Finished Reading “Mine” and Progressing Slowly

I have my good days and bad days. Today is leaning toward a bad day. Only because it’s laundry day and moving around and lifting stuff aggravates my chest (or rather, the area inside where they shoved in a camera for surgery). My incisions are healing fine. They don’t hurt. Not itching as much, either. But this one spot on my chest… yeah, that can hurt when I overdo it. And apparently it doesn’t take much for me to overdo it. Healing in that one spot is really progressing slowly.

I really hate the after effects of surgery.

But I do have some good news. I’m another step closer to publishing Ghostly Protector. I finally finished with the fixes and it’s back with my editor to re-read, making sure I, 1) fixed it okay and 2) didn’t screw something else up. When I get it back from her, then it’s off to my copy editor (actually, my daughter) to clean it up. I’ve decided not to put it up for a pre-order. Once it’s all finished and formatted and ready to go, I’ll just put it up for sale. I can’t judge when the book will be done, so instead of picking a date way far into the future, I’d rather have it available when it’s actually ready. I think my readers will appreciate that more, anyway.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 6

Dates read: February 11-23, 2024
Title: Mine
Year of publication: 2024
Author: J.R. Ward
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Suspense
Series: The Lair of the Wolven #3
# of Pages: 478
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book: Lydia knows time is running out. Daniel’s terminal diagnosis has doomed her to grief, and she just wants to spend as much time as she can with him. When his doctor goes missing, however, their secret lab’s location is compromised and suddenly she is at war with an enemy she doesn’t understand.
    As a former black ops soldier, Daniel is very familiar with the danger they’re in, and he’s determined to keep his beautiful wolven safe. This means he must turn to his former boss—and relying on a sympath for anything is a worst-case scenario on a good day. But what choice does he have?
    With Daniel’s sixth sense telling him there’s more to the kidnapping, he and Lydia must work with their allies to defend the underground facility. Little do they know that the sympath has something even more valuable offer them…but at what cost?
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: Nice ending to this trilogy. It took me awhile to read it but not because it was bad. I just had a lot of stuff going on. Today just seemed like a good day to finish it, since it’s laundry day and I need to rest between loads.

So… do you pre-order books? I rarely do (only if the book seller is offering some kind of sale or deal to pre-order the book). It’s not like I read the book as soon as I buy it (if only!), but then I guess I’m not the typical reader. In fact, I’m finally getting to my Dean Koontz collection. It’s been awhile since I read one of his books, but it certainly hasn’t stopped me from buying them. I got six of them to read (and I think I still have one in my B&N wish list).

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Finished Reading “When a Dragon Falls” and…Stuff

Apparently when I’m writing, I’m not reading as much. I got the edits back on Ghostly Protector and have been working on that. I can’t believe how close I am to getting that one published. It’ll be my 9th book. Whoo hoo!

But I’ve also had some medical issues…again. I had surgery on Jan 26th to remove the lymph node from my chest. That’s when they found some tissue behind the node (which is what the CT scan saw). The node came back normal, but the tissue came back as kidney cancer. My oncologist wants to put me on another drug, but I saw the side effects on that and need more answers. I see him on Tuesday. In the meantime, I’m a bit sore in the side and chest (also really itchy from the glue!). I’m getting around slowly, but at least I’m getting around. Eventually I’ll get back to some exercise. I really need to get back into that.

So my reading has slowed. So has my crochet. But my writing is continuing, so that’s a good thing. Haven’t started anything new yet, but I’ll get there. Just too much other stuff to do!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 5

Dates read: January 21 – February 9, 2024
Title: When a Dragon Falls
Year of publication: 2023
Author: Kerrelyn Sparks
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy Romance
Series: Embraced by Magic #4/The Embraced #7
# of Pages: 355
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book: Princess Lenushka of Norveshka prides herself on her courage. She’s faced down the doubters who think a woman dragon shifter is worth less than a man. She will marry to secure the support of her nobles—and ensure she’ll hold the Norveshki throne. A battle-hardened soldier, she’s prepared to destroy the Brotherhood of the Sun, who threaten all Aerthlan. But she can barely look at Bran Morris, the Raven. His dark, brooding beauty is off-limits for a princess who must wed for advantage. And he has far too many secrets of his own for Lennie to trust him with hers.
    Bran’s quest is for vengeance, against the Brotherhood monsters who killed his brother and abused his sisters. He can’t dream about the sharp-eyed woman warrior whose memory haunts him, not even when she appears to rescue him from an unknown dragon shifter. But when Lennie and Bran discover they’re Aerthlan’s last defense against a powerful, murderous mastermind, they can no longer afford to deceive each other—or themselves. And when a dragon’s passion is freed, anything is possible…
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: Took me a bit to get back into this world. I like the series. Don’t know why it takes me so long to remember past books. I blame it on my medication. Or old age. Or maybe the combination. This is a fun series, though. Highly recommend.

Weather has been really wonderful the last few days. Into the 60s today. I know winter isn’t over yet, but nothing wrong with enjoying the warm sunny weather while we got it!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

A Book I Couldn’t Finish Reading and Some Wonderful News

Made it home safely despite all the snow. Had over 4” of the stuff on our parked car, but I think it was two storms’ worth. Maybe. But it pretty much snowed all the way from Baltimore to Dayton and we made it without incident. Best kind of driving trips, right?

But that’s not my wonderful news. Nope, it has to do with my writing projects.

While on the cruise, I sent Ghostly Protector to my editor (boy, did that lift a weight off my shoulders—I never felt so free!). Which meant I was free to work on something else.

Now, I had a couple of projects that I started years before. One is in the Bitten by Love series. I stopped because I didn’t think what I had would cover a whole book. But a novella? Yeah, that seemed possible. So I opened up my document from four years ago and read the 15 pages I had written. Came upon a character I didn’t even remember writing about. But the bad thing about it is I had written something that contradicted what I had in Blind Temptation (at least, according to my notes). I had no way of checking while on the cruise, so I decided not to work on the novella. Instead, I went to my other project. My alien story. Just to see if I could get inspiration as to what the next book in that series should be.

The last time I had looked at Alien Desires was back in 2018. Didn’t publish it because I thought it was a mess. Well, apparently I had fixed it sometime ago (don’t remember when) and what I read, I LOVED. This book is ready for an editor! Not only that, I got an idea of how to start the next book.

So, the wonderful news is that I’ll have two new books published in 2024 (after a 4-year drought).  Whoo hoo!

Now for the book I couldn’t finish reading…

Here’s what I attempted to read since my last update:

Book 4

Dates read: January 16-21, 2024
Title: Hidden
Year of publication: 2021
Author: Fern Michaels
Genre: No idea
Series: Lost and Found #1
# of Pages: 368
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Free from B&N
Blurb from Goodreads: At first glance, few would guess that Luna and Cullen Bodman are siblings. Cullen is efficient and serious while his younger sister Luna is a free spirit. When the two launch their furniture restoration shop/café—an offshoot of the family’s longtime antique business—in an up-and-coming arts center, little do they know their unique talents may be their only defense against a dangerous betrayal.
    When Luna gets a strange sense about a piece Cullen just acquired, the two find themselves uniting to solve a mystery that has far-reaching consequences—never knowing there are some who’ll stop at nothing to claim what they believe is theirs. No matter what, Luna and Cullen know they can rely on each other—and this time, their lives may depend on it…
Recommend: No
My thoughts: I got as far as page 47 and had to stop (and I rarely do not finish a book). Not worth my time. If this is a mystery, I couldn’t tell. It certainly isn’t a suspense. All I ever got was back story, and boring back story at that. So glad I didn’t waste any money on this one. I don’t usually mark DNF books as books read, but in this case, I feel like I wasted precious reading time trying to get through this one and said, I’m marking it READ!

This week is one busy week. Tomorrow I get a colonoscopy (which means I gotta prepare for it today—ugh!). Tuesday I have a pre-op appointment and an ultrasound on my thyroid. Wednesday I have my treatment and a dentist appointment to get a crown on my molar. And Friday I have surgery to remove a lymph node from my chest (because the biopsy I had was inconclusive). But hey! I’m excited about my writing. I think that wins!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

No Books, No Surgery, But Pictures!

I was supposed to have surgery yesterday. That's been cancelled...indefinitely.

On Thursday, the 6th, I had my pre-op appointment and CT scan. Results from the scan showed other spots had grown (whereas only one spot was growing the past year) and a new spot appeared. Apparently, the CT scan at UC Health is more detailed than the one on the base. Or I just had some active growth since July.

In any case, there wasn't any reason to have the surgery to remove one spot when all the others seem active, too. And they aren't all in the same area. Some are in the other lung.

Today I see my oncologist to see when I start immunotherapy. Hubby wants it to start tomorrow. We'll see.

I haven't finished reading the book I started last week, so here are some pictures from my trip out west. See, I DID remember!

Yellowstone

Yellowstone

Yellowstone

Yellowstone

Yellowstone

Yellowstone really surprised me. When I was there back in 1970, I only saw Old Faithful. I never realized how much it resembled another planet! I did see a lot of bison there, but no bears. I really thought I'd see at least one bear!

Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon

I've heard of Bryce Canyon before, but never realized how huge that place is. I'm so glad I was able to experience it.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park

Where you see Bryce from above, you experience Zion from below. Driving through the tunnel was an experience, too. They had to stop the traffic on the other end so our bus could drive down the middle of the road. It was too tall for one side. 

Grand Canyon (donkey excursion--looks like fun!)

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon (if you zoom you might be able to see some people on those trails!)

I've been to the Grand Canyon three times before this trip. We had planned on taking the helicopter through the canyon, but all flights were cancelled due to weather. I was very disappointed and don't know if I'll ever get another chance at it.

Our tour group at Zion.

I had a lot of fun on the coach tour and would do another.

Beach in Santa Barbara (along the Shoreline Park walking path)

Me in Pismo Beach

Sand Dunes at Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach

Me at Morro Bay

While in Santa Barbara, vising my mother, we also took some walks along the beaches. Pismo Beach is about an hour north of SB. Morro Bay another 30 min. I really love Pismo Beach. It's HUGE! 

Hope you enjoy the photos. I should have a book read by next Wednesday.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Another Surgery in October

I saw the thoracic surgeon last week and she’s all for me having the surgery to remove the tumor on my right lung. Said it’s small (8mm) and in an easy spot to remove (yay?). I still have to pass the pulmonary test (in Sep), but since I don’t have COPD or any breathing problems, I was assured I’d pass it.

So… I’m having surgery (#3 for the year) on October 11. Should only spend one night in the hospital, too. Will this be the end of my surgeries? I sure hope so!

Trying to make appointments for the surgery and for the procedures needed prior to the surgery has been interesting. We’re gone for most of September and don’t get back home until Oct 5. I was able to make the pulmonary appointment for Sep 9, just barely squeezing it between two trips. But I’m glad I was able to wait until October for the surgery. Now I can go see my mom!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 23

Dates read: July 29 – August 8, 2022
Title: Knight Awakening
Year of publication: 2020
Author: Rebecca Zanetti
Genre: Apocalyptic romantic suspense
Series: Scorpius Syndrome #6
# of Pages: 330
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from the book: The world has changed. Any rules that might’ve been in place before the Scorpius bacterium ripped through civilization and decreased its population are no longer in place. Obsession and survival are the new reality. So, Marcus Knight, after a hellish time in captivity that stole most of his memory and all of his soul, has one focus, and that’s keeping Dr. Penelope Kim safe in the aftermath. She risked her life to save him once, and she’s all that matters. For months, he’s kept his distance, protecting her from afar, because he knows that one touch—one sigh—one kiss—from her will never be enough.
    Penny Kim is one of the few doctors still living, and she alone holds the key to ensuring the human race continues. Several of her friends are pregnant, and the clock is ticking down on their survival. Her days are filled with experiments and hope, while her nights are consumed with visions and dreams of the hard-bodied and powerful soldier who’s made her safety his one and only mission. She should be wary of him; she should be terrified of him. Yet all she feels is an unreal craving for his touch that gets stronger every day. Life is short, and she’s unwilling to wait, unaware of the danger already hunting them both. Some risks are worth it, even in this new and dangerous world.
My thoughts: Enjoyed this one better than the last. And it’s the last in the series, which is very clear. I liked how it wrapped up.

I’m still walking every morning I can and noticed that my pace has increased in speed, despite the hot and humid mornings. I’m thinking that clip is really doing the job! Or maybe it’s the beta blockers. Who knows? I just know I’ve been able to push it and not feel like I’m dying out there. And the weather hasn’t been all that comfortable. Cooler weather is in the forecast (with less humidity), but I doubt I’m here to enjoy it. We leave for NJ on Friday for a family reunion on Saturday. Lots of driving and very little walking. But I enjoy the trip and seeing my cousins. I try to go every year (or at least every year they hold it).

So… do you attend family reunions? If so, do you have to travel far for them?  

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Update, but not with Reading

My reading has really slowed down. And I feel like I’m reading almost every day, but maybe I’m not or it’s not for a long period of time when I am reading? I can’t blame it on writing, because I haven’t done that in awhile, either (and I really thought I was progressing there…). I can probably blame it on my crochet projects, but I think that’s slowing down now, too, so maybe my reading will pick back up. Or I just need to finish this series I’m reading and pick up something a little more fast paced (with less alpha heroes). But I’m determined to finish the series, even if it has slowed my reading down.

Anyway… I do have some news. I saw my oncologist on the 19th. He kind of surprised me. He recommends I have surgery to remove the spot on my lung.

Surgery.

Again.

While that doesn’t exactly thrill me, the fact that I would only have to be on the immunotherapy drugs for a year after the surgery (6 injections total), instead of forever without the surgery (once every 4 weeks) does sound promising. First, I have to get clearance from my cardiac surgeon (to see whether or not I can handle another surgery with my heart valve), who I see on Aug 2. I already have an appointment with the cardiothoracic surgeon on Aug 4.

Man, I’m learning about all the different types of surgeons!

I had first decided to get a biopsy done in August (before Dragon Con and our vacation in Sept) to determine whether I would need surgery. But since my oncologist is like, 99% sure the spot on my lung IS cancer, I later thought it was kind of stupid to have the biopsy since it looked like surgery would happen anyway. Of course the surgeon could have other ideas/options. I’ll find out on Aug 4.

In any case… my oncologist said he’s okay with me waiting until October to have the surgery. I really didn’t want to mess up my upcoming trips and he keeps stating that there isn’t any hurry in what I decide to do (the spot didn’t grow between April & July).

This was good news. We have a tour through five national parks in September that starts in Jackson Hole, WY and ends in Las Vegas. I really wanted to drive from LV to see my mom in Santa Barbara, but we couldn’t make any plans until I knew I was safe to travel. Well, I’m safe to travel and we’ll be able to see my mom after the tour. I’m really happy about that! We got the flights and rental cars booked. Finally!

So… that’s what’s going on with me. And I was really thinking my surgery days were over. Guess not.

 

Stacy

Reading Update and It’s Done!

I got my heart valve fixed! Doctor said he couldn’t even hear the murmur anymore. Turned out better than he even expected. That’s good. The bad part… I went into Afib  toward the end of the procedure. Because of that, I have to take blood thinners for 30 days and wear a heart monitor during that time. What a pain! I just hope the Afib was a quirk and I don’t have a permanent issue that requires me to take blood thinners forever. Just have to wait and see.

In the meantime, I can’t drive for 14 days and I can’t lift anything heavier than 5 pounds. Most of that is due to how the procedure was conducted. Basically, the hole in my groin area. Gotta make sure it heals correctly.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 19

Dates read: June 12-20, 2022
Title: Justice Ascending
Year of publication: 2017
Author: Rebecca Zanetti
Genre: Apocalyptic romantic suspense
Series: Scorpius Syndrome #3
# of Pages: 333
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from the book: Before surviving the Scorpius bacterium, Tace Justice was a good ole Texas cowboy who served his country and loved his mama. After Scorpius, the world became dark, dangerous, and deadly—and so did he. The Vanguard medic is stronger, faster, and smarter than before, but he’s lost the line between right and wrong. His passion is absolute, and when he focuses it on one woman, there’s no turning back for either of them…
    Sami Steel has been fighting to survive right alongside Tace, convincing the Vanguard soldiers she’s one of them. In truth, Sami is a former hacker turned government agent who worked at The Bunker, where scientists stored both contaminants and cures. Only she knows the location, and she’s not telling. Yet when sexual fire explodes between her and Tace, she’ll face even that hell again to save him.
My thoughts: Tace didn’t start out as an Alpha male until he contracted Scorpius in Book one. Apparently, one of the effects of Scorpius (if you survived and are a male), is becoming an Alpha male. Well, that’s what I see. But I enjoyed this book. Lots of action and suspense. And love. Can’t forget the love.

I don’t know how long it’ll take for me to recover from the surgery. I’m encouraged to walk, but apparently not as far as I usually do (around 2 miles a day). The temps are going up again, so it’s probably a good thing not to walk that far anyway. The mornings aren’t even cool when it’s been in the 90s the day before. So I won’t push it.

So… are you roasting on this second day of summer? We are!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and I Have a Date!

So… June 20th. That’s the day of my cardiac procedure/surgery. On that day, the doctor will insert (via the vein in my groin) a mitral valve clip (called a mitraclip) on my mitral valve. The clip is supposed to help the valve close so blood doesn’t continue to flow backward (which is causing my heart to work harder than it should). Yesterday I got all the pre-op stuff finished. As long as they don’t find anything wrong, I’m good to go. And I won’t hold my breath about anything going wrong. I got this far last year when the surgery was called off. Hoping not to experience that again.

After the procedure/surgery, I’ll spend the night at the hospital and expect to be released the next day (after an echocardiogram). Yeah, I’m a bit nervous. More nervous than I’ve been before any of my other surgeries. Will I feel different? Will I feel the device? I really hope I don’t feel the device. I just want to feel normal again.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 18

Dates read: June 1-11, 2022
Title: Shadow Falling
Year of publication: 2016
Author: Rebecca Zanetti
Genre: Apocalyptic romantic suspense
Series: Scorpius Syndrome #2
# of Pages: 349
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Purchased used
Blurb from the book: Before the Scorpius Syndrome tore through North America and nearly wiped out the population, Vivienne Wellington was the FBI’s best profiler. The bacteria got her anyway. But she survived. She recovered. And when she woke up from a drug-nightmare of captivity, her trust in her fellow man had gone from shaky at best to nonexistent. Her mysterious rescuer wants to convince her he’s the exception. But no matter how tempting he is, with his angel’s eyes and devil’s tongue, Vinnie knows she shouldn’t trust him.
    If the FBI were still around they would rate Raze Shadow as one of the bad guys. His military training can’t wipe out his association with the Mercenaries, the most feared gang in a thousand miles. His loyalties are compromised. He won’t even tell Vinnie his real name. But there’s no FBI in the new America of fear and firepower, only instinct and risk. And the way his arms wrap around her tells its own story. Whatever else Raze is concealing, he can’t hide his desire…
My thoughts: Lots of alpha males in this series. I’m not a fan of those, but I liked this book and I’m enjoying the series. Curious to see how it all ends.

I’m way behind in my reading. Four books behind in reaching my goal. I think I’ll blame it on my crochet. I do seem to be doing that a lot. I should be blaming it on my writing. Maybe that will come later. Fingers crossed.

I thought I might get some reading done on our trip to Michigan (to visit friends), but with my surgery, that trip has been delayed (we were due to leave on the 22nd). If that’s the only trip that gets delayed, I’m good with that!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and It’s Happening Soon

I talked to 2nd cardiologist about the mitra clip yesterday. I’m a perfect candidate for the procedure and he wants to get it done in the next 2-3 weeks. Yay! I’ll be glad when I get an actual date, though. But it’s happening. And soon. I’m so happy!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 17

Dates read: May 23-31, 2022
Title: When a Princess Proposes
Year of publication: 2022
Author: Kerrelyn Sparks
Genre: Fantasy romance
Series: Embraced by Magic #6
# of Pages: 373
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from the book: All Princess Eviana needs is an escape. Possessed of an unfortunate and unusual Embraced gift, which she’s been banned from using, she required no training. Now, her overprotective parents want her to wed. As a result, the palace is crammed with obnoxious noblemen… Until Quentin, the enigmatic eagle shifter and royal spy, maneuvers several of the unsuitable suitors into revealing their most embarrassing secrets before the court. Finally, Eviana has an excuse to free herself. If only her family knew the blow that’s shaken her: golden-eyed Quentin’s refusal to let her near…
    Heroic, bur low born, Quentin’s infatuation with Eviana is as inappropriate as it is unshakable. He must keep away from her, for his own sake. But after a series of suspicious deaths, and the princess’s narrow escape from kidnapping, Quentin knows that only together can they expose the danger stalking Aerthlan’s Embraced. On foot, in disguise, they’ll need trust and quick wits to uncover the vicious conspiracy closing around them. But finding the truth might break down their own defenses as well…
My thoughts: Funny, thrilling, and romantic. Loved it.

I love being able to see the end of all this heart stuff. Means I can start making plans again. Hubby wants to plan another cruise (our next one isn’t until January), but I’ll just be happy to take the trip we have scheduled in September. And maybe visit my mom after. Oh, I still have to get treatments for my cancer, but they’ll be able to work around our schedule. I just love being able to see an end to it.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Today’s the Day, Sort of

Today I have an appointment with one of my cardiac surgeons. Apparently, I have two. Surgeon #1 is who I would use if I have open heart surgery to repair/replace my leaky heart valve. Surgeon #2 is who I would use if I’m a good candidate for the mitra clip. But I don’t see #2 until the 31st. Frankly, I hope I’m a candidate for the clip. No cutting or breaking bones involved!

So maybe I find out if I’m a candidate today? That’s what I’m hoping. And that second appointment is just to let me know what to expect. But at least today’s a start on getting SOME answers.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 16

Dates read: May 11-22, 2022
Title: Quicksilver
Year of publication: 2022
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: Horror
Series: N/A
# of Pages: 356
Paper or plastic: Hardcover
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from the book: Quinn Quicksilver was born a mystery—abandoned at three days old on a desert highway in Arizona. Raised in a orphanage, never knowing his parents, Quinn had a happy if unexceptional life. Until the day of “strange magnetism.” It compelled him to drive out to the middle of nowhere. It helped him find a coin worth a lot of money. And it practically saved his life when two government agents showed up in the diner in pursuit of him. Now Quinn is on the run from those agents and who knows what else, fleeing for his life.
    During a shoot-out at a forlorn dude ranch, he finally meets his destined companions: Bridget Rainking, a beauty as gifted in foresight as she is with firearms, and her grandpa Sparky, a romance novelist with an unusual past. Bridget knows what it’s like to be Quinn. She’s hunted, too. The only way to stay alive is to keep moving.
    Barreling through the Sonoran Desert, the formidable trio is impelled by that same inexplicable magnetism toward the inevitable. With every deeply disturbing mile, something sinister is in the rearview—an enemy that is more than a match for Quinn. Even as he discovers within himself resources that are every bit as scary.
My thoughts: I enjoyed this well enough. The ending kind of seemed like it was the beginning of a series, but then again… maybe not. Who knows! I just wasn’t enthralled with the ending although the main story was resolved…I guess. I still have questions.

By the way, I’m three books behind schedule in my goal of reading 50 books this year. I’ve been busy crocheting instead. I get these spurts, what can I say? Sometimes I’m in the mood to read, sometimes I’m in the mood to crochet. I’m just waiting on getting that mood to write. Of course, maybe I should just not wait for the mood and just get to it. Easier said than done, huh?

I’m hoping today’s news will help in getting to that motivation to write.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

This is Where I Am Right Now

No book to report this week, but I do have news.

Saw my oncologist on Monday. The spot on my lung is growing. Since I have metastatic kidney cancer (apparently, I will always have this), the odds are high that the spot is kidney cancer. It could be metastatic breast cancer, or even lung cancer. They wouldn’t know without a biopsy, but since I’m being treated to keep from getting metastatic breast cancer and I don’t smoke (or aren’t near smokers), there’s no reason to put me through a biopsy when treatment will tell the answer. And yes, there is a treatment for metastatic kidney cancer. One that has a 63% chance of putting the tumor(s) into remission or dormancy.

Unfortunately… there’s this issue with my heart valve. I was looking for the go ahead to have the surgery. Well, I got it, just not the way I had hoped. My oncologist would prefer I had it fixed before I start treatment. He doesn’t want to start treatment, then pause it for surgery.

Oh, and this treatment? It’s immunotherapy given via IV every two-four weeks. And I can expect to have it the rest of my life. Fun, huh? But hey, if it will prolong my life…

Now I just have to hope that however the cardiac surgeon goes about fixing my leaky heart valve that I won’t need anti-rejection meds after. Because if I do, all that therapy treatment is null and void. And I don’t want that (and neither does my oncologist). I really hope I have options.

I started the somewhat slow process about getting my valve fixed. It took months before I was able to even see the surgeon last April, but I’m hoping my case will be pushed through more quickly this time. Yeah, I really don’t want to cancel any of our trips, but I also would like to start the treatment as soon as I can. In the meantime, I’m scheduled for another CT scan in July so my oncologist can monitor the growth.

This all sucks, you know? But hey, what can I do about it? It is what it is. I’m just thankful that my leaky heart valve was the catalyst for finding out what I have going on now. If not for that, I’d be walking around unaware that cancer was slowly killing me.

That’s a scary thought, huh?

You’re probably thinking that all of this is why I haven’t finished reading a book this week. Well, you’d be wrong. It’s just the book I’m reading has numerous grammatical errors that it keeps pulling me out of the story. If a copy editor or proof reader was used, they didn’t do a very good job. But I’m determined to finish the story; it’s just taking me a while. But I’ll have it finished by next week. I’m sure. I got a book in a series I love waiting for me to finish so I can get to it next!

So… Do you think it’s bad I have to motivate myself to finish reading a book? Would you stick with a book with numerous mistakes? Or do you not notice mistakes when you read? I found that once I started writing, I’m more critical with my reading. Before I wrote my first book, mistakes didn’t bother me, if I noticed them at all.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading and Surgery Update

I had planned on posting last week before I left for the hospital Tuesday morning, but went and forgot. Can I blame it on the Olympics? I’ve been obsessed with them (men’s figure skating and women’s hockey were on) and other things just aren’t getting done. Except for my crocheting. I’m still crocheting. But I can do that and watch the Olympics.

Anyway, surgery was a success, if not a little longer than planned. Seemed my organs were a bit “sticky” on the left side of my body (as told to me by my doctor), where they had no issues on the right side back in May. I asked if the radiation I had on that side (breast cancer treatment in 2017/18) could have been the reason. She’d forgotten about that, I guess, and said it was most likely the reason. So something that should have taken two hours took closer to five. And… they nicked my spleen. Had to get the bleeding stopped before they could continue, too. But no lasting damage was done (thank goodness). I ended up staying in the hospital a day longer than planned since I was feeling nauseous at times (from the anesthesia, I’m sure).

You know, I really hate those beds in the hospitals. They are NOT comfortable. Especially when you’ve had your abdomen cut on. I was so happy to finally sleep in my own bed on Thursday.

FYI: They're pretty sure they got all the cancer, but we won't know for sure until my next MRI. I'm hopeful!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 5

Dates read: January 26 - February 3, 2022
Title: The Other Emily
Year of publication: 2021
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: Suspense
Series: N/A
# of Pages: 352
Paper or plastic: Hardcover
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from the book: A decade ago, Emily Carlino vanished after her car broke down on a California highway. She was presumed to be one of serial killer Ronny Lee Jessups’s victims whose remains were never found.
    Writer David Thorne still hasn’t recovered from losing the love of his life, or from the guilt of not being there to save her. Since then, he’s sought closure any way he can. He even visits regularly with Jessup in prison, desperate for answers about Emily’s final hours so he may finally lay her body to rest. Then David meets Madison Sutton, beguiling, playful, and keenly aware of all David has lost. But what really takes his breath away is that everything about Maddison, down to her kisses, is just like Emily. As the fantastic become credible, David’s obsession grows, Maddison’s mysterious past deepens—and terror escalates.
    Is she Emily? Or an irresistible dead ringer? Either way, the ultimate question is the same: What game is she playing? Whatever the risk in finding out, David’s willing to take it for this precious second chance. It’s been ten years since he’s felt this inspired, this hopeful, this much in love…and he’s afraid.
My thoughts: I can always count on Dean Koontz to entertain me regardless of what turn his books take. I guess I can always count on him to surprise me, too. And yes, the ending did surprise me.  

Today would have been my father’s 97th birthday. He had hoped to make it to 100, but alas, only made it to 92. I still miss him.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Surgery Results

So... the results of my surgery came back. It was kidney cancer. While that sounds like a bad thing, it isn't in my case. Bad would have been metastatic breast cancer, and it wasn't that, so that's GOOD!

At my appointment, my urologist said that my oncologist (do I SEE enough doctors???) wanted to do a biopsy of the fatty tissue on my left adrenal gland (my tumor was on my right kidney). She was attending the tumor board that afternoon and would let me know what to expect next.

By the way, I also have this nodule on my thyroid that my primary care physician wants biopsied. My urologist thought that I might be able to have both biopsies at the same time.

Well, my urologist called me later that day and said she was able to talk with the radiologist who actually read my CT scan and he suggested that I have an MRI instead of a biopsy, because he was fairly certain it was just fatty tissue (a fibro abnoma kind of thing). My MRI is scheduled for July 7.

I will still need to get the thyroid looked at, so I'm in the process of scheduling that. I need to see an endocrinologist off base, so it's taking longer than usual. But... the bloodwork on my thyroid doesn't indicate anything unusual, so it's most likely NOT cancer (but hey, with me, you can't be too sure anymore). 

Have I ever told you how much I hate dealing with insurance? Granted, we have an awesome plan (Humana Military/Tricare), but they aren't the easiest to deal with. That's why I prefer to keep everything on base (and a big reason we moved close to one) -- NO PAPERWORK!

My back is still being a pain (literally), but not so bad that I can't move around (I just move slowly at times). I'm trying not to live on motrin and I have been walking in the morning (about a mile each day). No pain while doing that, so that's good. I've decided to just stick with going around the block and not stretching it out further. Not until my back stops hurting. And maybe after the glue comes off my incisions. 

So... that's the news for now. Thought I'd share it now instead of wait until Wednesday. Have a great weekend!

Stacy

Reading Update and Kindle Unlimited

I put my Bitten by Love series into Kindle Unlimited because I was under the impression that paranormal romances do well there and that Amazon favors those books (somehow).

Plus, you get to put your book on sale during a Kindle countdown. So I did that with My Sunny Vampire (reduced the price to 99 cents). The only advertising I did was the same advertising I did on Amazon (although I did mention the sale here and on Facebook), because I was also under the impression that my book would be featured on Amazon as a countdown deal.

I never saw the feature. And that countdown only generated 2 sales.

TWO. SALES.

I think if I make my books EXCLUSIVE to Amazon, they should do more. Else, why stay exclusive?

Which means in July I will take the Bitten by Love out of KU and make the series wide again. Heck, the KU reads I’m getting really aren’t all that significant, either. Being exclusive isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #31

Dates read: May 25-June 1, 2021
Title: The Reluctant Amazon
Year of publication: 2012/2021
Author: Sandy James
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Alliance of the Amazons Book 1
# of Pages: 274
Paper or plastic: Nook book
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Goodreads: The last thing Rebecca Massee expects on her wedding day is to go from jilted kindergarten teacher to Amazonian Earth warrior. But when she causes an earthquake after her groom says I don't, she discovers that not only does she possess incredible powers, she is one of four lost chosen sisters who must fight to keep humanity safe from rogue gods and demons. Luckily she has help: ruggedly handsome Scottish warrior Artair MacKay, her protector and teacher.
    An immortal, Artair has trained countless warriors for more than four hundred years. He understands Rebecca's confusion at the new world she's been thrust into and worries she is too emotionally vulnerable, but that doesn't stop his growing feelings for the beautiful and fearless woman.
    When an evil force threatens to destroy the Amazons, Rebecca must claim her full powers--but they come at a cost. Can she sacrifice the man she loves if it means saving the world?
My thoughts: I had trouble getting into this book, which I kind of blame on my surgery. But if I were reading a book from one of my favorite authors would that have made a difference? See… I’m not sure. There is only a minor cliff-hanger, which I expected since it’s a series, but otherwise, it has a satisfied ending. If I really liked the Amazons, I might pick up the next one, but none of them piqued my interest. Doesn’t mean they won’t pique yours. If you’re looking for a different kind of paranormal romance, it won’t hurt to give this one a try.

So… I’m doing fairly well after surgery. I’m able to control what little pain I have with Tylenol or Ibuprofen (I haven’t touched the narcotics the doctor gave me). Unfortunately, I’ll have to wait a little longer to find out what kind of cancer I had, since the doctor won’t get the results until 7-10 days after surgery. Bugger.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Today’s the Big Day

Today is my surgery day. Since I’m posting this the night before, I can’t tell you how well it went. Only that I have to report to surgery at 6:30am.

I won’t have my computer, so unless I’m able to comment via my phone (and last time I tried to do that I ran into issues—which always seems to happen with my phone), don’t expect to hear from me until after I get home (which I hope will be Thursday, but could very well be Friday).

Well, unless you follow me on Facebook. I will have access to that.

Of course, who knows how “with it” I’ll be after a 2-4 hour surgery. I’m sure I’ll want to do a lot of sleeping. Although… the Pens play at 6:30pm. If the hospital gets NBC Sports Network, I’ll have it on to watch the game. And I’ll definitely try to stay awake!

Go Pens!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #29

Dates read: May 17-21, 2021
Title: The Slaughtered Lamb
Year of publication: 2020
Author: Seana Kelly
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Sam Quinn, Book 1
# of Pages: 272
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Gift from friend
Blurb from book: Welcome to The Slaughtered Lamb Bookstore and Bar. I’m Sam Quinn, the werewolf book nerd in charge. I run my business by one simple rule: Everyone needs a good book and a stiff drink, be they vampire, wicche, demon, or fae. No wolves, though. Ever. I have my reasons.
    I serve the supernatural community of San Francisco. We’ve been having some problems lately. Okay, I’m the one with the problems. The broken body of a female werewolf washed up on my doorstep. What makes sweat pool at the base of my spine, though, is realizing the scars she bears are identical to the ones I conceal. After hiding for years, I’ve been found.
    A protection I’ve been relying on is gone. While my wolf traits are strengthening steadily, the loss is leaving my mind vulnerable to attack. Someone is ensnaring me in horrifying visions intended to kill. Clive, the sexy vampire Master of the City, discovers how to pull me out and designates himself my personal bodyguard. He’s grumpy about it, but that kiss is telling a different story. A change is taking place. It has to. The bookish bartender must become the fledgling badass.
    I’m a survivor. I’ll fight fang and claw to protect myself and the ones I love. And let’s face it, they have it coming.
My thoughts: Some might call this a paranormal romance, but I don’t label first person stories in that genre. For a romance, I need the details from both points of view. So I’m calling this an urban fantasy with romantic elements. And for that, it was a very good story. I enjoyed it.

Book #30

Dates read: May 22-24, 2021
Title: The Dead Don’t Drink at Lafitte’s
Year of publication: 2021
Author: Seana Kelly
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Sam Quinn, Book 2
# of Pages: 326
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Gift from friend
Blurb from book: I’m Sam Quinn, the werewolf book nerd owner of the Slaughtered Lamb Bookstore and Bar. Things have been busy lately. While the near-constant attempts on my life have ceased, I now have a vampire gentleman caller. I’ve been living with Clive and the rest of his vampires for a few weeks while the Slaughtered Lamb is being rebuilt. It’s going about as well as you’d expect.
    My mother was a wicche and long dormant abilities are starting to make themselves known. If I’d had a choice, necromancy wouldn’t have been my top pick, but it’s coming in handy. A ghost warns me someone is coming to kill Clive. When I rush back to the nocturne, I find vamps from New Orleans readying an attack. One of the benefits of vampires looking down on werewolves is no one expects much of me. They don’t expect it right up until I take their heads.
    Now, Clive and I are setting out for New Orleans to take the fight back to the source. Vampires are masters of the long game. Revenge plots are often decades, if not centuries, in the making. We came expecting one enemy, but quickly learn we have darker forces scheming against us. Good thing I’m the secret weapon they never see coming.
My thoughts: Lots of action in this book. Very entertaining.

I always seem to have lots of news on those posts that have more than one book read. Today is no different.

My Sunny Vampire is on sale at Amazon for the Kindle for $.99 until June 1st. If you have a friend who likes paranormal romances and reads on a Kindle (or Kindle app), let them know about this deal. I call it the Memorial Day/Surgery Day sale. Here’s the link:

https://www.amazon.com/Sunny-Vampire-Bitten-Love-Book-ebook/dp/B0769MBPWQ/

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update, LLS2021, and Surgery News

Do you miss attending book conventions? Are you ready to go to one again? Well, one is still open for registrations, and it’s not virtual! Literary Love Savannah 2021: Summerween is being held August 4-8, 2021 at the Savannah Marriott (right there on the river!). The convention is $200 (plus fees) and includes 5 meals, as well as parties, panels, and book signings. Rooms cost $167/night (get a friend to go with you and you can share a room). It’s quite a deal and tons of fun, that’s if you like to talk to readers and authors about books! Gotta hurry, though. Registration closes on the 25^th (and you’ll need to book the room, too, but won’t have to pay that until you arrive). Here’s the link: LiteraryLove Savannah 2021: Summerween Tickets, Wed, Aug 4, 2021 at 7:00 PM |Eventbrite

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #28

Dates read: May 10-16, 2021
Title: Lover Unveiled
Year of publication: 2021
Author: J.R. Ward
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood #19
# of Pages: 495
Paper or plastic: Hardback
How obtained: Borrowed from daughter who purchased new
Blurb from book: Sahvage has been living under the radar for centuries—and he has every intention of staying “dead and buried” But when a civilian female sucks him into her dangerous battle with an evil as ancient as time, his protective side overrides his common sense.
    Mae has lost everything, and desperation sets her on a collision course with fate. Determined to reverse a tragedy, she goes where mortals should fear to tread—and comes face-to-face with the Brotherhood’s new enemy. She also discovers a love she never expected to find with Sahvage, but there can be no future for them.
    Knowing they will part, the two band together to fight against what Mae unknowingly unleashed—as the Brotherhood closes in to reclaim one of their damned, and evil vows to destroy them all….
My thoughts: Another series I absolutely love. It’s like fuel for my muse. And it worked. I’m back at my own book. Yay!

I realized the other day that I failed to tell you the results of my last doctor appointment. Well… I’m having surgery on the 26^th to remove the tumor from my kidney. It’s situated in a way that the doctor believes she can remove it and save the kidney! I was happy to hear this news. I won’t know what kind of cancer it is until after surgery though. If it’s kidney cancer, I may be done (although I still have some other spots that need to be monitored) and can start planning the heart surgery (again). If it’s from my breast cancer (meaning it traveled to another organ), then I’ll probably need chemo. Let’s hope for the first, okay?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading and Health Update

On Monday I saw the urologist. That spot on my kidney? Turns out to be a tumor, and it’s most likely cancer (mainly due to its size: 7.9cm).

I get another CT scan on May 3 (moved up from the 7th—yay!) and can expect surgery sometime after that. Either to remove the tumor or the whole kidney. And if it’s cancer, I can expect chemo.

It’s all so unreal right now. I mean, I went in hoping to get my leaky valve fixed and they discover a tumor in the process. I’m glad it was caught, just wish I didn’t have it.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #24

Dates read: April 18-23, 2021
Title: Unlocking the Ex-Army Doc’s Heart
Year of publication: 2020
Author: Juliette Hyland
Genre: Contemporary romance
Series: Harlequin LP Medical Book 1104
# of Pages: 149
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Purchased new
Blurb from Goodreads: The Arctic Circle's remote tranquility made it the perfect place for ex-army doc and former child star Annie Masters to open her clinic. But her cherished anonymity is ruined when celebrity surgeon Rafe Bradstone arrives in town! Seeing that she uses her work as a safe haven, dynamic Rafe seems determined to show her what she's missing out on. And it's working... She's beginning to imagine a future--with him!
My thoughts: A fun, although short, read. Then again, it is a Harlequin book. They aren’t known for lengthy (most of the time). If you love contemporary romance, give this book a chance. You might find a new author to read!

Book #25

Dates read: April 24-27, 2021
Title: Midnight Unleashed
Year of publication: 2017
Author: Lara Adrian
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Midnight Breed #15.5
# of Pages: 110
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Purchased new
Blurb from Goodreads: For Breed vampire Trygg, a menacing former assassin and the ultimate loner, duty is everything...until his solo mission to destroy a powerful enemy earns him an unwanted partner in the form of Tamisia, a beautiful, ice-hot immortal who ignites a flame in his cold heart, and his blood.
    Banished from her Atlantean colony, disgraced immortal Tamisia longs for a chance to redeem herself and return home where she belongs. Her work at a Rome women's shelter has given Sia purpose, but when a break-in results in a brutal killing, her quest for answers puts her in the middle of the hunt for a dangerous enemy of the Order--and brings her up against one of the deadliest of their Breed warrior members, the Gen One vampire, Trygg.
    A former Hunter enslaved to the commands of a madman, Trygg has devoted his life to the Order. Duty is his only master now, until an interfering beauty inserts herself into his investigation. The last thing Trygg wants is a partner in his mission, but Sia will not be denied--nor will the fierce desire she stokes in him. Soon the warrior who needs no one is craving the only woman he should not desire, unleashing a powerful hunger in his cold heart, and in his blood.
My thoughts: I enjoyed this. Got me back into the storyline, especially since I have #17 ready to read! I already read #16, but these novellas tend to stand on their own, which is a good thing.

Happy Reading!

Stacy