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Showing posts with label Una Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Una Review. Show all posts
Friday, June 21, 2013
Review: His Clockwork Canary by Beth Ciotta
His Clockwork Canary
Author: Beth Ciotta
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Publisher: Signet
The Glorious Victorious
Darcys #2
Darcys #2
ISBN: #978-0451239990
Genre: Steampunk (Paranormal Romance)
Format(s): Paperback (352 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
|
History is repeating itself.
For ambitious engineer Simon Darcy, winning Queen Victoria’s competition to recover lost inventions of historical significance is a matter of pride—and redemption. After all, it was Simon’s failed monorail project that left his family destitute, and winning the tournament would surely restore the Darcys’ reputation.
Simon sets his sights high, targeting no less than the infamous time-travel device that forever changed the world by transporting scientists, engineers, and artists from the twentieth century. The Mod technology was banned and supposedly destroyed, but Simon is sure he can re-create it.
His daring plan draws the attention of Willie G., the Clockwork Canary, London’s sensationalist reporter. Simon soon discovers that Willie is a male guise for Wilhemina Goodenough, the love of his youth, who left him jilted and bitter. He questions her motives even as he falls prey to her unique charm. As the attraction between the two reignites, Simon realizes that this vixen from his past has secrets that could be the key to his future…as long as he can put their history behind him.
What Una is talking about:
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I have found that I love steampunk romance – that glorious mix of historical and science fiction all tied up with romance. It’s great escapism. Speaking of great escapism, the second novel in The Glorious Victorious Darcys is out! His Clockwork Canary is an exciting and passionate sequel to Her Sky Cowboy, leaving me salivating for the next book.
This second novel begins where the previous novel began, the death of Reginald Darcy. Unlike the first book that follows the path of Amelia, His Clockwork Canary follows Simon on his pursuit of the Triple R Tourney prize. What continues to be fascinating about this world is the blend of decades it represents. We get more of it in this novel than the previous.
The steampunk elements are related to a time machine that Briscoe Darcy created that sent him (during a world’s fair demonstration) to 1969. When the device returned, it was with the Peace Rebels – people from 1969 looking to stop the wars and devastation of the time by going back and urging the world towards peace. They had hoped to bypass those atrocities in our world’s history that took place after. However…things did not go as planned. Now this Victorian era has modern conveniences, some altered to work in this time period and Freaks. Freaks are those children who are the result of a Mod (a person from 1969) and a Vic (a person from the Victorian era). They are easily distinguishable by their rainbow sparkling eyes and they have a special ability (or more). Due to this, there are Old Worlders – those who wish to retain the Victorian era, and New Worlders – those who wish to embrace the new. In those two groups you also have the Flatlines – those that want to capitalized on the modern world and dominate. Not only does the Victorian era still have its social stratification, but now Freaks and Vics are forbidden to marry.
As the novel unfolds, we discover that Simon is feeling guilt-stricken by the situation the family finds itself in after his father’s death. Simon feels responsible for his family being near destitute and the fact that he was not assisting his father in his experiments. Simon has strived to make his mark on the world bringing pride to his parents and a little glory to himself. It’s tough growing up in the shadow of Briscoe Darcy, his cousin responsible for creating a time machine. Not to mention, Simon feels as if he is a shadow to his twin brother Jules, a war hero. Simon is compelled to win this competition as a means to alleviate his guilt and gain a little pride and glory back for his family and himself.
The notorious Clockwork Canary is Willie G. He is widely known for the titillating tabloid articles and being able to ferret out information. However, Willie hides a few deep secrets, one of which is that he is really a she. Even though this is a time period in flux, it is still restricting to women – meaning Willie would not have this job if she was a woman, and hence her deception. She works to keep her father afloat because ever since her mother was killed, her father has not been mentally stable. To complicate matters, she is estranged from her brother, Westley, who has taken off and cut ties with her and her father. Another secret Willie keeps is her connection to Simon. We discover that someone knows all of Willie’s secrets and uses those secrets to blackmail her into shadowing Simon on his quest. Once he finds something of merit for the Triple R Tourney, she is to contact the blackmailer at once so he can obtain it.
As His Clockwork Canary progresses, there is an undeniable connection between Simon and Willie – but they are both nursing their hurts and guilt from their own issues. However, watching them overcome these different obstacles was heartwarming. Just when you think they are past the point of no return, they come together again. There are a few cliffhanger moments that make this novel a nail bitter to the end. It was difficult to put down.
I will admit I felt that the sibling rivalry was not as noticeable or severe as it was built up to be. There is great love and affection between Jules and Simon, making it difficult to surmise he would feel a sense of lack as compared to his brother. It never seemed to come across that strongly – this deep rooted sibling rivalry. Part of me is pleased by it since I felt it was not necessary to the story. Also, I really liked Simon and just didn’t see the rivalry in his character. One thing I had hoped to be explained was the emotional connection or tie that existed between Simon and his brother because I felt he had that same emotional connection with Willie. I loved it, as it enhanced the rightness of their relationship, but I did wonder how that was possible.
All in all though, I really enjoyed His Clockwork Canary. Being able to see Amelia and Tucker was the icing on the cake. While researching for this review, I discovered a 1.5 novella, His Broken Angel, which I will be picking up. I have my suspicions on who it is focused on (I am so excited) which is why I am eager to get it downloaded to my Kindle. If you are looking for some fun, a bit fluffy, but exciting steampunk – pick up The Glorious Victorious Darcys. However, I really recommend you start with Her Sky Cowboy, it’s just as fabulous.
Una’s Rating:
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Enjoyed – Strongly Recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Labels:
4 stars,
Beth Ciotta,
romance,
Signet,
steampunk,
The Glorious Victorious Darcys,
Una Review
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Friday, June 14, 2013
Review: The Magic of "I Do" by Tammy Falkner
The Magic of I Do
Author: Tammy Falkner
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Regency Faery #2
ISBN: #978-1402268151
Genre: Historical/ Paranormal Romance
Format(s): Paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Claire Thorne is a faerie on a mission. When the governing body of her world puts a prohibition on magic, she escapes to the human world and straight into the arms of Lord Phineas Tremble. When he insists on being her crime-solving partner, she does everything she can to get rid of him—until she realizes his gift for smooth talking might come in handy when tracking down a killer. Before long, Finn has his hands full keeping Claire out of trouble, because the two of them together create more sparks than her faerie dust ever could...
What Una is talking about:
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I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this Historical Paranormal Romance series, A Lady and her Magic. The second novel, The Magic of I Do, is just as fun and fluffy and was more even more engaging. I continue to enjoy this fresh Regency Faery series.
As we reenter this fascinating world of Regency Faery, we are better introduced to Sophia’s sister, Claire. While Sophia is stubborn, Claire in contrast will make Sophia look as if she lacks a backbone. Claire is delightfully hardheaded, sarcastically witty and carries a bit of a chip on her shoulder. She is having a very difficult time adjusting to the impact that Sophia’s romance and marriage to Ashley, the Duke of Robinsworth, had on the fae. Most notably the inclusion of her estranged/banished mother, father and her siblings (most who are not considered fae).
Finn, the Duke of Robinsworth’s brother, is a rake. He is the younger son, so he is a gentleman with no profession. Except, he enjoys solving mysteries, interestingly enough, and it seems it is something other members of the ton know. Finn seems to have a somewhat successful time of solving crimes, discretely which causes someone to seek his assistance in The Magic of I Do. However, as the novel begins Finn’s life was devastated when his long time mistress leaves him for a wealthier gentleman.
At the conclusion of A Lady and her Magic, Claire is entrusted into Finn’s care. As The Magic of I Do begins it seems that Claire and Finn are stoutly opposed to each other. However a bit of whiskey and relaxation create the catalyst for them to find themselves attracted. With the isolation they are experiencing at the time, they find themselves in an unplanned tryst. After their passionate encounter, Claire is shortly whisked away with the winds to be reunited with her family due to the death of her grandfather. While home, Claire discovers that her indiscretion with Finn may have a more serious consequence than the breaking one of the five Unpardonable Errors. But the changes occurring in her homeland and the reconciliation that her parents seek with her are too much for her to handle. Claire finds an old paintbrush from her childhood as she attempts to hide from her parents and nurse her anger. It seems Claire has an unusual talent for being able to step into paintings. In trying to runaway for a moment of solace, finds her back in the temptation of Finn and without her magic faerie dust.
While trapped for the time being as an almost human with Finn, she discovers Finn’s talent for solving mysteries and attempts to help him. Much to Finn’s chagrin, he discovers Claire trying to sneak around and spy on him. However, as much as Finn tries to protect Claire, she finds herself in the crosshairs of an evil man who is bent on painful retribution on Finn and Ashley. As the mystery heats up, so does the attraction between Finn and Claire – much as they remind themselves that they will not fall in love.
The Magic of I Do has many different parts. As I write this review there is so much that happens and yet the book is not as long as you think. It is just richly written with the right balance between passion (and some VERY steamy moments/interludes), the mystery and drama of the evil man and the resolution of the attraction between Finn and Claire. If you haven’t tried this series yet, I urge you, if it is your cup of tea, to pick it up. The Regency Faery series is a fun historical romance with a good dash of paranormal romance.
Una’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
FOR A CHANCE TO WIN the first book in the series, A Lady and Her Magic, stop by the guest post from author Tammy Falkner, HERE.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Review: Fall of Night by Rachel Caine
Fall of Night
Author: Rachel Caine
Release Date: May 7, 2013
Publisher: NAL
The Morganville Vampires #14
ISBN: #978-0451414250
Genre: YA Paranormal
Format(s): Hardcover (352 pgs)
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Claire never thought she’d leave Morganville, but when she gets accepted into the graduate program at MIT, she can’t pass up the opportunity. Saying good-bye to her friends is bittersweet, especially since things are still raw and unsettled between Claire and her boyfriend, Shane.
Her new life at MIT is scary and exciting, but Morganville is never really far from Claire’s mind. Enrolled in a special advanced study program with Professor Irene Anderson, a former Morganville native, Claire is able to work on her machine, which is designed to cancel the mental abilities of vampires.
But when she begins testing her machine on live subjects, things quickly spiral out of control, and Claire starts to wonder whether leaving Morganville was the last mistake she’ll ever make...
What Una is talking about:
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Fall of Night is the fourteenth book on the Morganville Vampire series. Ms. Caine has been successful as this series continues, which is no small feat with a long running series. Considering the end of the previous novel, Bitter Blood, I was concerned how Fall of Night would go. I am pleasantly surprised how Claire's adventure to MIT went and even more intrigued with what awaited her in Morganville.
The love story between Claire and Shane has had its trials and triumphs. However, as Bitter Blood came to a close, Shane's distrust of Claire was a final straw. With the Founder's permission, Claire has a one-way ticket to her dream, an independent study at MIT. However, even though Shane has the same permission, Claire refuses to have him accompany her. She needs to see what life is like outside of Morganville and on her own. She has dreamed of attending MIT and pursuing high academic studies. Plus, after all of her time in Morganville, she dreams of a normal life.
Fall of Night begins with Claire leaving Morganville and heading to MIT to see what a normal life is like. However, normal is a matter of opinion, and Claire is a fully assimilated Morganviller. From the start of her reunion with her BFF from high school to her new professor and boss, Dr. Anderson, Claire is not sure this was the right decision. Between the changes her roommate has gone through, not to mention her creepy ex-stalker, and the oddness of Dr. Anderson together with the suits that she works for, Claire feels she was safer in Morganville. Even with that, she is eager to start working in earnest on her device, and considering she is not in Morganville, Claire assumes she is safe. But the normal world has dangers of its own, and it is easier to live with the enemies you know than the unknown. It seems that there is a new enemy in the world of Morganville that is making its introduction to Claire finally and forcefully.
Anyone would think that with Claire leaving Morganville, Fall of Night would be solely from Claire's point of view, but that is not the case. In what world would Shane let Claire march into the unknown without being close, just in case? Certainly not this one. However, Shane does give Claire the space she asks for, just not in the distance she thought. So there are both point of views during the course of Fall of Night. Being able to have both Claire and Shane's point of views allows the reader to experience the growth that they both experience during this separation.
I will warn you, there is a huge cliffhanger at the end and personally, I cannot wait to find out what happens next in the Morganville Vampires series. If you haven't heard of this great young adult series, I would recommend starting at the beginning.
Una’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Labels:
4 stars,
Morganville Vampires,
NAL,
paranormal YA,
Rachel Caine,
Una Review,
YA Literature
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Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Review: A Most Improper Rumor by Emma Wildes
A Most Improper Rumor
Author: Emma Wildes
Release Date: March 5, 2013
Publisher: Signet
Whispers of Scandal #2
ISBN: # 978-0451239587
Genre: Historical Romance
Format(s): Paperback (314 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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What is society to do when the diamonds of the first water are caught in compromising situations, one after the other? Can the young ladies survive the season with their reputations intact…or will the scandalous whispers surrounding them bring about the ultimate ruination?
Once the toast of the ton, Lady Angelina DeBrooke is no longer known just for her exquisite beauty, but more for her notorious marriages. Dubbed the Dark Angel, she has fallen in love for the first time and wishes to marry, but fears finding herself a widow for the third time. With two poisoned husbands and a cloud of suspicion hanging over her head, she turns to the only man in England who might help her…
Benjamin Wallace, Lord Heathton, isn’t interested in playing detective again, but when Lady DeBrooke approaches him in a quest to clear her name, he finds the challenge irresistible. Her second husband was an old friend, and when he takes a closer look, he catches the scent of a foe he has hunted before—and knows this is his chance to finally trap the elusive prey...
What Una is talking about:
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To me is nothing better than combing a good mystery with your historical romance. Ms. Wildes does another excellent job in her second novel in the Whispers of Scandal series, A Most Improper Rumor. The plot thickens between Lord Heathton and his most nefarious and sly opponent.
In A Most Improper Rumor we are introduced to Angelina, Lady DeBrooke – shunned by the haut ton for allegedly murdering her previous two husbands, she lives a quiet life in exile. That is until she meets Baron Lowe. Christopher never believed in love at first site, neither did Angelina, but when they first meet, they just knew. However, as much as Christopher wishes to make Angelina his wife, she fears that whoever murdered her husbands, will kill Christopher. Sadly, they live apart, living for those moments when they are able to secure their secret trysts.
Love can not only heal, but give hope, which can lead a lady to finding her inner strength and courage. Angelina, against her better judgment, approaches Ben, Lord Heathton in order to secure his assistance in discovering any information that might lead to the actual culprit of the murders. Much to Angelina’s surprise (she has been sufficiently snubbed by her previous peers), he agrees. Thus begins this next chapter in Heathton’s hunt for the very clever society/debutante stalker.
It seems this enemy has struck before, not just in his attempt to ruin Alicia, Lady Heathton’s niece’s debut (the previous novel, Ruined by Moonlight). As Heathton looks into Lady DeBrooke’s case, he discovers this foe enjoys exerting a control over the brightest star in each season’s debut; ruining one lady after another. But as Heathton uncovers more, the foe turns his attentions towards Heathton and what he holds most dear.
As captivating as Ruined by Moonlight was, A Most Improper Rumor was even more gripping. I thoroughly enjoy the continuing relationship between Alicia and Ben. The nuances of their relationship as they work to find common ground and happiness are poignant. Showing that the best relationships do require work – and how rewarding that work can be. It is also intriguing to see the comparison between Alicia and Ben’s relationship verses the relationship of Angelina and Christopher. The way Ms. Wildes is able to compare and contrast the relationships – whether intentional or not – is thoroughly fascinating.
Although it seemed to me that the instigator of this case is obvious, the conclusion of the novel was not. I hope there will be another Whispers of Scandal novel in the future, because I am very much enjoying this series. If you enjoy a little mystery/detective drama with your historical romance, you’ll love this series!
Una’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Labels:
4 stars,
Emma Wildes,
historical romance,
Signet,
Una Review,
Whispers of Scandal
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2
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Friday, April 5, 2013
Review: Sweet Madness by Heather Snow
Sweet Madness
Author: Heather Snow
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: Signet
A Veiled Seduction #3
ISBN: #978-0451239679
Genre: Historical Romance
Format(s): Paperback (384 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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An Untamed Mind
Ever since her husband’s sudden and tragic death, Lady Penelope Bridgeman has committed herself to studying the maladies of the mind, particularly treating traumatized soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars. It is this expertise that brings the Marquess of Bromwich’s family to her door.
Gabriel Devereaux’s unexpected and unpredictable episodes are unlike any Penelope has studied. The once proud soldier has been left shaken and withdrawn, but she manages to build a fragile trust between them. Strangely, Gabriel seems completely lucid when not in the grips of his mania, and in the calm between bouts, she is surprised by how much she is drawn to him.
Despite his own growing feelings, Gabriel knows that he is fit for no one, and is determined to keep Penelope away from his descent into madness. But even though she knows firsthand the folly of loving a broken man, Penelope cannot stop herself from trying to save him, no matter the cost.
What Una is talking about:
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Sweet Madness is the third book in the Veiled Seductions series and stands out from the previous two. Our heroine, Penelope is very different from the previous two, Liliana and Emma. Penelope is not an intellectual genius. That being said, she is just as determined and the other two and just as entertaining.
What caught my eye in the Veiled Seduction series is that the heroines are strong willed and brilliant women living in a time where those qualities are not respected or desired. I loved watching them meet their match in the heroes of the previous novels. Maybe it is also a strange pleasure, but I enjoyed the reactions of those around them as they pursued their “odd” exploits. However, Sweet Madness is very different from the first two novels. Penelope is not an intellectual. She was raised to be a society lady and did quite well in marrying a man with title and money. However, that path did not work out well for her. She finds herself after a couple years of marriage, widowed. But through the experience she strives to help others, soldiers who are suffering battle fatigue (what we now call post-traumatic stress disorder).
Gabriel was a soldier who met and loved Penelope from the first time he saw her. Unfortunately it was at his cousin’s wedding, where he was married to Penelope. However, meeting Penelope gave Gabriel the courage to try to find a slice of happiness for him and fight the darkness within. However, that did not go as planned for him either. Gabriel is secured within sanitarium, enduring treatments (more akin to torture) for his mental illness. He suffers from maniac episodes that come without warning and are appearing to escalate. Gabriel’s mother sends Penelope to him in hopes that she can cure or at least ease his illness so that he may return home.
The story of Gabriel and Penelope in Sweet Madness is heart-wrenchingly beautiful. Penelope is extremely intuitive and her ability to emotionally reach out and help those suffering from mental illness is amazing. Her drive to help other is strong and overpowering. When she and Gabriel meet, it is like kismet. Following their path as they reach a happily ever after was passionate, nerve wracking, and frightening. While Gabriel faces his fears in order to overcome his battle fatigue, we learn about some real experiences of war. But within that pain he finds freedom and a chance at life in the light.
I continue to thoroughly enjoy the Veiled Seductions series. If you haven’t started it, I encourage you to do so. Sweet Madness was an excellent third book and a wonderful contrast to the previous two novels. I eagerly look forward to the next book in the series.
Una’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Review: Lady of Ashes by Christine Trent
Lady of Ashes
Author: Christine Trent
Release Date: Feb. 26 2013
Publisher: Kensington
Lady of Ashes #1
ISBN: #978-0758265913
Genre: Historical Mystery
Format(s): Paperback (420 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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In 1861 London, Violet Morgan is struggling to establish a good reputation for the undertaking business that her husband has largely abandoned. She provides comfort for the grieving, advises them on funeral fashion and etiquette, and arranges funerals.
Unbeknownst to his wife, Graham, who has nursed a hatred of America since his grandfather soldiered for Great Britain in the War of 1812, becomes involved in a scheme to sell arms to the South. Meanwhile, Violet receives the commission of a lifetime: undertaking the funeral for a friend of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. But her position remains precarious, especially when Graham disappears and she begins investigating a series of deaths among the poor. And the closer she gets to the truth, the greater the danger for them both…
What Una is talking about:
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Lady of Ashes is a book that piqued my interest. I grew up watching Agatha Christie and Masterpiece Theatre with my mom. There is a very soft spot in my heart for historical mysteries. Only recently have I started indulging that love. I requested this book from Twimom as a way to rekindle a love of a genre and fondly remember my mother as the anniversary of her death looms. What better novel to read than a historical mystery about a female undertaker in Victorian England who may have uncovered a serial killer?
First, let me say that I thoroughly enjoyed Lady of Ashes, once I let go of waiting for and eagerly searching for the mystery. As the beginning book of a new series, there was quite of bit of building to where we discover the apparently odd deaths. However, that is not to say that it is a bunch of historical “window dressing” drama. Ms. Morgan is a fascinating character. I found myself drawn to her, understanding her passion for a rather odd trade for a woman, especially a married one. Her gentile nature combined with her iron backboard presented a female character that not only was realistic in the period, but understandable as she accepted her role in society (to an extent) even while pushing boundaries.
By a twist of fate, Ms. Morgan is accidentally acquainted with the Prince Consort, who is impressed by Violet’s skills as an undertaker. Here is an excerpt that nicely sums up how Ms. Morgan is viewed by her peers:
The queen handed the card back to her husband with a sniff. “You say this woman was actually embalming a man? How horrifying for you, my love.”
Albert tucked the card inside the top desk drawer of the Blue Room at Windsor Castle, originally built as a fortress and now the longest-occupied palace in Europe. The present residents enjoyed luxurious state apartments, renovated early in the century by George IV. Victoria brought further improvements to the castle, including running water, but had refused the installation of gas lights, preferring candles as so many Britons did.
“Quite the opposite. I was enthralled. Curious that we aren’t doing it here. It seems a worthy endeavor to me.”
“Hardly!” Victoria wrinkled her nose. “It sounds like a disgusting practice to me. And being performed by a woman, no less.”
“I thought so at first, too, but she was very competent, liebchen.” He tapped the desk drawer. “Remember Ms. Morgan when my time comes.”
This excerpt is also an excellent example of how Ms. Trent adds those historical facts without it reading or feeling like a history lesson. That aspect is something that tends to dissuade me from reading some historical novels; if I wanted a history lesson, I would take a class or buy a textbook. However, these facts and milestones are seamlessly woven into the storyline, enriching the storytelling.
The only complaint I had, which was really just a misunderstanding of the summary excerpt I had read, made me feel as if the whole of the novel was a murder mystery. It is only a small portion (and nearer to the end), but what was a complete surprise to me (quite enthrallingly) were the domestic conflicts that seemed to take center stage. The novel summary in this review is far more accurate a description and should not give the misconception I had. The trials that Ms. Morgan faces for a Victorian woman, I feel, would have broken anyone else. I truly admire her will and strength of character. Reading about this period in her life was truly fascinating.
The escape I found in Lady of Ashes was immensely enjoyable and a world I look forward to revisiting. The next book in the series is scheduled for sometime next year. If you have any interest in historical mysteries, I am confident you would enjoy Lady of Ashes.
Una’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Before and After… A Year’s Journey by Una
Since I was a kid, I thought I was fat. It wasn’t until sixth grade that I realized or accepted that I was chunky. I was not an inactive kid, mind you, I took horseback riding lessons, I danced – ballet, tap, character, etc. However, when puberty hit, I got curves… generous ones, even with all the activities I was in. It would be a long time before I would learn that I wasn’t fat, at least not then.
As I entered into high school, I stopped dancing and horseback riding and threw myself into sports. I played volleyball, soccer and swimming. Most of my girlfriends did not play sports and were, for the most part, twigs. They all wore single digit sizes in clothes. I did not. I was the double digit girl. Much to my chagrin, my best friend played three sports and was a single digit size. I figured, I was going to be “thick” and that was just the way I was. I was not meant to be thin or skinny. I was meant to be average… curvy, athletic. As with most kids graduating high school, I went on to college. Exercised less, did not really know to alter eating habits (since I wasn’t as active), although I ate fairly healthy. My parents raised me well. I had three meals a day – all food groups were correctly represented and consumed. I love to cook so it was easy to watch what I ate.
Fast forward to a few years ago – my hubby and I decided to try for kids. I was a little heavy, but not far off from what I thought was my “normal”. Being curvy, I accepted I wore women’s sizes, double digit because that is just what I am. I figured I should get in a better shape if I was to get pregnant. Well, got pregnant faster than I expected. I don’t know if this is common, but I thought…I won’t have to gain much weight…I could just try to maintain and end up losing weight while I was pregnant. Ha! That was just me being completely unrealistic. I gained…I gained more than I wanted, about what average pregnancy gain is, but it put me at 250 pounds. Mind you, I am five-foot-three-inches tall.
Then, my life had some trials. My son was born early and I was released from the hospital the day of my great-aunt’s funeral. Two months later, I lost my gramma – my father’s mother. As some of you faithful blog followers may know, my mom’s cancer returned with a vengeance during this year. The next year, my son turned one, my step-grandfather died, my mother died, my husband’s aunt died, my last surviving grandparent: my Barbar died. Suffice to say, I started to lose the weight at the beginning of the year and then gained it all back. By the time I surfaced from my comfort eating, I was back at 250 pounds only this time I wouldn’t be gaining a child from that weight. 
The “before” picture you see…that is me from July 2011. Seeing that picture, having no energy to play with my two-and-a-half year old son, I was done, seriously done with being big. But I was so far gone, I couldn’t do the exercise routine I was used to…I was too heavy. My blood pressure was a mess, I was having dizzy spells, couldn’t sleep, I was snoring. I was done feeling ugly, being depressed, and I was done not being the mother to my son, that my mother was to me. I went to my doctor and told her, I was done. That I didn’t want pills to get skinny or surgery or anything like that; what I wanted was to learn how be healthy. Something that would help me lose the weight safely but at the same time, teach me to live healthy. Like I said, I ate pretty healthily; I knew I needed to exercise, but what is the right balance. Plus – was I really eating healthy?
My doctor prescribed a program and it was the blessing I needed. It is a medically supervised weight loss program – a balance of diet and exercise and my insurance covered it. They call it lifestyle modification – I would learn to live a healthy life with a proper diet for my body and exercise. I started the program October 2011. A year later, I have lost 92 pounds. I am almost to my goal weight of 150 pounds. I am not wearing women’s sizes. I am not in double digits. I run or swim five days a week and do weight training and other exercises. I get 30 minutes minimum exercise a day. I eat almost all the same foods I did before – but at much better portion sizes. I have two snacks and three meals a day. They say, “Never say Never”. “They” are right. I never thought I would wear a medium. I NEVER thought I would be a runner (even though I played soccer in high school…I hated running). I never thought I would be “skinny” and still have curves. Yet, here I am…
Through this program, I learned that my body “type” if you will, puts on bulk muscle, if I am not careful. I’m not a lean muscle person, or at least growing up, I did not muscle up that way. I was really strong. I’m not as strong as I was… but I’m working on being strong enough. I’m toning up. I know what balance of foods in my diet to eat to avoid the bulking up and keep my muscle leaner. I do not feel as if I have sacrificed my love of food. I feel like I found a happier and healthier me…who was inside me waiting to be found. I found my balance and through this discovery – I have found other areas in my life that needed work. I had truly fallen down the rabbit hole of depression – much in my life had gone awry. Now…things are different…better.
I now play with my son until HE is tired. We go on adventures in the mountains and around the neighborhood to get “exercise”. He knows that just as much as our bodies need fuel, we need to be active. I am as active with him as my mother was with me, if not more. My mother along with other women in my family struggled with their weight. I know my mother is beyond proud of me.
It is astonishing to me to see the transformation. I have put together a little picture timeline to show my journey. I hope in baring this to you all that it gives you the courage and determination to make a change to that one thing in your life that you feel you cannot. We are amazing creatures and we can do amazing things when we believe in ourselves. It is amazing what we can accomplish when we have the courage to take that first step. I would not be here without the overwhelming support of my family, my friends and especially my GG’s. Love you guys!
Happy New Year to all of you! And remember... a lot can be accomplished in just one year!
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