Never a Bridesmaid ~ Review

Never a Bridesmaid 

A May Wedding Story
By Janice Thompson

Mari is so excited when her sister announces her upcoming wedding. Sure that she can help bring everything together, Mari is a little hurt when Crystal doesn't even mention her as a potential maid of honor. 

But Crystal's choice just may keep her wedding from happening. Sienna Jameson is all about Sienna and really can't be bothered by all the work involved with helping out.  Mari is determined to help Crystal have her perfect day and she just may get a little help from the best man - Derrick Richardson, who is also a star baseball player with Houston.

Unlike Sienna, Derrick isn't all about him and is more than happy to help Mari out. Mari's selfless love for her sister make an impression on Derrick.  So much so that he wants to get to know her better. Though not the maid of honor Mari is the maid with honor.

Never a Bridesmaid is a sweet story that fans of clean sweet romances will love to read.  Fans of Janice Thompson won't be disappointed with this novella from the second year of weddings.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest review.

About the book:

Can one bridesmaid undo the disasters caused by a poorly chosen maid of honor and save her sister's wedding from disaster?

Mari's older sister Crystal is getting married, and Mari is one of her bridesmaids - actually, the last in a lineup of five bridesmaids, but that doesn't really bother her. Much. But Sienna Jameson as the maid of honor? Really? She might be Crystal's best friend, but she's ditzy and undependable on her best days. When the best man turns out to be hunky Derrick Richardson, the right fielder for the Houston Astros and one of Houston's most eligible bachelors, Sienna abandons her duties as maid of honor to chase Derrick, and it's up to Mari to make sure Crystal's wedding day goes off without a hitch.

While Mari is wrapped up in dress fittings, bridal showers, and bachelorette nights, Derrick has taken notice of her devotion to her sister and her determination to make the wedding perfect. But between dodging Sienna's advances and watching Mari running around like a madwoman, Derrick is left to steal moments whenever he can to get to know this beautiful bridesmaid.

When the maid of honor shows up to the ceremony late and more done up than the bride herself, Mari fears her attempts to make her sister's wedding perfect have all been for naught. Will the bride be up-staged by the maid of honor? Will the fifth-in-line bridesmaid ever be recognized for all the work she's done? And will Mari finally have a moment to revel in the magic of a wedding and dance in the strong arms of a man?

About the Author

Janice Thompson got her start in the industry writing screenplays and musical comedies for the stage. She has published over ninety books for the Christian market, crossing genre lines to write cozy mysteries, historicals, romances, nonfiction books, devotionals, children's books, and more. She particularly enjoys writing light-hearted, comedic tales because she enjoys making readers laugh. In addition, she enjoys public speaking and mentoring young writers. She lives in Spring, Texas, where she leads a rich life with her family, a host of writing friends, and two mischievous dachshunds. Visit her website at www.janiceathompson.com. Twitter: @booksbyjanice Facebook: Janice Hanna Thompson's Reader Page

Prison ~ Review

Prison
By Toni V.Lee

When a known drug dealer uses a local church as his base of operation, he may have bitten off more than he can chew.  "Rock" is angry at God and his family and he'll do whatever it takes to grow his business in the House of the Lord - even murder.

Unfortunately for Rock he picked a church that has a detective, Sonja Grey, in its congregation and it's about to get another one in the form of Max Trent.  This is one undercover that is about to change all the rules Sonja is following - and Max is one big stumbling block.

I was recently given the opportunity to review this book published by WestBow Press.  First off I was intrigued by the book's description, but unfortunately for me the book didn't live up to my description expectations.

First off waaaay too much kissing for my reading comfort level, also some of Sonja's internalized thoughts about Max are a little inappropriate for my comfort level.  I had trouble following some the lingo the various characters used - I just didn't get it, which I will admit was my issue not the book's (I think).  The plot was a tad predictable in places.

This book will appeal to many readers who just want diversionary reading for a few hours.  This is one book that personal taste is an important factor in whether or not you will enjoy it.

I was provided a copy of this book through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest review.                                                    


Book Description

Sonja Grey, a narcotics detective, and her nemesis, Max Trent, are handpicked to go undercover to capture a thug—Johnny Stone, aka Rock—who’s dealing drugs at Sonja’s church. Their operation is unwittingly aided by the interference of Sonja’s eccentric aunties. For Max, this assignment has two objectives: get their villain and capture Sonja’s heart. Will Sonja break free of the shackles of her past and embrace Max’s love, or will they be destroyed by danger?

Dawn of Destiny ~ Review, Author Interview, and Giveaway

Dawn of Destiny
Epic Book 1
By Stephen Lee

Earth is under attack from various species, the Bakma seemingly the most vicious and persistent in their attacks.  Earth's defense is found in EDEN - Earth DEfense Network.  When a Bakma attack takes out almost an entire platoon - Falcon Platoon is rebuilt with rookies - a highly unusual situation, but necessary considering the state Falcon Platoon finds itself in.

It is to Falcon Platoon based out of Richmond that Scott Remington finds himself stationed. Scott never wanted to go to war, but he feels that this is something he has to do, that this is something that God wants him to do.

Scott more than proves himself to the surprise of everyone, but his success may prove to be more curse than blessing.

The audio version of this book is very impressive.  Dawn of Destiny is more than just a narration. This is an extrasensory experience  with a full cast performance and background sound effects that add a depth that one isn't normally treated to in an audiobook.

Though there is plenty of action this is more of a character driven story. And more than anything this is Scott's story.  This is truly an EPIC performance that you don't want to miss!

I was provided a copy of this audiobook by the author through iRead Book Tours in exchange for my review and participation in this tour.

Interview with Lee Stephen:

1. Do you write anything besides science-fiction?

Yes! I’m actually starting a new series that’s totally outside of science-fiction and that I’m very excited about, but I really can’t talk about it yet. I’m also working on a few other projects that fall outside the realm of sci-fi, but they’re mostly conceptual at this point.

2. In today’s tech savvy world, most writers use a computer or laptop. Have you ever written parts of your book on paper?

Though I’ve never written any actual novel material on pen and paper, I do prefer pen and paper for my notes.

3. As a new dad writer, how do you balance your time?

My son comes first. If I’m writing and he runs up to me to play, the laptop closes. I can find time to write later!

4. What is the last great book you’ve read?

I’m currently reading George W. Bush’s Decision Points, which is a fascinating read regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum. I read almost exclusively nonfiction. I’m too competitive to enjoy fiction, sadly.

5. What’s the scariest thing that ever happened to you?

Being diagnosed with cancer at age 31. I have mycosis fungoides, a rare form of incurable lymphoma. The good news it’s that it’s a manageable cancer, so it shouldn’t kill me, but it still puts life in perspective. 

Book Details:
Book Title: Dawn of Destiny (Epic #1) by Lee Stephen
Category: Adult Fiction
Genre: Sci-fi
Publisher: Stone Aside Publishing, L.L.C.
Published: November 2006
Available in: Print, ebook (mobi for Kindle and ePub) and audiobook 

Content Rating: PG-13 for violence and depictions of war. There is no profanity, sexual content, or drug use.

Book Description:

Some men go to war for the glory. Some men go to war to escape. For Scott Remington, war is entirely different. It is a belief. It is a calling. It is a destiny. Leaving everything behind—his fiancée, his future, his life—he embarks on a mission of faith into a battle he can barely understand. This is his story. This is his war. This is only the beginning.

Audiobook Description:

The Dawn of Destiny audiobook project is a full adaptation of the first book in the Epic series. It's not your typical “audiobook,” even though technically that's what it is. When people hear “audiobook,” there’s a certain type of thing that usually comes to mind. Most likely it’s the thought of someone reading a book to them, occasionally with music playing in the background. This isn't that.

What you’re going to hear in this project, is more of an audio “experience,” the audio equivalent of a summer blockbuster movie. Over thirty voice actors played a role in this. This is ear-splitting sound effects, bombastic music, and characters shouting back and forth in the middle of a war zone. This is unlike anything you've ever heard.

Publisher: Stone Aside Publishing, L.L.C.

Published: October 2014
Length: 9 hours, 47 mins 

​Meet the Author:

​Born and raised in Cajun country, Lee Stephen spent his childhood paddling pirogues through the marshes of South Louisiana. When he wasn't catching bullfrogs or playing with alligators in the bathtub (both true), he was escaping to the world of the imagination, creating worlds in his mind filled with strange creatures and epic journeys. This hasn't stopped.

Now a resident of Luling, Louisiana, Lee spends time every day delving into the world of Epic, the science-fiction series that has come to define him as a writer and producer. Alongside his wife, Lindsey, their son, Levi, and their dog, Jake, Lee has made it a mission to create a series that is unique in its genre—one unafraid to address the human condition while staying grounded in elements of faith.

In addition to writing, Lee works full-time for the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. He has also spent time as a church deacon, guitar hobbyist, and New Orleans Saints season ticket holder. He is a graduate of Louisiana College in Pineville.

Connect with Lee:  Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook

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All Dressed Up in Love ~ Review

All Dressed Up in Love

A March Wedding Story
By Ruth Logan Herne

Greg Elizondo knows law but when it comes to weddings he is clueless.  Unfortunately for him his lack of knowledge just may cost him his mother's struggling bridal shop.  And unless a miracle happens he just may lose it all this week-end.

Fortunately for him Tara Simonetti loves weddings and anything bridal and most importantly she's seen his notice for needed help.  And Greg is desperate for help and Tara just may be the miracle he needs.

And there may be just a spark of attraction between them, but there is a problem.  Greg is an up-and-coming lawyer in a large firm and Tara has a problem with lawyers who focus on the all powerful $ and the up-ward course of their career.  

But sometimes what we see on the surface isn't what lies beneath.  Can Tara see Greg as more than a lawyer?  And is Greg more than his job?  Sometimes it takes a seemingly random event to change how we look at others and how we see ourselves.  

All Dressed Up in Love is a sweet story that will have you wondering if there will be a wedding in the end.  Sometimes our dreams change and for a happily ever after to be a possibility two dreams just might need to be reworked.

This is a perfect week-end read or a way to unwind after a long day.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Book:

Greg Elizondo hadn't bargained for this. Any of this.

Satin. Lace. Tulle. Pearl inlay, embroidered bodices, and Swarovski crystals.

The bridal shop business it took his mother three decades to build, the enterprise that covered his university and law degrees in full, was struggling because he might be part-genius when it came to contract law . . . But corset-style gowns with a mermaid flair? Shoot me now.

Tara Simonetti hated law school, but loved the community grant funding her presence at Temple University's esteemed school of law. She could not fail. Would not fail. But when a notice for bridal store help appeared on the community notice board, Tara applied for the job immediately. While grants and loans helped pave her way, money for food was scarce. Legal precedence, moot court, and judicial clerking all had their place, but they were nothing compared to Alcenon lace, tucked silk skirts, and a well-placed peplum.

Greg had grabbed her help as the act of a desperate man. Within weeks, he was desperate again, this time to win her heart. But after using community funds to get her degree, how can Tara turn her back on the people who helped finance her goal?

But if she leaves Philadelphia and Greg to return to her small-town in northern Pennsylvania, she'll be leaving her heart behind. A heart he won, fair and square by posting a help wanted notice on the coffee shop board . . . A heart that filled the missing niche in his mother's acclaimed bridal store. A heart Greg longed to cherish forevermore.

About the Author:

Award-winning author Ruth Logan Herne is the author of over a dozen novels for Love Inspired and Summerside Press. The mother of seven children, she loves kids and pets. She is married to a very patient man who is seemingly unthreatened by the casts of characters living in her head.

Torchlighters 10 Year Anniversary Review with Special $10.00 Promo

Torchlighters Torchlighters Jim Elliot at just over 30 minutes offers a look at the life of Jim Elliot as related by one of Auca tribe members.  Jim's passion to serve where the message of God's gift of salvation had never been heard is the driving force in his life.  He is willing to pay the ultimate price to share the love of God. At the end there are actual clips (film) of Jim Elliot, the other missionaries, their families, and the Auca tribe.  This is the perfect introduction the amazing story of Jim Elliot and the power of forgiveness.   Torchlighters Corrie Ten Boom is the story of Corrie Ten Boom and her family's struggle under German rule during World War II.  Working to save the Jewish people who were being rounded-up and taken away, the Ten Boom family gave much to do what they felt was God's will.  Corrie lost her family - her father and sister - to the imprisonment they endured. But Corrie's story ended not in the loss of those she held dearest, but rather in forgiveness and the offer of comfort to those who experienced the war as she did and even those who were responsible for the suffering she endured. Both these videos offer a hope in the eternal and the power of forgiveness and mercy. Presented in a form that children will understand and parents can enjoy with them.  These are simplified versions of the lives of modern martyrs that are well done  - educational and entertaining at the same time. Perfect for the home or church library and an excellent tool for the home-schooling classroom. I was provided a streaming video loan of these two titles in exchange for my review and tour participation. ABOUT THE JIM ELLIOT STORY In 1956, news from the steamy jungles of Ecuador spread rapidly around the world. Five young American men had been mercilessly killed by members of the Auca (Woadani) tribe - the very same people those young men had gone to serve and befriend. That seemingly senseless tragedy has become an inspirational marvel as family members of those young men have now befriended that very same tribe. This is the story of one of the brave torchlighters who lost his life that fateful day. Jim Elliot spent his youth preparing to share the Gospel with those who'd never heard it. But nothing could have prepared him for the dangers and challenges he would face in the jungles of Ecuador. The remote Auca tribe was suspicious and antagonistic toward even the friendliest gestures from outsiders. ABOUT THE CORRIE TEN BOOM STORY  Corrie ten Boom and her family repair broken clocks and watches. But as the evil of World War II sweeps through their city, a new kind of "watch" comes to their care: an innocent Jewish baby, desperately needing protection from the cruelty of the Nazi invaders. How will the ten Booms keep this baby and many others out of harm's way, and what will be the cost of serving God amidst unthinkable evils? When faith is tested, hope is tried, and love is strained, will Corrie's God prevail? This gripping episode of theTorchlighters is an amazing story of courage, sacrifice, and forgiveness.

ABOUT THE TORCHLIGHTERS The Torchlighters series began when creator Bill Curtis was reading biographies of great Christian heroes to his 10 year old daughter. After finishing a chapter about missionary Gladys Aylward, she looked up at her dad and said, "I want to be a missionary when I grow up." Realizing how clearly the power of this story moved his own child's heart, the Torchlighters Heroes of the Faith animated series for children was conceived.  "Young people are often drawn to heroes in the sports and entertainment industry," says Curtis. "Many of these figures convey values contrary to our faith. We wanted to offer parents an alternative. We wanted to offer parents the opportunity to share with their children the stories of real heroes whose lives have had a lasting impact for the Kingdom of God." The first 12 episodes have been bundled into a 12-pack. Each of the 12 discs includes a 30-minute animated story, four-lesson curriculum in PDF, feature-length documentary on the hero, and English and Spanish languages and subtitles. The episodes included in the 12-pack are:    Jim Elliot Gladys Aylward William Tyndale Richard Wurmbrand John Bunyan Perpetua Eric Liddell Amy Carmichael William Booth Samuel Morris Augustine Corrie ten Boom Get $10 off the Torchlighters 12-pack set with the following Promo Code: tl12bwb https://www.visionvideo.com/detail.taf?_function=detail&a_product_id=37823 Code will expire on June 1, 2015. Promo Codes will only work on the Torchlighters 12 pack (item #501631d).  A $10 discount will show on the cart summary on the bottom of the page.  You can also call (800 523 0226) to order and mention the promo code. Torchlighters Series Trailer To learn more about Torchlighters, visit http://www.torchlighters.org.

The Quantum Deception ~ Review

The Quantum Deception
By Denver Acey

A seemingly pointless terrorist attack brings down a plane in Salt Lake City.  The resulting fear causes  the U.S. economic market to sharply decline but the biggest concern is the resulting world wide reaction to this economic slide.

But Tanner Stone has a theory about what truly happened and the terrorist "attack" on the plane is merely a piece in a much larger puzzle - a cyber puzzle. But can he and his team find enough pieces of the puzzle in time?

Unfortunately for Tanner he is a target of these terrorists and he is now in a race against time to stop a Cyber attack and to save his life.

The Quantum Deception will keep you guessing as to what will happen next.  The terrorists seem to have inside information about the NSA's investigation, but is there a leak or have they been attacked? Determining how to stop this flow of information is imperative to their survival.

If you like excitement and thrilling suspense you need to read Denver Acey's newest work The Quantum Deception as Tanner Stone, formerly Tanner Zane, again finds himself in a fight for his life.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review and blog tour participation.

About the book:

What starts out as a calm night in Salt Lake City turns into chaos when a passenger plane crashes into the mountains. When reformed cyber hacker Tanner Stone links the accident to an ingenious Chinese computer virus, it’s up to him to prevent it from destroying the financial data of everyone in America! Thrilling, explosive, and packed with twists, this book changes everything you know about Internet security.

About the author:

Few people understand the terrifying, yet realistic threat of computer hacking like Denver Acey. Denver has spent his entire professional career in the information technology industry where he has witnessed and even thwarted actual cybercrime. From his top-secret job working for the US government to securing computer networks at Fortune 500 companies, Denver is personally familiar with hackers and their unscrupulous activities.

But over the years, Denver has become increasingly frustrated with Hollywood’s inaccurate portrayal of cybercrime. Hackers are more intelligent and more sophisticated than simple teenagers, who guzzle down Mountain Dew while playing video games. Cybercrime is a billion-dollar business that encompasses organized crime and foreign governments. For these elite hackers, the fruits of success are iconic trademarks, innovative patents, and government secrets.

Because of his unique background, Denver decided to write a book to dispel hacking myths while highlighting the tenacity of cybercriminals. Utilizing actual computer hacking concepts and scenarios that he has experienced firsthand, Denver illustrates — in a simple way for even the non-techie to understand — how vulnerable we all are to cybercrime.

Torn Asunder ~ Review

Torn Asunder 
by Alana Terry 

This is a hard book to read not because it badly written but because the story is so brutal in the hardships that two young native North Korean missionaries faced in bringing the message of God to a land repressed.  The very thinking of God is considered a crime within North Korea. Yet Hannah and Simon not only think about Him they desire to spread their knowledge and His love to those who have yet to hear of Him

But their love for one another could destroy all they are working for.  Can they withstand the torture and the threat of torture to one another to safe-guard those to whom they've shared the message of hope with?  And are Hannah and Simon willing to give up everything to bring the Message of eternal hope to a nation that has lived without hope?

Torn Asunder will make one look frankly at one's own life.  One's own problems and trials will seem trivial when compared to the lives of those lving in North Korea.  And the freedoms that we have to worship are vastly in contrast to the persecutions faced there.

Alana Terry's writing will deeply touch your heart and will move you to tears.  One can only wonder how one would fare in similar a situation.  How firmly does one believe in the face of persecution and the threat of death to the one holds most dear?  Alana writes a beautifully brutal and honest story that will make you stop and think.

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