Miranda Atchley's Blog, page 43

Favorite Word Friday #16 "Adventure"

Adventure
noun  ad·ven·ture  \əd-ˈven-chər\
:an exciting or dangerous experience:danger or excitement
Adventure is a fun word. When we hear it, we often think of great quests that take us to new places. I think of grand places that I'd like to see, things I want to do. Also, Adventure Time, which is fun! Haha. ;) What would life be without the word adventure?
Thank you for spending some time with me today. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. I'll see you Monday with an update on A Castle in the Sky.

-Miranda Atchley
(Definition taken from the Merriam Webster online dictionary)

Beta Readers

Editing is in full swing. I've gotten a lot done lately. My mom has read the book over and pointed out things that looked as though they needed to be fixed. My dad will read it soon and so will my sister-in-law. I know a lot of people think you must hire a professional editor and yes, I think that is a good idea, but being an independent author, my budget doesn't really allow that right now. So, I call on friends and family to look the book over and give their opinions. After all, they're readers; they know how a book should read and notice when things don't look quite right.
I'm pretty thankful for my beta readers; not every person's parents and sisters would be willing to look over a book for them. And if they asked me to, I'd do the same for them in a heartbeat.
Hope you're all having a great week. Tomorrow I'll be brining you two posts; Favorite Word Friday and the second discussion post for the Little Women read along. See you then!

-Miranda Atchley

Book of the Week #33 "The Five People You Meet in Heaven"

The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
On his 80th birthday, Eddie goes to his job at the carnival just the same as every other day. Yet when a young girl is in danger of being crushed by a falling piece from a ride, Eddie rushes to save her and everything goes blank. From then on, Eddie meets five different people in their own personal paradises. These five people have all been affected by Eddie's life in some way and vice versa. Some are expected, and some are not. He relives memories from his own life and sees the memories these people have of him. Some are light and fun and some are heart wrenching.
This was the first Mitch Albom novel I read. Given the subject matter, I was not expecting to read it as quickly as I did, but it's just one of those reads that you can't put down. It's simply the way Albom writes; you become captivated and can't stop reading. The same thing happened when I read For One More Day .
This is a book that I sincerely cried while reading. I mean, number five..... Oh my goodness. It's a pretty heavy topic. I love reading over the different parts of Eddie's life. I love books like this that really tell the story of someone's life. And Eddie did meet a lot of interesting characters, like the blue man. I think he's one of my favorites.
I know people like to pick at Albom's novels because they seem like typical chick-lit, cry-fest-reads, but I think they're more poignant than that. Granted they aren't my absolute favorite novels ever, but I do enjoy them and want to read more of them.
And I think it goes without saying, but I don't think this novel was written as anything to be taken too seriously or something theological. Albom isn't claiming that this is what happens when we die; it's just a novel.
All in all, The Five People You Meet in Heaven is a lovely novel that will touch your heart.

I give this book a 4 out of 5.

Top Ten Tuesday: Book and Music Combos

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly series hosted by The Broke and The Bookish.
So today's Top Ten Tuesday is about book and music combos. Either songs you think suit certain books, or a song you think should be made into a book. I think this is a really interesting topic. There are a lot of songs that remind me of certain books.
I know this list seems to contain quite a bit of one certain band, Eisley, as well as their side projects. I really love Eisley and their music and many of their lyrics remind me of novels, so they just really fit this topic.
I hope you enjoy this list!
10: One Headlight turned into a book.I think this song by The Wallflowers about a guy who has lost his girlfriend would make an interesting book.Fitting lyrics from the song:"But somewhere here in between these city walls of dying dreams I think her death it must be killing me."
9: Brick By BoringBrick set to CinderellaThe lyrics to this song are full of fairytale references. The video seems to suggest Alice In Wonderland, but the lyrics make me think of Cinderella. It is, of course, a deeper song being that it is from Paramore, and is not the twinkling type of song one would normally associate with the classic Cinderella, but would fit a darker version, perhaps Cinder?Fitting lyrics from this song:"Her prince finally came to save her and the rest you can figure out. But it was a trick and the clock struck twelve so make sure to build her home brick by boring brick, or the wolf's gonna blow it down."
8: Man of the Hour set to Big FishEddie Vedder of Pearl Jam wrote this song for the film based off of Big Fish. The song suits the movie perfectly and so I think it would fit the book, as well. It's a beautiful song.Fitting lyrics from this song:"The man of the hour has taken his final bow. Goodbye for now."

7: Persuasion set to PersuasionI think it speaks for itself. ;-)Fitting lyrics from this song:"They say I don't deserve you when it's true that I would prefer you over anyone's persuasion."
6: Go Away set to I Capture the CastleI think I once listened to this while I watched the trailer of the movie adaptation (which I still haven't seen yet) and so I always think of the book when I listen to this song. But I also thing the vibe of the song fits the book.Fitting lyrics from this song:"I am a part of your soul, boy, and when you say you're gone I have to reach my arms outstretched to you 'cause I know we're through."
5: If You'reWondering set to Wuthering HeightsEvery time I hear this song I imagine Heathcliff sitting inside Catherine's bedroom waiting for her spirit to enter through the open window.Fitting lyrics from this song:"I was wanting you to show me. I was wondering all the time. But if the moon shines on you while you're sleeping, it will show you all that I'm feeling inside."
4: Tonight, Tonight turned into a book.This is my favorite Smashing Pumpkins song. I love the melancholy tune and the music video is so beautiful. I think this song could be a really great book if someone were to adapt it into one.Fitting lyrics from this song:"Time is never time at all. You can never ever leave without leaving a piece of you. And our lives are forever changed, we will never be the same. The more you change the less you feel."
3: Marvelous Things set to A Wrinkle in TimeThis Eisley song always makes me think of A Wrinkle in Time. It has that whimsical feel that suits the book and with the references to dark nights, it makes you think of the stormy night on which the story begins.Fitting lyrics from this song:"Dark night hold tight and sleep tight my baby. Morning light shall burst bright and keep us here safely."

2: Stay Focusedset to The HobbitThe tune of this Rising Fawn song has always made me think of The Hobbit. I don't know why, exactly, but there's just something about it that sounds like something a hobbit would listen to.Fitting lyrics from this song:"And ever you fear of the pain know it's near. I'll keep you safe as you breathe through the tears. I know you can do this, I know you can."

1: I Could Be Therefor You set to Little WomenEisley is a family band and it's evident that the sisters especially are close. In Little Women, the March sisters are very close, too. I think this song perfectly suits the book, especially after Beth's passing.Fitting lyrics from this song:"You'll never contemplate that I am near and help goes unseen. You're the cave admitting whom you choose and I could be there for you."

So there are my top ten book and music combos! I had fun putting this list together. Are there any songs that remind you of a certain book? Or are there any songs you think should be turned into a book? Let me know in the comments!
-Miranda Atchley

A Castle in the Sky Cover Reveal!

Hello everyone! I have very exciting news for you all...... Are you ready?
The cover for my new book is here!



Isn't it lovely? I purchased the images from Dreamstimeand my sister-in-law made a cover out of them. I am so thrilled with it; I think it's beautiful. I love it so much that I've set it as my wallpaper on my phone.
About The Book :
In 1915 it is believed that there isn't much hope for a woman beyond marriage. Yet Abi Leigh Hensley, lover of the written word, believes otherwise. After her parents' failed attempt at an arranged marriage, Abi leaves the comfort of her wealthy upbringing in San Francisco to pursue her dreams of becoming an author in New York City. Excitement seems to loom around each corner, yet Abi may be in for than she bargained for.

If you'd like to see more photo inspiration for A Castle in the Sky, you can on my pin board dedicated to the book on Pinterest.
A Castle in the Skywill release April 26, 2016! I will definitely let you all know when it is available for pre-order on Amazon. In April I'm planning on holding a blog tour. If you would like to participate, please email me at: mirandaatchley7@gmail.com I would love for anyone interested to participate and greatly appreciate any help in promoting this book! And there might be a giveaway during the blog tour. ;-)
I am beyond excited. Thank you all so much for the kind words and encouragement. It means the world to me. I can't wait for you all to read the book this spring!

-Miranda Atchley

Favorite Word Friday #15 "Lovely"

Hey everyone. In honor of Sunday being Valentine's Day, I though I'd re-run one of my favorite editions of Favorite Word Friday. Lovely is one of my all-time favorite words and I think it suits the holiday. Thanks for stopping by!



Lovely adjective love·ly \ˈləv-lē\attractive or beatutifulvery good or likeablevery pleasing
  Can you say the word "lovely" and not feel.... lovely? I can't. To me it has a light and airy feel when you say it. It's as though your tone automatically eases and becomes more gentle as you say the word. You can't speak such phrases as listed below and be angry.  It's a lovely day.  This is a lovely book.  His eyes are lovely.  The word lovely always makes me think of 19th century literature, something that I love. They seemed to use it a lot back then. I think modern life would be better if we took time to appreciate the lovelier things in life, for there is an abundance of them.  
Hope you all have a lovely Valentine's Day! See you all Monday for something very special......
-Miranda Atchley.
(definition taken from the Merriam Webster online dictionary)

Room Noises

Room Noises by EisleyRoom Noises is the debut album by Eisley, released in 2005. It consists of 12 whimsical songs in an indie rock style. I love this album. True, it isn't my absolute favorite by Eisley, but it is so good. I love the whimsical feel that the songs hold, especially ones like Marvelous Thingsand Brightly Wound. It's a record that I will listen time and time again.
MemoriesIt's beautiful things that spring from these roads | With they're beautiful names and musical sounds
Telescope EyesI wonder why can't you see | You're just not near enough like me | With your telescope eyes | Metal teeth | I can't be seen with you, you see
I Wasn't PreparedWhen the day is blue | I'll sit here wondering about you
Golly SandraOh you are my scar and that's not very far
Marvelous ThingsI followed a rabbit through rows of mermaid entwined shrubbery | Oh, what marvelous things | But they are giving me the creeps  Brightly WoundI shall never grow up | Make believe is much too fun | Can we go far away to the humming meadow?
Lost At SeaCongratulations cause we've made it | All the way home | And you know that until the stars fall | I'll always love you
My LovelyHere's a song for you lovely | Remember that it is for you only | My heart was caught in a landslide | But now it feels for you only
Just Like We DoDear did you know | That people love each other | Just like we do | Just like they do
Plenty of PaperAnd wouldn't we be attractive riding in our shiny motor cars | With eye glasses full of stars | And plenty of paper for scenery paintings
One Day I Slowly Floated AwayHard to foresee the future | Our bodies are growing thin | Glimpsing the peeling paint of glimmers his ivory chin | You've got a lot of nerve coming here you're eyes are beating rhythms way | Faster than the speeding bullet that took the life of your radio
Trolley WoodGone for the day to the trolley wood | I've gone for the day to the trolley wood | The trolley wood is taking me away


My favorite songs on Room Noises are: Memories, Golly Sandra, Marvelous Things, Brightly Wound, Plenty of Paper, and One Day I Slowly Floated Away

Little Women Read Along Discussion #1

Happy Wednesday! Today is the first blog discussion for the Little Women read along. I've been having a blast with this. Here are my answers to this week's set of questions hosted by Suey.
1: What's your opinions so far about each of the girls? Do you identify more with one or the other of them? Do you like them, or do they get on your nerves in a way? Which one do you think would be your friend?2: What do you think of Mrs. March aka. Marmee? What's one of your favorite pieces of advice or lessons she's taught the girls so far?3: Do you think that the characterization of these girls and this family is realistic? Explain.4: What's your favorite scene or incident so far? And why?5: If this is your second (or third etc.) time reading this story, what stands out to you this time?6: If this is your first time reading this story, is it meeting your expectations? Or is it different than expected? Explain.7: How do you feel about Jo cutting off her hair? Was this incident surprising to you? Do you think it's symbolic of anything?8: What's your feeling about the inclusion of poems, letters, stories, plays and etc. into the story? 9: Any thoughts in particular on the male characters in this story?10: Are you liking this reading experience? If yes, why? If not, why?

1- My opinions of the March sisters are..Meg- she can be vain and a bit superficial, but also has her moments of sweetness and is a very maternal person.
Jo- a girl after my own heart! She has a mind of her own and doesn't care what anyone thinks of her except her family. She's rough around the edges but has a heart of gold, especially when it comes to her sister, even Amy. She works hard at her writing and is someone I greatly look up to.
Beth- one of the sweetest souls I've ever heard of. She's the kind of person you just can't help but love because she is just the sweetest girl in the world.
Amy- a bit vain and superficial too mixed with a bit of Jo's quick temper. Though she isn't my absolute favorite of the sisters, I still appreciate her as a part of the March family.
2- I love Marmee. Granted, I don't feel like there are many women in the world like her, but the world would probably be a better place if there were. I love her advice to Jo about her temper and I love how she teaches the girls to be good wives and moms if they choose that life, but that it isn't a requirement that they marry.
3- At first glance, I would almost say no. They seem too squeaky clean to be realistic. But once you take the time to really read the story, you come to see that they are all flawed, even Marmee claiming that she is where Jo gets her quick temper.
4-  There are lot of scenes that I love. I love the description of the sisters at the beginning, especially the quote about Beth even though it makes me want to cry. Jo cutting off her hair was nice because it showed how much she loved her family. And the party scene where Jo and Meg meet Laurie has always been a favorite.

5- This is my second time reading Little Women, but my first time to read the full version. Having read an abridged copy before, I definitely notice how very detailed this book is! I love getting to read all these beautiful golden nuggets throughout this book that were not in the abridged version I read at 15.
6
7 I wasn't surprised about Jo cutting off her hair because I had read the book before and I can't remember if it surprised me the first time I read it or not. I'm sure that was very scandalous in the 1800s as short was not the fashion in those days. I think it represented how much she loved her family; she cared so much for her father's well-being that she got rid of her "one beauty."
8- I think it's nice to see their poems and stories, though they do get a bit lengthy at times.
9- Oh yeah, I have lots of thoughts on the guys! Haha! Laurie is the best. He's funny and a bit pesky, but he would do anything for the March's. I like when romances start out as friendships because I thinks it's important for couples to be friends more than anything. And though John Brooke isn't my absolute favorite, I think there are moments in which he proves to be a nice guy and good for Meg.
10- I am loving this reading so far! I love reading a more in-depth version of this beloved classic and I love getting to chat with others online about it. I've never participated in a read along before and really don't get many opportunities to talk books with others so this has been a wonderful experience for me.
So there are on my thoughts on this read along so far! If you're participating in the read along, feel free to comment below; I'd love to hear what you have to say! Thanks for stopping by and I can't wait to talk to you all more about this fantastic read.

-Miranda Atchley

Top Ten Tuesday: Fictional Crushes

Happy Tuesday everyone! This is my first time to participate in Top Ten Tuesday hosted by The Broke and The Bookish. I love making lists and I'm excited to start participating in this weekly series.
In honor of Valentine's day being right around the corner, this week's top ten topic is favorite fictional crushes. Hope you enjoy my picks!

10 Gale, The Hunger GamesI know Peeta Mellark is The Hunger Games guy most everyone swoons over, but I have to say I like Gale. He was always a good friend to Katniss and helped take care of her family while she was in the games. Gale is a good guy.
9 Mr. Darcy, Pride and PrejudiceHe starts out as being a pretty big jerk, but he later makes up for it. "You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you." Come on! *Swoon*
8 Keegan, While You're AwakeKeegan is a sweetheart. He's funny and lighthearted but also a knight in shining armor to Ava. The world could use more Keegans!
7 Wesley, The Princess BrideWesley was a true gentleman. Buttercup walked all over him, but he still loved her and saved her.
6 Eli Morretti, Amy Inspired  Eli is an unconventional gentleman. He wears his dark hair long, has a tattoo and draws on everything, but he's one of the friendliest and most respectful fictional guys I've ever seen.
5 Jess Mariano, Gilmore Girls  I never would have guessed that I would come to like the bad boy on Gilmore Girls. He was such a pain in the beginning! But after taking some time to himself, Jess really pulled himself together and became quite the catch.  4 Gilbert Grape, What's Eating Gilbert Grape?It's Johnny Depp. Enough said.
3 Tom Branson, Downton AbbeyTom loved Sybil deeply and it was evident to anyone who saw them together. Tom's the best of the Downton Abbey guys in my opinion, and that is saying something.
2 Theodore "Laurie" Laurence, Little Women Laurie is just the best. He was there for the March sisters through everything. And though he went through some rough patches, he still had a good heart underneath it all. I'm still not over the fact the Jo turned down his proposal.

1 Gilbert Blythe, Anne of Green GablesWho doesn't love Gilbert Blythe? Sure, he was a bit of a know-it-all in the beginning, but he grew into a sensitive and smart man. He waited for over a decade for Anne. You can't not swoon over Gilbert Blythe.

So there are my top ten fictional crushes. Let me know in the comments who you "ardently admire and love." ;)

-Miranda Atchley

Book of the Week #32 "The French Twist Series"

The French Twist Seriesby Sandra Byrd
24-year-old Lexi Stuart can't seem to find her niche. She has a college degree in French studies and has worked a few different jobs since graduating, but hasn't been able to keep any of them, nor has she been able to keep a boyfriend. After moving back in with her parents and being let go of from another job, she's beginning to wonder if things will ever look up. Then she goes to L'Esperance for a morning cafe creme and decides to apply for a job despite the fact that she will likely disappoint everyone in her family. What she doesn't know is that this new job could open doors she never dreamed would be in her future.

Books in the series include: Let Them Eat Cake Bon Appetite Piece De Resistance
So this is not my typical read. If I'm going to read romance, it's most likely going to be historical because I just prefer the style, yet I do find exceptions here and there. I would never have guessed that I'd enjoy this series as I have nothing (and I do mean nothing) in common with any of the characters. Lexi is a pretty bubbly type of person and that's just not the type of person I normally relate to. But there are moments when she expresses feelings of doubt and I think that helps bring her back down to earth. Some of the dialogue is enjoyable too, as it is fast paced and lets you really fly through the book. But I think the thing that really draws me to this series is the French influence. I really like that and enjoyed reading about it. Bon Appetite was my favorite as it took place primarily in France. I read all of these on my Kindle and loved seeing all the little Eiffel Tower's scattered throughout the books. And fair warning; these books will make you hungry! I loved reading about Lexi's cooking adventures.
I'll admit that the romance could be a bit too cutesy for me, but that's just personal preference. I like a bit of tragedy thrown in with romance and that's not happening here. And I was not thrilled with who Lexi wound up with, but again, that's just personal preference.
There are a lot of little things here and there that lower my view of these books, but then other things like the setting, the witty humor bits and Lexi's faith journey build it back up for me.
All in all, The French Twist Series is a sweet series that lovers of contemporary Christian romance will adore.

I give this series a 3 out 5.