Showing posts with label Books for 2017. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Books for 2017. Show all posts

5.14.2020

The Flying Flamingo SIsters ~ Review

The Flying Flamingo Sisters
By Carrie Seim
Narrated by Gabriel Vaughan, Bill Andrew Quinn, Jessica Almasy, Carrie Seim, Kevin Pariseau, Dina Pearlman, and Khristine Hvam


Fans of Lemony Snicket will appreciate this book. But it is better in that it isn't quite as dark. The story moves at a good pace. I love the Flamingo Sisters who are attempting to find their missing parents while avoiding their dastardly uncle. Yes, there is an evil uncle and he doesn't approve of girls being pilots. Worse he is after the legendary family treasure that must be found within the next few days (weeks time isn't fully explained here) or it will be lost forever.

The narration is good with a cast to portray the different characters. This is perfect for family listening and is just a few hours long. I will say that how it ends, one can only hope that there will be a sequel furthering the flying adventures of the Flamingo sisters. This is a fun read and one that one will relisten to just to look for clues that may have been missed the first time through.

About the Book:
By Audible Originals
Length: 2 hrs and 13 mins

This hilarious, heartfelt, and soaring adventure will delight fans of The Goonies and Indiana Jones. Performed as a 1930s radio drama, it’s bursting with humor for all ages, orchestral scoring, and some of the most talented voices on Broadway.

When their ace pilot parents (and adorable puppy) mysteriously disappear over the Pacific, the Flamingo Sisters—Flo, Faye, and Franny—escape the clutches of their evil Uncle Freidrich (who believes girls should never pilot aeroplanes) and join a flying circus. They soon become a smashing sensation, performing aerial acrobatics, wing walking, and other death-defying feats in a dazzling biplane outfitted with three cockpits.

But when the girls discover a mysterious map—which may lead them to the long-lost Flamingo family fortune—their dastardly uncle follows them on a thrilling chase in the skies. The Flying Flamingo Sisters must use wits, courage, and derring-do to solve secret codes, trek through spooky jungles, and save their parents. Not to mention themselves!

3.26.2019

The Deputy's Holiday Family ~ Review

The Deputy's Holiday Family
Rocky Mountain Heroes #2
By Mindy Obenhaus

Lacie Collier's life has once again been upended. Since her sister's death, she has been caring for her 5-year-old niece Kenzie. And now she finds herself in search of a new job - not that it should difficult to find a new one with her experience in interior design. But first, she needs to give Kenzie the best Christmas she can but with her mother's ban on all things Christmas Lacie has a problem if she plans on spending Christmas in Ouray.

Matt Stephens is surprised when Lacie Collier arrives in Ouray with her young niece in tow. But he's even more surprised when he discovers that she's going to be in the play that he's just agreed to direct. And her experience is just what he needs if he doesn't want to fail or further prove his father's less than positive assessment of him as true.

When Matt meets Kenzie there is something about her that is familiar and it's not that she looks like her mother Marissa. But when he stumbles upon the truth he and Lacie will have to work past the tension and past hurts to provide Kenzie with a Christmas she'll never forget. But Lacie's sure of one thing she's not about to lose her heart once again to Matt Stephens and maybe if she keeps telling herself that she'll succeed. But how do you tell your heart to stop caring?

Matt's determined to be in Kenzie's life after missing out on the first 5 years. But with Lacie searching for a job on the other side of the state he has some serious thinking to do. Could he convince Lacie that Ouray has everything she could ever need or want, with him at the top of the list? It may take a Christmas miracle to bring these holiday wishes true.

This is the second book in the Rocky Mountain Heroes series and it is just as enjoyable as the first book Their Ranch Reunion. Matt is living with the pressure of just never quite measuring up to his father's standards and he wants more than anything to earn his father's respect and pride. Lacie is determined to be the best mother she can for her niece but doing it all on her own comes with its own issues and she's just not sure how to do it all on her own. This is a second chance for two people who took a wrong turn along the way. I liked how this book seems to pick up fairly close to where the first book ends. For those who are wondering this is a clean gentle read.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:

A Family for Christmas
Lacie Collier is determined to give her niece, Kenzie, the best Christmas! But Lacie’s got her work cut out for her when they spend the holidays at her Christmas-averse mother’s home. With his focus on keeping his own mother’s holiday traditions alive, sheriff’s deputy Matt Stephens is surprised to see his old friend Lacie back in Ouray. He’s always regretted that their friendship became strained after he started dating her sister in high school. But it’s pure shock he experiences when he sees Kenzie, whose uncanny resemblance to Matt is undeniable. This Christmas will bring new memories for Lacie and Matt…if they can open themselves to the possibility of love,

Author: Mindy Obenhaus Genre: Contemporary Romance Publisher: Love Inspired Release Date: December 1, 2017 ISBN: ​9780373623198

3.25.2019

Their Ranch Reunion ~ Review

Their Ranch Reunion
Rocky Mountain Heroes #1
By Mindy Obenhaus

Carly Wagner loves her life in Ouray, Colorado. Though at times she has a few regrets in regard to her late husband. She has a delightful young daughter Megan. She owns and runs a successful B and B which she has hopes of expanding into the next house over. She just needs to buy out the half share that belongs to Andrew Stephens.

Andrew Stephens has just sold his company at a good profit and is in the process of purchasing another. Since leaving for college he's hardly been back to Ouray and he has some regrets especially as he was too late to say goodbye to his mother. But he's back and looking to give his grandmother's home a remodel so it can become a rental property.

With 8 weeks to get his grandmother's house into shape Andrew is more than a little surprised when Carly demands that he stop destroying her house. Hurt that his grandmother did this and never informed him of this change. And how could she give anything to the woman who broke his heart all those years ago? 

But when Carly's very livelihood is threatened Andrew does what he can to help out. He puts his skills to use to help Carly restore her inn and home. And he is about to lose his heart once again to the only woman that he's ever loved. But Carly loves her smalltown life and Andrew seems destined to be forever tied to Denver with his new business about to become a reality in just weeks. Can these two hearts find a home together or they be driven further apart than they were just months ago?

If you are looking for a staycation gentle read this would make a good choice. The story has a steady pace and is neither frantic nor draggy. The characters are relatable and not cliche as the story unfolds. If you are looking for a read that leaves you with a feel-good-feeling when you reach the conclusion this is one you'll want to add to your to-be-read pile.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:
The Rancher Next Door...
Single mom Carly Wagner is surprised to learn she'll have to share ownership of the home she's inherited with her first love--and first heartbreak--Andrew Stephens. The man who fled their tiny Western town is back and standing in the way of her dreams to expand her B and B. Now a successful businessman, Andrew has eight weeks to buy Carly out. But Carly's too stubborn to persuade--and too beautiful to ignore. When fire ravages her inn and she and her daughter move into their shared property, Andrew's in over his head. Time is running out and Andrew must decide: leave and chase another deal...or stay and chase Carly's heart.

Author: Mindy Obenhaus Genre: Contemporary Romance Publisher: Love Inspired Release Date: August 1, 2017 ISBN: ​9780373622955


12.27.2018

A Baby for the Doctor ~ Review

A Baby for the Doctor
Family Blessings #2
By Stephanie Dees

Jordan Conley's life is complicated - she's attempting to grow her equine therapy practice while working with her twin sister Claire and her foster home. But when a call for a child in need has her signing the paperwork Jordan finds herself as the foster mom to a severely traumatized young boy. With Claire extending herself with her own foster children and her pregnancy progressing Jordan feels that she can provide the specialized care that Levi needs.

When she finds herself having to deal with Dr. Ash Sheehan Jordan sees a side of him she never expected. He is more than just good looks and a different woman on his arm. He has a caring personality that extends to Levi on a personal level.

Ash understands illness having experienced it both personally and professionally he's able to connect with his patients. And Jordan's determination to give Levi the best care possible doesn't surprise him though how she's managing to juggle his care along with her equine therapy business is even more impressive.

When a potential health crisis threatens Red Hill Springs Jordan, Claire and Ash are all worried about their youngest charges and the potential danger it poses to them. Even more concerning will this set back Levi's progress?

This is the second book in the Family Blessings series and has as much if not more emotional rollercoasters. Levi's story will break most hearts when he is first taken in by Jordan and the judgments of those who don't understand his needs are almost unbelievable. Ash has a layer of complexity that is slowly revealed as the book progresses as is his special bond with his most vulnerable patients. If you are looking for a read that will leave you on a happy, heartwarming note be sure to add this one to your TBR (to-be-read) list.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:
Author: Stephanie Dees Genre: Contemporary Romance Publisher: Love Inspired Release Date: September 19, 2017 ISBN: ​9780373623075


A Family
to Call Her Own
After becoming a foster parent to a young boy, equine therapist Jordan Conley's life gets turned upside down. Little Levi is in need of an exceptional pediatrician, which means seeking help from Dr. Ash Sheehan—a man that, despite her heart-pounding crush, isn't her type. Her life is horses and hay, and she can't imagine the suit-clad doctor in a pair of cowboy boots. As a confirmed bachelor, Ash has never been nervous around women, but there's something about Jordan that flusters him, and working closely together doesn't help. The last thing he's looking for is long-term romance. But the more involved he gets, the more he wishes they could stay together…always.


FAMILY BLESSINGS:
Forging a home with love and faith

Learn more about book 1 The Dad Next Door

12.23.2018

The Dad Next Door ~ Review

The Dad Next Door
Family Blessings #1
By Stephanie Dees

Joe Sheehan is back in Red River Springs, Alabama, a place he thought he'd left behind him. But life has a way of giving you what you least expect. And he wasn't expecting anything about his current situation. Recovering from a gunshot wound, his dad recently deceased, and a twelve-year-old daughter he never knew about. And then there is the opinion of those in town who remember his reputation as a kid before the Sheehan's made him part of their family.

Claire Conley is returning to her roots - roots that she was unaware of until recently when she and her twin sister Jordan inherited their biological father's home shortly after meeting him. Claire is determined to turn the plantation home they inherited into a foster home for hard to place children. With limited funds and a tight timeline, Claire has her work cut out for her.

With Joe's need for a home for himself and his daughter, Amelia and Claire's need for help in her renovations seemingly a perfect trade-off they find themselves helping Amelia to come out of the protective shell she has erected around herself. And Claire's animals are a big part of her healing. Now if only Claire can convince the residents of Red River Springs that what she's planning on offering will be a blessing to the whole community and not a blight.

Life isn't easy but the characters encourage one another as they face the adversities life has thrown at them and they just might find love and the home of their hearts along the way. Claire, Joe, and Amelia must face the past so that they can accept the future that is waiting for them

If you're looking for a heart-warming and inspiring read give The Dad Next Door a chance. This is clean reading that deals with issues of worth and acceptance. Sometimes the best way to have good neighbors is to one yourself.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author through JustRead Publicity Tours with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:
Author: Stephanie Dees Genre: Contemporary Romance Publisher: Love Inspired Release Date: April 18, 2017 ISBN: ​9780373622771
A Place


to Call Home
Lawman Joe Sheehan is desperate to bond with the daughter he's just discovered he has. But as a virtual stranger to twelve-year-old Amelia, the task seems impossible. Until Claire Conley moves to town. A social worker renovating a mansion into a foster home, Claire is the first person to get through to Amelia. Falling for the single dad was not on Claire's to-do list. But with Joe and Amelia around, the house finally starts to feel like home. Claire's ready to fight to convince Joe that together they've done more than fix a house…they've built a family.


FAMILY BLESSINGS:
Forging a home with love and faith

4.03.2018

Clod Makes a Friend ~ Review with Giveaway

Clod Makes a Friend
By David J. Pedersen

Clod Makes a Friend is a story that shows the importance of having a friend and the crushing power of the word of a bully. Clod is a somewhat clumsy large young boy who takes after his father. While those around him exhibit magic skills Clod seems to be lacking in both magic and intellect and his teacher lets him know just how worthless and unskilled he is. But even worse Clod has no friends and the other children make fun of him and let him know that they consider him the ugliest thing they've ever seen.

But Clod has a skill that has not been encouraged by his teacher - a skill that allows him to bring to life a friend. But Ada, who is made from clay, can only exist for a short time. But the brief periods of time are enough for Clod to finally have a friend. As the years go by Clod continues to carve Ada and awaken her for slowly extended periods of time.

Clod's skill as a carver is unique and declared evil with possible ties to dark magic. But when Clod's skills are needed in the war that has drawn ever closer to his town others begin to realize that he isn't as worthless as his teacher believed. Some still fear Clod but he has his small circle of friends and Ada.

This is a delightful story that will enchant readers and there is a most unexpected twist at the end that one will not see coming. At just under 170 pages this book is a good length for middle-grade readers. Friendship, bullying, and self-worth are at the heart of this story that has a glimmer of fairytale within its woven spell. Highly recommended reading that offers some important truths.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the author through iRead Book Tours with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



Book Details:

Book Title: Clod Makes a Friend by David J. Pedersen
Category: Middle-Grade Fiction, 174 pages
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Odysia Press
Release date: March 2018
Tour dates: March 26 to April 13, 2018
Content Rating: PG (There is no bad language, but there is one "boss fight" scene.)

Book Description:

Best Friend Ever?

Bullies love to hate Clod. Not just because he’s bigger, clumsier, and uglier than his classmates - he’s also the only student in his school without magic. In a world where all magic is possible and everyone else is born with great gifts to do amazing things, Clod is alone.

Living with his mum in a broken-down cottage on barely enough, the only thing Clod has to play with is the clay she occasionally brings him. Bleak is an understatement. More than anything, Clod wants a friend. The only way that’s going to happen, is to make one himself.

After an angry visit from the worst of the bullies, his teacher Learned Yugen, Clod’s clay sculpture of a little girl comes to life and introduces herself as Ada. For a clay girl barely the size of his hand, she has more confidence and courage than he knows what to do with. Every adventure she leads him on gets Clod into trouble. She may be the friend he wants, but is she the friend he needs?

After many years, and too many pranks, Yugen becomes convinced that Clod is tainted by the evil slowly infiltrating the Kingdom of Pag. Especially when Ada isn’t the only one Clod can bring to life.

Clod Makes A Friend is a bittersweet fairy tale for all ages from David J. Pedersen, author of the Angst series of fantasy novels.


About the Author:

David J. Pedersen is a native of Racine, WI who resides in his hometown Kansas City, MO. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. He has worked in sales, management, retail, video and film production, and IT. David has run 2 marathons, climbed several 14,000-foot mountains and marched in The University of Wisconsin Marching Band and written 4 fantasy novels. He is a geek and a fanboy that enjoys carousing, picking on his wife and kids, playing video games, and slowly muddling through his next novel.

Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook


Enter the Giveaway!
Grand Prize:
Clod & Ada Gift Package, which includes:
1) an Ada Amigurumi Doll (book character)
2) a hardcover copy of Clod Makes A Friend
3) a $20 Amazon Gift Card
(open to USA and Canada / 1 winner)


2nd place prize:
Hardcover copy of Clod Makes A Friend with a $10 Amazon Gift Card
(open to USA and Canada / 2 winners)


3rd place prizes:
5 winners will get a paperback copy of Clod Makes A Friend
and
5 winners will get an ebook copy
(Open to USA and Canada / 10 winners total)

Ends April 21, 2018

a Rafflecopter giveaway


3.05.2018

Christ Chronological ~ Review

Christ Chronological
Christian Standard Bible (CSB)

This is a unique and interesting way to present the four books of the Gospel. All four books are presented in a chronological format. The four Gospels are side-by-side when they are relating the same events. When all don't present the same event only the book or books that do are on the page. This is different from a Parallel Bible in which the same text is presented in various translations/versions.

Are you thinking "Oh, how will I be able to tell the books apart?" Don't worry each book is printed in a different color. Matthew is blue, Mark is green, Luke is red, and John is purple. There are notes throughout to guide the reader along and these are in black.

The entire Gospel message is presented from before the Birth of Christ opening with John's narrative on the beginning and concluding after the Ascension with John's testimony that the world could not contain all the books that could be written about Jesus.

The textual portions of this Bible go from page 5 to page 139 which is followed by 5 lined pages for notes. The book is hardcovered and is approximately 9" x 9-1/2". The cover has in the lower portion a thorn pattern with the upper portion showing rays spreading upward as from the rising sun.

I was provided a complimentary review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:
CSB Christ Chronological provides a unique way for readers to experience the life of Christ in chronological order with each Gospel writer’s account of events side-by-side. Featuring a parallel format, commentary notes for each section to provide background and context, and color-coded text to differentiate between the accounts in each Gospel, readers are able to gain a fresh perspective on the life and ministry of Christ. 

CSB Christ Chronological features the highly readable, highly reliable text of the Christian Standard Bible (CSB). The CSB stays as literal as possible to the Bible's original meaning without sacrificing clarity, making it easier to engage with Scripture's life-transforming message and to share it with others.

2.12.2018

The Nephilim Virus ~ Review, Author Q/A and Giveaway

The Nephilim Virus
By John T. Prather

For 3 years he has been in a coma, one of four survivors of a plane crash that took nearly 140 lives. For 3 years humanity has been decimated by a virus. Waking from his coma Nick Reese is in for the surprise of his life. And his survival may be the key to humanity's survival.

An ancient evil has been awakened and it has been making its presence known ever since as an altering virus. Those infected have either lost their humanity becoming an animalistic horde that can't be stopped or super-humans that are intent on ruling the world as gods. The uninfected are outnumbered by those who have been turned into Anakim or Nephilim. And the method of infection is horrific - at least to Nick's eyes when he sees a surveillance video of the day everything changed.

But hope has not been lost and those with whom Nick finds himself have been surviving for the three years he has been absent for the wakened world. Doctor Faith Richards has been working - searching for a cure. Commander Al Harris is in charge of the security and survival of the group that has taken up residence in Mercy General. And these two are those Nick is about to place his trust in this battle to survive. What Nick never anticipated was having to face a David-and-Goliath situation.

This is a book for those who are fans of Speculative or Dystopian fiction. Using a few verses from the Old Testament John Prather has created a unique foundation for this story. Offspring of Fallen Angels have survived and are attempting to completely corrupt the world and turn it into their own. What follows is an intense page-turning read. One will literally keep the pages in motion as the story unfolds. The chapters are fairly short so it is easy to stop if the need arises. The flow is easy and the transition between character viewpoints is marked but not jarringly so.

This book is well-written and the reader is not left wondering "What happened with..." The conclusion is obvious and leaves the reader satisfied with the outcome. And if you are a dog person be on the lookout for one that has an important role to play throughout. I highly recommend this book.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the Adams Group with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



About the Book:
Book Title: The Nephilim Virus
Genre: Fiction; Thrillers; Supernatural
Publisher: Deep River Books
Content Rating:
PG

Nick Reese wakes from a 3-year-coma to find the world he once knew is gone. An ancient virus has infected two-thirds of the world's population, turning humans into either incredibly intelligent super-humans or large and indestructible animalistic creatures.

For the survivors, there is no government, no antidote, and no safety. With the help of a beautiful hematologist named Faith and a man they call the Commander, Nick must survive long enough to discover the origin of the virus and learn how his blood could hold the key to a cure. But he has to do it while hunted by the infected. And failure means the extinction of the human race.

Q and A with John Prather
Author of “The Nephilim Virus”
Q: What inspired you to write “The Nephilim Virus”?
A: I always had this idea for a story where two-thirds of the world was infected with a blood disease, but I never knew how I was going to tell it. There are several obscure verses in Genesis 6 about the Nephilim, a race of beings created from the sons of god sleeping with the daughters of men and that passage always fascinated me. One day, I decided to put those two ideas together and tell a story where I got to imagine what the world would look like if that race of super-humans were still around.
I have been a writer and lover of stories ever since I was young. My grandfather was a wonderful storyteller and I used to listen to his stories over and over to learn the rhythm and pace and punch line of a good story. I had dozens of unfinished stories lying around, but I never sat down and made myself finish one. Then in 2013, I decided it was time I finished a manuscript. And I did. And it was bad. But it showed me I could finish one. Then I had the idea for The Nephilim Virus, so I started writing that in 2014 as a short story. I knew I had to get the idea out of my head or it wouldn’t leave me alone. As I kept writing, the story kept coming. Five months or so later, I had another finished manuscript. This one seemed publishable. Now, almost four years later, here we are.
Q: What do you hope readers will experience with this novel?
A: All the great themes, like redemption and sacrifice and love, of all the great stories are just tiny versions of the greatest story, God’s story. That is the reason a reader can feel them in his or her soul—regardless if the work is Christian or non-Christian. I want readers to connect to the greatest story by reading a book that has little glimpses of that story woven into it. The overall theme of the book is the idea that every human has been infected with a blood disease, but there is a cure. I want readers to be entertained while subconsciously connecting to the truth —sometimes in ways they might not even realize.
Q: In addition to being an author, you are also an actor and model. How does that affect your work as a writer?
A: Working in the entertainment industry allows me to continually learn about people. Being an actor is a great way for me to be in touch with my own emotions and internal motivations and also to see and feel my fellow performers’ emotions and motivations. Everyone has tics and mannerisms that are specific to them and I feel being aware of these individual characteristics helps me create strong characters for my stories. It has also helps me hone the art of storytelling to see how other artists tell their own stories, whether they are writers, photographers, actors, directors, or whatever.
Q: Why do you believe this novel will appeal to both Christians as well as non-Christians?
A: My all-time favorite author is C.S. Lewis and he said something that has always stuck with me. He said, “What we want is not more little books about Christianity, but more little books by Christians on other subjects—with their Christianity latent.” The novel will appeal to Christians who like stories that can be taken seriously by the world while still holding deeper truths. Sometimes “Christian” entertainment can avoid or sugar-coat real-life topics that people deal with every day. This novel is one a Christian could enjoy and pass on to their friends who might not read something blatantly Christian. The novel has no cussing or sex, but at the same time, it has death and villains and adventure. It shows the battle between good and evil without being offensive on one hand or preachy on the other. Non-Christians will enjoy the book because it reads like a movie or a Netflix series. It has short chapters and short sentences and lots of cliffhangers. The deeper truths are hidden just below the surface so a non-Christian could read it simply for its entertainment value and not realize the Christian themes, imagery, and symbolism right away. The Nephilim Virus doesn’t talk overtly about God, but you can see Him throughout the work, similar to the book of Esther in the Bible.
Q: How difficult is it to live your faith in the entertainment industry?
A: Being a Christian is the norm in the South. Everyone has a church, even if they never go to church. In the South, it costs you very little to be a Christian. But in Hollywood, it costs you a lot. Christians are the enemy out here. No one understands them. The good thing about that is that it cuts out the lukewarm Christians. Out here, if you aren’t deep with God, you will soon be done with Him because it costs too much. I’ve been to countries where faith costs much more than it ever will here, but it probably costs more to be a Christian in Hollywood than it does anywhere else in the United States. Being a follower of God in L.A. can get you ostracized, fired, friendless, and broke. For example, I literally got screamed at by a casting director because I turned down a role that I wasn’t comfortable doing. He screamed at me about how the role could make my career and how I was a moron and other unrepeatable things. And that was one of the more tame encounters I’ve had with someone who doesn’t understand my worldview.
Another difficulty of having faith in Hollywood is that, as an actor, you often don’t get to see the whole project for which you are auditioning. The small part of the script that they show you could be acceptable, but you don’t know what overall story they are telling. So you really have to trust God to keep you away from the wrong projects. The thing people outside of Hollywood don’t understand is the difficulty of the industry. Even someone who has no morals and no qualms about doing anything in any project has a one in a billion shot of making it. Being a Christian further narrows their odds by being an outcast who refuses to do something or represent something that is against their morals. I often think of Hollywood as America’s version of “the gates of hell” that Jesus talked about. Christians out here are the tip of the spear. They are in the hottest spot. They need lots of support. But that’s ok because Jesus promised the gates of hell would not prevail.

Q: Talk about why you and your wife decided to be foster parents.
A: My wife and I met on a mission trip in Brazil where we took a medical boat down the Amazon river. That is another story for another time, but one of the first things we connected on was our desire to build a family through adoption as well as biologically. We were both big believers in adoption. We also wanted to try to save a kid who wouldn’t have a great chance at life without us. We think adoption is a wonderful thing in all its forms, but we wanted to take a child from a situation where they had no hope of a family otherwise. We aren’t rich, and we don’t have a lot, but we do have a heart for children without a family. So we decided to adopt out of the California foster care system. We were very naive as to the difficulty of that process, but we started taking foster classes and getting certified two months after we got married. We planned on having our own children first and then coming back to adopt when the time was right. It is a very long story, but God had other plans. We ended up bringing a little foster boy into our home in order to adopt him. He was later given back to a family member. Giving up my son was the hardest thing I have ever had to do.
Two months later, we brought a little girl into our home. We brought her home from the hospital and she just became a one-year-old. We are currently in the process of trying to adopt her, and everything looks good so far, but things could change in an instant. It breaks my heart and scares me to death that a social worker could call tomorrow and say, “pack up your daughter, I’m coming to get her and you will never see her again.” The foster system is the hardest thing I have ever had to deal with in my entire life, and I hope that one day I will be in a position to help make changes in the system. Until then, I’m very open and write about our journey in my blog in hopes of helping other people and shedding light on the subject. God willing we will adopt our daughter shortly after our twins are born. Then, in a few more years, we will try to adopt another child from the system.
Q: As a sought-after model, you obviously keep yourself very fit. How do you believe your physical health impacts your spiritual well-being?
A: I believe the physical body and spiritual body are closely linked. As a Christian I believe that God himself lives inside the human body. God’s spirit should permeate every part of a person’s life, including the physical and mental aspects. The Bible says to love the Lord with all your heart and soul and strength —mind, soul, and body. I think sometimes Christians emphasize the mind and soul, but neglect the body. But God asks for all three. Your physical life is your spiritual life. You couldn’t say, “my mouth is eating donuts, but my body uses it like broccoli.” It doesn’t work that way. The outside begins on the inside.
In addition to the close link of your physical life and your spiritual life there is the idea that the discipline of building your body by exercising builds discipline in other areas as well. It builds self-control (another spiritual trait). The strength to build the discipline to work out every day translates to the strength and discipline to read your Bible and pray every day. God told Joshua four times in three verses to be strong and courageous. Paul often used physical examples to teach spiritual truth. When Samson failed spiritually, he also lost his physical strength.  God asks for all of you. Every piece. Body and soul.


About John Prather:

John Prather grew up with seven siblings in Memphis, Tennessee, on a steady diet of BBQ and southern values. After graduating from the University of Memphis, he moved to Hollywood to try his hand at the entertainment industry. He has been featured in TV series such as Scream Queens on Fox as well as WWE Raw. His commercial work has included ads for FedEx, Old Navy, Burger King, and Ruffles, in addition to various other major corporations. As a model, he has been featured in national magazines such as People, GQ, Men’s Health Muscle and Fitness magazine, among others. John and his wife are expecting twins in early 2018, and hope to adopt their foster daughter very soon.

For more information, visit www.JohnTPrather.com.
Giveaway:
Win one (1) copy of The Nephilim Virus 
Open to US mailing addresses only.


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2.01.2018

Cathadeus ~ Review with Giveaway and Excerpt

Cathadeus
The Walking Gates #1
By Jeff. J. Peters

It was just an ordinary day until the attack at the Walking Gates with Merchant Tide once again upon them. The Gate Keepers are decimated so that the gate at Oak Haven is useless for the foreseeable future. But the news is worse for Braxton Prinn - his mother has been injured in the attack and to save her he needs to make a perilous journey in just days.

But why the Mins (Minotaurs) have decided to attack now is a question of utmost concern. And equally troubling is will they strike again? And with a journey to Glen Arbor in his immediate future and time against him, these concerns are of great importance to Brax and his dwarfish traveling companion Ruskin.

Hoping to provide some additional protection, Brax's father offers him his late grandfather's sword. A sword of great significance that could potentially alter Brax's future and that of Andorah. The Unicorn Blade hides a powerful secret one that will guide Brax on this journey he never wanted to make but is willing to undertake for love.

What follows is a journey of epic proportions as the fate of Andorah and entire races hang upon the outcome of the coming war - a war that none anticipated. It is a fight for survival and Brax is caught in the center of it as his destination seems to be the focus of the enemy. But Brax newfound abilities, which are linked to the Unicorn Blade, could be as deadly as the approaching enemy unless he can learn to control and temper his emotions.

With subtle nods to the genius of other greats in the world of fantasy Jeff Peters has managed by weaving a spell with words to create a world uniquely his own. And this is a world that fans of MacDonald, Tolkien, Lewis and the like might want to slip into for a visit. This, as one can conclude from the title, is the first in a series. One can only wonder after the final word is read, where this world will next take the reader.

Now for those who love maps, this book has one just after the title page. I know I love maps that help me see the world I'm discovering from the first word. And there is a phonetic pronunciation guide in the back of the book - so grab a post-it tab or bookmark before you start reading you will be making use of this page as you make your way through the book. Teen and adult fantasy fans will enjoy this new world that is relatively clean though a tad bloody due to battles.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the author through iRead Book Tours with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.


Book Details:

Book Title: Cathadeus (Book One of the Walking Gates)
Author: Jeff J. Peters
Category: YA Fiction, 344 pages
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Wise Ink Creative Publishing
Release date: Dec 8, 2017
Tour dates: Jan 15 to Feb 2, 2018
Content Rating: PG-13 (fighting scenes)

Book Description:

It has been six hundred years since the Alchemists fused together men and beasts to form strong, mindless slaves. Now, their most vicious creations have attacked the mystical Walking Gates, slaughtering their Keepers and isolating their cities. Wounded in the brutal attack, Braxton Prinn’s mother is on the verge of death and he makes a desperate journey to find the reclusive elven master who can save her. But when he discovers an ancient magic, Brax is caught up in an even greater struggle and soon finds himself hunted for his power. Drawn into the chaos of an impending war and pursued by enemies on all sides, Brax must fight to save his mother and her race from slipping into darkness. Though his untamed magic may be the greatest threat of all . . .




What Readers are Saying about Cathadeus:

“Jeff J. Peters’ strong cinematic writing style allowed me to easily visualize the story and feel that I was right there alongside the characters.”
- Alison W.

“Jeff J. Peters’ writing is so smooth and easy to read – I can’t tell you how much of a pleasure it was…and how quickly you end up being drawn into the story because of it.”
- Amanda R.

“Cathadeus is the best kind of fantasy story - you get to learn along with a flawed main character while you get lost in a richly designed world. You can’t help but keep reading. A cleanly written pairing of characters you wish you could spend more time with and an enthralling world built around them. Cathadeus is the kind of story that plays perfectly off of your imagination, with characters grounded in reality to make it feel like you could really be there.”
- Ryan N.

“Jeff J. Peters definitely has storytelling skills...The story stayed on my mind when I wasn’t reading it. Young readers will be drawn in this imaginative story, while they relate to Braxton’s struggles with temper, insecurity, and young love. Cathadeus is dramatic, with an anxious tone—at times bleak, as the story keeps you wondering until the final battle if good will prevail.”
- Elizabeth C.


Buy the Book:







Meet the Author:



JEFF J. PETERS was born in South Africa and immigrated to the United States as a teenager, where he fell in love with all things fantasy. He obtained degrees in digital electronics and computer science and worked as an IT professional for more than twenty years. In 2014, he left his corporate position to focus full-time on writing. Cathadeus is his debut novel. He is currently working on the sequel.

Connect with the author: Website ~ Facebook




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~ Excerpt ~

Sunlight touched the southern peaks of the Dragon’s Spine as Thrag completed his patrol.
The morning was cold and snow still covered the ground. The exposed parts of the
dwarf’s face were chilled and steam appeared whenever he breathed—but he didn’t care.
He loved being in the mountains, and the sharp biting feeling on his rough skin was
preferable to the heat in the mines.

Wiping the ice crystals from his beard, he lit his pipe and took a long draw before
exhaling. The light crept into the clearing, and he turned to leave but stopped abruptly. A
dozen yards away, barely visible in the snow, a dark shape broke the pristine white.
Thrag covered his pipe and checked about. Convinced he was alone, he retrieved the
small object and rolled it around in his hand, feeling the rough cuts from the crude
instrument that shaped it. Even before he looked down, he knew what it was. A totem.

Moving quickly to the nearby river, he scouted its banks. He picked up a trail and
followed it until he smelled their campfire. Two large, muscular beasts stood behind the
flames and slightly to one side, another lying further back and to the left.

Minotaurs.

They occasionally entered the Spine to hunt, wearing totems for protection that never
worked, and his kin always defeated them. There hadn’t been any significant intrusion in
almost six hundred years—not since the Breath of the Dragon wiped out their valley.

“So what ya doing in the mountains?” Thrag mumbled to himself, studying their bull-
like faces. They had furs and leather jerkins covering their human bodies, and their
weaponry was too advanced for a hunting party. Sentries, he concluded. But for what?

He needed to find out and report in, and they were too dangerous to be left alone.
Unstrapping his giant battleax from across his back, he loosened the throwing weapon in
his belt. Clenching his jaw, he readied to charge, then stopped. He couldn’t see into the
trees. Normally, he wouldn’t care, but this time he had to be sure. Someone had to report,
and something about this already had his beard on edge.

Turning around, he put his back against the boulder where he hid and called. A long,
peaceful sound echoed among the rocks. He knew the Mins would hear it, even though he
was downwind, but he wasn’t worried—he’d been a ranger for more than sixty years and
could imitate nature’s calls. His sound was strong and true, riding the wind between the
mountain pines and craggy valleys before fading away. He repeated it a few more times,
then waited. As expected, the Mins ignored it. Minutes passed, and he watched the trees.
Then a branch moved. Against the wind. His companion was closer than he’d thought, as
usual.

Time to go.

Thrag burst from the rocks, hurling his smaller ax at the Minotaur on the right as he
sprinted across the clearing. The weapon hit the beast square in the forehead, felling him.
The other Min grabbed its weapon and brayed loudly. Thrag leapt up onto a stump
directly opposite the fire, using the smoke to obscure his approach, and launched himself
at the beast. He came through the screen with his battleax held high above his head in
both hands, yelling as he appeared. The creature raised its halberd to block the strike, but
Thrag’s ax smashed into it, splitting the shaft in two. The Min stepped back to steady
itself, but the dwarf wasn’t slowing. He landed in front of it, bringing his weapon around
and striking diagonally across, hitting the Min below the knee and severing its leg. The
creature bellowed a horrific call, falling onto its newly formed stump. The third Min was
up now, a spear in hand and coming to the fight. It pulled its arm back preparing to
skewer the dwarf, but a dark form hit it from behind, sending the creature hurtling past
Thrag. The dwarf ignored it. He thrust the top of his weapon straight up, hitting the
crippled Min under the chin and jolting its head back. Raising his battleax again in both
hands, Thrag struck down with his formidable strength, burying the blade deep into the
Min’s chest, killing it.

He turned to look for the remaining beast. It hung from the massive jaws of a giant,
sleek, charcoal-gray leopard standing eye level beside him.

“About time you helped,” Thrag admonished, looking into his companion’s enormous
eyes.

The leopard gently lay the dead Min down on the ground without making a sound and
stared back at the dwarf.

Thrag rocked his head from side to side. “Well . . . thanks,” he said.

He cleaned his weapons and searched the camp, uncovering more tracks. Following
them through the trees, he found another trail leading to the old ruins.

Crossing the flattened outer wall at dusk, Thrag hid among the long shadows and
intricately carved broken stone buildings that had been cut from the mountain. He moved
carefully between the fallen rocks, stopping at an open courtyard. Giant columns circled
the perimeter, portions of the ceiling they once supported visible among the snow. Three
heavily armed Mins stood in the center, their backs toward him, facing a man dressed
entirely in black armor. Beyond them, two smaller servants waited, hoods covering their
faces.

“. . . finish preparing yourselves. We attack at first light,” he heard the man say over
the Mins’ heavy breathing.

It would take Thrag two days to return with reinforcements. Not enough time, he
thought. He’d have to stop them himself.

He crept closer, then signaled to the leopard, and charged.

Read the full Prologue