Showing posts with label Books for 2013. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Books for 2013. Show all posts

12.17.2013

December CSFF Blog Tour ~ Merlin's Shadow Day 2

Welcome to the second day of the December CSFF Blog Tour

Take a new look at Merlin as you have never before seen him...

Merlin's Shadow
The Merlin Spiral #2
By Robert Treskillard

Merlin's Blade left one with questions... at least in my opinion.  I found the encounters that Merlin and his sister Ganieda had with the wolves interesting.  The wolves hunt Merlin, yet befriend Ganieda.  When Merlin is forced to defend his life against an attack, Ganieda blames her brother for the wolf's death.  What is Ganieda's connection to these wolves who seem intent on destroying her brother?  Merlin's Shadow continues with Ganieda's relationship with the wolves and in particular Tellyk.  

But with the death of her mother and father Ganieda has become embittered against her older half-brother Merlin.   And with the twisted manipulation of her grandfather Ganieda bitter resentment becomes all out anger and hatred.  But now, thanks to Tellyk, Ganieda has the means to exact her revenge and anyone and everyone who is willing to aid Merlin in his mission to protect young Arthur is in danger.  Something evil survived the destruction of the Druid stone and Ganieda has the power to use it and she will.... 

Ganieda is in my opinion a fascinating character.  A young girl for whom her brother was willing to sacrifice everything including his sight.  Her grandfather is willing to break her and use her for his own ends, even if it means she will have to kill her own brother.  Ganieda is a scared girl who is searching for love, but will she be able to find it or will her bitterness drive it from her life.

In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.

More from the final day of the Merlin's Shadow tour tomorrow....


Purchase Merlin’s Shadow  or visit Robert Treskillard's Website and Robert's Blog to learn more about this fascinating series and its author.

Be sure to check-out the CSFF other tour participants who will be posting
during the Merlin's Shadow tour December 16 - 18.

12.16.2013

December CSFF Blog Tour ~ Merlin's Shadow Day 1

Welcome to the first day of the December CSFF Blog Tour

Take a new look at Merlin as you have never before seen him...

Merlin's Shadow
The Merlin Spiral #2
By Robert Treskillard

To fully appreciate Merlin's Shadow and understand the various intricacies of the story you should read the first book in the series Merlin's Blade.  But if you haven't read Merlin's Blade here is a quick recap.

A stone of incredible power has been brought forth.  The evil it's unleashing will change the life of a young man, a village, and an island nation.  The future of Britain lies with a stone, a sword, and the blind son of a smith.  Merlin's Blade will entrance you, as it draws you in.  Be prepared as you enter a world of deep held beliefs and even deeper superstitions. Enter the world of Merlin before Arthur took the throne or even held the sword!

Fealty is sworn by subjects before their king in Merlin's Blade.  Merlin vows to serve both his King Uther and his son - Arthur.  Merlin's vow was sincere, unlike Tregeagle the Magister of Bosventor who made a half-hearted vow, fearing that Uther would demand more than he was willing to give - after all the villagers owed him more than the King.  And at the heart of this lack of fealty is the Druid stone that is enchanting the region.  And the people are willing to sacrifice their souls, friends, and family to satisfy a longing or greed that they refused to suppress when offered to them by the stone and its dark powers. 

But through faith in Jesu, prayer, and the disability that has been his for 7 years Merlin is able to withstand the evil. As Merlin struggles with how to free his family, friends, village, and king from this insidious delusion he becomes the man he was meant to be.  And the struggle to defeat the druid hold and the seductive power of the stone could very well cost Merlin his life.

Merlin's Blade is a fascinating look at Merlin and the faith that he claimed as his own and the strength it gave him to withstand the evil of the Druid stone.

In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.

More about Merlin's Shadow tomorrow....


Purchase Merlin’s Shadow  or visit Robert Treskillard's Website and Robert's Blog to learn more about this fascinating series and its author.

Be sure to check-out the CSFF other tour participants who will be posting
during the Merlin's Shadow tour December 16 - 18.

12.13.2013

Saving Jackie K ~ Review

Saving Jackie K Blog
By L.D.C. Fitzgerald

What you think you know about history is wrong!  President Kennedy wasn't assassinated in 1963 as the history books recorded.  A KGB attempted assassination instead took out the First Lady and we've been locked in a devastating war with Soviet Union ever since.

American freedom was lost when the nation lost Jackie K, and 3 scientists are determined to change the past...

But they need some help to accomplish their mission and to avoid the US military that has labeled them fugitives.  But time is running out literally as their pursuers close in on them.  It's now or never and something could very well go wrong.

In Saving Jackie K two scientists are imprisoned and being forced to create weapons that could destroy the world, but there is a side effect to anti-matter weapons and anti-time could be the key to changing the world and ending a war that has been escalating over the last 50 years.  

This is a title that should appeal to fans of alternate historical fiction - think Wilbur Smith.  It also reminds me of the movie Final Countdown.  Taking place in both 2013 and 1963 this is not a book that will boggle your mind with the scientific details but the various scenarios that are playing out as the different characters pursue their own agendas will keep you on the edge of your seat.  without giving anything away Jackie K is saved but the President was lost and we find out who the mastermind behind the assassination truly is!  (But you didn't hear it here and you'll have to read Saving Jackie K to learn the truth.)  

But can they return to 2013 and if they can what will their life be like?  Will they see the benefits or will there be even greater calamity?  do not miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!

I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and in conjunction with this Pump Up Your Book blog tour.


About the Author:

L.D.C. Fitzgerald is the author of SAVING JACKIE K, a thrilling adventure to rescue the First Lady. In writing a story with an unexpected twist on the Kennedy Conspiracy, Fitzgerald relentlessly researched the facts regarding the JFK assassination, and wove them into a fictional world.

The author name L.D.C. Fitzgerald is, in fact, a pseudonym representing the combined talents of two writers: Lisa D. and Dave C. Lisa is a recovering Marketing Executive, having spent two decades researching consumer insights. Dave, a self-educated computer geek, has been selling his soul to corporate America for over a quarter century.

You can visit their book's website at www.savingjackiek.com.

Connect and Socialize with L.D.C.!

TWITTER | FACEBOOK | GOODREADS | WATCH BOOK TRAILER

About the Book:
Title: Saving Jackie K
Genre: Historical Fiction/Thriller/Action
Author: L.D.C. Fitzgerald
Publisher: Ursa Minor Publishing
Pages: 378
Language: English
ISBN: 978-0-9837473-1-4

The First Lady in Danger?

Jump into the past to save her!

Enter an upside-down world where Soviet henchmen botched their mission to eliminate John F. Kennedy fifty years ago, slaying his wife Jackie instead. The unthinkable crime incites Americans and triggers an unending war with Russia.

In present day, as the two superpowers teeter on the brink of mutual destruction, a team of outlaws discovers a way to jump through time. The wisecracking felons decide to take matters into their own hands by traveling back to 1963 to save Jackie K. To fix the future, they must right the wrongs of the past.

But, their mission may go awry . . .

Purchase your copy at AMAZON

Discuss this book in our PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads by clicking HERE.

YouTube Book Trailer






Saving Jackie K Tour Page.

Dear Friend: The Power of Pen Pals and Journaling ~ Book Blast with Giveaway

Dear Friend: The Power of Pen Pals and Journaling

About the Author:

Cheri DeGroot loves writing letters and journals of her life. Pen palling helps her
make new friendships by reaching out through written letters and by computer.
DeGroot has initiated several pen pal clubs. She has three grown children and
seven grandchildren and lives in Milverton, Ontario, with her husband, Joe.

About the Book:

Title: Dear Friend
Genre: Non-fiction humanities
Author: Cheri DeGroot
Publisher: iUniverse
Pages: 60
Language: English
ISBN – 978-1-44016-146-9

Are you looking for a way to meet new people from all over the world, make new
friends, and help others? The solution is simple and affordable—become a pen pal.
In Dear Friend, author Cheri DeGroot shares the joys and rewards of becoming a
pen pal and provides tips on sharing friendships through handwritten letters.

Based on fifty-three years of personal experience as a pen pal, DeGroot details how her lifelong passion for pen palling began and how her friendships with
people from all over the United States have helped her through life’s good and bad
times. This guide demonstrates the positive aspects of pen palling—from sharing
news of family, hobbies and emotions to expanding their knowledge by learning
about different cultures and different people.

Stressing the importance of communication, Dear Friend reveals how becoming
a pen pal can help those who are lonely to find friendship, love, and happiness
through the power of the written word.

Purchase at iUniverse

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The Rat Chronicles ~ Book Blast with Giveaway

The Rat Chronicles

About the Author:
Gerald Rennie, currently working in Port Coquitlam in beer distribution, graduated High School in 1981, has a life long interest in the subject of rats. Previously published a short autobiography about experiences with them in The Rat Worshiper. Lives alone with his five rats in Maple Ridge, British Columbia.

About the Book:
Title: The Rat Chronicles
Genre: Science Fiction
Author: G.W. Rennie
Publisher: iUniverse
Pages: 204
Language: English
ISBN – 978-1-47599-934-1

An alien race known as the Xzebuliens that exists in an alternate universe has developed the technology to create a rift in our own, that appears on the blind side of the moon. They send asteroids through the rift and deflect them to land on all the major continents of Earth, containing a virus engineered to wipe out the human race, so they can leave their dying world behind after we are gone. There will however, be limitations to the virus, like how far and fast it spreads from the epicenters of the land masses that they strike making our environment toxic to humans, but not to most any other forms of life on the planet. The virus, also designed to turn the environment against humans, including the plant and animal life.

What the aliens did not count on is that the rats of Earth are affected by the virus in a way that mutates them, rendering the virus inert so as not to be dangerous to us through them, but giving them an ability to become telepathic with people through their Meta cognitive abilities that they share with human beings which is evidently lacking in other animal species. They eventually become our allies using their superior senses and intellect that work through us because of their mutated telepathic abilities and the Meta cognitive powers that both our species have in common in thwarting the alien attempts to invade.

An ancient secret the rats discover in an otherworldly alien AI database that they reveal to us through their enhanced mental abilities is so shocking it will change the way people look at rats and our world forever. The human race becomes subservient to the rats because of their accidental alien viral metamorphosis as we depend on each other for the survival of both our species….

Purchase your copy at iUniverse



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Really, A Worst-Case Scenario ~ Book Blast with Giveaway

Really, a Worst Case Scenario

About the Author:

B. P. Noland is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing team. Both had
extensive professional careers before turning to creative writing. In scientific
research, Billie published over forty papers. Paul published over twenty reports
on local and state government. In their free time, they focus on sports, concerts,
museums, travel, and family. They currently live in New Mexico.

About the Book:

Title: Really, a Worst-Case Scenario
Genre: Suspense/Thriller
Author: B.P. Noland
Publisher: iUniverse
Pages: 300
Language: English
ISBN – 978-1-47590-111-5

Mayor Ron Steadman of Centerville, New Mexico, is ready for reelection. The campaign has been running smoothly, no question. No opponent stands a chance against this powerful community leader. The election is only a month away, and the desert skies
couldn’t be bluer—that is until there’s a murder, and Ron’s wife, Val, becomes the prime suspect.

Valarie Steadman is a scientist and university laboratory director for stem cell research, but she’s not a murderer. Someone has set her up, but she wonders whether the perpetrator is out to ruin her—or her husband. She enlists the help of lab assistant Steve Janson to help her solve the crime and clear her name. Meanwhile, the mayor— who happens to be an ex-FBI agent—joins forces with the local homicide detective, Joe Maxwell, to do a little investigation of his own.

Soon, Ron and Joe find themselves near the border of Mexico, where a drug cartel that might be tied to the murder gets involved. When the FBI and DEA join the fray, things get even more complicated. It’s a good thing Ron is a politician; he knows how to change complicated into simple. Still, his time is running out. If he’s lucky, he can get reelected and save the life of the woman he loves.

Purchase your copy at iUniverse

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12.11.2013

POP Art ~ Review

POP ART
Decorating and Shaping Custom Cake Pops
By Kris Galicia Brown

Are you tired of the same old cake when it comes time to entertain or throw a party?
Well, with Pop Art your entertaining problems are now a thing of the past!

You now have a excuse have your cake and eat it too!  These delightful, cute, and, even at times, elegant Custom Cake Pops will have friends and family asking "Where did you find these???"  Imagine their amazement when you modestly state "From my kitchen."  You can fist pump in your mind though.

The directions are straight forward and if you enjoyed forming clay as a child you have it made!  This will allow the inner artist a chance to flex her wings (or his).  You'll be able to create an array of pops from adorable animals to an elegant cup of tea to a Christmas - perfect for the season.

And before you whip together a cake to make an attempt be sure to read through the book so that you are sure to have all the necessary supplies on hand.  And then be prepared for an enjoyable and fun afternoon as you try your hand at POP ART.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Cedar Fort in exchange for my honest review.


You've never seen cake pops like these! Hot Air Balloons, Pineapples, Giraffes, and Easter Baskets--cake pop artist Kris Galicia Brown shows you how to shape, dip, and decorate over 40 amazing designs. Make your cake pops phenomenal with "Pop Art"!
Whether you're a beginner or a veteran, cake pop artist Kris Galicia Brown shows you how to shape, dip, and decorate over 40 amazing designs for any  holiday or event. Learn her personal techniques, tips, and tricks to create the most mouthwatering and beautiful cake pops. 
About Kris

With a love for sweets and a passion for design, Kris Galicia Brown is a light of inspiration in the cake pop industry. Kris skillfully crafts her sweets like works of fine art.

After graduating with a degree in advertising from the Art Institute of California-San Diego, she pursued a career in graphic design and worked as lead Creative for a local advertising and PR agency. After entering motherhood, Kris founded kCreative and began work as a freelance designer and ultimately stumbled upon the world of cake pops. Her background as a graphic designer has proved to be an excellent foundation for her newest venture.

Kris's originality, eye for detail, and addiction to precision sets her apart from other cake pop makers and has landed her a global audience. Kris lives in San Diego, California, with her husband and two daughters. In addition to running her business, Goods by kCreative, Kris also teaches cake pop classes and blogs regularly. Learn more about Kris Galicia Brown atwww.goodsbykcreative.com.

12.10.2013

The Dawn of Christmas ~ Review

The Dawn of Christmas
By Cindy Woodsmall

When Sadie Yoder's heart was broken by her wayward fiancee, she was the one found at fault in eyes of most people.  Four years have passed and Daed wants her to return home.  But Sadie is determined to remain single and return on yet another mission trip to Peru.  But Daed won't hear of it, it's time for her to return home and settle down.

What's a girl to do?

When Sadie finds an injured man, she secretly gets him aid.  Soon she and Levi hatch a plan - they will pretend to be seeing each other and so lessen the demands and expectations of their respective families.

But what happens when pretend becomes real?  And when Sadie's former fiancee again comes into her life what will she do?  Can one overcome hurt and betrayal or will the lies just continue?

I do think Sadie's family and friends were a little hard on her not believing her and what she saw. But overall The Dawn of Christmas is a sweet story with some of your favorite characters from other Apple Ridge Christmas stories from Cindy Woodsmall making an appearance.  I really liked this book and would highly recommend it to anyone wanting a Christmas story with a touch of romance without an overabundance of sap included.  And this time of year sap should stay on the Christmas trees!

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review.

Learn more about The Dawn of Christmas and Cindy Woodsmall:

Dear Mr. Knightley ~ Review

Dear Mr. Knightley
A Novel
By Katherine Reay

How many of us hide away from life within the pages of a book? Well, in Samantha Moore's case life is literally passing her by as she tries to project the characteristics that she most admires from her favorite characters.  Unfortunately, Austenisms just don't play well when one is trying to connect with those who don't take classic literature quite so seriously.

When Sam is offered a grant to pay her way through college, she has one obligation.  She must write frequent letters to her mysterious and secretive benefactor - who goes by the name of George Knightley.  But Sam is not to expect any response in return. This opportunity is more than Sam could have ever hoped for - a chance to reveal the hurts and fears buried deep within her soul - hurts that have separated her from what she most needs - love!

As new worlds open to her, Sam begins the slow path towards healing.  But something could set her back if she lets down her guard.  Is she willing to risk everything to claim her dream?

Sam Moore is someone I enjoyed getting to know and her taste in books is a fun mix of classics and classic rewrites.  For me my book to get lost in for years was Lucy Maude Montgomery's Emily of New Moon trilogy and I freely admit that I projected the characters onto the people in my own life when I was at some low points.  But unlike Sam I could discern the difference between my literary world and the real world.

This is a story of growth and triumph.  It is a journey of discovery of one's true self.  Austen fans are sure to love this book!  Looking forward to see what Katherine Ream writes next as this book  was an enchanting and thoughtfully written masterpiece dealing with the human soul.

I was provided a copy of this book by BookSneeze in exchange for my honest review.


Book Description

Samantha Moore has always hidden behind the words of others—namely, her favorite characters in literature. Now, she will learn to write her own story—by giving that story to a complete stranger.
Sam is, to say the least, bookish. An English major of the highest order, her diet has always been Austen, Dickens, and Shakespeare. The problem is, both her prose and conversation tend to be more Elizabeth Bennet than Samantha Moore.
But life for the twenty-three-year-old orphan is about to get stranger than fiction. An anonymous, Dickensian benefactor (calling himself Mr. Knightley) offers to put Sam through Northwestern University’s prestigious Medill School of Journalism. There is only one catch: Sam must write frequent letters to the mysterious donor, detailing her progress.
As Sam’s dark memory mingles with that of eligible novelist Alex Powell, her letters to Mr. Knightley become increasingly confessional. While Alex draws Sam into a world of warmth and literature that feels like it’s straight out of a book, old secrets are drawn to light. And as Sam learns to love and trust Alex and herself, she learns once again how quickly trust can be broken.
Reminding us all that our own true character is not meant to be hidden, Reay’s debut novel follows one young woman’s journey as she sheds her protective persona and embraces the person she was meant to become.

12.09.2013

The Search for Isaac ~ Review

The Search for Isaac
The Outrider Chronicles # 1
By Patricia Reamy

If you are a fan of Christian Speculative Fiction The Search for Isaac should appeal to you, even if you've never read it The Search for Isaac will delight and excite!  This book in my opinion is an almost dystopian book, almost but not quite.

The Outriders are an ancient group of warriors who have been imparted gifts by God.  But as with many groups who are entrusted to protect and defend a faction has arisen within them that threatens to destroy them and their work.  Those who are determined to follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit are the Old Guard and those who have wrested control for their own purpose are known as The Tempest.

The Search for Isaac is an effort on the part of both groups to find the man who use to lead them before they splintered.  Isaac could restore what has been lost or he could be used to destroy the few who remain loyal their purpose and to God.

The Search for Isaac is an exciting and intriguing book and I have to say I am eagerly awaiting the second book in this series.  And I hope to learn more about the Outriders and their beginnings!

I was provided a copy of this book through BookFun (dot) Org and the author in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:
 There is dissension within the ancient organization of Outriders. 
Ariana Sommers is one among an elite group of warriors of God known as Outriders called to protect and defend lives as directed by the Holy Spirit. When the mysterious disappearance of The Organization’s leader Isaac splinters the outriders into two hostile sides, Ari finds herself the reluctant leader of The Old Guard faction. She is pitched headlong into a life and death struggle against her former friend Silas and the faction that now calls themselves The Tempest. Digging deep into her faith and into her own past to fulfill a prophecy and find forgiveness and restoration, Ari and her friends must travel the globe in order to find Isaac before The Tempest can reach him.

Quest and Honor ~ Review

Quest and Honor
Flin's Destiny #4
by Erik Olsen

Save the World -
or Save Himself

When we left Flin in Raggleroot he was out of phase with the rest of time - a direct result of Parcell's theft of the Time Continuum Glass.  Time is slowing down and unless he can restore the Glass to its rightful place the world will soon end!

What follows is another exciting and dangerous adventure deep within the earth.  Encounters with Trolls and dark forces add to the excitement.  War is coming and Flin may very well be the only one to stop it...

In addition to saving the world Flin must save a unique and dying race - the Loft Laggenders, battle Blade, save the Cathedral, and help the Leprechauns return to Clover Cavern.  No small task for anyone, but he isn't just anyone Flin is the great-great-great-grandson of Hovgard and he has a destiny to fulfill!

Quest and Honor is a fantastic continuation in the Flin's Destiny series.  One added bonus is that we are given a glimpse of the families who were left wondering 3 years ago when they were lost to the surface world.  Parcell, Sump, and Ruel are still causing trouble for those in Cobble Cavern but they are no longer a united front, if one could ever think them united.

And Flin is left with a choice.  A choice that could very well cost lives.  What he decides will determine his destiny.  What will he decide?  Read Quest and Honor to find out.  Trust me you won't be disappointed!

In exchange for my review and participation in this Cedar Fort blog tour I was provided a copy of this title.  All opinions expressed are my own and no expectations were placed on it.



“You and only you can save the world, Flin Newby!”
“Me? I can’t even save myself at this moment,” Flin muttered.
“Get up before it’s too late!”



Quest and Honor
(Book 4 of Flin’s Destiny Series)
Erik Olsen

Things look bad for Flin’s underground world. The Time Continuum Glass is missing, Flin is stuck in another time dimension, and the anemone that protects Cobble Cavern is dying. Along with that, Flin’s enemy, Blade, is on the move, searching for a way to keep everyone trapped below the ocean.

Even more disturbing than these problems is the secret that was revealed to Flin deep inside a mysterious cavern. He has seen his future—a fate he doesn’t want to fulfill. Packed with magical creatures, old acquaintances, and new discoveries, this installment to the Flin’s Destiny series has predicaments building up faster than the inhabitants of Cobble Cavern can deal with them.

Guest Post by William Buisch author of The Ark's Cargo with Giveaway

Today's Guest Post is by author William Buisch and it relates to his book The Ark's Cargo....


 If you like romance, love, excitement, drama, adventure, exotic tales/tails and situational comedy, I have just the right book for you!  And then with the ever present animalistic behavior and the discussion of male prowess while being, a bit bullish at times I am sure you will appreciate and love this collection of real life stories.  Don't be sheepish or cackle at the story line!  But rather, enjoy the horsing around and the descriptions of unusual harems and the sexuality of a semen collection facility.  All of this and more is included in the award winning book entitled, “The Ark’s Cargo: For the Love of Animals!
     The memoir is about an International Veterinarian who worked in poverty stricken areas of the world including that of working in Haiti, the jungles of Panama, in Colombia in areas under the control of drug lords, in Mali, along the road to Timbuktu and in Kenya where the Maasi believe they own all of the cattle in the world. 

     The stories include efforts to improve the health and welfare of both wild and domesticated animals in order to improve the well being of the human populations living near by.  While the episodes may get a little wild at times, each adventure doesn’t necessarily achieve the success hoped for.  Nevertheless, the lessons learned and the relationships developed established long lasting effects of international trust and respect that will last for years to come!

     Having worked with the Wild Mustangs in Colorado and Nevada may be the highlight for some.  But facing the terror of a black jaguar, or being “attacked” by a Battalion of Troops, or facing a native with a shield and spear aimed at one’s heart; will often attract the attention of others.  And then there is the matter of the ever “screwing” Screwworm Fly; the experience of shipping cattle in a school bus; or the experience of being an unseasoned seaman in the North Atlantic.  All I can say is; this is only the beginning!  And as such, do enjoy!!!

ABOUT THE ARK’S CARGO

This memoir describes the challenges a young man faces in achieving his dream of becoming a veterinarian. Even a period of homelessness and limited resources do not interfere with his commitment to achieve success. And this is only the beginning! Soon he is faced with the challenges of working in the jungles of Panama, facing the ravages of a roaming black jaguar and the defenses of a native village against the entrance of man or beast. Then, how about Haiti, where the Tonton Macoute militias believe in instant justice, rarely valuing life, or Columbia, where the drug lords have absolute rule. As if that isn’t enough, consider working in the African continent, along the tales surrounding the first shipment of Charolais cattle to the United States or the many facets of working with the wild mustangs in Colorado. Each exciting adventure is told with suspense, drama, and humor! Enjoy!

Purchase your copy:

Trafford Publishing


ABOUT WILLIAM W. BUISCH, DVM

Inspired by biblical passages and teachings, the author cherished his work as an international veterinarian. His passion for improving the health and welfare of domesticated and wild animals is most noteworthy. Working within diverse cultures, he observed vast health improvements in animals and, as a result, in people living nearby.

Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash!

Terms & Conditions:
  • By entering the giveaway, you are confirming you are at least 18 years old.
  • One winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter to receive one $25 Amazon Gift Certificate or Paypal Cash.
  • This giveaway begins September 9 – January 3
  • Winners will be contacted via email on January 4 2014.
  • Winner has 48 hours to reply.
Good luck everyone!

ENTER TO WIN!



 Blog Tour Schedule 4
December 9
Guest blogging at Blooming with Books
December 10
December 11
Guest blogging at CelticLady’s Reviews
December 12
Interviewed at Review From Here
December 18
Guest blogging at Acting Balanced
December 19
Guest blogging at Moonlight, Lace and Mayhem
December 20
Guest blogging at Bibliotica
December 23
Guest blogging at Every Free Chance
Guest blogging at Crystal’s Many Reviews
December 24
Guest blogging at Sapphyria’s Book Reviews
December 26
Guest blogging at Raven Reviews
December 27
Book reviewed at My Devotional Thoughts
December 30
Guest blogging at Ali’s Books
December 31
Guest blogging at Allvoices
January 1
Interviewed at I’m Shelf-ish
January 2
Book reviewed at Review From Here
January 3
Interviewed at Literal Exposure
Book reviewed at The Self Taught Cook

12.08.2013

How Did They Do That? ~ Review

How Did They Do That?
Career Highlights, Triumphs, and Challenges
By Deborah Tompkins Johnson

Touching on the lives of 12 different people who have succeeded in their lives, we the reader are taken on a journey of triumph.  Many times adversities have to be overcome in order for the person to achieve their goal.

In each case the person was focused on their goal and they made the effort to achieve.  Education and the support of those in their lives is a common thread running throughout their lives.

Each story is told from the perspective of the person about whom is the focus, which adds a distinctive and unique flavor to each. This book would be a great gift to give to a young person in your life as it would be an encouragement to them as they determine the path that they are about to forge for their own life.

I was provided a copy of this book by BookFun (dot) org and the publisher/author in exchange for my honest review.

About How Did They Do That: Career Highlights triumphs and challenges

Deborah Tompkins Johnson said she wrote the book with young people in mind. “If they can read about different people, their experiences, they can find that helpful,” she said. “I hope the book will…let them know that you have to have a plan, but almost always, the plan is going to change…to expect that. Life happens.”

When asked about plans for another book, Johnson said that for now she is focused on the success of How Did They Do That? “So happy to say this book is completed…very thankful and hope that many people will find it beneficial,” she said. Her plans include speaking engagements where she can share the lessons learned in researching the book.

“It’s ok to write in this book, take notes,” said Johnson. “Pass it on to a young person who is maybe new to their career, or graduating. Join me in this effort to encourage young people.”

52 Reasons to Believe ~ Review

52 Reasons to Believe
Concise Thoughts on the Christian Faith
By Gregg Peter Farah

52 Reasons to Believe is part of The 52 Series and it deals with reasons why one should believe in the Bible and the Triune persons of God.

This book would be perfect to give to a friend or family member who is searching.  Also this book will help you answer concerns you may encounter in your day-to-day life.

Here are a couple of tidbits that stood out for me as I read through this book:

* We are human beings not human doings.
* The Bible is supported by historians and archeology. 
* View problem passages as an opportunity to learn.
* I AM refers to God's being and His availability.  I AM is more than just a name, it is God!
* God has NO limitations, but our minds deceive us by limiting God based on our limitations.

This is just a small sampling of the truths hidden within these pages.  Truths that could very well open a whole new level of understanding.  This book can be used for individual or group study and it lends itself well for either situation.  I also think this would work well as a family study.

I was provided a copy of this book by BookFun (dot) org and the author in exchange for honest and fair review.

Have doubts about the Christian faith?

52 Reasons to Believe lets you confront your questions, disarm your doubt, and strengthen your spiritual life. It’s a devotional theology book that gives you concise thoughts on the Christian faith. Develop a stronger faith as you arm yourself with 52 Reasons to Believe.

Available in paperback or as an eBook.

FEATURING:
20 characteristics and evidences of the Bible’s reliability and how each gives us a reason to believe the Bible is true.
12 descriptions of God, each reminding us of who God is and why we can believe he is with us.
13 characteristics of Jesus, stating who Jesus is and why we can confidently cling to him.
7 traits of the Holy Spirit and how each gives us more reasons to believe.

Learn on your own or with a group, but develop a stronger faith as you arm yourself with 52 Reasons to Believe. Includes curriculum ideas and sample lesson plan.

EACH CHAPTER INCLUDES:
Reason to believe
Key quote
Did you know . . .
Link to your life
Small group discussion
Key verse
Prayer

12.07.2013

The Pandora Box ~ Review

The Pandora Box
By Lilly Maytree

A Tale of High Seas Adventure
and the Mystery of the Insane....



Lilly Maytree has created a book you won't want to put down until you get to the end and then you'll be waiting for a sequel! Unfortunately having to put it down before finishing it was a problem for me, because I made the mistake of picking it up before I went to work.  Bad choice on my part because I was left in suspense - literally until that night.  

But my wait paid off with a well deserved and greatly anticipated late night of engrossing and engaging reading. (Did that clock truly chime 4 am?  Yes, and it was a night well spent, though parting was sweet sorrow!)

D.J. Parker is onto the story of a lifetime and it may very well cost her her life!  Tales of a legendary treasure lead D.J. to Nelson Peterson and unethical practices at a state mental hospital.  After blowing the whistle, so to speak, D.J. sets off in search of the famous jewels that had been stolen during World War II.

But nothing is ever as easy as it sounds.  D.J. is being followed, someone has trashed her home, and someone has laid claim to the Pandora, can things get any worse?  Oh yeah, and do they ever! Especially when government agents get involved (at least they claim to be government agents) and D.J. comes up with a spur-of-the-moment explanation for her sudden unexpected departure.

True treasure awaits if they can survive long enough to discover it....

I was provided a copy of this book through BookFun (dot) org and the publisher Pelican Book Group in exchange for my honest review.



The Pandora Box by Lilly Maytree

While investigating mysterious happenings at a state mental hospital, journalist D.J. Parker learns the location of a famous cache of diamonds stolen during World War II. What she doesn't know is that the federal government has secretly been following the case for years. With an old journal to lead the way, she sets out aboard a yacht that once carried the infamous Herman Goering and embarks on a thrilling treasure hunt that could prove to be the adventure of a lifetime... if the captain and his partner don't turn out to be crooks. And the FBI officers following D.J. are really working for the FBI, and if the horrendous secret Dee uncovers during the investigation has absolutely no connection to the famous jewels. But just how long can a secret remain a secret? And more importantly how can a person know whom to trust?

12.04.2013

A Christmas Kindness ~ Book Spotlight


A Christmas Kindness
By C.C. Gevry

About the book:
Eight-year-old Robert is eager to share his wish list with Santa at the mall on Christmas Eve. When he meets Glenn, who has only one request for Santa, Robert is confused over what he should do. Can he cast aside what he wants and ask Santa to bring his new friend a special gift?

Excerpt:
Inside the mall, Christmas music and the tinkling of jingle bells tickled Robert’s ears. With his mother, Robert weaved through the crowd of shoppers. He smelled fried food from Burger Mart. The sweet scent of warm chocolate chip cookies from the bakery made his mouth water.


Purchase information
Kobo  

Watch the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvW-tUyxDq8:

About the author:

C.C Gevry is a children’s author from Western Massachusetts. A Christmas Kindness is her first book with 4RV Publishing. She is also a member of the SCBWI. Ms. Gevry is married with two young children and a son who is married. Visit her online at http://ccgevry.com


 A Christmas Kindness Book Blast Schedule December 4 
Book review @ IE Mommy 
Book Blast w/ Giveaway @ Blooming with Books  
Book Blast w/ Giveaway @ 4 the Love of Books 
Book Blast w/ Giveaway @ My Devotional Thoughts 
Book Blast w/ Giveaway @ Lynn’s Corner 
Book Blast w/ Giveaway @ Mayra’s Secret Bookcase 
Book Blast w/ Giveaway @ The Story of a Writer 
Book Blast w/ Giveaway @ Rose and Beps Blog 
Book Blast w/ Giveaway @ Naturally Kim 


Come back on December 19th for my review of A Christmas Kindness


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