#WritersLife: Back to Academia!

#WritersLife, where I talk writing in real life.

This news has been in the making for a little while, and I'm so excited to announce that I am no longer unemployed! Cue confetti and celebratory imaginary GIFs because I can't seem to understand how they work.

Starting August 22, I will be a writing tutor for the community college here in Fort Worth. I finalized the paperwork this week and met with some of the tutors at the center to get a feel for it.

If you've been following this blog for a while, you may know I worked at the community college in El Paso after I earned my degree. It was at this writing center that I remember first hearing about Eric's gaming blog and took on the challenge to have more page clicks than him. I didn't think it would become an endeavor that I'm still doing two years later, but oh my word it's been two years since this blog started.

Moving forward, I am beyond excited to work with this college not only because the Academic Learning Center (ALC) is so chill and welcoming, but also because this campus is gorgeous!

The view of the reservoir!

The campus is directly next to the reservoir. When I pull into the parking lot, I see this beautiful body of water and lush greenery everywhere. Not only that, but the ALC is located on the third floor so I can look out the windows and see the water whenever I want!

And the inner campus is just as breathtaking! 

This pond is right in front of the doors to the ALC building!

I'm excited to get back into academia because I know it's more stable than marketing or publishing. That and the team has been so friendly and sweet. As the semester goes, I'll update on how things are going, but I'm about to be super busy.

I'm doing 19 hours a week tutoring for the moment, and I'm still putting in 24-30 hours a week at the warehouse. At this rate, I'll be reading manuscripts when I get home and then going straight to bed.

I keep trying to get back to the writing grind, but there have been so many hiccups, good and bad. In fact, this whole summer has been a hiccup. Since May I've been going nonstep, jumping between jobs, traveling across the country, and collecting all the Pokemon. I'm hoping with a full time schedule between these two positions, I can find the stability I've been craving and can focus back on my life again.

Remember guys: your life is solely yours. Don't hold back what you're destined to do or be because of other people or fear or comfort. Get out there and do everything you can so you have even more experience to draw from when you face difficult decisions. 

And if you're a believer, it also helps to remember that no matter what, God's got this. You just have to let Him do what's best so you can get out there and be your best.

#writerslife

Other posts you may enjoy:

• Waiting on Wednesday: Daughter of the Pirate King
• #WritersLife: Working as a (Creative) Writer
• Why I Write: Young Adult
• #WritersLife: Beautiful Moments
• Waiting on Wednesday: Vassa in the Night

Waiting on Wednesday: Daughter of the Pirate King

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a pirate book because pirates are my kryptonite!

Title: Daughter of the Pirate King

Author: Tricia Levenseller

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publication Date: February 21, 2017

Add to Goodreads

Goodreads summary:

A 17-year-old pirate captain intentionally allows herself to get captured by enemy pirates in this thrilling

YA adventure.

If you want something done right . . .

When the ruthless pirate king learns of a legendary treasure map hidden on an enemy ship, his daughter, Alosa, knows there's only one pirate for the job—herself. Leaving behind her beloved ship and crew, Alosa deliberately facilitates her own kidnapping to ensure her passage on the ship, confident in her ability to overcome any obstacle. After all, who's going to suspect a seventeen-year-old girl locked in a cell? Then she meets the (surprisingly perceptive and unfairly attractive) first mate, Riden, who is charged with finding out all her secrets. Now it's down to a battle of wits and will . . . . Can Alosa find the map and escape before Riden figures out her plan?

Debut author Tricia Levenseller blends action, adventure, romance, and a little bit of magic into a thrilling YA pirate tale.

Why I'm Waiting:

I'm a sucker for pirate books and always have been. The fact that pirates will be taking over YA in 2017 has me all sorts of excited! I know this cover isn't final, but I really just wanted to share the book. Female lead with sword-buckling escapades? Yes please!

What books are you waiting on?

Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: Vassa in the Night
• #WritersLife: New WIP and Book Recs
• Waiting on Wednesday: Heartless
• #WritersLife: Beautiful moments
• Book Review: Salt & Stone

#WritersLife: New WIP and Book Recs

#WritersLife, where I talk writing in real life.

Hello, lovelies! It's been awhile, but a lot of good things have happened since my last posts so let's get to it.

Firstly, my personal life is going very well. I had a phone interview yesterday and an in person one this coming Monday. I've been temping at a warehouse, but a job related to my field would be spectacular! Both involve schools: one is to be a teacher's aide in a elementary or high school, and the other is for an instructional writing aide at the local college. Clearly I'm not done with school yet.

Secondly, Pokemon GO released two nights ago and my brother and I are becoming Pokemon masters! My Squirtle is in the top percentage at CP 55, and Broski just evolved his Pidgey. We're practically experts, just saying. You can find more up-to-date info on my Pokemon training journey on Instagram. We plan on going out with his friends to the park this weekend to catch more!

With those important updates out of the way, let's jump into the words!

New WIP and DIY MFA

I downloaded the DIY MFA starter kit back in June, and while I've read it through, I took it one step further today and wrote down my writing goals and some of my reading requirements.

Reading during my undergraduate years helped me learn about craft, and reading YA novels after graduation helped me understand what's out there now and how these writers are making things work. 

I read a ton of fantasy and science fiction novels, but I write an even mix of fantasy and contemporary stories. I decided to take a break from my YA SF rewrites for personal reasons and get back into a writing routine with a new piece. Er, an old but new now piece.

In college, I wrote a short story called Blonde Hairs told from the perspective of a guy in a relationship. While the girlfriend is never present in the story, he finds blonde hairs throughout his day that remind him of her. I spoke with a friend about it, and he suggested showing more of the bad memories too. After thinking it over, I believe this story would benefit more with a novel or novella structure than a short story structure. 

I'm working on the outline first to gauge how long it may end up being, but I want to read more contemporary stories. Unfortunately, as I said above, I don't read a whole lot of them. I know Rainbow Rowell is huge and I heard those stories are fantastic, but that's really the extent of my knowledge.

This story centers on a relationship, but not necessarily the steamy romance if you know what I mean. I'm thinking of a story like One Day where individual growth is as important as the relationship growth. There's also a non-linear plot, so perhaps The Time Traveler's Wife could also help me in writing this story. 

I think it'll best match the New Adult genre, so I am welcome to book suggestions that are from YA, NA, or Adult. Any and all things will help. I want to capture the fun and youthfulness of love while also highlighting the mature and adult side of it. 

If you know of any books or authors that may fit in with a contemporary, romance, or non-linear plot structure, please let me know! No Harlequin please; I don't need sex stories. Of any kind. Ever. Erotica is not my cup of tea. I giggle too much.

New story. New goals. New Pokemon. Er, old ones that I can now catch. Seriously though, I think my reward will be every 1,250 words written, I get one hour with Pokemon GO. 

Gotta write 'em all!



Other posts you may be interested in:

• #WritersLife: Beautiful moments
• Waiting on Wednesday: Vassa in the Night
• Why I Write: Thankfulness 
• Waiting on Wednesday: Crooked Kingdom
• #WritersLife: Working as a (Creative) Writer

Waiting on Wednesday: Vassa in the Night

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a retelling based on a Russian fairy tale!

Title: Vassa in the Night

Author: Sarah Porter

Genre: YA Retelling

Publication Date: September 20, 2016

Add to Goodreads

 

Goodreads summary:

 

In the enchanted kingdom of Brooklyn, the fashionable people put on cute shoes, go to parties in warehouses, drink on rooftops at sunset, and tell themselves they’ve arrived. A whole lot of Brooklyn is like that now—but not Vassa’s working-class neighborhood.

In Vassa’s neighborhood, where she lives with her stepmother and bickering stepsisters, one might stumble onto magic, but stumbling out again could become an issue. Babs Yagg, the owner of the local convenience store, has a policy of beheading shoplifters—and sometimes innocent shoppers as well. So when Vassa’s stepsister sends her out for light bulbs in the middle of night, she knows it could easily become a suicide mission.

But Vassa has a bit of luck hidden in her pocket, a gift from her dead mother. Erg is a tough-talking wooden doll with sticky fingers, a bottomless stomach, and a ferocious cunning. With Erg’s help, Vassa just might be able to break the witch’s curse and free her Brooklyn neighborhood. But Babs won’t be playing fair. . . .

Inspired by the Russian folktale Vassilissa the Beautiful and Sarah Porter’s years of experience teaching creative writing to New York City students.

 

Why I'm Waiting:

 

Russian retelling? I am all over that! I love the influx of Russian stories this year.

 

What books are you waiting on?

 

 

 

Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: Mirror in the Sky (YA Science Fiction)
• Book Review: Fairest (YA Retelling)
• #WritersLife: Beautiful moments
• Waiting on Wednesday: This Savage Song (YA Fantasy)
• Book Review: Dorothy Must Die (YA Retelling)

 

Waiting on Wednesday: This Savage Song

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a new novel by a super talented author!

Title: This Savage Song

Author: Victoria Schwab

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publication Date: July 5, 2016

Add to Goodreads

Goodreads summary:

There’s no such thing as safe in a city at war, a city overrun with monsters. In this dark urban fantasy from author Victoria Schwab, a young woman and a young man must choose whether to become heroes or villains—and friends or enemies—with the future of their home at stake. The first of two books.

Kate Harker and August Flynn are the heirs to a divided city—a city where the violence has begun to breed actual monsters. All Kate wants is to be as ruthless as her father, who lets the monsters roam free and makes the humans pay for his protection. All August wants is to be human, as good-hearted as his own father, to play a bigger role in protecting the innocent—but he’s one of the monsters. One who can steal a soul with a simple strain of music. When the chance arises to keep an eye on Kate, who’s just been kicked out of her sixth boarding school and returned home, August jumps at it. But Kate discovers August’s secret, and after a failed assassination attempt the pair must flee for their lives.

Why I'm waiting:

I love Schwab's writing style and character development. Not only that, but this novel sounds so haunting when I read about monsters versus humans because so many humans have demonstrated monstrous qualities. I'm so ready to see how Schwab dissects that!

What books are you waiting on?



Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: Mirror in the Sky (YA Science Fiction)
• #WritersLife: Beautiful Moments
• Waiting on Wednesday: Three Dark Crowns (YA Fantasy)
• Book Review: Salt & Stone (YA Science Fiction)
• #WritersLife: Meeting Author Jenny Martin

Waiting on Wednesday: Mirror in the Sky

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a novel that hits me right in the feels!

Title: Mirror in the Sky

Author: Aditi Khorana

Genre: YA Science Fiction

Publication Date: June 21, 2016

Add to Goodreads

Goodreads summary:

For Tara Krishnan, navigating Brierly, the academically rigorous prep school she attends on scholarship, feels overwhelming and impossible. Her junior year begins in the wake of a startling discovery: A message from an alternate Earth, light years away, is intercepted by NASA. This means that on another planet, there is another version of Tara, a Tara who could be living better, burning brighter, because of tiny differences in her choices.

As the world lights up with the knowledge of Terra Nova, the mirror planet, Tara’s life on Earth begins to change. At first, small shifts happen, like attention from Nick Osterman, the most popular guy at Brierly, and her mother playing hooky from work to watch the news all day. But eventually those small shifts swell, the discovery of Terra Nova like a black hole, bending all the light around it.

As a new era of scientific history dawns and Tara's life at Brierly continues its orbit, only one thing is clear: Nothing on Earth--and for Tara--will ever be the same again.

Why I'm waiting:

I read this novel early last year and it's the first manuscript I'd ever read that was published this largely. I am so excited to finally be able to see it on the shelves!

What books are you waiting on?



Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: Three Dark Crowns (YA Fantasy)
• Waiting on Wednesday: Carve the Mark (YA Science Fiction)
• #WritersLife: Meeting YA Science Fiction Author Jenny Martin
• Book Review: Scarlett Undercover (YA Mystery)
• Book Review: Fire & Flood (YA Science Fiction)

#WritersLife: Beautiful moments

Life is full of beautiful moments. Sometimes those moments involve people, events, or places. Sometimes they involve beliefs, emotions, and magic. And sometimes, those beautiful moments are all we have left after change.

I don't know who will be in my life 1 year from now. I don't know who will be by my side in 5 years or who I will enjoy dinner with in 20 years. I don't know if I'll even be around in 20 years, or in 5 years, or even this time next year.

But being grounded is what will stop me from relying too much on the who's in my life. I know what I want to be: an author, a Christian, a good friend. I know how I can get there: writing, believing, listening, laughing. I know why: because these are the things that have always been inside me, even before I knew what they were.

I don't know when certain things will happen, but timing is always out of our control. If we spend our entire lives planning, we will never get it right, because just like we can't control the when, we never have control over the people around us.

Sometimes we trust people who only know how to hurt us. Sometimes we love people who can't love us back. Sometimes we share our soul with someone who changes their mind. Sometimes, we wake up and realize that we're facing the world alone, and while we don't understand why we are, it's important to remember that these people don't have to control your life. That's all on you.

I know love is simple, it always has been. If you love someone, you care for them, protect them, listen to them, and spend as much time as you can with them. Love is never complex, but the people are. Just because someone says they don't love you back, it doesn't mean the love was wrong, just that they are the wrong person to be in your life.

I've spent a lot of time in prayer since January. Something I've learned from God is that even when He doesn't intend for someone to be permanent in our lives, He does intend for us to grow from the experience. He won't send someone you believe is wonderful just to hurt you later when they choose someone or something else. He does it to show you that as wonderful as you thought they were, you're even more so because you loved unconditionally and are still able to see the beautiful world around you.

Pain doesn't go away overnight, or in a week, or even in years. There may always be someone you think of and feel a pang of sadness, and that's okay. You can't control the who's that come into your life, but you can control who you will be and how others will view you. You know the phrase: if you want a friend, be a friend. If you want to be surrounded by great, caring people, be someone who is great and caring.

Do I think some people are stupid for making choices that take me out of their lives? Certainly. I know my worth, but I'm also grateful to know how they feel now rather than after I've invested 5 years in them. My time is valuable because I'm not guaranteed tomorrow. And if someone doesn't see how beautiful you are, be grateful you were able to see some beauty in them before they walked away.

I have a lot of stress in my life right now. I have health issues, an unemployment status, bills to pay, and family problems like everyone else, but not everyone will be able to walk your path with you even if you helped them walk their own. It hurts. I know. But you know what? Keep on helping people with their stresses because as badly as you need it right now, you'll come across someone who will be willing to help you too, and that one will be the one who chose to love unconditionally just like you.

Love others. Love yourself. Love life.

And above all, know that so many people already love you right now.

#WritersLife: Meeting Author Jenny Martin

#WritersLife, where I talk writing in real life.

Last month I met the wonderful Jenny Martin in Irving, Texas and it was one of the most magical moments in my life!

Irving Library's awesome technical display for Jenny Martin.

The Irving Public Library is an amazing place and its staff is some of the sweetest people I've ever met. If you're in the DFW area of Texas, I highly recommend following them to know what their author series are because they have a ton!

They started off this event very similar to the Marissa Meyer event I attended in February. Super yummy cupcakes, Marked nail art, book cover rings (my favorite!), and book pins were available before Jenny Martin started speaking. I bought both of my copies of Tracked and Marked at the event and those covers are gorgeous!

We listened to Jenny and her partner-in-crime, Julie Murphy, discuss the questions we had over the ending of Tracked and what the next book meant for Jenny. She said that the sequel focuses on staying strong after adversity. It's a message that I desperately need to hear right now, and for that reason I am terrified of starting this novel.

Jenny Martin signing a fan's copy of Marked.

Jenny did not divulge which of the men will be around in the end, but I know in my heart Cash is the
only logical option here.

I waited in line to speak with her after the Q&A, and I suffered some serious speechlessness when I reached the table.

I walked up with my books, and I'm not sure I even formed the word 'hi' before Jenny said that she knew me. I said, "Yeah, we talk on Twitter." She responded with she remembered me from Twitter, but hadn't we met in person yet? When I said no, she said that she was so excited to meet me and that she wanted to give me a hug.

Jenny Martin. Wanted to give me. A hug.

I still haven't accepted that as a reality and continue to believe this was a huge elaborate daydream.

Jenny signed my books and we talked about Tracked and Marked and other car books and she said she loved my review of Tracked and I think I blacked out but can't remember. I do know I called my mom immediately after to cry and tell her how amazing this experience was.

I am so glad I was able to meet Jenny. I've haven't been working on the rewrite, but I'm hoping this night will encourage and push me to get back into it because writing has always been my passion, and I cannot let other people discourage me from doing something I've loved for so long.

If you ever get the chance to meet Jenny Martin, jump on that train! You need this series in your life!

Jenny Martin:
Website
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram

Have you read Tracked? What's your favorite racing novel?



Other posts you may like:

• Book Review: Tracked by Jenny Martin (YA Science Fiction)
• Waiting on Wednesday: Marked by Jenny Martin (YA Science Fiction)
• #WritersLife: Meeting Author Marissa Meyer
• #WritersLife: Meeting Author A.G. Howard
• Top Ten Tuesday: Top Reads on my TBR List

Waiting on Wednesday: Three Dark Crowns

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a fantasy novel about triplet queens!

Title: Three Dark Crowns

Author: Kendare Blake

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publication Date: September 20, 2016

Add to Goodreads

 

Goodreads summary:

 

Every generation on the island of Fennbirn, a set of triplets is born: three queens, all equal heirs to the crown and each possessor of a coveted magic. Mirabella is a fierce elemental, able to spark hungry

flames or vicious storms at the snap of her fingers. Katharine is a poisoner, one who can ingest the deadliest poisons without so much as a stomachache. Arsinoe, a naturalist, is said to have the ability to bloom the reddest rose and control the fiercest of lions.

But becoming the Queen Crowned isn’t solely a matter of royal birth. Each sister has to fight for it. And it’s not just a game of win or lose…it’s life or death. The night the sisters turn sixteen, the battle begins. The last queen standing gets the crown.

If only it was that simple. Katharine is unable to tolerate the weakest poison, and Arsinoe, no matter how hard she tries, can’t make even a weed grow. The two queens have been shamefully faking their powers, taking care to keep each other, the island, and their powerful sister Mirabella none the wiser. But with alliances being formed, betrayals taking shape, and ruthless revenge haunting the queens’ every move, one thing is certain: the last queen standing might not be the strongest…but she may be the darkest.  

 

Why I'm waiting:

 

I love reading novels about royalty, whether it's fantasy or historical. I can't wait to see how the fantasy elements play into this story!

 

What books are you waiting on?

 

 

Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth (YA Science Fiction)
• Book Review: Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson (YA Fantasy)
• Book Review: The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski (YA Fantasy-Romance)
• Why I Write: Young Adult
• Waiting on Wednesday: Heartless by Marissa Meyer (YA Retelling)

 

Waiting on Wednesday: Carve the Mark

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about the new novel from the author who inspired me to write book reviews for a blog!

Title: Carve the Mark

Author: Veronica Roth

Genre: YA Science Fiction

Publication Date: January 17, 2017

Add to Goodreads

 

Goodreads summary:

On a planet where violence and vengeance rule, in a galaxy where some are favored by fate, everyone develops a currentgift, a unique power meant to shape the future. While most benefit from their currentgifts, Akos and Cyra do not — their gifts make them vulnerable to others’ control. Can they reclaim their gifts, their fates, and their lives, and reset the balance of power in this world?

Cyra is the sister of the brutal tyrant who rules the Shotet people. Cyra’s currentgift gives her pain and power — something her brother exploits, using her to torture his enemies. But Cyra is much more than just a blade in her brother’s hand: she is resilient, quick on her feet, and smarter than he knows.

Akos is from the peace-loving nation of Thuve, and his loyalty to his family is limitless. Though protected by his unusual currentgift, once Akos and his brother are captured by enemy Shotet soldiers, Akos is desperate to get his brother out alive — no matter what the cost. When Akos is thrust into Cyra’s world, the enmity between their countries and families seems insurmountable. They must decide to help each other to survive — or to destroy one another.

 

Why I'm Waiting:

 

It's Veronica Roth. My author wife although we are now divorced following the ending of Allegiant. Basically, this woman and Marissa Meyer are two authors whose books I will buy before I even read the synopsis.

 

What books are you waiting on?

 

 

 

Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: The Architect of Song by A.G. Howard (NA paranormal)
• Book Review: Legend by Marie Lu (YA dystopian)
• #WritersLife: Meeting Author Marissa Meyer
• Book Review: Scarlett Undercover by Jennifer Latham (YA mystery)
• Top Ten Tuesday: Book and Writing Goals for 2016

 

Waiting on Wednesday: The Architect of Song

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about an NA read from one of my favorite authors!

Title: The Architect of Song

Author: A.G. Howard

Genre: NA Paranormal 

Publication Date: August 15, 2016

Add to Goodreads

 

Goodreads summary:

A lady imprisoned by deafness, an architect imprisoned by his past, and a ghost imprisoned within the petals of a flower -- intertwine in this love story that transcends life and death.

For most of her life, nineteen-year-old Juliet Emerline has subsisted – isolated by deafness – making hats in the solitude of her home. Now, she’s at risk to lose her sanctuary to Lord Nicolas Thornton, a twenty-seven-year-old mysterious and eccentric architect with designs on her humble estate. When she secretly witnesses him raging beside a grave, Juliet investigates, finding the name “Hawk” on the headstone and an unusual flower at the base. The moment Juliet touches the petals, a young English nobleman appears in ghostly form, singing a song only her deaf ears can hear. The ghost remembers nothing of his identity or death, other than the one name that haunts his afterlife: Thornton.

To avenge her ghostly companion and save her estate, Juliet pushes aside her fear of society and travels to Lord Thornton’s secluded holiday resort, posing as a hat maker in one of his boutiques. There, she finds herself questioning who to trust: the architect of flesh and bones who can relate to her through romantic gestures, heartfelt notes, and sensual touches … or the specter who serenades her with beautiful songs and ardent words, touching her mind and soul like no other man ever can. As sinister truths behind Lord Thornton’s interest in her estate and his tie to Hawk come to light, Juliet is lured into a web of secrets. But it’s too late for escape, and the tragic love taking seed in her heart will alter her silent world forever.

 

Why I'm Waiting:

 

I love NA novels that don't focus on sex. I love A.G. Howard. I love love stories that don't quite make sense on paper. I love anything Nathalia Suellen creates and I am so happy she and Howard are working together on these novel covers. Basically, I can't find any reason to not love this release!

 

What are you waiting on this week?

 

 

 

Other posts you may like:

• Book Review: Splintered by A.G Howard (Wonderland retelling)
• Waiting on Wednesday: RoseBlood by A.G. Howard (Phantom of the Opera retelling)
• #WritersLife: Meeting Author A.G. Howard
• Waiting on Wednesday: Caraval by Stephanie Garber (fantasy circus)
• Book Review: Fairest by Marissa Meyer (Maleficent retelling)

Waiting on Wednesday: Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a Japanese historical tale!

Title: Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale

Author: David Kudler

Genre: YA Historical-Fantasy

Publication Date: June 15, 2016

Add to Goodreads

Goodreads summary

Risuko.

Though Japan has been devastated by a century of civil war, Risuko just wants to climb trees. Growing up far from the battlefields and court intrigues, the fatherless girl finds herself pulled into a plot that may reunite Japan -- or may destroy it. She is torn from her home and what is left of her family, but finds new friends at a school that may not be what it seems. 

Magical but historical, Risuko follows her along the first dangerous steps to discovering who she truly is.

Kano Murasaki, called Risuko (Squirrel) is a young, fatherless girl, more comfortable climbing trees than down on the ground. Yet she finds herself enmeshed in a game where the board is the whole nation of Japan, where the pieces are armies, moved by scheming lords, and a single girl couldn't possibly have the power to change the outcome. Or could she?

Why I'm Waiting

I'm not sure if this is taking on a samurai tale or not, but anything related to Asian history has me hooked. Japan has so much history and I can't wait to see how this author handles it!

What books are you waiting on?

Other posts you may like:

• Book Review: Salt & Stone by Victoria Scott (YA Science Fiction)
• Waiting on Wednesday: The Star-Touched Queen (Indian folklore)
• Waiting on Wednesday: Outrun the Moon (Japanese-American historical)

Waiting on Wednesday: Caraval

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a fantasy show that I would love to see!

Title: Caraval

Author: Stephanie Garber

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publication Date: January 10, 2017

Add to Goodreads

Goodreads summary:

Before you enter the world of Caraval, you must remember that it’s all a game . . .

Scarlett has never left the tiny island where she and her beloved sister, Tella, live with their ruthless father. Now Scarlett’s father has arranged a marriage for her, and Scarlett thinks her dreams of seeing Caraval, the legendary, once-a-year performance where the audience participates in the show, are over.

Then, Scarlett’s long-dreamt of invitation to Caraval finally arrives. So, Tella enlists a mysterious sailor’s help to whisk Scarlett away to this year’s show. But as soon as the trio arrives, Tella is kidnapped by Caraval’s mastermind organizer, Legend.

Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. But she nonetheless soon becomes enmeshed in a game of love, heartbreak, and magic with her sister, with Legend, and with the other players in the game. And whether Caraval is real or not, she must find Tella before the five nights of the game are over, a dangerous domino effect of consequences is set off, and her sister disappears forever.

Why I'm Waiting:

This story sounds like so much fun! I recently saw La Reve in Las Vegas and if this could be a fantastic YA version, I am definitely down!

What books are you waiting on?

Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: The Star-Touched Queen (Indian folklore fantasy)
• Book Review: Fire & Flood by Victoria Scott (Science fiction adventure)
• Waiting on Wednesday: RoseBlood (Phantom of the Opera retelling)

Waiting on Wednesday: Wintersong

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a goblin-infused marriage!

Title: Wintersong

Author: S. Jae-Jones

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publication Date: February 7, 2017

Add to Goodreads

Goodreads summary

Beware the goblin men and the wares they sell.

All her life, nineteen-year-old Liesl has heard tales of the beautiful, mysterious Goblin King. He is the

Lord of Mischief, the Ruler Underground, and the muse around which her music is composed. Yet, as Liesl helps shoulder the burden of running her family’s inn, her dreams of composition and childish fancies about the Goblin King must be set aside in favor of more practical concerns.

But when her sister Käthe is taken by the goblins, Liesl journeys to their realm to rescue her sister and return her to the world above. The Goblin King agrees to let Käthe go—for a price. The life of a maiden must be given to the land, in accordance with the old laws. A life for a life, he says. Without sacrifice, nothing good can grow. Without death, there can be no rebirth. In exchange for her sister’s freedom, Liesl offers her hand in marriage to the Goblin King. He accepts.

Down in the Underground, Liesl discovers that the Goblin King still inspires her—musically, physically, emotionally. Yet even as her talent blossoms, Liesl’s life is slowly fading away, the price she paid for becoming the Goblin King’s bride. As the two of them grow closer, they must learn just what it is they are each willing to sacrifice: her life, her music, or the end of the world.

Why I'm Waiting

Goblins are usually overlooked so that intrigued, but I was also drawn to the idea of sacrificing life over passion. Most people might think life is greater, but without my writing, I would have no passion for things to pursue and most importantly, I wouldn't know how to help or connect with others because writing is how I try to do that. This book sounds like it will be spectacular!

AND THAT COVER. STUNNING.

What books are you waiting on?

Other posts you may like:

• Book Review: The Winner's Crime (YA fantasy and romance)
• Waiting on Wednesday: Outrun the Moon (diverse historical)
• Book Review: Spelled (Wizard of Oz retelling)

Waiting on Wednesday: The Star-Touched Queen

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a story that focuses on Indian folklore that I absolutely want!

Title: The Star-Touched Queen

Author: Roshani Chokshi

Genre: YA Fantasy-Mythology 

Publication Date: April 26, 2016

Add to Goodreads

Goodreads summary:

Fate and fortune. Power and passion. What does it take to be the queen of a kingdom when you're only

seventeen?

Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of Death and Destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire...

But Akaran has its own secrets -- thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most. . . including herself.

A lush and vivid story that is steeped in Indian folklore and mythology. The Star-Touched Queen is a novel that no reader will soon forget. 

Why I'm Waiting:

Again, I minored in Asian Studies for a reason, and my country of concentration was India. A YA fantasy based on Indian mythology and folklore? I'm going to be all over that. YA writing and Indian-inspiration--it sounds like the perfect arrangement!

What books are you waiting on?

Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: Outrun the Moon
• Book Review: Six of Crows
• Cover Reveal: Frost Like Night

#WritersLife: Camp NaNoWriMo 2016 Update

#WritersLife, where I talk writing in real life.

Camp NaNoWriMo has gone in a way I did not expect and is proving to be a mixture of joyful and frustrating moments. I'm pleased.

Cons of my Camp NaNoWriMo 2016 Experience

I am currently at 12,478 words. Where should I be as of April 15? At 22,500 words.

I'm behind, but that's my fault.

I have organized a way to fit my manuscript reading for the lit agency in between my work hours, so that's not the problem. The distraction comes from me trying to focus on things that are just as important as my writing.

I'm job hunting in the middle of baby NaNo.

My internship ends the first week of June (I think; it could be last week of May). So I've been looking for new work since March. I got my first interview on April 1, and my next will be April 22. All this traveling means less time to write, but it's still important so it's okay.

For those who follow me on Twitter, you may have seen my cries for help as I shamelessly promoted my online portfolio. That will probably continue until I sign new employment papers, so I'm offering a friendly warning to be prepared for those Tweets.

But alas! I discovered something amid the chaos!

Pros of my Camp NaNoWriMo 2016 Experience

The darling Rae, whom you all should follow and shower with love, tweeted some time ago about a blog post that talked about creating a DIY Writer's Retreat. 

The summary is this: reserve a hotel room for one or two nights, don't ask for the WiFi password, and write and work until you check out of the hotel (but the full article is very eloquent so check it out).

I decided to try it out at home this weekend to 1) save money and 2) because I had a four day weekend from work so Friday and Monday the house was empty.

Friday, April 8, I wrote 4.3K words. Monday, April 11, I wrote 3.1K words.

I average 1,200~ words per hour during my rewrite session because I have to care about which words I choose, whereas during NaNoWriMo 2015 I was averaging 1,000~ words every half hour (#1K30 on Twitter). When I sit down and close all my sessions and treat myself like I'm on a retreat, things got done.

I didn't call back my car insurance agency about my quote although I promise to do that...this week. I finished my manuscripts by Thursday so I wouldn't be tempted to read instead of write. And Monday I put down The Winner's Kiss by Marie Rutkoski to write those 3,000 words.

Because of this, I want to try to plan out sessions throughout the week. My day off is usually Monday and then if I can carve out alone time on Saturday that would give me at least two. 

My goal is to write 1,800 to 2,000 words a day to catch up, and then use sessions days until the end of the month. 

How's Camp going for you guys?

Updated Stats for Camp NaNoWriMo 2016

Start: April 1, 2016

End: April 30, 2016

Daily word count goal: 1,500 words (same as my original revision goal)
Actual average daily word count: 891 words

Current novel word count: 12,478 words

Projected end count: 70,600 words

Projected cups of tea: 55-70 cups
Current cups of tea: 35 cups

Cabin: Awesome girls from around the world!



Other posts you may like:

• #WritersLife: Participating in Camp NaNoWriMo 2016
• #WritersLife: Importance of Writing Everyday
• Book and Writing Goals for 2016

Waiting on Wednesday: Outrun the Moon

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme that focuses on the yet-to-be released books we're waiting for. It's hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm talking about a beautiful sounding (and beautifully covered) historical fiction story set in 1906 Chinatown/San Francisco.

Title: Outrun the Moon

Author: Stacey Lee

Genre: YA Historical

Publication Date: May 24, 2016

Goodreads summary:

San Francisco, 1906: Fifteen-year-old Mercy Wong is determined to break from the poverty in Chinatown, and an education at St. Clare’s School for Girls is her best hope. Although St. Clare’s is off-limits to all but the wealthiest white girls, Mercy gains admittance through a mix of cunning and a little bribery, only to discover that getting in was the easiest part. Not to be undone by a bunch of spoiled heiresses, Mercy stands strong—until disaster strikes.

On April 18, an historic earthquake rocks San Francisco, destroying Mercy’s home and school. With martial law in effect, she is forced to wait with her classmates for their families in a temporary park encampment. Mercy can't sit by while they wait for the Army to bring help. Fires might rage, and the city may be in shambles, yet Mercy still has the 'bossy' cheeks that mark her as someone who gets things done. But what can one teenaged girl do to heal so many suffering in her broken city?

Why I'm Waiting:

This story captured me with its Asian-American roots. I love the cultures of Asia and have fallen in love with so many transition stories (A Step from Heaven and American Born Chinese are among my favorite books of all time). Pair that with the historical twist and I'm sold!

What books are you waiting on?

You can pre-order Outrun the Moon on Amazon: Hardcover and digital copy. 

Other posts you may like:

• Waiting on Wednesday: RoseBlood
• Waiting on Wednesday: Marked
• Book Review: The Winner's Curse