~Winner Announcement - an ARC of "Wither" by Lauren DeStefano~

Before I announce the winner, I want to THANK every one who decided to participate in this giveaway/contest. I thank you for your participation, and for all your answers. It seems "Emma Roberts" is the front-runner in the race, and I think she would be a pretty good choice. I also liked the suggestions of Lyndsay Fonseca and Saoirse Ronan.  Personally, when I envisioned "Rhine", I envisioned her to be a girl who was not just beautiful, but also tough - very tough and determined. So I imagined Chloe Moretz from "Kick Ass" - I mean, that girl is a badass, and now that she has grown and gotten to be more feminine, I think she would be PERFECT for the role, what do you think? 

I honestly wish that I could get each one of you a copy this book - but since I haven't struck gold in my backyard yet, I have to pick a winner.

And the winner of the "Wither" Giveaway is:

***drumroll***

Ash of "Typing Tiara"

 

Ash has been emailed, and if she doesn't reply within 48 hours, I will choose another winner. The rest of you, please don't fret - I am already planning another giveaway. Again, I am so sorry for those who did not win, happy for the winner who did, and infinitely gracious for your participation as well as for your support. THANK YOU!!! :)

~Blog Awards for Blogging Buddies~

 

So, yesterday, I received the honor of being awarded "The Irresistably Sweet Blog Award" by the immensely sweet Monica Marie, and I must say - I am absolutely delighted, grateful and extremely honored. Thank you!!!  To me, however, the biggest honor of all is being part of an amazing community of bloggers (book bloggers, and otherwise) who are more than virtual presences to me, and are really more like friends. Just being their friend, interacting with them, is the biggest award/reward I could ever hope for. But...I never turn down CAKE! :)

The instructions, as they were passed on to me, are these:

1. Thank and link to the person who nominated you. 

2. Share seven random facts about yourself.

3. Pass the award along to 15 deserving blog buddies. 

4. Contact those buddies to congratulate them.

Seven Random Facts about ~Enamored Soul~

1. Ok, I know I'm weird, but I only have ONE true "book-boyfriend" that I truly love. I mean, sure there are lots of male characters in books that I absolutely adore, love and cherish who I wish were real men. But in terms of a character I'd want to come to life just for ME, the fact is there's only one such man. This gentleman's name is Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley. There has been no other male character written who could possibly have my heart like him.


2. When I was younger, my parents tricked me into believing that books were little treasures which could only be earned through hard work & good grades. While other girls in my class would ask their parents for toys or video games for their good grades, I received books. The first "book treasure" I received from my parents was an Oxford English Language Pocket Dictionary in the 1st which I carried in my school bag all year round! :)


3. I absolutely love ARCs - I love buying the actual book upon release too, but ARCs hold a special place in my heart. Their presence in my library signifies (and pardon my arrogance and snobbishness here) that I got to read that book before the masses! I think that's truly an honor, and I absolutely love it!


4. I am a writer. My first poem was published in a children's magazine when I was in fourth grade (It was a plea to "Save the Earth"). My first short story was published in sixth grade. This blog was initially a personal blog, but I didn't want to subject you guys to my anguished thoughts - so the posts were erased (saved, but erased!). I have a rough draft on a manuscript that I am not actively working on, currently - but I definitely plan on picking up soon after I am done with my medical board/licensing exams.


5. I cannot NOT finish a book I've begun reading - regardless of how awful it may be. I may end up writing a scathing review, but I always finish it so that no one can ever say to me..."but you never REALLY gave it a chance!" Also, the fact is, regardless of how bad the writing may be, or how predictable the plot may be, I have a nagging need to know how it all ended. Yes, I'm crazy.


6. Ok, you know enough about my book habits, so here's something else. I love shoes. I love, love, love shoes. I mean, I love make-up too. But give me heels, and I'm happy for months! Some of you may have heard/read me say this before, and I stand by it now: "Finding a perfect pair of heels is the equivalent of multiple orgasms!" On my perfect day, I'd be wearing a pair of sexy heels, and have an amazing book in my hand, with a sexy man on my side feeding me chocolates. *BLISS*


7. I love different accents. Which doesn't really mean I automatically love the people with those accents - just that I find different kinds of accents, sexy. Be it the Southern accent (love!), or the British accent (adore!), or the Australian accent (cool!), or a Malawi accent (whoa!), or someone speaking in the Jamaican patois (*drool*) - I love all kinds of accents. Also, if a character in a book is described to speak with a certain accent, I begin to imagine them speaking that way in my head, and by the end of the book, I go through a few days of craziness where I speak to everyone (except work!) in that particular (mangled) accent. What? I already accepted that I'm crazy!

Okay, next I'd like to present the award. Just to be clear, I know some blogs are "award-free", and I'm sorry if this comes as an inconvenience. You don't have to be obligated to display the award, I just wanted to show my appreciation. That, and this list is in NO particular order - I love you all equally. Now, without further ado, let me pass this award onto some immensely deserving people [make sure to pick up your award at the bottom of this post]:

Awarded : Shannon at "Books Devoured" : http://BooksDevoured.com/ 

Why : Because she has been extremely supportive of me, is so very sweet, and as a blogger she takes care to reply to each and every comment left on her blog! :)

Awarded : Rachel of "Parajunkie View" : http://www.parajunkee.com

Why : Because she's another wonderful blogger who is always helping her fellow boggers through her "Blogging 101" blog posts. Plus, she's oodles of fun to interact with.

Awarded : Jessica of "Total Bookaholic" :  http://www.totalbookaholic.com

Why : Because Jessica is an unbelievably sweet person who is incredibly sympathetic, sensitive and kind. She and I became friends while the Tsunami in Japan took place, and we sat at our computers staring at the news in apt horror. She made it all bearable.

Awarded : Yara of "Once Upon a Twilight" : http://www.onceuponatwilight.com

Why : Yara has been another incredibly supportive blogger. Her kind words, and her extremely thoughtful ways, have been a source of comfort for me for a while now.

Awarded : Margaret of "Lovely Lit" : http://lovelylit.blogspot.com/

Why : Margaret awarded me my first blog award, but that is not why Margaret is receiving this award. Long before the award, she had been an extremely sweet friend who I'd corresponded with, and she always displayed such affection, it was impossible not to love her.

Awarded : Evie of "Evie Bookish" : http://www.evie-bookish.blogspot.com

Why : I came across Ji-ye's blog not too long ago, but it's an amazing blog. But it was her beautiful comments (on my blog and Goodreads), tweets etc that truly made me realize what a thoughtful, sweet and kind person she is.

Awarded : Moni-Marie of "Monica-Marie a Work in Progress": http://www.moni-marie.blogspot.com/

Why : Hello, have you interacted with Moni-Marie? It's a hoot and a half! She's charming, sweet and is sure to make you smile.

Awarded : Karen of "Bookin' with Bingo" : http://bookinwithbingo.blogspot.com/

Why : Karen Haney was an educator, and it clearly shows in everything she does. She is kind, sweet, warm, thoughtful, and is always trying to find ways to spread awareness and knowledge. She's an incredible person!

Awarded : Courtney of "Stiletto Storytime" :  http://www.stilettostorytime.wordpress.com

Why : Because Courtney has an amazing blog, and great giveaways. She is so much fun to interact with, and is full of warmth. Once you begin reading her reviews, posts, Facebook comments, and comments that she leaves in answer to her followers, you're sure to fall in love with her personality.

Awarded : Angela of "Reading Angel" : http://www.readingangel.com

Why : Angela is one of the most open-hearted, generous, kind and sweet people I know. But I am not giving her this award because she has displayed her generosity to me, but because she has been a supportive and immensely sweet tweet-friend and blogger. 

Awarded : Misha of "My Love Affair with Books" : http://books-love-affair.blogspot.com/

Why : Misha has been a constant source of sweetness, kind words and comfort for me. Her taste in books is very similar to mine, and I thoroughly enjoy discussing books, televisions (read: drooling over Cesare Borgia together) and various other subjects makes me feel like I've acquired a life-long friend in Misha.

Awarded : Mary of "Sweeping Me" : http://sweepingme.com

Why : Mary is an extremely sweet person, a darling mother of two who may be busy as all hell, but never misses an opportunity to make me smile. Her kind words, and her thoughtfulness make her deserving of this award.

Awarded : Gabrielle of "Mod Podge Bookshelf" : http://themodpodgebookshelf.blogspot.com

Why : If you've ever talked to Gabrielle, you know precisely why she deserves this award. She's a beautiful person, inside and out. And her kind words, and her friendliness make me feel like I've known her forever. And you better not call her Gabby, or you'll have to deal with ME!

Awarded : Darlene of "Peeking Between the Pages" : http://www.peekingbetweenthepages.com/

Why : Darlene is thoughtful enough to read my posts, make comments on them. Her kindness, and sweetness bring a smile to my face, every time. Plus, she's mommy to darling Sammy, whose puppy-dog eyes (literally) make you melt.

Awarded : Samantha of "Kreative Karing"  : http://www.kreativekaring.com/

Why : Samantha & I have both experienced some losses recently, but her strength and maturity have made me respect her that much more. I consider her a friend, and as she has been there with kind words during my difficult times, I am here for her during hers. She's a darling person, extremely sweet, kind and thoughtful.

If you guys are not following these amazing bloggers, then you guys are REALLY missing out! Rectify this problem right now, and make sure to follow these wonderful blog and awesome people right NOW!

*Special THANK YOU to @SniffkyKitty0 and @SafariPoet for helping me understand "text areas" and how to put this award on my blog!*

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"Vaclav & Lena" by Haley Tanner - From Russia, In Love

Details

Title: Vaclav & Lena
Author: Haley Tanner
Publisher: The Dial Press
Release Date: May 17th' 2011
Available to order here: Amazon / Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Synopsis 

Set in New York's Russian émigré community, Vaclav & Lena is a timeless love story from a stunningly gifted young novelist.

Vaclav and Lena, both the children of Russian émigrés, are at the same time from radically different worlds. While Vaclav's burgeoning love of performing magic is indulged by hard-working parents pursuing the American dream, troubled orphan Lena is caught in a domestic situation no child should suffer through. Taken in as one of her own by Vaclav's big-hearted mother, Lena might finally be able to blossom; in the naive young magician's eyes, she is destined to be his "faithful assistant"...but after a horrific discovery, the two are ripped apart without even a goodbye. Years later, they meet again. But will their past once more conspire to keep them apart?

My Review

"Vaclav & Lena" by Haley Tanner is a beautiful and poignant novel about love that takes root between two immigrant children in the immigrant community of Brighton Beach, Brooklyn - a love that continues to grow over time. Being immigrants, Vaclav and Lena are the odd outcasts trying to find their voices and their place in the world. While Vaclav aspires to be a world famous magician, Lena is his assistant and his muse. While Vaclav resides in a household where he is loved and pampered by his parents, Lena is an orphan who lives with an aunt who mostly ignores and neglects her. While Vaclav knows some English and strives hard to master the language, Lena struggles with it, and stumbles her way through it. Vaclav's doting mother Rasia is still extremely protective of him and tries to instruct him the ways of Russian tradition, all the while trying really hard to be the best "American" mother for her now American son. 

Even at the tender age of nine there is a special bond between Vaclav & Lena - clearly evident in the way they do everything together, and how even at such a young age plan a life together in the future. Amidst the aroma of borscht, the goal-oriented lists of things that need to be done, and the English spoken in Russian accents, Vaclav & Lena (too young to give it a word or any designation) fall in love. But then one day, when Lena doesn't come to school due to sickness and Rasia, who loves Lena like her own daughter, goes to check on her - when Rasia returns, she tells Vaclav that Lena has been sent to live with a family where she will be happy. Shrouded under secrecy and a thick veil of mystery, Vaclav is never really given a clear-cut answer as to why this drastic measure had to be taken. But he appeases himself by wishing his beloved Lena goodnight every night, and sending all his love out to her through the universe, wherever she may be. 

Seven years later, Vaclav still wants to be a magician, has a girlfriend and still loves Lena. And we finally see that Lena is also in Brooklyn, and is living with her adoptive mother Emily, who she lovingly called "Em" (short for Emily, and a nickname for Mom, beginning with the letter M/Em). She has grown up but is still struggling with her identity, and her murky past. Fate brings them back into each others life, and before they know it, they are back to sharing secrets, making lists and reveling in each others company. But will they be able to continue being in each others life? Can they escape their past, or come to terms with it, especially when neither is comfortable even bringing it up? Can Vaclav weave some magic to rid his love Lena from the harrowing reality of her history?

Haley Tanner's prose is magical, and inspires the reader to not just read but feel the love that exists between Vaclav & Lena. The characterization in this novel is ruthlessly spot-on, and her usage of language (the way the characters speak) as a way to describe them adds to this. This novel has an emotional depth that exceeds the expectations, and I was so deeply affected by the characters and their story that before I could think, I found myself saying a prayer for Vaclav & Lena.  This is as much a story about assimilation, trying hard to fit into a place when another part of you has been left in some other country, as it is about love. It is also as much a story about a mother's struggle to protect her son, as it is a story about love. It is as much a story about true friendship, and great respect as it is a story about love. I was fully absorbed in the story, and finished it in a day's time because I could not wait to see what would happen with Vaclav and Lena. Ultimately, Vaclav and Lena have become as synonymous to me as Romeo & Juliet...always remembered together, never apart. I absolutely loved this touching and beautiful story - and I am sure you will love it too. 

My Rating : 5/5 Stars

Disclaimer:  I received a copy of this book via LibraryThing Early Reviewers. I was not compensated monetarily, or in any other way, for my opinion. The opinions stated in this review are solely mine, and are not representative of views of the author, or publishing company, of this book. 

~Movie Castings - Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini~

You know, as a reader, that when you are reading a book there is a certain movie playing along inside your head. There are people you picture that would take part in the movie, and play certain characters. ~Movie Castings~ is going to be a series where I'm going to take a book, and suggest a cast for it. I forewarn you, I may sometimes take liberty with the descriptions provided, and my choices are in no way representative of the book, it's author, it's editors or the publishing company. I make my choices based on the personality, demeanor, and the looks of the person, and these are my personal choices. I'd love for you to make suggestions/comments as well.

This week, I'm going to cast the movie for "Starcrossed" by Josephine Angelini. This book has overtaken my senses and I went so far as to say that I liked it better than the first installment of the Twilight series. Having said that, of course, I think it should be commissioned for a movie, and here are MY picks of who would play which role. What do YOU think?

Helen

Okay, this was the MOST DIFFICULT choice, because in all honesty, throughout the entire book, I kept picturing Josephine Angelini's face, from the back of the book, as a young Helen. I mean, look at her, she's GORGEOUS! So for this one, I had to sit down and think. I mean this actress is supposed to have "the Face that launched a Thousand Ships", that's a big responsibility. Honestly, I couldn't think of any ONE actress. So all of these following actresses have one attribute or another that I think Helen would embody.

Jessica Stroup - She was my first pick. She's got an ease about her, but also a ferociousness that is both alarming and delicious. She's young, and cute. I think she'd make a perfect Helen, although I'm not sure she's that tall.

Evan Rachel Wood - I think that she's played the adult and very conniving Queen Sophie Anne in True Blood, but that truly showcases her tranformative abilities, don't you think? She's certainly got the Face. If they can still have her look as youthful as this, she'd be perfect because she also has the height. Out of all the choices, she may also be the best suited to play both Helen and *ahem* a certain other Ms. Atreus. 

Jennifer Lawrence - Okay, so I don't really want to emulate The Hunger Games here, but it's just that...look at that face and tell me it's not one the Face that could launch a Thousand Ships? It so is, plus, she's tall, and she has that physique, very tall and statuesque that would be just perfect for some of the action-packed scenes in the script!

Lucas

Liam Hemsworth: I mean he's for the amazing bone structure, and the sinewy yet not bulky body of a Greek God - I mean, he's the first one that came to mind. Plus, he's tall...like super tall, and that's how I imagined Lucas to be, given that Helen is so tall. But as Jopsephine Angelini reminded me, Lucas is supposed to have darker skin (can't we just give Liam a nice tan coat!? Lol :P)

Steven Strait - He's got a slightly darker complexion, so that suits the description. Plus he has this raw intensity that I think would be absolutely insane on-screen as Lucas. I just don't know how well he'd do with blond hair! But is that turned out well, he'd be a dusky, blond piece of yummy, don't ya think?

Hector

Charlie Hunnam - Have loved his acting since "Green Street Hooligans" & he's tall,has an incredible body.And can play both Hector &/or Creon.

Chris Hemsworth - Come on,the guy's played Thor, he definitely has the physique for it. Plus, the audience would be getting two Hemsworth worth of goodies! ;-)

Ariadne

Lyndsay Fonseca - For some reason, I imagined the twins as brown-haired. The twins ARE brown haired & hazel-eyed, as Josephine was kind enough to point out to me! :) (Not that either of my choices would look bad sporting blond hair, but good to know my mind is still capable of retaining subliminal messages!). This is just a beautiful girl, and Ariadne is supposed to be alluring and beautiful. Plus, she also has the ample bosom that is the object of much scrutiny, especially when Matt is around! A part of also saw Ashley Greene playing Ariadne, but I'd rather not see ANY of the Twilight cast in this movie.

Jason

Luke Pasqualino - Okay, so we might have to bulk him up a little bit. But I am telling you this boy is PERFECT for the role of Jason. Jase is the voice of reason, the one always mediating between Hector and Lucas, and there's a certain quiet charm about him. Pasqualino has landed himself a role in "The Borgias" and instead of skidding by on his looks, he gave an immensely powerful performance playing the quiet but strong lover. So, I think this is our guy for Jason.

Taylor Lautner - Yes, yes, I did say I didn't want any of the Twilight cast in there, but I haven't seen a hotter brown-haired, hazel-eyed guy with that kinda muscles around in a while, so I just had to, ok? I still think Pasqualino bulked up could blow all of us away, but I mean, Taylor could be considered for the role too, you know? *shrugs* Just sayin'...lol :P

Cassandra

Saoirse Ronan - Even all grown up, Saoirse has a certain ethereal, sage-like yet innocent beauty to her that is both haunting and unsettling. I think she would be perfect playing the eerie Oracle who is also the darling sister. 

Evanna Lynch - Little Luna is all grown up, but like Saoirse, Evanna still has that child-like charm. Plus, with those penetrating icy grey-blue eyes, I am sure she could make anyone's spine tingle with her intensity! :D

Matt

Nick Jonas - Ok, sue me! It's not my fault his face came to mind when I thought of cute, nerdy but super stellar friend Matt! But I also have another suggestion....

Michael Angarano - Although Nick was playing through my mind as I read the book, I think Angarano would be an even better choice, because this kid does have some acting prowess, not just good looks. Plus, look at that mug, isn't he endearing? Wouldn't he be the guy that may understand nothing, but will still keep all your secrets and never leave your side as a friend? And you can totally see him drooling over Ariadne (Lyndsey Fonseca), no? :P

Claire 

Jamie Chung - Ok, I'm not trying to be politically incorrect. I know Jamie Chung is Korean, not Japanese - but it wouldn't be the first time that something like this would happen. She is gorgeous, as Claire is supposed to be, but smart, which she can most certainly play.

Okay, so that was MY list of nominees for the cast. But that's just my opinion. What's YOUR take on the cast? I would LOVE to hear what everyone thinks. Let me know which actors, and actresses you thought would befit the characters in Starcrossed. Just, please, I implore that no one suggest "Kristen Stewart" for ANYTHING...or else I'll have to put a hurtin' on that person. Thankyouverymuch! Also, if you haven't gotten your hands on "Starcrossed" yet, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Go and get your copy TODAY!!! :)

~Legends in the Making (#1) - Tymothy Longoria~

Hi everyone! I'm very excited today because I have a very special treat for you guys. My first interview! And not just my first interview, but the first of many because I've decided that I'm going to start a series called ~Legends in the Making~ in which I'll feature all the new and aspiring authors who are looking to make a name for themselves in literature. I want my blog to be a forum that gives a platform to the voice of these authors, showcases their talents, and promotes their work(s). 

My first guest that I will be interviewing is author Tymothy Longoria. What makes me really happy is that I am starting this series with not just an amazing author, but someone who is a dear friend, and a wonderful person. He's been an amazingly supportive friend, and an inspiration to me, and I can assure you that he will make a name for himself, and that his work will become the stuff of legends!

He's the author of The Stories: Book One- Genesis. You can click on the link, which will lead you to Tymothy's blog, and you can read all about his manuscript, and other amazing posts showcasing his writing talent. So, without further ado, I am going to delve into the interview my interview with this "legend in the making" that will reveal to you just who Tymothy Longoria is.

Question #1) Can you describe the first time, the first moment, or the first instance in which you realized that you wanted to be a writer?

I can. Describe the first moment when I realized that I could have something here. My Wife, Jennifer and I were talking one night. The conversation was about how I liked robots when I was a little boy and I used to draw them all the time. Robots with boxy heads and bodies-you know-old school ‘bots. I whipped out a notebook and drew the same little robot I used to. Little Tymmy would be proud. Jen mentioned she liked to draw swings and flowers and trees. Her drawings were very “little girl” mine very “little boy.” The next day it was business as usual at work when I received a picture text from Jennifer. It was a little robot swinging in a park. I loved it of course. It was our child hood selves together, for the first time. Jennifer often says she wishes she knew the “little me”. It happened to be our 10th anniversary a few days later and I sat at my computer. I searched for images of robots and I saw one with a sad face. It dawned on me. I decided to write her a story for our anniversary. It’s called The Sad Little Robot and is the story of a robot in search of friendship, wandering to and fro. As I was writing I kept thinking cool, this is cool. She loved it and we both said hey, why not? So that’s when it started. The night I wrote my first short story as an anniversary gift.

Question #2) What are some of the trials that you have experienced being a writer?

I hate to sound brash or pompous but because of my faith-that is just doing everything I can to make my dream happen-I have yet to encounter any real “trial”. My family supports me. My teenage son tells me often, “Can you hurry and finish your book?” So…I am very blessed.

Question #3) When one speaks about trials, one must also speak about triumphs. So could you tell us about the triumphs you’ve experienced thus far in your writing career?

Great question and one I am very happy to answer. Triumph is defined as a great victory. Achievement. I can say sincerely that writing The Stories has been my number one writing achievement. Putting my very spirit, my voice onto “paper” has been a tremendous blessing and a boost in my confidence in myself and in my faith. I could never say enough how much of an astonishing thing it is to know deep within that what you’re doing-was meant to be. It’s one of those things that will have people say “I didn’t know ya had it in ya!” Triumph is finding all of my Friends. All of them. Via Twitter, Facebook. Because of writing. That is a great achievement I do not take lightly.

Question #4) Can you name some authors that have inspired you as a writer?

I can name some well-knowns. I respect and admire them, of course. We all have our favorites. But I’ll let some lesser knowns in the “field” have their day. I am inspired by Indies. They have the drive. The want. The desire to be heard. They always seem to be so happy about their choice as well. Tiffany King, Author of Meant To Be. Megg Jensen, Anathema. Nicholas Denmon, For Nothing. Allie Burke, The Enchanters Series. There are so many more. I’ll move on with this: You never know when an Indie will be a new voice for the entire industry.


Question #5) Let’s talk about the most memorable moment of your life – what was it, please describe it to us.

Wow. In my short 31 years of living I have had so very many. I can say the day I got married.

When my son Jubal was born. Or 8 years later when my daughter Araceli arrived. Those days, those moments could never be topped. So I’ll say that, honestly, the night in Question 1. It is affected every decision, every dream. Every hope.  It affects my wife…and son…and daughter. Everything and everyone around me. The most memorable moment in my life was the night I realized I wanted to be a writer. It has changed me. Everything and everyone around me.


Question #6) Your novel/manuscript – Can you tell us about it in exactly five sentences?

Here’s the difficult question. I’m up for the task.

In a world where “fantasy” is passed down from generation to generation as history. Where myth is truth and stories are alive. These legendary characters have stood the test of time itself. They breathe with new life as new blood courses through their veins. They join together for the first time in an epic fantasy like no other.

(Exclusive copyrighted content for "The Stories" by Kimberly Atkins)

Question #7) When did the idea for this book come to you? What inspired it?

First let me say I have been so blessed to have so many say they can’t wait to read it. It really is
mind-boggling.

When exactly is hard to remember. But…maybe March of last year was the first time the idea came into my head. This is a very weird question. Let me explain. Just a few days ago, I tweeted, “The idea for The Stories. It came out of nowhere. New post on Aspire No More up soon!” So you see. The idea was inspired by, drum roll, please: nothing. I mean I really and honestly can’t say where it came from. I love art and music. I wish I could name something I saw or read but I can’t. I think it was a dream I had that subconsciously remembered. Because I don’t even remember having a dream about it. I was at work talking to my brother about some other ideas I had for non-fiction books. There was an image, a moving image playing in my head, over and over: A girl in a red hood flashing by. Then I could only see her feet, running very fast through a misty forest as the sounds of her breath filled the air. Suddenly she stops. Just stops. The creatures can’t be seen but they can be heard. She turns slowly to face the beasts and says quietly in a not-so-happy tone: “Do your worst.” It just happened to be that she was wearing red. My favorite color. I didn’t want to change that. It just happened to be that The Little Red Riding Hood was who she was. But over time, she became oh so much more. She immediately became L’orrah and the rest-God-willing-will be History. I know in my heart that she will prevail. Oh but that’s not all. SO much is going on. ;}

That was the beginning of The Stories.


Question #8) What advice would you give to other aspiring authors?

I’d say do it. I’d say do it. I’d say drop the aspiring. My blog is called Aspire No More. It can be simple semantics but I believe it’s so much more than that. We are who we think we are. The word aspiring for me means “almost there, but not quite.” For me, and many others agree,simply dropping this mentality is the first step to being a writer. Advice that I give to writers is ask yourself: What do I have to bring to the writing table? What do I have to offer? If the answer is anything but “All of me”, then take a little more time to decide what you want to do. Now I hope that doesn’t come off as crass but in reality that’s what it takes to truly make a mark worth calling remarkable and #epic ;}. You deserve everything writing has to offer. In turn writing deserves all of you.


Question #9) If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that word be?

Blessed.


Question #10) Last, but not the least, what can we expect from Tymothy Longoria in the upcoming year?

Constancy. In everything I do. I recently wrote a blog for the New Authors Fellowship entitled “No One Ever Said Hope Would Be So Beautiful.” In it I write that the word hope is greatly underappreciated. So with that in mind, I am full of hope that this year is the year for me. I’m no ignoramus about the industry and that it takes time to query and so on. But then again, I never thought I’d be interviewed…because I’m writing.

I will query. There is one agent that when I read what he is looking for…I teared up and prayed. I read it again and again. Because some of what he wants to rep is literally what I’ve written. Not my MS…but the idea. So this year…wow. Only God knows. But He has given me everything I need to do what I must.

You can also expect some video logs. A new trailer and a great synopsis for my Baby, The Stories:Book One-Genesis. I will soon begin The Stories:Book Two-The Bridge.

As you yourself can attest to I am a very hopeful man and this is only beginning for Tymothy Longoria. Of that I can assure you.

All heart, no pomp from me to you.

Be blessed.

Well, ladies and gentlemen, that concludes our first interview. I want to thank Tymothy, for taking time out from his busy schedule to answer these questions. I am sure you are completely invigorated by Tymothy's answers, I know I am! :) You can find and follow Tymothy Longoria via  Twitter, Facebook and his blog "Aspire No More".  Make sure to follow him, and ~The Chronicles of an Enamored Soul~ will continue to bring you updates, exclusive content and news on Tymothy's work in the future. I have no doubt in my mind that some day soon, Tymothy will be named as one of the authors who served as inspiration for another upcoming author, another "legend in the making."

"STARCROSSED" by Josephine Angelini - Gods, Bloodlust and an Epic Love

 

Details

Title: Starcrossed (Starcrossed, #1)
Author: Josephine Angelini
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: May 31st' 2011
Available to order here: Amazon / Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Synopsis 

How do you defy destiny?

Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.

As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.

My Review

Helen Hamilton lives a life of relative peace and quiet on the serene island of Nantucket. Not much happens on this island where everyone knows everyone else, and Helen is happy for it to be that way. Uncomfortable with attention, and physically pained by it, she lives her life like a quiet nobody, living alone with her father, the owner of a general store, since her mother left them both when she was very young. Her best friend is Claire, who being Japanese on the island is automatically different and much more comfortable in the limelight, but who still thinks Helen is bound to stand out, even if it sends her into pangs of physical pain. 

Helen's quiet world is torn asunder with the arrival of the Delos family who have moved from Spain. The Delos teens are the talk of the town before Helen has even set eyes on them, and gossip is abound as to how physically attractive they all are. Also, she is shaken by these strange nightmares she has been having, where she finds herself in a barren and desolate land, and upon awakening finds herself covered in dust and incredibly thirsty. And the vision, this hallucination, of three old women who are always urging and crying blood. But when Helen first sets eyes on Lucas, one of the Delos boys, her reaction is one that no one would expect out of her, not even own self, especially not her self. She attacks him. Regardless of how sexually attracted she may be to Lucas, and how intensely drawn to him she may be, her blood also boils at the very sight of him.

Unable to keep herself away for him, and soon realizing that she never will be able to keep herself away from him, she begins to get to know Lucas and his family better and realizes that she learns more about herself through them than she ever would have imagined. Through the Delos clan, including Hector (the hefty, aggressive one who keeps needling her to unleash her aggression), Ariadne and Jason (Twins who are both beautiful, but extremely sweet and understanding) and Cassandra (the youngest, the smallest but with the wisdom and aura of a million sages) and their parents, she is able to come to terms with who she is, what her history is, and what she is truly capable of - that sometimes what you read in the books isn't just a myth, sometimes it is as real as it gets. In the meanwhile, there are dark forces on the hunt for Helen, and she must learn to protect herself from them. In the process of all this, Lucas and Helen are attracted to each other like a moth to the flame. But like the moth's obsession with the flame only results in his demise, Lucas and Helen are not free to follow their desires...there are prophecies that have to be fulfilled, traditions to abide by, Gods to be appeased, and the whole world hangs in the balance of their distance from each other. So will they be able to resist temptation? Will Helen be able to save herself from the dangers that lurk around her? Above all else...will the epic romance between Helen and Lucas be able to bloom, or will it be nipped in the bud? You will have to read the book to find out...

OMGods OMGods OMGods! This book is so absolutely fantastic, I didn't read it, I literally snorted it like crack! The pages kept turning, and I keep getting invested. I laughed out loud, I shed tears...it was an emotional roller coaster. But also, it was so action-packed and fast paced, I felt like I was reading a Marvel comic, rather than a Young Adult fiction novel. I am sure parallels can be, and will be, drawn between Twilight and Starcrossed...but I can safely say that I was far more impressed with the writing and the characterization in Starcrossed than I was by the first book in the Twilight series, and I enjoyed Starcrossed far more. So Stephanie Meyers, you better watch your back, because a new diva is about to take the Young Adult literary genre by storm!!! Also, this book includes a lot of info on Greek Mythology, but author Josephine Angelini has done the subject justice, and the myths and legends are seamlessly incorporated into the storyline. This book was like X-Men meets THOR meets Hercules meets Superman type of stuff, but with a generous helping of romance, friendship, family and plenty of Greek Mythology thrown in there - the PERFECT mix for an extremely riveting read, I must say. There was a seriously cool, award-winning movie going on in my head as I read this book (about that: watch out for a ~Movie Castings~ post on this book on Wednesday of this week). I loved EVERY DARN MINUTE of it. Love, love, loved it, and would recommend it to EVERYONE!

So don't wait another second, Starcrossed hits the bookstores tomorrow - go out and get yourself a copy. I personally promise you, you will not regret it!!!Greek Mythology, teenagers, blood-lust, action-packed sequences, and an epic romance...what's not to LOVE? :)

My Rating : 5/5 Stars

Disclaimer: Although I received an Advance Reading Copy (ARC) of this book for review, I was not compensated monetarily, or in any other way, for my opinion. The opinions stated in this review are solely mine, and are not representative of views of the author, or publishing company, of this book.

~Sunday Stew - May 29th, 2011~

Sunday Stew is a Weekly Meme hosted Here at Books Devoured

Bookmark of the Week

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As you may all know (or for those who may not), my Uncle Paul passed away earlier this month, on May 8th, 2011. It came as a huge shock to me, even though I have borne the brunt of the death of a loved one, never before had it been family. Unless you count my grandmother who passed away in 2011 when I was still in high school, but she was a grandmother. When your middle-aged Uncle passes away, the experience is beyond surreal. My heart breaks every time I think of him - every time. 

Death provides rest to the sick and weary, but unrest to those they leave behind. It hurts SO much that I took my time with him for granted. That I never told him he was just like a father to me, how much I loved him, or ever really thanked him for being an amazing person and for making my family happy. I never got to tell him how badly I wanted him to dance at my wedding, although I knew it would make him terribly uncomfortable. I never learned how to make that Salmon the way he made it, he could make anything taste heavenly. Or have him help me decorate my first home because he had such fantastic taste in interiors, and really had an eye for beauty. How badly Adeel and I wanted to take care of him and his spouse in their old age.  I feel like a part of my past is gone, but it hurts even more that a part of the future that I planned is now missing.  I would give an arm and a leg, literally, to see him and hold him just one more time...but I'd give my LIFE for his spouse to be able to see him and hold him one more time, if I feel this way, I can only imagine...

But every time I see this, it reminds me that he does continue on in all of us - our thoughts, our fond memories and in all the wonderful things that he's done for us all. Don't be surprised if there aren't very many more bookmark mentions in the coming weeks, guys. I think I'll need to hold onto this one for a little while. 

Around The Web:

The "Splash Into Summer" Giveaway Hop is underway, hosted by the ever generous I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and Page Turner's Blog. There are close to 300 blogs participating (another show of generosity from the amazing blogging world!), and there are lots of prizes, so try your hand at luck, you never know the outcome. I had wanted to participate in this blog, but due to being emotionally drained, I wasn't sure I'd be up to handling the responsibility, so I desisted. I have yet to participate in a blog hop, but I really want to. I have decided I am going to learn how to use those Google Forms, and save a bit of money and definitely participate in the next hop. One must always "Pay It Forward". 

Also, I'd been perusing Goodreads the other day, and happened to be stalking chance upon author Sarah Jio's page. She happens to be the fabulous, and extremely sweet author of the new novel "The Violets of March", which is being hailed as quite the read by many. I've been almost obsessed with the book since I read the synopsis so I've been stalking vehemently keeping an eye on Sarah's page. Recently I found out that she is hosting a sort of giveaway for her friend Camille Noe Pagán who is the author of the upcoming release "The Art of Forgetting", which is another novel that looks absolutely fantastic. Sarah was giving away 5 signed copies of "The Violets of March" for whoever pre-ordered Camille's "The Art of Forgetting" and emailed her the receipt. Needless to say, I acquired a copy by way of pre-ordering my copy of TAoF. I mean, it would be silly not too - I was getting two books for the price of one, and both books I would MOST DEFINITELY want to get my hands on! Anyhow, there is only ONE SIGNED COPY of "The Violets of March" left - will you be the lucky one? Even if you don't indulge in this offer, I implore, beseech, no...BEG you to make sure to check out both the books (just click on each book below) because they really are going to make for excellent reading! :)

Around Me: 

Okay, so there is a lot happening currently. I am really excited to announce that I'm going to be doing an interview with an extremely talented, and immensely inspiring, author named Tymothy Longoria. The interview will appear in a few days on the blog, and you'll get to know this amazing aspiring author a little better. He is a source of motivation, inspiration, comfort and faith for me every day - and I am sure that when you come to know him, you will be astounded by him, as well. You can find him on Twitter or Facebook. 

Also, other than the interview, I may be missing in action for the most part of the week. But I assure you that after Friday of this coming week, I will have more time to spend with you guys. However, as my friends (not followers), I feel like I have an obligation to inform you guys that I will probably never be a blogger who creates posts every day, or regularly. I began blogging as a form of self-expression, and for sharing my love of books and everything else with others - but above all, because I wanted it to be a fun outlet. And if there is one thing I am not willing to compromise, it is just that - I will not become an automaton blogger, but I promise that I will continue to bring you pertinent content, and posts that are always going to be well thought out, and infused with my love for books (or other interests) and my love for you guys! :) That being said, I'm currently hosting a giveaway for an ARC copy of Wither , if you're interested, do check it out. Also, I wanted to thank Shannon for continuing to do the "Sunday Stew" post, and for bugging her to continue to do it although there are very few of us who participate - she's been a REAL sport through all this, and I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU to her! :)

With this, I conclude yet another intensely LONG Sunday Stew post! Thank you for reading, feel free to leave me any comments/feedback you may like. I wish you a blessed rest of the week, and that you'll continue to visit! :)