tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77578756475728912712024-03-05T16:34:13.229-08:00CK Green Author BlogCindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-8895459716855249322011-08-09T02:55:00.000-07:002011-08-09T02:59:53.308-07:00Writing, Writing, Busy, BusyIt's official! I am back to writing. Yes, my butt is firmly in the seat and words are being added to the pages. After months of hiatus, I am working on the 2nd book in my Faery Guardian series and it is coming together wonderfully. In fact, I have a working blurb for you. Thanks to everyone who has shown interest in this project:
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<br /><p><b><span style="color: rgb(106, 168, 79);">Sold My Soul to a Frog</span></b> (short novella) Book 2 in the Faery Guardian Series
<br /></p> <p> </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">She thought her life couldn’t get any worse…and then she met Brimble. He’s a trickster, he’s a…frog. </span></p> <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms,sans-serif;">I, Averil Kavanagh, had thrown away one of my best friends for a guy—a guy I thought I was in love with. What a mistake. But now I had a chance to prove a point to Brett that he couldn’t have any girl he wanted. With the help of a deal I made with a magic welding frog and Brett’s gorgeous basketball teammate, Dylan Breckman, I might </span>make my point or was I losing my heart to Dylan. That just couldn’t be. Dylan was under a spell; he didn’t really care for me. I wasn’t going to make a fool of myself again like I had over Brett. Was I?</span>
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<br />CK Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11259022661040567902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-32355359820861469352011-07-16T15:24:00.000-07:002011-08-09T02:54:09.621-07:00Avalon High: a Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-suBbWky0jOg/TiIPe9Ct3dI/AAAAAAAAA-c/6nkLF9Jcotc/s1600/Avalon+High+bookcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-suBbWky0jOg/TiIPe9Ct3dI/AAAAAAAAA-c/6nkLF9Jcotc/s1600/Avalon+High+bookcover.jpg" border="0" /></a></div>
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<br /><div class="MsoNormal">I’ve been a big fan of Meg Cabot’s books for quite a few years now. I love her writing, her sense of humor, her way of getting into the head the modern day teen. (By the way, her blog at <a href="http://www.megcabot.com/">http://www.megcabot.com/</a> is a hoot.) Now I can’t condone all that she’s written, but overall her works are fun reads. <i>Avalon High</i> is no exception. I really loved it.</div><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i>Avalon High</i> is set in modern day <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Maryland</st1:place></st1:state> with heroine Ellie Harrison moving into a new community with her Medieval Studies parents. She begins to realize that all her new acquaintances from Avalon High School may actually be reincarnations of those included in King Arthur lore—most especially Will Wagner aka: Arthur. If you’ve read any of the original King Arthur stories and are familiar with the traditions, you will appreciate what Meg has put together in this novel. She’s taken the idea that after King Arthur died he would return when needed and those supporters of Mordred would try to stop him.</div><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Cabot has written a novel similar to her others in the YA genre. The language and tone is relevant to today’s teens. It’s a fun and enjoyable read. You want to spend time with these characters, to get to know them, to follow them through this adventure to the end, and to see if Ellie and Will are meant to be together and are able to save the world.</div><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Although there are things I love about the <i>Princess Diaries</i> (and Mia is a character who will never be replaced in the sphere of my favorite heroines), I have to say that I enjoyed <i>Avalon High</i> even more so. Maybe it’s the sweet story with a plot strongly revolving around the adventure. Whatever it may be, I definitely give this book my recommendation.</div><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Avalon-High-Meg-Cabot/dp/0060755881/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1310853409&sr=1-1">Available wherever books are sold</a>.</div><div class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; text-align: center;" align="center"><u>Movie vs. the Book</u></div><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Now what about the <i>Avalon High</i> movie recently aired on the Disney Channel? </div><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Well, that is a horse of another color. I was really looking forward to the movie. The main character Ellie was to be played by Britt Robertson recently in the short-lived but well-done series <i>Life Unexpected</i>. Unfortunately, the producers completely changed the plot of the book, took away from the original Cabot tale and the excellent connection to the King Arthur storyline. They added unnecessary characters and reworked the intentions of characters to the exact opposite of their original counterpart in the novel. It was actually painful to watch the film, and I felt sorry for Meg that her story has thus been shredded and flambéed. Watch it if you must but do yourself a favor and read the book instead.</div>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-46354679424971930392010-11-10T13:54:00.000-08:002010-11-10T13:54:20.818-08:00Conclusion of the Harry Potter Movie Franchise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/TNsRHQu4liI/AAAAAAAAA7g/RfqU9L2iHLg/s1600/Harry-Potter-and-the-Deadly-Hallows-script.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/TNsRHQu4liI/AAAAAAAAA7g/RfqU9L2iHLg/s200/Harry-Potter-and-the-Deadly-Hallows-script.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Last week I read an article about the conclusion to the Harry Potter films. The story focused on the three leads of the series Daniel Radcliffe (Harry), Rupert Grint (Ron) and Emma Watson (Hermione). I truly found the article refreshing. Here are these three young people who have made a name and a good deal of money for themselves off of these films. They've spent half of their lives with many of the people making these films and I'm happy to report that they are insightful enough to be appreciative of it all from the great opportunity of being a part of this franchise to recognizing the people behind the films. In many ways they are going to miss this part of their lives. It's become such a part of them. More than that, they are really going to miss all of these people associated with the films as they go on into their adult lives.<br />
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I also enjoyed seeing how the three of them have grown over the years, what their perspectives are now on film and such, and what they have planned for the future. Some of their experiences were so opposite and yet they were working on the same film. I say good for all of them. I've always thought they were a good group and hope to hear that they've overcome the plight of many kid stars (especially those who grew up in Hollywood) to become healthy, happy adults in whatever pursuits they decide upon.<br />
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Good luck Daniel, Rupert and Emma!<br />
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Part One of the Deathly Hallows releases November 19th.Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-28264013599575719362010-10-09T14:32:00.000-07:002010-10-09T14:32:45.659-07:00Outstanding New ReviewI just received another review for Struck by Conscience. I have to commend the reviewer. She really wrote a detailed and insightful review. She seemed to really 'get' it and get my characters and most especially she got the point of the story. I loved her words about Charisma (Risa for short): <i>She is definitely one of the best written characters I've seen in a while. </i><br />
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Here is the end of the review:<br />
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<i>My favorite thing about this story was the fact that what most teenage girls strive for wasn't what Risa wanted and it made her such a strong character. Torn between life changing moments, confused feelings of love and loss from what she's been so used to, C.K. Green makes Risa feel so real to the reader. The things people might think are important really aren't what defines you as a person. When life takes you to a cross road which road will you take? I think Ms. Green wrote a great heart felt story with little whimsical twists following Risa around. Hopefully, there will be more of Risa and Dahlia to look forward to in the future. It really was an impressive coming-of-age story. It made this reader fall into the story from the moment Risa fell into that pool.</i><br />
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~Forsythia, <a href="http://aurorareviews.blogspot.com/2010/10/struck-by-conscience-by-ck-green.html">Aurora--Long and Short of it Reviews </a>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-90062926724604016912010-10-08T16:01:00.000-07:002010-10-10T12:42:25.365-07:00James Franco--Actor & Writer…Umm Excuse Me?<div class="entry" style="margin-top: 15px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVF2DT8AjRtXxZKGbTDZe061bo_vhFtR7FURbO4Linx6l8K0rhpDMFZ-lIkZsBJwVh4cTloET_HoJCI2yvyAKpWWpgp0AZTfmk00OZEpxJ4WU1XC2GsFKS8QzskXEmKutpuhqtBrOG1H8/s1600/James-Franco-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIogD3QxWgGjePnLbNAIDt0rz6dQ3h8kxVNeuqk4FgG4TgkzmlOA7T4J5CYPjMQnMaj5Ta5nhhfxvFXSQSKYSyxFvpZ0M1zqEl0ai3wMEs-wi6wi9AiHebHN_UlG-Dz1ieObGhIS3Qmf4/s1600/James+Franco+Palo+Alto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIogD3QxWgGjePnLbNAIDt0rz6dQ3h8kxVNeuqk4FgG4TgkzmlOA7T4J5CYPjMQnMaj5Ta5nhhfxvFXSQSKYSyxFvpZ0M1zqEl0ai3wMEs-wi6wi9AiHebHN_UlG-Dz1ieObGhIS3Qmf4/s1600/James+Franco+Palo+Alto.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">So, I opened my <i>Entertainment Weekly</i> magazine this afternoon and perused an article about James Franco and an exclusive excerpt from his upcoming book release. Who knew James Franco could write?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Now I know this isn’t so very exciting because of late there have been quite a number of celebrities out there who think they can write when in fact they <sup>(a)</sup> aren’t actually doing the writing or <sup>(b)</sup> the writing is subpar (and I’m being generous here). As an author myself, it infuriates me when these celebrities use their fame to publish without putting in the effort or the talent. It’s just not right.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YovTmjHiNKtO__9PASA-z7PqXvqKQkNE_mEWXxeGo3vaDowXeVBVT59PLm1Mx-O1jx0pvvzOOqWQ_tqVGLypdpDUfyI6uMqwahDzBUA7a-0en73sC2RDFwyxfFgjItuwPAjcgKyX-5A/s1600/james_franco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YovTmjHiNKtO__9PASA-z7PqXvqKQkNE_mEWXxeGo3vaDowXeVBVT59PLm1Mx-O1jx0pvvzOOqWQ_tqVGLypdpDUfyI6uMqwahDzBUA7a-0en73sC2RDFwyxfFgjItuwPAjcgKyX-5A/s320/james_franco.jpg" width="156" /></a>That’s simply not the case with Franco. This is a project he’s been working on for five years under the tutelage of some noteworthy professors and novelists. Mona Simpson, Amy Hempel, and Michael Cunningham.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The star of the <i>Spiderman</i> trilogy, <i>Tristan + Isolde</i>, the Julia Roberts film <i>Eat, Pray, Love</i> and recently a stint on the soap <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i>General</i></st1:placename><i> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Hospital</st1:placetype></i></st1:place> wasn’t just given his writing contract. He actually earned it. According to the article, Franco is currently attending Yale working on his PhD. Looking into his academic record, I see he started at UCLA in creative writing but dropped out after a year to study acting. Eventually, he went back and finished that degree. He wanted his schoolmates to realize his serious intent. In his final quarter at UCLA, he took 62 units instead of the normal cap of 19. He later attended film school at NYU and studied for his graduate degree at <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Columbia</st1:place></st1:city>. Seeing all his academic achievement, I can finally forgive him for <i>Pineapple Express</i>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-BJhPbpCeQAjj0kJac249p5uUgXiAFID7nxeJ8M1cq9H10MeVpUDQ45lkCayYllpwPGpJBPCT_IpB7sVPeB4jWXCgTunSW6heYAgzBXjDhKFqafZCCtvf209b7MVGIhvtfncpKk0J6xs/s1600/tristan-and-isolde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-BJhPbpCeQAjj0kJac249p5uUgXiAFID7nxeJ8M1cq9H10MeVpUDQ45lkCayYllpwPGpJBPCT_IpB7sVPeB4jWXCgTunSW6heYAgzBXjDhKFqafZCCtvf209b7MVGIhvtfncpKk0J6xs/s320/tristan-and-isolde.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Good for you James Franco. Though I haven’t had the opportunity to read the book, I applaud his hard work and wish the best for the short story collection release. <st1:city w:st="on"><i>Palo Alto</i></st1:city> (incidentally that’s where in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state> Franco was born and grew up) hits stores October 19<sup>th</sup>. </div></div>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-24797653197549579852010-09-05T09:46:00.000-07:002010-09-05T09:46:56.022-07:00Review: Sucks to Be Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/TIPHMzKVjxI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/bOZ0hsLhdJU/s1600/Sucks+to+be+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/TIPHMzKVjxI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/bOZ0hsLhdJU/s320/Sucks+to+be+me.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Sucks To Be Me<br />
by Kimberly Pauley<br />
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Blurb<i>: Mina Hamilton's parents want her dead. (Or undead to be precise.) They're vampires, and like it or not, Mina must decide whether to become a vampire herself. But Mina's more interested in hanging out with best friend Serena and trying to catch the eye of the too-hot-for-high-school Nathan Able than in the vampire training classes she's being forced to take. How's a girl supposed to find the perfect prom date and pass third-year French when her mom and dad are breathing down her neck--literally?</i> <br />
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Review: <br />
In a word I'd have to say that <i>Sucks to Be Me b</i>y Kimberly Pauley was terrific. Absolutely loved it. I've read that the sequel is now out in hardback. I can't wait to 'sink my teeth' into it. Okay I know, bad vampire joke.<br />
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The book is cute without being cutsey. (Cutesy? Is it a word?) If you're into the whole vampire genre you'll enjoy it too because it shows the lighthearted side of being a vampire--and I love to laugh. Reading it reminds me of why I really didn't care for Twilight. Ms. Pauley's writing is sharp, fun, active. a great read! <br />
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This book is a great example of why I love YA fiction. There are some great lines in the book. Here is an example. At the beginning of each chapter a vampire myth is given and the main character's take on the reality of the statement. I found these to all be really great but this one made me laugh until I couldn't catch my breath. <br />
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<i>Myth: a stake through the heart will kill a vampire.<br />
Truth: well duh, it would kill anyone. </i><br />
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I don't know why that hit me as being so funny. It must be the profound simplicity of it. This is just a sample of the humor in this book. <br />
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The one thing I would have to complain about is that the author compares the eyes of a hot guy in the book with Tom Welling's except green. Um, hello Tom's eyes are green! Sorry no disrespect, Ms. Pauley. Loved the book, but I've loved Tom's eyes longer. ;)<br />
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Mrs. Pauley's rendition of vampirism is much more controlled and organized. Vampires don't just rip into their prey willy-nilly and you can't turn someone to the other side at whim. There are rules, procedures, a bureaucracy, etc. She makes them less scary. They aren't as animalistic like they are going to attack you at any moment. For me, it was a good version and perfect for the YA reader. I give it an A.Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-16582548247949339552010-08-24T06:47:00.000-07:002010-08-24T06:48:52.107-07:00Teen Reviews for Struck<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Well, I had a couple teens offer to review my book, </span><i style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Struck by Conscience, </i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">and I've already received a couple back. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span><o:p></o:p></span> <br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC"; font-size: 10pt;">C.K. Green did an amazing job with this book. The storyline is flawless. It was cute, and romantic, without being too sappy, and it had a little humor thrown in there. I loved the characters. They were all very relatable, and they had realistic personalities. This book was great, and I would definitely recommend it. ~ Kate<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC"; font-size: 10pt;">When I first read “Struck by Conscience” I thought it would be just another teen book about a girl trying to decide between two guys she really likes. But this book surprised me by being more than that. While I read it, it was like I was Charisma saying goodbye to my Dahlia and hello to a whole new stage of life. This book made me chuckle, cry, and smile so big. I desperately wanted to be Charisma so I could be with Heath. That is how real he was for me. Cindy creates characters you fall in love with. As with a few of the other books I’ve read from Cindy, she always manages to squeeze in references to her love of classic literature. In this book its <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Wuthering</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Heights</st1:placetype></st1:place> by Emily Bronte. I promise that when you finish reading this book, like me, you’ll want a sequel! ~ Bluann </span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10pt;">**********</div><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Thanks for the great reviews, ladies! If anyone else is interested in reviewing, I have a couple more copies I can send out. Also, if you are interesed in contributing articles to this blog</span><style>
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</style><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> just send me an </span><a href="mailto:ckgreen@cindykgreen.com" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">email</a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">. </span></span><br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-22591228271726306852010-08-07T06:35:00.001-07:002010-08-07T06:35:47.934-07:00Surgery UpdateWell, it's been over four weeks since I had my surgery and I am finally feeling back to my good old, regular self. My recovery has been slower that I had expected. A couple simple complications that brought pain. It kept me from doing a lot of things around my house. I couldn't even drive or sit up for long periods--and forget sitting in front of computer.<br />
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Last week things started to get better and I am feeling pretty close to normal now--whatever that it. I can drive, sit at a desk and I even got in the pool this week. I still get worn out pretty easily and have a little discomfort but other than that I'm good. :)<br />
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Well, school will be starting again soon which will take up a good portion of my time, but I hope to get some writing & promotional things accomplished before then so stay tuned. Have a good day.Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-4328045289240761482010-08-05T11:58:00.000-07:002010-08-05T11:58:25.116-07:00First Review for Struck by ConscienceI'm incredibly excited to share that Struck by Conscience received it's very first review.<br />
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Review: 4 Hearts from <a href="http://theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/struckconsciousgreen.htm" rel="nofollow">The Romance Studio</a><br />
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<div style="background-color: #cccccc;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Tahoma,Arial; font-size: x-small;">I enjoyed this whimsical short story with the endearingly realistic characters. I felt a solid connection with the heroine. Charisma is someone whom most of her school mates would love to trade places with, but popularity doesn't guarantee happiness. Heath is a fantastic hero, how can you help but fall for a guy who saves a drowning young woman? I admired how complex he was; sensitive and explosive, angry and tender. This was a charming escape from my day. I look forward to seeing what else this author has to offer. I think this is a great addition to any YA lover's bookshelf. ~ Theresa Joseph</span></div><div style="background-color: #cccccc;"><br />
</div>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-41682203229907516162010-07-05T17:33:00.001-07:002010-07-05T17:33:17.857-07:00Going in for SurgeryHello Readers,<br />
Well I never did get my newsletter out during the month of June. Hopefully I’ll have a chance in July.<br />
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One of the things that has kept me busy is that I have to go in for surgery. I appreciate the thoughts and prayers that have been coming my way in this respect. I’ll post how it went when I am feeling my chipper self once again. <img alt=";)" class="wp-smiley" src="http://cindykgreen.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif" /><br />
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On a side note, I finished writing my latest book this week. It’s a full novel–Romantic Suspense, Mystery, Romantic Comedy. Yeah, it has it all. I had a goal to finish it before I went in for surgery. Now I can edit and polish while I’m recuperating. More about that later.<br />
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Take care All! I’ll be back soon.Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-11125215015104685882010-05-28T07:45:00.000-07:002010-05-28T08:05:42.877-07:00Great News!I just received word from my publisher at Whimsical Publications that my ebook for Struck by Conscience is now available at Amazon in the Kindle format. Remember even if you do not have a Kindle reader you can download the Kindle software to your computer (FOR FREE) and then you can read Kindle books on your computer. Visit <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Struck-Conscience-Faery-Guardian-ebook/dp/B003NX6ZAK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1275058360&sr=1-1">Amazon </a>.<br />
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<br />
I will be a guest over at <a href="http://mlmya.blogspot.com/">Moonlight, Lace and Mayhem</a> tomorrow (this Saturday) in the YA Room. Hope you can come by visit.Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-37184548446302318242010-04-30T12:01:00.000-07:002010-04-30T12:17:47.357-07:00Struck by Conscience--Released TODAY!!<h3 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" id="sites-page-title-header" style="" align="left"><span id="sites-page-title" dir="ltr"></span> </h3> <div id="sites-canvas-main" class="sites-canvas-main"> <div id="sites-canvas-main-content"> <table xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" class="sites-layout-name-one-column sites-layout-hbox" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="sites-layout-tile sites-tile-name-content-1"><div dir="ltr"><b><span style="color: rgb(106, 168, 79);"><div style="margin: 5px 10px 0pt 0pt; display: inline; float: left;"><a href="http://sites.google.com/site/ckgreenauthor/home/books/struckbyconscience_original.jpg?attredirects=0" imageanchor="1"><img src="http://sites.google.com/site/ckgreenauthor/_/rsrc/1265467068524/home/books/struckbyconscience_original.jpg?height=200&width=128" border="0" height="200" width="128" /></a></div>Struck By Conscience</span></b> (short novella) Book 1 in the Faery Guardian Series<br /><p><i><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:12;" >I, Charisma Mansfield, do solemnly swear that... I never asked to be popular. I never asked to be voted Prom Queen. I definitely never asked to have an invisible pixie perched on my shoulder whispering her opinions into my ear 24/7. But of all the things I never asked for, this is the worst one yet—when brooding but gorgeous Heath Ruvelas (my next door neighbor and the guy I used to be best friends with before jr. high) rescued me from drowning in the school pool. My already bizarre life would never be the same. </span></span></i></p><p><br /></p><p><span><span style="line-height: 17px;font-size:14;" >My head had been in a fog since the near drowning episode. It now hit me how very<br />quiet it was—in my head that is. It was never quiet there. Dahlia constantly lambasted<br />me with her fairy-like speech. Oh dear God! Had she drowned in the pool? I couldn’t<br />feel her anymore. She wasn’t perched on my shoulder like usual. She was gone!<br /><br /> ₪₪₪<br /><br />My mom came to get me a half an hour later. She’d brought me some dry clothes and<br />sported an overanxious expression. “Charisma, oh good Lord, are you okay?”<br /><br />Yes, my mother had named me Charisma. Charisma Elaine Mansfield. Was it any<br />wonder that I’d been included as one of the popular trend-setters at school? It’s like I<br />didn’t even have a choice with a name like that. But really, Charisma? Other than the<br />actress who’d starred on that TV show, Angel, have you ever heard of anyone with this<br />unfortunate designation? Perhaps an exotic dancer?<br /><br />The nurse calmed down my mother and then released me into her care. Ironic, right? I<br />convinced Mom to walk down to the pool with me, having made the excuse that I’d left<br />something behind. It was true. I had lost something: Dahlia. She could be a great<br />nuisance at times, but she’d been with me as far back as I could remember.<br /><br />Dahlia is what my mother called my conscience when I was little. At seven years old, I<br />tried to convince her that Dahlia really existed. She didn’t believe me, and I’d never<br />mentioned her since. Over time, I’ve discovered that she’s more of a pixie than a<br />conscience. I’ve never seen her only felt her and heard her. She’s invisible and not<br />able to show herself to mere mortals.<br /><br />The thing about having a pixie with me 24/7 is that I’ve never been able to verbalize all<br />the things I’m thinking and feeling even when I’m alone because, of course, Dahlia will<br />hear. Even then she always seems to know what I’m thinking and at times her thoughts<br />come out of my mouth as if I had no control. After nearly eighteen years, I wish I could<br />get rid of her. But not like this. Not drowned because of my stupidity.<br /><br />We made it to the gate of the pool, and I cautiously walked beside my mother toward<br />the water, my legs still feeling a bit shaky. It’s not like I wanted to land in the drink<br />again. “Over beside that bench, Mom. That’s where I left my book.”<br /><br />It was a lie. I hadn’t left a book. It was Dahlia. I had to find her. Please, please, I prayed<br />silently. Please let her be okay.<br /><br />“Dahlia,” I whispered close to the water. “Please, don’t be dead. I’d give anything if…”<br /><br />“If what?”<br /><br />For a split second, I felt that odd but familiar sensation near my shoulder. She wasn’t<br />dead!<br /><br />“Dahlia, you’re okay.”<br /><br />“Of course, I am. You didn’t think a little water could take me out, did you?”<br /><br />“No, well, yes, I did. I was worried.”<br /><br />“I told you to stay away from the pool, but you didn’t listen.”<br /><br />“I know. You were right…again.”<br /><br />“Yes, but at least Heath came to your rescue. I should have known that gimlet of a<br />boyfriend of yours would be useless in an emergency situation.”<br /><br />“Dahlia…”<br /><br />“Shh! Here comes your mother.”<br /><br />When we couldn’t find my fictitious book, Mom took me to the car and drove me home.<br />On the ride, I wondered what had happened to Brett. Okay, if the truth be told, it was<br />more than likely Dahlia who had whispered the idea into my ear.<br /><br />I didn’t respond to her because Mom would find it entirely suspect if I started talking to<br />myself. I gave that up in second grade. Still, the thought remained. What had<br />happened to Brett? He hadn’t followed me to the nurse’s office as far as I knew. Did he<br />care that I’d nearly died? I did! I nearly died and I would have if it hadn’t been for Heath.</span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-size:12;">Available Now at <a href="http://www.whimsicalpublications.com/ck_green/Struck_By_Conscience.html" rel="nofollow">Whimsical Publications</a></span></span></b><i><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:12;" >.</span></span></i></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-78353625829378214122010-04-30T09:45:00.000-07:002010-04-30T10:19:24.477-07:00Sorry I've Been MIA<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S9sQzgEK7oI/AAAAAAAAA08/q4GqqE7B6Fc/s1600/pow-mia-flag.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 173px; height: 173px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S9sQzgEK7oI/AAAAAAAAA08/q4GqqE7B6Fc/s320/pow-mia-flag.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465981049711029890" border="0" /></a><!--[if !mso]> <style> v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" spt="75" preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"> </v:formulas> <v:path extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" connecttype="rect"> <o:lock ext="edit" aspectratio="t"> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:104.25pt;"> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:\DOCUME~1\OWNER~1.YOU\LOCALS~1\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_image001.wmz" title="j0432523"> </v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span>Sorry I haven't been here in awhile. Due to some personal issues and a possible surgery, I have not been able to update the blog. After one of our guests wasn't able to attend, I put the YA guest bloggers on hold for awhile but we should get that back on track starting this summer.<br /><br />But come by when you can because I hope to have more posts in the weeks to come.<br /><br />Take care,<br />C.K. GreenCindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-61095129339726548092010-03-22T07:03:00.000-07:002010-03-22T07:09:09.994-07:00Guest Blogger TomorrowDon't forget to stop by tomorrow for guest blogger, award winning author of urban fantasy and medieval historic romantic suspense for both the Young Adult and Adult--Terry Spear. You can visit Terry's website at <a href="http://www.terryspear.com">http://www.terryspear.com</a>.<br /><br />See you Tomorrow!Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-16141302770118720652010-03-13T13:08:00.001-08:002010-03-13T13:12:07.108-08:00Vote for Your Fav Period DramaI added a Poll for your Favorite Period Drama to the blog. Yes, I am a self admitted Period Drama fanatic. Don't believe me? Visit my YouTube channel-JaneJunkie--and check out my fan vids and a glimpse of my favorite man in a cravat. Go ahead and vote. The Poll closes at the end of the month. Hope everyone is having a good weekend.Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-26756937989231456112010-03-03T07:09:00.000-08:002010-03-03T07:24:15.400-08:00Socially UnacceptableWell, as promised, we have a guest Young Adult author with us today. I hope you will welcome Maryann Miller as she talks to us about being 'Socially Unacceptable.' I know we've all probably 'been there done that'. And be sure to check out her book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Friends-Forever-ebook/dp/B00127SQXS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=digital-text&qid=1267629704&sr=8-1"><span style="font-style: italic;">Friends Forever</span></a>.<br /><br /><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:.6in .7in .6in .7in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S458hiRaqCI/AAAAAAAAAzc/JhMpBP7ScPE/s1600-h/Maryann+Miller+Cover+10-09.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 229px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S458hiRaqCI/AAAAAAAAAzc/JhMpBP7ScPE/s320/Maryann+Miller+Cover+10-09.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444425915114891298" border="0" /></a>We all remember those horrible days of middle school and high school when our social standing depended on who we were friends with and what kind of clothes we wore. Other than a change of setting and a change of attire, I’m sure the social posturing started in ancient times when Garthea was kicked out of the clan for inappropriate use of a bear skin and continues unaltered through present time.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">When I was in high school, I was in the Outcast group. You remember that group. It was made up of kids who didn’t belong to the Popular group, the Jocks, or the Nerds.<span style=""> </span>Among the many things that made us socially unacceptable was the fact that we were a bit lacking in the looks department. Not that any of us had faces that would make little kids run away screaming, we were just plain, ordinary, and some of us wore glasses. That alone was a severe stigma in high school in the 60s.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I remember meeting a former classmate a year out of high school, and laughing at his reaction. “You’re not THAT Maryann,” he said. “You can’t be. She was… uh… well… You sure have changed.”</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">We in the Outcasts were also not quite good enough athletically to be on a sport team, and some of us just hid our brain power because we didn’t want to be with the Nerds. In our minds, that group was lower than ours, even though most folks thought otherwise. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">One of the things I liked best about belonging to the Outcasts, was I could pretty much do anything I wanted and it wouldn’t affect my standing. Think about it. I was already on the lowest rung of the ladder. So I just clung to it the best I could and looked forward to the day when I would be out of high school and this silliness of social groupings would end.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I hadn’t realized how this social phenomenon repeats itself until one day when my oldest daughter was lamenting the fact that her best friend had suddenly qualified for the Popular group, while she was still relegated to something closer to Outcast. Overnight it had become socially unacceptable for said friend to associate with my daughter. <span style=""> </span>I was in the middle of my Mommy Speech 112, telling her to buck up, that this, too, shall pass, when I realized it wouldn’t. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">People may grow up, but they don’t really grow up, and it seems we are destined to play these silly little social games until the day we die. The way we play them just becomes more subtle and harder to figure out. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">-------------</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Maryann Miller has won numerous writing awards including being a semi-finalist at the Sundance Institute for her screenplay, <i style="">A Question Of Honor</i>. Her work has appeared in regional and national publications, and the Rosen Publishing Group in <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">New York</st1:place></st1:state> published her non-fiction books for teens, including the award-winning <i style="">Coping with Weapons and Violence In School and On Your Streets</i>. Her young adult novel, <i style="">Friends Forever</i>, which was inspired by her daughter’s experience in school, is available as an e-book from Kindle. You can visit Maryann and see her other books at her Web site at <a href="http://www.maryannwrites.com/">http://www.maryannwrites.com</a>. </p>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-76414338667379182262010-02-06T06:46:00.000-08:002010-02-06T06:54:03.315-08:00Struck by Conscience<a style="" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S22ByAKPGhI/AAAAAAAAAyc/qG9JJeMXdYU/s1600-h/struckbyconscience_original.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 206px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S22ByAKPGhI/AAAAAAAAAyc/qG9JJeMXdYU/s320/struckbyconscience_original.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435143021342431762" border="0" /></a>I'm so pleased to share more about my YA short novella, Stuck by Conscience. It will release with Whimsical Publications sometime this year. I haven't been given a release date but all good things come to those who wait...and pine...and agonize. ;) I just received the cover and I LOVE IT! It fits the story perfectly. What do you think?<br /><br />Here is the blurb:<br /><p><i><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:12;" >I, Charisma Mansfield, do solemnly swear that... I never asked to be popular. I never asked to be voted Prom Queen. I definitely never asked to have an invisible pixie perched on my shoulder whispering her opinions into my ear 24/7. But of all the things I never asked for, this is the worst one yet—when brooding but gorgeous Heath Ruvelas (my next door neighbor and the guy I used to be best friends with before jr. high) rescued me from drowning in the school pool. My already bizarre life would never be the same.<br /></span></span></i></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-23905349532840113192010-01-03T14:06:00.001-08:002010-01-03T14:26:58.356-08:00A New Year and New Goals<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S0EX3EUPtAI/AAAAAAAAAws/jhXiwnRlrSM/s1600-h/Happy-new-year-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S0EX3EUPtAI/AAAAAAAAAws/jhXiwnRlrSM/s320/Happy-new-year-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422641661149688834" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Happy New Year!! At least, I hope it will be a good year. I'd hate to think that nothing but disappointment and tragedy awaited me. (Shakes Head) Don't mind me, I've just been watching way too much news today. Okay, I'm better now.<br /><br />So...a new Year and new Goals. Do any of you make resolutions in January? Yeah, me neither. I am not a resolutions kind of a girl because more than likely I'd break them within the first week. My life is way too chaotic to make year-long resolutions. However, I do make goals for myself.<br /><br />One of the first things I do as a New Year looms on the horizon is to set reading goals for myself. Yes, the world is falling apart all around me and I'm more concerned about how many books I'll read in a year. (See too much news--must wrestle remote control away from my dh.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S0EYYDYXezI/AAAAAAAAAw0/LEUnycRw95E/s1600-h/reading+goals.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 172px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/S0EYYDYXezI/AAAAAAAAAw0/LEUnycRw95E/s200/reading+goals.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422642227834223410" border="0" /></a>Do you set reading goals? It might be a good idea. Maybe twenty-five books in a year. That would be fabulous and totally do-able. My goal is always fifty books by December 31st. And I might add that this year (as crazy as it was) I read 101 books! That's a lifetime record for me.<br /><br />I'd love to hear from you. How many books did you read this past year? Have a goal for this year? What's the magic number?<br /><br />Next time I'll share some of the highlights of my reading year.Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-79302762855246649342009-12-14T14:56:00.000-08:002009-12-14T15:06:13.086-08:00It's A Go!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/SybEn5QkoVI/AAAAAAAAAvg/0EOnYq9qYVE/s1600-h/CKGreen.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/SybEn5QkoVI/AAAAAAAAAvg/0EOnYq9qYVE/s200/CKGreen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415231791623872850" border="0" /></a><br />I know it's been awhile since I posted on this blog. I was so gung-ho over the summer, but then I had to take a step back until things got settled. Well, things are shaping up. I've received a contract for my first YA story. I'll be sharing more of that in time. I plan to line up some YA Authors in the New Year and we will just have a good old time here on the YA Fiction Blog. I hope you all will join me and bring your friends. ;)<br /><br />In the meantime, I wish you all a blessed holiday season. Take care. Until 2010!Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-50895390030176435592009-08-31T06:45:00.000-07:002009-08-31T06:45:00.553-07:00Enthusiasm by Polly Shulman (Review)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/SpVANhRFizI/AAAAAAAAAos/QYw2mqx6tAQ/s1600-h/Ethusiasm+book+image.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 140px; height: 202px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RQEp95EjwAo/SpVANhRFizI/AAAAAAAAAos/QYw2mqx6tAQ/s320/Ethusiasm+book+image.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374272331349068594" border="0" /></a><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Bookman Old Style"; panose-1:2 5 6 4 5 5 5 2 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:647 0 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Bookman Old Style"; panose-1:2 5 6 4 5 5 5 2 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:647 0 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p.plu, li.plu, div.plu {mso-style-name:plu; mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} span.tagline {mso-style-name:tagline;} span.style5 {mso-style-name:style5;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >Enthusiasm by Polly Shulman</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >G. P. Putnam's Sons<br />Romance<br />ISBN: 0399243895<br />208 pages<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >2006<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >Ages 12 and up</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >Enthusiasm is a downright charming book. I don’t know how else to describe it. It is a young adult romance, but any romantic with a sense of humor (from 12 to 92) will enjoy this straightforward and sweet story. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >Julie is 15 and about to start her Sophomore year of high school. It is her friend Ashleigh who is the Enthusiast. When Ashleigh finds her new “thing,” she enters it heart and soul. This has included things from candy making, reptiles, favorite rock bands, the <i style="">Little House</i> books, and now <i style="">Pride and Prejudice</i>. Now Julie’s friend will wear only long skirts and speaks in the archaic language of Georgian England. She even has devised a plan for the two of them to crash the fall dance at the local all boys private school to find their Darcys. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >In the process, they do meet two nice boys – one of which is Julie’s <i style="">Mysterious Stranger</i> who she had been seeing around town all summer. By the end of the night, Julie is swept away by him, and the next morning she finds out that her friend, Ashleigh, has found her Darcy too. The problem is that Julie and Ashleigh have chosen the same guy to play their Darcy, Charles Grandison Parr. So, now Julie is bound to keep her mouth closed as loyalty to Ashleigh. As the story progresses, the girls are thrown into the path of the boys even more as they become involved in a play, which the two guys wrote the songs and lyrics for, at the all boys school. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >This is a book of comedy as well as romance and other issues of family, friendship, and first loves. It was very well written and interesting especially finding all the Jane Austen and other literary references. The author has depicted teen age relationships extremely well. And her poetry is terrific. (Parr is a poet). I found myself really starting to feel everything that the heroine of the story was going through. As Parr would walk into the coffeehouse where Julie was enjoying a beverage, my heartbeat sped up just like the heroine’s. It is a clean, sweet story that I would recommend for pre-teen girls and up. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >See the author’s website at <a href="http://www.pollyshulman.com/">http://www.pollyshulman.com/</a> I read this book a couple years ago and I keep hoping she’ll write another YA novel soon. Maybe if we send her enough fan mail she’ll go ahead and do it. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="plu"><u><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></u></p><p class="plu"><u><span style=";font-family:";" >Praise for Enthusiasm<o:p></o:p></span></u></p> <p class="plu"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="plu"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="plu"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Winsome and witty, … <em><span style=";font-family:";" >Enthusiasm</span></em> has the makings of an instant classic.”<span class="tagline"> —</span><em><span style=";font-family:";" >Time Magazine</span></em><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="plu"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="plu"><span style=";font-family:";" >“<em><span style=";font-family:";" >Enthusiasm</span></em>, like <em><span style=";font-family:";" >Pride and Prejudice</span></em>, bubbles over with romantic misunderstandings and comic confusion.…The literary allusions throughout add a sense of fun.”<br /><span class="tagline">—</span><em><span style=";font-family:";" >The New York Times Book Review</span></em><span class="tagline"> (an Editors’ Choice book)</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="plu"><span class="style5"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></span></p><p class="plu"><span class="style5"><span style=";font-family:";" >*</span></span><span style=";font-family:";" >“Wry, engaging…While familiarity with Austen’s world …will deepen readers’ appreciation for Shulman’s impressive first novel, it is no means a prerequisite to enjoying this involving and often amusing narrative.” <span class="tagline">—</span><em><span style=";font-family:";" >Booklist</span></em><span class="tagline">, starred review</span><br /><br /></span></p><p class="plu"><span style=";font-family:";" >“Clever plotting and quirky, often elegant writing that should please the literary crowd while keeping romance lovers engaged. Several cuts above the usual fare.” <span class="tagline">—</span><em><span style=";font-family:";" >Kirkus</span></em><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="plu"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="plu"><span style=";font-family:";" >“A charming romantic comedy.” <span class="tagline">—</span><em><span style=";font-family:";" >School Library Journal</span></em><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p>Cindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7757875647572891271.post-91552195619819227952009-08-26T06:20:00.000-07:002009-08-26T07:48:31.716-07:00Welcome to Teen FictionHello All and Welcome to Teen Fiction. I'm C.K. Green, author and lover of all teen literature. I'm glad you've chosen to spend some time at our blog. I say 'our blog' because this is not only a place where I will blog about my books and other teen books that I've read, but you too can be a guest blogger. If you've read a YA book that you love and want to share with all the readers, send me an email at <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><a href="mailto:cindy@cindykgreen.com">cindy@cindykgreen.com</a></span>, and I will feature you as a guest blogger. Maybe you've read something that inspired you and you decided to write something up about it. I just might publish that on the blog as well. Don't be surprised if we have a few YA authors make guest appearances too. Make sure to come back often because I plan to have something new posted every week. Maybe you might even want to 'Follow' this blog so you don't forget. See you again soon.<br /><br />~C.K. GreenCindy K. Greenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05744687227710149449noreply@blogger.com0