Kim Baccellia

Do you consider yourself “normal” or do you have exciting adventures, say with goddesses, for example? Even if you aren’t acquainted with gods or goddesses you can still have an adventure by reading Author Kim Baccellia’s latest novel GODDESSES CAN WAIT. And let me tell you, this author will take you on a wild adventure that you won’t soon forget.

Jordan Lake’s evening starts out dining with her family and best friend, Selena Garza, a simple family affair. Jordan is remembering her recent encounter with two Egyptian goddesses, that thankfully had a happy ending. Now, she just wants to be normal, if that was possible. When Jordan’s grandmother joins them for dinner with a gift for Jordan her life changes, however, and she soon finds herself on a flight to Paris, along with Selena and Jordan’s grandmother. Jordan is ecstatic. Images of Audrey Hepburn (her heroine), the River Seine, and macaroons dance in her head. But she also has an uneasy feeling. She can’t forget her encounter with the Goddess Hathorn, not so long ago. She doesn’t want a repeat.

As the girls explore Paris, while Grams takes care of some business, Jordan and Selena meet rude guys, eat yummy food, and discover surprises about Grams life. No doubt about it, they’re in a different world, which soon proves to be more than just the city of Paris. I won’t tell what happens to them, but it’s not quite what they expected.

Kim Baccellia has done a beautiful job with her characters, bringing them to life so that I worried when they kept getting into trouble. Would they get out of the situations they found themselves in? The author kept me guessing, which added to the suspense and enjoyment of the story.

I know very little about mythology, but by reading GODDESSES CAN WAIT and NO MORE GODDESSES, the first book in the series, I’ve learned a lot and find mythology interesting. Who doesn’t like gods and goddesses, whether good ones or bad ones? Ms. Baccellia writes with such detail that the characters, both goddesses and humans, came to life for me. I always like to have a good villain in a story, and we have them here.

Now I’m wondering what Jordan’s next adventure will be. And what would Audrey Hepburn think about the girls and their visit to Paris? In my mind, I picture Ms. Hepburn smiling. What do you think?

The author has written a story that not only teens but older readers, as well, will enjoy. GODDESSES CAN WAIT will make a nice addition to your personal library. I give it 4 and ½ stars, which doesn’t show up on the stars. I think it should. Happy Reading.… (altro)

You’ve heard the old saying “Be careful what you wish for; you may get it.” I’d like to add that you may get something entirely unexpected, also, something you wish you hadn’t wished for, especially when goddesses are involved.

In Author Kim Baccellia’s latest novel, NO MORE GODDESSESS, fantasy for MG/Tween readers, Jordan Lake dreams of Ethan Taylor, basketball star at McKnight High, inviting her to the Valentine’s Day dance, which is highly doubtful since she’s not a member of the “popular” crowd. The discovery of a bracelet at her grandma’s house, similar to the one Audrey Hepburn (her idol) wears in the movie Tessa’s Treasure, a diary, and Jordan’s sudden ability to see visions of what’s about to happen give Jordan hope. Maybe her wishes will come true, after all. The Egyptian Goddess Hathor and a cat called Bass may have other plans for Jordan, however. Only they know the truth.

NO MORE GODDESSES is a fun read about friendship, school rivalries between the popular kids and the regular kids, and wanting what we don’t have when what we really want is right in front of us. A little history about the actress Audrey Hepburn brought back memories for me and ought to interest the younger generation too. I enjoyed the bit of history about Egyptian goddesses. The action is fast paced, with seldom a dull moment. My favorite character is Andrew, who’s always there for Jordan, though she has her eyes set elsewhere. Isn’t that the way true life works?

Kim Baccellia has written a novel that should appeal to tween readers and adults, as well. The book would make a good addition to school libraries and classrooms for the historical aspect of Audrey Hepburn and Egypt. Fantasy, where characters are not always who/what they seem and keep the reader guessing the way NO MORE GODDESSES does, is always fun to read. So pick up a copy, relax, and enjoy.

###… (altro)

The concept of Crossed Out was definitely one that caught my eye. Stephanie's ability to help spirits cross over to the other side was fascinating enough alone, but the fact that she didn't really want this ability added that edge for me. From the very first page I watched as Stephanie tackled this "gift" of hers. I loved how Kim Baccellia pointed out Stephanie's very real feelings. Who wouldn't feel a bit confused and lost if you were constantly contacted by spirits?

Although I really adored Stephanie's character, I felt like there wasn't enough of an opportunity to get to know her very well in this story. Her development felt very rushed, and in fact by the time that I realized what was going on in her life I wasn't that invested in her struggle. I think Kim Baccellia did a great job of building Stephanie up as a high schooler and as a daughter, but I would have liked to see more attention paid to what she was on the inside. I like to be invested deeply in my characters so that I can support their struggles.

In the same respect, I felt like the overall story line was a bit rushed. There are a few key scenes in the book that are rushed through, and then mentioned later as important events. For one of these I was so confused that I had to go back and read the entire chapter before. I think there is a lot of promise in this story, and in this series, but that it just needs a little more polish. I for one am quite intrigued by Stephanie and her new found friend's abilities! I'd be on board to see what happens to them next.

Overall I think that Kim wrote a very original feeling and solid story, it just needs a bit more attention to detail. As I said I loved the concept and truthfully there is a lot to appreciate if you give it a read! I'll be looking out for more writing by Kim Baccellia and hope to see Stephanie back in another installment.… (altro)