Cindy M Hogan author

Retirement Quest by John Hauserman, CFP

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:02:00 +0000

Enter to win a $10 Amazon Gift card right here, right now in under one minute.

The book I finished last night will hopefully make me rich one day...or at least I hope I'm thinking more clearly about my future because of it. Requirement Quest made me think about the money I'd like to have at retirement in a different way-a good way, a proactive way.

And guess what? When I was asked to review this book, I thought it would be boring, but it totally wasn't and I understood it all. What is so cool about this book is that it has an interactive planning map and other resources you can use on the web for free. You know how I love free.

Everyone should pick up this book, because everyone plans to retire and everyone wants to retire with enough money to live well. Why not learn how to make the best decisions for your financial future! Go out there and make it the best it can be. Start with this book.
NOW...
Enter to win a $10.00 Amazon gift card.

How to enter- (Get six chances to win in under a minute)
**Please leave one comment telling me which things you did.And leave me your email so I can email you if you win!
1. Mandatory follow this blog +1
2. Like Protected's Amazon page +2
3. Like Watched's Amazon page +1
4. Like my Facebook page+1
5. Like Watched's other Amazon page +1
Don't forget to leave one comment telling me what you did.

Are you planning now to retire rich? What are you doing to accomplish your goal?

Huge Changes

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 07:46:00 +0000

Today was my last day of a long-term sub job I did for a good friend who had a baby. A super cute baby at that. I was both excited and sad.

Excited, because I will have more time to devote to writing, and sad, because I will miss the awesome kids in my classes-about 150 of them, all unique, fun, and sometimes very irritating.

Seventh graders are an interesting breed of kids. Many are lost, wondering how they fit into this big bad world, while others reach out and find their place without much effort.

These kids are a big reason I write YA novels. I don't only want to entertain them, but I also want to show them how powerful they can be if they choose to be. These kids are our future and I don't think they realize the impact they can have on that future now.

One thing's for certain, if these kids are our future, I do not need to fear.

What do you think about the kids today? Is our future bright?

It's a Little Haywire by Elle Strauss

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Do you like it when things get a little HAYWIRE?

You are going to love this book! And it's free for two days only-today and tomorrow (Feb 22-23) here

What's it about?

Owen True is eleven and eleven twelfths and has been "exiled" to the small crazy town of Hayward, WA, aka, Haywire, while his mother is on her honeymoon. All he has to whittle away the time is the company of Gramps, his black lab Daisy, and his Haywire friends, Mason and Mikala Sweet. They don't look so hot this year, in fact, the whole town has gone to pot since the mill shut down.

Owen has his first encounter with a real life homeless man who ends up needing Owen's help in more ways than one. But how does a rich city kid help the small town's suffering citizens?

And what is Owen to make of the fog train and its scary, otherworldy occupants that appears out of thin air on the old tracks behind Gramps' house? Do they have the answer Owen is looking for?

Not convinced yet? I think you're nuts, but read this!

Praise for IT'S A LITTLE HAYWIRE

"Strauss' characters are absolutely precious, especially Mikala. Your heart just breaks for her and her family. And Owen was a funny little toot, with a heart of gold. Just because you are young doesn't mean you can't help a community in need!Such a wonderful little read, that brought a tear to my eye at the end." - Mandy at twimom101 book blog- book reviewer

"IT'S A LITTLE HAYWIRE reminds me of Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. It's that good....I loved the magic in this story. I mean the magic of story, a great story, the kind that pulls you in and makes you care about the characters. Elle Strauss does a wonderful job of pulling everything together at the end in a moving way." - Laura Pauling - book blogger, book reviewer

Elle Strauss

The sterile bio...don't worry, the fun bio is coming...
Elle Strauss writes Young Adult and Middle Grade fiction. She's a married mom of four, and lives in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, famous for beaches and vineyards. She's fond of Lindt's sea salt dark chocolate and hiking in good weather. Her Young Adult rom/com time-travel CLOCKWISE and contemporary/otherworldly Middle Grade IT'S A LITTLE HAYWIRE are now available on Amazon.

Here are the questions we all really want answered and I wasn't afraid to ask them!

Do you wear socks to bed?

Wow, no one has asked me that one before. And the answer is YES. At least for half the night and when my feet go from freezing cold to hot, I slip them off.

What are 5 things most people wouldn't know about you?

1. That I wear socks to bed

2. I'm an only child

3. I'm afraid of heights

4. But I'm not a fearful person, generally speaking

5. I had all my four kids before I turned 30

Why did you write It's a little Haywire and what's it all about?

This book is more personal than anything else I've written. It's inspired by letters my oldest son wrote to my parents when he was ten (it's how I captured Owen True's voice), by my father who likes to break into song, by my childhood memories visiting the small town my grandparents lived in during the summer holidays. And by my concern for the poor and disenfranchised.

Here's a list of her favorites. Can you guess what the questions were?

Here are the answers, can you guess the questions?

Dark Chocolate, Red wine, 70's rock and contemporary folk, lakes, palm trees, Europe, Thai food, bike rides, Pride and Prejudice, Bible

I know, you want more of Elle- go get it!

www.ellestraussbookscom
Twitter: @elle_strauss
Facebook : Elle Strauss - Author
Goodreads: Elle Strauss Goodreads Author
Google+: Elle Strauss
Wattpad: Elle Strauss

What do you think of this book? Are you going to go get your free copy now?

Aren't you Dying to Know?

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 18:18:00 +0000

Lucky you...you get to enter to win a ton of books and bookish things here and learn quirky things about me below.
Go win!

Tagged again...This time new questions. Did you know these things about me?
Thanks Chandra/Elizabeth !

1. Are you a dog or cat person?
We just got a puppy. Boy are they work! We've had a cat for years. So easy! Both are fun to watch, though.

By the way, these are not pictures of my animals, but mine look just like them. Do you know what breeds they are?

2. What is your favorite color?
WHITE. I know, some will argue that isn't even a color...but it rocks, whatever it is.

3. What is your favorite book?
Can't think of an all time favorite, but, aside from "Watched", I'd have to say my 2011 pick is Divergent by Veronica Roth. Love! Love! Love!

4. What do you prefer: pencil or keyboard?
Keyboard for sure. I tried the whole write your story on paper thing and it took forever to edit once I got it in the computer. However, my thoughts are clearer when I use a pencil

5. If you could have powers, what would it be?
Fly, fly, fly

6. Who is your favorite villain? Why?
OOh....How can you love a villain?

7. What drove you to write?
The voices in my head...did I just admit to being a schizo?

8. If you were forced to change your name, what would it be?
Madelyn..and I've have long, luscious hair

9. What is your favorite place?
My house. I love it.

10. What was your favorite year? Why?
2011. The year I published my first book. Wahoo!

11. What is your favorite song?
Sk8er boi by Avril Lavigne. It's so awesome to show up the doubters. Love almost all of Avril Lavigne's songs.

Now I get to tag 11 people and give them 11 questions...

Creative therapy
my personal fairy tale
Rhiannon Morgan
unsettled
kate coursey
Rod tyson blog
Elizabeth creith's scriptorium
Carolin Seidenkranz
The Oracle and the Muse
Jolene Stockman
Here are your questions:
What is your favorite read from 2011?
Why do you write YA?
Are you a swimmer?
When was the last time you went on a hike?
Do you read books electronically? Which device do you have?
Do you work?
Do you have children?
What is your favorite holiday?
What was the best gift you ever gave?
Have you served anyone lately? What did you do?
What high school did you go to?

If you could ask an author any question, what would it be?

Do you Know Me?

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

There's still time to win all kinds of free books and swag. Get to it!
Just Click here. Good Luck!

Look at the side of my blog. Sign up for my newsletter. You'll get all the good news as Protected is released.

So, I was tagged two more times, so here are the answers to those burning questions you've had about me.

Thanks Amber Clites for the tag.

1. Pantser or Planner?
Total pantser. It gets me into some trouble here and there...

2. Favorite book, movie, and TV show?
Alias Rocks

3. Would you rather have free Starbucks for five years or free itunes for life?
Free itunes! Long live audio books.

4. What inspires you more, music or visual (ie: photography, scenery, etc)?
Music. Go Avril!

?
5. Do you pinterest?

No...Sorry, never been there

6. The question for the ages, Edward or Jacob?
Jacob is too hot to pass up.

7. Would you rather be able to talk to animals or to be able to speak and understand any language?

Hmm...right now we are in puppyland and if only I could understand what in the heck he wants and thinks, life would be so much easier.

8. Would you rather be kidnapped by terrorists or abducted by aliens?
At least with Aliens we could work out a love story.

9. What is the genre(s) that you write for?
Young Adult contemporary romantic suspense

10. *Warning stolen question* If money were no object, where would your dream vacation take place?

I said Swiss Alps last time...I'll stick with that.

11. Did you cry in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part two? Was one of the times when Dumbledore asked Severus, "After all this time?" and Severus responded, "Always. " And if not, are you sure you have a soul?
I did not. I am a calloused soul. I'm actually watching this at home, right now. No joke.

Tagged again How fun. Bet you didn't know the answers to these questions about me.
1. What was the greatest live music experience you've ever had?
When I was teenager, I went to see Billy Idol with my fabulous sister, Tracie. Saw Kelly Clarkson a few years ago. Awesome.

2. What was your worst date ever?
Honestly, I don't think I've had a worst date...

3. If money is no object, what would your dream vacation be?
Swiss Alps skiing trip
4. Would you rather live in a crowded city or small town?
Definitely a small town.

5. Would you be willing to murder one innocent person if you knew it would guarantee an end to all world hunger?
Not fair, but still, no way.

6. When did you last cry in front of somebody (who is not your partner)?
When I had to leave a service position that I truly loved.

7. Would you be willing to endure night terrors- every night- for the rest of your life if you were given vast personal wealth to use however you wish in exchange?
Nothing is worth giving up peace of mind.

8. If you could choose the manner of your death- but not the timing- what would you choose?
I would definitely choose to die in my sleep.

9. Would you rather switch back to black and white TV with only five channels, or no internet?
Back to Black and White TV

10. If you could use a voodoo doll to hurt somebody, would you do it?
No. Keep that crap away from me.
11. What if the voodoo doll was only able to annoy them tremendously would you do it?
ditto #10

What Random Act of Kindness have you been a part of lately?

Do a Grump a Favor?

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Did you know that today, February 16th, is
"Do a grump a favor day?"
I think that is so funny. It is a nice way to kick off a fun giveaway hop. I hope you all get lots of cool prizes from hopping around.

I know, I love winning!

While you're at it, go do a grump a favor and see how it makes you feel. I'll wager you will get more out of it than he/she will.

Did anyone do anything great for you on Valentine's Day? Better yet, did you do something amazing for someone else?

So, what can you win here? How about a subway gift card? Sound yummy? That's right! I know how to spread the love.

How to win: (takes 30 secs. tops)
Mandatory- sign up for my newsletter-look to the right of this blog to sign up. Easy.
Optional entry- like my Amazon page here.
It's not a requirement, but I'd love you to follow this blog, too. I love followers!

Leave me one comment about what you did and voila! you're entered.

Have you seen the cover for Protected? Click here to see it.
What do you think?

Protected-Cover Reveal

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:10:00 +0000

So! It's final! The release date for Protected is March 24th!

Wahoo!

In celebration, I thought I'd share the cover with you. Are you ready? Here it is.

What do you think?
Check it out on Goodreads

Valentines Day Gifts Galore

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

GUYS -- here's a Valentine's Day trivia question for you. What's
more romantic than a sizzling love story?

NOTHING!!

That's right. If you're in search of the perfect Valentine's Day gift, look no further,
because I'm about to point you in the direction of some dreamy
books. Whether you gift her a collection of e-books or wrap one
special paperback up in pretty paper with a single red rose on top,
you're bound to score BIG POINTS on Valentine's Day with these
novels.

WATCHED by Cindy M.Hogan Only .99 cents for your sweetheart on all e-readers.
BOUND by C. K. Bryant

CLOCKWISE by ElleStrauss

CROSS MY HEART byKatie Klein

DESTINED by Jessie Harrell
EXILEDby RaShelle Workman

GLIMPSE by StaceyWallace Benefiel

HOW TO DATE AN ALIEN by Magan Vernon
THE SECRET OF SPRUCE KNOLL by Heather McCorkle

TANGLED TIDES byKaren Amanda Hooper

THE VEIL by Cory Putnam Oakes

and...

IN HIS EYES, an anthology from The Indelibles,
featuring love stories from the swoon-worthy guys from our novels
arriving on V-Day!

On the Bright Side by S.R. Johannes

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

I'm giving a huge shout out to my fellow Indelibles' author S.R. Johannes.

She is releasing her middle grade novel

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE today!

Cute cover! I want to be that girl!

Here's the blurb:

As if the
devil's food cake at her wake and the white fat pants she's stuck wearing
for eternity weren't bad enough, fourteen year-old Gabby is quick to
discover that Cirrus, the main rung of Heaven, is a far cry from the Pearly
Gates. Here, SkyFones and InnerNets are all the rage. At her first Bright
ceremony, G.O.D., the automated assignment system, spits out Angela Black,
Gabby's arch nemesis and longtime fencing rival. As a Bright, Gabby has to
protect Angela, her assigned mortal, in order to move up through the
training levels of heaven.

Back on earth,
Angela starts hitting on Michael, Gabby's crush and should-have-been
boyfriend. Gabby's pranks to quell the love are harmless at first until the
school dance sabotage gets completely out of control. Then, Celestial Sky
Agent, Lawrence, who happens to have anger management issues of his own,
steps into reveal that Angela has big problems, and what she really needs is
Gabby's help.

Determined to right her wrong
and ease her mother's grief, Gabby steals an ancient artifact that allows
her to return to earth for just one day. But if Gabby's not careful, her
well-meaning mission just might shift the very foundation of Heaven, Earth,
and every place in between, causing the danger of the dark side to roam
free.

Available for only $0.99 for the first month as an ebook on Amazon Kindle and
Barnes&Noble Nook.
Don't miss it-Get it today!

paperback (available in Feb)

Book Trailer:

http://faeriality.blogspot.com/2010/01/on-bright-side-trailer.html

Looks awesome, huh? Don't hesitate-go get it.

Do you still enjoy Middle Grade books? Why?

It's my birthday!

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:56:00 +0000

It's my birthday!

You know, I have a friend who about had a complete melt-down when she turned 25. She couldn't believe she was a quarter of a century old. I thought she was crazy! I have lost contact with this girl and wonder what she is thinking now that she is over 40....
Me? I love birthdays. Bring 'em on. They just keep getting better.
Do you love birthdays like I do, or do you see them as one step closer to the grave?

Help me celebrate by entering to win a
$10 Amazon Gift Card to buy whatever YA book you'd like.

Yahoo!
Easy entry. It will take you less than one minute to do all 4 entries. 1 mandatory and 3 bonus(lucky you).

1.* Mandatory* Sign up to get a fun newsletter about my books, including new releases. Simply type your email address into the newsletter box on the top-right hand side of the blog. +1 (Find out where my launch of Protected will be.)

2. Like my Watched Facebook page here +1 extra
3. Like my Watched Amazon page here +1 extra
4. Like my other Watched page here +1

It's not mandatory for you to follow this blog, but I'd love to get to know you.

*Just leave me one comment stating which entries you did and don't forget to tell me what you think of birthdays...
Now, go enter to win tons of other YA books. (You could win over 230 books-good luck!

Family By Design by Heather Justesen - A Review

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:41:00 +0000

What I'm reading now Family By Design

As you know, I am a lover of YA and suspense novels. Occasionally, I'll throw in some adult fiction/non-fiction, but I don't stray very often from those genres. So, when I picked up Family By Design by Heather Justesen, a women's fiction novel, I wondered if I'd be able to get through it. I did and I really liked it. Surprise, Surprise. It goes to show you that trying new things can be great.

I didn't realize a book could be a true page-turner without the threat of murder or some kind of violence. This is a fun, quick entertaining read. While I thought some of the things Rena decided to do were just crazy and Tucker seemed a bit like a bully, this story worked. I can't imagine being thrown into a relationship like this. My only question was, where was her family when she needed help after she got married and Tucker was gone?

Do you like women's fiction? What are your favorite titles?

Go out and get Family By Design and see if it becomes one of your favorites

Cover Blurb

Before he could think better of it, he blurted out, “I understand your concerns. I’m going to speak to my commander about getting an early discharge. My girlfriend, Rena, and I have talked about getting married. There just hasn’t been any rush.”

As soon as the words were out of his mouth, he wondered what he was thinking. Yes, they had discussed marriage, but not to each other! He and Rena had never even dated.

Tucker’s on his way to the biggest challenge of his life. Rena already has it all—except a family of her own. But neither one expected their friendship would take such a dramatic turn.

When Tucker becomes the guardian of his newly orphaned niece and nephew, he knows he can’t handle them alone, not when he might be shipped out with the Marines at any moment. Desperate, he turns to Rena for a major favor. His marriage proposal would give her everything she wants, but can she learn to live without the romance she’s always dreamed of?

As time, prayer, and a life-changing kiss work a little magic in her heart, Rena wonders if someone up there has a plan for her that’s better than anything she could’ve come up with on her own. And though it seems crazy at first, this could become her chance for a marriage that will last for eternity.

Also, as a special promotion for anyone who buys a book before January 31, you can get a free ebook for her companion novella, “Shear Luck.” Once you buy a copy of her book go here (link) to get your free copy.http://www.heatherjustesen.com/shear-luck

As if that weren’t enough, Heather’s holding a host of giveaways on her blog throughout the next few weeks, see the rules at the bottom of this post to enter. (and the rafflecopter code I'll send you this weekend will have all of the prizes, etc embedded, so it'll be easy.)

Here’s the blurb for Shear Luck, post it if you feel like it. =)

Chelsea Robison has never forgotten the older boy next door whom she crushed on as a teen, so when she runs into him at the restaurant he’s preparing to open, it’s a delightful shock. And learning he’s available again is more than a little tantalizing.

Vaughn Krenshaw had never seen his neighbor as more than a nice kid—but Chelsea had definitely grown up in the decade since they saw each other last. He’s attracted to the feisty red head, but still struggles over his wife’s death the previous year. And then there’s his five-year-old daughter, Molly, who really liked Chelsea—until she realized the woman was dating her dad.

As Chelsea starts to wonder if their love for each other will be enough to make things work, a specter from Vaughn’s past rises, making her question whether she really knew him at all.

Check out the previous blogs in the tour by clicking on Julie Bellon's name and tomorrow, go check out what Talley has to say about it.

Tuesday, Jan. 24 Julie Bellon

Thursday, Jan. 26 Rebecca Talley

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dreaming of Books?

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:02:00 +0000

Want to win a $10 Amazon gift card to buy your favorite book?

When I get into a book, I truly dream about it.

Right now I'm reading Intrinsical by Lani Woodland and Beautiful Demons by Sarra Cannon. I dreamed I was in a school with hot guys and and I turned into a ghost who flew around looking for a necklace. If you've ever read either of these books, you would know this dream took elements from both books and mixed them up horribly. I am attached to both of these books and can't wait to finish them. Someone give me more hours in my day.

One book that gave me crazy nightmares was Hunger Games. I had a love/hate relationship with that book. It was so real, so possible, that it haunted me. I would hate for anything like that to happen to my cute girls. The sad thing is, it is in the realm of possibilities. Creepy.

Enter for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card? It's easy!
Takes less than 1 minute to get five entries.

1.Follow this blog -mandatory
2. Like my Watched Facebook page here +1 extra
3. Like my Watched Amazon page here +1 extra
4. Like my other Watched page here +1
5. Sign up to get a fun newsletter about my books, including new releases. Simply type your email address into the newsletter box on the top-right hand side of the blog. +1 (Find out where my launch of Protected will be.)
*Just leave me one comment stating which entries you did.

Now go win tons of other stuff at these blogs. Good luck.
What book do you plan to buy with your $10?

Do books haunt your dreams?

Get to know the Indelibles and win a Kindle Fire!

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0000

Introducing the Indelibles - Wahoo!

We're on Fire!

Welcome to The Indelibles Blog Hop! You have the chance to win a KINDLE FIRE by stopping by each member's blog. Each blog is also giving away an eBook! Yahoo!

By following the link at the bottom of this post, you can proceed to the next author (and check out the awesome, individual giveaways we are doing along the way!). If you are entering to win the KINDLE FIRE, don’t forget to make a note of the keyword at the end of every blog post - the words spell out a phrase you will need to enter the contest on the last stop.

Who are we? Marketing guru Shelli Johannes Wells has teamed up with twenty-four other indie and small press authors to bring you the Indelibles.

“We are indie authors who write middle grade and young adult fiction.

We are dedicated to leaving a permanent mark on the world with our stories and words.

We are The Indelibles.”

Each week, we’ll explore fun, fabulous, and fierce topics for today’s teens, drawing on pop culture and themes from the books we write. Check out our official launch Monday, January 9th for fun giveaways at http://indeliblewriters.blogspot.com/. We’ll also be having a “blogger” chat on January 11th and a writer/author chat on the 18th to answer questions about self and indie pubbing. See our blog for details.

And now with no further ado, I will introduce myself:

Cindy Hogan

In addition to being a YA author, during the school year, I am one of those rocking substitute teachers you love and during the summer, I teach kids and the occasional adult how to swim. I love both!

I am also a gardening, canning, cooking, and baking fanatic. I just made the most awesome applesauce. There's nothing like it anywhere.

I rise with the sun no matter when I go to sleep. It's a curse, really.

I can do about 20 things at once and if I really concentrate, maybe 21. :)

Most of my time is spent with fabulous teenagers and I love to write about their unpredictable nature.

I live in Salt Lake City, Utah with my husband and two incredible teenage girls.

You can follow me in several ways

Facebook

Twitter

Sign up for my Newsletter on the top, right hand side of this blog.

If you click through to “like” my Facebook author page, and you sign up for my newsletter, then leave your name in the comments, I’ll enter you in a drawing to win an eBook of Watched.

Change.

She longs for it

A Murder.

She'll never be the same.

It takes more than a school trip to Washington, DC to change Christy’s life.

It takes murder.

A witness to the brutal slaying of a senator’s aide, Christy finds herself watched not only by the killers and the FBI, but also by two hot guys.

She discovers that if she can’t help the FBI, who want to protect her, it will cost her and her new friends their lives.

And guess what? I just saw the proofs of the cover for the sequel, Protected, and they look incredible! It comes out in March. For now, get just pick up Watched (only .99 cents during this giveaway) and you'll have one hot, warm winter read.

Buy it on Amazon

Buy it at Barnes and Noble

Buy it on Smashwords

If you love print books, you can also buy print at those sites (except Smashwords).

The keyword for this stop on the hop is: on

Continue the hop and visit the next Indelibles author, Ali Cross HERE.

Don't forget to enter to win Watched by

Liking Watched on Facebook and signing up for my newsletter (top-right hand corner of this blog), then leaving a comment here with your name.

Good luck and go claim that Kindle Fire!

Amanda Hocking Inspires

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

One more day to enter the huge giveaway, here.

When I first go my Nook, I discovered Amanda Hocking's book, Switched on Barnes and Nobles Steals and Deals (Re-released today) At the time, I wouldn't dream of giving good money out for an eBook and decided I could handle the .99 cents or it might have been free...Switched cost and I downloaded it. (My husband forced the Nook on me at Christmas and I wasn't sold on how awesome it could be yet. I love it, by the way-Go Nook!)

I didn't know she was an indie author and I didn't even know the term indie at the time. I loved the book and quickly finished the series. I looked her up and discovered what an amazing thing she'd pulled off with the success of her books-on her own!

Not long after that, I had to make a decision about my own publishing future. She inspired me to take the leap into the unknown and instead of signing with an agent or publishing house, I decided to indie publish my suspense novel, Watched
Thanks Amanda!

And while some, jealous silly people, called her a traitor for signing with a big publishing house - it made me feel even better about her and the possibility of huge success for all indie authors.

I went one step further than she did by pushing the print copy of Watched, too. I really wanted to see my books on bookstore shelves. What can I say? I love knowing thousands of my books are on people's shelves at home.

Hooray for Pioneers like Amanda! I wish you continued success!
Click on her name to find out more about her.

My friend, Susan, is helping with the launch. Go see what she has to say, here.

Who has inspired you?

Transcendent by Wendy Swore - an Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 01:05:00 +0000

Transcendent: Tales of the Paranormal

Don't forget to enter all the giveaways from yesterday, here. (You have until Jan. 3rd.) and.....

There is a giveaway of Transcendent at the bottom of this blog. Good luck!

This is an awesome anthology of stories by 7 different awesome authors, three of which I know personally- Wendy Swore, Lani Woodland and Melanie Marks. You will love this book and at only .99 cents, you'll love it even more.

Today I am focusing on just one, Wendy, our farmer-girl.

The fun interview:

Me: To write such an interesting book, you must be an interesting person. What are some fun facts about you?

Wendy: I'm a third degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. I still sometimes teach afterschool classes. I also run a farm and can pick 42 ears of corn a minute. (Thus the Goddess of the Corn title to my blog)

Me: I'll have to bone up on my corn picking skills and challenge you to a contest next summer. Give us some more.

Wendy: I speak Spanish (I taught my husband to say I love you & kiss me--gotta learn the important stuff first.) When I was 18, I lived in Spain and visited England, Poland & Sweden (I used my life savings to pay for that semester abroad.) My dad was a crop duster so we followed his work, moving from Sacramento CA, to Walla Walla WA, to Logan UT, to Portland Or, to Pocatello ID.

Me:Such a cool experience! I'm sure every penny you spent was going abroad was worth it.

Tell me about your rocking book.

Wendy: It's a YA paranormal anthology with 8 stories from 7 different authors. It's getting great reviews from awesome authors like Ali Cross, Tristi Pinkston, Elana Johnson, Karen Hoover, and more! They love it, and I'm thrilled! I have 2 stories in the book: Strike, and Spectre. Strike is about a girl who witnesses a boy getting struck by lightning--an event that blasts his soul right out of his body and into something else.... In Spectre, two girls are thrilled to find the perfect decorations for their homecoming party, but when darkness falls, the décor comes to life.

Me: They sound amazing! I have Transcendent loaded on my Nook and can't wait to read it.

I know there are some giveaways out there celebrating the launch. What are they?

Wendy: There are 2 awesome giveaways with loads of SWAG to celebrate the release. One is on my blog, http://wendyswore.blogspot.com (Hurry! it ends on January 3rd) and the other is sponsored by the publisher and includes copies of Watched!
http://afantasyfiction.blogspot.com/2011/12/transcendent-giveaway.html it ends January 15th.

Me: I love the sound of that! Is it only for teens and where can everyone get their hands on it?

Wendy: It's a totally clean read so you can feel safe giving it to all your friends and family. You can find it here:

· Paperback on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0615572324)

· eBook on Kindle: Purchase today for $0.99!http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006JV1NM8

eBook on Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/transcendent-lani-woodland/1108015082?ean=2940013849686&itm=1&usri=transcendent%2c+tales+of+the+paranormal

· Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13096259-transcendent

· Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Transcendent-Tales-of-the-Paranormal/255603224494043

· Book Club Discussion: http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/736565-january-transcendent-paranormal-anthology

Me: Go out and get it everyone! Thank you so much for being a guest on my blog.

Wendy: Thanks for having me, Cindy! How about we give away an eCopy of Transcendent on your blog?

Me: I'd love to. Okay everyone. Make sure you're a follower and leave me a comment that you follow and 1 thing you learned about Transcendent or Wendy and I'll pick a winner on the 4th. Happy New Year everyone!

As an added bonus...here are 5 random fun things (not about Wendy....hee hee hee)

1. Patricia Briggs Mercy series novels (my favorites!)

2. Sushi (Yum!)

3. Naps (what are those again?)

4. November 1st, my favorite day of the year (the day I'm done farming).

5. Uninterrupted time in the bath. (*dreams of the day when that'll happen*)

Did you like this interview? It sure was fun to do. Did you enter to win Transcendent. Good luck and make sure you enter the other awesome giveaways from Yesterday, here. Like 200 ways to win.

Happy New Year! Let's Celebrate!

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 04:45:00 +0000

Awesome new giveaway today through Jan. 3rd.

Giveaways Galore!
Happy New Year!!

Are you a writer or want to become one? Come to an awesome workshop Jan. 21st in Orem, Utah from 9-2:30. You won't want to miss this. Click here to join the fun.

What do you need to have a chance to win a $10 Barnes and Noble gift card?

Easy Entry- Do them all in under 1 minute.

1. Follow this blog -mandatory
2. Like my Watched Facebook page here +1 extra
3. Like my Watched Amazon page here +2 extra
4. Follow my Watched blog extra +1

**Leave me a comment here with what entries you did and your email so I can notify you if you win.

You only have until the 3rd. good luck!

Are you coming to the iWriteNetwork Workshop?

Are you going to watch me on BlogTalkRadio on Sat?

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi - A Review

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

What I'm reading now - Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
Go enter a huge book giveaway here.

This book echoed of the Ugly series to me. I loved the Ugly series.

Aria lives in Reverie where the governement protects the people and provides their every need at the cost of their freedom. The citizens use an eyescreen to escape reality and live in a virtual world which takes over their lives.They do not experience life like we do.

Of course many in the pods want to experience what they aren't allowed to and Aria sneaks out with a girl friend and two boys, including the son of a political leader, to explore the old ways.Something snaps in the boys and they try to hurt her. In the struggle, a fire breaks out and everyone's lives are in danger. Not only must she escape the boys, but also the fire. She is knocked out and someone saves her.

The son of the powerful man in politics is the one that freaked out and tried to hurt Aria and to protect him, the father expels her from the safety of the pods into the death shop.Now she must become one of them, the outsiders, that she has feared her whole life. She must learn to survive. Luckily, a cute guy is there to help her on her journey.

Unfortunately, she ends up having sex with the boy and it makes it seem like it is normal and natural with no consequences whatsoever. She's a teen for heaven's sake-there are always consequences.

So, thumbs down for teens and because the sex is not graphic, thumbs up for adults.

I like the world Rossi has created and look forward to the sequel.

Free Books! Wahoo!

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:05:00 +0000

Come join the fun!
I hope you win all kinds of books today!
You can pick any book you want with a
$10 Barnes and Noble gift card.
I'd pick Divergent by Veronica Roth if you don't own it yet. It's my favorite book of 2011, besides my own, of course.(Watched. ebook only .99 cents right now! wow!)
Easy Entry- Do them all in under 1 minute.

1. Follow this blog -mandatory
2. Like my Watched Facebook page here +2 extra
3. Like my Watched Amazon page here +2 extra
4. Follow my Watched blog extra +1
5. Join iWriteNetwork +1 extra- an awesome site for authors or would-be-authors
**Leave me a comment here with what entries you did and your email so I can notify you if you win.
This giveaway ends on the 31st, so hurry.

Good luck! Now go enter all the other giveaways

Incarnate by Jodi Meadows - A Review

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

What I'm reading now Incarnate
This will be released January 31st, 2012

Cool Cover, right?

This is a story about a girl, Ana, who is somehow born outside the million souls that have always been reborn. Her mother calls her a nosoul while others call her a new soul. When she is born one soul that had been a part of the million never returns and it starts a sort of panic as to whether or not other oldsouls will also never return, allowing more newsouls to appear.

The book starts with, "I wasn't reborn." Catchy.
Ana is shunned not only but society, but also by her own mother and her father disappears after her birth. Her mother is hostile and unloving to the end.

After coming of age, she leaves her home and stumbles upon a boy who is an oldsoul and he tries to make her life better. There are some interesting twist and turns with acid spewing dragons and other creatures.

I had a hard time with this book, not because it wasn't written well, it was. I just didn't like the story. I had to force myself to read it. It just isn't my thing.

Besides being well-written, this is totally unique. I've never seen anything like it. If you like science fiction/fantasy YA and something totally new, this is for you.

Here's the blurb:

NEWSOUL
Ana is new. For thousands of years in Range, a million souls have been reincarnated over and over, keeping their memories and experiences from previous lifetimes. When Ana was born, another soul vanished, and no one knows why.

NOSOUL
Even Ana’s own mother thinks she’s a nosoul, an omen of worse things to come, and has kept her away from society. To escape her seclusion and learn whether she’ll be reincarnated, Ana travels to the city of Heart, but its citizens are suspicious and afraid of what her presence means. When dragons and sylph attack the city, is Ana to blame?

HEART
Sam believes Ana’s new soul is good and worthwhile. When he stands up for her, their relationship blooms. But can he love someone who may live only once, and will Ana’s enemies—human and creature alike—let them be together? Ana needs to uncover the mistake that gave her someone else’s life, but will her quest threaten the peace of Heart and destroy the promise of reincarnation for all?

Jodi Meadows expertly weaves soul-deep romance, fantasy, and danger into an extraordinary tale of new life.

Get to know Jodi better and buy Incarnate here.

Garlicky Parmesan Pasta and Steak

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

The Eats

Wish I had a pic.

This is a fantastic, quick meal for any night. I like to serve fresh green beans and broccoli on the same plate to round off the meal. Simply delicious.

First- Cook 1 lb. spaghetti as per instructions on package. Keep 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain.

Heat oven to 400 degrees
Melt 2 Tbl butter in heavy, oven-proof pan over medium heat
Stir in 1 cup grated bread crumbs. Cook until lightly browned..
Put into a bowl. Add 1/2 C. grated Parmesan and pepper to taste.

Second

Sprinkle 2 (1 inch) strip steaks (or your favorite cut) with pepper
Heat 3 Tbl oil in oven-proof skillet. (Medium heat)
Stir in 3 minced cloves of garlic and 3 thinly sliced green onions. Cook 1 minute.
Toss into bread crumb mixture.

Third

Raise heat to high and sear steaks in that same skillet for about 3 minutes on each side.
Sprinkle each steak with 2 Tbl of the crumb mixture and put into the oven for 5 more minutes. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Pour drained spaghetti into the bread crumb mixture and toss. If it seems too dry, add some of the pasta water.

Enjoy.

Hallowed by Cynthia Hand - A Review

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:03:00 +0000

Go learn about some awesome new authors here. You could win their books.

What I'm reading now Hallowed

Release date January 17th, 2012. Preorder yours today.

The back blurb:

For months Clara Gardner trained to face the fire from her visions, but she wasn’t prepared for the choice she had to make that day. And in the aftermath, she discovered that nothing about being part angel is as straightforward as she thought.

Now, torn between her love for Tucker and her complicated feelings about the roles she and Christian seem destined to play in a world that is both dangerous and beautiful, Clara struggles with a shocking revelation: Someone she loves will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertain, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning.
In this compelling sequel to Unearthly, Cynthia Hand captures the joy of first love, the anguish of loss, and the confusion of becoming who you are.

What did I think?

I liked this. Not as much as Unearthly, (I love, love, loved Unearthly-I listened to it) but I liked it, nonetheless. I read an eArc of this book. If you're wondering what that is, it is a book the publisher gives out to reviewers to review the book. I read it on my Nook-which I love. It's the best. See my review of Unearthly, here.

The story starts with a dream that Clara knows is a type of premonition. An overwhelming sense of sadness accompanies the dream. She sets out to uncover its meaning, and one by one, the clues given expand and become her reality.

I like that Christian comes back into her life in a more meaningful way. I choose him over Tucker. While there is tension between the two, I wish it had been stronger...or maybe different. Maybe I wanted Christian to really fight for her.

I enjoyed the increased tension that accompanied the growing evilness of the Black Wing and the hint at his soft core.

The angel club was a fun addition to the story as well as the twists and turns with her dad and brother. However, I loved her brother in Unearthly and totally dislike him now. What the heck?

I am anxious to find out what will happen in the next book. There are so many possibilites and I hate to have to wait.

College here we come?

You don't want to miss this sequel. It is beautifully written and I love Cynthia Hand's style-smooth and inviitng.

Spicy Black Beans

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

The eats
There's still time to enter the awesome gift card giveaways here.

Amazing Spicy Black Beans

Put the following ingredients into a large sauce pan:
2 Tbl. olive oil
1 C onion
1 C bell pepper
1 Tbl garlic
1 1/4 tsp. cumin
1 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp salt
Cook until tender-about four minutes

Stir in 3 C. cooked black beans and cook 1 minute.
Add 1 c. chicken broth and cook on low to medium low for 15 minutes
Add 1/4 tsp. hot pepper sauce.

Pour over 2 c. cooked rice.

Yum!

Over 100 Gift Cards to Win-Easy Entry

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:05:00 +0000

It's finally here.
The giveaway of all giveaways. Everyone on this hop is giving away Gift Cards. Here you can win a
$10 gift card to Amazon!
Merry Christmas!

Easy Entry- Do them all in under 2 minutes.

1. Follow this blog -mandatory
2. Like my Watched Facebook page here +2 extra
3. Like my Watched Amazon page here +2 extra
4. Follow my Watched blog extra +1
**Leave me a comment here with what entries you did and your email so I can notify you if you won.

Good luck! Now go enter all the others

Everneath by Brodi Ashton - A Review

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

What I'm reading now Everneath
Amazing cover, right?
.
Here's the blurb from Amazon:

Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath. Now she’s returned—to her old life, her family, her boyfriend—before she’s banished back to the underworld . . . this time forever. She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can’t find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.

Nikki longs to spend these precious months forgetting the Everneath and trying to reconnect with her boyfriend, Jack, the person most devastated by her disappearance—and the one person she loves more than anything. But there’s just one problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who enticed her to the Everneath in the first place, has followed Nikki home. Cole wants to take over the throne in the underworld and is convinced Nikki is the key to making it happen. And he’ll do whatever it takes to bring her back, this time as his queen.

As Nikki’s time on the Surface draws to a close and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole’s queen.

Everneath is a captivating story of love, loss, and immortality from debut author Brodi Ashton.

What did I thinK?

Brodi Ashton has produced an original, interesting story. This was not a book I devoured and couldn't put down from the moment I picked it up. It was slow and steady read-one to pick up before bed and enjoy. I love the twist on the mythology of the underworld. This story brought me where I didn't know I'd ever go-a world that is foreign and scary. It's fun to discover a new world.

One thing I didn't like was Nikki, the main character. She came into the story weak, which is fine, but I didn't feel she went anywhere. I thought Jack moved, however. What a doll. It was hard for me to buy the love story between them. I needed more and what did come, came too late for me to really care.

Brodi is a very talented author and anyone who enjoys paranormal books with a touch of romance, will love this book.

I can't wait for the sequel. Everneath has a nail-biter ending.

Don't own it? Now's your chance. There's a killer deal on Amazon. Buy Everneath.

Go visit Brodi on Goodreads

Creamy White Chili

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy M Hogan) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

The Eats

Go win as many books as you can in the Book Lover's Holiday Giveaway! Enter here.

This chili is a definite crowd pleaser-so yummy! By the way, we were supposed to get those crazy high winds today (Sunday) again...so, we'll see if we have power tonight. Boo! Wish us luck-yesterday. We are having this for dinner. I can't wait.

Creamy White Chili

1 lb. cooked chicken in 1/2 inch cubes
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 Tb. Vegetable oil
2 cans (15-1/2 OZ) great northern beans, rinsed and drained.
1 can (14-1/2 OZ) chicken broth
2 cans (4 oz each) chopped green chilies
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp pepper
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 C. (8 OZ) sour cream
1/2 C. heavy whipping cream

In a large saucepan, saute chicken, onion, and garlic powder in oil until chicken is no longer pink. Add the beans, broth, chilies and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in sour cream and cream. Serve immediately.
7 servings

We have crusty garlic bread and fresh spinach on the side. Delicious!

Happy Eating.