Wednesday, February 25, 2015

VeggieTales Noah's Ark Review and DVD Giveaway!!






My Review

I've watched VeggieTales since I was young and it's good to know that positive movies are still being made for kids. While obviously there are some things that aren't Biblically accurate (I don't think there was a swimming pool for the animals on the Ark), these shows create conversation about the Bible. This movie is fun and actually even from adult perspective, it gave me a new look at this story in the Bible. Shem is the leading character in the movie and he is really confused why his dad is building an ark. He just got his life started, want's to raise a family, etc. Can you imagine being in their shoes?! It would seem crazy but they still trusted God. Shem's story takes a bit longer and I think it added to the story line. There are silly things that kids will giggle at and of course Silly Songs With Larry! At the end of the movie they read a Bible verse to bring home the entire point of the film. I like that they do this because that is what it is all about.
Very good movie kids will enjoy!! I can't wait to share with my little nephews!


"Thanks to Grace Hill Media for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review."





Now..for the Giveaway!! 
Grace Hill Media has provided me with a second DVD copy of VeggieTales Noah's Ark to give to one of my readers!

Enter through the rafflecopter below. 
U.S. only please. 

Thanks for stopping by!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Fallen Book Review


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About the Book

After more than a decade as a victim of the commercial sex industry, Annie Lobert shares not only her redemption story but those of others involved in sex trafficking. (Goodreads)



My Review

I love reading about other people's lives and stories. This book is not an easy read and many times made me sick to my stomach as people continued to do horrible things to Annie. I can't imagine living her life and it's truly evident that God had plans for her to survive and write this book today.
Annie doesn't make her life seem like a dream or blame all of her bad decisions on other people. She started out innocent and then quickly the money drew her into prostitution. It's interesting because the majority of the book is set in Vegas but I feel like while it's "illegal" it's not seen as bad as long as done in secret. A lot of this book was frustrating to read because she lived an endless cycle but she explains things about that mindset. While I'm sure this book was hard to write she wrote it well and I think it's an incredible story to be heard.

Obviously there are many things in this book that you wouldn't want a very young person to read about. While she isn't explicit- she still has to tell her story.

I highly recommend if you like reading about changed lives for Christ!

"I received this book from Worthy Publishing for free in exchange for an honest review."













Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Lethal Beauty Book Review


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About the Book

Mia Quinn discovers that a series of seemingly unrelated murders are linked. How far up are the strings being pulled--and what happens when one of her own is at risk?

The murder Mia is prosecuting seems like an open and shut case--until the accused claims he was the real victim and that the dead girl attacked him first. The tabloids dub her a "lethal beauty." Still, a conviction seems imminent. Then a key witness goes missing. Just when it looks like the killer could walk free, the dead woman's mother takes matters into her own hands.

Meanwhile, Charlie Carlson, a Seattle homicide detective, is investigating the murder of a man whose body washed up on the beach of Puget Sound, but he's got little to go on. He has no dental work, fingerprints aren't on file, and he doesn't match any missing person reports. Then a church pianist is senselessly gunned down before horrified parishioners.

All three cases seem unrelated--but are they? Together, Mia and Charlie race to find the answer before another crime hits too close to home. (Goodreads)





My Review

I have read all of the books in this series and really enjoy Lis Wiehl's writing! This book was a bit of a disappointment for me as I had high expectations. I felt like I'd read a book almost exactly the same last year. The same main theme with people who come to America with hope and find they are slaves on American soil. The suspense wasn't as intense with this book but I really enjoyed the side story of Mia's family. It was interesting to read about steroids and looking at life from the perspective of a teenage boy. I think this book was well written and those who haven't read a story line like this before will enjoy even more than I did. I still give it four stars, I just wish there had been a bit more twists and storyline.

I'm excited to read her next book!

"I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for free in exchange for an honest review." 




















Top Ten Heroines from Books


 

There are so many books that I have loved and it's really hard to narrow it down to just ten women. A lot of the books are this list are more recent books I've read but there are many others. Also, if you haven't read any of these books you really should! 

They are in no particular order and thanks for stopping by and reading!
P.S. This is my 800th post! Celebrate!


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1. The Vicar's Wife by Katharine Swartz
There are two story lines in this book and I love the women in both.

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2. Chateau of Secrets by Melanie Dobson
There are two story lines in this book as well but I really loved Gisele's character! Such a great historical storyline!

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3. Submerged by Dani Pettrey
This is my favorite book in this series and I loved reading Bailey's character!


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4. Captured by Love written by Jody Hedlund
I love this time period and I really enjoyed Angelique's strength of character.


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5. The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn by Lori Benton
Tamsen's character is so fun to read because the whole story is about surviving. Love it. 

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6. A Broken Kind of Beautiful by Katie Ganshert
Ivy is a great heroine in today's contemporary mess of beauty. Her character in this book stand out to me because of it's truth. 


 7. Be Still My Soul by Joanne Bischof
Lonnie's character is tested with every obstacle and within this series I love her even more!

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8. Ten Thousand Charms by Allison Pittman 
Gloria is a hard character to read about in this book but one that has stuck with me.

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9. With Every Breath by Elizabeth Camden
Kate's character is strong and funny and good. 


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10. Anne of Green Gables by L. M Montgomery 
Anne spelled with an "E". Classic. Need I say more? 

 Marty from Love Comes Softly would be number eleven. 


I really could go on but these are some that came to mind.














Monday, February 23, 2015

The Trouble with Patience Review


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About the Book

Patience Cavanaugh has lost hope in romance. The man she yearned to marry is dead and her dreams are gone with him. Now she is consumed with the restoration of a dilapidated boarding house in order to support herself. Despite her desire for solitude, Jedediah Jones, the local sheriff with a reputation for hanging criminals, becomes an ever-looming part of her life. It seems like such a simple arrangement: Patience needs someone with a strong back to help her fix up the boardinghouse, and Jedediah needs a dependable source of food for himself and his prisoners. But Patience gets more than she bargained for as she explores the depths of the "hanging lawman"--and finds both betrayal and love. (Goodreads)


My Review

I'm all for light western romance reads. This book just did not hold my interest and I really wish it had. I liked Jedediah's character but I think the author took it a little too far with the dramatics and silliness of it all. The relationship between Patience and Jedediah seemed forced but I did like the town setting and the boarding house interested me. There are some funny moments and an overall truth in the end, it just wasn't the book for me.

For a light romance this book will suit you just fine.

Three stars.

"I received this book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review."













Thursday, February 19, 2015

Sabotaged Book Review



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About the Book

Growing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and troublemaker Reef McKenna were always at odds. Now paired together on Yancey's search-and-rescue canine unit, they begin to put aside old arguments as they come to see each other in a different light. Then a call comes in from the Iditarod that will push them to their limits.

Kirra's uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared. Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing. Frank's daughter has been kidnapped. In order to save her, the man must use his knowledge as a mechanical engineer to do the kidnapper's bidding or she will die. Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl's life, but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen. (Goodreads)




My Review

I have mixed feelings while writing this. I really loved the first two books, and I've enjoyed the rest just not as much. This book is a good conclusion to this series, it wraps up everything nicely and shows the readers the entire family in the end.
It was nice to read about Reef but I wish perhaps I could have read more of his thoughts. I thought the romance was overdone a bit and was too easy from the start. I thought a lot of the story was predictable so it wasn't as suspenseful as the previous books. But I liked getting a glimpse into the Iditarod it's really very interesting to read about. We were in Alaska a couple of years ago and it was neat to see where people actually go in the race and learn more about it.
I wish the race was in the book more but instead the book takes you all over the state so that was important to pay attention to. I think Dani is a talented writer and I am so looking forward to her next books! I really enjoyed this series and while some of the books are better than other they are all winners to me!

Four and half stars. I'm on the fence with this one.


"I received this book from Bethany House for free in exchange for an honest review."


Dani has some fun stuff on her website about this book and her others.


Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Sabotaged Heart Of Adventure Sweepstakes from Dani Pettry

Enter the HEART OF ADVENTURE Sweepstakes from Author Dani Pettrey



In SABOTAGED, the fifth and final book of author Dani Pettrey’s award-winning Alaskan Courage series, Kirra Jacobs and Reef McKenna experience the high stakes of Iditarod search-and-rescue when Kirra’s uncle, a musher in the race, goes missing.
Kirra and Reef put aside their differences to search for him, but what they discover is harrowing: Frank’s daughter Meg has been kidnapped, and Frank must do the kidnapper’s bidding or Meg will die.
Soon Kirra, Reef, and the entire McKenna family are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl’s life, but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen.
To celebrate their epic race, Dani and Bethany House Publishers are pleased to present the HEART OF ADVENTURE SWEEPSTAKES, and your chance to win one of three marvelous prizes, all closely connected to the story.
Timeframe & Notifications:
This giveaway starts February 2, 2015 and ends February 22, 2015 @ 11:59 pm (PST).
Entry is open to US residents only, age 18 and over. Winners will be selected Monday, February 23, 2015, and announced at DaniPettrey.com.

This is an awesome series and if you haven't read the books you must! Enter below for prizes!
(I will have a review for this book up too but I haven't gotten a copy of it yet!) 



Book Info & Sample Chapter:
Can be found at http://www.danipettrey.com/books/
Book Links:

About the Prizes

Heart of Adventure Sweepstakes Grand PrizeGRAND PRIZE:
LUXURIOUS LODGE GETAWAY
During their cross-country hunt for answers, Kirra and Reef stop to rest at a gorgeous mountain lodge in Denali that holds special memories for Reef. This prize offers you a chance to build your own special memories, with a luxurious lodge getaway for two.
Our Grand Prize winner will receive: A $250 gift certificate to Hotels.com, good for reservations at lodges and hotels across the Continental US, Alaska, Hawaii, and numerous International locations

Heart of Adventure Sweepstakes Second PrizeSECOND PRIZE:
PALS WITH PAWS DONATION
In the Alaskan Courage series, Kirra is the proud owner of Nanook Haven, a rescue shelter for sled dogs. In real life, animals need rescue as well, and this prize will allow you to give a special gift to support an organization like Kirra’s.
Our Second Prize winner will receive: A $150 donation in your name, to the animal rescue, shelter, or veterinarian of your choice

Heart of Adventure Sweepstakes Third PrizeTHIRD PRIZE:
SWEETHEART SURVIVAL SLED
In SABOTAGED, Kirra and Reef take shelter in a snow cave while hiding from a man determined to put them on ice– permanently! Luckily, Kirra has a survival kit, to help them make it through the sub-zero temperatures.
If you prefer a little more romance and a little less suspense in your survival kit, this is the prize for you.
Our Third Prize winner will receive: A $100 value sweetheart survival pack. This gift basket includes double chocolate raspberry cake, smoked salmon, brie cheese and crackers, and a wide variety of gourmet snacks

How to Enter:

Go to http://www.danipettrey.com/heart-of-adventure-sweepstakes/ and complete the entry box, anytime between February 2 – 22, 2015.

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Ten Book Related Problems I Have





Hosted by The Broke And The Bookish

Ten Book Related Problems I Have (could be serious or fun!)


1. One that seems to happen to me often is I start reading a book before dinner or in the midst of cooking-usually not the best idea. Things have gotten burnt or simply forgotten to be made...


2. I am all about real books, not eBooks. But I am continually running out of room...At the rate I'm going I'm going to need a bigger house.


3. They need to be able to fit into my purse, any bigger and it just doesn't work.


4. When traveling it's a struggle-books or clothes?


5. When family gets irritated when all I ask for is books..


6. Becoming so attached to characters in a series and then mid-series the author dies


7. When you discover someone you know reads the same types of books you do-party!


8. This is one I read online but it's my life in a nutshell "You constantly think about how to excuse yourself from social situations so that you have enough time to read".

9. When I say "lets stop by the bookstore" and hours later I realize my husband has left the store, finished the shopping elsewhere, and is ready to go home..


10. The fear that my future kids won't want to read...






The Postage Stamp Vegetable Garden Book Review

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About the Book

    To accommodate today's lifestyles, a garden needs to fit easily into a very small plot, take as little time as possible to maintain, require a minimum amount of water, and still produce prolifically. That's exactly what a postage stamp garden does. Postage stamp gardens are as little as 4 by 4 feet, and, after the initial soil preparation, they require very little extra work to produce a tremendous amount of vegetables--for instance, a 5-by-5-foot bed will produce a minimum of 200 pounds of vegetables.

When first published 40 years ago, the postage stamp techniques, including closely planted beds rather than rows, vines and trailing plants grown vertically to free up space, and intercropping, were groundbreaking. Now, in an ever busier world, the postage stamp intensive gardening method continues to be invaluable for gardeners who wish to weed
, water, and work a whole lot less yet produce so much more. (Goodreads)


My Review

We have a nice size backyard in a small town and last year we attempted our first garden. This year we are changing things up a bit and I was curious to see what this book had to offer. We have a small section set aside and we got a few water tanks to use this year. I like this book because it's all about utilizing your space and in a good way! It's hard to believe that such a small area could produce so much food but it can! I liked the details about different types of soil and what to do to make it the best soil.
I think this book is great and handy to have around. If you are limited on space or just want a smaller garden pick this book up!

"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."









Twisted Innocence Review



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About the Book

When Holly s secrets backfire, is the mess too big to unravel?

Holly Cramer has worked hard to keep the identity of her daughter s father a secret, shamed and embarrassed by the one-night stand. But when the police knock on her door searching for Creed Kershaw, she realizes his identity isn' t as hidden as she thought. The fact that Creed is a person of interest in a recent drug-related murder only increases her humiliation.

When Holly s and Creed s paths cross, Holly is unsure whether to be terrified of him or trust him. His tenderness with their daughter makes her want to believe his story that he had nothing to do with the murder. Then she discovers that Creed has a connection to Leonard Miller who killed both her sister's fiancé and her brother-in-law, and kidnapped her nephews and things only become more complicated.

Will Creed lead them to the man who has plagued her family, or become another of his victims?" (Goodreads)


My Review

I hate to say it but this book was my least favorite in this series. The other two seemed more suspenseful and intriguing. This book does include the same characters from the previous stories, so I recommend reading them in order. Holly's character frustrated me at times but I liked Terri's portrayal of her life and situation raising a baby and being a cap driver. The most surprising person in this story was Creed who confused me at first and really completed the story line. Terri could have twisted the relationships up a bit but instead I think she made life more realistic and I liked it. I loved reading about all of the previous people and their continuing stories. I just didn't connect with this book much and for me it wasn't so much a page turner. I know so many people will love it though as I have the previous two.
Terri Blackstock is a great writer and I can't wait to read more!

Four stars.

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review." 






In Terri Blackstock’s third and final book in her Moonlighters series, Twisted Innocence, readers are in for a story of suspense and redemption. Dangers old and new threaten Holly and her baby, and lives are demanded as sacrifices for love. Through a complex web of mistakes and regret, redemption is the one hope Holly has left to hold on to.

Celebrate the series' final release by entering Terri's Nook giveaway!

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One grand prize winner will receive:

  • A Nook GlowLight

  • The entire Moonlighters series

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 8th. Winner will be announced March 9th on the Litfuse blog.

twistedinnocence-enterbanner
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

Monday, February 16, 2015

Worry Less So You Can Live More Book Review


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About the Book

A refreshing invitation to leave behind your heavy heart and experience both delight and rest in the moment-by-moment pleasure of the God who delights in you. (Goodreads)



My Review

I have anxiety about most everything it seems. I thought this book would have some good ideas on how to worry less, hence the title. I'll be honest, I didn't really get much out of this book that I haven't read previous. Jane writes in stories so the reader can better relate to certain worries and at the end of each chapter are questions and a prayer. I think this book would be best used as a devotional. The main idea that resonates with me from reading this book is you really can't live more until you focus on God. Your worries can't disappear without that focus and Jane continually proves the fact in her book and encourages the readers to dig deeper. 


Four stars. 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free in exchange for an honest review."




Sunday, February 15, 2015

Patriots, Redcoats, and Spies Review



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About the Book

When Revolutionary War Patriot Lamberton Clark is shot by British soldiers while on a mission for the Continental Army, he has only two hopes of getting the secret message he s carrying to General George Washington: his 14-year-old twin boys John and Ambrose. Upon discovering that their father is a spy in the Culper Spy Ring, the boys accept their mission without a clue about what they may be up against. They set off from Connecticut to New Jersey to find General Washington, but the road to the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army is full of obstacles; including the man who shot their father who is hot on their trail." (Goodreads)




My Review

I do love this time period so I am always excited to see publishers and authors create a story that is more kid friendly. I think that a lot of times kids or young adults see history as boring because all they have read is a textbook. Books like this bring history alive and they are what made me interested in history when I was younger.
I really enjoyed this book! I think the historical facts were good and it gave good perspective on what it was like to be a Patriot. The twin boys must get a letter to George Washington but be very careful along their way. This story is about their journey and adventures.

Younger folks will enjoy, boy and girls both. Ages 8-12.

Five stars.

"I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for free in exchange for an honest review."






Thursday, February 12, 2015

Remember the Lilies Review



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About the Book

Irene and Rand come from very different walks of life. Will they find common ground in their fight to survive?

Irene has grown up in the jungle as a missionary with her Aunt Anita, but now she and countless others are imprisoned by Japanese soldiers at the Santo Tomas Internment Camp in the Philippines. Irene and her aunt are safe there, and she keeps busy with her duty of delivering censored messages to the camp’s prisoners, but like everyone else, she prays for the war to end and for her freedom. Rand is a wealthy, womanizing American, whose attempted escape from the internment camp has put himself and others in danger. When Rand and Irene’s Aunt Anita meet one another in the hospital, Irene learns more of his story and her heart is determined to save his family. But the danger outside the walls of the hospital worsens every day, and life in this exotic place is anything but luxurious. Can Irene find Rand’s family before they disappear forever? And can a humble missionary woman and an arrogant man find common ground in the face of their biggest fears? (Goodreads)


My Review

I will say I had high expectations for this book as I have enjoyed the author's previous two books. This story, while standing alone from the others, is also set during World War II only the setting is in Manila, Philippines. It's always interesting to read about different settings during this time but I feel like this book could have been a little better. I couldn't really get into the story line, the romance felt forced and the characters didn't intrigue me as much. I like Irene well enough but at times she grated on my nerves. I think I liked the secondary characters more so than the main two. I liked the history part of the story and how people were treated over the course of the war, I just wish there had been more depth with the characters and storyline.

I wish I could say I loved this book but I did love the first two books.

Three and half stars.

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."





This gripping new tale from Liz Tolsma, Remember the Lilies, is a must-read for fans of WWII-era fiction. When Irene is attacked by a sinister Japanese guard and their secrets are exposed, she and Rand must learn the true meaning of forgiveness—if they can stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom.

Help Liz celebrate the release of Remember the Lilies with a Kindle Fire giveaway!

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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • One copy of Remember the Lilies
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/19. Winner will be announced at Liz's Remember the Lilies Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Liz and WWII fiction fans, as well as for a chance to win some great prizes!   

rememberthelilies-enterbanner

{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 19th!

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Beyond All Dreams Book Review



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 About the Book

Sweeping and Romantic Historical Drama from an Award-Winning Author
Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. She is thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, but her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.
Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen until his promising career became shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship.
Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglement with a member of Congress.
From the gilded halls of the Capitol, where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for themselves? (Goodreads)



 My Review

I am a fan of Elizabeth Camden and was so looking forward to this book. I like Anna's character well enough and her job at the Library of Congress is fun to read about. I found the relationship between Anna and Luke humorous, Camden usually includes a bit of humor. There is an overall mystery that tangles the book up and threads a bit of suspense. Is Luke really who he says he is? What happened so long ago to Anna's father? This part of the story is interesting and I honestly wish there was more detail on this particular part of the story.
There are a lot of politics in this book that I honestly couldn't get into. The little details about Congress and Luke's job didn't intrigue me and I wish that wasn't the case. I have loved all of Elizabeth's books but this one was a bit of a let down for me. I think it was mainly the setting and I just couldn't get into the characters lives. I look forward to her next book though and still recommend her as an author!

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."











 
Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden's newest release, Beyond All Dreams. From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of Beyond All Dreams with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.
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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • One copy of Beyond All Dreams
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at Elizabeth's 2/17 Beyond All Dreams Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for the opportunity to win some great prizes!
beyondalldreams-enterbanner
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

The Earth Diet Book Review

 

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About the Book

Beauty queen Miss Earth Australia Liana Werner-Gray got a wake-up call at the age of 21, when she was diagnosed with a precancerous tumor in her throat. Realizing that health issues were holding her back, including in her entertainment career, she decided to change her lifestyle. Through juicing and using the whole-food recipes shared in this book, Liana healed herself in only three months.      This success inspired Liana to create the Earth Diet and make information on the incredible power of plant-based and natural food available to others. She has since used her recipes to help thousands of people with cancer, diabetes, acne, addictions, obesity, and more.      When you get the essential vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients your body needs, you can’t help but feel better. In this book, you’ll find more than 100 nutrient-dense recipes that provide proper nutrition. The Earth Diet is inclusive, with recipes for every person, ranging from raw vegans to meat eaters. It also features specific guidelines for weight loss, boosting the immune system, increasing your energy, juice cleansing, and more. If you’re looking for great-tasting recipes to help you live your healthiest life ever, then this book is for you. (Goodreads)


My Review

You have to have an open mind if topics such as this book are not your norm. I've read other reviews on the book and many people I know would bash this book without even reading it. I definitely don't agree with everything in this book. The author is telling us what worked for her and her mother and I have no doubt that it was good! No cookbook or book for that matter is the "right" book. Everyone is different so that being said- I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was well organized and while I thought it was going to be a cookbook that part didn't really come until the end.
 What you put into your body is important and I found it true that she also said the things that your skin soaks up are just as important. Perfumes and lotions and scents all soak into your skin so do you really want some of those things in your system? There is also a wonderful section of recipes for personal care products such as toothpaste and even mascara! I also loved the recipes that didn't have dairy or gluten, as my body can't digest them so good. Liana Werner-Gray also writes about how growing your own produce is always the best or getting things from the local market which I completely agree. Many of the topics I had read about before and were nothing new to me but I did get some good info from this book.


Five stars!

"Thanks to Hay House Publishers for sending me a copy for free in exchange for an honest review."



Sunday, February 8, 2015

Where River's Part Book Review

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 About the Book

Following in her estranged father's footsteps, Dr. Juliet Ryan has devoted her scientific acumen to corporate America, providing safe drinking water for millions--and affording her plenty of perks along the way. Then, without warning, a fast-moving disaster sweeps Juliet into a whirlpool of corporate scandal and puts lives at risk. As she scrambles to find answers, Juliet must face her deepest wounds and join forces with her father to expose a far-reaching conspiracy. Underneath it all, she struggles to forgive those who betrayed her trust--not least of all her own father. (Goodreads)



 My Review

After reading the first book in this series I was anxious to read the next! This book can be read completely stand alone from the other and I was surprised by the difference of topics and style. Juliet finally feels like she has gotten the career of her dreams. Success, handsome man, and just maybe everything else will fall into place. As things start to turn for the worst in every aspect of her life she is unsure where or who to turn to. 
This book really is unique with the setting and characters. I love San Antonio and the Riverwalk where much of the story takes place. It was interesting to see how a big company that provides bottled water could work. The best part of this book is the reality of life when things go horribly wrong and discovering God in the midst of the good and the bad. Kellie has a unique writing style and take on life and I enjoy her books. I did enjoy the first book more so than this one but both are good.
Four stars. 

"I received this book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review."


















Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Journal Review-Love It!


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About the Journal

Do you ever stop to wonder how you got where you are? The Q&A a Day Journal shows you what was going through your head each day—for five years of your life. Simply turn to today’s date, answer the question at the top of the page, and when you finish the journal, start over. As you return to the daily questions again over the years, you’ll notice how your answers change (or don’t)! With questions that are sometimes provocative (“On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you?”), occasionally quirky (“What can you smell right now?”), and inevitably interesting (“If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would you go?”), this classically designed journal—embellished with beautiful details—is the perfect gift for anyone embarking on a new phase of life. (Goodreads)



My Review

I have kept a journal for over ten years now. I don't always write in it every day but I try to complete about one a year. I saw this journal and thought it was a brilliant idea!! It's so fun to go back and see how you have grown through previous writings. This little book is just that, it's small so it's not a big book you have to hold onto every day. Each page has a question for that day and only a few lines in which to answer. It doesn't require a lot of time so it makes it much more doable to write in every day. The questions are unique and fun and make me think, what do I really want today at this moment in time? How do I feel today really? All you add is the year and your comment and that's it! I can't wait to go back and read my answers in five years 2020!
This little journal is a wonderful idea and I wish I had heard about it sooner!

Highly recommend to anyone who wants to journal and doesn't want to spend a lot of time.

"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."
















Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Breaker's Reef Book Review




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 About the Book

The murders occurring on Cape Refuge mirror scenes in a local writer s novels. Could the killer be a copycat or the author himself?

When a teenage girl s body is discovered in a boat between Tybee Island and Cape Refuge, all evidence points to a famous mystery writer who has taken up residence in the small town: Marcus Gibson. After all, ex-con Sheila Caruso discovers that a scene in one of his books perfectly mirrors the brutal crime scene, and Gibson seems just eccentric enough to be murderous.

Police Chief Cade works to confirm the evidence but more devastation is just around the corner. He and Blair Owens discover a second dead teenager, again paralleling a scene in one of Gibson s books. Then Sheila s daughter, Sadie, goes missing.

In a race against time, there are many questions to be answered. Can Cade find the killer before Sadie is murdered too? What connection does Sheila have with the crimes? And is Marcus one of the killers or is the murderer still walking free, ready to prey on his next victim?" (Goodreads)


My Review




 This was a great conclusion for this series! This and the first book were my favorites from the series. This story line held more suspense for me throughout the book. I enjoyed the same characters of course but also the new ones introduced. I love the message of Christ within the pages, even during a murder investigation everyone's lives still continue on. Cade of course is knee deep in tracking down the murderer while trying to live his own personal life. Sheila and Sadie are in this book a lot and I enjoyed them more this book than any before. 

I think the murder case was intriguing and overall the end wraps up nicely with all of the characters. 
I highly recommend this series and that you read them in order. 

Five stars. 

"I received this book from BookLook for free in exchange for an honest review."













Monday, February 2, 2015

Dashing Dish Cookbook Review


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 About the Book



From the creator of the wildly popular cooking and healthy lifestyle website DashingDish.com, comes a clean eating cookbook designed to give home cooks a healthy start to 2015. Dashing Dish: 100 Simple and Delicious Recipes for Clean Eating (Nelson Books) by Katie Farrell combines delicious and simple recipes with easy tips for incorporating clean eating habits for a healthier lifestyle.  As a registered nurse, Farrell has spent years teaching others about nutrition, health and overall wellbeing. Since its inception, her hit website DashingDish.com has garnered more than 25,000 monthly subscribers who access her recipes, cooking videos and fitness plans.
For readers new to clean eating, Dashing Dish makes it easy to transition by providing lists of valuable pantry, fridge and freezer items helpful for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The book also includes important conversion charts and offers clean substitutes for some popular unhealthy foods, making the jump to clean eating as simple as possible. 


My Review

 I love food. I also love the cover of this cookbook! I am always open to new ideas for meals. There are so many things you can do, I'm just not always that creative and need others to show me what to do! This book is all about clean eating. So there are a few recipes that call for protein powder ( though she does list a substitution at times). To me this also seemed like a great cookbook for a home of one or two people. There are many recipes that are "cake for one" or "dessert for one". I like this idea because then you don't end up making a bunch of goodies and eat it all. This way she shows you how to make a smaller amount that is much better for you. The pictures are great and for each recipe. I think that is pretty important this day in age and I like to see what I am making. The only thing I didn't like so much is the use of so much Stevia, which I really don't like myself. I also discovered that many of these recipes were nothing new to me. I did find some great recipes though! The book is split up into sections after the intro and clean eating topics: Breakfast Lunch, Dinner, Side Dishes, Snacks, and Desserts. 
My favorites are The Best Giant Frittata, Peanut Butter Breakfast Bars, Lightened Up Salmon Cakes, and Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken. So that shows you the variety and that seems to be in each section. The organization of the book is wonderful and overall this is a good cookbook. 
If you are clean eating and trying to come up with new ideas, perhaps you should check this cookbook out!




 "I received this book from Icon Media Group for free in exchange for an honest review."