Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Blood Assassin by Alexandra Ivy

Book Description

They are the outcasts of humanity. Blessed with power. Cursed by fate. Driven by passion. The Sentinels have returned. . .
Out Of The Shadows
At six-foot-three and two-hundred-fifty pounds, Fane is a natural born guardian. A flawless mix of muscled perfection and steely precision, he has devoted years of his life to protecting a beautiful necromancer. But after she found love in the arms of another, Fane has been a warrior adrift. He swears allegiance only to the Sentinels. And no woman will ever rule his heart again. . .
Into The Fire
Not only a powerful psychic, Serra is that rare telepath who can connect to minds through objects. When the daughter of a high-blood businessman is kidnapped, Serra agrees to help. But when she stumbles onto a conspiracy involving secrets sects and ancient relics, her life is in mortal danger--and Fane is her only hope. Is the warrior willing to risk his body, his soul, and his heart, for Serra? Or will one last betrayal destroy them both?

My Thoughts:
Yummy!  I was so excited to read Fane's story and it didn't disappoint.  Since his bond with Callie has been transferred to her husband, Fane is determined to get away from Valhalla and the woman he is determined would be better off without him.  Serra is a telepath, a powerful one at that, and she wants Fane.  She always has and though he has hurt her, she knows he would do anything to protect her.  When she is coerced into leaving the Valhalla, Fane will stop at nothing to get her back.  Even if it means losing his heart to her and her knowing it, he has to keep Serra safe.
I liked Fane in the first book (Born in Blood) and it was great getting to know more details about him in this book.  Serra was also a good secondary character in the first book and this book put them front and center with a great story.  I started and did not want to put this book down at all.  The questions on how/when/if they could accomplish what they had to for Serra to survive pulled me through the book.  She was such a strong woman, but Fane saw her vulnerable side even when she tried to hide it.  The two of them really were a perfect pair.
Wonderful addition to the Sentinels series.  4/5 and if you haven't read the first one (and the novella) they are good too!

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book (via netgalley).  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

God Gave Us Angels by Lisa Tawn Bergren

God Gave Us AngelsBook Description:
“What do angels do all day, Papa?”
 
When Papa finds Little Cub looking for angels, it gives him a chance to tell his beloved child about those that may be in their midst, even when they can’t be seen.  Exploring their exhilarating Arctic world as they talk, Papa lovingly answers all of Little Cub’s questions about angels—and as usual, she has a lot. She wants to know what they do, how they look, how they guard God’s loved ones, and best of all, how they serve the Creator of the world.  
 
“God really created angels to serve him more than us, Little Cub.
They love him and would do anything for him.”
 
This uplifting tale will encourage young hearts by exploring the glory and design of God’s messengers, while turning toward him with praise.    


My Thoughts:
This was a cute book!  Papa and Little Cub are talking about angels as they explore.  They talk about how angels were made by God to serve and worship him.  That there are angels do guard us and help us.  We do not pray to angels but to God because he is their boss.  I just loved how the book flowed and told all the information as the story progressed.  It wasn't like a book that you feel like you are being taught but instead are being told a story with an awesome amount of information.  The author did a great job with this one.  My 4 year old and 6 year old both immensely enjoyed it.
A 5/5 for me!  It was absolutely adorable and taught lessons throughout.

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book.  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

The Sweetest Story Bible for Toddlers

Book Description:

Toddler edition of a popular storybook Bible designed just for little girls!
The sweetest things surround a little girl's life: hearts and flowers, kittens and puppies, umbrellas and tea parties, kisses and hugs. But the sweetest thing of all in her life is God's love. The Sweetest Story Bible for Toddlers includes eight beloved Bible stories that show how much God loves his people and every little girl. This board book includes a padded cover, perfect for reading with little ones.

My Thoughts:
This is a cute little Bible Story Book.  I got it and read it with my 4 year old girl.  She really enjoyed the stories and they were easy for her to understand.  I do with they had included a bit about why Adam and Eve were removed from the Garden of Eden.  She wasn't happy that there wasn't information on Jonah, but the stories that were there she really liked.  The stories were well aligned with what scripture says.
This was a 3/5 for us.  I liked the simple stories, but there were some of the bigger things that were missing from these stories.

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book (via BookLook).  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Monday, December 8, 2014

XOXO Release!

99 CENTS FOR A LIMITED TIME!
ONLY AVAILABLE FOR TWO WEEKS! 16 New Adult Stories from 16 of your favorite New Adult Authors Find your next book boyfriend here.
Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/xoxobandn
Featuring MY UNEXPECTED FOREVER by USA and NYT Bestselling Author Heidi McLaughlin They say you should expect the unexpected, I didn't realize my unexpected would be the forever kind. FOR EVERLY by Raine Thomas The last thing physical therapy student Everly Wallace wants is a relationship, but when she’s roped into working with sexy Major League pitcher Cole Parker, she’ll discover that it just might be the one thing she needs. INDELIBLE by Bethany Lopez Sam's a single mom, working her way through college while raising her toddler. Judd's a college baseball player, who on the outside, looks like he doesn't have a care in the world. Can two people at different stages in their life find a way to make a life together? TATTOOED DOTS by Kimberly Knight Brooke and Easton learn that people are brought into their lives for many reasons. Over time, they find out what those reasons are. Some are to be a temporary acquaintance while others are there for life. MANGLED HEARTS by Felicia Tatum Can two loves find their way back to each other despite an addiction and a hardened heart, allowing their love to overcome it all? Can these mangled hearts be mended? BREAKDOWN by Amanda Lance After Charlotte Ferro's suicide attempt is ruined by a handsome do-gooder he introduces her to a world of fast cars and cool criminals. But can their newfound friendship survive the secrets of their past? MAVERICK by Anna Cruise International surf sensation Kellen Handler has it all – fame and fortune and more women than he can count – but he's riding his own personal wave toward disaster. Can PR genius Gina Bellori rescue his reputation...and his heart? DO ANYTHING by Wendy Owens A broken heart is only the beginning for her. He thinks he has his life figured out. Will they risk their hearts on a new chance at love? RESIST ME by A.O. Peart Ethan, a former-Marine-turned-firefighter, has never really cared for any woman, while living his life to the fullest and enjoying the bad boy stigma. Until the street-smart Lisbeth comes along, and instantly turns Ethan’s world upside down, making him want to protect her, no matter the consequences. THE MAN TEST by Amanda Aksel Couple therapist Marin Johns tries to prove that all men are liars and cheaters by beginning a fictitious relationship. Will her new "boyfriend" be the statistic or will Marin regret the satisfaction of being right? A RISK WORTH TAKING by Heather Hildenbrand For college grad, Summer Stafford, watching her parents’ divorce has taught her that, above all, love is a risk. For a drifter like Ford O’Neal, love isn’t just a risk, it isn’t even on the table. But attraction quickly leads to something more and they are both forced to realize they’re risking a whole lot for a summer fling. UNINTENTIONAL VIRGIN by A.J. Bennett Nineteen-year-old Karma points is cursed. Cursed with a ridiculous name, self-esteem issues and the inability to lose her virginity. That is until Jax, the tattooed bouncer, comes into the picture. THE FALL OF SKY (PART ONE) by Alexia Purdy Singing duo Audrey and Liv Westing hope to be discovered as the next big thing. While fumbling through their turbulent existences, they attract the eye of a deadly but powerful Cartel family. A FIREFIGHTER'S FLAME by Dani Hart If you dig into the deepest parts of your soul, what would you find? Happiness,pain, love, regret, peace, sorrow? Follow Lennox's journey of rediscovery, falling in love, and searching for her own fairy-tale ending. STEALING PROMISES by Brina Courtney One moment can change your life forever. One moment to find love. One moment to lose it. FIRESIDE SERIES by Morgan Black A cowboy with a mysterious past. A ranch princess with an eye for the one she can’t have. What happens when their two world collides one weekend in a snowstorm?  
Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/xoxobandn





Presented by...

Friday, December 5, 2014

Interview of author Simon James House!!!

AW: Tell us about

I was born in the small village of Belvedere just on the edge of South East London. I

divide my time between the UK and Australia and am currently living in Sydney. As a

teen, I enjoyed break dancing and performed professionally in London. These days, my

passions are surfing and writing.

In 2011, I created and designed the classic surf/skateboard FreeForma bike,  which

infuses the art of surfing and skating in a motorized experience. I started FreeForma

Apparel in 2012, a 100% Organic Street Clothing line.  

In March 2014, I published Book 1 of the Andee The Aquanaut Trilogy, Andee The

Aquanaut: Guardian of the Great Seas followed by Book 2 in September, Andee The

Aquanaut: All Great Things Start with Small Beginnings. Book 3 will be released in

December 2014.

I'm also active in marine-life causes and donate a percentage of profits from sales of the

Andee The Aquanaut Trilogy to organizations worldwide.


AW: What genre do you write and why?

I started writing children's books as a way to bring my love as well as my passion for

conservation of the oceans and sea creatures to children everywhere. I believe that

superhero characters empower children and help them build strong self-esteems.

Andee is a unique superhero for marine life and I hope he inspires kids to learn more

about the ocean waters and preservation methods.
Displaying Andee The Aquanaut Guardian of the Great Seas m.jpg

AW: Tell us about your book….

Andee the Aquanaut is a Trilogy. Books 1 and 2 are currently available. The story is a

superhero action adventure about a young boy named Andee who lives with his marine

biologist parents on a small island. His life is idyllic until one day, a terrific storm hits the

island and sends him out to sea. He is separated from his parents and rescued by

young dolphins, Tingo and Tango who welcome him as part of their family. Andee is in

for a big surprise when he discovers he is the Chosen One destined to protect the

creatures of the seas. He is granted special powers allowing him to be one of the great

and legendary Aquanauts of the Marine Kingdom; the Lost City. He's sent on quests

and adventures by the Wise White Dolphin and confronts turmoil and dark and evil

forces in his role as superhero.  The book is a fast action adventure story for children

ages 8 through 16.


AW: What was your inspiration for this book?

Andee himself! The character just spoke to me and I found myself drawing  Andee and

then studying him and thinking, I really want to write about this guy and bring him to life!


AW: Do you have a favorite character and why that one? 

I think the Andee character was based on me. I have always loved the ocean and

wanted to be able to breathe underwater since I was a small child. I would have loved to

have been Andee. I guess that’s why I enjoy writing about him so much.


AW: Did you find anything particularly difficult in writing this book? 

I try not to over think my writing. I have a very vivid imagination and photographic

memory and need to imagine the story in my mind as if I am watching a film. Whenever

I get stuck in writing, I just take a break and the writing flows again.


AW: What project(s) are you currently working on?

I'm currently working on the Andee the Aquanaut trilogy books in Audio book format, It

is going extremely well indeed! Book 2, “All Great Things Start With Small Beginnings”

is action packed, full of adventure and fast paced. I'm working with some amazingly

talented voice actors that are truly bringing all of the characters to life.


AW: Do you have any interesting writing quirks you want to tell us about?

I spend a lot of time daydreaming about my story and what I'm going to write. I'll get

eureka moments while standing on my head doing a yoga pose and need to grab a pen.

I generally write afternoons to evening; this is when I'm most at Zen with myself and can

really get into the story and play the characters out in my wired head!


AW: Do you have any advice for writers out there? 

Be creative and don’t try too hard.  Just let it flow and let the story unfold in your mind.

Spend some weeks just thinking about the characters; their voices, how they sound,

how they will act and what they stand for.  Bring it all to life in your mind like a movie

trailer before you begin to write a single word. Then sit down at your laptop and watch it

all pour out onto the screen.



AW: Where can we find you? 

The Andee The Aquanaut website is http://andeetheaquanaut.com and

you can find me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/simonjameshouseauthor,

Twitter at  https://twitter.com/sjhauthor

and on Goodreads at  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8289729.Simon_James_House


AW: And of course we have to know, where can we find your book?

The Books 1 and 2 are available on Amazon in digital format.

http://www.amazon.com/Andee-Aquanaut-Guardian-Great-Trilogy-

ebook/dp/B00KI2GXJC

http://www.amazon.com/Andee-Aquanaut-Things-Beginnings-Trilogy-

ebook/dp/B00N8BEJLY


Book 1 has just been released in print and audio on Amazon. Book 3 is currently in

editing.

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Full Throttle by Julie Ann Walker

Book Description:

New York Times bestselling author Julie Ann Walker continues to thrill readers with her sexy Black Knights, Inc. romantic suspense series. Behind the facade of their tricked-out motorcycle shop is a covert team comprised of the most elite ex-military specialists. 
"Edgy, Alpha, and downright hot!" – USA Today Bestselling Author Catherine Mann
She Needs a Hero... Abby Thompson didn't sign up to be the daughter of the President of the United States. The position was forced on her by the small matter of her birth. Preferring a quiet life of study, she's content to leave the politics and the international intrigue to her father. Unfortunately, the most powerful man on the planet is sure to make enemies. When a group of armed thugs takes her hostage half a world away, demanding the U.S. government release prisoners in exchange for her safe return, she fears her father's policy of "not negotiating with terrorists" means she'll never see the shores of the Potomac again. Luckily, there's one glimmer of hope. His name is Carlos Soto. And though she abruptly ended things with him years ago, she knows now he's the only man who can save her...
Black Knights, Inc. to the Rescue... Carlos "Steady" Soto has taken part in his fair share of dangerous missions working at the covert government defense firm of Black Knights Inc. But nothing prepared him for the emotional rollercoaster he faces when he's tasked with rescuing the only woman he ever loved-who also broke his heart. Racing against time and outmaneuvering a group of trained terrorists will take everything he's got. Plus there's the heat simmering between them which is threatening to ignite into an inferno. While ruthless enemies stalk them, they must learn to trust each other again. Even if they do make it out alive, will Abby turn her back on him... for the second time?
My Thoughts:
Pretty good book.  Ever since his sister was killed in a bombing, Carlos Soto aka Steady, has been moving on and saving lives.  Abby's father is the president of the US and she was there when Carlos' sister was murdered in the bombing.  Now, he is back in her life after 8 years but in an official capacity.  A threat has been made against a daughter of the president and he called in his special unit for protection in addition to the secret service.  Now she needs the special unit to live up to her father's expectations and save her.  She knows one of the team that will stop at nothing to get her back after she is kidnapped.
I really liked how the author linked the past and present in this book.  Both Carlos and Abby were attracted to each other in the past but she was 'too much younger', not to mention the daughter of the future president.  When she is kidnapped, she KNOWS he is coming for her.  Carlos would do anything for her, even give up his life.  He loves the men he works with like brothers and treats them accordingly.  I also liked the secondary story line that went on through the book but did tie in with the main one.
It was a 3/5 for me.  I thought the ending was a bit abrupt, especially given what happened between the two of them.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book (via netgalley).  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Her Christmas Guardian by Shirlee McCoy

Book Description:

TO SAVE HER DAUGHTER

Former army ranger Boone Anderson immediately senses danger when he spots Scout Cramer and her precious little girl while holiday shopping. Then two cars suddenly give chase in the parking lot—kidnapping the child. His worst suspicions are confirmed, and professional instincts propel him into action. Having lost his own infant daughter years before, Boone is determined to reunite the beautiful single mother and her missing child. But when a secret from Scout's past finally catches up to her, she must work with her self-appointed guardian to save her daughter. Before the kidnappers cancel Christmas for all of them…permanently.

Mission: Rescue—No job is too dangerous for these fearless heroes

My Thoughts:
This was a good one that I was excited to read.  Boone isn't a stranger when it comes to danger and he can see it in the woman's eyes.  She didn't ask for his help but she definitely needs it.  He doesn't hesitate when he sees her being followed out of the parking lot, but follows the cars following her.  Problem is, he isn't in time and Scout's daughter is taken while she is hurt.  Now his team is going to help her find her missing daughter and get her back.
I loved Boone in the series and am glad to see his book now.  I don't think there could have been a more perfect woman for him than Scout.   While she has secrets in her past that she would love to stay there, she doesn't hesitate to tell it when it could be beneficial to finding her baby.  The team that Boone works with is awesome and I can't wait to read more of their stories.
Absolutely a 5/5.  Loved this book (and the series).
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book.  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Monday, December 1, 2014

Plush Bible Collection, NIrV

Book Description:
The Plush Bible Collection, NIrV uses a similar size and readability as the popular Thinline Bible, now available in the New International Reader's Version (NIrV). This Bible has a soft plush cover, designed especially for kids. The NIrV is based on the NIV translation and is written at a third-grade reading level—perfect for children learning to read.

My Thoughts:
With this Bible, I engaged the help of my 11 year old niece.  It came in while she was with me and she absolutely LOVED the cover and how 'fuzzy' it was.  So, I had her look through it to give me a young girl's perspective.  I looked through it and read certain passages and really liked the whole layout, but since it is 'aimed' at her age group, I wanted her opinion.
She not only liked the cover (which honestly is what drew her in at first), but she sat down and read it.  Over and over she commented how she liked how it made things easier to understand and that she didn't have a problem at all following along with the stories or with difficult words.  I liked that it pulled her in with looks and got her to reading God's word in a way that was easy for her.  
This is an absolute 5/5 for us!  I would recommend this for any young girl!!!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy (via BookLook).  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Rain & Dreams Cover Reveal!!!

Displaying Rain&Dreams Banner.jpg

Displaying Rain and Dreams_ebooksm.jpgTitle: The Chronicles of Rain and Dreams
Series: The Legend of the Archangel book 4
Author: L.L. Hunter
Genre: YA paranormal romance/ urban fantasy
Cover Designer: Regina Wamba of Mae I Design and photography
Release Date: January 31st 2015
Formats: eBook and Paperback

Blurb:
Thirty- nine days ago Dyston disappeared, and the world suffered for it. Scarlett doesn’t understand why he had to leave, but Dyston is being haunted by the demons of his past, and also the truth of what he is – he is tainted.
But leaving is also a ploy.
Dyston can’t let Scarlett find out the real reason for his leaving, for if she does find out, he fears she could never forgive him. In the search for the missing journals of the nine archangels, Dyston also discovers some things he didn’t know about himself. But little does he know, the one journal he can’t find lies with his heart.
Will Dyston be able to forgive himself and return to his loved ones, or will he hide away forever? 
In the fourth installment of the Legend of the Archangel series, will love prevail over darkness?
Pre-order your copy now!
Stalk links:
Instagram: @llhunter
Google +: google.com/+LLHunter

Displaying ladyamber_booktours.jpg

Friday, November 28, 2014

Tainted Energy by Lynn Vroman

Tainted EnergyBook Description:
For seventeen-year-old Lena, living in the trailer park with the rest of town’s throwaways isn’t exactly paradise. Dealing with a drunken father who can't keep his fists to himself doesn’t help matters either. The only good thing in her life, other than track, is the mysterious man who visits her dreams, promising to find her.
When a chair burns her arms, Lena chalks it up to stress-induced crazy. Yet as bizarre incidents escalate, even being crazy can’t explain it all away… until one day dream guy does find her.
Tarek lost Lena seventeen years ago after she was accused of treason and marked Tainted. He finally discovers her reborn on Earth into a life of suffering as punishment for her crime. However, someone else has already found her… and wants her dead. Willing to sacrifice everything, he fights to keep her safe so she can live the only life she’s ever known—even if that life doesn’t include him.


My Thoughts:
This book pulled me in from the first page.  Lena is a 17 year old, eagerly awaiting the day she turns 18.  Not for the normal teenage reasons but so she can escape the torture she has lived in her whole life.  What she doesn't know is that the life she is living now is punishment for a life she lived before.  Tarek has been searching for Lena for the past 17 years and finally found her, only so did someone else.
I have to start out by saying that the author did a great job with the characters.  They were relateable and well written, not unrealistic and forced.  Lena is freaked out by what has started happening to her, Tarek has to protect her.  Her best friend, her boss, the lunch lady and others are her support and protection that she doesn't even realize.  The love between Tarek and Lena is the same from their previous life together but so different.  She knows him from her dreams but she now lives this human life, not their life together.    Solid 4/5.  I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more from this author!

Thank you to the publisher/author for the review copy of this book (via Lady Amber's Tours).  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

#Tour: Rumble Young Man Rumble by Dante Zuniga-West #Hosted @Crossroadreview



Rumble Young Man Rumble is a modern coming of age story. I wrote it because as a young man I did not identify with any of the iconic coming of age stories people gave me. I don’t think any of my peers did either. It’s 2014, hand your average American 20 year old a copy of Catcher in the Rye and see if they get past the first couple pages… they won’t. It’s sad, because Catcher is a great book, but it just doesn’t speak to the experience of growing up now. There aren’t too many books that do. When I taught high school English, it became glaringly apparent that my students were suffering from a similar lack of literature they could identify with. When I taught undergrads in college, I found the same thing to be true. In America, we no longer come of age in our teenage years: we come of age in our mid twenties with far more access and danger around us. I wrote Rumble Young Man Rumble to renew the dialogue of the genre.
I wrote it to reach out to the young men and women who, unfortunately, look at books like they are things that belong on a dusty library shelf.
On a more personal note, I wanted Rumble to be a story about love, loss, and prizefighting, all things I find to be infinitely fascinating and quite similar to each other.
Who do you think would be most affected by or touched by this work?


It is my hope that this book finds its way into the hands of sensitive and angry young men who are learning to become adults. I think that they would be the most touched by this story. I also think people who’ve never given ring fighting a second thought but had the courage to pick up this book will be incredibly surprised at the complexity and emotion portrayed in this story with regard to fighting. It is a book that, if you can look past some of the raw grit, can transcend age and gender variables.

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Black Widow by Jennifer Estep

Book Description

Lethal, sexy, and always ready to protect her friends, Gin Blanco (a.k.a. the Spider) takes on the mysterious M.M. Monroe in book twelve of the New York Times and USA TODAYbestselling Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series.

There’s nothing worse than a cruel, cunning enemy with time to kill—and my murder to plan. With wicked Fire elemental Mab Monroe long gone, you’d think I could finally catch a break. But someone’s always trying to take me down, either as Gin Blanco or my assassin alter-ago. Now along comes the Spider’s new arch-nemesis, the mysteriously named M. M. Monroe, who is gleefully working overtime to trap me in a sticky web of deceit.

The thing is, I’m not the only target. I can see through the tangled threads enough to know that every bit of bad luck my friends have been having lately is no accident—and that each unfortunate “coincidence” is just one more arrow drawing ever closer to hitting the real bull’s-eye. Though new to Ashland, this M. M. Monroe is no stranger to irony, trying to get me, an assassin, framed for murder. Yet, as my enemy’s master plan is slowly revealed, I have a sinking feeling that it will take more than my powerful Ice and Stone magic to stop my whole life from going up in flames.

My Thoughts:
This was a book I couldn't wait to devour.  Gin's friends think she is paranoid thinking that everything going wrong in their lives are because of M.M. Monroe.  They don't understand the way her world works and the amount of plotting it takes to take down the spider.  Trying to frame her for a murder was almost poetic, but events spin out of control from there and Gin must show M.M. Monroe who is in charge.  The plan to get Gin out of the way is well though out, but her revenge will be much sweeter.  You don't mess with an assassin's family.
I still love Gin.  Actually I love all the characters in this book.  Owen was strong and steadfast.  Her brother was wonderfully supportive.  Her sister was kick butt.  I thought how the plan was revealed slowly and quite well.  Honestly, I thought it would be more drawn out with M.M. Monroe but loved how everything played.  Great story filled with great characters!!
Solid 5/5.  I absolutely love this series and this book was great.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book (via netgalley).  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Available through Audible as well, check out a few minutes of the awesome audio book:

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Trading Secrets by Melody Carlson

Book Description:
Trading Secrets
Back in fifth grade, Micah Knight got an Amish pen pal, and over the years, they've exchanged many letters--and many secrets. At age seventeen, Micah finally has the chance to meet her pen pal face-to-face. The only problem is that because of confusion about her name when the pen pals were assigned, her pen pal was a boy, Zack Miller. And all this time, Micah's never told Zack that she's actually a girl! While she wants nothing more than to experience life on Zack's Amish farm, she's afraid he'll hate her for deceiving him all these years. But she makes up her mind to face the music--and that's where the fun really begins. 
Bestselling author Melody Carlson brings young adults another fascinating tale of worlds colliding, secrets being revealed, and friendships forming. Teens will love this story of miscommunication and mishaps along the way to the truth.

My Thoughts:
This was a cute story.  Micah has written to her pen pal for years.  Zack is an Amish, now teenager, and he is Micah's pen pal.  When she was old enough to realize the mix up and her being a girl writing to an Amish boy, Micah kept her gender a secret.  Now, she has a chnace to meet him face-to-face and she is going!  She knows she has to reveal her secret but how will Zack react?
I really liked seeing the difference between the Amish family and the English family interactions.  The author does a great job with this story.  The way she sets up the story of the mixed up identity then face-to-face meeting while there are so many secrets between them.  Micah is so wanting to see the Amish for herself and Zack is wanting to get away.  The mix of cultures and friendships is worked perfectly.
5/5 for a teenage/young adult book.  It was a cute story.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book.  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

Friday, November 21, 2014

The Duck Commander Faith and Family Bible

Book Description:

The stars of the hit TV show Duck Dynasty are committed to upholding five core values both on and off the screen: faith, family, fellowship, forgiveness, and freedom.
The Duck Commander® Faith and Family Bible features new stories and testimonials by Phil, the Robertson family patriarch, and his son Al, a pastor with more than 22 years of experience. Together they offer fresh wisdom on biblical values and how everyday people can apply them to their lives.
Powered by relentless dedication to sharing the gospel and celebrating Christ’s kingdom, the Robertson family has become influential to contemporary evangelism and discipleship. The Duck Commander® Faith and Family Bible unleashes the power of their practical insight into critical faith issues, founded on God’s Word.
Features include:
  • Full text of the New King James Version Bible
  • A personal welcome note from Phil and Al Robertson
  • 125 articles on the top 24 most-searched topics on BibleGateway
  • Life application and scripture references supplement each article
  • 30 days of life-changing testimonials
  • Topical index and reading plans

My Thoughts:
This is an excellent Bible.  I completely enjoyed the stories/devotionals through this Bible.  Some of them are funny, some sad, but all make you think.  All of them are scriptural and can be applied in some way to your life.  I already knew of the Robertson family from the show but this helps expound on what you think you know about them.  The stories shared are personal and not flowered up at all, but basic to the point stories. The Bible itself is a wonderful edition that I would recommend to anyone who wanted a good Bible.  
Completely a 5/5 for me.  I know this will be a Bible that I recommend to family and friends.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book (via BookLook).  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

The Broken Destiny Book Blitz!

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Title: The Broken Destiny: A Broken Novel Book two Author: Carlyle Labuschagne Genre: Dystopian. Science- Fiction. YA Release Date: November 2014 Publishers: Hallowed Ink Press
Blurb: "You cannot know what light is if you have not experienced darkness"  Ava and her people have been exiled to the planet Poseidon for reasons she can't fathom. Upon meeting a boy from a different sector, her life turns into a beautiful chaos. She begins to feel things she isn't allowed to, thus motivating her to find out the truth about why her kind are so different, and why the Council are so interested in her. Once her mind is freed, with it comes a terrible power that could either save her kind, or destroy them all. But Ava is not the perfect heroine. She will become what she hates to save the ones she loves, and the cost of such a burden is deadly at best.








Displaying Carlyle.jpgCarlyle Labuschagne is a South African award winning author working her way into the hearts of international readers with her first two books in the Broken Trilogy. Her first young adult dystopian novel "The Broken Destiny" reached top 3 in its YA debut Category. The Sequel Evanescent won YATR literary award for best Sci-Fi book 2013. Her become a published author prgramme for students launched Feb 2014. She is not only an author, but works as a marketing manager by day. She holds a diploma in creative writing through the writing school at College SA. Carlyle loves to swim, fights for the trees, and is a food lover who is driven by her passion for life. Carlyle also writes for IU e-magazine India, an inspirational non-profit magazine that aims at inspiring the world through words. The drive behind her author career is healing through words. Carlyle is also the founder of the first annual book drive – Help Build A Library in Africa Project. And hopes to launch her very own Indie book festival in Johannesburg March 2015. “My goal as an author is to touch people’s lives, and help others love their differences and one another.”
Author Links:
Buy Links: Amazon

Prologue

All my life, I had searched for something; something I thought I ought to be. I felt like I was living someone else’s life, waiting for the awakening of my own. I felt like an empty shell burning for life. That was, until the day I lay dying in the prince’s chambers. I could no longer feel the pain from the tear in my gut. The only sensation left was a hollowed-out feeling that I had made a huge mistake in assuming that taking my own life, would have stopped the ancestors’ spirit from raging out. I had given up. I didn’t want to see myself killing the ones I loved.
I was the Chosen One, but I threw it all away for what I thought would save a life. Could you end a life to save a life? I did, and I have regretted it ever since. I realized then that things like me were not meant to exist.
What had been missing my whole life? It was I. To find myself, I had to lose myself in the worst possible way. The consequences of my actions became the legend of ‘The Broken’.
Excerpt two: 

Chapter One

Oh, Star

I wasn’t sure why they called us ‘The Broken’, but what I did know for certain was that we were different from the other ‘human’ inhabitants of this planet. We were the third generation of our kind, with a huge―some would say, cursed―destiny. We are also the last of our kind, a dying race. I used to believe that the reason we were exiled to Planet Poseidon was because we were a lot different from the humans on Earth. They tell us at assembly every morning that we are what survived of Earth because of those differences.
 Global warming, war and evil undertakings were said to have contributed to Earth’s destruction in the late twentieth century. Greed stripped Earth of its ‘magic’ and caused the planet to turn on itself. A way of getting rid of the ‘virus’, so to speak. Did I buy into those lies anymore - No. I believed that there was a lot more to the story behind our origins and our extradition to a long forgotten sector within the Titan galaxy was no accident. I could feel it in the cold burn of my legs as I walked the hollow halls of our institutions, and I could see it on the eerie motionless faces of my peers every day. Little by little, small things started changing and I started believing in the signs my mother wrote about in her secret journals.
A haunting feeling stared back at me as I looked upon my reflection in the monitor every morning, clearly remembering as a young child my iris were a lot bluer. At first I thought it was the effect of the changeover from mirror to monitor. I used to think that maybe the mirror was the lie. That it was evil and that that was the reason it had been outlawed. But so many new laws had been put into place over the last few years, I was beginning to doubt our perfect Utopia really existed, that beneath the surface something deceivingly dark was brewing, and the nightmares my biological mother wrote about were real events the council had stripped from her memories. Keeping it on paper was the only way she could decipher real memories from the planet ones.
Excerpt 3
My mother has me in some kind of arranged marriage, to the chief’s idiotic son of all people. I don’t want that. But it’s my duty. I have to. ” She said staring into the ground.
 “You don’t have to anything!” I shouted defensively. “No one can force you into a life you don’t want.”
My heart was racing, as my feet hit the wooden platform of the bridge. But the look on Maya’s face made me calm my anger and consider my words carefully, because the truth was that people did make me do things I didn’t want to.
Maya didn’t speak for a moment. From her facial expressions, I could tell she was having a fascinating debate in her own head. My eyes fell on the small stream. Only, the stream was no longer gentle.
“What do you suppose this means, then?” I asked Maya as I stopped to look over the edge of the bridge, my hands grasping the rail firmly as I peered all the way down the shallow canyon. By the look on her face, I knew I wasn’t imagining things and that she was concerned, not excited to have the planet alive again. Surely this would mean the cycle of autumn is finally over? She stood motionless on the overpass. We were both looking down on what used to be the tiny stream that snaked through the pebbles and disappeared over the ridge among the rocks and into the valley.
Maya grabbed my right arm tightly and tugged me away with such force that I almost fell over my own feet. Our footfalls clattered loudly over the bridge, as it slowly swayed beneath us.  
“Slow down, will you?” I yelled at her in frustration. “What’s going on, Maya?” The urgency in my voice momentarily startled us both.
“The prophecy,” she said distantly, keeping her eyes straight ahead.
“What?” I snapped.
But all she would say over and over again was: “It’s too soon! Too soon. Something’s wrong.”
I heard a loud thud. The bridge suddenly swayed dramatically and I looked down, trying to figure out what could have caused the sudden erratic motion. I noticed Maya extracting a sharp object from her boot. She was crouching down, baring her teeth like a wild cat. I tried to turn, but a sharp sting shot through my thigh. I looked down to see a long, red splinter protruding from my skin.
Maya shrieked and came at me, a thin dagger gripped tightly in her hand. She came hard and fast. I stood frozen in shock. What is she doing?My vision blurred and I started feeling dizzy. Maya yelled for me to get down, but I was frozen with fear. Suddenly, she ran around me and up on to the railing. She came crashing down―not on me as I had expected, but on something behind me. I staggered and fell on my hands and knees, barely feeling the hard wood as it pressed against my trembling palms and bony knees.
There was shouting. The bridge continued to sway beneath me, making it hard for me to clear my head…to get away. I managed to turn my neck just in time to see two dark figures climbing over the railing, reaching for me. Four powerful, dark hands clamped down on my arms and legs and lifted me off my feet. I heard Maya scream my name, but I was limp and couldn’t move.
As I was hurled away, unable to struggle, I could make out Maya’s form standing over the body of one of our attackers. She struck out at the two remaining assailants who were dragging me away. Another sudden shudder shook the bridge. I could hear the sound of weapons and fists flying around me. I dropped to the floor, suddenly free. By now I was completely numb. I didn’t feel the thud. It should have hit me full on. Instead, I tasted dust and then copper; blood.
Maya stood over me and yelled for someone called Enoch. I looked up at her as my vision faintly perceived two Zulu warriors grabbing her. I shouted for her safety, but the words got stuck in my throat, and I was lifted to my feet once more as they tore her off me. Maya screamed and fought her way out of our attackers’ claws. I heard an object slice through the air, passing over my head with a soft whistle. A dull thump and a soft growl followed, before the hands let me go.
This time I didn’t hit the ground. I kept on falling. I could barely hear the water over the shouting and after what felt like an immense force, I was underwater being overpowered by the cold.
Crystal blue eyes floated towards me like shooting stars, and I allowed myself to surrender to the darkness.
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