As of today, my book is available for pre-order!!!
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Almost two years ago today, I quit my job at Dell. It’s hard to believe that back then, I was getting on conference calls, worrying about Gantt charts, figuring out reorgs, and spending all my time in Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint. Don’t get me wrong, there were seasons when I absolutely loved what I did. But ultimately, it came down to a choice:
Would I leave the good for the great?
I knew I was made to be a writer. I’ve known it since I was sixteen. But after so many years slipping by with little progress being made toward that dream, I started to lose hope.
When I finally had the chance to leave Dell, I almost didn’t pull the trigger. I loved my mentors, mentees, and friends. I loved the stability of a 9-5 job with clear performance metrics and revenue goals to hit. And let’s be real…I loved the pay.
Leaving all of that behind to pursue publishing felt like moving to the Wild West where anything was possible but nothing was certain.
My last day at Dell was surreal. It also scared me to death. I was finally making progress towards this dream I’d had for so many years. But there was no guarantee that dream would become a reality. The publishing industry is more competitive than two sisters fighting over the bathroom. At least, I assume it is. I grew up with all brothers so I wouldn’t know.
Despite the risks, I took that cannonball leap of faith. Now, here I am two years later sharing my gorgeous cover!
Interested in hearing more? Here’s a little bit about my debut YA sci-fi novel ENHANCED:
Lee Urban is living a lie.
In a society where everyone’s DNA determines their destiny, being a Natural means automatic relegation to the gritty and dangerous Outskirts. With the harnessed power of gene-editing, the ability to create a super-human race has transformed the world and offered the opportunity of a genetically enhanced life. But only to those who can afford it.
Born a Natural, Lee Urban was adopted into the Enhanced high society of the Asian Federation and forced to conceal her genetic roots. When her dream of attending Peking University becomes a reality, she is determined to go despite a warning from a mysterious source.
Targeted by a hacker bent on exposing her true DNA, Urban faces off with an Artificial Intelligence Game that puts her—and her lies—to the test. What was supposed to be a dream come true turns into a lethal gamble of hide-and-seek with her genetics. Can Urban continue the act, or will the cracks in her story expose her and endanger her family?
Here’s what others have to say about ENHANCED…
“Full of action and high stakes, debut author Candace Kade spins an imaginative and futuristic tale of mystery, DNA and danger—don’t miss out!” – Nova McBee, award-winning author of the Calculated series
“Enhanced thrusts you into an impossible world that somehow feels all too familiar. Peppered with resonating truths about the direction of our society, this fascinating and imaginative story makes you rethink what could be feasible in the not so-distant-future. A must read for fans of young adult literature and science fiction!” – Lorie Langdon, author of the Disney Happily Never After Series
“Pulling from her unique upbringing in Asia, Candace Kade brings to life diverse cultural and creative influences to craft a stunning urban sci-fi novel with a pulse-pounding story you won’t be able to put down.” – Kara Swanson, award-winning author of Dust and Shadow and co-founder of the Author Conservatory
What is the great thing in your life you are called to? Are you pursuing it with every fiber in your being? Or are you settling for the good instead?
Leave the good for the great!
Candace signing off to celebrate this major milestone by making sourdough bread and drinking copious amounts of coffee.
