1. Well, I finally agreed it's time to get a new car. I've been driving around my 91 Toyota Pickup truck since, uh, 1991. I bought it new at the Toyota Roland Heights Center. My father-in-law went with me and helped me decide which one to get. There's 180,000 miles on it. When I purchased it I was a new bilingual teacher commuting into LA every day and also a grad student at CSUF. We'd just purchased our first home when the economy tanked. This truck has been with me through two different teaching jobs, infertility treatments, an adoption, trips to Utah and Sacramento, a funeral, and soccer games.
So it's kind of bittersweet finally giving this truck up. Either today or tomorrow I'll be visiting another Toyota dealership to pick another truck. Hopefully this one will last just as long so I can give to son when he's 16.






2. Books!


FALLING FOR YOU.



My YABC review:

http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/13965-falling-for-you

Teaser:

This story resonated with me on many levels. Rae's story felt similar to my own as a teen. What some don't get is how easy it is for abused girls to fall into abusive relationships with boys that first come across as loving but are in fact demanding and worse, abusive too. It might not make sense to those who aren't in situations like this. I know personally how easy it is to fall into an abusive relationship. Also the peer pressure of high school and even college to have a boyfriend can be pretty intense. Unfortunately, sometimes having any kind of relationship is better than being alone for someone that comes from an abusive background. So yes, Rae's relationship with Nathan was very probable to me.

What I loved about this story though is the hope that is woven throughout. Leo is the boy who works next to the flower shop. Rae feels comfortable around him. I totally loved him and how he tries to reach out to Rae. The poetry throughout gives readers a glimpse into Rae's world. A world others live in too.


3. TIMEKEEPER by Alexandra Monir



My YABC review: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/13779-timekeeper-timeless-2

Teaser:

This is a fast-paced time-travel romance with hints of magic throughout. I did feel it was a satisfying follow-up to the first book. For fans of enduring love stories that span time.






4. Another time-travel YA:



TEMPEST by Julie Cross

YABC review: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/11109-tempest-tempest-1

Teaser:

Fast-paced time-travel story with a new romantic couple. How far would you go to protect the one you loved from being harmed? That's one of Jackson's strengths. Throughout this story he struggles with what happens to those around him everytime he jumps. Sure at the beginning he mentions that there are no consequences but that later changes. This is one thrilling ride!






5. Finally able to read book three in the amazing Lux series by Jennifer Armentrout!




Love, love the chemistry between Daemon and Katy!



**Guilty pleasure:

Finally I'll be getting my hair colored and styled! Yay, no more gray roots!






**GIVEAWAY

The winner of last week's giveaway is Suzanne de Montigny! Please email me at [email protected] with your snail addy!



This week I'll be giving away a copy of either:

ADAPTION by Malinda Lo




This is a creepy horror tale that I really enjoyed.

or:


PIRATE CINEMA



This dystopian tale has a Dickens feel. Another YA I enjoyed!

















For a chance to win either book, just leave a comment!

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1. Got back on the writing wagon after falling off during the holiday break. So far making my one revision chapter goal. Also making the other goal of attending more writing conferences. Signed up to attend former writing mentor's class on the 19th.

http://occrwa.org/workshop_Genius-Plotting.html

Here's a teaser:

The mysterious, magical worlds of plotting and character arc merge in this intensive,
hands-on seminar by award-winning writing instructor and best-selling author
Louella Nelson. In this workshop, new and seasoned writers come away with a
dramatic plan for a current or future project—a completed, dovetailed plot and
character arc that’s a blueprint for writing the book.
Learn how to —
craft the novel’s major storyline
develop subplots
determine key elements in world-building
select a story goal

**So far loving my RWA membership. Now my SCBWI one is another story...

2. Was able to stay up to ring in the new year with family. I watched 4 episodes of Roswell the
TV series season One and realized that Netflix didn't have all those episodes!
Love Max and Liz so much!








3. Finally catching up on other reads now that Cybils time is over.

FORETOLD



Love this series so much.

YABC review: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/13384-foretold-the-demon-trappers-4


There is so much to love about this series. The characters are multi-layered with flaws and strengths.
Beck is a successful demon trapper but his past has been holding him back from the one thing
he craves: love and acceptance. Riley is tough and can kick some mega demon butt but deep
down inside she misses her father. Another character I love is Master Trapper
Stewart with his Scottish brogue and his no nonsense approach to life and dealing with the
demons of Atlanta.






4. TEMPEST








This book reminds me more of JUMPER meets GROUNDHOG'S
DAY.I know some are saying it's more TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE
but this novel premise of the whole time traveling thing actually makes
sense to me.

YA Books Central review coming soon!

5.
WOLF SPRINGS CHRONICLES: HOT BLOODED




Love Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie's werewolf series and can't wait to start this one!


**Guilty pleasure:

Getting a pedi/mani






****GIVEAWAY

Now I want to share some of the great reads I got from being a Cybils panelist!
Just comment on my blog and twitter about me for a chance to win:






This is one of the books I loved so much that didn't make the shortlist.

I will draw a winner's name next Friday!


Winners in US and Canada

**PLEASE give me a way to contact you if you do win!

Next Friday will be giving away another Cybils 'find'!

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I'm going to share each week my Cybils five nominated books I've read plus of course my weekly guilty pleasure!

1. THE HALLOWED ONES




This book surprised me. What do you think of when I mention vampires/dystopian novel and Amish?

Trust me when I say this combination works! And not in the stereotypical way either.

I LOVED this book!

A teaser of my YABC review:

Subtle horror elements throughout this story up the creepiness factor. Add to that a teen struggling with her faith and what she really believes in, make this a must read book!

Kuddos to the author for not being afraid to address some hard questions. I know that's what makes this amazing dystopian/vampire tale work!




2. MOTHERSHIP

This is a hilarious tale that includes some very hawt not too bright aliens and pregnant teens in outerspace. The protagonist's snark is funny.







3.





I'm a huge fan of YAs that include diversity. Tu books is one of my favorite publishers. Love the twist on multicultural urban legends that come to live. If you're wondering, a Vodnik is kind of like a male La Llorona meets the Mad Hatter. He's also a trickster. The protagonist's subtle humor and his attempt to 'save' his seriously ill cousin while making a deal with 'death' make this a must read!





4. Another dystopian tale from yet another one of my favorite publishers: Egmont! This one has a conspiracy angle mixed with high action that keeps the reader on the edge of their seats.






5. I was so EXCITED to get a copy of this to read! I read the free sample on my Nook and loved it. Can't wait to report back on it!





**Can you see a trend here? I've been reading lots of dystopias, vampires, zombies, time-travel, and fantasies.


**Guilty Pleasure:




I subscribed to EW--Entertainment Weekly--for my Nook. **A girl got to have a little celeb news too!

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I thought it would be fun to share some of the amazing Cybils nominated books I'm reading. I'm on the first panel to help narrow down 205 nominated YA fantasy/Sci-Fi books. **My favorite category!

This week I was able to read:

ADAPTATION has a subtle creepiness to it which is kind of like a YA Fringe. There's a conspiracy with creepy psycho birds that just fall dead out of the sky.






This one has a daughter of Lucifer who happens to find herself on Earth. Loved the voice of this intriguing tale.





This book is hilariously twisted. It kept me in stitches! A book that is sure to appeal to reluctant readers!








I really enjoyed this Groundhog's Day twist to a ghost's tale told through a boy's POV.






I really loved BUMPED, the first book in this series. THUMPED is the second book. I enjoyed the tongue in cheek twist of this dystopian world where HAIDMAIDEN'S TALE meets Reality TV only it's popular to get pregnant before 18. Or before the virus makes you infertile.



This one I'm really enjoying:



I love the Victorian feel to this zombie tale.

I also did another post of some more Cybils books I've read:

http://obscurekidlitauthors.blogspot.com/2012/11/cybils-love.html

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1. Well, got back from specialist. Good news? Thyroid is fine. Nodules haven't grown. Dr. said chances are really good that they won't be cancerous.

Yay!

Not so great news: My blood count shows that I'm at a higher risk for diabetics. My mother is diabetic. Her great-grandmother died of complications of the disease. I'm Latina. Even doctor told me my culture puts me at a great risk.

Then she noticed my liver count is up. This means yet another ultrasound just to be sure it's nothing serious.

Like son told me, "Mommy, it sucks to be you this month."

Need to concentrate on the good news.

In the meantime, reading always helps me when I'm kind of down:

2. Right now reading:




Total love the voice in this paranormal series that is DEAD LIKE ME meets YA.



3. Also reading:




Another fun Cybils nominated read. Witty banter and a setting that is Veronica Mars meets Twilight only written better.


4. Finished reading:




Intriguing dystopian tale. I picked this galley up at ALA12.





5. So want to see this:



Also I'm giving away copies of Alyson Noel's Soul Seeker series! Go to my other site, comment for a chance to win!

http://kimbacceliasweblogfantasy.blogspot.com/2012/11/book-giveaway.html




**Guilty treat:

I want to see the second and final BREAKING DAWN movie but will wait till next week.

Will pick up the latest PEOPLE mag as Channing Tatum is the Sexist Man of 2012:

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1. My mouth's been really sore after my root canal procedure. Yes, it did hurt. I had to have one of my bottom front teeth fixed. Not fun. I swear the temp cap looks like something from Nanny McPhee:





2. Sunday went to our first Lego League tournament. It was held at the Ocean Institute at Dana Point.




Son had a lot of fun even if they did get last place. Great learning experience which helps develop a love of math and science.






3. Some Cybil's nominated books I've been reading this week include two paranormals:




My YABC review: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/11854-croak


A little teaser:

Right off the bat, I loved the voice of this wicked, funny paranormal. Lex is a teen Grim Reaper with mega 'tude. She's filled with anger but doesn't know why. Only one thing is certain--she doesn't tolerant anything or anybody. Not a great combination.

The author does a great job of showing us Lex's world. When she's sent to her Uncle Mort's, after yet another issue at school, that's where all the excitement begins. Seems Uncle Mort is like a mentor to Reapers. He wants to teach Lex the family business. For once, Lex is speechless.

I totally loved this world. The town of Croak is like an in between world. The other characters also add their own quirkness to this highly engaging story.

Very unique and original descriptions of what happens to a soul once it dies. We even get a glimpse of the After Life. Who knew that elixir is in the drink of choice for Reapers?



DEVINE INTERVENTION has an intriguing premise of a wayward guardian angel that messes up with his assignment. This book was an interesting read though I couldn't help but think I'd read this storyline before.
But that's just me.





4. Also read one amazing YA dystopia tale:




Think DOLLHOUSE meets THE UGLIES. I really enjoyed this dystopia tale with it's fresh voice and engaging storyline.


5. And yes, another time travel tale:




So far this one is reminding me of the 80s classic SOMEWHERE IN TIME.

**Guilty pleasure:

After I get blood work done, I hope to go to local Barnes and Noble and grab the sequel to CROAK:




Totally love the voice of this series!





Plus will grab an iced tea latte from Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf:

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I'm posting my Friday Five one day early as tomorrow I'll be hosting the fab YA anthology, DEAR TEEN ME.

So here's a little taste of what I've done this week!

1. Monday had an amazing Skype visit with the girls at Immaculate Middle and High School in Los Angeles, Ca




Really loved hearing questions from the girls on CROSSED OUT and their take on my book!


2. Finished reading two more Cybils nominated books:




This YA paranormal takes place after protagonist finds a coin and a message to flip it. What happens next is a huge twist on the wishes theme only there are some serious consequences every time he makes a wish. I love how the author shows this. I get kind of sick of those books that don't show that there are consequences to using magic.







3. This YA dystopia meets steampunk is a retelling of the Edgar Allan Poe tale. It's the future and some end up partying while civilization as they know it is dying. Those who can afford it wear masks to protect them from the killer virus. I really enjoyed this tale and there's a cliffhanger ending meaning a sequel!




4. I really enjoyed this one ghost series and was excited when Marley mentioned the next book was out:




Yes, that's the Eiffel Tower in the background meaning this time the ghost hunting will be in Europe.


5. Plus, got the galley of this one:




I really loved THE HUNT which is HUNGER GAMES meets Vampires. Can't wait to read!

**Guilty pleasure:

We're going to Disneyland!


We have resident annual passports. Believe it or not Cars Land in Ca Adventure is still busy! Son hasn't drove this ride yet as the Fast track passes are maxed out. Hoping it won't be that long today!

Also check out my YA Books Central interview: http://www.yabookscentral.com/blog/meet-our-editors-kim-baccellia

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1. Finished reading TILT:




Loved it!

My YA Books Central review:


http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/13092-tilt



2. Also finished BREATHE:




My YA Books Central review:

http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/12959-breathe-breathe-1


3. Right now reading SON by Lois Lowry




I was so excited to grab a copy of this at ALA last summer! **Thanks, Linda Singleton for pointing them out to me!

This is the final book in THE GIVER series. Beautifully written, once again I'm transported back to this dystopian world. Loving it so much so far.
Scholastic October Tab book orders will have it offered too:

https://clubs2.scholastic.com/clubs/pdfs/core/2012/october/T_2_flyer.pdf

4. Next week should get my copy of RAVEN BOYS to read!







5. Met with YA librarian Julie Fitch at the Rancho Santa Margarita, Ca library. It's always fun to meet someone who loves YA and books as much as you do!

The teen blogsite is: http://www.rsmteenlibrary.blogspot.com/p/events.html

If your a YA author out here in South Orange county, Ca, Julie would love to hear from you!


**Guilty pleasure:

I'm getting my hair cut and colored. That's always a treat! Really loved the color but wonder if we can go a tad bit darker?

I'm still chicken to cut it shorter.

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There's been tons of great reads that came out this week.

1. Just finished reading THE UNNATURALISTS by Tiffany Trent





Really loved this steampunk tale!

YA Books Central review:

http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/13188-the-unnaturalists

2. Finished reading CURSED:




I loved Jennifer Armentrout's Lux series and this one does have a voice I really enjoyed. I gave it a 3 star rating because of the voice and the premise of a girl with a killer touch. I think what was missing(This is just my opinion here. Remember this is all subjective) was the chemistry between her and the cute guy. She's kidnapped and taken to a X men type of school where other 'gifted' teens live only most don't consider her gifted but rather cursed. I really wanted more chemistry to happen but I just didn't feel it. Still the voice is engaging and if you love paranormals like I do, you might give this story a try.



3. Went to Barnes and Noble to purchase EVERY DAY:




I was able to get the teaser to this YA Quatum Leap type tale and totally loved what I read. I was bummed I missed out on the galleys at ALA. I couldn't wait for it to come out.






4. Then I came home and found DEMON CATCHERS OF MILAN on my porch. I love Egmont books and this one has two things that really excite me: Italy and the paranormal. Ooh, so hard to chose which book to read next.




5. And then I also got the fab Tessa Gratton's latest:




Reading any of Tessa's stories is like having a love affair with words. You don't want the experience to end.


See what I mean? Decisions, decisions!


Plus, I still haven't picked up the third CRUSADE book by the fab Nancy Holder:





Love Nancy's writing! Meet her at ALA and also at RWA Nationals. She's so sweet and approachable. Plus I'm a huge fan of her UNLEASHED series too!


Ay, what's a girl to do?


**Guilty pleasure:

I have a new one that I'm able to download each Friday on my Nook:




Yeah, husband makes fun of me for loving this tabloid type magazines. I don't care. I love these magazines with all the gossip of Hollywood.

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1. Just got this in the mail:




As you know I'm going through yet another round of revisions on my sekrit YA project while waiting for copy edits of NO GODDESSES ALLOWED. It feels like this revising stage is never ending. I was really excited to know Kate Messner has put together a book on revisions for educators to use with their students but writers can benefit for this book too. What I love about this book is the examples it shows throughout from other children/YA authors. Kate Messner is not only talented but has been very encouraging, supportive to not only me but other writers out there. A must add to any author/educator's library!


2. Just finished reading this:




So happy I was able to grab a galley at ALA. This is one of those books that makes you ponder the age-old question: Would you do anything if it meant you could live forever?


YA Books Central review:

http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/13111-origin


3. Reading this right now:




Time travel novel that has heroine show up in 1500s Florence, Italy!

4. Critique Buddy's book is now available!









Fourteen-year-old Ali Caldwell’s father keeps her privacy so secure none of the kids at boarding school believe she has a movie star for a mom. Sick of hiding in the wings, Ali decides to orchestrate her own fame by posting videos of her and her friends on YouTube. Suddenly, she’s the new Hollywood buzz, and her mom wants Ali on her reality show. Now Ali’s in the middle of a media firestorm. The paparazzi have tracked her down, interview requests are coming from all over, and the hottest star in Hollywood asks her to the school dance. To top it all off, some stranger is following her around and sending flowers. It’s really starting to creep her out. But is he really a dangerous stalker, or just another cog in her mother’s publicity machine?



5. Got the latest Buffy comic:




Check back next month as I'll be doing a guest blog on me and Buffy!

http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2012/08/friday-fill-ins-if-you-like-buffy-try.html?m=1

**Guilty Pleasure:

I'll be going to the Irvine Spectrum to pick up this book:



Plus plan to grab one of my favorite ice tea lattes:




And visit my favorite Benefit makeup counter!

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Friday Five
Sorry, no vlog today as I decided to have a make-up free day!

First good news! My colonoscopy came up clean! This means I don't have to come back for another ten years.

YAY!

This week has been crazy with family drama on both sides. I was reading the paper today and saw this ad from AARP on a caregiver silently screaming. I realized this is us. If you don't know, my mother-in-law 'decided' to move back to Southern Ca. My 25 year old nephew is living with her and is a real saint. Let's just say this has been a very trying experience.

I was happy to find this: http://www.aarp.org/home-family/caregiving/?cmp=RDRCT-CRGNG_APR12_012

I'm finding out husband and I are a part of a growing trend: caregivers with aging parents. I love this site as it has some links that hopefully will help.

Now to books!

1. Loved, LOVED, this book:




My YABC review:
http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/12993-the-curiosities-a-collection-of-stories




2. Loved this book too!





My YABC review:
http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/12108-onyx-lux-2

**Can you tell this one is a big hit? Lots of positive reviews for this romance that has a ROSWELL the TV series feel plus a hot guy!


3. Right now reading this:




I met Hachette marketing director at ALA and asked for some James Patterson. So I was really excited to have a package come with this included in it. It's Patterson at his best!




4. Trying to get into this one:




The beginning is amazing but when it goes back in time? I'm having a hard time staying with it. I loved THE MAZE RUNNER so I'll give this one a chance.


5. Also need I say more about this one?




Love the covers of these books and the premise is really fun. A teen puts on a dress and goes back in time. This time around she goes back to 1770 in Paris, France.

**Guilty pleasure:

This Friday is our 27th wedding anniversity. Holy cow. Time goes by fast, doesn't it?

Later, hope to go out to a nice restaurant. Plus, maybe go to a fun movie with son:

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Excuse the lack of makeup but was getting ready for the prep for my colonoscopy(which is disgusting).



Plus, the t-shirt I'm wearing? It's from Kimberly R Pauley's YA book CAT GIRL'S DAY OFF.

It's says: When the kitty litter hits the fan get out of the way!

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Here's a teaser to the upcoming book ENTICE!

Entice Teaser Trailer from Sourcebooks Inc on Vimeo.

Dangerously exciting, darkly romantic – the teaser trailer for the next book in Jessica Shirvington’s Embrace series is here! In Entice, the war between Exiles and Angels is on—and Violet Eden is wanted by both sides. Living a secret life as a warrior protecting innocent human lives isn’t easy. Knowing who to trust is key, but when Grigori reinforcements arrive, it becomes clear everyone is hiding something. Even her partner, Lincoln. And with Phoenix more dangerous than ever, Violet is truly on her own.

Plus, join me for a fun meet-up with other Entice fans during the Entice Me Day 8-day celebration in September! Meet the book characters, bring your friends and come back for the big party on Sept. 15th where you’ll see the full book trailer, get sneak peeks and win prizes!

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Guilty pleasure:

I'm getting a pedi this Saturday. Yay! Always love those!

And yes, that's Jenny, my cockatiel, is the background.

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1. Finished reading:



This is a novel based on the MTV summer series TEEN WOLF.
What I really love about this novel has to be Scott's best friend Stiles. Unlike some of the ADHD stereotypes and 'labels' out there, Stiles is smart, loyal, and helps Scott in all the problems that comes from being a werewolf.

Kuddo to Nancy Holder!

My YA Books Central review:

http://www.yabookscentral.com/yafiction/12874-on-fire


2. Right now reading this:



First off, love the voice. Garsee gives a very real portrayal of a bipolar teen. I know as I grew up with a bipolar father. Add an urban legend and a ghost. You know I'm hooked.

YA Books Central Review coming soon!





3. Also reading this:


I picked up this galley at ALA from Lee and Low. Let's just say I'm really enjoying these multicultural short stories. It's so nice to read tales based in worlds with different cultures. So far one of my favorite ones is THE LAST DAY by Ellen Oh. The story reminded me so much of the stories my uncles would share about their experiences during WW2. My uncle Alden served in the Philippines and witnessed the mushroom after we bombed Japan. Though the THE LAST DAY is based in a futuristic world, I couldn't help but think of what the Japanese must have gone through after we nuked them. The images and writing in THE LAST DAY are haunting.

YA BOOK CENTRAL review coming soon!



4. Will be part of a blog tour for this book next week:




5. Latest Buffy the Vampire Slayer comic book:





And finally, another YA anthology:




TWO AND TWENTY DARK TALES is available on Netgalley right now. This is a collection of short stories based on Mother Goose rhymes with a dark twist.




**Guilty pleasure:

Plan to have hair cut/color tomorrow. Going to another hair salon since MIL now goes to my former one every Saturday. I want to go somewhere that is a little hipper. Plus I think it's time for a change.

Not ready yet for short hair. I want something to soften my round features.

More layers like this.






Plus thinking I want to try a more brown/red color this time:







I know! Choices, choices!

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1. Well this has been a $$$ week. Our water heater died. You'd think, no problem. Just go to Home Depot and buy another one, right?

Wrong. We found out our city requires a permit for any home improvement like water heaters. We have to file a permit and have a safety inspector come out and make sure our water heater meets the safety code.

Yes, seriously. And yes, our $500 heater ended up costing over double that as the safety code is changed every 3 years and our heater lasted 14 years. On the upside? I now can have a warm shower.

2. I did read this:





What can I say? Denise nails down the conflict/struggles sisters have. Only in this one the so-called 'perfect' sister has a deadly secret. What I love about this book is that secret is woven in at the beginning and also the emotions are right on the mark!

YA Books Central review coming soon!















3. Starting the latest Heather Wells story by Meg Cabot




4. Loving these Starbucks Refresher drinks that now are in individual packages.




I add fresh boysenberries and diet Sprite to my drinks. Nommy!




5. Want to start reading some of these short stories in the DIVERSE ENERGIES anthology by Tu Books




Love this publisher because it recognizes the need for more multicultural YAs. I'm a huge supporter of publishers that publish books that reflect not only my own multiracial background but others as well.



**Guilty pleasure:

My city is going to have it's first Farmer's Market:





Can't wait to see what nommy fruits/veggies are available.

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I'm having problems posting photos so here's the link to my Friday Five:

http://kimbacceliasweblogfantasy.blogspot.com/2012/06/friday-five_28.html

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My recap of ALA is here: http://kimbacceliasweblogfantasy.blogspot.com/2012/06/ala-recap.html

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Been posting over at: http://kimbacceliasweblogfantasy.blogspot.com/


1. Was able to get back to my own writing after over a month! Pushing self to just write and also telling self it's ok to be selfish and give myself permission to do this.

2. Also finding this whole parenting gig thing is hard stuff. I actually had someone tell me that her 'me' time involved her children. To me though I need to get away for a few just to regroup or I lose it. I personally don't think there is anything wrong with doing this. My mother's best friend Dee told us that if you don't give yourself permission to take care of yourself, no one else will.


3. Bummed that See's candy is going to discontinue it's chocolate caramel suckers. I ended up buying a whole box. Each sucker is 2 WW points.



4. Saw a link to this one self-help book that actually says to stay in an abusive situation. I was speechless at first, then very angry. Someone mentioned I should write my own blog post about my feelings on the article. I've been pondering doing something like this for some time. I need to take a chill pill right now so I don't come across as being angry but rather show why I feel the way I do.

5.





**Guilty pleasure:



Who knew #3 of this series would be so much fun to watch?

***Also so happy for latest Obama ruling that young people won't be deported:

https://apps.facebook.com/theguardian/world/2012/jun/15/dream-act-dreamers-immigrants

As a bilingual teacher I had students who lived in fear of being deported. I think I did have a few that were deported. Also my own great-grandmother's family were Mexican migrant workers. I'm happy for this news today.

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Greetings! Thank you for allowing me to be a guest on your site today Kim! I’m looking forward to having a tremendous time sharing posts and having “Giveaways” on various blogs with the Summer Teen Reading Party event! There will be amazing book titles and fabulous interviews with authors from all genres participating! Be sure to stop by and check it out!
When I look back to when I had less wrinkles and a smaller backside, I remember the excitement of summer! To be free from the confines of school and ready to make memories with my friends over the summer break, but I also recall having time to relax and read a good book. Whether it was on a vacation we had taken to the beach or a lazy afternoon in the backyard, I found the time to sit and experience the fantasy realms of some of my favorite stories. I’m a BIG fan of Greek Mythology and the legendary heroes of yesteryear. I believe this type of ‘epic adventure ‘writing help mold my own form of literary style and created a vast foundation of imagination outlets to pull from when I’m constructing my young adult series ELEMENTS. I have written and published two books in the series thus far and plan to release the third in the series just before summer begins in 2012.
The ELEMENTS novels follow the lives of fraternal twin brothers Gage and Talon Thorn. They were born from an ancient prophecy and have the extraordinary elemental abilities of fire and water. A wicked underworld emperor is determined to destroy the ‘Brothers of Prophecy’ and claim the earth realm for his own if the brothers don’t learn how to control their gifts and save humanity from the clutches of evil. The twins must experience tragedy, loss and defeat before they try to push forward and live up to what destiny has asked of them. The challenge has been set forth by dark forces and the world must put their faith in a pair of young brothers. The future is uncertain.
To find out more about the ELEMENTS series please visit Kate Fuentes webpage for more details.

Elements: The Beginning, Book One






AMAZON BARNES&NOBLE GOODREADS SMASHWORDS

Elements: Veil of Darkness, Book Two










AMAZON BARNES&NOBLE GOODREADS SMASHWORDS

Elements: Kingdom of Aqueous, Bk 3






I’m also quite excited to include a giveaway for your readers today! One reader can win an ebook copy of my first book, ELEMENTS: The Beginning, FREE! Answer a question, ‘like’ the Elements Facebook page and follow me on Twitter to begin earning points! A random winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter! Good Luck!
Also, check back throughout the month of May on the Summer Reading Party site and see if you could win ALL three books!

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/NmU4N2NlZDVhYjdiOGU4NmYyNWVhYzc2MjJkYzkzOjA=/

Thank you for having me as a guest on your blog! I really appreciate having the opportunity to speak with your readers!
Warm Regards,
Kate

To contact the author, Kate Fuentes, visit the following social media sites:
Kate Fuentes , Twitter , Sired Scribblings , Facebook , Pinterest

Author picture:

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I'm really excited to be hosting YA author Helene Prevost today. Her YA novel Desert Fire takes place in the Middle East. As you all know my brother-in-law Eihab and his family live in Qatar. My own sister has visited this country numerous times and is in love with the country and the people.

The trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_A06MNB_GO8







Bio:
H.M. Prévost is a writer, photographer, teacher and avid reader of YA fiction. Thrillers, fantasy and paranormal romances (that’s right, pretty much anything with a vampire in it!) are her favorite genres. She also loves to paint and has covered her house with murals. For many years, she worked abroad in the United Arab Emirates, which provided an exotic setting for her debut YA thriller, Desert Fire. She lives in Québec with her husband, two rambunctious daughters, and Ginger the cat.













Blurb:
Nick stared at the mini-CD. It gleamed under the streetlights. Only the dying American pilot could have slipped it into his pocket. . . .
After running to the scene of a plane crash in Abu Dhabi, Nick Chevalier stumbles across classified military secrets. A ruthless terrorist will stop at nothing to get them. As Nick investigates the cover-up behind the downed plane, he crosses paths with an agent from a covert espionage agency and makes the leap from high school senior to teen spy. But he realizes too late that he put more than his own life at risk—his mother and sister are also in danger. Does he have what it takes to outwit a terrorist who wants him dead and save the two people he loves?

Q: How long did it take you to write this book?
It took about ten months, and then a few months of intense revision after that.

Q: Do you have a specific genre that you always write in or do you try writing in different genres?
Let’s see. . . Desert Fire is a thriller. I have a middle grade fantasy novel called The Erlkin’s Lair coming out next April. I have a YA urban fantasy novel titled Bonded, which I am shopping around at the moment. I am trying to write a YA paranormal romance as well. I guess you can say I like variety!

Q: What do you like to do when you're not writing?
Most of my spare time is spent writing. Since I have two kids, spare time is at a premium! I also do some photography and I enjoy painting.

Q: One food you would never eat?
Horsemeat. I saw some at the grocery store and I wanted to throw up!

Q: Are you a morning person or night owl?
I’m not really a morning person, but I like to get up early to get things done. When I sleep in, the day goes by way too fast, and I feel like I haven’t accomplished anything.

Q: If a genie granted you 1 wish, what would it be?
Tough question! I think I’d wish for a Victorian mansion on a sprawling 500-acre estate, complete with a stable filled with Warmblood horses.

Links:
Website: www.hmprevost.com
Desert Fire is now on sale for $1.99 on Amazon and MuseItUp Publishing.
Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Desert-Fire-ebook/dp/B0062UNUG8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1324087827&sr=8-1
MuseItUp Publishing: http://museituppublishi

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Hi, Kim! Thanks for having me today! I’d like to introduce my character, Marion James, from my latest release, Read Me Dead!








I’m Marion James. My niece is Alexia Wheaton. She saw my sister and brother-in-law, her parents, murdered at the hand of a man we thought was a random mugger. Little did we know it was for more than their jewelry and money.
I teach English at the local high school, Bakersville High in Mississippi. I have a daughter, Alisa, and a wonderful husband, Dave. We took in Alexia and her twin brother, Matt, when their parents died. I don’t regret my decision. What I do regret is that I didn’t know Alex was hiding a terrible secret about the death of them. I didn’t even try to figure it out. All I did was sit back and let her deal with the death with her psychiatrist and her dad’s best friend, Dr. Carey Finnegan.
I regret the mistakes I’ve made, and I regret the decisions I made about dealing with Alex’s secret. How was I supposed to know who the real murderer was? How was I supposed to know that her life was in danger and I’m at risk of losing her forever?

Read Me Dead a YA Romantic Suspense
Alexia Wheaton’s problems go beyond picking a dress and a date for homecoming.
For seven years, Alex has lived with a painful memory - her parents' horrific murder. As the sole witness, she has kept quiet to protect herself, but when the local newspaper reveals her secret, Alex is plagued with fear that her parents' murderer will soon find her - and silence her forever.
Alex is catapulted into a race against time to save her own life and bring her parents' murderer to justice.

Excerpt:
There is a quick knock on the door. “Alex,” Aunt Marion says.
“Come in.”
Marion turns the doorknob and slowly pushes the door open. She peeks in first and then walks inside. She’s dressed in a blue tank top and black pajama pants with little blue hearts on them. Her hair is curled and her makeup immaculate.
“Good morning, sweetie,” she says hugging me.
I return the hug, and then Marion takes a seat on the edge of the bed. I turn to face her.
“You look just like Audrey,” she starts.
“Thanks,” I mumble.
“There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of her.”
“Me either.”
“Matty looks like Cameron too, don’t you think?”
I nod. Marion smiles warmly, and when she smiles, I see my mother. Marion and Mom were close, and at times, they looked almost identical.
“Alex, I’m really sorry about everything that’s happened. I know I was upset last night, but I worry. And now, I worry even more since that story’s out. I wanna talk to that Max guy and give him what for.”
I know that if anyone can make someone cower in fear, it’s Marion. I want her to be there, but she can’t get out of school as easily as Dave can take off work.
“Will you forgive me?” Aunt Marion asks when I don’t say anything.
“What for?” I ask.
“Acting like that last night.”
“Of course,” I say, “but I don’t really need to.”
“Good, but I do want to say that you aren’t allowed to leave the house without someone by your side. Preferably one of us.”
“I have a feeling Landon and Christian won’t let me out of their sight.”
She kind of laughs and asks, “What’s going on there?”
“I think they both want to date me. Christian even kissed me yesterday.”
“Does Landon know?”
“No.”
“Are you going to date either one?”
“I don’t know.”
“How come?”
“I just don’t think I need a boyfriend right now given everything that’s happened.”
“You do know that this will eventually pass, and you’ll have to make a decision

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This week's been crazy...as usual with my 4th grade scoring project. This gig is up on May 22nd. Then I accepted another project to help score KY reading passages in June. I love reading the student's writing and it also helps me keep a foot in the educational field.

So other than scoring I've been reading too. My finds this week:


1. SEE YOU AT HARRY'S





Totally loving this story. YA Books Central review:
http://www.yabookscentral.com/kidsfiction/12238-see-you-at-harrys





2. UNTIL I DIE:







This is the second book in the series and what can I say? It's a paranormal set in Paris. Love it!

YA Books Central review coming soon!


3.






Been hearing great buzz on this book about a girl that is captured during WW2. She's forced to either tell what she knows of the resistance movement or die a horrific death. Coming out next Tuesday! Ginger Clark told me to have tons of kleenex handy!

4. Buffy The Vampire Slayer #10



Wow, didn't see that ending coming! I'm a huge Buffy fan and really enjoying this season.


5. And finally my treat for this weekend:



I'm a huge Meg Cabot fan and can't wait to read her second book in the ABANDONED series.

**Guilty pleasure:

Husband and son going off to a father/son camping trip with others in our church. I'll be scoring as I have to get my 20 hours in for the week. I also hope to get some Wahoo Tacos. Love their fish tacos. Nom.




And tomorrow will get a piece of yummy Cheesecake Factory cheesecake. Yes, it's pricey but hey, it's Mother's Day and I so deserve!

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I'm posting now over at:


http://kimbacceliasweblogfantasy.blogspot.com/


Live Journal has been giving me tons of spam so I thought I'd try another blog stop. Please come over and friend me!

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Unique Twist on Mermaid Tale

Tristan finds out he's a little different than other teens after he's almost killed during a riptide. What happens next takes him on an adventure not for the faint of heart.

I have to admit this story kind of took me off guard. For one it's different than the usual mermaid YA stories out there right now. It's told through the POV of a guy, which gives this story an unique twist. The author nails the voice so it's believable and not forced.

I liked Tristan. His humor was refreshing. I did buy the whole clueless thing when he was around girls. Tristan kind of reminded me of that guy in high school I knew that hid his insecurities behind humor and off the wall comments. It was fun to see what really goes on behind that kind of behavior.

The dialogue is snappy and fast-paced. Another plus to this story has to be the world Zoraida Cordova created. It's very vivid with details of the mermaid's world to how they can shape shift around humans. Also we learn more about merman which hasn't really been addressed in recent mermaid stories.

Layla, Tristan's friend, at times is over the top strong willed but I think she does that to hide how she really feels around Tristan.

I did feel some of the plotting was a tad bit slow especially right after he finds himself in the hospital after his near death experience in the riptide. Also the story at times feel a little disjointed at times. Later, though the author weaves in more action that helps even that out.

Engaging, vivid tale that shows the mermaid world in a whole different light told through the eyes of a guy.

Good Points
1. Unique twist with a boy's POV
2. Good worldbuilding
3. Snappy dialogue
Do You Recommend?
Yes

Cross posted at:
http://kimbacceliasweblogfantasy.blogspot.com/2012/05/vicious-deep-by-zoraida-cordova.html

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