Review: The Distant Sound of Thunder

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

Katie Stuckey and Jonas Weaver are both romantics. Seventeen-year-old Katie is starry-eyed, in love with the idea of being in love, and does not want to wait to marry Jonas until she is eighteen, despite her parents’ insistence. So much can happen in a year. Twenty-year-old Jonas is taken in by the romance of soldiering, especially in defense of anti-slavery, even though he knows war is at odds with the teachings of the church. When his married brother’s name comes up in the draft list, he volunteers to take his brother’s place. But can the commitment Katie and Jonas have made to each other survive the separation?

From the talented pen of Jan Drexler comes this brand new Amish series set against the backdrop of the Civil War. She puts her characters to the test as they struggle to reconcile their convictions and desires while the national conflict threatens to undermine and engulf their community.

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

The Distant Sound of Thunder by Jan Drexler gives an insider’s view to the realities of an Amish lifestyle. The people are forbidden to live like the outsiders. Violence is not their way of life. However, a young Amish man wants to serve in the military. But he has decisions to make. He has a young Amish woman waiting for his hand in marriage and he has to follow the community rules. Despite what his community says, young Jonas enlists in the army in his brother’s place. I was amazed at the young man’s courage and bravery. He steps up to serve his country and at the same time manages a way to follow his faith. Jan Drexler offers a clean Christian read full of emotions. I recommend this book to readers everywhere.

Review: Delayed Justice

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

She had long given up the desire to be loved. Now she only needed to be heard.

Jaime Nichols went to law school to find the voice she never had as a child, and her determination to protect girls and women in the path of harm drives her in ways both spoken and unspoken. As Jaime, now a criminal defense attorney, prepares to press charges against someone who wronged her long ago, she must face not only her demons but also the unimaginable forces that protect the powerful man who tore her childhood apart.

Chandler Bolton, a retired veteran, is tasked with helping a young victim who must testify in court—and along with his therapy dog, Aslan, he’s up for the task. When he first meets Jaime, all brains, beauty, and brashness, he can’t help but be intrigued. As Chandler works to break through the wall Jaime has built around herself, the two of them discover that they may have more to offer one another than they ever could have guessed—and that together, they may be able to help this endangered child.

This thrilling installment of the Hidden Justice series explores the healing power of resolution and the weight of words given voice. And as Jaime pursues delayed justice of her own, she unearths eternal truths that will change the course of her life.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Delayed Justice by Cara Putman is a crime fiction novel that focuses on women’s voice in the world of justice. The heroine works to defend and protect these women. Yet this woman has a long road ahead of her. She is working on pursuing charges against someone in her past. Jamie will need all the courage and help to move forward. Then there’s Chandler and his dog who are up to the task of helping Jamie. Jamie brings  an unexpected outcome to Chandler’s world. He cannot help but to feel more towards this strong heroine.

Cara Putman crafted a beautiful engaging tale. I could not help but to feel sympathy and love for the protagonists. They had me rooting for them all the way. There were both emotional and physical boundaries that they had to work through…it made for an entertaining yet suspenseful story. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to all readers.

Review: New

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

Found in a dying jungle, six strange babies ae spirited off to the United States where a fantastic discovery is made.
Like us, they are hominids. They don’t share our DNA but they’re highly intelligent.
So they’re animals–less than slaves, but as smart as us.
They are incredibly valuable and the company that discovered them sees a fortune in the making by selling their offspring. But not if primate expert Beth Cooke, brought in to get them to breed, and her Army Ranger husband Charlie have anything to say about it.
Will these brilliant captives get their chance to discover themselves, to look up at the stars, to be free…or will they become an animal commodity, bought and sold like cattle?

Get this extraordinary novel today and find out!

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

New by Whitley Strieber is an exciting novel that explores slavery and the extent to how far drug companies will go. Primates are found that peak the interest of a drug company. They use them to breed and sell since they’re not considered humans. Slavery of any kind is inhumane. Especially, with the intentions of this evil group. Money goes far when needed. But even then, a shine of humanity comes through…It was to see how long humanity took over…civilized can be taken many ways. The drug company completely lost their civilized ways and humanity. Morals disappeared. Danger, risks, and evil lurked on every page. Whitley Strieber created a fast-paced tale. One that grabbed my attention from the get go.

New is a frightening read that lingers long after the last page.

 

Review: The Healing by Linda Byler

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

A hopeful story of unexpected love in the midst of illness, pain, and family conflict

John is the youngest of seven boys and is constantly overshadowed by his big brothers who seem to all be stronger, smarter, and better looking than he is. As a teenager, he knows he’s overweight and is sure he’ll never be popular like his brothers are. But those struggles are nothing compared to the battle he is about to fight. After weeks of feeling exhausted, depressed, and achy, he has no idea what’s wrong with him and begins to wonder if he’ll be miserable for the rest of his life. By the time he is finally diagnosed with Lyme disease, his body is failing and his spirits are nearly at rock bottom.

John’s parents and brothers try to help him, but as weeks turn into months with no real sign of improvement, the illness begins to take its toll on all of them. Minor disagreements turn into angry fights and old hurts surface amidst uncertainty and exhaustion. The Amish family that was once so tightly knit is unraveling before John’s eyes.

When John’s older brother Samuel begins dating Lena Zook—John’s eighth grade teacher—he tries to be happy for them, but it’s hard not to feel jealous. With all his health issues, John figures he’ll be lucky if he makes it through rumschpringe at all; he doesn’t dare hope to date anyone as lovely and smart and fun as Lena is.

Determined not to continue burdening his family, John begins to discover a quiet inner strength, even as his body falters. Recovery seems far off, but he nurtures a glimmer of hope that God has not forgotten him. And is it his imagination, or is Lena starting to spend more time with him than she’s spending with Samuel? Torn between following his heart and the fear of tearing his family apart even more, John’s struggles seem to only get more complicated, even as that glimmer of hope fans into flame.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Healing by Linda Byler is a Christian novel that grabbed me in quickly. An Amish family once happy and fine, suffers. The youngest Amish boy is constantly picked on by his brothers. None of them understood what he was going through nor how he felt. I felt so much sympathy for John I wanted to hug him. But seeing as I couldn’t, all I could do was cheer and pray for him. His journey is one filled with sadness, shame, guilt, responsibility, and love. God is good. Themes of faith, family, and love are strong. The mother wanted to give up multiple times, when John was suffering. Yet, her husband never let her fall down from her faith. He kept strong holding her up despite the downfalls. I fell in love with the entire family. It was hard not to…I saw them at their best and their worst. No novel, I have read has quite shown me the realistic sides to an Amish family. No one is perfect. We all suffer. How we handle it is where we might differ. Overall, this novel tested my strength.

Review: All We Ever Wanted was Everything by Janelle Brown

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

A smart, comic page-turner about a Silicon Valley family in free fall over the course of one eventful summer.

When Paul Miller’s pharmaceutical company goes public, making his family IPO millionaires, his wife, Janice, is sure this is the windfall she’s been waiting years for — until she learns, via messengered letter, that her husband is divorcing her (for her tennis partner!) and cutting her out of the new fortune.

Meanwhile, four hundred miles south in Los Angeles, the Millers’ older daughter, Margaret, has been dumped by her newly famous actor boyfriend and left in the lurch by an investor who promised to revive her fledgling post-feminist magazine, Snatch. Sliding toward bankruptcy and dogged by creditors, she flees for home where her younger sister Lizzie, 14, is struggling with problems of her own. Formerly chubby, Lizzie has been enjoying her newfound popularity until some bathroom graffiti alerts her to the fact that she’s become the school slut.

The three Miller women retreat behind the walls of their Georgian colonial to wage battle with divorce lawyers, debt collectors, drug-dealing pool boys, mean girls, country club ladies, evangelical neighbors, their own demons, and each other, and in the process they become achingly sympathetic characters we can’t help but root for, even as the world they live in epitomizes everything wrong with the American Dream. Exhilarating, addictive, and superbly accomplished, All We Ever Wanted Was Everything crackles with energy and intelligence and marks the debut of a knowing and very funny novelist, wise beyond her years.

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

All We Ever Wanted was Everything by Janelle Brown is a realistic story of how one event during the summer turned a family’s world upside down. Each member has their own struggle. One with divorce from her cheating husband, a daughter with boys, a sister with her career, and one sister who is broke. They all live together trying to make sense of their lives and find themselves. The news media is cruel and depicts the mother as a greedy woman wanting of all her husband’s money. While her husband and father of her children is spot lighted as a decent man full of power. I felt sad for the family of women. Yet despite their troubles they came out stronger and better. Messy, complicated, funny, and engaging, this novel was entertaining to read. I enjoyed meeting the Miller women. It sort of reminded me of The Little Women.

Review: Formula of Deception by Carrie Stuart Parks

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

“I love Carrie Stuart Parks’s skill in writing characters with hysterical humor, unwitting courage and page-turning mystery. I hope my readers won’t abandon me completely when they learn about her!” —Terri Blackstock, USA TODAY bestselling author of If I Run, If I’m Found, and If I Live

An artist hiding from an escaped killer uncovers one of World War II’s most dangerous secrets—a secret that desperate men will do anything to keep hidden.

After the murder of her twin sister, Murphy Anderson changed her name and appearance and moved to Kodiak, Alaska, to avoid the press and publicity. But when local authorities discover she’s an artist and request her help in drawing a dying man’s memories, she unintentionally ends up in the limelight again—and back in the killer’s crosshairs.

The deathbed confessions of an Alaskan hunter have Murphy drawing the five bodies he discovered on remote Ruuwaq Island ten years ago. But what investigators find has them mystified. Evidence suggests that the bodies were deliberately destroyed, and what they uncover in an abandoned Quonset hut from World War II only brings more questions.

As one by one the investigators who were at the hut die, Murphy knows there is something much darker at stake. What happened on this island during the war? And who is willing to kill to keep its secrets buried?

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Formula of Deception by Carrie Stuart Parks is definitely for fans of Heather Graham, J.T. Ellison, and Brenda Novak. Carrie Stuart Parks brings a lot of excitement and danger in this thrilling read. A crime investigation leads back to a historical secret that somebody is  willing to kill to keep buried. Yet, investigators are getting closer and their death hangs into the air. As new and old victims pile up, the intensity of the situation rises. This dark Alaskan murder mystery, kept giving me chills.

Inside Formula of Deception, I got to meet a twin of a dead woman. The twin, Murphy Anderson, goes into hiding. Staying away from a murderer, is the plan. However, Murphy is soon drawn out of hiding and back into danger. Murphy has a talent that is needed for an investigation. This now, puts her at high risk. The murderer is still killing people to keep the historical secret hidden. It’s only a matter of time, before everything escalates out of control. Overall, this one was phenomenal.

 

Review: The Orphan’s Wish by Melanie Dickerson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

From the streets to an orphanage in a faraway kingdom, Aladdin has grown up alone. Until he meets Kirstyn. With a father who is the duke of Hagenheim and a mother who is the patroness of the orphanage where Aladdin lives, Kirstyn is a member of the most powerful family in the land . . . and way out of his league. Despite the difference in their stations, Aladdin quickly becomes Kirstyn’s favorite companion for taking walks in the forest, and their childhood friendship grows along with them.

Through his scrappy skills, intelligence, and hard work, Aladdin earns a position serving in the duke’s house. But he knows it isn’t enough to grant him his one desire: Kirstyn’s hand in marriage. If he hopes to change his station in life and feel worthy of marrying Kirstyn, he must leave Hagenheim to seek his fortune.

But once Aladdin leaves, no one is around to protect Kirstyn, and the greedy men desperate to take advantage of her father’s wealth take notice. Now, more than Aladdin’s background stands in the way of the future he’s worked so hard to obtain. His only hope is to rescue Kirstyn and somehow manage to win her hand as well.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Orphan’s Wish by Melanie Dickerson is another form of Aladdin. This one has so much more meaning and depth than the original Aladdin story. Yes, not stealing is the main moral of the story, but it holds more emotional luggage. Themes of friendship, love, and hope are discovered here. Somehow, a weave of Christian influence has been swept into the tale. It created a hopeful plot with characters searching for peace of mind and heart. Some violence is found in the book. Violence such as theft, bullying, and child abuse are mentioned. However, it is so low and almost non-existent.

Aladdin grew up knowing loss, grief, bullying, and theft. He has always felt ashamed of himself. One day, he sees young Kirstyn and they instantly become friends. Their friendship blossoms and as they grew older it turned into something much more. An attraction formed between a wealthy lady and an orphaned abused boy.  Aladdin felt the pressure of not being able to give his lady, Kirstyn what she deserves. So, he raised himself up the ladder and worked hard to provide her with a good home and a happy life. But will it be enough? Together, they help each other and create a happiness that is hard to ignore. I found this novel to be sweet, engaging, and heartfelt.

Review: Louisiana Catch by Sweta Vikram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

A grieving daughter and abuse survivor must summon the courage to run a feminist conference, trust a man she meets over the Internet, and escape a catfishing stalker to find her power.
Ahana, a wealthy thirty-three-year-old New Delhi woman, flees the pain of her mother’s death, and her dark past, by accepting a huge project in New Orleans, where she’ll coordinate an annual conference to raise awareness of violence against women. Her half-Indian, half-Irish colleague and public relations guru, Rohan Brady, who helps Ahana develop her online presence, offends her prim sensibilities with his raunchy humor. She is convinced that he’s a womanizer.

Meanwhile, she seeks relief from her pain in an online support group, where she makes a good friend: the mercurial Jay Dubois, who is also grieving the loss of his mother. Louisiana Catch is an emotionally immersive novel about identity, shame, and who we project ourselves to be in the world. It’s a book about Ahana’s unreliable instincts and her ongoing battle to determine whom to place her trust in as she, Rohan, and Jay shed layers of their identities.

“Louisiana Catch is a triumph. In Ahana, Sweta Vikram has created an unforgettable character, strong, wise, and deeply human, who’ll inspire a new generation struggling to come to terms with their identity in a world of blurring identities.” –KARAN BAJAJ, New York Times bestselling author, The Yoga of Max’s Discontent

“In Louisiana Catch, Sweta Vikram brings life to the complex human rights issue of violence against women. Through one woman’s journey to make sense of her past and ultimately heal, Vikram shows us that yoga can reconnect us to ourselves, and that by empowering others, we transform our own lives.” –ZOE LEPAGE, Founder, Exhale to Inhale

“Louisiana Catch perfectly captures what it means to be human in a digital world, where support groups meet online, love interests flirt on Twitter, and people get confused with personas. Equal parts tender and playful, moving and hopeful, Vikram’s prose connects us with timeless truths about grief and redemption in a satisfyingly modern way.” –STEPHANIE PATERIK, Managing Editor, Adweek

Learn more at http://www.SwetaVikram.com
From Modern History Press, http://www.ModernHistoryPress.com

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Louisiana Catch by Sweta Vikram is like a drug. It pulls you into its depth and hooks you inside of its journey. This was one epic path that the writer lead me on…I was intrigued. A woman, Ahana, finds herself in one of the most complicated and dangerous situations a woman should never be found in, yet Ahana does. She lost her mother and she soon becomes a victim to her husband’s brutal sexual torment.

Rape is ongoing issue women worldwide still face. This issue should be solved yet so many fall victim. Some never survive that form of destruction, both physically and emotionally. I found myself crying for Ahana. Her losses are so great and many. People she should be able to trust turn out to be the worst. I felt the fear, the risks, and the danger as the plot carries me from beginning to end. Ahana is a strong female protagonist. She may loose her way occasionally but eventually finds it. No one is perfect. Life is messy.

Sweta Vikram captures my attention with the devasting events and the suspense of what will come from it. I felt sympathy and a connection instantly to Ahana. I really liked her. Her colleague, Rohan, is another great character. He was there helping her. Or trying to help her when she was in a bad situation. From the beginning to end of her journey, Rohan supports Ahana. Ahana at times made me want to shake her, for her carelessness but she has grown into a wonderful woman at the end of her journey. This is one unforgettable character that will forever live in the minds of readers like me and countless others. There are so many things that drag readers into Ayana’s sad yet powerful story. Overall, I would recommend this novel to all women including those who have been abused. It shows that even though the world is a dark place, there too, is a light that will eventually shine bright.

Review: Against A Crimson Sky

Synopsis:

The continuation of the sweeping story of young Countess Anna Maria, introduced in the epic PUSH NOT THE RIVER, as Poland picks up the pieces and joins forces with Napoleon in an attempt to bring down Russia.

 

AGAINST A CRIMSON SKY tells the interrelated stories of four characters in the aftermath of the violent dissolution of Poland in 1794 and culminates in the doomed 1812 winter march into Russia. Countess Anna Maria Berezowska has finally married her true love, Jan Stelnicki, but life is anything but ideal. Not long into their union, Jan takes to the battlefield in the hopes of ensuring a sovereign Poland for his children. Meanwhile, his best friend on the front lines continues to pine for Anna’s cousin, Zofia, but she has her sights set a little higher…on the emperor Napoleon. 

AGAINST A CRIMSON SKY interweaves these tales of intrigue, love and betrayal as one proud nation and one strong family struggle for unity.

Rating: 5-stars 

Review:

Against A Crimson Sky by James Conroyd Martin is a stunning historical read. I loved it. I got to experience the Polish culture and the people of Poland. My grandmother is Polish so, reading this was even more exciting for me. War times are difficult and can bring much sadness. Hope, courage, love, and family life are strong themes inside this novel. A noble woman loses her son and husband to war. Pregnant again, she’s hoping for a girl. Fate has a funny way of bringing a family together and tearing them apart. Intense, well-told, and engaging. I felt like I was inside the protagonist’s shoes. Her life became my own the instant I opened the book. Adventure of a lifetime was waiting for me on the pages. Pages that moved me quickly through the conflict, emotions, and actions from the scenes. James Conroyd Martin brilliantly captured a people and their lives in his writing. Words that became three-dimensional once they were read. Uncertainty, lies ahead but the ending was beautiful. I was happy it ended the way it did. Felt right. Overall, I highly recommend Against A Crimson Sky to readers worldwide. 

Review: The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories

Synopsis:

Jacey met the man of her dreams a year ago—and hasn’t seen him since. Finally relocating him as the pastor at her best friend’s wedding was the very last thing she expected.

A year ago, Jacey was trapped on a rooftop during a flood with perfect strangers, including a family and a man named Colin. After two days there together, she had no doubt that Colin was the man of her dreams. When they were finally rescued he tucked his phone number into her pocket. But an accident with the rescue boat left her hospitalized with amnesia and PTSD . . . and his number nowhere to be found.

Now, Jacey has still only recovered bits and pieces of her memory from that time. She clearly remembers Colin—but not his last name or any other details that would help her locate him. She’s trying to immerse herself in the joy of her best friend’s wedding . . . when she looks up at the end of the aisle only to discover Colin there in the minister’s role. Shock is an understatement.

On one hand, she’s elated to see him again. And then reality sets in. She never intended to get married or have kids. And being a minister’s wife was definitely never on her list. Was Colin not the man she thought he was? Or has the amnesia changed her more than she realized?

With the typical wit and honesty Celeste Fletcher McHale is becoming known for, it’s time for Jacey to take a fresh look at her life. Could this string of unexpected events have been setting her up for something far better than what she had planned for herself?

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories by Celeste Fletcher McHale is an enchanting tale. Love is a powerful thing, if we leapt it into our lives. Jacey isn’t sure about love. Yet life has offered her the opportunity to take it. First, she must find courage in herself. Or else lose what could have been…

Celeste Fletcher McHale has combined fear, love, faith, and hope into a masterpiece. The outcome is phenomenal. I felt sadness, fear, and hope. The main character struggles each day and little by little she transforms into a braver woman. The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories is indeed a perfect read for all. Especially, women. Memories and feelings come out and it’s up to Jacey to decide what will come. Overall, I recommend this beautifully written novel to readers worldwide. 

Review: Faery Sight

Synopsis:

The realm of faery is breached and for the first time, Celeste comes face to face with a human. He strikes her as an extraordinary specimen and although they have yet to speak, her heart is racing. But Paloma, Celeste’s mother, is on her deathbed and before she breathes her last, the gruesome circumstances of Celeste’s birth are revealed, thus establishing the reasons why Celeste must leave the realm – her home. Grieving for her mother and dreading her inevitable entry into a world she knows is led by a woman bent on destroying her, Celeste yearns for one more glimpse of that handsome intruder.
Displeased with Celeste’s foolish longings, Nahia, Celeste’s birth sister, reminds her of a certain arrangement, also disclosed by Paloma, which means that when Celeste reenters the human world she views as contemptible, she will do so as the bride of a complete stranger.
Celeste has never been one to shirk or delay, but she won’t allow her romantic hopes to be dashed. She is compelled to fulfill the promise made to her dying mother, and she must satisfy Nahia, but above all, she must be free to give her heart to whomever she pleases.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Faery Sight by Patricia Bossano is one of the most fascinating YA reads, I’ve ever read. The book was deeply engaging from the start. I love it when novels suck me into their characters’ lives. Here, I met an interesting young lady, Celeste. She knows of the Faery world. A world must humans aren’t aware of…then her world turns crazy. Her mother tells her shocking things and now, it’s up to Celeste to choose her destiny. Rich, entertaining, and epic. This story has it a lot to offer. Righting wrongs, chasing down a sorceress, and returning back to a Faery world to claim the place as a rightful heir. Themes like loss, grief, love, and courage are found within the  novel. The charcaters both bad and good make this a must read. I felt like I was really there experiencing it all first hand. Well-told. Patricia Bossano has cleverly peaked my interest with her writing. I can’t wait to read more by her. Overall, I recommend Faery Sight to readers worldwide. 

Review: A Sky Full of Stars

Synopsis:

The stars are about to align in the newest Shaughnessy brothers romance!
WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE

Brilliant astrophysicist Dr. Owen Shaughnessy feels more connected to the cosmos than to people. He’s great with calculations, but when he leads a team of scientists to study a famous meteor shower, he doesn’t factor in his free-spirited artist assistant Brooke Matthews.
LOVE CAN DAZZLE YOU

Polar opposites in personality, the friction between them threatens to derail the project. But the beauty and mystery of the night sky draw Owen and Brooke together—and she’s going to surprise him in ways the stars never could.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

A Sky Full of Stars by Samantha Chase is another brilliant masterpiece. Once again, this talented writer, has brought me to tears. Her story is full of emeotions that pulled at my heart strings. Sad, hilarious, frustrated and loved. A book that made readers feel something is a book worth reading. A Sky Full of Stars has it all. 

Inside this latest novel, Samantha Chase features the brainiac brother. Dr. Own Shaughnessy. He’s hot, clever, and the sweetest man ever. But little by little, I got to view his bolder side. His personality is one that intrigued me. All his life, his family stood up for me. Telling him,,he’s normal. When everyone else said differently. As an adult a lot of that feeling of not being normal transferred over…making it harder for Dr. Owen to believe in himself. Yet, his family continued to tell him he’s perefect. I love the Shaughnessy family. Yes, they’re loud and different, but they’re loyal. They love each other. 

A Sky Full of Stars is about Dr. Owen finding the courage to believe that he’s perfect the way he is. That’s he’s normal. It’s a real struggle for the man whose so talented. Then, as the plot unfolds, his world gets shaken. Enter Brooke Matthews. A girl trained for beauty pageants. Together their lives will be rocky. As in the real world nothing comes easy…these two will cry, laugh, love, and fight. I enjoyed watching them grow. Also, themes of loss, love, and courage are found on every page. Overall, I highly recommend A Sky Full of Stars to all. 

Review: The Gay Preacher’s Wife

Synopsis:

The deeply personal memoir of Lydia Meredith, a woman who spent almost thirty years married to a preacher—only to have her husband leave her for a MAN —and how her life becomes a testimony of tolerance and a theology of love and acceptance.
After being married to Reverend Dennis A. Meredith for almost thirty years, Lydia Meredith discovers a shocking truth: the love of her life left her for a MAN. Now, Lydia opens up for the first time about how that revelation shattered her world—and strengthened her faith.
With her life turned upside down, Lydia struggled to put the pieces of her broken heart back together and that led her to pursue understanding through an accredited theological education. She wanted a way to put her family back together and she found Jesus’ ministry and teachings were “actually” about teaching tolerance and love for people who are labeled different.
Candid, honest, and incredibly touching, Lydia Meredith shows that faith and perseverance can get you through any challenge life throws your way.

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

The Gay Preacher’s Wife by Lydia Meredith is a deep memoir. Inside, I followed her journey as an African American women. Just being in that category is hard enough. Then, to add to the fact her husband had lied to her for the past 30-years. Well, it was easy to sympathize with her. I can only imagine how hard that was to deal with after finding out. Having a man lineage his wife for an reason is hard on the soul and heart. Lydia Meredith’s husband left her for another man. Wow. I wouldn’t know how to handle that scenario myself, if placed in the same situation. Her journey was emotional and interesting. I believe the writer dealt with the situation in the best ways possible. I can’t judge her nor her husband. Life is complicated, messy, and hear shattering. Readers can easily connect with Lydia as her words engage them further into her life. Overall, this personal memoir took great faith and courage to share. I recommend it to others. 

Review: The Ebb Tide

Synopsis:

A Heartwarming Tale of Courage and Love from Amish Fiction’s #1 Author

When a well-to-do family asks Sallie Riehl to be their daughter’s nanny for the summer at their Cape May, New Jersey, vacation home, she jumps at the chance to broaden her horizons beyond the Lancaster County Amish community where she grew up. Sallie has long dreamed of seeing more of the world, but her parents are reluctant for her to put off baptism yet another summer, and the timing is unfortunate for Perry Zook, who has renewed interest in courting her. 

Though she loves nannying, Sallie has free time on the weekends to enjoy the shore. It is there that she meets Kevin Kreider, a marine biology student who talks freely about all he’s learning and asks about her interests, unlike most of the guys she grew up with. Time with Kevin is invigorating, and Sallie realizes she’s never felt quite this alive around Perry. Then again, Kevin is Mennonite, not Amish. 

Sallie tries to brush aside her growing feelings for Kevin, but she fears what her parents would think about her new friendship. Just as concerning, however, is Sallie’s realization that her time in Cape May is increasing her desire to see the world, challenging her plans for the future. Has she been too hasty with her promises, or will Sallie only find what her heart is longing for back home in Paradise Township?

Rating: 5-stars

Review: 

The Ebb Tide by Beverly Lewis is a sweet Christian tale. A young Amish woman has had a heart for traveling the world in which God created. Her family wishes to see her baptized as an Amaish soon, but they start realizing it may not be what is good for their daughter. Sallie has a good Amish man back home who cares about her…yet her heart is constantly drifting back to Kevin. His family is Mennonite, not Amish. Sallie never once gives up trying to be a good Amish woman. She tries her best. But her heart is being pulled into another direction. Kevin and exploring the world. Beverly Lewis’s novel is heartfelt. The words carry a deep meaning and captivate me as I went through them. I felt sad and then happy for Sallie. Despite what our families want for us, we have to go find what it is that we want. Happiness is by falling our hearts. A deep and beautifully told story. The Ebb Tide is one that I recommend to readers worldwide. It’s relates to everything we all go through…each day. Finding ourselves. 

Review: Madame President

Synopsis:

The harrowing, but triumphant story of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, leader of the Liberian women’s movement, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, and the first democratically elected female president in African history.

When Ellen Johnson Sirleaf won the 2005 Liberian presidential election, she demolished a barrier few thought possible, obliterating centuries of patriarchal rule to become the first female elected head of state in Africa’s history. Madame President is the inspiring, often heartbreaking story of Sirleaf’s evolution from an ordinary Liberian mother of four boys to international banking executive, from a victim of domestic violence to a political icon, from a post-war president to a Nobel Peace Prize winner. 

Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and bestselling author Helene Cooper deftly weaves Sirleaf’s personal story into the larger narrative of the coming of age of Liberian women. The highs and lows of Sirleaf’s life are filled with indelible images; from imprisonment in a jail cell for standing up to Liberia’s military government to addressing the United States Congress, from reeling under the onslaught of the Ebola pandemic to signing a deal with Hillary Clinton when she was still Secretary of State that enshrined American support for Liberia’s future.
Sirleaf’s personality shines throughout this riveting biography. Ultimately, Madame President is the story of Liberia’s greatest daughter, and the universal lessons we can all learn from this “Oracle” of African women.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Madame President by Helene Cooper is an inspiring read. Women everywhere will be awed at the work done by one woman, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. She has gone beyond any other woman of her time in a country that mistreated women as objects. Here, I got to follow the brave and clever woman as she rose from just a mother to a president of a nation. Going to prison, suffering like every other woman has done…,yet she managed to rise dispite the hardships that fell upon her. I was amazed. She kept on going even when it might have meant the end for her. Writer, Helene Cooper, has brought Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s life alive on these pages for All to see. Just when I thought I have seen, heard, and know it all…this book brought out more than just a woman struggling to rise among men of her country. It’s a story of survival, courage, determination as well as breaking barriers. Overall, I recommend this nonfiction piece on one of the most compelling stories of a woman to readers everywhere.

Review: Finding Sarah

 

Synopsis:

Finding Sarah is an emotionally captivating story of love, life and everything in between.
With her house sold from under her, Sarah finds herself moving to a small cottage in the country in order to make ends meet but soon befriends, Maggie, the matriarch of Nutt Hill, a Texan and hopeless romantic.

But when Sarah meets a new man, her idyllic new life seems set to fracture.
Two very different souls searching for peace. One entire parish watching. In a small country village, nothing stays private for long…

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Finding Sarah by Wendy Lou Jones is a beautifully woven novel. The story opens readers’ hearts to more. Sure we all have had bad times and thought less of ourselves at certain points but that doesn’t mean we’re not worthy of love. Love, hope, and happiness are all themes found in this read. I was instantly moved and inspired by Wendy Lou Jones tale. Maybe there’s hope after all.

Divorced and rebuilding her own life, Sarah moves to a small-town. Her two boys companying her as well. Here, she manages to find a job and a new friend. Sarah soon finds herself deeply attracted to the young vicar. A man who has no trouble attracting the ladies. However, none have ever caught his attention until now…Sarah. Sarah is the kind of woman everyone likes. She always but herself last. But time is changing and she must learn to put herself first. Finding Sarah is both a good romance and a perfect read for women everywhere. I loved watching Sarah as she found the courage and the strength in finding herself and love. Fate does funny things. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to all.

 

Review: A Love Made New

Synopsis:

Abigail Schrock knows God can make all things new, but does that include her broken heart?

It seems as if everyone is falling in love in Birch Creek, including Abigail Schrock. But when heartbreak descends on her already fragile world, she can’t help but feel that if she’d only been a little prettier, she could be on her way down the aisle. To make matters worse, Abigail’s two sisters have found love, and all Abigail can seem to find is the chocolate she has stashed away in the pantry.

Asa Bontrager has never had trouble with the ladies in his Amish community—his good looks have always gotten him far. Which is why he’s baffled by the call he’s received from God to pursue Abigail, a woman who seems determined to turn him away.

Can Abigail find the peace and joy she so desperately desires? Will she allow herself to stop running and melt into the embrace of unforeseen comfort? If she does, she may discover a love powerful enough to restore her hope in a promising future.

Rating: 5 stars
Review:

A Love Made New by Kathleen Fuller is an extraordinary novel. This story is full of wisdom, patience, and love. The emotional journeys were so strong it was hard not to be sucked into them. The characters were beyond believable. Once again, I found myself drawn into Kathleen Fuller’s writing. Her talent is evident on every page. The drama is clear and concise, maybe not to the characters but to the readers. I loved watching the characters grow up and to overcome their hurdles. One main character had her parents lost due to a fatal buggy accident. Then she returns home only to have her boyfriend tell her they’re not an item anymore and then there’s the loud whisper she overheard. Ladies were saying she was fat. All of that can diminish one’s self-esteem and courage. Until fate takes the rug under her feet and brings an unexpected blessing into her life. Then smiles break out but may or may not last. The issues are strong enough to leave readers wondering what will become of the characters. I was intrigued from beginning to end. Clean, well-written, realistic and heartwarming. Readers won’t be able to find another masterpiece like Kathleen Fuller’s, A Love Made New. An Amish romance that will keep readers laughing, crying, and turning those pages. I have fallen in love with this fictional world and the characters it presented to me. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to readers worldwide. 

Review: A Tragic Kind of Wonderful

 

Synopsis:

For sixteen-year-old Mel Hannigan, bipolar disorder makes life unpredictable. Her latest struggle is balancing her growing feelings in a new relationship with her instinct to keep everyone at arm’s length. And when a former friend confronts Mel with the truth about the way their relationship ended, deeply buried secrets threaten to come out and upend her shaky equilibrium.

As the walls of Mel’s compartmentalized world crumble, she fears the worst–that her friends will abandon her if they learn the truth about what she’s been hiding. Can Mel bring herself to risk everything to find out?

In A Tragic Kind of Wonderful, Eric Lindstrom, author of the critically acclaimed Not If I See You First, examines the fear that keeps us from exposing our true selves, and the courage it takes to be loved for who we really are.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

A Tragic Kind of Wonderful is one of the best YA tales that I have read. Here, readers will meet a deeply flawed character who has one heck of a journey to find herself. Courage, love, and friendships are easier said than done. When one has a mental disorder such as being bipolar, that brings a lot of insecurity to a teenage girl. Teens go through enough stress and inner turmoil without adding to it. But this, new flaw, will be the disaster or the realization she doesn’t have to be alone anymore. It’s tough keeping people out of one’s circle. Especially, when that said character wants to be around them. Friends can come and go. Who’s to say they will stay if they find out Mel’s deep secret? Then there’s that good guy that every teenage girl wants in her life…David. David is another great character. He struggles with the fact his grandma is being taken care of by others. It puts him in an awkward situation. But his grandma is okay and the girl helping his grandma fascinates him more than anything. But as with all good things, there’s always the deep dark side to that must come with it. Eric Lindstrom takes readers deep into his character’s mind and heart. Feeling and hearing everything through Mel’s eyes. I loved getting to know her and to watch her grow. Facing her struggles is tough but I kept my hopes up…Overall, A Tragic Kind of Wonderful is exactly that. Tragic but wonderful too. I highly recommend this YA story to all.

Review: Good in Bed

 

Synopsis:

For twenty-eight years, things have been tripping along nicely for Cannie Shapiro. Sure, her mother has come charging out of the closet, and her father has long since dropped out of her world. But she loves her friends, her rat terrier, Nifkin, and her job as pop culture reporter for The Philadelphia Examiner. She’s even made a tenuous peace with her plus-size body.

But the day she opens up a national women’s magazine and sees the words “Loving a Larger Woman” above her ex-boyfriend’s byline, Cannie is plunged into misery…and the most amazing year of her life. From Philadelphia to Hollywood and back home again, she charts a new course for herself: mourning her losses, facing her past, and figuring out who she is and who she can become.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Jennifer Weiner has a way with creating just the right atmosphere that will hook and captivate her readers. I found myself relating to the main character’s flaws especially regarding her issues with weight. I still struggle with that part and after reading this novel, it was like a reminder saying, “Love yourself. If you love yourself so will others.” The emotional journey was deep and left me really thinking about stuff. The story itself was hilarious, sad, and frustrating at times. Afterall, the woman was going through relationship issues and then having gone through pregnancy without the baby’s father around to support her. Truly a realistic outlook on life, love, and relationships. I could easily see the characters acting and saying the things that I read about…I felt inspired by the main character. At first she was insecure of herself, and it took her a great time to realize that she was okay just the way and who she has been all those years. Sweet, well-developed, and brilliant. Good in Bed is a definite read for all.

Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner was the first novel that launched her amazing career. After reading it, I could see why. It has everything. Humor, emotional journey, and a believable character. Here, I have met an editor. One that found out from her best friend that her ex-boyfriend wrote an embarrassing article about that millions of readers read. She then did what any sane angered woman would do. Yell at the stupid freaking ex-boyfriend. The thing was she told him she wanted a break. He took that as a ‘I’m breaking up with you’…and so, he wrote about their sex life. Oh wait…he also, called her fat. Not just fat, but fatter than him. Yep. Just like that the main character went from bat angry to depressed rather quickly. But her life just got crazier…her mom has a sprung an enormous surprise on her daughter. Not just anywhere but told her daughter while at the office. Last, of all, the main character found out that she’s pregnant with her ex boyfriend’s baby. The novel kept getting more intense with every page turned. I absolutely loved reading it. I highly recommend all women to read this laugh-out-loud romance.

 

 

Review: Find Me In Heaven

 

Synopsis:

Violet is a shy, introverted woman who hides behind her red hair and freckles. Xander is a strong, driven businessman who has no desire for romance. Living at opposite ends of the country, there isn’t any chance the two will meet. Little do they know, they have guardian angels who are determined to get them together as the soulmates they are.

Guided by their angels into finding each other online, they begin a whirlwind courtship in cyberspace, however, tragedy strikes when the lovers meet in person and both are killed in a horrible accident.

But what appears to be the end is just the beginning, for in Heaven they are separated and faced with obstacles not even their guardians can out-maneuver. If Xander can keep his promise to find Violet, they might stand a chance at a Happily Eternal After.

Follow this courageous, awe-inspiring love story that spans not only the digital world but the entire universe, and discover why the end is not truly the end. It is a beginning.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Find Me In Heaven by Kris Johnston is a heart melting read. The writer’s superb talent in creating this masterpiece is beyond amazing. A phenomenal romance tale unlike any other. Find Me In Heaven is about two soul mates connecting with the help of their angels. But once they meet, fate takes them apart and their struggles to find each other again, will be tough but not impossible. Love is everlasting. Inside this beautifully woven yet inspirational story, we see that love  can break all barriers even in death it can last forever. True love doesn’t break. The love found and created by the two main characters is something that will sweep readers up into Heaven. Emotionally the best novel I have read in a while. Once this book is opened, readers will forever be changed. Beware it will suck readers inside faster than they can blink…charming, engaging, and highly entertaining. Overall, I highly recommend this title to readers everywhere.

 

Review: You Know Me Well

 

Synopsis:

Who knows you well? Your best friend? Your boyfriend or girlfriend? A stranger you meet on a crazy night? No one, really?

Mark and Kate have sat next to each other for an entire year but have never spoken. For whatever reason, their paths outside of class have never crossed.

That is until Kate spots Mark miles away from home, out in the city for a wild, unexpected night. Kate is lost, having just run away from a chance to finally meet the girl she has been in love with from afar. Mark, meanwhile, is in love with his best friend Ryan, who may or may not feel the same way.

When Kate and Mark meet up, little do they know how important they will become to each other — and how, in a very short time, they will know each other better than any of the people who are supposed to know them more.

Rating:  4 stars

Review:

You Know Me Well by both Nina LaCour and David Levithan is a great read. I thought it was wonderful that they portrayed two opposites sexes, each dealing with feelings towards their same-sex. Here, I experienced what struggles both internally and externally teens face when in love with the gender. Different, new, and a deeper understanding develops after reading this novel. However, I wanted to feel a connection with the characters…one the would stay with me even after I finished reading the story. That didn’t happen for me in this tale.

Inside this engaging title, You Know Me Well, readers get to meet two friends. One is a guy and the other is a girl. Both are dealing with their relationships that nobody but them know about…Kate is in love with another girl and Mark loves his another guy. Each friend is there supporting the other one to go after the one they love. Nina LaCour and David Levithan have crafted a realistic, honest, and gritty tale. One that readers will definitely enjoy time and time again. The main theme that stuck out with me was being true to one’s self and taking the risk of going after what makes one happy. Overall, this was a fun read and I recommend it to others.

Review: A Transcendental Yogi Life (With Eternal Stories)

 

Synopsis:

Spiritualism is one of the greatest mysteries in life. But what does it even mean, How do we access it? What power does it hold? What is your purpose on earth? What is God like?Who is a yogi?

With A Transcendental Yogi Life, With Eternal Stories, you delve deep into the life of Yogi’s through short & legendary stories that have left an impact on us which would ripple throughout years to come. Through this book, you would experience if the transcendental life of these Yogi’s can answer the serious questions of life that plague us all.

With insights guided by enlightened souls like Gautama Buddha, Shri Paramahamsa Yogananda, Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Shri Ramana Maharishi, Swami Vivekanand & others, you will try and identify how they grew and overcome their day-to-day problems that we too face regularly. Their wisdom will allow you to reach new heights and bring you to a place you never before imagined.

This simple yet highly philosophical book aims to allow everyone—from every phase of life, every age group, and every nationality—to easily understand the beautiful & the peaceful teaching of our great Yogi’s. I am sure this book won’t be perfect, but it will always remain a guiding factor you can return to time and time again.

If read carefully and with an open mind, this book will change your life for the better.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Review:

A Transcendental Yogi Life: With Eternal Stories by Sumit Singh is an interesting book. The writer has put a lot of thought and effort into making this book the best for readers worldwide. I enjoyed reading pages. There are day-to-day issues that pop up regularly in my life. I take on that stress as a normal. When I look at others’ lives that I know, I see the differences. There’s wisdom passed on as readers progress further into the book. I think this is a great guide built for all people. No guide is perfect. However, this one provides the enlightenment, strength, courage, as well as guidance in making past life’s obstacles. Burdens, emotions, and outside environments can have our shoulders feeling heavy. But this read makes the heaviness feel lighter and in a way we feel more energized. A Transcendental  Yogi Life: With Eternal Stories by Sumit Singh is indeed a great read for all. I recommend it to readers everywhere.

 

Review: Kitty Hawk and The Curse of the Yukon Gold

 

Synopsis:

Kitty Hawk and the Curse of the Yukon Gold is the thrilling first installment in a new series of adventure mystery stories that are one part travel, one part history and five parts adventure. This first book of the Kitty Hawk Flying Detective Agency Series introduces Kitty Hawk, an intrepid teenage pilot with her own De Havilland Beaver seaplane and a nose for mystery and intrigue. A cross between Amelia Earhart, Nancy Drew and Pippi Longstocking, Kitty is a quirky young heroine with boundless curiosity and a knack for getting herself into all kinds of precarious situations.

After leaving her home in the western Canadian fishing village of Tofino to spend the summer in Alaska studying humpback whales Kitty finds herself caught up in an unforgettable adventure involving stolen gold, devious criminals, ghostly shipwrecks, and bone-chilling curses. Kitty’s adventure begins with the lingering mystery of a sunken ship called the Clara Nevada and as the plot continues to unfold this spirited story will have armchair explorers and amateur detectives alike anxiously following every twist and turn as they are swept along through the history of the Klondike Gold Rush to a suspenseful final climactic chase across the rugged terrain of Canada’s Yukon, the harsh land made famous in the stories and poems of such writers as Jack London, Robert Service, and Pierre Berton. It is a riveting tale that brings to glorious life the landscape and history of Alaska’s inside passage and Canada’s Yukon, as Kitty is caught up in an epic mystery set against the backdrop of the scenery of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Kitty Hawk and the Curse of the Yukon Gold is a perfect book to fire the imagination of readers of all ages. Filled with fascinating and highly Google-able locations and history this book will inspire anyone to learn and experience more for themselves as Kitty prepares for her next adventure – flying around the world!

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Kitty Hawk and The Curse of the Yukon Gold by Ian Reading is fun, exciting, and full of adventure. This novel is highly engaging from the first moment to the last. There’s never a dull moment with the main character, Kitty Hawk. Right away she’s experiencing trouble. Flying a plane…can be scary especially when it runs out of fuel. Imagine being up high in the air…your fuel tank empty when it says it still has fuel. Then your radio is fried….and you’re trying not to panic. Ian Reading inserts a lot of mystery, intrigue and humor into this tale. Kitty Hawk is someone I would not want to travel with for it seems she is always having the case of bad luck. Not only is the novel highly entertaining but also, like a travel and historical guide. Exploring, surviving, and theft of gold will keep readers on the edge of their seats filled with anticipation of what’s happening next. This was the first novel I have read by Ian Reading and love it. I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the last page. Overall, this is one fictional world I highly recommend to readers worldwide.

 

Review: Leaving Independence

 

Synopsis:

Abigail Baldwyn might not be a widow after all…

Ever since she received word that her husband, Robert, was killed in the Civil War, Abigail has struggled to keep her Tennessee home and family together. Then a letter arrives claiming that Robert isn’t dead, yet he has no plans to return. Desperate for answers, Abigail travels to Independence, Missouri, where she joins a westbound wagon train to find him.

Leading a company along the Oregon Trail isn’t part of Hoke Mathews’s plans. But then the former cavalry scout gets a glimpse of Abigail—so elegant compared to the rest of their hardscrabble wagon community, yet spirited and resilient. Through every peril, they encounter—snakebites, Indian raids, fevers, dangerous grudges—his bond with Abigail grows.

Abigail knew this journey would test her courage. Now it’s testing her marriage vows and her heart, daring her to claim a future on her own terms in a land rich with promise.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Leaving Independence by Leanne W. Smith is well-written. Immediately, I was swept up into the story. The intrigue of a man thought to be dead but then told was alive…takes readers on a journey following a brave mother going to find her husband. She and her children look for answers. Answers are exactly what they get. But whether they are the ones they wanted is left to discover. Then, there’s more to the mystery…as well as a sweet surprise. A  brave hardworking man for the wagon train finds himself constantly coming to the woman’s aid. Something between them brews up…and only time will tell if they can find happiness again.

Leanne W. Smith brought a realistic western travel tale that readers everywhere will love. Family, faith, and courage are tested inside this novel. The character’s hardships were believable. The dangers ahead were three dimensional. I enjoyed following a family as they moved forward…the Oregon Trail. Things like the Civil War were masterfully woven for readers’ entertainment. Overall, I highly recommend this sweet historical piece to all. Leaving Independence is definitely a must read.

 

 

Review: Gullali of Panjshir Valley

 

Synopsis:

A POWERFUL TALE OF ADVENTURE, ROMANCE, AND ONE WOMAN’S FIGHT AGAINST GENDER BIAS IN THE NAME OF CULTURE AND RELIGION.

Panjshir Valley, eleven thousand feet above sea level north of Kabul–Afghanistan, is heaven on Earth. Gullali, an educated young Afghan woman, was raised by her liberal-minded family to believe women deserve the same rights as men, a belief that is vehemently condemned by Talibanised Afghanistan. With romance in her life, Gullali’s life is perfect until Afghanistan is invaded by the Soviet army on December 24, 1979, and her life changes overnight.

After ten years of occupation, the Soviets leave in defeat. Though a triumph, the tribes fight among themselves over women and pretty boys. Power turns to greed, and order in Afghanistan fades. Amid the turmoil, the Taliban gain control, over the country, and women are the first casualty in the name of Islam.

Rumors of a more tolerant Pakistan beckon Gullali and her husband, but tragedy strikes. Gullali comes to realize the Taliban is just as prevalent in Pakistan. Captive, she suffers both physically and mentally from gender bias and religious hypocrisy.

Fueled by the abuse, Gullali is determined to fight for women’s rights, education, and freedom from male abuse in the name of Muslim culture and religion. Using her story, she tries to create awareness among the women of Pakistan but faces death threats from the clerics. She fights back. What follows is a roller coaster ride of fights for women’s liberation and adventure, with passionate romance in between.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Gullali of Panjshir Valley by Zia Rehman is an interesting read. It brings to light the struggles of the people of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Women especially are brought into a chaos all because of the of Islam religion and men’s ideas of women. Women are treated as unequal. No education, as well as no rights, are given. This novel brings to life the struggles that women faced under the Islamic men’s rule. The danger was something that lied ahead for women as men didn’t take to them going to school lightly. The men wanted to be in charge. There seemed to be historical events planted within this fiction tale. Like the many different invaders to these countries and what happened each time. Every take over had an influence on the countries that these women lived within…I found myself curious as I read every page. The leading female character’s life went from good to horrifying fast. Her country was one that she wanted to leave. But the next one was just as bad as her own. Love, fate, and determination helped Gullali fight for survival. Her story is a journey many don’t want to miss.  War, terror, and abuse…and one one woman’s courage are themes that will entice readers to this brilliant piece. Overall, I recommend Gullali of Panjshir Valley to readers everywhere.

Review: A Hero of France

 

Synopsis:

From the bestselling master espionage writer, hailed by Vince Flynn as “the best in the business,” comes a riveting novel about the French Resistance in Nazi-occupied Paris.

1941. The City of Light is dark and silent at night. But in Paris and in the farmhouses, barns, and churches of the French countryside, small groups of ordinary men and women are determined to take down the occupying forces of Adolf Hitler. Mathieu, a leader of the French Resistance, leads one such cell, helping downed British airmen escape back to England.

Alan Furst’s suspenseful, fast-paced thriller captures this dangerous time as no one ever has before. He brings Paris and occupied France, to life, along with courageous citizens who outmaneuver collaborators, informers, blackmailers, and spies, risking everything to fulfill perilous clandestine missions. Aiding, Mathieu as part of his covert network are Lisette, a seventeen-year-old student, and courier; Max de Lyon, an arms dealer turned nightclub owner; Chantal, a woman of class and confidence; Daniel, a Jewish teacher fueled by revenge; Joëlle, who falls in love with Mathieu; and Annemarie, a willful aristocrat with deep roots in France, and a desire to act.

As the German military police heighten surveillance, Mathieu and his team face a new threat, dispatched by the Reich to destroy them all.

Shot through with the author’s trademark fine writing, breathtaking suspense, and intense scenes of seduction and passion, Alan Furst’s A Hero of France is at once one of the finest novels written about the French Resistance and the most gripping novel yet by the living master of the spy thriller.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Wow…immediately this powerful novel intrigues readers’ senses with fear, courage, and revenge. Alan Furst knows exactly what his readers expect and what they will want to read. His talent is found on every page of this fast-paced thriller. I loved how Alan Furst created a masterpiece surrounding the events of World War II. History fans will definitely enjoy reading this spy novel. As with all wars…the stakes are much higher in this war than any other. One of the world’s most evil dictators is behind all the murders, chaos, and fear that spreads like wildfire through France and the rest of Europe. A Hero of France brings to life one of the most popular historical moments of all time…World War II. Hitler is rising…and many brave souls are determined to bring down the Nazi leader. But it will be more than just going for justice…it’s revenge.  The sacrifices that will tear at readers’ hearts.

A Hero of France is about a man who leads a group of people in a resistance against the Nazis and to bring down Adolf Hitler. Going after this goal will prove difficult since they are all under surveillance. Members are separated and taken and it will take everything they have to come out of it all alive. The suspense builds as readers turn the pages. Every moment could be the destruction of them all. Amazing how one man was capable of changing his appearance so much that no one could recognize him at all. It made the Nazis search for him rather hard. Then there’s the romance…or true love between Joelle and Mathieu, the leader of the rebel group. He promises to come back to her and their home…but he must continue on his journey of getting out alive.  Danger…the threat of death is strong enough to keep readers guessing what will happen to or what happened to the some of the members. Some disappeared so well…that there are only rumors of what may have happened to them. The ending was brilliant…I enjoyed reading this historical thriller, and I highly recommend it to readers worldwide.

 

 

 

 

Review: Midnight in Berlin

 

Synopsis:

Berlin in the spring of 1939. Hitler is preparing for war. Colonel Noel Macrae, a British diplomat, plans the ultimate sacrifice to stop him. The West’s appeasement policies have failed. There is only one alternative: assassination. The Gestapo, aware of Macrae’s hostility, seeks to compromise him in their infamous brothel. There Macrae meets and falls in love with Sara, a Jewish woman blackmailed into becoming a Nazi courtesan.

Macrae finds himself trapped between the blind policies of his government and the dark world of betrayal and deception in Berlin. As he seeks to save the woman he loves from the brutality of the Gestapo, he defies his government and plans direct action to avert what he knows will be a global war.

Inspired by true events and characters, James MacManus’s Midnight in Berlin is a passionate story that will leave you in awe of the human capacity for courage, sacrifice, and love set against the world on the brink of war.

Rating:

Review:

Midnight in Berlin by James MacManus is an incredible telling of when Hilter came to power. I am a huge history fan and love anything that features world war two. This is a moment in history that comes as a nightmare to all and still in the present seems to haunt us. James MacManus brings to life history and its events of this cruel time period. The way people lived their lives, how they socialized and the war developing at hand…popped up, as a three-dimensional stage where readers can witness everything first hand. Midnight in Berlin is a fascinating novel that immediately swoops reader into the horrifying journey that is just building up in Germany. Nazis, the Gestapo, and a thrilling romance are brilliantly wrapped inside this fictional masterpiece.

James MacManus’s historical novel…is truly a powerful tale that swallows one up, whole. Here there is a British officer and a Jewish woman who meet by fate and fall in love. She is posing as a Nazi courtesan. But not because she wants to…but because she’s forced to accept. A romance develops and war trudges on…danger, suspense, intrigue…kept me turning the pages faster. It’s was like reliving the terrible times all over again. Macrea plans to stop Hitler himself. But whether he does or not is something readers must figure out on their own. I found myself highly entertained and deeply engaged at the battles being bought. I wanted to survive…Politics, murder, corruption, courage, and sacrifice were tied into this magnificent title. The talent is superb. I can definitely see this novel being on the big screens everywhere. The famous names of Hitler’s men are brought to life within this read. Amazing how history can scoop us up and take us back in time. Overall, I highly recommend Midnight in Berlin to readers everywhere.

 

 

Review: Fever at Dawn

 

Synopsis:

In this improbably joyous novel about two recovering concentration camp survivors, love is the best medicine.

July 1945. Miklos is a twenty-five-year-old Hungarian who has survived the camps and has been brought to Sweden to convalesce. His doctor has just given him a death sentence — his lungs are filled with fluid and in six months he will be gone. But Miklos has other plans. He didn’t survive the war only to drown from within, and so he wages war on his own fate. He acquires the names of the 117 Hungarian women also recovering in Sweden, and he writes a letter to each of them in his beautiful cursive hand. One of these women, he is sure, will become his wife.

In another part of the country, Lili reads his letter and decides to write back. For the next few months, the two engage in a funny, absurd, hopeful epistolary dance. Eventually, they find a way to meet.

Based on the true story of Péter Gárdos’s parents, and drawn from their letters,Fever at Dawn is a vibrant, ribald, and unforgettable tale, showing the death-defying power of the human will to live and to love.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Fever at Dawn by Peter Gardos is by far the greatest read. I love reading anything that features about the Holocaust and the victims during this time period. A moment in history that will never be forgotten by all. The deaths still linger onto the souls that have survived and onto those who have never experienced the fear or danger of the Holocaust. Here, Peter Gardos has brilliantly brought a true story of his parents’ journey and turned it into one memorable fiction piece. It shows how strong the victims are even after the horror has stopped. But we shall find that after going through an unthinkable horror that victims who have survived can go on and maybe find some happiness. But as with all life, fate has other plans. This brilliant novel made me laugh, cry, and root for the victims and their inspirational strength during times of hardness, cruelty, and death.

Fever at Dawn is a novel that hits home immediately due to what lay on its page within…a man who has survived the Holocaust finds that he is dying. But instead of letting death win and take what little time he has left, he finds strength to find love before it’s too late. Miklos has lungs that are collapsing on him. Yet, he wants to find a woman that will marry him before he leaves the world. He decides to write to women who are also recovering and hopes with a something so fierce that it leaves readers with awe…he wants to find love. One woman does find Miklos letters to be magical. She is soon in love with the man who has written her a letter and soon they meet. Miklos and Lili plan on marriage…and maybe this strong man of hers might just live long enough for them to have a peaceful happy marriage…Love, courage, and bravery are strong themes within this riveting tale. I loved reading this book. Peter Gardos has brought his parents’ story to life and left me feeling inspired by it. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to readers worldwide.

Review: The Great Leap

 

Synopsis:

Mundu, an indigenous teenager from the Brazilian rainforest, is the best long jumper in the world-only no one knows it. That is, until idealistic botanist and power company scout Luis Moraes sees Mundu effortlessly launch himself across a wide stream. Luis convinces the power company to let him take Mundu to Rio de Janeiro to share his great gift with the world. But first Luis must gain the trust of Mundu’s mentor, the shaman of his village, who agrees to Luis’ plan without revealing that Mundu was marked at birth by Iara, goddess of the inland waters. Mundu quickly proves himself and becomes Brazil’s best hope for track and field gold at the summer Olympics coming to Rio in 2016. The power company hires Mundu as its corporate symbol, and together with Brazil’s Olympic organizers, they try to exploit Mundu’s popularity to gain support for the Olympics among Rio’s poor, who resent the excessive costs of hosting the Games while they suffer unreliable public transportation, inferior schools, and inadequate health care. But everyone’s plans for Mundu, including his own, are turned upside down when shortly before the Olympics begin, it leaks out that the power company plans to build the giant hydroelectric dam that will flood Mundu’s village. With the help of his friends and the timely intervention of the goddess, Mundu must carry out a daring plan to bring the plight of his people to the attention of the whole world.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

The Great Leap by Jeff Sher is definitely a phenomenal read. This inspiring yet fantasy brings real life issues that exist in within the real world and conveys an entertaining way to educate people about them. A young boy has the power to help his people. What starts to be an exciting new chapter for him soon turns into a heart racing and edge of your seat thrill ride to save a village. There are companies all over that take advantage of people and this novel brilliantly shows us all just that. It also proves that anything can happen if everyone works together. The work of one boy courageous enough to stand up for his nation and fulfill his dreams at the Olympics. The world’s greatest jumper uses the media to broadcast what’s happening. I immediately felt taken with this beautiful story and loved reading it. This is one stunning piece that readers everywhere won’t forget. The impact from the talented writer, Jeff Sher, molds itself to one’s heart, mind, and soul. Overall, I highly recommend The Great Leap to readers worldwide.

Review: Harlem Heroine

 

Synopsis:

Tonia Taylor’s life changed forever on the night that her friend and brother
Jermaine “Baby Jay” was murdered. But Jermaine was actually the last of a
long line of real, smart, and handsome street dudes she encountered growing
up in Harlem. In the early 80’s she became intrigued by the fast life despite growing up in a strict and disciplined household. That curiosity eventually led her, to becoming, one of the popular girls in Harlem who obtained luxury cars, money, diamonds, and furs. In this tell-all memoir, she takes us on a journey back to her life on the streets of Harlem, a journey that intertwines the stories of many Street legends.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Harlem Heroine by Ms. Tee is a deep memoir that sends readers on a journey into what a street life was really about and like for many. Heartbreaking and courageous tale in sharing the past of hurt, pain, regret, and the violence that came with it all. It was enchanting to read about the bad life and what comes with it from someone who has gone through each stage of that particular lifestyle. We all make choices. Sometimes for the best and sometimes for the worst. The drama felt like I was there actually experiencing first-hand.The events take place in Harlem around the 80’s and 90’s time era. It was quite an interesting and educational experience. The fact that this was real and not one’s everyday urban fiction novel, made the connection to the story being told that much more important. Ms. Tee is a talented writer and whose story will stick forever in the minds of every reader. One has to be a strong person inside and out to survive the street life or else risking it swallowing one whole. Overall, I recommend this novel to readers everywhere.

Review: Shunned No More

 

 

Synopsis:

A Lady Shunned by All…

Lady Viola Oberbrook only wanted to forget the ill-fated early morning duel that took the lives of two young, wealthy, promising men of the ton and sent her fleeing for her father’s country estate. Eight years later, she has her life in order: a fulfilling business, a few trusted friends, and no plans to return to London society. What she doesn’t expect is to come face to face with her past.

A Lord Betrayed by One…

Brock Spencer, Earl of Haversham, only wants vengeance. Recently returned from his military service to the King, his plans include repairing his family estate, finding a bride, and destroying the girl responsible for the untimely death of his twin brothers. What he doesn’t anticipate is falling in love with the only woman who should never be part of his future.

An Impossible Match, Destined to Be…

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Shunned No More by Christina McKnight is a historical romance that swept me away. I loved following the main characters, both Lady Viola, and Earl Brock. These two have a shared tragedy from the past that continues to haunt them both. However, for Lady Viola, the past wrong was her doing…and the guilt of it still keeps her shunned away from London’s society…until her business in the country is ruined by a trusted friend. Then, there’s her father’s insistence that she goes back to London to find herself a husband. But Lady Viola isn’t ready to be put out in the open by an unwelcoming society. But her father won’t let it go. For Earl Brock, the event of both his twin brothers’ deaths has caused him feeling lonely after returning back home. His father died before Brok got to say goodbye. With London’s gossip column, it’s hard to let go of the family tragedy…until fate has spun him and Lady Viola aka the culprit of the trouble together. What happens next kept me turning the pages eager to read it all. Christina McKnight has masterfully brought out a tale that is heartbreaking, swoon-worthy, intriguing, and heart melting in the end. I couldn’t pass up on this fabulous read…the talent shines brightly on every page as the characters dilemma, worries, and struggles became my own. The heat and sparks that transpired between the main characters are stunning. I fell in love with Shunned No More. Overall, I highly recommend this new title to readers everywhere

 

 

Review: Someone Like You

 

Synopsis:

Single mom Julia Dare has a lot on her plate. A brand new Christian, she’s busy trying to run her own business, spend time with her widowed mother, and raise her young son, Max, despite his father’s less-than-ideal influence on him. When a big account from her event-planning business sends her to the Caliente Springs resort, she’s shocked to come face-to-face with Zeke Monroe, the resort’s general manager, and her college sweetheart.

With his faith in tatters, Zeke Monroe is determined to keep the historic Caliente Springs resort running despite financial difficulties. But when Julia walks back into his life, he can’t ignore the feelings she stirs up. As they work together on an important client’s dream wedding, the fate of the resort soon depends on their success. When Zeke and Julia are pushed to their limits both personally and professionally, will their history put up walls between them or bring them together?

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Someone Like You by Victoria Bylin is an extraordinary novel that had me laughing and falling in love. The characters had their own life struggles like a single mom with a kid battling the kids father on everything…and then there’s the guilt of never telling the guy that was super nice to her about the night a long time ago…felt like she betrayed the amazing man, Zeke. Then, there is Zeke. He’s a preacher’s kid but since his parents’ death and his business degree, he became a manager for a resort. A beautiful old resort that is fastly falling apart and needing major repairs as well as a flood of guests to keep it afloat.  But that’s not all…there’s this super bad ass goat that eats everything and attacks people like Zeke’s woman crush whom he still has deep feelings for…but it’s up to fate if they’re paths will entwine. As for the romance that blooms and the state of the resort, Victoria Bylin brings humor, adventure, and good clean romance that I absolutely loved. Someone Like You definitely fits in perfectly with this well-written plot and the characters lured me in instantly. Overall, I highly recommend this beautiful heart melting story to readers everywhere.

 

 

 

Review: Guardian of Paradise

 

Synopsis:

In 1888, Kira Wall, surviving daughter of missionaries swept away in a tsunami, lives a primitive, but enjoyable life with natives on an isolated island in the South Pacific. But her serene world is turned upside down when an Australian merchant ship, commanded by the sinister Captain Darcy Coleman, arrives with an overabundance of modern and lavish goods. Kira suspects ill intent. Chief Ariki refuses to listen to Kira’s warning, forcing her to uncover the real plan of the captain on her own. Unfortunately, she has a distraction. A six-foot tall, blond, and handsome distraction. Trevor Marshall, doctor, and botanist, hopes to find exotic plants on the island to research new cures and medicines. He is dedicated to science, but when meeting the strong-willed, beautiful Kira Wall, he’d prefer to spend time researching her—all night.

The captain thwarts Kira’s attempts to call him out at every step, turning the village chief against her. With only Trevor and her best friend Malana, by her side, she stalks the captain and his officers through the dense, predator-infested jungle, toward the island’s inactive volcano. Frustrated by her failure to reveal the captain’s true intentions, Kira begins to think maybe she’s wrong about everything. Then an explosion and earthquake bigger than anyone on the island has ever seen renews her resolve. Was the blast natural or man-made? She is determined to prove it was the captain’s doing. Kira races against time and the island people’s naivety to stop the captain from destroying her home and killing everyone she loves.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Guardian of Paradise by W.E. Lawerence is an exotic tale that sweeps readers away into its plot. Action, intrigue, mystery and even romance are all portrayed inside this exciting story. Nature or human…a disaster truly caused by nature has led a woman to live with an island’s native people. All is well until new arrivers come and stir everything up…trust that was once given is now up in the air and those whom should not be trusted are…to find the truth readers will be led, in a race, for evidence, to prove what is most feared by one woman, Kira Wall. Kira finds a great distraction in the human form of a hot sexy and smart man. Trevor Marshall is a scientist. He is looking for cures until he finds Kira and then his only thoughts are of her. Can these two and Kira’s one remaining island friend, Malana, find the answers they need before everything they know and love is destroyed.

W.E. Lawerence is a talented writer whose words leads readers deep into a jungle of secrets, danger, and surprises. Three people out risking their lives to find what they need to prove that the new arrivers are behind destroying their only home and lives. But it’s hard when the new arrivers are good at convincing the chief of the native people to trust them over the three friends. So many times has Kira Wall looked like a fool, now, determined more than before, she will prove that she’s right about the newcomers. I loved following the misunderstandings, the sparks, and the fear of the characters. They made the scenes vivid and real. Guardian of Paradise is definitely one novel readers don’t want to miss. There is everything inside this read, to lure, readers to its pages and keep them lured on the last page. Overall, I highly recommend this adventure novel to readers everywhere.

Review: Meadow Creek

 

Synopsis:

Sloan Bradshaw is a sassy but classy business woman of a multi-billion dollar company but has been unable to depend on anyone all her life. Losing her husband in Iraq wasn’t foreseen but like always she forged on. However, this time, she wasn’t the only one left behind. Her seven-year-old son Oliver has tender emotions and her desire to protect him leads to a very unwise lie. That his father is still alive. Wanting to tell Oliver the truth; she searches for the best environment to do so. Since her husband left behind land in his home state of Oklahoma she makes the big move from N.Y.C. to his property, Meadow Creek Farms. It’s even conveniently closer to her wonderful in-laws. What Sloan doesn’t count on is the sarcastic, somewhat bitter and good-looking farmhand that has but one single motive. To run her off the land. Joseph Two Blood is interested in Meadow Creek for two reasons; his tribal ancestors once had a village running along the creek and he has hopes to use it for the local youth. Sloan’s move ruins that and her irritating way of handling all the challenges are making him doubt his reasons. As he bonds with her son and learns more about why she is so guarded yet strong he finds himself falling for this unconventional city girl.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Meadow Creek by Nicole Strycharz is the indeed a must read romance for all. Once again, Nicole Strycharz has delivered a powerful tale that will sweep readers off their feet and onto a journey of discovery. This brilliantly well-written tale consists of death, loss, of a loved one, and the strength to move forward. Courage, hope, and love are also many of the themes we see in Meadow Creek.

Inside this sweet, beautiful, and intriguing read, readers are introduced to a strong independent woman who has lost her husband like many other wives have and struggles to deal with her son’s revelation that his father is gone. Not knowing how to deal with delivering the news, Sloan has decided to move her and her son back to where land has been left by her husband. It’s there where the matter of the heart lies… both her son and a farmhand have her head spinning and her heart tangled up in knots. Being a confident man especially one with a purpose, Joseph will go after Sloan with all he has…but what fate has in store for these three will pull, tug, and captivate readers’ hearts. I loved reading Meadow Creek. Just like all of her previous novels, Nicole Strycharz is a master at hooking her readers until the last page and creating unforgettable characters. Readers beware, this is a superb novel that will be just as addictive as sweets are tempting…Overall, I highly recommend Meadow Creek to readers everywhere.

 

Review: The Cavendon Luck

 

Synopsis:

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author comes a captivating epic saga of courage and honor, following the aristocratic Inghams and the loyal Swann family who have served them for centuries.

It is 1938 in England, and Miles and Cecily Ingham have led the family in bringing the Cavendon estate back from the brink of disaster. But now, with the arrival of World War II, Cavendon Hall will face its biggest challenge yet. It is a challenge that will push the Inghams and Swanns to protect each other and the villagers and reveal their true capacity for survival and rebirth.

Told with Bradford’s deft, evocative prose and featuring a beloved cast of characters, The Cavendon Luck is a story of intrigue, romance, sorrow, and joy that readers won’t soon forget.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

The Cavendon Luck by Barbara Taylor Bradford reminds me so much of my beloved favorite British TV program, The Downton Abbey.  Both are about keeping the family place afloat during tough times. There’s always a disaster of some sort just around the corner and right after everything seems to be doing well. Barbara Taylor Bradford lures her audience back to 1938 where it all begins…The Cavendon Luck is an extraordinary historical fiction that will grab readers instantly with its intrigue and fascinating cast of characters. The emotional journey is quite a ride. Just as in real life, the roads get bumpy, tough or easy and joyous.

After reading this stunning new title by Barbara Taylor Bradford, I would love to see this turned into a big motion picture. The story brings readers in both emotionally and physically. The scenes are so vivid that they pop off the pages into the reader’s mind. The tightly knit family showered with so much love makes readers’ hearts melt into butter. The idea of war and what it might brings sounds alarms within the characters. It causes a curtain of suspense to hang thickly in the air as every page is quickly turned. Cavendon Hall is brought back and safe for the moment but how much longer will that last if war does set in? Readers will love the two families both the Inghams and the Swanns.  The tale is switched from telling it from the character’s point of view to the narrator’s. Excitement, danger, and livelihoods are all on a tight line where the Cavendon Hall is concerned. So many have put in so much to keep it going…World War II is just around the corner fear, death, and loss will soon be upon them all. Friendship, romance, and courage are all a part of this magnificent thrilling novel. I couldn’t put the book down…until I read it all. Readers will indeed fall in love with this second masterpiece by Barbara Taylor Bradford. Overall, I highly recommend The Cavendon Luck to readers worldwide.

 

Review: Niveus

 

Synopsis:

Niveus is…perfectly peculiar.

The silver-haired beauty with eyes the color of a dying rose is the only daughter of Ravan and Nicolette. She wanders the Wintergrave Realm like no other, unseen and unheard, sharing an extraordinary gift. The Wintergrave Dynasty’s strange daughter, she beloved by all and understood by none.

Ravan’s realm seems the perfect place to shield Niveus from the outside world and all the dangers that lurk there, until…a wicked soul from the North appears. Malik is smitten with such a profound hatred and jealousy of Ravan that he comes with one intent—to destroy his daughter.

But Malik’s scheme takes a twisted turn when he finally lays eyes on the extraordinary creature, and his wicked plan drags Niveus and those who love her, on an epic trek like no other. And with Niveus’ power at his disposal, it seems no one can stop Malik—not Risen, not Nicolette…not even Ravan.

What will it take to tilt the world even again? Perhaps the undying love of another is the only thing that can conquer true evil, but what will be the sacrifice needed to bring Malik’s bloody realm to the ground?

All your favorite characters return in this final chapter of the Wintergrave Chronicles. Venture with them into 14th century Prussia to discover if Malik will be undone or if Niveus or someone she loves…is lost forever.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Niveus by Sharon Cramer is beautifully stunning. I have never read such a powerful novel like this one. Love, courage and hope are just a few themes that make this a must read for all. A kingdom battling against an evil that is intent on taking down everything and keeping it for himself. Niveus is a young woman who is a beauty unlike any other woman and is thus feared a bit those around her. She instantly goes to those who are suffering. Niveus can travel realms and has her own powers just like mom has. Niveus is a leading female character that believes whatever fate has dished out then that’s what was meant to be. Niveus goes through a lot of suffering as well…as the evil comes, onto her, taking her for himself and soon his fate will be decided. Niveus has many who would battle their lives to keep her safe, like her brother and the man whom she truly loves. Readers will soon find that Niveus is carrying a secret and the fate of everyone is one that readers must figure out on their own…Sharon Cramer’s talent is obvious as readers turn every page to read the fast-paced yet well-written plot. A story that will capture readers and send them into a whole new world. I loved reading this fantasy piece about sacrifice and  unconditional love. Overall,  highly recommend this brilliant title to all.

 

Review: The Damned of Petersburg

 

Synopsis:

GLORY TURNED GRIM…

…and warfare changed forever. As Grant pinned Lee to Petersburg and Richmond, the Confederacy’s stubborn Army of Northern Virginia struggled against a relentless Union behemoth, with breathtaking valor and sacrifice on both sides. That confrontation in the bloody summer and autumn of 1864 shaped the nation that we know today.
From the butchery of The Crater, where stunning success collapsed into a massacre, through near-constant battles fought by heat-stricken soldiers, to the crucial election of 1864, The Damned of Petersburg resurrects our Civil War’s hard reality, as plumes and sabers gave way to miles of trenches.

Amid the slaughter of those fateful months, fabled leaders—Grant and Lee, Winfield Scott Hancock and A. P. Hill—turned to rising heroes, Confederates “Little Billy” Mahone and Wade Hampton, last of the cavaliers, or Union warriors such as tragedy-stricken Francis Channing Barlow and the fearless Nelson Miles, a general at twenty-four.
Nor does Ralph Peters forget the men in the ranks, the common soldiers who paid the price for the blunders of leaders who’d never know their names. In desperate battles, now forgotten, such as Deep Bottom, Globe Tavern and Reams Station, soldiers on both sides, pushed to the last human limits, fought on as their superiors struggled to master a terrible new age of warfare.

The Damned of Petersburg revives heroes aplenty—enriching our knowledge of our most terrible war—but, above all, this novel’s a tribute to the endurance and courage of the American soldier, North or South.

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

The Damned of Petersburg by Ralph Peters is an extraordinary novel taking readers deep into te heart of Civil War. Ralph Peters has masterfully captured each and every detail and organized his writing to relive the memorable moments in history. This is a novel all readers should read no matter what they’re preferred genre is. This story doesn’t feel real just because it was based, off of historical facts, but because of the talented writing of Ralph Peters. I got to experience the memories and daily lives that some of the men during this era. It was fascinating from page one and still captivated me until the ending.

The Damned of Petersburg brings, to life, the lives, hardships, and bravery of the men who fought during the Civil War. I love anything that is about history or brings, to life, the precious moments fought and lived by those now dead. Famous men such as Grant, Lee, Winfield Scott Hancock and many others will be popping off the pages as readers turn them. Ralph Peters has created a world, that lures readers in from the beginning. It’s fascinating how history can show us cruel life really was and what those moments may have been like if we were to witness them with our own eyes and ears. Many soldiers whose names we don’t know, as well as their leading officers, are also brought to readers’ attention. I loved that about Ralph Peter’s writing. He wrote The Damned of Petersburg in a way to remember everyone and not just the officers with special ranks. Warfare in it’s purest form is brought to readers everywhere. Overall, I found this novel to be remarkable and stunning. I highly recommend this read to readers worldwide.

 

Review: The Customer Is Always Wrong

 

Synopsis:

’90s grunge kid Conrad Jacoby is on the verge of graduating from Hiawatha High. Eager to leave the nest and his alcoholic Vietnam veteran father behind, Conrad joins the workforce where he tests his luck at minimum wage jobs in food service and retail, building his savings and his backbone with the goal of moving out. Although Conrad is determined, he quickly finds that his sheltered Minnesota upbringing has not prepared him for the life challenges and difficult personalities he will encounter in this coming of age comedy.

My Rating: 5 stars

My Review:

The Customer Is Always Wrong by CC Standish is one outstanding piece. Readers will automatically take to this novel like it’s the last food source left on the planet. CC Standish brings readers a fresh, exciting, and vibrant novel. The protagonist gets into a lot of trouble. Every time he does, readers will be there laughing along the way and enjoying the thrill ride as they soar to the last page. Not only is the story intriguing but the protagonist is one that readers worldwide can easily connect with on so many levels. We all have been there and done that. The Customer Is Always Wrong will bring back memories to readers everywhere. This is a must read that readers won’t be able to put down…once they read it. Overall, I highly recommend CC Standish’s brilliantly well-written novel to all.

 

Review: Jump

 

Synopsis:

In this book, Orsi invites you on a journey where she says good-bye to her 9 to 5 job and Jumps into the unknown. All she knows is that she can’t fail. Not because she is a super woman, but because she realises that failing is never trying. She decides to get out of her comfort zone, and follow her heart.

Her project is to write a self-help book within just 90 days, while she simultaneously coaches 3 people with 3 very different obstacles they wish to overcome and shares their case studies with us using various coaching techniques. During this period, in the hope of finding Mr. Right, Orsi is back to dating and even after her various heartbreaks, she pulls herself together and doesn’t give up until she finally finds love. Orsi introduces a diet that has changed her whole life for the better and last but not least, she shares some excellent ideas and techniques on how to manage our finances and how to start moving towards achieving financial freedom with a little help from the “Law of Attraction”. With her book, Orsi encourages all of us to dare to Jump, be smart and believe that the Universe will help us along the way to achieve anything we want in just 3 months.

Don’t worry if you are not sure of what your first steps should be, Orsi will support you in reaching your full potential and be that amazing person who you always wanted to be.

My Rating: 5 stars

My Review:

Jump by Orsi Kovacs is a sensational hit from page one. Readers will automatically be drawn deeper into this exciting book. Readers can almost sense and feel what the author has masterfully penned. The writing is well-developed and creates an air of suspense. One that will keep readers turning the pages to find out what happens next.

Jump is a self-journey that readers will take and follow along as the writer shows her readers what happens. From working a job that no longer interested her to turning in her resignation and feeling the fear of what next is one that propels readers forward into the world of life’s changes. Some times we find that we are better suited for other things. Things we may not have noticed until we take that one daring leap like Orsi Kovacs did. This was definitely the most inspiring tale of a real woman and real life decisions that shaped her future. I have found this book as a guide that gently takes me through the process and steps f redefining me and my life’s purpose. The possibility of failing is a fear all face. But getting the courage to embrace the unknown is a defeat for the strong and successful. Overall, I highly recommend this well-written book to all.

Book Review: Win Me Over by Nicole Michaels

Win Me Over is a sensational read. Readers will automatically connect with the main characters and fall in love with this beautifully written novel. Family, friends, and some courage are just a few of the main themes found in Win Me Over. Nicole Michaels has done a brilliant job in bringing to life characters whose roles in the community have such a huge influence every where they go. No matter where one has come from in life nor what your position is these two characters teach the real meaning of life, love, and friendship. Sometimes things in life get a little messy but with someone there willing to be at your side nothing is impossible.

A football coach whose career ended because of his leg injury keeps coming back to bit him in the rear. Did he lose the woman he loved because he pushed her away or was it because of something else? Bennett Clark is a rule kind of man and when he stumbles across a classroom and sees the new dance team coach, he is left harder than a rock. He hasn’t even seen her face and he already wants to know her more. Then there’s Callie Daniels whose mother is one eccentric woman but when it comes down to it, Callie realizes that there’s more to her mom than she thought. Callie and Bennett are soon introduced with a dilemma. The boss wants them to work together to help each other out. It’s a win-win for them and the school. But what neither one expected was to fall completely in love. Can these two work together and help those they care about without getting hurt? I loved reading this spectacular contemporary romance novel by Nicole Michaels. I look forward to reading more novels by her in the future. Overall, I highly recommend this story to readers worldwide and rate Win Me Over a five out of five stars.

Book Review: Affairytale by C.J. English

Affairytale by C.J. English is incredibly stunning  and addictive to read. Beware readers, once you open up to that first page, you won’t want to put the novel back down. An exciting tale of one woman’s journey of her current marriage that lacks the passion and love she seeks. But early on, she finds the man who is everything she wants and needs. A friend of her brother. Grant steps onto the scene and instantly our main female is drawn to him like a moth is to a flame. She can’t resist the connection she feels. But she has a ring on her finger and is stuck in a marriage that doesn’t give her what she needs. It isn’t soon that readers can feel sympathy for her husband and then once they see more of the man her husband is, readers will be cheering on the main character. Because she will be going after what she wants instead of living in a life that will only make her bitter and cold. But will the Grant be hers?

 

Affairytale by C.J. English, is a must read for all readers. This brilliant masterpiece gives readers an inside viewpoint on what happens inside an affair. An affair that will lure you deep into one women’s self-discovery of finding the right man to love. This plot in fascinating and gives readers glimpses into a real life story told in a fictional way. I loved reading this story. The title sounded interesting and when I began reading the story it wasn’t like what I was expecting. It went beyond my expectations and found it to utmost liking. Intriguing, suspenseful, and with real life drama that places it higher than any other novel within its genre. I highly recommend this book to every reader. If you enjoy romance, finding love, and strong characters than this is definitely for you! Overall, I rate Affairytale a five out of five stars.

Book Review: The Strange Maid by Tessa Gratton

The Strange Maid, is definitely an exciting read! A paranormal romance for young adults that triggers the senses and pulls at the heart. Decisions and sacrifices have to be made if Signy Valborn wants to be the next Valkyrie. Two others will help her get to where she needs to be. Ned has to teach her things she needs to know of in fighting and death. Soren has his future connected to the next Valkyrie but Signy seems to love another. Will both Ned and Soren help Signy meet her destiny or will they fail? Young love was portrayed well by Tessa Gratton inside her amazing novel. I found it intriguing and new. It wasn’t like any YA romance that I have ever read. The plot was suspenseful with every new scene. Keeping me on my toes as I read further into the book. The scenes were visual and sensual too. Bringing the characters to life before my eyes. This story is full of adventure and displays the realistic feelings of young adults. I highly enjoyed reading it. I would definitely recommend readers everywhere to pick up this stunning piece. Tessa’s unique writing and well written plot is a must read!