Book Nook Club: December 2011

December 29, 2011

Ravenstoke by Augusta Blythe

Ravenstoke is the second book in a series called Universe Unbound by Augusta Blythe.

I read and reviewed her first book, Winterborne, at the start of the year, and you can find that review here.

Ravenstoke continues to follow Loie and Mia as they learn more about who they really are and the secrets that tie them together. Loie is coming into her own as a Universal and learning that she is way more powerful than she ever imagined. Andreas is still around, helping Loie train by day and smooching with Mia by night.

When Andreas is pulled into a secret mission in England, Loie is left on her own to train... until the replacement shows up. Gorgeous and sly, Cian. Cian decides to try and push Loie as far as she can go to really test out her limits. And they both realize that she's quite amazing.

I can't really go into any more detail than that or I risk giving away some of the goodies... the twists, turns and surprises that makes this book great. This book works really hard at developing characters and relationships, especially Loie's, and it pays off in the end. You also get to meet the illusive Mr. Winterborne... finally! And Cian... swoooooon.

This book is absolutely transitional... not as action packed as the first, but definitely leading up so some good drama... I can feel it.

You'd definitely want to read these in order, or you'll be lost. Loie is a Universal, not a witch or a magical creature. You need some backstory to grasp the details.

Read them... you'll like it! I can't wait for the next one!

4 Stars

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book for the purpose of this review. These are my honest opinions.
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December 28, 2011

11/22/63: A Novel by Stephen King

I'm a fan of Stephen King. He's a talented writer who does a great job with gruesome horror genre books like It but also manages to write suspense and general fiction in an enjoyable way. My favorite books by him are Duma Key and Insomnia while I despised The Dome (really, aliens?). I enjoyed the Dark Tower series in general but hated how he wrote himself into the last book.

All of that said, I am unsure how I feel about 11/22/63. The plot is fairly straight forward: Jake's friend finds a time tunnel to 1958, and recruits Jake to go back in time and stop the assassination of JFK.  In those five years of living in the past, Jake not only shadows Lee Harvey Oswald but also carves out a semi-normal life for himself teaching English in a small town.

I read it fast. At 800 pages, the story was compelling enough that I enjoyed it and didn't think about taking a break from the book. Still, it could have benefited from some editing. There are a lot of Easter eggs hidden in the story, references to other Stephen King novels.  The romance aspect was both lovely and authentically tragic.

My enthusiasm waned with the ending.  The chapters that actually occur on the date 11/22/63 drag, and I kept thinking that the surely the universe would throw something more at them. Without going into too much detail, the final part of the book is simply not enough for me. A lot of explanation is skimmed over. I'm not sure how else it could have ended, but some of the conclusions that simply felt forced and hurried, without any supporting explanation.

three stars
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December 27, 2011

The Bastard by Brenda Novak

Jeannette Boucher, a young French beauty from a family left penniless by the revolution, must marry against her will to save them all from ruin. But almost immediately after the vows are spoken, she learns that her old English husband is impotent-and in his desire for an heir, he plans to compromise her in the worst way. Determined to escape such a fate, she stows away on one of His Majesty's frigates. But a woman alone is in constant danger.

To Lieutenant Treynor, honor means everything....

Born a bastard to a wayward marquise, Lieutenant Crawford Treynor was given to a poor farmer to raise and was maltreated until he ran away to join the Royal Navy. Treynor is determined to prove he's as good as any other man and rise to captain his own frigate. But once he finds Jeannette aboard The Tempest he must decide whether to return her to the man he knows would abuse her-or risk everything, even his life, to keep her safe.

While this book wasn't incredible, it was a good way to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon. I really enjoyed both the main characters - Treynor and Jeannette - and how powerful they both were in their own way. There is definite sexual tension between the two of them and I have to warn you, there is a little bit of sex in the book as well as Jeannette and Treynor work together to protect each other. And unlike most romance novels there was actually quite a bit of plot to this one as well as Treynor tried to come to terms with his relationship with his mother as well as his relationship with Jeannette. 3 stars and recommended for someone who likes a good romance.

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12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Winners

Thank you to everyone for entering our 12 Days of Christmas giveaways. I hope we introduced you to some great new homemade artists as well as gave you some great gift ideas for those book lovers in your life. The winners of each of the giveaways is listed below. If I have not contacted you already, please email me at booknookclub2@gmail.com to claim your prize. Happy holidays everyone!

Amazon Gift Card - Marie
Homemade Book Purse - Marija
Book Lover Note Cards - nellana@hotmail.com
Mini Journals - mamacita8085@yahoo.com
Reading Pillow - dvdgossett915@gmail.com
Kindle Cover - taraz9@excite.com
Custom Quote Necklace - nic.avesani@gmail.com
I Read Art Print - gkuroda@gmail.com
Recycled Book Journal - chocolate_frogs7@yahoo.com
Custom Book Tote - kiddomsg@gmail.com
Customized Book Plates - megnate@telus.net and kjmillionie@gmail.com
Reading Rocks T-Shirt- jrlbeale1@googlemail.com

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December 24, 2011

The First Rule of Ten: A Tenzing Norbu Mystery- By Gay Hendricks and Tinker Lindsay

Usually books with co-authors completely turn me off, their disjointed thoughts trying to come together to create one cohesive story that usually falls short of anything creative and interesting. Gay Hendricks and Tinker Lindsay elevate this writing concept to the level where it was intended to reside. Combining Lindsay’s screenwriting talents and love of yoga and meditation with Hendricks’ contributions in the body-mind therapy field, the Tenzing Norbu mystery novels were born.

The first book in this series, “The First Rule of Ten” introduces the reader to the main protagonist, Tenzing Norbu. With a background ranging from a former Tibetan Buddhist monk to a LAPD police officer in the Robbery/Homicide division, Tenzing is not your normal private detective. After quitting his job as a police officer, Tenzing begins to ponder where his life is headed. Enter Barbara, the drug-reformed ex-girlfriend of Tenzing’s former landlord. After a bizarre conversation where she reveals she escaped a religious cult, Barbara turns up in a park dead, and Tenzing gains his first client as a detective, even though she cannot pay him.

While investigating Barbara’s murder, Tenzing meets a host of characters including a sexy chef who he cannot get enough of, a group of religious cult members, shady insurance salesmen, and John D, an almond farmer. Discovering connections between all of these characters, Tenzing slowly begins to uncover a plot that involves more than just Barbara’s murder.

“The First Rule of Ten” starts off a bit slow, as Hendricks and Lindsay develop Tenzing’s persona, which proves crucial toward the end of the novel. Tenzing is a flawed character, in that he clearly has issues with his parents and analyzes his issues with intimacy after one date. However, these flaws, while some seem unrealistic and forced, add to the bizarreness of this character. How often do you find a Buddhist monk who owns a Wilson Combat .38 Supergrade gun and drives a 1965 Shelby Mustang? Tenzing holds on to his spirituality and love for simplicity as his navigates through this labyrinth.

As a lover of mystery novels, this book certainly had some twists that had me speeding through the pages. I was waiting for the different aspects of the story to connect, and I felt that Tenzing was waiting for the same thing. Combining spiritual faith with logic, he serves as the modern Sherlock Holmes. Quirky and a loner, Tenzing takes the reader on a journey as the clues start to fit together, revealing an intricate web of lies, corruption, and death.

Released in January 2012, “The First Rule of Ten” will have you waiting for Hendricks and Lindsay’s sequel, “The Second Rule of Ten.” I recommend this book to readers who want a detective novel that brings Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s hero to the modern age.

4.5 stars

**I received a free copy of this book from Hay House Publishers.

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December 22, 2011

Real by Shelley Malcolm

“REAL” is a collection of 60 inspirational stories by Shelley Malcolm, with photos by Terilee Dawn Ouimette. The stories are deeply revealing, while the photos are anonymous, focusing only on each subject’s hands.

The book is divided into 11 different sections focused on one particular element of life - hope, love, inspiration, work, etc. Each of those sections includes pictures of hands and stories based on those pictures. The stories are about people from all walks of life including the rich and famous and people pinching pennies. As unique as each of the individuals are, they are all joined together in this beautiful book.

I received a paperback copy of this book to review but could see myself buying a hard cover version as a coffee table book for my mother-in-law. The pictures are beautiful and inspiring even without the written stories, and I am amazed by how much someone's hands can tell about their life. It makes me wonder what story my hands tell. I recommend this book, especially for anyone who loves photography and inspiring stories.

You can purchase a copy of the book here. Proceeds from all sales are split among various charities. If you'd like to see what other people are saying, you can check out other stops on the blog tour.

*I received a free copy in return for my honest opinion and review.
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December 20, 2011

A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

Wow. What a powerful, heartbreaking, amazing book.

A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry is one of the best pieces of literature that I have read in a long time. With 600 pages and covering topics such as abject poverty and every day life in the corrupt regime of Indira Gandhi, this is not light reading.

The first chapter starts off with a chance meeting between two tailors, a woman seeking to hire tailors and find a renter, and a young man looking to rent a room. The first third of the novel or so details each of their histories and backgrounds, sometimes even tracing all the way back to the lives of their grandparents. These beautifully written and often tragic stories provide a rich understanding of who these characters are. The rest of the book deals with the four characters working and living with each other for the next year.

The title could refer to many things, but what I saw as the most prevalent theme was the fine line between hope and despair. At what point do you give up and decide things are hopeless? So much of the book is sad, depressing and upsetting, from violent caste killings to forced sterilizations. As a reader, you keep rooting for the characters even if you know that happily ever after is probably not in their future. You just keep hoping that they find some peace and a small bit of happiness.

The details are rich and the setting of India in the 1970's is compelling and interesting--I didn't know much about it before now. This is definitely not a happy book. It made me keenly aware the privilege in my life, of having a safe and secure place to live and always having enough to eat. I highly recommend this book for anyone with a love of literature (as long as you are okay with bleak stories).

five stars
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December 15, 2011

Hot Jazz & Cold Bodies in NOLA by John R McCormick

Monty Rake just got a transfer from the Baton Rouge police department to the New Orleans Special Investigations Unit. But it wasn't until he arrived that he learned just what the SI Unit did... keep the city of New Orleans safe from abominations of all kinds.

The small SI Unit consists of only 5 people... 6 now that Monty joined their team. They tend to see a quick turn around, since their job is rather deadly. But so far, no one's had Monty's skills, brains or balls to fight against these monsters. Vampires, werewolves (and other were-animals), and demons are just a few of the abominations that Monty faces, and befriends.

When the Unit takes a rogue vampire captive, in an effort to clean up the city of a particularly dirty coven of vampires, Monty also finds himself taking on a secret assignment. Monty and the captive vampire, Darius, take a liking to one another and decide to cautiously share information. Their unlikely friendship causes unexpected consequences and is one hell of a ride!

If you love fantasy books... vampires and the like... but are tired of the predictable, try this book. It is ANYTHING but predictable. This book is from a completely different perspective... the cops... the hunters... the guardians. This book was fast paced and exciting throughout. It was funny, sarcastic, nerve wrecking, dangerous and even sexy (without being gross). The writing is really great and moves along nicely. My only complaint was that it wrapped up a little too quickly. As I read it on my kindle, I kept clicking the next page to see what else would happen... but when I looked down, I saw I was at 100%. I didn't want it to be over! That's a good sign.

5 Stars
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December 14, 2011

Ashfall by Mike Mullin

Ashfall is a young adult dystopian novel. The premise is that a "super volcano" in Yellowstone National Park erupts, shrouding the entire United States in ash in a natural disaster of epic porportion. The main character is Alex, a fifteen year old boy who takes to the road to rejoin his parents. He travels through a transformed world, where violence in the norm and everyone is desperate for food and clean water.

There is a lot of action in this book, and Mullin doesn't shy away from more of the gritty details of a natural disaster. I like the romance in it too--it's portrayed in a gradual, natural manner and the female protaganist is both tough and smart.

There were stretches of the book that went very, very slowly. There were parts that didn't seem very realistic--for example, Alex's Taekwondo training actually comes in handy (does that ever really happen?). The ending is a bit unsatisfying to me and hints at a sequel. All in all, I could see this being a popular book for both teenage boys and girls, and it's definitely worth the read if you enjoy the genre.

Three stars
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December 13, 2011

Gift Ideas for Book Lovers & Giveaway Recap

Hope you've all enjoyed being introduced to some great new book-related gift ideas and designers. As a recap, here are my 12 favorite gift ideas for book lovers this holiday season.

Check out each post for more details and a chance to win one of 12 great gifts. All giveaways end tomorrow, Wednesday, December 14th at midnight EST.

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December 12, 2011

Laughing Through Life by Connie (Corcoran) Wilson

Laughing Through Life was certainly an interesting read as I journey through Connie (Corcoran) Wilson’s short stories that detailed her attempts at cooking, her disasters with shoes, and her views of none other than President George W. Bush. I wanted to love this book and quite honestly, I enjoyed the majority of it. The tales, while disjointed and not revolving around a singular theme except for the fact that they all occurred in Connie’s life, made me laugh out loud. I felt connected with Connie over her inability to keep grapefruit ripe and her observation that everything DOES go wrong at dinner parties where the main goal is to impress your guests. Also, let’s not overlook the story about her student who wanted to perform a mock interview for Hooters, and certainly dressed the part!

My only strong criticism of the book was her political content. I tried to remain unbiased throughout reading the entire book and believe I set some of my personal views aside with grace. I also understand that strong political views exist, and the fact that a woman such as Connie uninhibitedly speaks these opinions makes me proud to live in America where freedom of speech is rampant. However, I think the continual outpouring of these political stories distracted me from the main goal of Laughing Through Life: to make the reader cry with laughter. I would have liked to see the Bush jokes decreased a bit and more antidotes about her children and life experiences inserted in the book. Although, putting my personal opinions aside, I do have to say that her story about getting kicked out of the radio station for singing an anti-Iraq song proved hilarious.

Overall, this book made me laugh and smile, which I believe was Connie (Corcoran) Wilson’s goal. The novel reads like a collection of short stories, so do not expect an overall theme to be present, but this type of book was refreshing to read. I do warn that if you have strong Conservative views to not reading this book or to read with an open mind. Laughing Through Life just might surprise you.

3 stars.

*I was provided with a free copy of this book to review.

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12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas for Book Lovers Day 12: Reading Rocks Shirt (Closed)

I'm not sure I've ever seen a gift list that is complete without clothes. So last but not least, let me introduce you to Sewing Sassy who designs t-shirts just for book lovers like you and am. Check out her awesome Reading Rocks t-shirt below.

This gift would be perfect for a teacher, a book lover, or any of your kids who love reading with you. This t-shirt is a black Jerzee brand non-fitted shirt with hand cut appliqued letters in assorted turquoise colors and Sewing Sassy has generously offered to give away one to a Book Nook Club reader. Wearing this, you'll never forget that reading rocks.

To Enter:

Leave a comment on this post.

Extra Entries:

Follow Book Nook Club via GFC or on Twitter @BookNookClub.
Like Sewing Sassy on Facebook.

Check out Sewing Sassy and tell me which of her products you like best.

The Small Print:

Giveaway open to US Residents only.
Giveaway prize includes one black "Reading Rocks" t-shirt with applique letters in winners choice of fabric

Giveaway winner will be chosen by random using random.org.

Giveaway closes at midnight EST on Wednesday, December 14th.

12 Days of Christmas for Book Lovers
Don't forget to enter our other giveaways as the 12 Days of Christmas continues.

Day 1: Amazon Gift Card
Day 2: Homemade Book Purse
Day 3: Book Lover Note Cards
Day 4: Mini Journals
Day 5: Reading Pillow
Day 6: Kindle Cover
Day 7: Custom Quote Necklace
Day 8: I Read Art Print
Day 9: Recycled Book Journal
Day 10: Custom Book Tote
Day 11: Customized Book Plates

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December 11, 2011

Outlawed Love by J.M. Krumbine

Kate Sharpe, US Marshal, is a woman on a mission with no time for love or romance. Her prisoner, the handcuffed hottie, Kyle Archer, just turned State’s evidence on notorious mobster Jonathon Bragan. Kate’s responsible for getting him from the courthouse to the jailhouse, but can she do it without losing her heart?

I wanted to like this book. I thought the idea behind it was a good one and even the plot was okay, it just fell short for way too many reasons. Maybe it's because I didn't like the main character Kate and her judgmental assuming ways. Or maybe it's because the story was way too predictable. I figured out the main twist in the book within the first couple of chapters and was never surprised again. And my biggest pet peeve was that somehow Kate and Archer think they're in love within the space of what three days where neither of them are truly honest with each other. Lust maybe, but love, I wasn't buying it. And I have to say it, I found the cover of the book to be pretty cheesy.

The book did have one bright spot for me - I really liked Archer. Even though he was a little tough, he still had a tender heart and I liked his muscled vulnerability. If you're looking for a quick read that doesn't keep you guessing, this book might be for you. But unfortunately it wasn't for me. 2 stars.

**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
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12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas for Book Lovers Day 11: Katie Crawford Book Plates & Giveaway

Today's gift idea is something that every book lover needs - adhesive book plates. How many times have you borrowed a book from someone only to forget who you borrowed it from a month later? Or forgot a book at a friend's house and lost it forever because they didn't know whose it was.

It's a vicious cycle and one that can easily be broken with these Katie Crawford adhesive book plates. What are book plates you ask? They are an easy way to put your information in each of your books, especially if they are adhesive like these ones are. Peel and stick. And no more losing your books.

Each colorful bookplate measures approximately 2.5 x 3.5" and is printed on matte, easy-to-write-on sticker paper. The six designs included in this set are Sweater Mouse, Brown Owl, Green Dinosaur, Dapper Skeleton, Rainbow Cloud, and Retro Trees.

Katie has generously offered to give away two sets of six colorful bookplates to Book Nook Club readers, your choice from her cute designs. In addition to cute bookplates, Katie also designs gorgeous invitations and e-vites.

To Enter:

Leave a comment on this post.

Extra Entries:

Follow Book Nook Club via GFC or on Twitter @BookNookClub.

Check out Katie Crawford designs and tell me which of her products you like best.

The Small Print:

Giveaway open to US and Canada residents only.
Giveaway prize includes one set of six adhesive bookplates and shipping.

Giveaway winner will be chosen by random using random.org.

Giveaway closes at midnight EST on Wednesday, December 14th.

12 Days of Christmas for Book Lovers
Don't forget to enter our other giveaways as the 12 Days of Christmas continues.

Day 1: Amazon Gift Card
Day 2: Homemade Book Purse
Day 3: Book Lover Note Cards
Day 4: Mini Journals
Day 5: Reading Pillow
Day 6: Kindle Cover
Day 7: Custom Quote Necklace
Day 8: I Read Art Print
Day 9: Recycled Book Journal
Day 10: Custom Book Tote

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December 10, 2011

The Whisperer by Donato Carrisi

The opening chapter of Donato Carrisi’s novel The Whisperer describes a hideous scene where the severed arms of young girls are found in a clearing. Enter Dr. Goran Gavila and his team of special agents: Klaus Boris, Sarah Rosa, and Stern. As they attempt to find five missing girls, the discovery of their arms does not leave the agents with much hope. Plus, the fact that they found the arm of a sixth unidentified girl sends this team into a whirlwind, as they attempt to predict what this monster will reveal next.

Officer Mila Vasquez specializes in finding missing children. Having a sixth sense about the men and women who abduct the young individuals, she successfully rescues hundreds of children, yet shies away from the limelight. While harboring a secret of her own, she is called in to help Dr. Gavila and his team solve the missing girl case. Named Albert by the team, the abductor begins to leave the little girls’ bodies in places that reveal a previous horrendous crime not discovered by officials. Battling time, Mila rushes to discover the identity of the sixth girl while uncovering horrible secrets including murder and rape.

Donato Carrisi studied law and criminology and it certainly shows when reading this gripping novel. The beginning is a bit disjointed since I didn’t realize how he was going to connect the two storylines, but once the connection was made, the novel took unexpected turns.

I felt as if the novel was detailing a real police case and enjoyed the scientific and logical explanations given by Gavila, which never seemed farfetched. He carefully explained the thought process of Albert, the serial killer, and motives behind his actions. I also instantly bonded with Mila who through her personal pain and insecurities put the case in the foreground. While the rest of the team caught my attention, she seemed to view the case in a different light, allowing the reader to compare her viewpoint to the rest of the team.

Also, when I thought I had everything figured out, Carrisi throws another curveball, disrupting my sense of calm and accomplishment at outsmarting the perpetrator. You feel as if you are alongside Mila and Gavila, attempting to solve this mystery before the sixth girl is killed.

Carrisi also infused the novel with grotesque horror scenes, leaving the reader wondering if such crimes were even possible for a human being to commit. Combining mystery, intrigue, horror, and hope, The Whisperer is certainly one of best novels that I have read this year. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who loves a thrilling story and wants to get lost in a disturbingly realistic plot.

5 stars

**I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher to review. This novel will be released in the US in January 2012.

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12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas for Book Lovers Day 10: Book Tote by Story Snuggles

Today's gift idea is another perfect one for any book lover - a handmade book tote by Story Snuggles. This would be perfect to carry books, groceries, or anything else you need to get from one place or another. And look at all of the cute designs she has especially designed for your favorite book lover out there.

These aren't just your ordinary reusable tote bag though, they are handmade and each a little unique. Some have special library card pockets, other are fashionable clutches, and others have their own story to share. Story Snuggles also designs all sorts of other handmade items - custom bags, home decorations, felt stories, and pillows. She also has an entire line of children products because she believes reading should be something shared with the entire family, especially your kids.

To win your choice of one of Story Snuggles book tote bags, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post. I think my favorite is the book love one but I'll let you choose your favorite.

To Enter:

Leave a comment on this post.

Extra Entries:

Follow Book Nook Club via GFC or on Twitter @BookNookClub.

Check out Story Snuggles and tell me which of her products you like best.

The Small Print:

Giveaway open to US and Canada Residents only.
Giveaway prize includes book tote of your choice and shipping.

Giveaway winner will be chosen by random using random.org.

Giveaway closes at midnight EST on Wednesday, December 14th.

12 Days of Christmas for Book Lovers
Don't forget to enter our other giveaways as the 12 Days of Christmas continues.

Day 1: Amazon Gift Card
Day 2: Homemade Book Purse
Day 3: Book Lover Note Cards
Day 4: Mini Journals
Day 5: Reading Pillow
Day 6: Kindle Cover
Day 7: Custom Quote Necklace
Day 8: I Read Art Print
Day 9: Recycled Book Journal
Day 10: Custom Book Tote

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December 9, 2011

12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas for Book Lovers Day 9: Upcycled Book Journal & Giveaway

I saw today's gift idea for the first time at an arts & crafts fair in the Washington DC area. I didn't actually buy one then but knew I would eventually. I now have four or five of my own and not only are these awesome as journals, they are also great conversation starters because I almost always have one in my purse for writing things down.

I'm not sure who created the ones I first saw in DC, but some of my current favorites are designed by Daphne PaperCake Creations. She takes books and repurposes them into these great vintage book journals complete with the covers of the book and a couple of pages from the actual book itself.

With the right book, these could make a great personalized gift for someone. I actually have one made from "Are You My Mother" that I've been writing notes to my mom in for mother's day and think it'll be the perfect gift. Daphne has all sorts of options available and is willing to work with you if there's a book that you'd like to see made into a journal.

And best of all, Daphne has offered to giveaway one of her beautiful journals to one Book Nook Club winner. You can either choose one of the journals she's already made that is up on her Etsy shop or choose from one that she's made for her shows (she'll send you pictures). You can find out more about Daphne and PaperCake Creations on her Etsy shop or on her blog.

To Enter:

Leave a comment on this post.

Extra Entries:

Follow Book Nook Club via GFC or on Twitter @BookNookClub.

Check out PaperCake Creations and tell me which of her products you like best.

The Small Print:

Giveaway open to US Residents only.
Giveaway prize includes journal of your choice and shipping.

Giveaway winner will be chosen by random using random.org.

Giveaway closes at midnight EST on Wednesday, December 14th.

12 Days of Christmas for Book Lovers
Don't forget to enter our other giveaways as the 12 Days of Christmas continues.

Day 1: Amazon Gift Card
Day 2: Homemade Book Purse
Day 3: Book Lover Note Cards
Day 4: Mini Journals
Day 5: Reading Pillow
Day 6: Kindle Cover
Day 7: Custom Quote Necklace
Day 8: I Read Art Print
Day 9: Recycled Book Journal
Day 10: Custom Book Tote

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December 8, 2011

Farsighted by Emlyn Chand

I was skeptical about Farsighted before I began reading it. The main character, Alex, is blind. The MAIN character is BLIND! Imagine all the scenery and setting and sensory images you gain from a character's sight while reading! It concerned me. But I was sorely mistaken! Farsighted gains depth and dimension from Alex's blindness. Alex gives us sensory experience through smell, touch, and hearing that are so deep and so real I honestly even forgot he was blind for quite a while.

What makes Alex even more special is that he can see the future. And what makes Alex completley normal and totally relatable? He's bullied. He's bullied without mercy. His parents are openly flawed. The adults around him are odd. He is an average teen with an extrodinary talent. I really appreciated the realness that permeates the story, even through the supernatural 'farsight'.

When Alex sees a bad premonition of his friend Simmi, he is determined to stop it, and so begins the mystery part of the book. And I will openly admit, I was floored by the outcome - I totally guessed wrong and was shocked (in a good way) by where Alex's story ends up and I can't wait to read more!

This is one of the best YA books I have read in a very long time. I was hooked. I was enthralled. I was so engrossed I am still thinking about it everyday! Read this. You won't be dissapointed.

5 Stars! Recommended for teens and adults.
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12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas for Book Lovers Day 8: I Read Art Print by Parada Creations

How many of you have a specific place that you love to read - a favorite chair, your bed, a reading nook? I love to read curled up on the couch with my fluffy pillow behind me. Why do I ask? Because today's gift idea is a handmade one of a kind art print that would be a perfect addition to your favorite reading place. Any piece of art would be a great gift idea, but this one by Parada Creations is especially perfect for a book lover.

"I READ" is an 7 5/8" x 9 5/8" reading modern art print / poster that is a part of Parada's "It's A Passion" print series. Want to win "I Read" for yourself? All you have to do is comment on this post.

Each of her prints is made with great consideration to the message they will convey as well as the colors and the hand drawn illustrations they contain. Each will add a burst of color to brighten a room, and the messages and illustrations are guaranteed to bring a smile to one's face each day. Check out some of the other great unique designs available in Parada Creation's Etsy store.

To Enter:

Leave a comment on this post.

Extra Entries:

Follow Book Nook Club or on Twitter @BookNookClub.

Check out Parada Creations and tell me which of her products you like best.

The Small Print:

Giveaway open to US Citizens only.

Giveaway winner will be chosen by random using random.org.

Giveaway closes at midnight EST on Wednesday, December 14th.

12 Days of Christmas for Book Lovers
Don't forget to enter our other giveaways as the 12 Days of Christmas continues.

Day 1: Amazon Gift Card
Day 2: Homemade Book Purse
Day 3: Book Lover Note Cards
Day 4: Mini Journals
Day 5: Reading Pillow
Day 6: Kindle Cover
Day 7: Custom Quote Necklace
Day 8: I Read Art Print
Day 9: Recycled Book Journal
Day 10: Custom Book Tote

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December 7, 2011

12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas for Book Lovers Day 7: Quote Necklace by Kristin & Giveaway

Today's gift idea, like the book purse, is another gift that would be perfect for a woman of any age. And while this is a great idea for a book lover, this is actually a gift idea that works for anyone because it can be customized to match anyone's interests.

Let me introduce you to Kristin from Design by Any Other Name. She creates gorgeous jewelry - pendants, bracelets, necklaces, etc. - from Bible verses, quotes, and custom sayings. Here are some of my favorite designs from her Etsy shop.

I absolutely love the idea of putting a short quote from your favorite book on one of these pendants. I think the tough part would be coming up with which quote you wanted. She's done quite a few with literary quotes to get you started thinking.

For those of you who are up to the challenge, Kristin has offered to give away one custom necklace or bookmark with your favorite quote!

Prize includes:
* Pendant: 1" brass or copper square
* This can be placed on either a necklace or bookmark - both embellished with Swarovski crystal beads - your choice of color.
* Quotes MUST be short - there's only so much room on a pendant! A square can hold between 50-70 characters (not words) - including the person's name.

This is one piece of jewelry that will be completely unique to you (or whoever you decide to give this to) and that's why I love it so much. So start thinking about what quote you'll use if you win.

To Enter:

Leave a comment on this post.

Extra Entries:

Follow Book Nook Club or on Twitter @BookNookClub.

Check out Design by Any Other Name and tell me which of her products you like best.
Like Design by Any Other Name on Facebook.

The Small Print:

Giveaway open to anyone worldwide.
Giveaway prize includes a brass or copper square pendant with your choice of quote.

Giveaway winner will be chosen by random using random.org.

Giveaway closes at midnight EST on Wednesday, December 14th.
Giveaway prize will not be completed and shipped out until after Christmas.

12 Days of Christmas for Book Lovers
Don't forget to enter our other giveaways as the 12 Days of Christmas continues.

Day 1: Amazon Gift Card
Day 2: Homemade Book Purse
Day 3: Book Lover Note Cards
Day 4: Mini Journals
Day 5: Reading Pillow
Day 6: Kindle Cover
Day 7: Custom Quote Necklace
Day 8: I Read Art Print
Day 9: Recycled Book Journal
Day 10: Custom Book Tote

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