Friday, December 27, 2013

Mind Games (Mind Games #1) by Kiersten White (Review)


Fia was born with flawless instincts. Her first impulse, her gut feeling, is always exactly right. Her sister, Annie, is blind to the world around her—except when her mind is gripped by strange visions of the future.

Trapped in a school that uses girls with extraordinary powers as tools for corporate espionage, Annie and Fia are forced to choose over and over between using their abilities in twisted, unthinkable ways…or risking each other’s lives by refusing to obey.

In a stunning departure from her New York Times bestselling Paranormalcy trilogy, Kiersten White delivers a slick, edgy, heartstoppingly intense psychological thriller about two sisters determined to protect each other—no matter the cost.



I GIVE THIS BOOK: 4 Stars



MY THOUGHTS:
I was surprised by how quickly Mind Games drew me into the story, I was hooked from page one and just wanted to read it all right away - love when I feel that way. I loved how the book shifted the POV between both sisters, but the constant backtracking in time every other chapter or so was a little confusing. Enjoyable, I loved getting to know the things it brought up, but at the same time it would get me out of the story that was taking place and then it would take a bit for me to get back into the story again. That is the only reason I'm not giving this book 5 stars. Everything else in the story was SO good!


Mind Games was a really great read and one that I recommend. I plan to read the next book in this series as soon as it releases.

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Doctor Who: The Nightmare of Black Island by Mike Tucker (Review)



On a lonely stretch of Welsh coastline, a fisherman is killed by a hideous creature from beneath the waves. When the Doctor and Rose arrive, they discover a village where the children are plagued by nightmares, and the nights are ruled by monsters. The villagers suspect that ancient industrialist Nathanial Morton is to blame, but the Doctor has suspicions of his own. Who are the ancient figures that sleep in the old priory? What are the monsters that prowl the woods after sunset? What is the light that glows in the disused lighthouse on Black Island? As the children's nightmares get worse, the Doctor and Rose discover an alien plot to resurrect an ancient evil...



I GIVE THIS BOOK: 4 Stars



MY THOUGHTS:
The Nightmare of Black Island was a fun & interesting story and another great installment to the Doctor Who: New Series Adventures. I loved the interactions between the Doctor & Rose, they were done very well, and the way the Doctor behaved was almost spot on - there were a couple of things he did that just didn't seem right. The monsters in this book were quite terrifying, the idea was just so scary, I just loved it!

If you're a fan of Doctor Who, especially the tenth incarnation, I think you'd really enjoy reading The Nightmare of Black Island. I know I did :)


If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Saturday, November 30, 2013

The Many Hands by Dale Smith (Review)


The Nor' Loch is being filled in. If you ask the soldiers there, they'll tell you it's a stinking cesspool that the city can do without. But that doesn't explain why the workers won't go near the place without an armed guard. That doesn't explain why they whisper stories about the loch giving up its dead, about the minister who walked into his church twelve years after he died. It doesn't explain why, as they work, they whisper about a man called the Doctor. And about the many hands of Alexander Monro.

Featuring the Doctor and Martha as played by David Tennant and Freema Agyeman in the hit series from BBC Television.


I GIVE THIS BOOK: 5 Stars



MY THOUGHTS:
This was such a great DW story! I loved how every action by both the Doctor and Martha fit perfectly with their on-screen personas. Every time the Doctor was saying something or doing something in the book it was very easy to read it in David Tennant's voice and visualize him acting that way, which is so nice.

The monsters in the story were super creepy and not at all what I thought they were going to be. There were so many funny lines, that I was smiling so often it was ridiculous.

I loved that the story took place in Scotland, and when it said the Doctor had a Scottish accent I was hearing the accent David used in the episode Tooth and Claw.

Fans of Doctor Who should love reading The Many Hands - I know I did! :)

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Friday, November 29, 2013

Beautiful Chaos by Gary Russell (Review)


Donna Noble is back home in London, catching up with her family and generally giving them all the gossip about her journeys. Her grandfather is especially overjoyed - he's discovered a new star and had it named after him. He takes the Doctor, as his special guest, to the naming ceremony.

But the Doctor is suspicious about some of the other changes he can see in Earth's heavens. Particularly that bright star, right there. No not that one, that one, there, on the left...

The world's population is slowly being converted to a new path, a new way of thinking. Something is coming to Earth, an ancient force from the Dark Times. Something powerful, angry, and all-consuming...


I GIVE THIS BOOK: 4 Stars



MY THOUGHTS:
The start of this story brought to mind the sad scene at the end of Journey's End, when the Doctor was left all on his own. However, then the story goes back in time to a time when Donna & the Doctor are visiting her family - I loved that! How we get to see so much more of what Donna's family was like and the last chapter in the book was so touching and sweet - any fan if Donna Noble should be deeply moved by it.

Recommended to fans of Doctor Who.

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Maggie's Turn by Deanna Lynn Sletten (Review)



Sometimes you just have to walk away…to rediscover who you are.

Maggie Harrison is a devoted wife and mother, always putting the needs of her family ahead of her own. Then, one day, without planning to, she drives away, leaving behind an indifferent husband and two sulking teenagers. Maggie goes off on a quest of self-exploration, enjoying adventures, meeting new people, and rediscovering her passions. For the first time in years, she dreams about what she wants out of life, and she realizes that her deteriorating marriage can no longer continue as it is. Can she and Andrew repair their floundering relationship, or is their marriage over?

Andrew Harrison likes his life to be in perfect order. He enjoys his work and status in the community, leaving Maggie to take care of everything at home. He knows his marriage isn't perfect, but after twenty-three years and two kids, whose marriage is? When Maggie leaves without a word, he is forced to start paying more attention to his home life and his almost grown children, and he begins to do a little self-exploration of his own. Slowly, he begins to understand what drove Maggie away, and how important she is in his life. Is it too late to resolve their differences and save their marriage? Or will Andrew lose Maggie forever?


I GIVE THIS BOOK: 4 Stars



MY THOUGHTS:
I was delighted by how enjoyable a read Maggie's Turn ended up being. I immediately was drawn into the story and was connected to the characters.

Maggie is a wife and mother who has been underappreciated for years and has reached her breaking point, so one day she just takes off. First with the intention of only being gone for a few hours, however that quickly evolves into a journey that takes her through many states and making many new experiences.

Andrew, Maggie's husband, definitely needed a wake up call. His behavior was horrible and I could understand why Maggie felt she had to get a break. I loved the scenes with him realizing how much work Maggie does, not only around the house but for other as well, and that everything she does isn't as simple as he thought.

I personally didn't like that Maggie went off alone with men and put herself into situations that caused her to be tempted to cheat. I won't say whether or not she actually did anything but I feel, and this is a view I know isn't shared by everyone, that when you are married you should never put yourself into a situation that might cause you to stray - physically or emotionally.

Maggie's Turn was a great book and one that I recommend.

***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

BOOK DETAILS:
  • Paperback: 246 pages
  • Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (August 5, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1491277289
  • ISBN-13: 978-1491277287
  • Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.4 x 0.8 inches
  • Available to purchase at Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle) | B&N (Nook)



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Deanna Lynn Sletten writes women's fiction and romance novels that dig deeply into the lives of the characters, giving the reader an in-depth look into their hearts and souls. She has also written one middle-grade novel that takes you on the adventure of a lifetime.

Deanna's romance novel, Memories, was a semifinalist in The Kindle Book Review's Best Indie Books of 2012. Her novel, Sara's Promise, was a semifinalist in The Kindle Book Review's Best Indie Books of 2013 and a finalist in the 2013 National Indie Excellence Book Awards.

Deanna is married and has two grown children. When not writing, she enjoys walking the wooded trails around her northern Minnesota home with her beautiful Australian Shepherd or relaxing in the boat on the lake in the summer.


GIVEAWAY!
Deanna is hosting a giveaway on her website for a $100 Amazon gift card and signed copies of Maggie's Turn. For complete details on how to enter go to:  http://www.deannalynnsletten.com/2013/10/maggies-turn-book-blog-tour-giveaway.html

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

A Promise to Protect (Men of Valor #1) by Liz Johnson (Review)



Navy SEAL Matt Waterstone knows about keeping people safe. When his best friend's sister is attacked, Matt promises no harm will come to Ashley Sawyer—not on his watch. But Matt's not the only protective one. Ashley will do anything to safeguard the residents of the battered women's shelter she runs. She's sure she can handle the threats she gets in return. What she can't handle is the way Matt scales the walls around her heart. Yet when she falls prey to a crime web far more sinister than she'd realized, trusting Matt could be the only way to survive….




I GIVE THIS BOOK: 4 Stars



MY THOUGHTS:
I always enjoy a story when it features SEALs, so I was pretty sure I'd like this...as long as it wasn't corny, as some can be. I thought the author did a great job of showing the toughness of SEALs and also their kind caring side. Tristan, Ashley's brother, was a great character and I'm looking forward to reading his story in SEAL Under Siege. If you like suspense stories featuring SEALs you should enjoy this story too.

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Monday, November 18, 2013

Christmas at Harmony Hill: A Shaker Story by Ann H. Gabhart (Review)



She stared up at the Shaker buildings. They took in those in need. That was why she was riding into their village. But she couldn't stay here. Not forever. They divided families. She'd heard her grandmother speak harshly of the way Shakers didn't believe in marriage and had special houses were children were kept from their parents.

Heather put a hand over the swell of her baby inside her. Surely they wouldn't take a newborn from his mother's bosom. Heather's mother couldn't have imagined that happening or she'd have never told her to come...



I GIVE THIS BOOK: 3 Stars


MY THOUGHTS:
It's kind of hard to describe my feelings about this book, but I'll try. I loved the beginning with Heather being in the camp with Gideon, her husband, and his fellow soldiers. I love books set during the Civil War and wasn't expecting this Shaker book to take start in the midst of a Northern Army camp - nice surprise. Some parts of the story were really hard to get through, way too many details and not enough dialogue, so that made it tedious to read at times and really slow me down. The ending was sweet, predictable, but still sweet. 

If you love Shaker novels you would probably enjoy Christmas at Harmony Hill more than I did. Regardless, if you are looking for a different Christmas story and the synopsis of this book sounds interesting to you, I think you should give it a read.

***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***

Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Emerald Green (Ruby Red Trilogy #3) by Kerstin Gier (Review)



Gwen has a destiny to fulfill, but no one will tell her what it is.

 She’s only recently learned that she is the Ruby, the final member of the time-traveling Circle of Twelve, and since then nothing has been going right. She suspects the founder of the Circle, Count Saint-German, is up to something nefarious, but nobody will believe her. And she’s just learned that her charming time-traveling partner, Gideon, has probably been using her all along.

This stunning conclusion picks up where Sapphire Blue left off, reaching new heights of intrigue and romance as Gwen finally uncovers the secrets of the time-traveling society and learns her fate.


I GIVE THIS BOOK: 5 Stars



MY THOUGHTS:
A fabulous conclusion to a great trilogy! I loved reading Emerald Green so much and hated it when I reached the end, since I knew that this was it there would be no more about these characters. My suspicions from the previous novel were correct! I love when that happens, but only when it's not completely obvious and this wasn't! Xemerius again made me laugh so much, he's such a great addition to this story!

I recommend this fantastic series to anyone who loves tales about time travel.

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

The Adventures of Rupert Starbright Book 3: The Ghost of Winter Joy by Michael DiCerto (Chapter Reveal)

Strange creatures begin to appear in the normally dull Graysland after Rupert Starbright digs up a mysterious bell in his backyard. Rupert sets off on his latest adventure to discover the secret of a mysterious haunted mansion and its creepy occupant and the connection to the old holiday called Winter Joy.

Title: The Adventures of Rupert Starbright Book 3: The Ghost of Winter Joy
Author: Mike DiCerto 
Publisher: Zumaya Publications
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Language: English

About the Author:
A filmmaker and writer since childhood, Mike has directed numerous shorts, music videos, documentaries, promotional videos and two feature films (NO EXIT and TRIPTOSANE). His first novel, Milky Way Marmalade received rave reviews and was the winner of the 2003 Dream Realm Award.

He is very excited about the release of the first of his exciting new kid-lit series, RUPERT STARBRIGHT: The Door to Far-Myst.

Mike, a certified Yoga instructor, has many interests including gardening (loves growing chili peppers in his rooftop garden), playing guitar, cats (long-time volunteer at NYC’s Ollie’s Place Adoption Center), really good and really bad movies and 70s TV as well all kinds of geeky stuff. He is a dedicated MST3K fanatic. He thinks of music as his religion—especially Classic Rock.

He lives quite contently in a NYC apartment with his wife and soul mate, Suzy and their rescued kitties, Cosmo and Rupert.

You can visit Mike’s website at www.mikedicerto.com



Book Trailer:


Chapter Reveal:

Chapter 16 
Terrible Gold

The Hammerhead cruised along for two hours before Rupert felt the boat slowing down.  All he had seen during the journey was blue sky and a few puffy clouds overhead that slowlygrew darker and blacker. A slow rain began to fall, and McCoy decided he’d had enough and took off for a dryer corner to nap in.
Rupert peeked over the rim of the barrel and scanned the deck. It was quiet, although he could hear voices coming from below. He looked out over the railing of the boat and couldn’t believe his eyes. The boat was passing through a narrow channel past thick, dense trees and foggy land. The trees were ancient-looking, and many braches, like creepy hands, reached out towards the Hammerhead.
Where are we? Rupert wondered. He had never heard of Geelding’s Bay, and he had certainly never heard about a creepy place like this in Graysland or its surrounding regions.
The space between the shore and the ship grew less and less, and soon Rupert could hear occasional animal sounds coming from deep in the dense forest. Finally, the waterway widened, and they came upon an ancient stone building. It was built into the side of a hill and overgrown with thick brush.  A decrepit pier, held together by algae and dead vines, awaited the Hammerhead.
Rupert had to think quickly. Soon the deck would be busy, and his chances of getting caught would be high. As the ship slowly brushed the side of the pier with a dull screech, he closed his eyes to think of a plan. He had to Imagine something.
He reached into his jacket and took out the glass ball. It was hot, and the cat’s eyes were beaming ruby-red! Something dark and scary lay ashore.
Only the sound of the rain disrupted the eerie quiet that blanketed the land around him. There were no crewmen rushing on deck. Not yet. He needed to explore the boat and get some answers. He needed to move around quietly, invisibly.
He shook the sphere, and a wash of snow swirled around the little cat. The cat—even its red eyes—vanished behind the wall of white flakes. Rupert imagined how cool it would be if he could imagine snow that would swirl around him and make him invisible. Only the snow would also be invisible so he could wander around at will and not be seen.
Rupert focused his mind, and a wall of invisible snow, swirling like a cyclone, moved across the world, blanking out everything it passed. It then surrounded him, and in his mind, he became as clear as water. A soft whirring sound filled his ears, and he opened his eyes. Looking up at the sky, he saw a slight flickering. He looked down at himself.
He was gone! He is arms, his legs, his entire body were invisible. He could feel a slight tingling swirling all around him. His Imaginings had done it again!
Rupert climbed out of the barrel and walked briskly across the wet deck, his invisible feet splashing in the occasional little puddles. A staircase that led below the deck, and he quietly descended.
The steps led to a narrow passage with two doors on each side. At the end was an open area where hushed voices were busy in a discussion. The ceiling was quite low, and Rupert could easily reach out and touch it.
He made his way toward the voices, continually checking to see if he was still invisible. He was. When he reached the end, he was looking into the galley of the boat, where the captain and the crew sat around a large table. McCoy was curled up in a ball on Captain Stormwatch’s lap, and his ears twitched as he raised his head and sniffed the air.  
“It all seems like a child’s tale! If I may say, Captain, let’s just grab the gold and be on our way,” said a tall, skinny man with a blue woolen hat and a long mustache capped at each end with gold beads.
“Listen to me, Kreezer,” the captain said in a deep and serious tone. “This is your first run for this terrible gold. It <i>would seem a child’s fancy story to a fool like you! But perhaps you would like to be first off-deck to face it?”
McCoy hopped off the captain’s lap and made his way towards Rupert.
Kreezer mumbled something under his breath, and the captain stood up.
“Wicked spirits guard this gold. This terrible, terrible gold,” Captain Stormwatch began, lowering his voice to a whisper. “But an even more wicked spirit has sent us on this quest, and we must wait for his word. Then and only then may we leave this vessel and enter the crypt.”
Rupert’s mind was spinning again. What wicked spirit? A crypt? Why was this gold so terrible?
“That terrible spirit you speak of also wants to put a stop to Winter Joy,” said Wurmzy. He scratched the top of his bald head. “How will you face your children when there are no gifts for them under the trinket tree?”
A chorus of confused questions and complaints erupted.
“What do you mean no more Winter Joy? What sort of rubbish is that! Such a foul and evil demon!”
“Silence!” the captain ordered. “We have been hired to collect the gold. Never have I been told we were helping end the Winter holiday.”
“Perhaps,” Wurmzy replied, “but we all know what that gold will be used for. It’s even more terrible than you know. We’ll have the gold. Not even Gripper can stop us if we band together and refuse to just hand it over to him for the few crumbs he’s tossing at us.”
More conversation erupted, and the captain slammed his heavy fist on the tabletop.
“We have our mission, and we will complete it and head back to our homes. Let the evil demons do as they wish.”
Rupert felt a soft rub and looked down to see McCoy brushing back and forth against his invisible legs. The cat began his loud purring. Rupert tried to push him gently away, but it only seemed to encourage the friendly kitty even more.
One of the men at the table, a squat man who wore a green-and-yellow shirt and had a snake tattooed around his neck, glanced across the room and spotted McCoy’s antics. His eyes opened wider than his mouth. The axe-faced man who sat across from him chuckled.
“What’s wrong with you? Look like you just saw the ghost of your old great-grandfather!”
“I think maybe I am, as I live and breathe! Seems McCoy has made pals with it!”
All heads turned towards Rupert. Of course, no one saw him, just the orange-and-white kitty rubbing up against—nothing!
The captain slowly walked towards McCoy.
“Hey, there, boy, whatcha got? A little mouse, maybe?”
McCoy meowed and purred and made little happy sounds. Rupert wanted to run, but he was afraid to move. The captain stepped closer, squinting his eyes as if that might reveal what the cat was cozying up with. Very slowly, he extended his index finger closer and closer to Rupert’s invisible face.
It wasn’t even an inch away when Rupert lunged his head forward and chomped his teeth down on the captain’s finger. Captain Stormwatch screamed and snatched back his throbbing digit as chaos exploded. The captain looked like he wanted to run, but he couldn’t. He had to stay strong in front of his men. He grimaced and put his hands on his hips.
“Listen, you foul demon! I order you to leave this vessel!”
Rupert’s invisible smile went ear to ear. The captain frowned angrily and, with clenched fists, took another step towards him. Rupert took a deep breath and let out a deep and loud roar that even scared McCoy, who scampered under the table.
The captain got a silly expression, and he jumped back in fear. Many of his man raced out of the room.  Rupert was trying not to laugh when the captain pulled a large knife from the sheath hanging on his belt. Rupert’s smile vanished as he watched the knife rise into the air.
“They are attacking!” one of the crewmen cried.
The captain froze, and Rupert turned and escaped down the hallway and up the stairs to the deck. The moist air hit his face and felt refreshing. The rain had stopped.
There was a sound of clanging metal, and when he turned he couldn’t believe what he saw. Ten skeletons dressed in golden suits of armor were attempting to board the craft!
Captain Stormwatch rushed onto the deck, a mean-looking sword with a curved blade held out before him.  The rest of his crew rushed out behind him, all with swords, spears, and harpoons at the ready.
“Attack these gilded demons! The heads! Off with their heads!” ordered the captain.
The men rushed the army of skeletons as swords swung and metal clanged against metal.
Rupert stepped back and was not sure what to do. He watched as the captain, with a clean swing of his sword, lopped the helmeted skull off one skeleton. The body beneath it collapsed to the ground in a lifeless pile of gold. The captain laughed with delight.
But not all his men were as skilled, and two of them had been knocked off their feet and were wrestling with the invaders on the deck.  Another was pushed overboard and splashed into the water.
Rupert knew he had to help. If the skeletons defeated the crew, he would be stuck here forever. Maybe he would be discovered by the skeletons and killed! He closed his eyes and tried to think of something. He didn’t realize he was no longer invisible, nor that the glass ball in his jacket pocket was growing even hotter.
Rupert felt cold breath on his neck. He was afraid to breath.
“Hello, Master Rupert.” Gripper greeted him.



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Doctor Who: Ghosts of India by Mark Morris (Review)



India in 1947 is a country in the grip of chaos - a country torn apart by internal strife. When the Doctor and Donna arrive in Calcutta, they are instantly swept up in violent events.

Barely escaping with their lives, they discover that the city is rife with tales of 'half-made men', who roam the streets at night and steal people away. These creatures, it is said, are as white as salt and have only shadows where their eyes should be.

With help from India's great spiritual leader, Mohandas 'Mahatma' Gandhi, the Doctor and Donna set out to investigate these rumours.

What is the real truth behind the 'half-made men'? Why is Gandhi's role in history under threat? And has an ancient, all-powerful god of destruction really come back to wreak his vengeance upon the Earth?


I GIVE THIS BOOK: 2 Stars



MY THOUGHTS:
Ghosts of India was all right - not good, not bad, just all right. I've read quite a few of the Doctor Who novels and many of them I think would make great episodes. However, this one I don't think would. There really wasn't much to the story. the characters (besides the Doctor and Donna) were bland, even Gandhi sorry to say. The monster wasn't that smart or scary and the solution at the end was just dull.

There were a few cute lines from the main characters, but even though their on-screen personas were hardly like them. The Doctor called people idiots way too often, I honestly can't remember him even calling anyone that in the show. (I could be completely wrong and he did, but I just don't remember it.) Oh, he would imply that people were because when he's around no one else is smart, but I don't recall him actually saying it. (I'm talking only about the reboot here, I still haven't watch many of the classic ones)

If you've never read a DW novel and are looking for one, I would suggest you read a different one first. My personal favorites, so far, are: The Stone Rose, Sting of the Zygons, and The Pirate Loop.

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Twice a Bride (The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek #4) by Mona Hodgson (Review)


Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever.
Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?

Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek.  When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.

With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West.  Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?

Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns. 


I GIVE THIS BOOK: 4 1/2 Stars

MY THOUGHTS:
After reading the three previous books in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series I was looking forward to reading Twice a Bride, the fourth and final book in the series. I very much enjoyed it and hate that it is the last book about this family.

I loved Hattie immediately from the first book and so wanted to see her get another love, she's a great woman and if anyone deserves another chance at love it's her. Then there's Willow, someone that I liked so much from the moment she was introduced, and I felt so terribly for all that she went through in her young life. The way love comes for both of them was wonderful and so sweet!

My only complaint is that, at times, the story felt rushed. There were two different love stories being told, updates on the previous books main characters, and a few "problems" that were solved so quickly that it almost felt as though shouldn't have even have been in there.

Even though this book could easily be read as a stand alone, as the author does a fabulous job of giving all the necessary details about each one of the previous books' stories, I would recommend reading them in order. I loved this book and series and think any fan of historical fiction would greatly enjoy them too.

***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Waiting on Wednesday (November 13, 2013)


Hosted by Breaking the Spine
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Carolina Gold by Dorothy Love

The war is over, but her struggle is just beginning.

Charlotte Fraser returns to her late father’s once-flourishing rice plantation on the Waccamaw River, determined to continue growing the special kind of rice known as Carolina Gold. But Fairhaven Plantation is in ruins, the bondsmen are free, and money is scarce.

To make ends meet, Charlotte reluctantly accepts a position as tutor to the young daughters of Nicholas Betancourt, heir to the neighboring Willowood Plantation. Then Nick’s quest to prove his ownership of Willowood sends Charlotte on a dangerous journey that reveals an old family mystery—and threatens all that she holds dear.

Inspired by the life of a 19th century woman rice planter, CAROLINA GOLD continues Dorothy Love’s winning tradition of weaving together mystery, romance, and rich historical detail, bringing to life the story of one young woman’s struggle to restore her ruined world.

Why I want to read this:
I loved reading Dorothy's previous series and am looking forward to reading more by her. 

Carolina Gold will be available December 10th 2013 from Thomas Nelson.


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Tuesday, November 12, 2013

The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom (Review)


In this fable, the first man on earth to count the hours becomes Father Time. The inventor of the world's first clock is punished for trying to measure God's greatest gift. He is banished to a cave for centuries and forced to listen to the voices of all who come after him seeking more days, more years. Eventually, with his soul nearly broken, Father Time is granted his freedom, along with a magical hourglass and a mission: a chance to redeem himself by teaching two earthly people the true meaning of time.

He returns to our world--now dominated by the hour-counting he so innocently began--and commences a journey with two unlikely partners: one a teenage girl who is about to give up on life, the other a wealthy old businessman who wants to live forever. To save himself, he must save them both. And stop the world to do so.

I GIVE THIS BOOK: 3 Stars

MY THOUGHTS:
I listened to the audio version of this book and thought the narrator did a fantastic job - I loved all the different voices!

The start of this book was great, Dor's story drew me in immediately! I was fascinated with his fascination with measuring time.

Sarah's story was sad to me. I felt so terrible for her, kids can be so mean. Ethan was such a jerk and I hated that Sarah couldn't see that.

Victor's story instead of making me feel bad for him actually made me a little irritated with him. Here he has a wife who loves him and instead of spending what time he has left with her, he wastes it on trying to find a way to preserve himself so he can live forever.

It was a quick read, but there just wasn't much to it and the ending didn't really make complete sense to me. Overall it was good and if you're in the mood for a quick read that makes you think a bit this would be for you.

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

BOOK DETAILS:
  • Hardcover: 240 pages
  • Publisher: Hyperion; 1st edition (September 4, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1401322786
  • ISBN-13: 978-1401322786
  • Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.9 x 7.6 inches
  • Available to purchase at Amazon | B&N | CBD

Monday, November 11, 2013

The Silent Immigrants by Boniface Nwugwo (Book Spotlight)



When Boniface Nwugwo left his hometown in Eastern Nigeria in 1980 to study in America, he had only $4600 to his name for his tuition, his faith in God and an unquenchable thirst to succeed in America. In this revealing, inspiring and compelling memoir, Boniface with uncompromising candor, tells his story of courage, insurmountable struggles, and triumphs that he and many West African immigrants faced before and after coming to America demonstrating that you can reach your dreams if you persevere.

From modest beginnings as the son of a teacher in his native Imo State of Nigeria, Boniface Nwugwo overcame poverty to distinguish himself as a brilliant academic and achieve a respectable career in the information technology industry.

Through his story and the sample stories of other West African immigrants, America’s promise as land of immigrants with infinite possibilities are rekindled in this self-revealing and self-fulfilling book.

Purchase at AuthorHouse

About the Author:
Boniface Chibuzo Nwugwo was born on February 16, 1960 at Alaenyi Ogwa, in the Mbaitoli Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State (part of what was the Eastern Region) of Nigeria. Popularly known as B.C. (as his parents refer to their children by their initials), he is the third of nine children born to Juliana and Christian Onwezi Nwugwo. His father, a retired elementary school headmaster, and his mother, a retired seamstress, live part-time in the United States, and part-time in Nigeria.

Boniface attended different elementary schools in Mbaitoli LGA due to the fact that his father as a teacher moved from school to school. He attended Obazu Community Grammar School Mbieri in Mbaitoli LGA of Imo State, graduating in 1978. After graduation from secondary school he spent 18 months working for First Bank of Nigeria while waiting to gain admission into a university. After almost two years of waiting, he travelled to America to pursue his post-secondary education even though he did not have all the resources required to make such a trip.

From the second month of his freshman year at the State University of New York at Brockport, he started working for the school’s Shipping & Receiving Department until his graduation. He graduated from the State University of New York at Brockport in 1984, with a B.S. in Computer Science. He found a job in Rochester New York and continued to pursue higher learning while working full-time, earning a Master of Public Administration in information management systems from State University of New York at Brockport in 1987, and a Master of Science in software development & management from Rochester Institute of Technology in 1989.

In 1995 he relocated with his wife to the Washington DC area. He continued to work and go to school until 2003 when he completed a PhD program in information technology management from Capella University, Minneapolis/St Paul Minnesota. Boniface and his wife and their four children live in Maryland.

Boniface now runs an Information Technology Consulting business he founded in 2005. Boniface is also IEEE Senior member and member of the IEEE Computer Society and Past Chair of the IEEE Computer Society, Baltimore Chapter. He lives in Maryland with his wife Francisca and their four children – Brian, Allen, Jaine and Denzel.

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Saturday, November 9, 2013

Singularity (The Jevin Banks Experience #2) by Steven James (Review)


When his friend is murdered, illusionist Jevin Banks is determined to find out what really happened. Drawn into a web of conspiracy and top-secret research on human consciousness, Jevin won't stop digging until the truth is revealed. Soon he uncovers a dark secret--one that could change the very fabric of human life on the planet.

Bristling with mystery, suspense, and intrigue, "Singularity" is the second riveting book in The Jevin Banks Experience. Readers will devour this scientific thriller, flipping pages late into the night until the final shocking page.


I GIVE THIS BOOK: 5 Stars

MY THOUGHTS:
The opening scene in Singularity was spine-tingling and shocking - which is great in a thriller. Some of the stuff in the book was a little hard to understand, even though it's told in a very easy way, so I found myself rereading some of the more detailed portions.

I read Placebo, the first book in this series, a year ago and wasn't thrilled with it (only gave it 3 stars), so I wasn't expecting much from this book. I was pleasantly surprised by how great Singularity was. I loved this book so much that I wonder if I were to reread the the first one if I'd love it more, since now I know the characters so much more. If I ever have the time I think I just might.

If you are looking for a scientific thriller I think you should read Singularity. I highly recommend it.

***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***

Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. 

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Waiting on Wednesday (November 6, 2013)


Hosted by Breaking the Spine
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

All Things Hidden 
by Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse

When Gwyn was young, her mother left Alaska to raise Gwyn's sister, Sophia, in Chicago. Now it's 1935, and Gwyn works as a nurse at her father's Alaskan practice--where a strange turn of events places Sophia's former beau at their doorstep. Will the spark between Gwyn and Jeremiah be ruined when his secret is revealed?

Why I want to read this:
I always love reading Tracie's books and this one sounds really good.

All Things Hidden will be available January 1st 2014 from Bethany House Publishers.


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Tuesday, November 5, 2013

An Incurable Insanity by Simi K Rao - Grand Finale!

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

The Exotic Tour Grand Finale
  
Happy Festival of Lights!


diwali lamps
Diwali

An Incurable InsanityAn Incurable Insanity
by Simi K Rao
Paperback, eBook, 376 pages
Published October 8, 2013 by Tate Publishing

Her heart fluttered when she heard the sound of the key turn in the lock. She quickly adjusted her maroon silk sari with the yellow border, the one that had caught his eye, and waited eagerly for his footsteps.

One, two, three, four, five, six, seven... Yes, exactly seven steps before he stopped, hesitated for a few moments, then removed his shoes one by one and arranged them neatly side by side on the shoe rack.

She smiled. He had been mindful of taking his shoes off every day now... 


* Read an Excerpt *



We offer flowers in traditional welcome.
You are our honored guest on our tour...


10/20: Launch - Tressa's Wishful Endings

"In Rao's debut novel an arranged marriage sets the stage for an intimate look at the exasperating madness of love....An often intoxicating...will-they-won't-they tale."- KIRKUS REVIEWS

10/21: #Dawat-Recipe Intriguing Reads

No discussion on India would be complete without mentioning its food which is as rich and colorful as its residents. And I am not kidding when I say that travelling from one region to another will not only introduce you to different languages and dialects but also to markedly varied cuisines.

I still have very fond memories of my Grandma’s kitchen where food used to be prepared the way it should be—from scratch. It was labor intensive but also a lot of fun. I know because I used to help.

10/22: #Vivaah-Marriage Ritual The Wonderings of One Person

Exotic wedding_handsHindu marriages are all about customs and rituals. There are several both before and after the wedding ceremony making it a very elaborate affair. But the most important of them all is the Seven Vows or Saath Pheras which occur during the ceremony because they are said to contain the essence of the practice of marriage. Without them a marriage is considered meaningless.

‘Ruhi quietly and blissfully followed Shaan around the sacred flames carefully listening to and reciting the Saath Pheras in her mind.’ – An Incurable Insanity

10/22: #Desi-Indian Culture vvb32 reads


Indians in general are deeply rooted in tradition. Our culture gives us our identity. Most of us (especially those living away from the homeland,) cling to it, even though several aspects especially in these modern times, make no sense at all.

10/24: #Vivaah-Marriage Ritual Giveaway Breaking News for Indonesia

Cherish your wife as a blessing sent to you from heaven; let the kindness of your behavior endear you to her heart.

10/25: #Desi-Indian Culture Christy’s Cozy Corners

"Unclasping the sacred marriage necklace from around her neck, she laid it down carefully on the counter. Then, wiping off the vermilion dot from her forehead, she examined her face again.

She smiled. Finally, she knew who she was. She was Ruhi Sharma, and there was no looking back."
 –  An Incurable Insanity

10/25 - #Desi - Shakti "the Divine Woman" - A Casual Fling with the Keyboard

She is bold and liberated. She speaks her mind. She is tough and vibrant. She knows what she wants and doesn’t compromise on her values.

10/26: #Dawat-Recipe Book Babe

“Chai?”

“Huh? Yes please with just a pinch of sugar. Thanks!” He took the cup from her hands, careful not to touch her fingers. - An Incurable Insanity
 


A cup of this refreshing brew served piping hot, awakens the senses and drives the blues away.

10/27: #Dawat-Recipe Brooke Blogs

Kheer"It was the best pudding he’d ever tasted…for obvious reasons." ~ An Incurable Insanity

After all the spicy heat of chai and parathas, let’s cool the tempers with something sweet and delish!

10/28: #Dawat-Recipe Living a Goddess Life

"Standing in front of the large bathroom mirror, she combed her long thick hair. Should I leave it loose or braid it? Should I put on makeup or go bare? Should I wear all my bangles or just a couple of them? So many questions! Why don’t all men come with a user guide?"


10/29: #Desi-Indian Culture Sun Mountain Reviews

She had gone through all the miscellaneous ceremonies associated with the typical grand Indian wedding—the engagement, the Mehendi, the Sangeet, the Haldi, and the grand finale; her father had spared no expense… - An Incurable Insanity

Wedding Henna
Mehendi (Henna) is derived from the ancient Sanskrit word Mendika. The tradition of applying it is several thousands of years old and is perhaps the most traditional form of body art. It is meant to ‘awaken the inner light’.
10/30: #Vivaah-Marriage Ritual Mel’s Shelves

The bombshell had dropped on their wedding night. He had walked into the room late as she sat there, a shy bride in all her wedding finery waiting, nervous yet excited at the same time, to meet the man she had hardly spoken to or looked at. What would he say, talk about, or do?
She had heard a lot of stories about what to expect, some factual and some fabricated (her friends had prepared her well), but she wanted her own to be special, unique, and it was…
 – An Incurable Insanity
10/31: #Desi-Indian Culture Shannon McDermott


“Go ahead, Shaan,” Bee said softly, giving him permission.

He pinched a small amount of the red powder and placed it firmly in the parting on her forehead. Not entirely certain why, but this makeshift ceremony appeared more meaningful to him than the one on his wedding day.
“Perfect! Now my mishti bon looks like a bride, a very beautiful bride.”


11/1: #Dawat -  Beck Valley Books

Paratha [par-AA- THA] Hindi पराठा is one of the most popular types of unleavened flat breads in Punjabi North Indian Cuisine and Pakistan.

Prepared from pan frying whole wheat dough which usually has ghee (clarified butter) or cooking oil in it, parathas are often stuffed with vegetables such as mashed boiled potatoes or aloo, cauliflower (gobhi), radish (mooli), other vegetables and or paneer (fresh Indian cheese).

Parathas, particularly the stuffed ones, are simply eaten with pickles, chutneys and or yogurt on the side and make for a wholesome meal at any time of the day.

In my book ‘An Incurable Insanity’ my protagonist Ruhi, when she first arrives in America, longs for home, the feel of her mother’s pallu (sari’s edge) and for the taste of fresh homemade parathas and piping hot chai. 

11/1 - #Dawat - "Bashful Bride" - A Casual Fling with the Keyboard

She sits on the rose strewn bed
A bashful bride
In all her jeweled splendor
Hennaed hands resting on drawn up knees
Innocent and uninitiated
Awaiting the approach of her beloved

the shy bride

11/3 – 11/5: Grand Finale - Giveaway runs through 11/11
Happy Diwali!

Go read the #Talk on Simi's Facebook 
as she has walked us through the beautiful backdrop to her amazing book... 


Simi K. RaoSimi K. Rao was born in India and has been living in the United States for several years. The inspiration for An Incurable Insanity came from what she has seen transpire among and within the immigrant community. Some of the experiences included are her own; some have been garnered from friends and casual conversations with acquaintances...




Giveaway:
$100 Gift Card to Amazon
5 eCopies of An Incurable Insanity

October 18 - November 11, 2013. International giveaway. Must be able to download winnings. Must be 18 to enter. See Rafflecopter for additional restrictions.


Grand Finale design by Laura of Colorimetry
Content by Simi K Rao
Quotes from blog posts

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