?</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">...If you know me, you already know why I have a problem with this. If you don't, here's my attempt at an uber short explanation: he's just a guy. Nothing particularly special about him other than the fact that, like hundreds of other guys, he can play some instruments and jam out on a stage. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I don't appreciate or condone encouraging girls to look up to rockers--male or female--as anything more than human...because they aren't. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And I know, I know--it's a terminology thing. "That's just what people say." My unforgiving opinion: Gagnon's a writer. Finding something better to say is part of her job description as an artist, and judging from her novel, she's more than capable of rising to the challenge.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Happily ever after?</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The ending and all loose ends were wrapped up nicely. A little </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>too</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> conveniently, really. Still, despite the fact that the ending wasn't as believable as I would've liked, it was still a solid, fulfilling, and desirable ending that left me feeling a tad warmer and fuzzier than before I began the journey alongside Monet. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Mother dearest</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I actually empathized with Monet's mother and resonated with her until around the 85-90% mark, at which point I was stunned by how unrealistic her response was to everything that had happened. It was the one thing that I just could not buy into. My disappointment was compounded by the above-described coziness of the ending as a whole. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>The romance</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ehhh, it was ok. Yeah, it was a cutesy love story and there were all the thrills you'd expect in any good romance—past love interest appearance, confessions/dirty secrets, angst—but sometimes the whole bachelor-thing really turned me off toward Jeremy. It made it harder to accept the romance as legitimate. (Probably didn't help that I have PTSD and trust issues with men lol.) The cattiness was also fairly obnoxious, though in fairness to Gagnon, I can't say that was unexpected.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Most bothersome? There was a scene or two near the end of the novel that was, in my opinion, not delivered in the best taste. Nothing raunchy, of course—this novel's clean with the exception of a few choice words sprinkled throughout—but it's the principle of the matter that bothered me. From Monet's pov, I get it; it wasn't unrealistic. But as an adult and a writer? I disagreed with the presentation and felt that Gagnon should've stepped up and discouraged the not-so-fantastic choices. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Overall, I found Date With a Rockstar heartwarming, entertaining, and intriguing, and recommend it—especially to fans of romance. I was very impressed and will be on the lookout for Sarah Gagnon's work in the future :)!</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Final Verdict:</b> </span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">About the Author</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sarah Gagnon grew up in the frigid woods of Maine amidst snow and animal skins and has now moved back home. As a small child she wrote ship-wrecked romances all while being stared down by a taxidermied duck.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She has a BFA in photography and a minor in writing from the University of Southern Maine. She's the mother of two tiny, feral children and two ill-behaved dogs. For fun she’s taken up construction and interior design. Her first project: moving into a dilapidated farmhouse with her computer-genius husband. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://twitter.com/fancypantssarah" target="_blank">Twitter @fancypantssarah</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/datewitharockstar" target="_blank">Facebook</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.sarahgagnon.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Giveaway time!</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>One winner will receive a Date With a Rockstar Tee and a finished copy of the book!</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Must be 13+ to enter.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">US only.</span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-82933769445677209642015-06-24T11:09:00.001-07:002015-08-07T09:27:12.958-07:00Gathering Research That Counts—a Cautionary Tale<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPwYx7-xlnnW4B1mxODAOOSPwJbbuPli1qkrUZsUF7v-G-x5G0W-Q0_DI_GaUDNNgMFCT5_eSQKNADM0SSQITgCw0fLdv61fAnatNRisY2g87gHg8z_xIS9x1EUTt_WWFIVzRkG46FoE/s1600/Counting+research.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPwYx7-xlnnW4B1mxODAOOSPwJbbuPli1qkrUZsUF7v-G-x5G0W-Q0_DI_GaUDNNgMFCT5_eSQKNADM0SSQITgCw0fLdv61fAnatNRisY2g87gHg8z_xIS9x1EUTt_WWFIVzRkG46FoE/s320/Counting+research.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Research. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Some revel in it and dive in with perhaps a little too much zeal; some flail and whine and procrastinate until they can't anymore, and continue to gripe during the process; and some whine and moan and complain and then find they actually like research...and go about the rest of their exploits with a jovial, can-do attitude and get stuff done. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Everybody approaches the task differently, with varying rates of success.</span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Me, I actually like research (I'm one of those fanatical revelers :D). In fact, I like research so much that I overdo it and spend time looking up fairly irrelevant facts about things like ecosystems and water currents when I should be writing. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm in recovery.</span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Back when I was a junior in college, I took a course that essentially revolved around gathering anthropological research—information about people groups and their cultures—and how to use that research in the context of ministry (I majored in Cross-Cultural Studies).</span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Initially I was excited about the project because it seemed easy enough and it was an opportunity to learn more about Japan because we got to choose our own people group—though it had to be a people group that hadn't been researched by other students in the last five years. I love Japan, so obviously I was going to choose a people group...in Japan. (Didn't see <i>that</i> coming, did you? ;-) My mindset: Research+Japan=Double Win. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I ended up choosing the Ryukyuan of Okinawa and used the term Okinawan...which turned into a funny story later because someone chose the same people group and it slipped the professor's notice because my fellow student referred to the people group as Ryukyuans! (: </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyway, our assignment was to fill a box with research on our chosen group and organize the info via categorical hanging folders as per the OCM, or Outline of Cultural Materials. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The box itself was graded <i>numerically</i>, and I was an extremely busy student; time became the most important element of my efforts. Usefulness took a backseat to time spent because I had to have 15, 25, 30 (etc.) pieces of info in that box by the deadline(s) or risk failure...though that isn't to say I didn't think I <i>was</i> gathering at least <i>somewhat</i> useful information. I wouldn't realize how aimless my efforts truly were until I began to USE THE BOX. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I don't know how I missed it...but the point of gathering research for the box was to write a paper—several papers, actually, each 10 pages with the exception of the capstone paper, which was 30+. Which requires research. Preferably relevant research. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You see where I'm going with this? </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When I finally <i>did</i> get to writing said papers, I had a ton of unanswered—and unhappily required—questions that my box couldn't help me with. I had to do even MORE research. </span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Commence table flipping and wailing about the cruelty of ignorance:</span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'd say at least half of what I'd gathered was wasted effort. OUCH. Triple ouch, really. Still hurts sometimes...*sniffs*</span><br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If I'd known precisely what things I'd need to research to complete the papers, if I'd had some sort of rubric or guide, my research would have been targeted and, well, <i>relevant</i>. A good use of my time.</span><br>
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<a href="http://lynannecarroll.blogspot.com/2015/06/gathering-research-that-countsa.html#more">Read more »</a>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-47488426504275182422015-06-16T09:29:00.002-07:002015-06-16T09:29:34.655-07:00Ensnared A.G. Howard *Review*<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My one word for Ensnared: Masterful!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you've been following the Splintered series, you're aware of the genius that is A. G. Howard. I enjoy her work so immensely I actually asked myself if it was possible to rave over a series too much. I thought about it for around 3 seconds and decided: Nope :)!</span></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>There's a New Red Queen in Town (aka Alyssa)</b></span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've liked Alyssa from the very beginning—granted, she </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>did </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">frustrate me a bit in Unhinged because of the love triangle bit, though that was resolved marvelously in the next installment—but in Ensnared? I LOVED HER.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I don't even know who this is...but I love this gif. He looks so excited LOL</span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After Morpheus and Jeb disappear into AnyElsewhere, Alyssa decides it's time to embrace her Netherling side. In the past, she tried to ignore, neglect, and/or suppress it (though she grew more accustomed to it toward the end of Unhinged), but now that the two men she loves—not to mention her mother—have been taken, she knows she's going to need every bit of Netherling power she can muster.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ensnared reveals the delicious complexity brimming just under the surface in Splintered and Unhinged. I always knew Alyssa had it in her...but before, she held herself back. Not anymore.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Alyssa finally yields to the no-nonsense attitude I always knew she had, sets aside her fears, and takes fierceness to another dimension in her determination to save the ones she loves. She's powerful, ferocious, inventive, and relentless, and she bares her whole heart in all the glory of its duality. It was truly a privilege to witness her journey of self-discovery as both human and Netherling. *goes off to re-read the series because it's THAT stellar*</span></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>That Love Triangle</b></span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've mentioned it before, and I'm sure I'll be mentioning it again, but I really don't like love triangles. (Or square wanna-be triangle blob things.) But the 'triangle' in Ensnared really is different—it's actually believable and, whoa, justifiable.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am 99.9% confident that I will never, in all my life, describe a love triangle as justifiable again, so you can take that as a sign that A.G. Howard has truly gone above and beyond.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I don't do spoilers, so I can't go much further...but WOW. Who Alyssa is, the totality of herself as both human and Netherling, is a huge part of what makes the romance so compelling and believable. If that component wasn't there, the romance would've fallen into quicksand in my eyes. It really is ingenious.</span></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Those Boys</b></span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">*fans self*</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sure, looks are important, but they aren't worth fanning myself over. Integrity and chivalry? Someone go call the fire department. *continues to fan self*</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Morpheus and Jeb really outdo themselves in Ensnared. The entire time Alyssa is trapped outside Wonderland, unable to secure a way in, these two are...*gasp*...together. In the same place. <i>Helping one another</i>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Yes, I know—it's a beautiful (and unexpected) thing. The lengths they went to in order to help Alyssa and Wonderland itself were commendable. Ack. Those pesky spoilers prevent me from saying much more...but I will say I thoroughly enjoyed the direction Howard took with these two as individuals and as rivals.</span></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>The Ending—Alyssa's Choice</b></span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The big question: Who will Alyssa choose??!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">*cheshire cat grin*</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You'll have to dive in for yourself to find out, but I will say this: loads of people had mixed feelings about the end/her choice. Of course I was rooting for Morpheus, but...and I almost cannot believe I am saying this...Jeb is super sweet in this novel! In Unhinged he was meh. So he's a great artist and he's risen above his abusive father. That's stellar, BUT. Tug on my heartstrings it did not. Enter Ensnared, where he bypassed the heartstring tug entirely and ripped out my heart.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I gained such an affinity for and respect toward Jeb that I surprised myself. I mean, of course I wanted Alyssa to be with Morpheus...but at the same time, I felt that if she chose Jeb I'd be able to accept it—though mournfully—with grace. Are you seeing the level of skill as a writer you must have to be able to do something like this??!</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Again, M-a-s-t-e-r-f-u-l.</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A.G. Howard's ending was immensely satisfying (the gorgeous prose helped). I am SO EXCITED for Untamed. *ahem*</span></div>
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<b>Final Verdict: </b></div>
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Bq7NYkcHUB90lXNVB2vy8dTnD_MLdp22aTvQpPmA4pIdd4CNxOlmD5D8KJXwnGesVGXyiG6d_4RQFdpudq-8M_aNzGp3akL5vJ-YVOTDpayW1-mL7hQfJay3v74kB8uRbJR839IH20A/s1600/paopu+fruit+pic-horz+5+stars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="85" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Bq7NYkcHUB90lXNVB2vy8dTnD_MLdp22aTvQpPmA4pIdd4CNxOlmD5D8KJXwnGesVGXyiG6d_4RQFdpudq-8M_aNzGp3akL5vJ-YVOTDpayW1-mL7hQfJay3v74kB8uRbJR839IH20A/s400/paopu+fruit+pic-horz+5+stars.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ensnared-Splintered-A-G-Howard/dp/1419712292" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ensnared-a-g-howard/1118470671" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22447220-ensnared?from_search=true&search_version=service" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> |</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">About the Author</span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppxIhQmcN3h3xXbay6CBVtY0NImM7d-FKxjn6jlR2qz1YGBqYR1v_VAvMWDDwrl7DUX3lVT0D-Sur12s9rYRMAJQADbHi4VaGvK7q4TvLZfC9Gc0a4Ian80K7KvGUEJela8tufccClnw/s1600/Howard+author+pic.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppxIhQmcN3h3xXbay6CBVtY0NImM7d-FKxjn6jlR2qz1YGBqYR1v_VAvMWDDwrl7DUX3lVT0D-Sur12s9rYRMAJQADbHi4VaGvK7q4TvLZfC9Gc0a4Ian80K7KvGUEJela8tufccClnw/s1600/Howard+author+pic.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.yellowpages.com/amarillo-tx/mip/pam-lary-photography-463395967" target="_blank">Pam Lary</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A.G. Howard was inspired to write Splintered, the first book in her bestselling Splintered Series, while working at a school library in her Texas hometown. She always wondered what would've happened had the subtle creepiness of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland taken center stage, and she hopes her darker and funkier tribute to Carroll will inspire readers to seek out the stories that won her heart as a child.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When she's not writing, A.G.'s pastimes are reading, rollerblading, gardening, and family vacations which often include impromptu side trips to 18th century graveyards or condemned schoolhouses to appease her overactive muse.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: x-large; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/aghowardwrites" target="_blank">Twitter @aghowardwrites</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/authoraghoward" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://pinterest.com/authoraghoward/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> |</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.aghoward.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> |</span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-11108056606107357482015-05-27T10:22:00.003-07:002015-05-27T10:22:42.380-07:00Summer: Road Trip!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Because I might've went a tad overboard last month with the number of posts and general craziness, I thought May should be a cool down month.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Yeah...I kind of swung too far and only ended up with one (rather uninteresting) post...!</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="338" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//giphy.com/embed/vuYK6Pn7h8mek?html5=true" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="480"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I <3 Loki :D</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Alas, it's too late to change it. It was probably for the best anyway. I mean, I was only going to review Ensnared and The Winner's Curse. *cries*</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On a positive note, road trip!!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm off to North Carolina tomorrow...then Georgia...then NC...and I'll be back in AL (Lord willing) Monday evening. I won't be going it alone the whole way; NC is more like a pit stop to grab my bestie, who will be traveling with me to a wedding.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On one hand, I'm stoked--am I there yet??! (Well?!) On the other hand, I'm fighting off the nervousness that stems from my inherent lack of directional sense. (Translation: Yep. Totally panicking.)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We tried out our new GPS, and it went, well, about as well as it could possibly go with a severely directionally challenged person. I feel slightly better knowing Garfield (so named b/c Garmin. Ha. Get it?) is there. If I had to go it with written directions and my iPhone...I honestly couldn't say I'd make it out of my house. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media.tumblr.com/19ea379e5f12d0cbe781c1fbe8a725b9/tumblr_inline_mfwlyfuOJz1r3qiu4.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media.tumblr.com/19ea379e5f12d0cbe781c1fbe8a725b9/tumblr_inline_mfwlyfuOJz1r3qiu4.gif" height="178" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When I get back I'll be getting a root canal done -_-, and then I'll be teaching the Missions segment for Vacation Bible School *^_^*, and THEN I'm going to get a Hida (? pssh, who really knows the names of these things unless you go to med school) scan T_T. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Woot for emoticons! :o</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So. My point in saying the above was...well actually...I dunno. I just felt like blabbering, I guess....but I'm looking forward to next month a a more balanced month of posts! And Ensnared *_*, of course. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cheers!</span>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-19934845020001135332015-04-22T05:00:00.000-07:002015-04-22T05:00:01.396-07:00Ignite the Shadows Ingrid Seymour *Review & Giveaway with Xpresso Book Tours*<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://xpressobooktours.com/2015/02/23/tour-sign-up-ignite-the-shadows-by-ingrid-seymour/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEuI3mOn7cuhKtK-aS7vxONvistRVajaSbDdJIcUUS_QFq1DVHsTT7cMpmjoFM2z7MO7m5QEAa01HfVUAB5JWRQ6CIXlbh08J0OQxQW4be05YdxJ1KRdZxZX36SWTk-A-bohE2OSmO7w/s1600/IgniteTheShadowsTourBanner1.png" height="147" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click on the banner to check out the other stops!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ignite The Shadows by Ingrid Seymour
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">(Ignite The Shadows #1)
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Published by: HarperVoyager</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Publication date: April 23rd 2015</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Genres: Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy,
Young Adult</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">*I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest and fair review*</span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Review</span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After devouring the first installment
of the Morphid Chronicles, I had high expectations for Ignite the
Shadows—because Wow. The MORPHID CHRONICLES (jaw-dropping,
seriously. I loved it. You can check out my review of Keeper <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CB4QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Flynannecarroll.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F06%2Fkeeper-ingrid-seymour-omnibus-review.html&ei=NV42VdDjG4_LsASQ5IGYAg&usg=AFQjCNGLSYSsCGelWVxUq3HXvz9XhX3UPw&sig2=ijXlllEZ8eAOfkC9TusTeA&bvm=bv.91071109,d.cWc" target="_blank">here</a>)....which is
probably why I was in such a state of upheaval for the first eighth
of the story.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'll be frank: I was so excited to get
started I forgot to re-read the synopsis before I dove in ^_^', and
because of this, I had little to no idea what was going on with Marci
for the first five or so chapters. It was frustrating. So...read that
synopsis, and keep in mind that Marci is infected, and the shadows
are real! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You're going to love this book.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">World</span></i></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ingrid Seymour has
a knack for creating believable, uber-cool and uber-creative
'species'. I was really impressed by the level of scientific
explanation given for the Shadows' existence, especially because she
integrated it with somewhat fantastical elements. Get excited. It's
stellar :).</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Characters </i>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the beginning of the story, Marci
wasn't very likeable. Sure, she could hack—cool. Karate skills? Way
cool. But her attitude problem, combined with her occasional bouts of
irrationality (emotionally contradictory), got under my skin. As I
got to know her, though, she really grew on me, and by the end, I
loved her. She was unreasonable at times, but she had a lot of
spirit.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As for the other characters,
well...sometimes they left me scratching my head. I had trouble
understanding most of their personalities and motives, never really
sure if they were acting. This was especially true of Luke (sure that
was intentional, so ok), James (ridiculously tight-lipped level:
secret agent), and Aydan (bi-polar?). While a brilliant way to
showcase Marci's lack of trust in others—and create
suspense/sustain tension—it was grating at times.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Plot</span></i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There were moments I flipped pages
madly and moments where I meandered, but overall, I really enjoyed
the story and I think you will, too. Two things I want to highlight:
choices and secret-keeping.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You always have a choice. Yet Marci
frequently employs “what choice do I have” thinking to justify
her next step(s).
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Used once or twice, I guess I could see
it, but Marci used it so many times it became an excuse rather than a
legitimate plot device. I'm not saying the circumstances weren't
tense or serious or undemanding of attention and/or action; it was
that her justification of her own involvement, when prefaced with
this statement, became questionable. Almost as if it undermined the
events themselves, if that makes sense.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For curious people who NEED to know why *<span style="font-weight: normal;">raises hand*, Ignite the Shadows is
somewhat unkind. As the story progresses and more information is laid
out it gets better, but I had some serious struggles with the answer
withholding. If I was in Marci's shoes, I don't know that I could've
trusted James. Kudos to her for braving the open sea during a
storm...and kudos to you if you can make it through without berating
Marci in your mind (or aloud). </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Overall</span></i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ingrid Seymour is <i>incredibly </i>talented. I'll be snatching up her work in the future; she's secured
a spot on my list of favorite YA Urban Fantasy authors :)!
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Final Verdict: </span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYqfgZafbMf9UnHVfRsex-jwDECgEg0STdkw3Qh-a4oeWstCYd7haWBJH8Zig_EdzioBNMZtOkEY9wLn9z5DN4ZPTWiHSClXK4pCbg2e0fc3iC-6x0hrO5uqMrOUHORTrchY901Ft23Y/s1600/paopu+fruit+pic-horz+4+stars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYqfgZafbMf9UnHVfRsex-jwDECgEg0STdkw3Qh-a4oeWstCYd7haWBJH8Zig_EdzioBNMZtOkEY9wLn9z5DN4ZPTWiHSClXK4pCbg2e0fc3iC-6x0hrO5uqMrOUHORTrchY901Ft23Y/s1600/paopu+fruit+pic-horz+4+stars.jpg" height="85" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Synopsis</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgueQ3K0vvgNMYWJQM7OZnaJZjq0bLuMOtuz2noZ9JMow524qGhWgAsnomZG5Fuiw6ndbrofDvQMEeRwiCUX1XAfxx3h8sgVHsmUIERSihg-49ZnInNoLg_rRsfv-aQKwMVILB8CM0dGoI/s1600/ItS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgueQ3K0vvgNMYWJQM7OZnaJZjq0bLuMOtuz2noZ9JMow524qGhWgAsnomZG5Fuiw6ndbrofDvQMEeRwiCUX1XAfxx3h8sgVHsmUIERSihg-49ZnInNoLg_rRsfv-aQKwMVILB8CM0dGoI/s1600/ItS.jpg" height="320" width="208" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sixteen-year-old Marci Guerrero is one
of the best teen hackers in Seattle. However, she’d give up all her
talents to know she isn’t crazy.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Marci feels possessed by what she
perceives as shadowy spectres that take control of her body and make
her do crazy things. While spying on the clandestine group known as
IgNiTe, she’s confronted by the leader, James McCray. His presence
stirs the spectres inside her brain into a maddening frenzy. Her
symptoms and ability to control them don’t go unnoticed by James,
who soon recruits her and shows her the awful truth.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Half of the world’s population is
infected by sentient parasites. They bind themselves to the human
brain and replace the pathways for all thoughts and actions. The
creatures then morph their hosts into grotesque monsters with
extraordinary strengths. Winged, clawed, fanged half-humans become
living nightmares. Now Marci wishes she was crazy, because the truth
is worse.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She’s infected.</span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24595250-ignite-the-shadows?ac=1" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ignite-the-shadows-ingrid-seymour/1120641100?ean=9780008113667" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a> | <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OXHFR4K/ref=x_gr_w_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=httpwwwgoodco-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00OXHFR4K&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2" target="_blank">Amazon</a> |</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">About the Author</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghC6cMnuabK-cXr8tcuL-GQDrpi-GMgA-UAET26wAgF9XLjsJNWRCgimyxBACfKblhhJQ9SYKXCBufA1EW9sSsDK4n0IcJq0tjtRJWh2k2jJbsPehBXfn4b7ZJeRIuMShl76asK6cve_A/s1600/Ingrid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghC6cMnuabK-cXr8tcuL-GQDrpi-GMgA-UAET26wAgF9XLjsJNWRCgimyxBACfKblhhJQ9SYKXCBufA1EW9sSsDK4n0IcJq0tjtRJWh2k2jJbsPehBXfn4b7ZJeRIuMShl76asK6cve_A/s1600/Ingrid.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ingrid Seymour is
the author of IGNITE THE SHADOWS (Harper Voyager, April 23rd, 2015).
When she’s not writing books, she spends her time working as a
software engineer, cooking exotic recipes, hanging out with her
family and working out. She writes young adult and new adult fiction
in a variety of genres, including Sci-Fi, urban fantasy, romance,
paranormal and horror.</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Her favorite
outings involve a trip to the library or bookstore where she
immediately gravitates toward the YA section. She’s an avid reader
and fangirl of many amazing books. She is a dreamer and a fighter who
believes perseverance and hard work can make dreams come true.</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She lives in
Birmingham, AL with her husband, two kids and a cat named Mimi.</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">**Interested in learning more about Ingrid? Check out today's tour stops: a guest post on <a href="http://www.aealbert.com/" target="_blank">A Book Addict's Book Shelves</a> and an interview on <a href="http://www.starryeyednikki.com/" target="_blank">Got Nikki?</a></span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-19050358453485370442015-04-18T09:59:00.000-07:002015-04-18T09:59:12.296-07:00Atlantia Ally Condie *Review*<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZe_PFIgeJxnFL0aRumd3SVFI_GNwZznWwoaP4i0o4RJ5W8E2EfrvIgYpRruukoL07xIGCvemVRgnvUrydiaLfoNmb36id6b9_Up5B_87SOmI-FqvnUqCcy6H0nLBNHfYOz9c65y1n80/s1600/atlantia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZe_PFIgeJxnFL0aRumd3SVFI_GNwZznWwoaP4i0o4RJ5W8E2EfrvIgYpRruukoL07xIGCvemVRgnvUrydiaLfoNmb36id6b9_Up5B_87SOmI-FqvnUqCcy6H0nLBNHfYOz9c65y1n80/s1600/atlantia.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As
soon as I heard about this book, I wanted it. Desperately.</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">If
a book is about the sea—mermaids, selkies, etc.--I'm already sold.
But if there are <span style="font-weight: normal;">:twins: in the
same setting?</span></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-style: normal; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m7j5nf5wJh1r5fie0.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m7j5nf5wJh1r5fie0.gif" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That's
why, when I started reading this book, I was ridiculously
excited—and, for the most part, I stayed that way throughout the
story.</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Let's
talk details...</span></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">The
Setting</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Oh,
the setting :)</span></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">When
I heard about Atlantia, I thought it was going to be an oceanic
novel—mermaids, undersea adventure, the works—and then I started
reading. Didn't take long to realize my vision of Atlantia couldn't
have been farther from Condie's, but Condie had a wonderful vision,
something unique and riveting in its own right. I found that element
of surprise to be part of what made Atlantia itself so enchanting. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">So
yes, the setting was a huge shock, but it grew on me immediately.
It's dazzlingly brilliant and unlike anything I've ever seen in this
genre (dystopian)/sub-genre (sea tales). An additional plus: the
world is vivid and believable. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">The
Story</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">In
short, I loved it. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The
finely-crafted mystery behind the origin, purpose, and history of
Atlantia kept me turning pages, and I loved the characters; learning
about the world alongside Rio was a lot of fun, and the other
characters kept me on my toes.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Some
reviewers remarked that the plot is obvious...but really, when you
think about it, </span><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">every</span></i><span style="font-weight: normal;"> plot is obvious—it's simply a matter of to what degree. </span><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">I</span></i><span style="font-weight: normal;"> enjoyed the plot and found it entertaining until the end, despite
the predictability of some parts. The thrill isn't as much about
guessing who's behind what or the secret(s) behind Atlantia (though
engaging); it's about experiencing the truth through Rio's eyes,
getting to see how she responds, and rooting for her. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Also,
the ending wasn't as predictable as people let on. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">The
Voice of Rio</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">...I
may have virtual tomatoes thrown at me for this one....</span></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Many
reviewers found the voice of Rio to be very similar to, if not
exactly the same as, Cassia's. Even though I've only read the first
book in the Matched trilogy, I got this vibe of similarity, too. But
I don't think the characters and their voices are <i>exactly </i><span style="font-style: normal;">alike,
and I don't think Atlantia is a waste of time just because both
characters happen to be pale beauties in dystopian settings. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Let
me address that word (dystopian) in regard to voice: Rather than
being entirely the author's—or the characters'—fault that Cassia
and Rio sound similar, it's also the fault of conventions behind the
genre.
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Personally,
I think it's a no-go to 'create' a voice based off the genre rather
than the character because readers will encounter the same genre over
and over again...but they will </span><i>never </i><span style="font-style: normal;">encounter
quite the same character. Loads of reviewers are booing
Condie/Atlantia because of the phenomenon...but she's not the only
author who writes (in the genre) like this. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nearly
every dystopian I've ever read sounds almost exactly like
Matched—somewhat dry, straight to the point/less flowery,
quiet/thoughtful. They share a somewhat monotonous and sobering tone
(my guess is because it carries a sense of weight). Sadly, it doesn't
suit every character or story, and I'd love to see a few more
dystopians stretch past this convention.</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyway,
my point is, Atlantia is still a good read, and Rio is still a
fascinating character in a fascinating world!
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Overall</i></span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">My
favorite part about Atlantia as a whole is its simplicity and
freshness. Condie took fairly basic, classical ideas—Atlantica
(little mermaid), sirens, land vs. sea—melted them down, and
re-molded them. What an achievement to have created something so
extraordinary from things so overdone! </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">I
heartily commend her for this masterpiece, and highly recommend it to
lovers of sea-themed and/or fantasy novels and dystopian works. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Final
Verdict: </span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszu_rgLnWxH_e8_9FgP9eOf2qfJR-nxHEXUl9d2BJvgqFv7GgRG6-biDqfy1bbtnlgTRZoXhTmVycHhTg4W7FKx7YYZykUORI8BIlIsN-xe4ucMEe-4bcoAxGLEQIKxAeVGJ39IzW6rg/s1600/paopu+fruit+pic-horz+4.5+stars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszu_rgLnWxH_e8_9FgP9eOf2qfJR-nxHEXUl9d2BJvgqFv7GgRG6-biDqfy1bbtnlgTRZoXhTmVycHhTg4W7FKx7YYZykUORI8BIlIsN-xe4ucMEe-4bcoAxGLEQIKxAeVGJ39IzW6rg/s1600/paopu+fruit+pic-horz+4.5+stars.jpg" height="75" width="320" /></a></span></b></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">About the Author</span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ally Condie is the author of the MATCHED Trilogy, a #1 New York Times and international bestseller. MATCHED was chosen as one of YALSA’s 2011 Teens’ Top Ten and named as one of Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Children’s Books of 2010. The sequels, CROSSED and REACHED, were also critically acclaimed and received starred <a href="http://allycondie.com/reviews" target="_blank">reviews</a>, and all three books are available in 30+ languages. Disney has optioned the film rights for the series.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A former English teacher, she lives with her husband and four children outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. She loves reading, writing, running, and listening to her husband play guitar.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Follow Ally on <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/allycondie" target="_blank">Twitter</a> @allycondie and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allycondiebooks" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: x-large; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://allycondie.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> |</span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-86288726801316127112015-04-02T09:20:00.000-07:002015-04-02T09:20:08.095-07:00YASH Spring 2015 *Young Adult Scavenger Hunt*<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">GUYS! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Young Adult Scavenger Hunt is here again!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As I tweeted earlier, when YASH shows up, this is me:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixitHZ4-a12skZTaxAGgnEmr2YIV0N95mRUsHafsp6r4_RlQAOifOk9up5TdWmEUe9LfLnB5tznVvMNF0HjKyVz-oqCmd9gS9Xd5DXHaz_LThQmBuRkPaNOowAggVvmYpdZvWcph_n1ek/s1600/super+excited+gif.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixitHZ4-a12skZTaxAGgnEmr2YIV0N95mRUsHafsp6r4_RlQAOifOk9up5TdWmEUe9LfLnB5tznVvMNF0HjKyVz-oqCmd9gS9Xd5DXHaz_LThQmBuRkPaNOowAggVvmYpdZvWcph_n1ek/s1600/super+excited+gif.gif" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">*coughs*</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ok, so deets. You need details to participate...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">First off, if you don't know what (the) YASH is, I'll sum it up for you: It's a book lover's dream. Authors post exclusive content like excerpts and deleted scenes in addition to offering one of their books to the hunt winner (one per team, so 8 people are going to win big). Some authors post additional giveaways--swag, books, etc. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>This year's hunt begins at 12 noon PST, which is 3pm EST and 2pm CST...and ends April 5th at the same time(s). </b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The winners will be announced April 10th. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>JOIN THE HUNT! </b>Catch all the books...! (Yes, I did just make that Pokemon reference.)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Also, spread the word! Love on these authors! Have FUN!</b></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">You can find out more about the Hunt on the official <a href="http://yascavengerhunt.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">YASH blog</a>.</span></div>
<br />Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-68100317407618188942015-04-01T10:13:00.001-07:002015-04-01T10:13:17.145-07:002015 Unashamed Impact *90 Day Bible Challenge*<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://unashamedimpact.com/90-day-bible-challenge/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbtUQ2DjEIr4EJlgsDyeKHAtvfPqWWH4C0BDtfkEx-W4eYyaNklumsZHNOzmUPnhyKffsFNirrnd5bYTobR3RKrqq6bEyE5LHPQZghiIEXxzL605f1BcfuTSZAZkIwmSkQ4QSqvKT5NIM/s1600/90Day-Logo.jpg" height="93" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://unashamedimpact.com/90-day-bible-challenge/" target="_blank">(c) Unashamed Impact</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Woot woot! Told you April was going to be busy. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've one more challenge to share with you all today, and that is the 90 Day Bible (Reading) Challenge!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Yes, you read that right--this is a challenge to read through the entire Bible in just 90 days. Whether you aren't a Christian, have just become a Christian, or have been following Christ Jesus for years, this is a wonderful opportunity to get to know God. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Yeah, so maybe it's weird that I'm saying if you aren't a Christian you should sign up...but hey, I've read the Qur'an, the Bhagavad Gita, the Analects, and many other works of religion and/or philosophy, and I was able to learn a lot about other peoples' cultures and ideas and how they perceive the world. Essentially the point I'm trying to make here is that Truth is Truth, no matter where it exists. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">(Note that I'm not saying the Qur'an, BG, A, etc. are all truth and don't require filtering. The only Book that doesn't require filtering is God's Word, because it is God-breathed. I know, I know...if you don't believe in God, I get that you'd disagree with me...so don't take my word for it. Read the Bible yourself, and be open to the possibility. What harm can come of that?)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And while we as humans may judge a person based on what other people say about them, don't we all know that unless we actually get to know that person ourselves, we don't *really* know them? Rumors are, after all, just rumors; how do we know if they have any basis if we don't properly investigate?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Same thing with God. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Christians are supposed to be representatives, or ambassadors of Christ...but some 'Christians' call themselves Christian without actually following Christ. (Aka: hypocrites.) And despite what's been said of us, we aren't perfect and never will be on this earth--so yeah, we mess up (a lot). But those who follow Christ know that we are forgiven, and we get back up from our faceplant and press on. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Point is, instead of judging Jesus based on the actions of those who claim to know Him, why not just ask Him and find out Who He *really* is yourself? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So go on, take on the Bible reading challenge, even if you can only manage a few days. Try to keep an open mind; just listen, hold your peace...and then, when you're through, make your conclusions and act accordingly. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you're a new Christian and are hopping on board the challenge, great!! I remember reading the entire book of Genesis right after I accepted Jesus as my Savior and delighted in how wonderful it was to get to know the God Who said He loved me. One of the best parts: hundreds of Believers are participating around the globe! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And to the seasoned: the Word of God is alive and powerful! We are always learning and growing and being renewed in the Word. Read on! :)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I just looked on the site and it says that sign-ups are closed (I thought they'd remain open...I thought they did last year. I haven't been keeping up to date, obviously. Oops.), BUT that doesn't mean you can't participate! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here's a schedule:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguF0Oy5ii3dGWrmIRh7tO65HA7pzog14uC1OxeEzbx31ND44VIyevhZF_cfQ0fTObB41Nydm4z7Q4qv_AUngWWIWRSIfOvaUshLEZxHv2LgmPrlQ4wjKNi_A57mHebM8j6LEMeuBioG_Y/s1600/90+day+schedule.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguF0Oy5ii3dGWrmIRh7tO65HA7pzog14uC1OxeEzbx31ND44VIyevhZF_cfQ0fTObB41Nydm4z7Q4qv_AUngWWIWRSIfOvaUshLEZxHv2LgmPrlQ4wjKNi_A57mHebM8j6LEMeuBioG_Y/s1600/90+day+schedule.jpg" height="640" width="539" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Don't worry if you jump on a little late, or miss a day. Try to keep up with the pace, but if you fall behind, no worries! Make up the days at the end of the challenge ^_^.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>If you're participating (or have just decided to participate), comment below! We'll be reading buddies (with hundreds of other people around the world) :D.</b></span></div>
<br />Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-53837684909099373232015-03-31T09:27:00.006-07:002015-03-31T09:27:58.716-07:00Winter Jam 2015 at the BJCC<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuDYhej1ju_-WUoavznj0SZeZKYNq4D5nm9rI2g0jrUXhRNMSu6uiDwie8V3mN2n0MWVem-1C2DLjSU19ql5tdxepTjK36dNBuwEwW8ioM9XcMUrNmS9peMhO0eAR0g6HOILibzNhJaA/s1600/Winter+Jam.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuDYhej1ju_-WUoavznj0SZeZKYNq4D5nm9rI2g0jrUXhRNMSu6uiDwie8V3mN2n0MWVem-1C2DLjSU19ql5tdxepTjK36dNBuwEwW8ioM9XcMUrNmS9peMhO0eAR0g6HOILibzNhJaA/s1600/Winter+Jam.png" height="320" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep. PicLab. Don't judge me, I have self-imposed deadlines to make</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">March has been a whirlwind of me attempting to get my act together...and sort of failing...but I wanted to share my Winter Jam experience with you all before the month's up!</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So. Winter Jam. </span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's pretty much one of the coolest (Christian) concert events in the history of ever, and I got to see it at the BJCC the weekend before last. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">10 bands for $10?! I mean, you just can't pass that up! (And Skillet *_*! 'Nuff said.)</span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you want to learn more about the <a href="http://2015.jamtour.com/about" target="_blank">history of Winter Jam</a> and/or the <a href="http://2015.jamtour.com/artists" target="_blank">artists</a> that participated this time around, check out their <a href="http://2015.jamtour.com/" target="_blank">site</a> :). You can also follow WJT on several social media platforms like <a href="http://instagram.com/winterjamtour" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/winterjamtour" target="_blank">@winterjamtour</a>.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The concert was so incredible I didn't much care that we waited in the wrong line for over an hour, then waited in the right line (while it was sprinkling) for about as long...yeah...I dunno how that happened, either.</span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyway, if you have the opportunity to go to Winterjam, go!! I had so much fun :)</span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Also, waiting in the wrong line wasn't so bad because...we got to see a mini live performance by About a Mile!! Woot woot. It was totally unexpected; they just came walking down the street with their equipment, jumped onto a wall, and informed us they were About a Mile before singing their single, Satisfied. Here's a 16 second vid:</span><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxpcc_PXgRJp8gQYshpVFN-L2j27eD4ZRQglhXo3kYtdPIq4BT7b8X8aASp7WCBnZw21bkmZ8p4wTfRqsDi0g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yeah....It would've been longer than that, but my phone decided I had too much memory taken up :/. Lame.</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And, for helping the band out, one of the members of my youth group scored a free signed CD! :D </span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Favorite bands of the evening, in no particular order:</span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">About a Mile (backflip onto the stage as an intro? Check)</span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Francesca Battistelli (she sounds even more incredible live!)</span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Jeremy Camp </span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Skillet </span><br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some pics! </span><br>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br>
</div><a href="http://lynannecarroll.blogspot.com/2015/03/winter-jam-2015-at-bjcc.html#more">Read more »</a>Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-91466912825659136082015-03-26T07:07:00.000-07:002015-03-26T07:07:06.271-07:00HER SISTER'S SHOES Ashley Farley *Cover Reveal and Giveaway!* with MMSAI Tours<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Hello all! First post of the month...on the 26th. Rock on. *snorts*</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm excited anyway (lol :-) to present the cover of...Her Sister's Shoes by Ashley Farley...hosted by MMSAI Tours!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Required book info that you mostly already know:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Title: HER SISTER’S SHOES</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Author: Ashley Farley</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Release Date: June 24th, 2015</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Are you ready to see the cover?? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ok, yeah, I'm not much for waiting, either. Here it is:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvDkIXtG80wZXFPcgfVMmx4t7bp3A7NHQ9EaEItWV3XRVnlyM3bFsxO9cUTdd_UVD8nmSlOQQFXhyphenhyphenvCq3eL8SCYS2gk78uayvCkImaqfukMbZojCqjI25Pw7PP9PUSC6zonMYcZEHRYM/s1600/Her+Sisters+Shoes+-+Ebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvDkIXtG80wZXFPcgfVMmx4t7bp3A7NHQ9EaEItWV3XRVnlyM3bFsxO9cUTdd_UVD8nmSlOQQFXhyphenhyphenvCq3eL8SCYS2gk78uayvCkImaqfukMbZojCqjI25Pw7PP9PUSC6zonMYcZEHRYM/s1600/Her+Sisters+Shoes+-+Ebook.jpg" height="400" width="250" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Simple and sweet, right? I like it :)</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Her Sister’s Shoes</i> is a contemporary women’s novel that proves the healing power of family. Set in the South Carolina Lowcountry and packed with Southern charm and memorable characters, <i>Her Sister’s Shoes</i> is the story of three sisters—Samantha, Jackie, and Faith—who struggle to balance the demands of career and family while remaining true to themselves. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the midst of their individual challenges, the Sweeney sisters must cope with their mother’s mental decline. Is Lovie in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, or is her odd behavior normal for a woman her age? No one, including Lovie, understands her obsession with a rusty key she wears around her neck.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24919359-her-sister-s-shoes?from_search=true" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> |</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>About the Author</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ashley Farley is a wife and mother of two college-aged children. She grew up in the salty marshes of South Carolina, but now lives in Richmond, Virginia, a city she loves for its history and traditions.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After her brother died in 1999 of an accidental overdose, she turned to writing as a way of releasing her pent-up emotions. She wrote SAVING BEN in honor of Neal, the boy she worshipped, the man she could not save. SAVING BEN is not a memoir, but a story about the special bond between siblings.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Look for HER SISTER'S SHOES, a women's novel that proves the healing power of family, scheduled for release on June 24, 2015.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sign-up for Ashley's <a href="http://eepurl.com/vED0H" target="_blank">Monthly Newsletters</a> for new release information, giveaways, exclusive sneak-peeks and more.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When she's not working on her next novel, Ashley can be found blogging at <a href="http://www.chroniclesofavidreader.com/" target="_blank">Chronicles . . . An Avid Reader and Indie Author</a>.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6916019.Ashley_Farley" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ashleywfarley" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/AshleyWFarley" target="_blank">Twitter</a> |</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.chroniclesofavidreader.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a> |</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Giveaway Time!</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1 Winner will get a copy of HER SISTER’S SHOES!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Must be 13 + To Enter. Open to US only. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="3cb06a6e268" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3cb06a6e268/" id="rcwidget_akbecg9m" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
</div>
Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-15952465992958813532015-02-17T09:40:00.002-08:002015-02-17T09:40:21.218-08:00God Speaks: One Story of Many<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJrCQ98JaJlihqSjoxbzBGj232Yb5Wy6ADT2Pp-S2_LB2PO8KtlaFBvg82jrutcaNXs1QRx2-1d4j396r2xsOhQYtQMLxn_1wmZI6DmEdnvoFFiM8-0ckwzj0FmNpcbAjIdbk-Jb4l68/s1600/God+speaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJrCQ98JaJlihqSjoxbzBGj232Yb5Wy6ADT2Pp-S2_LB2PO8KtlaFBvg82jrutcaNXs1QRx2-1d4j396r2xsOhQYtQMLxn_1wmZI6DmEdnvoFFiM8-0ckwzj0FmNpcbAjIdbk-Jb4l68/s1600/God+speaks.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someday I will be good at photo-editing. Someday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This past December, I went to see <a href="https://vimeo.com/85258873" target="_blank">Magi</a>, a Christmas production put on by <a href="http://wordoflife.edu/" target="_blank">Word of Life Bible Institute</a>. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The performance was stellar—neat
lighting, fantastic singing and acting, compelling message—and I'm so glad I
was able to see it.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But as cool as the play/musical was,
that's not what this post is about. It's really about listening and
obeying God, and about recognizing that God speaks in a
multitude of ways.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Even if you don't believe in God, I'd ask you to hang around (though that's your call to make) because you and I can learn a lot in the most unexpected of places (and from the least likely of people). </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe and assert that Jesus existed in the flesh on this earth, and that He also <b>exists</b> as more than a mere historical figure. I also believe that He loves YOU.
He wants you to feel comfortable enough to just be with Him—to talk
with Him as a friend. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I understand it's unreasonable for me to
expect you to immediately jump on board...and I'm not asking you to
(but I won't deny that would be awesome). All I'm asking is that you
to allow me to share this story—this one experience of many—with
you in the hope you might, perhaps, see things a little differently.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">So. God speaks.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here's my story about what happened that night:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After the play was over, we had a time
of prayer. During this time, the main speaker of the 'function'
invited audience members to come to him/any of the individuals who
put on the production if they wanted to speak about anything—wanting
to know more about Jesus, about prayer, about what being a Christian
means, etc.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And suddenly, I heard "Go speak with him" and was nudged toward the first young man standing in the aisle to my left. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I
immediately thought it was from God, but I wasn't completely sure. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I wasn't sure if I heard what I did because I wanted to, if that makes sense; it'd be a good thing to go and encourage/congratulate someone, so why not? I reasoned that it could have been a thought spurred on by the invitation. In other words, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I wasn't sure if I was actually hearing God, or *wanting* to hear God. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Odd thing was, I didn't feel nudged to
speak with anyone else—just that one guy. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So I asked God in my mind (amid my other questions...namely, 'Was that You?'), “THAT
guy?” And again, more insistent this time, I heard Him again...specifically instructing me to speak
with, yes, *that guy*. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ok, not just me. I needed to go talk to him! </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Then my newfound certainty started to get weighed down with a healthy dose of
panic because I like people...but I'm introverted, and I'm not
exactly fantastic at starting conversations with people I don't know. Ok, I'm not always stellar at starting conversations with people I <i>do</i>
know. So I hesitated, asking God in a shrill voice (I'm a writer, remember? ha) “What am I supposed to say?!”
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Ask him where he is,”
God replied, bringing up the brilliant point that if I want to be a
missionary, I need to learn how to go out and speak to people. <i>Ouch</i>.... </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">“O-ok.” My mind was still raging
because I had no idea what I was doing, why I was supposed to ask him
that, and what. if. I. failed?! (And yes, I am that melodramatic. Maybe that's why I'm so tired all the time. Hmm...)</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But I knew this was what God
wanted me to do. In response to my hesitation, God said, “Just go
talk to him!”
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
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</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxz3tGe5MQJ5cknP2N_N0I0AfjdufvrhyphenhyphenLw35_3xofhvkdap1eICLeBrVPv_QelGuBTsk7ouQ2qkOdFnjgGyL8LxDoN0JA227EBlWQ7yIy11uXw7gDq72EPRHH1X0NL4Sajn5UD2-MS8/s1600/sokka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxz3tGe5MQJ5cknP2N_N0I0AfjdufvrhyphenhyphenLw35_3xofhvkdap1eICLeBrVPv_QelGuBTsk7ouQ2qkOdFnjgGyL8LxDoN0JA227EBlWQ7yIy11uXw7gDq72EPRHH1X0NL4Sajn5UD2-MS8/s1600/sokka.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">To the man! Sokka style.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After a bit of an awkward start—I
congratulated him on the performance, then continued to linger until
the man giving him tuning advice left—I explained that God wanted
me to talk with him...even though I had no idea why.
I didn't even ask for his name until the end of our conversation! (It was Reggie.) </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">He laughed and I asked him where he was (in life), and he told me he was
finishing his year at the Bible Institute. After explaining the program and sharing his love for it (btw, BI sounds incredible!!), I shared my background as Toccoa Falls College as a Missions major. I somewhat jokingly promoted missions because missions is fantastic :D and admitted I wanted to go to Japan someday as a missionary.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Reggie seemed surprised. A few moments
later he asked, his tone a mixture of curiosity and slight
desperation, “How did you know you wanted to be a missionary?”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Whoa</i>, I thought, <i>this must've been why God wanted me to talk to him. </i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So I expressed the journey God took me on since I was a sophomore in high school when I first became a Christian, and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Reggie confessed that he was uncertain of where God wanted him to go next--either to leave the BI and go into the field as a missionary, or to...*ahem* well, I forgot what the other option was. I actually wrote this post out in December, and then the draft didn't save T_T >_<! I was so upset and busy I put it off til now. Sorry!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Point is, God knew exactly what Reggie was going through. You remember that God had told me to ask "where he is" (in life implied)? I didn't understand why I was supposed to ask that until Reggie explained his situation to me. He was at a</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> metaphorical fork in the road, and I was sent to help him in his decision-making process. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I completely understood where he was coming from; I've struggled with uncertainty a lot. But God, knowing Reggie just as deeply as He knows me, knew he'd need lots of confirmation and assurance. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Reggie thanked me for talking to him and relayed how a lot of people had been bringing up missions around him lately. (Do you see the motif of assurance here?! lol)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My speaking to him wasn't coincidental.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">God knows you, knows what you're going through, and will meet you where you are. All you have to do is ask, and be willing to listen...because God speaks.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cheers!</span></div>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4248941205255861619.post-12458339526631890482015-02-06T07:02:00.000-08:002015-02-06T07:07:08.462-08:00Anni Moon and The Elemental Artifact Melanie Abed *Review and Random Things*<br />
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<a href="http://www.jeanbooknerd.com/2015/01/anni-moon-elemental-artifact-by-melanie.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivahSFpxMcFtbxcks87hs4y1DgsFRH2xpHUGj3Yt3Nf4f7Mj8jUioDYaTxHarZlpCP5gLzDDyJUUuQC3C6efam4I6XbEWKr5TJ8ychdpuOcT57q1FTmL1k-TUIWyUSSqnURTWqo0p0Qgs/s1600/Anni_Moon_Tour_Banner_2.jpg" height="195" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Hey everyone! My first post of the month (and not last, unlike January, ha) is a tour stop! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Today I'm reviewing Melanie Abed's Anni Moon and The Elemental Artifact.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This post'll have the synopis, my review, a stellar 'Top Ten' Random Things list, author info, and a GIVEAWAY! (And, as always, lots o' links. :D)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you want to check out the other stops, just click on the banner :)</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Synopsis</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETbrgCe7-LXMCCch2cSgYeITFO95gNR-Vddx_CNa9nJg_hoLkXdEPde8y8wn2OZEodc_T9c8vOgx1WR4HXJc_-Im2hGO7mcg7RgcP4aGvLNSb0ly8md8ttw3AuFnKsbAGqtdk9uAzck4/s1600/Anni+Moon+&+The+Elemental+Artifact.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETbrgCe7-LXMCCch2cSgYeITFO95gNR-Vddx_CNa9nJg_hoLkXdEPde8y8wn2OZEodc_T9c8vOgx1WR4HXJc_-Im2hGO7mcg7RgcP4aGvLNSb0ly8md8ttw3AuFnKsbAGqtdk9uAzck4/s1600/Anni+Moon+&+The+Elemental+Artifact.JPG" height="400" width="257" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anni doesn't know about Elementals, Funk, Zephyrs, excited talking
Bat-Rat creatures, and, least of all, Dragons. All that changes when her
best friend, Lexi, is kidnapped and forces beyond Anni’s control trap
her on a hidden, floating island in the Elemental world.<br /><br />In a
race against time, Anni sets out to save her friend. Along the way she
finds allies among the Elementals, but she is also presented with a
choice, one that might help save Lexi. If Anni agrees to an ancient,
open-ended contract, will her sacrifice cost her more than she’s
bargained for? Or will it land her in the middle of an age-old war
between the humans, the Elementals, and the dreaded Fectus?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Review</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anni Moon and The Elemental Artifact is a cute story filled with imagination and adventure.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This novel has a lot of potential. The story, the setting, and the elementals...it's all very creative, and I would've liked to see more specific details about this incredible other world. Maybe in the next installment? :) </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One thing of note before I dive in: I don't read much MG, so I can't say this with any authority, but I felt the novel was more of an elementary read. I'll start with the 'likes' first...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Some things I enjoyed:</i> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>The pov switches between Lexi and Anni</u>. Yes, switching heightened the suspense...but what I really loved about it was the fact that it was strictly friendship-based. I could count the novels I've read that don't have some sort of romance going on between the two pov characters on one hand. It was refreshing.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>Lexi's pov</u>. Ahh. Reading from her pov was like kind of taking a luxurious bubble bath because I liked her as a character and because, unlike Anni's side of the story, Lexi's was taut. The pacing was solid, the mystery intriguing, and the danger visceral. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>Whiffle</u>. I was on the edge of my seat with this character—good guy in a rough package, or bad guy disguised as a good guy in a rough package? Yeah, that probably doesn't make any sense to you, but my point is, he's an enigma throughout the novel. The revelation(s) regarding him were a bit of a let down in the end, but I *loved* the ride. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>Prophecy</u>. If you're looking for a shocking twist on prophecy, look no further. I was a little outraged about the affair...but I had to admit it was well played. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Some things I didn't enjoy quite so much:</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>Anni's pov</u>. Anni showcases some of the best parts of the novel in terms of creativity (i.e. the Elemental world). Sadly, her story—which takes up the majority of the novel—is riddled with extraneous dialogue that slows the pace. I often wondered when the novel was going to pick up again. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>Anni</u>. I know, I'm picking on her (sorry), but I honestly couldn't stand Anni for the majority of the novel; she's rude, loud/obnoxious, and she listens about as well as some of my more rebellious children -__- (I work with 1-2 yos at a daycare. And j/k about the face--mostly; I love my kids. Even when they don't listen, they still crack me up...).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I realize these are more pet peeve things, so the fact that she's like this won't annoy everyone—case in point, one reviewer loved Anni, stating her way of thinking is “just so real”. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Normally background would help me relate better, but instead of evoking sympathy or helping me understand Anni, it left me feeling miffed. The melodramatic nature of what she endured/endures reminded me of Harry Potter...except, with Harry, I actually related and felt he was honorable and intelligent. I didn't think Anni was—or could be—either of these until about 2/3 of the book later. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well, ok, there were these rare glimpses throughout, but it was difficult for me to connect with her train of thought/rationale most of the time. I might've blamed that on her age if it weren't for books like Harry Potter and Anne of Green Gables.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">All of that to say, Anni pulled through for me in the end, and though I can't say I'm fond of her, I do resonate with her for being courageous and determined. I tip my hat to the author for convincing me Anni has potential. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Overall</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anni Moon and The Elemental Artifact is a real gem (albeit an unrefined one).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There are many people who genuinely enjoyed this book and found it enthralling and relateable. I'm not one of those people, but you might be! You may never know if you don't try it for yourself. I'm willing to give the sequel a go...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Final Verdict: </b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Anni-Moon-The-Elemental-Artifact-ebook/dp/B00OA35FN0/ref=as_sl_pc_qf_sp_asin_til?tag=jamesval-20&linkCode=w00&linkId=M4SPN5B7RMXA6DQS&creativeASIN=B00OA35FN0" target="_blank">Amazon</a> | <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/anni-moon-and-the-elemental-artifact-melanie-abed/1120440804?ean=2940046207989&itm=1&usri=2940046207989&cm_mmc=AFFILIATES-_-Linkshare-_-OSM9yXwjjU4-_-2:2940046207989&r=1" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a> | <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Anni-Moon-Elemental-Artifact-Melanie-Abed/9780990706212" target="_blank">Book Depository</a> |</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Onto...Melanie's Random Things!</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Top Ten Random Mythical Creatures</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What a great category ^_^! I'm so excited I get to share this with you guys.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ready? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here we go...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Dragon</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>2. Griffin</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>3. Mermaid</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>4. Sphinx</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>5. Unicorn</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>6. Pegasus</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>7. Naga</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>8. Piasa</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>9. Phoenix</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>10. Kraken</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Personally, I'd love to see a Chocobo on that list. Oh wait. Chocobos aren't mythical.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">>.></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Seriously, though, I had no idea what in the world a Naga or Piasa was, and figured I'd post a little info on them--</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I about lost it when I saw the naga...I don't do sea serpents. It's just something about not being able to see into the water. *shivers*</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">According to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phaya_Naga" target="_blank">Wiki, a Naga</a> is a serpent-like creature who resides in rivers, sacred ponds, lakes, and caves. (No thanks. Ha) They are exclusively marine.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Piasa, on the other hand, is so much nicer. *SNORT*</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">According to <a href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/1163143/Piasa-bird" target="_blank">Brittanica, the Piasa</a> is a bird. Alright, so far so good. You wanna know what the next line told me? It's a mythical <b>man-eating monster bird </b>that was 'known' to swoop down and carry off hunters. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Me: O_O I'm sorry, WHAT?! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Yeah, they're uh, known for being a little too friendly I guess ^_^'. Moving right along... </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>About the Author</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In kindergarten my life's goal was to become a teacher who wore only pink and ate French fries all day long. Now that I've matured, my goal in life is to become a Miss Marple-Sherlockian-Jedi Knight--I'm totally serious, it's a real thing.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I love stories, and I've had the privilege of working in Hollywood for over a decade in many different capacities, working with celebrities, directors (I'm married to one, plus he's my illustrator), and a few executives (the head-honcho types that I can't talk about because I signed confidentiality waivers). I'm not sure any of these people would have hired me if they knew I had a closet full of mint condition Star Wars toys...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">However, the life of a freelancer is not for the faint of heart. I've kept myself busy with my extracurricular activities, from skydiving to scuba diving, a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, a degree in Fine Art, an M.A. in Psychology (with a focus in Neuroscience), and a few other things that I like to keep top secret. ...Some people think I'm a spy, but I'll never tell!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Melanie-Abed/783780501644430" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8647877.Melanie_Abed" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="https://twitter.com/Melanie_Abed" target="_blank">Twitter</a> @Melanie_Abed | </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">| <a href="http://www.melanieabed.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> |</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Onto the Giveaway...!</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ZCHtBeQrOunpikO9sYGRiQWu9ZrTwjIZYGxUW9DwhcfsPsHxXI5PTWCTPacsZlbuSfmyGitoIi0OMlMG8QpjB6UQL07G12gtbXQWVScEGz5qHYfFWOqyQdhRPc-xL_3quXuJ02V-Xn8/s1600/Giveaway+Banner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ZCHtBeQrOunpikO9sYGRiQWu9ZrTwjIZYGxUW9DwhcfsPsHxXI5PTWCTPacsZlbuSfmyGitoIi0OMlMG8QpjB6UQL07G12gtbXQWVScEGz5qHYfFWOqyQdhRPc-xL_3quXuJ02V-Xn8/s1600/Giveaway+Banner.JPG" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>1 Winner will receive a Signed Copy of Anni Moon & The Elemental Artifact </b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>1 Winner will receive a $20.00 Amazon Gift Card</b></span><br />
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INTL </div>
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Must be 13+ to enter</div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="e849f7751021" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e849f7751021/" id="rcwidget_qwtv6fqm" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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Lynanne Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03446703222017362173noreply@blogger.com0