Friday, June 29, 2012

Fire in my Belly: A book to Cook from When You Are Stone Cold Hungry by Kevin Gillespie


Book: Fire in my Belly: A Book to Cook from When You Are Stone Cold Hungry

Author: Kevin Gillespie

Release date (if applicable): October 16, 2012

Synopsis: A incredible collection of unusual recipes from a finalist in the Food Network's Top Chef series. These recipes range from "foods that you thought you hated" to, I swear, a recipe for Honey Bun Bread Pudding with Peanut Butter Whiskey Sauce, utilizing Lil Debbie Honey buns that he concocted on a dare. There is even a drink recipe in the book where the ingredient is moonshine!

My rating: 5 Stars

My opinion: When I first took a look at this book, I was thinking Paula Deen on testosterone. As I got into it, Gillespie is SO FAR above that. He is in a class of his own! His recipes are unique with awesome pictures, excellent expanations in a layout that screams "FUN".

A word of warning, though, a better chunk of his recipes are not for the novice chef and require in depth preparation. He does give some in depth explanations, but not enough for a beginning cook to comprehend. But be prepared for some fun recipes with nice twists to standard food prep. One thing I did notice is that some of the ingredients might be difficult, depending on geographical area, to find so either give yourself time to locate them or find suitable substitutions.

This is defintely a chef I will be keeping an eye on!

Keep an eye out...I will be testing a couple of his recipes for The Pub and Grub Forum!

Source:Netgalley

Would I recommend? : Yep, and when time, it will be heading into my Amazon cart!

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

Special Note: I will be sampling a couple of these recipes on my food blog, The Pub and Grub Forum! http://thepubandgrubforum.blogspot.com/   Be sure to check it out!

The Sweet Magnolias Cookbook: More Than 150 Favorite Southern Recipes by Sherryl Woods and Chef Teddi Wohlford



Book: The Sweet Magnolias Cookbook: More Than 150 Favorite Southern Recipes

Author: Sherryl Woods and Chef Teddi Wohlford

Release date (if applicable): August 28, 2012

Synopsis: A collection of excellent recipes "based" off the author's The Sweet Magnolias series.

My rating: 5 Stars

My opinion: OK, I have to be honest...I have never read a Sherryl Woods book, so I don't knw about The Sweet Magnolias series and can't refer to it in this review. I focused much more on the recipes given. I happen to love when authors do recipes and/or cookbooks for their works. I must admit that I have found some rockin' recipes that way and, in my humble opinion,  this book will not be an exception.

I loved this book though. I swear I am a misplanted Southern girl cuz I love Southern influence in my recipes and this book has it. Not only does it have it, but it presents it in an excellent variety of recipes. In this book, one will find libations, appetizers, main dishes, veggie/side dishes (farmer's market), ethnic, desserts, and my favorite, a low fat section with yummy looking dishes!

Source:Harlequin through Netgalley

Would I recommend? : All I can say is that it is already in my Amazon preorder cart!

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Not sure!

Special Note: I am cross referencing this blog with my food blog, The Pub and Grub Forum. Be sure to check it out as I will be sampling a couple of recipes from the book until its' release date! http://thepubandgrubforum.blogspot.com/

The Gentle Giant of Dynamite Hill: The Untold Story of Arthur Shores and His Family's Fight for Civil Rights by Helen Shores Lee; Barbara Sylvia Shores; Denise George


Book: The Gentle Giant of Dynamite Hill: The Untold Story of Arthur Shores and His Family's Fight for Civil Rights

Author: Helen Shores Lee; Barbara Sylvia Shores; Denise George

Release date (if applicable): September 1, 2012

Synopsis: Arthur Shores, a Civil Rights attorney and Civil Rights leader in the 1950's "era" South. This book, written by his daughters, describes first hand accounts of attacks, including bombings and kidnapping attempts, on the family by the KKK and the despicable acceptance and overlooking by segregationist government leaders.

My rating: Absolutely a very strong 5 star read

My opinion: I have to be totally honest. When I first started this book, I almost put it down and let the publisher know that I would not be reviewing it. The first, approximately, 75 pages of the book were written with such a disconnect and a "just the facts, maam" style that I had to go back and double check that it was written by the daughters. The one daughter is an attorney, so it kind of explained it to me. Most books that I have read written by attorneys have that "concise" manner of writing to them. Push past that because at one point the book opened up and I was not able to put it down. There is still that "feeling" present, but not nearly as much as in the beginning.

This is a period of time that I am starting to read more and more about. I have read hundreds of books on Abraham Lincoln, the Civil War and slavery, but am probably at about 35 books on the Civil Rights "era". This by far one of the best book I have read to date. The authors were able to put "tid bits" of history into story,  written in a manner in which I truly felt like I was there, that I have not seen in other books that I have only seen in one other book.

Furthermore, after the initial pages, this book was so emotionally engrossing that by the epilogue written by daughter, Barbara Sylvia Shores, I was tearing up with how the love, gratitude and influence of her father simply flowed from the pages.

The greatest line from the book:

"You shouldn't hold onto hate because it will eventually destroy YOU!" Arthur Shores (as told to Barbara Sylvia Shores)

Source: Netgalley

Would I recommend? : Absolutely!

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey: The Lost Legacy of Highclere Castle by The Countess of Carnarvon



Book: Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey: The Lost Legacy of Highclere Castle

Author: The Countess of Carnarvon

Release date (if applicable): Released

Synopsis: The Countess of Carnarvon tells the true story of the life of Lady Almina and that of Highclere Castle, which is the setting for Masterpiece Theatre(PBS)'s hit show "Downton Abbey". Lady Almina's experiences include opening Highclere as a WWI hospital, travels to Egypt with her husband and his partner, Howard Carter, for the opening of King Tut's tomb.

My rating: 3 Stars

My opinion: I have to be honest in that I expected a bit more "warmth" to this book. For this book being written by a relative, granted a "by marriage" relative, of Lady Almina, I felt there was almost a disconnect by the author.

On that note, I loved the indepth look at the aristocracy druing that period of time. I found myself frequently shaking my head and chuckling, really to the arrogance and "oppulance" of those in that class during the period of time in which this book was written and the apparent "acceptance" by the author like it was on the same level as breathing and eating.  As a result, I found the book entertaining yet annoying at the same time.

My favorite part of the book had to have been the author's depictions of not only Lady Almina opening the castle as a hospital, but particularly, her husband's travels and work with Howard Carter. Being a huge King Tut "fan", this was just another piece in the history of his life.

Source: Library

Would I recommend? : Yes, it was still an interesting read. To be honest though, if it didn't have the "King Tut" aspect to it, this would have been a 2 star read for me and a "no recommendation".

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Moa by Tricia Stewart Shiu

So things are a lil' bit different this week in A Book and A Review. I am participating in a book tour with Novel Publicity for Tricia Stewart Shiu's book "Moa".  There are giveaways with this so be sure to check them out!!



Book: Moa

Author: Tricia Stewart Shiu

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Please enjoy this excerpt from Moa, a paranormal YA novel with a literary bent by Tricia Stewart Shiu. Then read on to learn how you can win huge prizes as part of this blog tour, including $6000 in Amazon gift cards, a Kindle Fire, 5 autographed copies of Moa, and 5 autographed copies of its sequel, Statue of Ku.

Eighteen-year-old, Hillary Hause’s left thumb searches frantically to turn on the “I’m Okay to Fly” hypnotherapy recording. Her nerves on edge, fuchsia fingernails press into the blue pleather armrests of her airplane seat.
“No spells can help you now,” she whispers to herself under her breath—then checks to see if anyone notices. Nope, they don’t.
The plane lifts through the early morning, gray fog of California, “June Gloom” giving way to the azure sky, and Hillary covers her curly brown head and retreats beneath the questionably clean plane blanket cranking the volume to drown out the drone of the engines.
“Outer shell close to breaking.” This time she doesn’t care if anyone hears.
I hover just beyond her “outer shell”—a movement in the periphery, a faintly familiar scent, a fond memory just beyond recognition, a non-human observer. Before the week is up, Hillary will save my life, as I will hers. But, for now, more about Hillary.
The drink cart rolls past the blanket, which has, by now become a moist steamy cave.

“Hey, freak. I hope your plane crashes.” The memory reverberates through her brain despite her attempts to distract herself with the hypnotherapy recording. She increases the volume, but the ugly conversation, which occurred just before school ended, still haunts her mind.
“I guess the only people they check on those flights are the suspicious ones,” Krystal Sykes, a bully from her home room, leans in as Hillary hastens to grab books for her next class. Krystal, also a senior, has hounded Hillary since the first day of freshman year and this is the final day during the final hour at this tiny high school of 376 students —where everyone knows everyone else’s business.
“Look, Krystal.” Hillary turns her eyes toward the sneering blonde. “It’s the last day of school, we’ll never see each other again. Can you give it a rest?” These are the most words the two young women have exchanged in the entire four years of high school.
A look of shock replaces Krystal’s smug snick, “Oh, so now you talk.” She leans in, so close that her spray tan becomes a patchy Impressionist painting. Her pores are blotched with cakey, two shades too dark powder, her unblended cream eyeshadow creases across the center of her lid and her tropical breeze flavored breath threatens to strangle the words right out of Hillary.
“I know all about your witchcraft practices and have made a few spells of my own. Trust me. You’ll never make it to your sister’s house in Hawaii.” Krystal’s backpack jingles and Hillary watches her spin around and skip down the hall.

Hillary is not a witch. She has, however, carefully crafted a “shell” to protect herself from bullies like Krystal—who, as far as Hillary can tell—is not a witch either. She has watched Krystal throughout elementary, middle and high school and has not been able to discern whether or not she practices witchcraft. No matter what Krystal’s background, her intent is to harm. And there is nothing worse than a spell with an aim to hurt. Hillary has had no choice but to remain in a constant state of defensiveness.
The twenty-minute recording ends and Hillary falls into a troubled sleep—feeling every bump and hearing every creak of the plane.
With about an hour left in the flight, Hillary awakens with a “turtle headache.” Hillary’s older sister Molly taught her this term which means a headache caused by sleeping too long underneath the covers of one’s bed.
Sadly, Molly lost her husband, Steve, last year in an unfortunate surfing accident. The throbbing pain in Hillary’s left temple could be the result of remaining submerged beneath an airplane blanket and wedged between the window and armrest, or it could be from worry about how Molly and her niece, Heidi are dealing with their devastating loss.
Disoriented, Hillary pokes her head out just in time to glimpse puffy clouds and sparkling sea below. A flood of excitement and sheer wonder flows through Hillary in the form of a tingle from her head to her toes. And then, a lovely thought: “…And for an Everlasting Roof, The Gambrels of the Sky…” She will enjoy this plane ride, thanks in part to Emily Dickinson.

As part of this special promotional extravaganza sponsored by Novel Publicity, the price of the Moa and Statue of Ku eBook editions have both been dropped to just 99 cents this week. What’s more, by purchasing either of these fantastic books at an incredibly low price, you can enter to win many awesome prizes. The prizes include $600 in Amazon gift cards, a Kindle Fire, and 5 autographed copies of each book.
All the info you need to win one of these amazing prizes is RIGHT HERE. Remember, winning is as easy as clicking a button or leaving a blog comment–easy to enter; easy to win!
To win the prizes:


  1. Purchase your copies of Moa and Statue of Ku for just 99 cents
  2. Enter the Rafflecopter contest on Novel Publicity
  3. Visit today’s featured social media event
About Moa: Eighteen-year-old, Hillary, anticipates adventure as she embarks for trip to Honolulu, but gets more than she bargained for when Moa, an ancient Hawaiian spirit, pays her an unexpected visit. Get it on Amazon.
About Statue of Ku: The second book in the Moa Book Series, “The Statue of Ku” follows Hillary and Moa as they jet to Egypt on the Prince’s private plane to reclaim Moa’s family heirloom, the inimitable statue of Ku. Get it on Amazon.
About the author: Tricia Stewart Shiu combines her addiction to the written word with her avid interest in the healing arts and all things metaphysical in her novels Moa and Statue of Ku and looks forward to finding new ways to unite her two loves. Visit Tricia on her website, Twitter, Facebook, or GoodReads.


My rating: 4 Stars

My opinion: As I often do when I read Young Adult books, I put myself in the place of a young reader however, at the end, put my adult reviewer hat back on.

I found this book to be delightful. It was CLEAN in language and scenery.  It was a light, engaging story with enjoyable and heartwarming characters and it screamed adventure. In a period of time where  we have headed into dark, almost gothic storylines are the norm or at least permeating this genre. Moa was truly a breath of fresh air. On that note, I found this book to be appropriate for the 'tweens and early Young Adult genre. I think that "older" young adults would find it a bit too light.

Putting my adult reviewer hat back on, I did find that the author had almost "switched" narratives throughout the book. There were times where I felt it was appropriate, but there are times that it really didn't make sense to the storyline. In all honesty, I think with the age group who would be reviewing the book, they would miss it. It is just something to me as a reviewer that popped into my radar.

Source: Novel Publicity

Would I recommend? : Yes, but only for the appropriate age group.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of series. I will be reviewing Statue of Ku (Moa #2) tomorrow.

Monday, June 25, 2012

Novel Publicity Book Tour: An Interview with Tricia Stewart Shiu





Please enjoy this interview with Tricia Stewart Shiu, author of the paranormal YA novel with a literary bent Moa. Then read on to learn how you can win huge prizes as part of this blog tour, including $6000 in Amazon gift cards, a Kindle Fire, 5 autographed copies of Moa, and 5 autographed copies of its sequel, Statue of Ku.

1. The Moa Book series has a metaphysical theme. Do you have any expertise in this area?
I am an energetic intuitive and have a talent for creating powerful healing essential oil blends and gem elixirs. The unearthing of these talents occurred as I embarked on a metaphysical journey, which included studies in mediumship, pagan and Huna rituals as well as an energy healing technique called “Crystalline Consciousness Technique.” I also studied a variety of shamanic clearing methods and healing rituals.
2. You get pretty heavy into the metaphysical. Are you, in fact, a witch?
Like, Hillary, I question who I am on a daily, sometimes hourly, basis. For centuries, women have been persecuted and even killed for being labeled a witch. I have studied many forms of healing rituals and magic and discovered that I have talents for using essential oils and crystals for the highest good. Others, who have witnessed the results of my practices, have called me many things: healer, shaman, and yes, witch. I choose not to accept any of these names but to embrace all of them as one growing changing name—wishealer or heshitch—to coin a phrase…or maybe not. As I discover more talents, gifts and unique parts to myself, this unusual word is sure to undergo a metamorphosis and may grow to the size of Moa’s real, and quite lengthy, Hawaiian name.
3. What are your favorite books and how have they touched you as a reader?
Albert Einstein said, “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” The books/stories that touch me most echo the theme of humanity and self discovery and include a sense of adventure and wonder. Ray Bradbury’s short story, Frost and Fire is a shocking, but tender story about a boy’s journey into a world where people only live eight days. James Joyce’s Portrait of an Artist as a Young Man inspired me to unleash my inner censor and allow my truth to shine though my writing. If I could wish anything for those who read my books, it would be the gift of self acceptance and self acknowledgement.
4. How long does it take you to write a book from start to finish?
Good question. I went back into my notes and discovered that it took me exactly three months and ten days to write Moa from beginning to end. That seems to be my average writing speed, three months. My aunt Rebecca Gummere is my editor extraordinaire. We have developed a comfortable and productive working rhythm that balances creativity and structure and brings such joy and enrichment to the work.
5. Who designs the covers for your books?
The brilliant and talented Sydney Shiu took the cover photos when she was six during a trip to Hawaii. Scott Torrance brought his years of experience in photographic art and design to the layouts.
6. What was the hardest part of writing your book?
The time between stories is the most challenging for me. When I am inside a story and writing I am filled with peace and joy. When I finish and have to leave that world, I mourn the loss of this comforting place–the same is true when I finish reading a great book. Nevertheless, I believe that this sadness brings with it a great opportunity and depth of creativity and I wouldn’t change a thing about the process.
7. Any take-away message you want readers to grasp?
Each of us has at least one divine gift to remember. The moment we wake up and retrieve the memory of who we are and what we are here to do, that’s when the adventure begins.
8. When did you first consider yourself an author?
I was in middle school and read James Joyce’s Portrait of an Artist for the first time. About an hour later, I was overcome by an urge to write, an impulse I readily indulged. Time stood still, I still can’t quite remember what happened during that frenzied period of first creation. All I remember is coming to with pages upon pages filled with words in front of me. It felt incredible to express myself so freely. I’ve never looked back.
9. Did you start out writing novels?
No. I started out writing short stories when I was young. Then when I began acting, I wrote one-woman shows and plays, eventually combining my efforts of performance and writing in a piece called Doing Lunch which made it’s way into a short film trilogy directed by Hal Trussel. That film won “Best Dramatic Short” at the Houston Film Festival.
10. What was your main source of inspiration for the Moa book series?
When I was five, I was visited by a vision. I’ll never forget it, I was running down the stairs and the entity, a girl with dark hair, stopped me in my tracks. The spirit said that I would go through a deeply challenging time in my life, but would resurface, later in life, with unimaginable joy and fulfillment. That vision stayed with me. In middle school, I would sit quietly at my desk adding up the years to figure out exactly when my life would turn around.
And then I forgot. I got busy, my work and the stress of family life took over and I was completely overwhelmed and in desperate need of a vacation. My husband, daughter and I decided to go to Hawaii.
When the plane landed in Honolulu, I remember feeling the difference in the atmosphere as I disembarked. The air made me somehow, remember that there was a part of me that knew…something…what was it?
Never mind, I was in Hawaii it was time to see the sights! So, I sped off to see Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach and then headed home for an afternoon nap before an evening luau. As I drifted toward sleep, I heard my name being called. In my mind’s eye, I saw a beautiful young woman with dark hair, who said her name was Moaahuulikkiaaakea’o Haanaapeekuluueehuehakipuunahe’e—Moa for short.
And then I remembered.

As part of this special promotional extravaganza sponsored by Novel Publicity, the price of the Moa and Statue of Ku eBook editions have both been dropped to just 99 cents this week. What’s more, by purchasing either of these fantastic books at an incredibly low price, you can enter to win many awesome prizes. The prizes include $600 in Amazon gift cards, a Kindle Fire, and 5 autographed copies of each book.
All the info you need to win one of these amazing prizes is RIGHT HERE. Remember, winning is as easy as clicking a button or leaving a blog comment–easy to enter; easy to win!
To win the prizes:
  1. Purchase your copies of Moa and Statue of Ku for just 99 cents
  2. Enter the Rafflecopter contest on Novel Publicity
  3. Visit today’s featured social media event
About Moa: Eighteen-year-old, Hillary, anticipates adventure as she embarks for trip to Honolulu, but gets more than she bargained for when Moa, an ancient Hawaiian spirit, pays her an unexpected visit. Get it on Amazon.
About Statue of Ku: The second book in the Moa Book Series, “The Statue of Ku” follows Hillary and Moa as they jet to Egypt on the Prince’s private plane to reclaim Moa’s family heirloom, the inimitable statue of Ku. Get it on Amazon.
About the author: Tricia Stewart Shiu combines her addiction to the written word with her avid interest in the healing arts and all things metaphysical in her novels Moa and Statue of Ku and looks forward to finding new ways to unite her two loves. Visit Tricia on her website, Twitter, Facebook, or GoodReads.

Friday, June 22, 2012

Dead Scared (Lacey Flint Book 2) by SJ Bolton



Book: Dead Scared

Author: S.J. Bolton

Release date (if applicable): Released

Synopsis: DC Lacey Flint is brought in under cover to investigate the suicides of numerous college co-eds. These co-eds have the perfect psychological histories to justify the suicides, but is there something much more sinister going on? If there is, is Lacey the right cop to solve it or the perfect next victim of a vicious killer?

My rating: Good lord..5 stars all the way!

My opinion: Where to start? First off, as I have read most, if not all,  of S.J. Bolton's works, this is an author that I watch "grow" with each of her releases. This book flew out of the gate and didn't look back with its' intensity, creepiness, tension of characters and situations and downright twistedness. Very Val McDermid'esque in its' writing style and masterful unleashing of the story line which kept me, as the reader, guessing! This book was a perfect example of why I love and seek out female, British mystery writers. 

I literally had to force myself to put this book down to work on other things that I was working on.

I must admit that Val McDermid is my favorite British author. I stalk her stuff to see when new releases are coming out and compare every British author (actually all authors) to the Val factor. Another favorite of mine is JT Ellison. Whenever I read any mystery of any form from any country, my question is always...How does it compare to a Val McDermid or JT Ellison book? Has the author been able to write a strong storyline without having to depend too heavily on the romance dance to prop up weak writing. I must admit that SJ is clipping on the heels of these two authors and my strong opinion is that I will soon be adding her name to the mix.

Source: Netgalley for Publisher

Would I recommend? : Really, with the review I just wrote, do I need to answer this??

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of Series

Lacey Flint Book 1

Calling Invisible Women by Jeanne Ray



Book: Calling Invisible Women

Author: Jeanne Ray

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Clover, a woman of a certain age, wakes up one morning invisible. Yep, I said it invisible. The only thing is that psychologically, Clover has been invisible for years from her family. How can Clover solve both issues of her invisibility and find herself in the end?

My rating: 4 Stars

My opinion: Although this book was out of my normal genre, I found myself really liking this short read. I liked it enough that I will probably read some of the author's other books. Who can't relate to this book when you have been married forever and are mommy and wife.  I just loved the antics and interactions of these women and with Clover and her family, who don't realize she is "missing"! The writing is just plain fun, as well. On what could be a real downer topic, Ms. Ray keeps it extremely light. I found myself chuckling out loud at certain lines, mainly because I could see myself saying it!

I think this book would be really appropriate for those women of a certain age and us who are quickly approaching it!

This is a perfect Summer read!

Source: Publicist provided

Would I recommend? : Yep, in fact I have.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Whispering Tides by Guido Mattioni


Book: Whispering Tides

Author: Guido Mattioni

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Upon the sudden death of his beloved wife, 50 year old Alberto leaves Milan, Italy for Savannah, Georgia, a place that he and his wife had relished together. Alberto uses a move to Savannah to work through the grief and confusion of his loss.

My rating: 4.5 Stars

My opinion: Hmmm, to be honest, I think this is one of the most unusual books that I have read this year. Mattioni writes a very deep book relating to the grief of his main character, yet is able to keep it light. You can feel his grief from your fingertips to the tips of your toes, yet his character and the supporting characters have that deep south charm and wit that I happen to love about the South.

The only thing that kept throwing me off was that Mattioni kept throwing in references to the historical South. Some I think fit into the story line and some I kept asking myself what the point was. This was also the reason this book wasn't a 5 star read.

I can put this book on the list of works on why I prefer Indie authors over Big House Publishing. I think it is also a prime example of what those who are closed minded to the works of indie authors  are missing. This book was incredibly unique in its' presentation and I think the author showed talent to present two levels of storyline...A charming one on the top level to warm the hearts of the readers while capturing the pain, hurt and loss of Alberto in the "sub level". I think if he would have chosen to write this book in any other method, he would be missing a critical component.

Source: Author provided

Would I recommend? : Yes, in fact I already have.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone

Sunday, June 17, 2012

The Burning (Maeve Kerrigan #1) by Jane Casey



Book: The Burning

Author: Jane Casey

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: There is a Burning Man serial killer running around London. His latest victim, Rebecca Haworth, has a history behind her, but is she truly his latest victim or of a plot much more sinister. DC Maeve Kerrigan is determined to find out even if it kills her!

My rating: 4 stars

My opinion: I loved this series debut so much that I ended up grabbing the next in the series, The Reckoning (to be reviewed at a later date) from this dynamic author.

In my opinion, this book was much more of a psychological thriller than a slice and dice. I did find myself at times getting bored with areas that seemed to drag on and my rating is reflective of that. I think if the author had "spruced" it up with a little bit more "action", I would definitely heading into the 5 star range. The author slightly reminded me of a tamer Val McDermid and JT Ellison. As more of her books come out, we will see if she can live up to that twisted sister level of "twistedness" yet maintaining high quality writing of these dynamic authors.

Source: Library

Would I recommend? : Absolutely

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: First in series

Tattooed (Kate Lange #3) by Pamela Callow

Sorry for the horrible picture! It was the only one which would post!

Book: Tattooed

Author: Pamela Callow

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Kate Lange is brought in on a case with ringings from her past. Kenzie Sloane, a well recognized tattoo artist,  is arrested for the murder of a young woman discarded in the bogs of Halifax. What did Kenzie, if anything, have to do with it and does it have anything to do with Kate's sister's death?

My rating: 4 Stars

My opinion: Good Lord, Ms. Callow strikes again!  Although this isn't my favorite of the series, it is still a strong contender.  When I saw this on Netgalley, I hit request and crossed my fingers really, really hard! It was such an honor to review this book for both Harlequin and Ms. Callow.

Pamela Callow is an author that I stalk her website to see when her next book is coming out and she is on my list for "the most unrecognized AWESOME contemporary authors".  

Pamela Callow has the capabilities to writing strong characters who you feel you can reach out and touch! Her story lines are well developed and laid out unwrapping bit by bit to entice readers. Although this continues to be present in Tattooed, I thought the story line was a bit weaker and less interesting to me than her other two releases. But make no doubts based on this that this isn't an author or book that I regularly recommend. In fact, this book received a spot on my Pinterest board "Books Worth Reading, 2012" BEFORE IT EVEN HAD COVER ART!

Source: Netgalley for Harlequin

Would I recommend? : See above!

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of Series (both 5 stars from me!)


Kate Lange #1

Kate Lange #2

Friday, June 15, 2012

The Cottage at Glass Beach by Heather Barbieri


Book: The Cottage at Glass Beach

Author: Heather Barbieri

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Nora, who has suffered a very public humiliation by the release of an affair by her very public husband, escaped to the Maine coast where she lived with a maternal aunt after her mother disappeared. Licking her wounds, she meets a fisherman with his own demons who helps her to overcome the grief of her husband's betrayal.

My rating: 1 Star

My opinion: What drew me to this book originally was that it was reviewed by an author I really like. It isn't what kept me there though. I found this book to be cookie cutter and boring. This book is the epitome of what is put out by big house publishers that is pure vanilla with the same old storyline regurgitated into yet another book. I recently read a blog post by an author I follow on twitter that asks if there are really any other "original" story lines left. If this book was an indication, I would say "NO!"

I actually found myself skimming over parts of the book because it was so predictable in spots that I really just wanted it to end and it was a fairly short book.

Source: Library

Would I recommend? : No, although there will be readers out there who enjoy it.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone


The Unholy by Heather Graham


Book: The Unholy (Krewe of Hunters #6)

Author: Heather Graham

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: The Krewe of Hunters are at it again. This time they are called in to investigate the death of a Hollywood starlet. Could there really be something paranormal to her death or something much more malevolent?

My rating:  3 Stars

My opinion: I had originally given this book 4 stars as the story line was incredibly enticing. As I reflected on the book though, I had to honestly tell myself that it wasn't my favorite in the series. Although the premise of the story line is creepy. I thought it was much more "light" than where Ms. Graham could have and has gone in the past. The best of the series...The Evil Inside! Now that is just one really creepy book this. The Unholy tried but didn't quite reach it!

Source: Netgalley

Would I recommend? : Sure

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Part of series


Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Grammar Girl's 101 Troublesome Words You Will Master in No Time by Mignon Fogarty


Book: Grammar Girl's 101 Troublesome Words You Will Master in No Time

Author: Mignon Fogarty

Release date (if applicable): July 3, 2012

Synopsis: GG breaks down numerous words frequently misspoken in the English language today.

My rating: 5 Stars

My opinion: I love, love, love Grammer Girl. I refer to her site and books frequently and here is just another example of her awesomeness! Laid out beautifully with excellent examples given and entertaining fun facts, which make learning fun, I think her series of books are wonderful for students, business people and writers or anyone interested in speaking the English language properly!

Source: Netgalley

Would I recommend? : You know it!

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Not sure. This author has many books on proper use of the English language published!

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

One Breath Away by Heather Gudenkauf


Book: One Breath Away

Author: Heather Gudenkauf

Release date (if applicable): June 19, 2012

Synopsis: A gunman takes over a school in Broken Branch, Iowa. Who is this intruder and why would he target the most innocent? Who will survive it? How will the past come back to impact the present? 

My rating: 3 stars

My opinion: First, let me preface this review by telling the readers of this review that I LOVE the writing of Heather Gudenkauf. I was all over this bad boy when I saw it on Netgalley. Her previous works have garnered 4 stars from me, but really closer to 5 stars.

On that note, this book left me kind of cold. I could never get into the characters which is odd as character development is an incredibly strong capability for this author. There were literally times that I felt like this book was walking through quick sand for me. For example, it took me 4 days to read this book, normally, I read her books within hours or at least, within the day.

Food for thought...this book received no less than 4 stars from Goodreads friends of mine, with the majority being 5 star reviews. Even readers that our ratings tend to parallel each other rated it 5 stars. What does this mean... I can't rule out that I didn't over hype this book in my mind.

You have all the information...I'll let you make the decision. I would love to hear your take!

Source: Netgalley

Would I recommend? : Yes, I would still not only recommend this book, but, most definitely the author.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

The Sun Zebra: Adventures in Living of Nell and Her Family by Rolando Garcia



Book: The Sun Zebra

Author: Rolando Garcia

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: A collection of short stories about the author's precocious daughter.

My rating: 3 Stars

My opinion: I enjoyed reading this 67 page book about the author's daughter. While the stories were sweet, they were incredibly light without being corn syrup sweet. I read the book in less than 1/2 hour and, kicked back on the couch, because of how relaxing it was, it had capped off a very strenuous day of  heavier duty reading and such. I loved that there were little hidden lessons behind the escapades of Lil Nell!

Source: Author provided

Would I recommend? : Yes

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

Monday, June 11, 2012

Shelter by Frances Greenslade





Book: Shelter

Author: Frances Greenslade

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Jenny and Maggie live a sheltered, rustic life with their parents in 1970's Oregon. Tragedy strikes when their father is killed in a logging accident and their mother disappears after taking a cooking job in a logging camp. The girls are forced to live with a neighbor. How will this effect them? Why did their mother disappear. Was it by her own choice or something more sinister?

My rating: 4 stars

My opinion: I enjoyed this book and finished it in one sitting. The book was engrossing, on many fronts, almost as though I was reading a psychological, study, as I watched these girls grow up and be changed by the incidents in their lives.  I thought that the author's depiction of the girls was phenomenal as these were girls I grew fond of reading them in the pages. There was an innocence to them that was overshadowed by desperate moves, yet never truly losing their connection to one another even with the tragic losses in their lives. The mystery of the mother's disappearance permeated the book, although it wasn't the central theme to the book. Why would a mother abandon her girls who already had lost their father in such a tragic incident?

Source: Library

Would I recommend? : Yes, it was a unique read

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone

Saturday, June 9, 2012

The Wishing Rock Theory of Life: A Novel with Recipes by Pam Stucky




Book: The Wishing Rock Theory of Life: A Novel with Recipes

Author: Pam Stucky

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Written as a series of emails and text messages, life in Wishing Rock has some changes and adaptations coming to it. Who will survive it? How will life on the quaint little island change forever?

My rating: 3.5 Stars. This will be 4 stars on Goodreads and Amazon.

My opinion: I have been racking my brain with trying to put a finger on how I would describe this series and why I enjoyed reviewing it. I have decided this series reminds me of the television show "Seinfeld". You know the quirky cast of characters who discuss basically nothing, but their sarcastic humor and likability sucks you in. So with that said, onto my review.  I am going to go against the tide of reviewers on this one. I actually preferred the first book to the second book. When I read the first book, I kind of liked the light tones with the humor and recipes tucked into the pages. "Theory" had some serious story lines woven into it which kind of threw me off (for example, the bro code or the dissolving of relationships!). Even with this, Stucky was able to maintain the chuckle out loud sarcastic quips, but I did find myself thrown off by some of the serious undertones of the book.

I must say that I enjoyed the recipes in the first book over the second book, as well (come on, Chocolate Oat Bars!!). However, this one has a killer quiche recipe in it that I am dying to try.

Now, this book actually has a higher rating on Goodreads than her first one has, so, as I said, I am going against the tide. I knew what I was expecting from the book will be different than what other readers expect from it. So, as they say in AA...take what you need and leave the rest!

Source: Author Provided

Would I recommend? : Yes, in fact, I have

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Series

Letters from Wishing Rock Book 1

Friday, June 8, 2012

The Girl Who Swam to Atlantis by Elle Thornton



Book: The Girl Who Swam to Atlantis

Author: Elle Thornton

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Gabriella just coming into her teen years in the 1950's segregated South struggles with boys, her mother, who doesn't want to be found, living in a mental institution, trying to convince her father not to send her to boarding school and pondering the death of Emmett Till, a 14 year old Black young man shot in the head after being savagely beaten, weights tied to his body and being dumped like trash in a river, in 1955 for wolf whistling a White married woman. She devises a plan to win a swimming contest to solve all of her problems. This plan will involve being trained to swim by Hawkins a Black man who works in her father's military quarters. In the racially divided South, is this a smart plan and will Hawkins survive associating with a young White woman? How will the Summer of 1957 change Gabriella and will it be for the better?

My rating: 5 Stars

My opinion: A very thoughtful coming of age book written for that audience (preteen to young teens). The writing is superb and I really felt I was in Gabriella's head with some of the "magical" thinking of the littlest things will solve life's biggest problems. This book was not over the top, at all. Racial references were written very tastefully.

I must admit that I have come across some very tastefully written books on very important subjects in the YA genre and that makes me feel good when so many of the books coming out are on vampires, witches and stuff like that. This book was a breath of fresh air to make teens think about the past and vicious moments in our history.

I must admit that I had to keep in mind that this book was written for the preteen-early teen audience. I would have liked to have see more detail on the death of Emmett Till, since the book was dedicated to him and frequently referred to him "in the shadows of the event" that was his death. I think this could have been accomplished have been accomplished by even a short prologue into who he was and why he died such an ugly death.  However, even I must admit that this is a fine line, had she have gone too graphic, I would have been ripping her apart in this review for portraying too much violence with our children.

Source: Author Provided

Would I recommend? :  Yes, even to adults. When I finally got to it, it was a very quick read. I read it in one sitting, but it would be a very light read for adults.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone


Thursday, June 7, 2012

A Simple Murder: A Mystery by Eleanor Kuhns





Book: A Simple Murder: A Mystery

Author: Eleanor Kuhns

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Rees, a former Revolutionary War soldier, returns to a son he deserted. The son has ran away to join the Quakers and Rees joins him to seek forgiveness and reconciliation. While there, murder ensues and Rees is the suspect. Did Rees do it or is something much more sinister going on?

My rating: 2 Stars

My opinion:  OK, to be honest, I expected more out of this award winning novel and my rating might reflect it. I wouldn't give it more than 3 stars though.  I thought the language, scenes and overall feel of the book didn't reflect the time period or setting of the book. When I read a historical fiction novel, I want to feel like I am lost in that period of time. This one just didn't have that feel. In incidents of the book that, understanding that period of time, would never have happened, it makes me wonder how deeply the author went into her research of that period of time and Quakers.

Second, there were areas of the book that it felt like the author had "skipped" over telling the story because she would throw in a scene depicting the incident although the incident had never occurred in the book. That didn't happen too often, but it did leave me with a "WTH??" feeling. In one incident where 2 characters were discussing an aspect of a murder that happened, I literally went back to research if that was described...only to find out she hadn't added that aspect.

Finally, the characters left me very cold. I just thought they were written in a "just the facts, ma'am" style and I couldn't warm up to ANY of them.

Source: Library

Would I recommend? : No

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Beneath the Shadows by Sara Foster




Book: Beneath the Shadows

Author: Sara Foster

Release date (if applicable): June 5, 2012

Synopsis: Grace's husband, Adam, disappears after he moves her to the isolated moors of Yorkshire. Did he leave her intentionally? Was foul play involved? What do the towns folk have to do with it...or is it all in Grace's mind?

My rating: 4 stars

My opinion: I was a bit nervous about this book. I thought the first 100 pages moved too slowly for my liking and I thought either I wouldn't finish the book or that it would be given a lower rating. Then, BAM it took off and never looked back.

This is absolutely my type of book with the English countryside setting with the strange "towns folk" to boot. This book honestly had so much going on beneath the surface that I thought for sure it was going to turn out another way, so the book was consistently moving for me while I tried to guess the ending.

I agree with a Goodreads reviewer who said the book reminded her much more of Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights than the consistent reference to the Daphne Du Maurier's Rebecca.

Source: Netgalley for St. Martin's Press

Would I recommend? : Yep! I would be careful in recommending it though.  This was a true "British" mystery full of gothic atmosphere. There are a lot of readers who state that they like this type of book until they get into it and then it is too dark for them.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone

The Rescue of Belle and Sundance: One Town's Incredible Race To Save Two Abandoned Horses by Birgit Stutz and Lawrence Scanlan


Book: The Rescue of Belle and Sundance: One Town's Incredible Race To Save Two Abandoned Horses

Author: Birgit Stutz and Lawrence Scanlan

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Two horses, cruelly abandoned in the  Snowy Canadian Rocky Mountains, are destined to a sure death until the town McBride,  British Columbia, Canada, comes to their rescue.

My rating: 3 Stars

My opinion: Although I thought the story of the rescue of these horses was AMAZING, I thought the writing was stiff and too formal for such an emotional story. I was in awe how this town came together and worked as a team to ensure that these horses survived even with the frigid temperatures.

Source: Library

Would I recommend? : Yes, I think the story was sweet.

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand alone

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

No Buddy Left Behind: Bringing US Troops' Dogs and Cats Home from the Combat Zone by Terri Crisp


Book: No Buddy Left Behind: Bringing US Troops' Dogs and Cats Home from the Combat Zone

Author: Terri Crisp

Release date (if applicable): Published

Synopsis: Ms. Crisp relates stories of bringing back dogs and cats that soldiers serving in the Middle East have grown attached to and their odyssey to bring them to the US.

My rating: 5 Stars

My opinion:  This book has the two things I love a bunch in my life! The US military and animals. I have been familiar with the work Ms. Crisp has done on behalf of our military and her love of animals. I have seen multiple documentaries on Operation Baghdad Pups, as well spotlights on animals she has brought back through the operation. I didn't give this book 5 stars for its' writing (and frankly, if it came off as being "professionally written" I probably wouldn't have given it 5 stars. I gave this book 5 stars for the pure "emotionality" of the book. I will admit that there were times that I was tearing up, not only for happiness, but as I was reading how these animals suffer in the Middle East, yet how they keep their hearts open when they are shown love by our military. Coming from a psychology background, although I have read several books on this topic, I thought it was interesting to see how Ms. Crisp related stories of the dogs suffering from PTSD symptoms. Makes them even a little bit more human like in my book. I ended up reading this book in a couple of hours because I simply couldn't put it down.

Source: Library

Would I recommend? : Yes, to animal lovers

Stand Alone or Part of a Series: Stand Alone