Saturday, December 30, 2017

Book Review: Amish Knitting Circle

Amish Knitting Circle (Smicksburg Tales #1)This is a wonderful book that encircles a group of Amish. It shares the hardships, questions, love, and the knitting that  surrounds the people in the town of Smicksburg. Granny sets up a knitting circle of 5 very different individuals. One has low self-esteem, one cannot have a  baby, one has eight  children and is dealing with medical issues, one has questions of a past love and one wishing she could escape her marriage.

The stories tell how faith in God can help each other through difficult times, no matter what they are. This book was a blessing and an eye-opener to Amish life. I highly recommend it.     

This book may be purchased at Amazon HERE
This book may be purchased at Barnes and Noble HERE

Book Review: Death at Thorburn Hall

Death at Thorburn Hall (A Drew Farthering Mystery Book #6) by [Deering, Julianna]This is book six in the Drew Farthering Mystery Books. Don't let this turn you away, however. I don't always enjoy coming into a series not having read the previous books, but I thought I would try this one since it was a mystery. I am very glad that I did.

In this book, Drew Farthering was going for a holiday at the 1935 British Open at Muirfield. While there he discovers that the partner of Lord Rainsby, his host, is believed to be embezzling. Lord Rainsby as for help but soon is found dead. As is his way, Farthering continues looking around, in spite of all the guest present, each who had motive to kill Rainsby.

This book is filled with history and mystery, two things that draw me right into a book. The characters in the book gave me a feeling that I was glancing into a life I would not have known, if I were around at that time. This makes me feel like a fly on the wall, trying to absorb as much as I can. The same can be said about the way the mystery was written. I felt like I was looking for a solution with Farthering, without interfering or knowing what was to come next.

I loved this mystery and I hope to now pick up other books by the same author. I was given this book by Bethany House Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

This book may be found at Amazon HERE!
This book may be found at Barnes and Noble HERE!


Saturday, December 16, 2017

Book Review: Jacob's Ladder Reading Comprehension Program Grade 5

This reading program was created for children who demonstrate high reading skills. Each section includes tools to help build skills in critical analyses of work. As children progress through the program they learn many skills including cause and effect, literary elements, summarizing, themes and more.
This material may be used to aid in homeschooling or in a gifted program within a school.
The Short Story section includes:
    *A Plentiful Harvest
    *The Elves and the Cobbler
    *Intense
    *The Real Princess
    *One Girl's Song
    *The Three Spinning Fairies

Poetry:
    *A Corn-Song
    *I Hear America Singing
    *Prairie Song
    *If
    *A Jelly-Fish
    *Recuerdo
    *Sunset
    *Read
    *Lost Illusions

Nonfiction:
    *Economics 101
    *Mass, Volume and Density
    *Population Explosion: How Math Helps You Understand America's Past
    *The Systems of the Human Body (Parts 1 and 2)
    *What is Sound

Essays/Speeches:
    *Excerpts from Common Sense
    *Franklin D. Roosevelt's First Inaugural Address (excerpt)
    *The Gettysburg Address
    *Moving Pictures Evoke Concern, 1922
    *Washington's Letter to His Wife Martha

I believe this would be a beneficial tool to use to assist students in moving forward with their reading skills.
I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: The Yuletide Angel

The Yuletide Angel: A mysterious benefactor ... a secret guardian ... and a love sweeter than grace. by [Ardoin, Sandra]This book is set in the 1890s at Christmas. Violet Madison has an uncertain future. Her home has been inherited by her brother and he is to be married soon. Violet assumes that this means she will not be welcome there when children come. In addition to this, she has been given the title of the Yuletide Angel, a mysterious person who leaves items at the homes of the needy at night. The only one who knows of her nighttime excursions is Hugh Barnes. He worries for her as she goes out to aid others.

Finally, Violet tells Hugh about her uncertain future, who helps by allowing her to sell her goods in his store. When Hugh's brother shows up and show an interest in Violet, he becomes worried. In addition, there is someone that is stalking Violet at night, she fears they will try to stop her good works.

I could rave about this book for a long time. I loved the setting, the time and the characters. The story's pace was good and kept me wanting to pick it back up to read more. I highly recommend this book.

The Yuletide Angel can be found at Amazon HERE!
or
at Barnes and Noble HERE!


Book Review: Colors of Christmas

This book, Colors of Christmas, has two stories set for the contemporary book reader. Christmas in Gold tells about an older woman who faces the changes moving into a community housing center can bring. She grew up during the time of Hitler, in Germany. She tells about the fighting and not being allowed to ask or say anything. The tale is from her perspective and how her life has brought her closer to others, especially the physical therapist. She also shares Jesus and her telling shows how this was how she broke through to her therapist.

Christmas Blue features Angela who lost her best friend eight months ago and still misses her. Her friend had the joy of Christmas. She would lead decorating and all the special traditions that made this time of year special. Now Angela is expected to take her friends place, which she accepts. Unfortunately, misfortunes keep appearing - a broken wagon, water damage on ornaments that were stored in the basement of the church when a pipe broke and so on. When someone arrives to help, things begin to look better.

Both of these stories are good Christian fiction without being preachy. They each deal with loss and love during Christmas. I enjoyed both of these books. tremendously.

I was given these book by NetGalley and Barbour Publishing Company in exchange for my honest review. 

These book may be found on Amazon HERE
or
at Barnes and Noble HERE

Friday, December 8, 2017

Book Review: Mehendi Tides

Front CoverSet on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Mehendi Tides, by Siobhan Malany, follows Kate McKenna who is discovering the beauty of India and Pakistan. She becomes so enthralled with the culture and the history of this area as she travels with Nasreen, a childhood friend, and Krishna, as she visit family.

Along with the rituals which surround an arranged marriage, Kate becomes aware of feelings inside of her. Many years later, she reflects on this time while she looks for her own meaning of life and struggles with secrets that her friends have.

I love how this book is written. I have never traveled in this part of the world so to see it through the eyes of this young one was splendid. The descriptions of the places placed me right there. I also loved the friendship between the three girls. It was so much fun.

I received an autographed copy, from the author, in exchange for an honest review.

This book may be found on Amazon HERE!
or on Barnes and Noble HERE!


Monday, December 4, 2017

Book Review: Bible Promises to Live By For Women

This little book is filled with promises from God for almost any time in your life. I began by looking at each of the entries where I found a short reading with a wealth of Bible verses to reinforce the entry. Some of the topics that inspired me were Belonging, Comparison, Conflict, Family, and Peace.

Each topic is arranged in alphabetical order so they are easy to find. This helps them to aid the reader faster so they can savor each word or the promise.

I plan on keeping this little book by my bed so that I can turn to it whenever I find a need.

I was given this book by Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.


Book Review: Where We Belong

Where We Belong, by Lynn Austen is set in 1892 in Chicago. Rebecca and Flora Hawes are sisters in this Victorian Age. However, instead of enjoying balls at home they head to the Sinai Desert.

Their butler Soren Petersen and Kate Rafferty, a lady's maid in training, formerly from the street, are accompanying the sisters as they are looking for a biblical manuscript.

This is not an easy trip. They face many dangers, which cause each of them to look at their past and what has made each of them the person they are today.

I went on the journey with these travelers as I followed along page-by-page. It was also interesting to see how the author was able to instill her faith in God throughout the book. I enjoy books about history and all the adventures it took to create the world today. This was a wondrous book and I highly recommend it.

I was given this book by Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

    Thursday, November 30, 2017

    Book Review: The Cat Who Talked Turkey

    The Cat Who Talked Turkey (Cat Who... Book 26) by [Braun, Lilian Jackson]These books by Lilian Jackson Braun are so addicting. In this one the Pickax bookstore is having its groundbreaking. At the same time Brrr, yes that is the name of the town, is having a celebration for their bicentennial. Of course, the events are ruined when a man's body is located on James Qwilleran's land. This brings Qwill and his mystery solving cats, Koko and Yum Yum to the thing they like most, determining who committed this crime.

    These books are so much fun, this is the 26th in "The Cat Who..." series and I have enjoyed every one. This is an enjoyable read for when the reader is looking for a mystery that is not too heavy.

    •  


    Book Review: The Lost Woman

    Sofie Parker, a Dane, is murdered in England. The murder was a shot through the kitchen window. Sofie had been on the Missing Persons list for almost 20 years. Because of the circumstances, Louise Rick is asked to be on the case, however, the person who reported Sofie missing was Louise's co-worker and her significant other, Eik. He comes to England and is jailed on suspicion of the murder. All of this has confused Louise, but she continues on with the case hoping to find the killer.

    I seem to be on a thriller kick right now. Even though this is the third in the series, and I had not read the previous ones. I was able to pick the characters up easily. The story was very complex with many surprises throughout.

    If you are a lover of murder mysteries this would be an excellent choice. I was given this book by Grand Central Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

    Tuesday, November 28, 2017

    Book Review: the Crush

    In Sandra Brown's The Crush, Dr. Rennie Newton is on Ricky Lozada's jury. Lozada is a well-known hit man. However, the jury decides to vote not guilty. Soon it appears that she has a new admirer. One of her peers, also a rival, is murdered, and Rennie is a suspect. Then she becomes stalked by Lozado. Wick Threadgill is a detective that is after the killer and soon Wick and Rennie join forces.

    So well-written that when i picked it up I did not want to set it down until I was finished and satisfied with the ending. I was thrilled that I was left to wonder how they would capture Lozado. and the characters were so wonderful. They would appear one way but then you saw the layers as the story progressed.

    I must say that Brown was able to create a villain who was easy to hate. From the trial on, he was a character that I loved to hate.

    I feel that if the reader is looking for a thrilling adventure, this is an excellent to try.

    This book may be purchased at Amazon HERE!

    or Barnes and Noble HERE!
    This is the very first Sandra Brown book I read from her. My girlfriend at work recommended this book and I loved it from the first page. This book is definitely a page turner. She has become one of my favorite authors. This book has love, sex, humor, and is a very fast read. I enjoyed it alot. Then I tried her other stuff but this is still my favorite book from Sandra Brown. I normally read paranormal romance so it's a great book to come back to reality.
    This is the very first Sandra Brown book I read from her. My girlfriend at work recommended this book and I loved it from the first page. This book is definitely a page turner. She has become one of my favorite authors. This book has love, sex, humor, and is a very fast read. I enjoyed it alot. Then I tried her other stuff but this is still my favorite book from Sandra Brown. I normally read paranormal romance so it's a great book to come back to reality.

    Monday, November 27, 2017

    Book Review: Gork, the Teenage Dragon

    Gork is different from other dragons. His heart is big, his horns aren't and he faints. At the WarWings Military Academy he is called Weak Sauce and he is the lowest in his class. However, he doesn't let any of this get to him. Tomorrow he is to graduate from high school and tonight he needs to ask a female to be queen. It could go one of two ways, she could say yes and they will go off together to other planets, or he could end up being a slave.

    This is a combination of love story, fantasy and just so much fun. The author has such an imagination, it is hard to believe this could be a debut novel. Teens will be able to relate to it as they empathize with Gork and cheer him on.

    This would be an enjoyable book for this age reader and I recommend it. I was given this book by NetGalley and Knopf Doubleday Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

    This book may be purchased from Amazon HERE!

    Or at Barnes and Noble HERE!




    Monday, November 20, 2017

    Book Review: Mae and June and the Wonder Wheel

    This is a children's chapter book where June and Mae are new neighbors. After becoming best friends they turn to the Wonder Wheel to determine what their adventures will be each day. Each spin brings fun times for both girls. Perhaps they need to find something blue that day or do a good deed. In addition to this June can hear her dog, Sammy talk. Should she tell Mae?

    This book is suggested for grades 2-4 but I believe as a read aloud book children younger than this can enjoy it also. This high energy book will sweep kids away with ease. This is a fun, friendly book that I believe most children will enjoy.

    I was given this book by NetGalley and HMH Books for Young Readers in exchange for my honest review.

    This book may be found at Amazon HERE!
    or
    At Barnes and Noble HERE!

    Sunday, November 19, 2017

    Book Review: The Skeleton Garden

    This is part of the cozy mystery series, A Potting Shed Mystery.

    Pru Parke has moved from Texas to a plush place in England called Greenoak. Offered this estate, Pru and Christopher Pearse, her new hubby and former Detective Chief Inspector, said yes. While there she decides to connect with her brother, Simon.

    While working on the grounds, Pru and her brother, the grounds worker, found a WWII German fighter plane and some bones. This did not thrill everyone and some blamed Simon. This did not sit well with Pru so she fights for him.

    This was such a fun read. I enjoyed the garden talk and the connection with WWII. The development of the characters was well done. I had not read a book in this series before so this aspect was important to me. The predictability factor was pretty high but it was still enjoyable.

    I received this book from NetGalley and Random House Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

    This book may be purchased at Amazon HERE!





    Friday, November 17, 2017

    Book Review: All Saints

    All Saints: The Surprising True Story of How Refugees from Burma Brought Life to a Dying Church by [Spurlock, Michael, Windle, Jeanette]When I first received this book, I did not realize that it was made into a movie. So first I read the book and then I saw the movie. They are both excellent.

    A church of about 12 parishioners is preparing to close its doors by bringing in a newly ordained minister who is tasked with the job. Soon a family from Burma begins to attend the church because of the similarities between it and their home Anglican church. These Burmese attenders continued to come and they grew. Along with them came their needs. The pastor decides to challenge the church to help with their needs and to keep the doors open. This is the story.

    I loved the story. Included was the background story of the Burmese and their journey to the Anglican church. I found myself pulled, much as the minister in the story was. Plus I found myself cheering for each person in the story.

    I highly recommend this book.

    I was given this book by NetGalley and Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. 

    Thursday, November 16, 2017

    Book Review: Noelle

    Noelle: A Novel (A Dog Named Christmas) by [Kincaid, Greg]This book, Noelle, by Greg Kincaid, tugged at my heartstrings from the Prologue. It talked about the puppy mill where Noelle was born. My own dog was rescued at the side of the road from one of these places and would have froze to death if she were not saved.

    I have not read the previous books in this series, but that was all right as they gave a good description of events and people that were in this book. Noelle was cast aside when she was born because she was not the perfect example of a Golden Retriever. However, she became the friendliest and most wonderful dog. Todd and Laura are two characters in the story.

    Todd was born developmentally delayed. However, with the love and support of those around him he became a top dog trainer. In this book he and Laura move in together and look to the future. Todd becomes the manager of a new dog rescue facility.

    Mary Ann, Todd's mom and outspoken library board member, has found herself in the new position of Mrs. Anna Claus.

    Each of the characters is so easy to relate to, it was hard to believe that so much story could fit between the covers of this small book. This is definitely a book for those looking for a book for Christmas or for those who enjoy dog stories. I love both, so this fit in my life nicely. All the traditions of Christmas are included and put me in the mood for the season.

    I was given this book by NetGalley and by Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

    Tuesday, November 14, 2017

    Cook Book Review: More-with-Less (40th Anniversary Edition)

    I purchased an edition of this book 30 years ago and I loved it. When this edition came out, I was convinced that I would feel the same about it. I do.

    This book has been filled with recipes used by the Mennonite people. It helps the consumer look at the food that we consume, like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes etc. Preferably, these should come from local sources. To show some of the missions that the Mennonite people serve they include pictures from around the world using local resources.

    I found the recipes were easy to follow and, unlike so many other cookbooks, do not take forever to create. I enjoyed this version as often as I did the first one I owned.

    I was given this book by NetGalley and Herald Press in exchange for my honest review.

    Monday, November 13, 2017

    Book Review: Life-Changing Miracles

    James Stuart Bell brought together a book filled with stories that will inspire others. I feel that there is at least one or two stories that will speak to the reader's heart and sole. For myself I enjoyed A Walking Miracle, Circle of God's Arms, God Had Other Plans and Finding Faith in Foreign Land. Each one touched me and, in part, told a story from my own life.

    I highly recommend this book to others. I give it 5 stars.

    I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

    Saturday, November 11, 2017

    Book Review: Managing Bubbie

    Managing Bubbie by [Lazega, Russel]Russel Lazega's grandmother escaped from a nursing home, which is pretty easy for someone that escaped a concentration camp. Her family help support her decisions. This was not always easy but the story made a wonderful, loving, humorous book. It will help to share with others that caring for loved ones does not have to be filled with problems.

    I was given this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.

    Friday, November 10, 2017

    Book Review: The Trust

    Liam Taggart had to return to Northern Ireland for his uncle's funeral. He was not happy to return as when he left there were bitter feelings with his family. He discovers that his uncle had foreseen his own murder and that his estate was left to a secret trust to be released when the killer is discovered. This left many questions. Liam decides to investigate which leads to many old secrets. He is now in a tempest as he has been named as sole trustee.

    This is a well-written and intriguing book and even though this is the first book I have read in the series, I enjoyed it and was easily drawn in.  It was well-researched and each page was filled with twists and turns. I recommend this book to those that enjoy a good historical whodunit.

    I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. 

    Thursday, November 9, 2017

    Book Review: Loving Luther

    Loving Luther by [Pittman, Allison]Katharina von Bora was raised in a convent. It was easy for her to call her father God, after all this was her life. Eventually she takes her vows but soon an uneasiness comes upon her when she finds the writings of Martin Luther. This led her to wonder if this is all that she is supposed to have. She leaves the convent but not the trust she found in God. She finds a shelter through Luther's friends, but still she craves more...a home and a husband.

    I have written works by Allison Pittman before and they have all been well-written. I found the research into the people to be well-done. I felt like I was living the life with Katherine. We find how she is shaped into the woman she becomes. I loved this story.

    I was given this book by Tyndale House in exchange for an honest review.

    Book Review: Perfectly Undone

    Cooper has just proposed to Dr. Dylan Michels, a woman who has worked for the life she has. Instead of accepting the proposal, which would seem the most natural thing for her to do, she says no. She has spent her entire life trying to be perfect....as a daughter, partner, doctor, yet she has never been able to get over the death of her sister. In order to accept Cooper's proposal, Dylan must face the role she had in her sister's death as well as the information that Cooper sends her way.

    This novel about forgiveness and looking-forward was so well-written, I had a hard time putting it down. The characters were rich and true-to-life.

    When I first picked up the book, I did not like Dylan at all, but after she looks back at her life and decides to make some changes, she held more appeal for me. I found this book to be more enjoyable than I thought by the description and recommend it  highly.

    I was given this book by NetGalley and Harlequin in exchange for my honest review.

    This book may be found at Amazon HERE!
    or
    Barnes and Noble HERE!

    Friday, October 6, 2017

    Book Review: The Truth

    The world of Ankh-Morpork may not be ready for the newsletter, Ankh-Morport Times. This publication was created by William de Worde, a journalist who has a gift for investigating. This skill has created enemies who now want to stop his presses. Soon they create The Inquirer, a tabloid which deals in items that are not the truth.

    DeWorde found out Lord Vetinari, the city's patrician, has a story which could cause big trouble. DeWorde, discovers that the truth is something that is needed to reveal the entire story.

    I love the works of Terry Pratchett and his stories in DiscWorld. He was such a genius when it came to crafting words in subtle ways so they make you smile just looking at the page and anticipating what is coming up.

    I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys these books or to those that enjoy fun fantasy.

    Book Review: The Other Einstein

    This is the story of Mitza Maric, Albert Einstein's first wife and the mother of three of his children. There is so much to tell about this fascinating woman. She was brilliant and was a partner in many of the couple's theories. Today it is still a hot issue as to how much input she made into Einstein's Theory of Relativity.

    Mitza was one of the rare girls in her time allowed to get a higher education however she became a fellow student of Albert Einstein and proved herself in the study of physics. However, she competed against five other male students in a male-taught class. However, the friendship she developed with Einstein turned into a partnership she was not looking for but challenged both of them. However, can marriage survive when there are two highly intelligent people in a marriage.

    I was given this book by NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark in exchange for my honest review.

    Tuesday, September 26, 2017

    Book review:Jacob's Ladder Reading Comprehension Program Grade 4

    Jacob's Ladder Reading Comprehension Program appears to be a good resource for homeschooling teachers who are looking for a curriculum to help them build confidence in their own skills. The introduction gives background on the reasoning behind it,plus it shows the ladder concept which helps childrens' comprehension to grow.

    Some of the genres include myths, poetry and non-fiction.

    I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

    Friday, September 8, 2017

    book Review: 67 Shots: Kent State and the End of American Innocence

    In my house, we talked very little about Vietnam, or the violence with the IRA. I suppose that is why certain days live in my mind, this is one of them. I was only ten at the time but I remember this violence in my home state. Three days of protest, more students than I could count and then the National Guard. It was so hard to believe in 13 seconds, 67 shots could be issued and four lives killed.

    The author, Howard Means, did a good job with the oral-history collection and interviewing to relay this story from those who were there. I feel he was able to describe the tension and the anger surrounding this time. Not only of those there but across the nation. From the President, the Governor, the Mayor and so on, each are examined to help us to reflect on that day and, hopefully, stop it from happening again.

    Very good. I was given this book by NetGalley and Perseus Group Books, De Capo Press in exchange for my honest review.

    This book may be purchased HERE! at Amazon

    Saturday, September 2, 2017

    Book Review: Twenty-eight and a half wishes

    Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes (Rose Gardner Mystery, Book 1) by [Swank, Denise Grover]This is another one of those books that is hard to put down. It is so much fun.

    Rose Gardner works at the DMV. One Friday afternoon she sees a vision. In the vision she is dead. This is not unusual, having visions, but they are usually mundane everyday occurrences. this is the first one she has had of herself. Her mother, a person who never showed much love to Rose, is murdered. This leaves two problems: the blood stain and Rose is considered the victim.

    With her vision and her status as being a suspect on her mind, Rose decides that she has wasted 24 years. So she makes a list of 28 things she wants to do before her vision comes true. Her neighbor, Joe, helps Rose with the list, except number fifteen - do more with a man. Soon, even though he is new in town, Rose realizes that he has secrets.

    Rose has also discovered that someone thinks she has something that they want. They have threatened her, broken into her house, murders someone else, in other words they will do what they have to in order to get the item back again.

    The cover pulled me into this book and I was hooked by the middle of the first chapter. The characters are well filled out. We find out about Rose's mom and how she has affected Rose's life. Every character shows imperfections which will make you want to scream at them at times, but if you keep reading the next sentence may make you smile again. The situations which Rose gets into are so hilarious. But there is also a mystery to solve throughout the book.

    I feel like this is a fun read that many would enjoy, if you enjoy a cozy mystery this will be a nice additions, also.

    I was given this book by the author, Denise Grover Swank, in exchange for my honest review.




    Book Review: The Assault, harbingers cycle two

    The Assault (Harbingers): Cycle Two of the Harbingers Series by [Peretti, Frank, Myers, Bill, Hunt, Angela, Gansky, Alton]I have loved each of these authors individually, so I was hoping for the best when they appear in one book. It began as a game with just a few rules. Each of the authors, Bill Myers, Frank Peretti, Angela Hunt and Alton Gansky would write their entry as if they were one of the characters. The second rule stated that they would write it like a television series. So there would be one storyline over all where each person would place their story, from their character's point of view. They were successful with their first attempt and this is their second.

    Each of these stories involve four gifted people who are fighting a growing darkness. Bill Myer's "The Revealing" has them in Rome looking for the mystical spear Hitler once had. This was also the spear that pierced Christ's side. This led them to many places they did not expect. Frank Peretti wrote "Infestation" where a microscopic evil was released on the world. This evil deceives, blinds, kills and then moves on. Angela Hunt's "Infiltration" has the team barely staying together. They have been injured and separate. Soon they realize they are now in dangerous situation. "The Fog" by Alton Gansky has a supernatural mist that is unleashed. Dangerous things are in the fog. These things kill the things or people they find. One of the members of this group realizes that the ultimate sacrifice is called for.

    Such an exciting and gripping book. I had not read the first book in the series, but I am on the lookout for it now. I did not have any issues coming in with this book. I caught on very fast as to who was who and what was going on.

    It is amazing how even though each of these stories are individual stories, they come together so well. A huge advantage to this is one of the stories in here can be read alone, yet you know when the book is picked backup it will continue from a different point of view.

    I found this an exceptional project. I highly recommend it especially to those who enjoy episodic stories

    I was given this book by Bethany House and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.



      Friday, September 1, 2017

      Book Review: Bringing Maggie Home

      Bringing Maggie Home: A Novel by [Vogel Sawyer, Kim]It has been a while since I have read a novel by Kim Vogel Sawyer. I am so glad that I picked up this book. It was like seeing a friend who you haven't seen for a long time.

      In Bringing Maggie Home, the main character is Hazel DeFord. When she was ten, her sister, Maggie, who was three, disappears while the two girls are berry picking.

      Now, almost seven decades later, it is still a mystery as to what happened all those years ago. Hazel has kept this as a guilt as she feels responsible since she was the older sister. This feeling has kept her from becoming close to her own daughter, Diane. Diane does not understand why her mother was almost paranoid about her protection. Diane's daughter Meghan, loves her grandmother, including all the attention.

      Meghan takes a leave-of-absence after a car accident which makes all three women living together for a while. While there the secret guilt of Hazel's comes to the surface and causes Meghan to wonder if she will be able to solve this case.

      What good writing. I wanted to continue reading to the end so I could find out what happened all those years ago. I love it when this happens. It really touched my heart, even with a subject which almost made me not read it. This story changes points of view throughout, plus time periods. This is handled in such an effortless manner which shows the skills of the author. I felt like I was a part of each life.

      This book is one that I thoroughly enjoyed and I highly recommend it. I was given this book by Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.


      Tuesday, August 29, 2017

      Book Review: The Dream Keeper's Daughter

      Ever since Max Adair has gone missing, his girlfriend, Isabel Griffin has tried to keep going, for her and her expectant baby's sake. Previously, in her life another loved one disappeared, her mother, when Isabel was 16. Her father was overtaken by the drive to find his wife while neglecting his daughter.

      Isabel does not want this to repeat with her daughter, Fin. An archaeologist, Isabel is on a dig when she receives a call from someone who sounds like Max, however the call was disconnected before she could make sure. Now she is not sure what to do next.

      I enjoy books dealing with time travel, however, I did have a hard time staying with it. It may have been because of the main theme of the story, people missing, is a difficult matter for me to read. However, if this is not an issue for other readers, I would encourage you to try this book.

      This book was given to me by NetGalley and Random House Ballantine in exchange for my honest review.

      It may be found at Amazon HERE or at Barnes and Noble HERE!



        Sunday, August 27, 2017

        Book Review: Taking the Fall

        Brenna Battle is an Olympian in judo who is just wrung out. She is ready for a new adventure in a new place. When she and her sister begin their new life, Blythe see a no-good reporter and fall for him immediately. When he is found murdered, the weapon is discovered to be Blythe's hair brush.  Brenna is wanting to transform a ballet school into a dojo, so she can share what she loves with others.

        One local police want to make one of the sisters pay for the crime while another in interested in Brenna in another way.

        I loved this book and I highly recommend it to anyone that enjoys cozy mysteries.

        I was given this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.

        This fun book can be found at Amazon HERE and on Barnes and Noble HERE


        Book Review: William Daniels: There I Go Again: How I Came to Be Mr. Feeny, John Adams, Dr. Craig, KITT, and Many Others

        William Daniels is one of my favorite actors. I was thrilled when I saw that this book was being offered by NetGalley and University of Nebraska Press for my honest review.

        To read his story from all of the shows that I have seen in him was fantastic. This book was wonderfully written and I loved each page. Thank you for allowing me to become better acquainted with you Mr. Daniels.

        Also thank you for NetGalley and University of Nebraska Press for allowing me to receive this book in exchange for my honest review.

        This book may be found on Amazon HERE! and on Barnes and Noble HERE!







        I received a free electronic copy of this autobiography from Netgalley, Bill Daniels, and University of Nebraska Press, Potomac Books, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all, for sharing your work with me.

        William Daniels is one of those actors you 'know' as soon as you see their face, you can do the whole filmography by heart, but the name.... Not fair, is it, but he played an important roll in the lives of us baby boomers. The respect is there, for the memories and life lessons learned, even if the name escapes us. This memoir brought back lots of those memories, and lots of laughs, as well. I managed to skip TV most of the 80's and 90's so I will be catching up on Dr. Craig soon if Netflix carries it. I do remember KITT though I saw few of them, as well. My memories go to films, The Closer and Grey's Anatomy - and he was in a bunch of them. Thank you, KITT - Dr. Craig - John Adams, for the memories....

        I received a free electronic copy of this autobiography from Netgalley, Bill Daniels, and University of Nebraska Press, Potomac Books, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all, for sharing your work with me.

        William Daniels is one of those actors you 'know' as soon as you see their face, you can do the whole filmography by heart, but the name.... Not fair, is it, but he played an important roll in the lives of us baby boomers. The respect is there, for the memories and life lessons learned, even if the name escapes us. This memoir brought back lots of those memories, and lots of laughs, as well. I managed to skip TV most of the 80's and 90's so I will be catching up on Dr. Craig soon if Netflix carries it. I do remember KITT though I saw few of them, as well. My memories go to films, The Closer and Grey's Anatomy - and he was in a bunch of them. Thank you, KITT - Dr. Craig - John Adams, for the memories....

        Friday, August 25, 2017

        Book Review: Best Poems of the Bronte Sisters

        I enjoy the works of the Bronte sisters and I am a poetry lover, so this title called my name. The Best Poems of the Bronte Sisters is published by Dover Publications. This collection contains work from each of the sisters and whereby their style is similar, their differences also speak out through their poems. Charlotte's poetry is based on her reflections of her sisters. Where Emily's are on the darker side of life.

        I feel this is a good collection of poetry which represents each of the sisters well. Those who enjoy poetry, especially that which is written in the 19th century should turn to this book. It will become a welcome addition as a collection of great poetry.

        I was given this book by Dover Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

        This book can be found at Amazon HERE! and Barnes and Noble HERE!


        Thursday, August 24, 2017

        Book Review: Delicious and Suspicious

        Delicious and Suspicious (A Memphis BBQ Mystery Book 1) by [Adams, Riley]This book is set in Memphis, at Aunt Pat's barbecue restaurant. Aunt Pat is actually Lulu Taylor's Great aunt. Lulu runs this restaurant which has a reputation for great ribs. Now, however, there has been a murder.

        The victim is Rebecca Adrian, who came to the area for the Cooking Chanel Show. She was hoping to find a restaurant with great barbecue, now she is dead. Everyone is sure that her death was the doing of Aunt Pat's restaurant, so Lulu decides to investigate to put their reputation to the good again.

        I love a good cozy mystery, and Delicious and Suspicious fit the bill perfectly. Riley Adams filled this book with Tennessee charm and made my mouth water for a taste of the barbecue from Aunt Pat's restaurant.

        I felt like the characters were complex and real, plus, it kept me turning the pages to find how the mystery was solved.


          Thursday, August 17, 2017

          Book Review: The Hidden Thread

          Anna Butterfield is living with her uncle since the passing of her mother. Her uncle, a silk merchant, lives in London. While there her uncle is supposed to find a match for her. Someone who can support her father and sister, also. Henri is a French immigrant. Working as an apprentice weaver, he dreams of one day being a master weaver. When the weavers protest for a better wage, Henri becomes involved.

          First, I was given this book my NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark in exchange for an honest review.

          I found this book very interesting. I thought I knew a lot about English history but I had never heard of the silk riots. Set in the 1700s, I found the author's description of silk weaving interesting. I believe her research into this time and the silk business to be extensive.

          This historical fiction includes areas that fascinate me, including silk, honor, hope, love, vision, and so much more. I highly recommend this book.

          This book can be found at Amazon HERE or at Barnes and Noble HERE!







          •  


          Tuesday, August 15, 2017

          Book Review: Two Nights by Kathy Reichs

          If a book is written by Kathy Reichs, it will be good and it will be a thriller. This is no exception.

          Sunday Night, Sunnie, has demons she needs to conquer. Physical and Psychological ones. She has a very independent, perhaps reclusive live, however, when there is a bomb explosion, followed by a little girl who is missing, she cannot turn down the family's request for aid. While helping, Sunnie realizes facing her own  secrets may help her to figure out many puzzles.

          This was such a thrilling book, but it is not for the faint-of-heart. There is violence. As I was reading it the writing was so vivid and the plot was so clever. It is not a book that I could put down easily.

          I received this book from NetGalley and Random House Publishing - Ballantine in exchange for my honest review.
            • This book may be found at Amazon HERE or at Barnes and Noble HERE


            Monday, August 14, 2017

            Book Review: Reading With Patrick: A Teacher, a Student, and a Life-changing Friendship

            After she graduated from Harvard, Michelle Kuo decided to join Teach for America. this sent her to Helena, Arkansas. This part of the country is poor and still feels the effects of slavery. She finds one student, Patrick Browning, who she decides to mentor, in addition to her teaching. She discovers that this broken school has a truancy and gun violence history.

            Patrick is in the 8th grade at the age of 15, however, he is doing so well under Michelle tutelage. After two years, Michelle decides it is time to go to law school. After this grueling schedule, just as she is about to graduate, she finds that Patrick has been accused of murder. She feel responsible so she goes back to finish Patrick's schooling, while he is in prison. She can see his education is making a difference in this young man's life. What she wasn't expecting was the change it would make inn her life.

            As an educator, I knew exactly what Michelle was talking about. I often was amazed at how much one-on-one teaching could change the student and myself. I felt she was able to relate this so well, with such a beautiful writing style. Others who read this book could also see that this does not only speak to teachers but each one of us and the impact we can have on  others.  What an inspiration.

            I recommend this book highly.

            I am so glad that I was given this book by NetGalley and Random House in exchange for my honest review.

            This book can be found at Amazon HERE!
            This book can be found at Barnes and Noble HERE!

            •