tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75894629438996578982024-03-17T23:03:21.819-04:00Book Nook ClubBritnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620610247395572368noreply@blogger.comBlogger887125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-32357187194999364572014-03-04T13:33:00.001-05:002014-03-04T20:15:54.069-05:00The Balance by Neal Wooten<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Canus is a land in which three races of man live in precarious balance with one another. The Fathers of the city in the sky, the Scavs (who call themselves The Spirit People), and the Children all rely upon one another for certain resources, a reliance kept in careful check by a system of rules and perpetuated by fear and ignorance.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Piri is a young man of The Fathers who has no idea that the Scavs and The Children exist until the day his transport falls from the sky, leaving him stranded on The Surface. He is rescued by Niko, one of the Children, who takes Piri to stay with his family until they can find a way to return him to the City.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Once Piri recovers from his ordeal he has to come to terms with a drastically different way of life. The sterile, dispassionate life he's always known is very different from the lives of the Children, who work hard, play hard, and form close relationships. They are strictly governed by a tome known as The Book, which promises swift and terrible punishment if the rules imposed upon them by the Fathers are not carefully observed. Most concerning of all is the Children's practice of sending away hundreds of their young people every seventh day, supposedly to live in the City; but Piri has never seen any of the Children in the city. He knows something is terribly wrong, but can't figure out what it is.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As time passes, Piri begins to accept that he will never go home and becomes an integral part of the Children's society. He finds himself making friends and falling in love with Niko, his rescuer. He finds ways to improve the Children's lives, some of which are rejected out of fear of The Book. But there's trouble too; the fearsome Scavs' raids have become more frequent and invasive.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">When Piri's rescue finally arrives, he has to decide if he can put his exciting new life behind him and return to a passionless existence in the City, thereby restoring the balance, or if he can find a way to solve the mystery surrounding The Book and help the Children escape from their oppression.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white;">The
story is filled with subtle innuendos. Judging by the language on The
Surface, which is a hybrid of English, Spanish, and Canadian words and
phrases, I assume the land "Canus" is derived from Canada and the
US. The three subspecies:
the Fathers, the Children, and the Spirit People are a jab at the Holy
Trinity. The Children even live in an area called the "Garden" where it
is forbidden to eat the fruit. These are just a few of many ambiguous
references hidden in the writing. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The Balance</i> is an exciting new take on HG Wells' <i>The Time Machine</i>, and like <i>The Time Machine</i> it causes the reader to consider the machinations of our own modern societies and the choices we make within -or without- those systems. It also explores new ways of looking at friendship, compassion, and love. Piri's adventure is one that will stay with the reader for a long time.</span></span><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-26071084398968397682013-10-14T15:16:00.002-04:002013-10-14T15:16:58.145-04:00The Preservationist, by Justin Kramon<br />
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A few years back, I had the pleasure of reviewing <a href="http://booknookclub.blogspot.com/2010/07/finny-by-justin-kramon.html" target="_blank">Finny</a>,
Justin’s debut novel. So, while I was happy to hear he had a second book
coming, I was particularly thrilled when he asked me to review <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Preservationist-Novel-Justin-Kramon/dp/1605984809/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1381777912&sr=8-1&keywords=the+preservationist" target="_blank">The Preservationist</a>.<br />
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Julia Stilwell is a college freshman grieving the loss of
her brother, the fallout from which her family is still struggling to overcome.
She’s also acclimating to a new school, lifestyle, and two mysterious suitors.</div>
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Sam Blount works in the snack bar of a small college in
Pennsylvania. He’s much older than the students, but still relates to them,
trading barbs and attending campus parties. Aside from being a bit socially
awkward, he seems like a nice guy.</div>
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Marcus Broley is in one of Julia’s classes and takes an
immediate interest in her. They go on a couple dates, but Julia quickly gets a
taste of his overprotective side.</div>
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The novel alternates between these three narrators. It moves
at a quick clip, from Julia and Marcus’ first date, to Sam’s pursuit and Julia’s
wavering interest between the two men, and ultimately to a heated ending that you'd expect from any good thriller. </div>
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It’s
the usual thriller in its pace and plot arc, both of which I appreciated. I finished the book in a day while on vacation. For me, the difference between this and other thrillers is that the
reader isn’t quite sure who the bad guy is until you're well into the story. </div>
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There were times I wanted to smack Julia for
her naiveté and poor decision-making skills. But then I remembered I had an
equally hard time fully discerning the truth behind these men – and I had the
benefit of knowing what each one was thinking. I appreciated the little flecks
of doubt Justin inserted into his story to keep me guessing until the moment I
realized exactly what was happening and it was too late for Julia to do
anything but succumb to her fate.</div>
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While Finny was a coming of age saga, this is more of a
quick frolic. If we’re being honest, I would’ve preferred a little more depth
to these characters, and a few more twists and turns (frankly, I'll say this about any thriller because I love a good twisty plot). However, there were
enough twists to keep the predictability at bay. The alternating narration kept the plot moving and kept me turning the pages. 4 stars. </div>
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<i>**I received a free advanced copy of this book for review purposes, but my opinion is all my own!** </i></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-11531666747810077162013-03-01T09:06:00.000-05:002013-03-01T09:06:23.231-05:00The Tutor's Daughter<br />
<br />
I recieved <em>The Tutor's Daughter</em> by Julie Klassen from Bethany House Pulishers for review through their <a href="http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/bethanyhouse/bookreviewers">blogger review program</a>. <br />
<br />
This book takes place in a seaside manor in England during the 1800's. The manor is owned by the Weston family. The father has four sons: two elder brothers from a first marriage and two younger ones with the current Mrs. Weston. The story revolves around Emma Smallwood whose father has been hired to be the live-in tutor of the two younger Weston brothers. She has grown up in a boys' academy and is used to pranks, but life in the Westons' manor is getting out of hand. Pranks, secrets, and betrayal all come into play with Emma growing and learning through it all. I am sure this book was marketed as a Christian historical romance, but I found it a very refreshing mystery. I enjoyed the fact that the mystery does not revolve around a murder. Instead the family's secret is the main plot path. Julie Klassen adds plenty of twists and suspense to keep you guessing. <br />
<br />
There is, of course, a romance in the book as well. The two elder Weston brothers are well know to Emma from their days at the academy. She admires one and is wary of the other. Throughout the book, Emma must learn to deal with the men they have become and leave behind the boys they were. <br />
<br />
One of the morals of this story is to live life to the fullest today and not wait for "someday". Another moral is to be willing to take a risk to achieve your goals. Both of these concepts change Emma's life and it was very fun to see her change into a better person because of them.<br />
<br />
I would really recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery and/or historical fiction.<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Frances Clementshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15477255521646203102noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-47732235530431427892013-02-27T12:52:00.000-05:002013-02-27T12:52:00.637-05:00Book Review of The Russian Hill Murders by Shirley Tallman<br />
Part of the fun of reading books is discovering midlist authors who have published good books but are still relatively unknown to the general public. Even with good editorial reviews, their titles languish in the Amazon ranking abyss.<br />
Such is the case with Oregon author Shirley Tallman, who has published a stable of highly-entertaining books from Minotaur/St. Martin's Press. When I recently read one of her cozies, <em>The Russian Hill Murders</em>, I wondered why I haven't heard of her or any of her work. Is it because she's not a name brand author and had been passed over by the press? The book was incredibly well-written and so engrossing I finished it in two days.<br />
<img alt="" src="http://static-l3.blogcritics.org/13/02/08/190535/russian-hill.jpg?t=20130208121515" style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" />The novel features a tough-minded socialite, Sarah Woolson, a female attorney in late 19th-century San Francisco working for the largest law firm in the city. Being a woman, and despite her success in solving a Nob Hill murder, she is treated as the company go-fer, asked to perform mundane tasks such as typing correspondence and making coffee for the stodgy partners who are of the opinion that law practice has no place for a woman.<br />
This second-class treatment galls Woolson. When a socialite chairing a hospital's charity event dies in the middle of a sit-down dinner, Woolson's catlike curiosity for sniffing out crimes where none seemingly exists goes into overdrive. Her suspicion is further validated after the accountant managing the charity's finances mysteriously dies of food poisoning. <br />
<br />
When the hospital's Chinese chef is conveniently arrested, Woolson's instinct tells her the perpetrator is someone else. This sends her on an investigative path to find the truth against the wishes of her bosses.<br />
<br />
The novel takes the reader to the belly of San Francisco's 1890s underworld, from the rough-and-tumble streets of the Barbary Coast, to the city's powerful tong gangs, to Chinatown's filthy sweatshops, contrasting it with the city's socialite world of which Sarah Woolson is a part.<br />
Good books such as this are getting harder and harder to come by. The narrative is evocative and funny, the voice, impeccably unique. The reader can't help but root for Woolson and follow her journey to the satisfying conclusion. This is a highly enjoyable novel, one that takes the reader to unusual time and places.<br />
<br />
Its sequel, <em>The Cliff House Strangler</em> is already in my Kindle bookshelf, glowing like a smoldering coal, waiting to be read.<br />
<br />
Article first published as <a href='<a href="http://blogcritics.org/books/article/book-review-the-russian-hill-murders/" target="_blank">http://blogcritics.org/<wbr></wbr>books/article/book-review-the-<wbr></wbr>russian-hill-murders/</a>'>Book Review: <i>The Russian Hill Murders</i> by Shirley Tallman</a> on Blogcritics.<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Harry Z. Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08004560512528969434noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-73157582391479640112013-02-09T13:29:00.001-05:002013-02-09T13:29:39.801-05:00Book Review of The Help by Kathryn Stockett<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">As
a practice, I don't usually review well-known books or those that had become bestsellers since I focus more on good books that are unknown or have
been published way in the past that younger folks may not have had the
opportunity to read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I would be
remiss if I didn't review The Help, for this novel touched me straight in the
heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana", "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>The novel is set in 1960s Mississippi, a time
when racism is still a way of life in some towns, but is being confronted by
rapidly developing civil rights changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The story is told from three point-of-views: that of two black maids and
a young white woman who is the daughter of a big cotton farmer and raised by a
black maid. The three-tiered POV works well in that it allows readers to absorb
the story from different perspectives, each one powerful in its own way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The novel took me into the <nobr><a class="FAtxtL" href="http://zoltairebookreview.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-04-22T09:25:00-07:00&max-results=7#" id="FALINK_1_0_0"><span style="color: #336699;">kitchens</span></a></nobr> of white families and
allowed me to experience in a vicarious way how black maids are treated, mostly
despicably bad, though at times with certain characters, the relationship (even
friendship) between maid and master turns into something beautiful and touching
like that of white aspiring writer Skeeter and maid Aibileen who helps Skeeter
write her inflammatory book; Aibeleen and her four-year-old ward Mae Mobley (who
sees Aibeleen as her true mother); and feisty maid Mindy and her white trash and
sensitive master Cecelia Foote. The Help is a book that is hard to put down
and makes the reader feel completely satisfied, yet sorry that the experience
is over.</span><br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Harry Z. Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08004560512528969434noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-38000160211066096362013-02-07T19:16:00.000-05:002013-02-07T19:16:09.625-05:00Book Review of The Safe Man: A Ghost Story by Michael Connelly<br />
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<br />
<br />
I like to follow certain authors with track records of <nobr>publishing</nobr> good books. One of these authors is Michael Connelly whose Mickey Haller and Harry Bosch series take up a good portion of my eBook library. His latest work, an Amazon single called <i>The Safe Man: A Ghost Story</i>, takes him out of the mystery-thriller genre into the supernatural. The story does not disappoint.<br />
<br />
When <nobr>locksmith</nobr> Brian Holloway is called upon by a famous writer to open a safe in the writer's newly-acquired home, he sees it as just another job. Though he thinks it odd that the owner wants him to haul the safe away after he opens it, a request that sounds strangely suspicious, Holloway ignores his early warning radar and proceeds with the job. He soon realizes that the work is not going to be an easy one as the lock mechanism is so rare no information about it could be found. Not a man to give up on a challenge, he doggedly works on the overly stubborn safe, eventually managing to drill a hole through the steel membrane and slip an <nobr>eye scope</nobr> through. He sees a spectral image inside the cavity, which startles him, a feeling compounded when he senses a female presence next to him.<br />
Chalking it up to a momentary bout of paranoia, Holloway diligently works on the safe, feeling validated when he successfully jimmies it open and encounters a vacant space. Still, the strange and ghostly events in the library give him the creeps, so much so that it begins to occupy his mind. He does his own research on the safe's history and what he discovers instills fear in him, a fear exacerbated when the daughter of the man who hired him is found missing. <br />
<br />
The delivery of the narrative is vintage Michael Connelly with the use of mystery/thriller devices giving it a quick pace. In certain scenes, one can't help but break out in goose pimples as Holloway unravels the mystery surrounding the safe and the man who hired him. <br />
<br />
I enjoyed the piece very much. At just over eleven thousand words, there may not be enough meat to the bone for those with appetite for long fiction. But if you like short stories, this may be the book for you.<br />
<br />
Article first published as <a href="http://blogcritics.org/books/article/book-review-the-safe-man-a/" target="_blank">Book Review: <i>The Safe Man: A Ghost Story</i> by Michael Connelly</a> on Blogcritics<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Harry Z. Craighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08004560512528969434noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-35902826910443695642012-12-31T11:53:00.001-05:002012-12-31T11:53:18.137-05:00Mended by Angie Smith<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMGLlr6sieI5kjSanIPLlatoGr3HtgWVw6xeT_cYChJ4-BzaSzl7NiZ-0dobgb0MFNfkyDRizZyfOMknHTIX4C9lwBEyyQ8HCC8uCklLJyylR1PkoYdKe7nhHelUNI0DvmPejTc4N/s1600/mended.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMGLlr6sieI5kjSanIPLlatoGr3HtgWVw6xeT_cYChJ4-BzaSzl7NiZ-0dobgb0MFNfkyDRizZyfOMknHTIX4C9lwBEyyQ8HCC8uCklLJyylR1PkoYdKe7nhHelUNI0DvmPejTc4N/s320/mended.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
As the familiar saying goes, “Nobody’s
perfect.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While this is certainly true,
it can be easy to misinterpret this to mean that I am hopeless, a lost
cause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I’m already a failure and
nothing I do can help me, what use is there in trying?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course not one of us walking on the earth
today is perfect and we are all, in fact, broken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We struggle with shame, shortcomings, vices,
and a pile of other sins that leave us feeling like a shattered vessel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is this image that Angie Smith uses in her
devotional book <a href="http://www.dayspring.com/angie_smith_mended/?gdftrk=gdfV2942_a_7c1251_a_7c8384_a_7c9781433676604&gclid=CN6Tos-MxbQCFY1DMgodVDcAYw"><u>Mended</u></a> to represent the life of the believer who comes
to Jesus feeling destroyed, useless, and disappointing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Smith begins her book by describing
a bit about her experience of smashing a pitcher and then painstakingly
reconstructing it piece by piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
the glue had dried and its previous form achieved, Smith realized that each of
us is like the broken pitcher, imperfect and flawed but re-created in Christ
into something new.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He doesn’t magically
morph us into an earthly version of perfection, but instead meets us when the
pieces are scattered and helps us rebuild a life where his grace can be seen
through our weakness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The image of the
shattered pitcher becomes a metaphor that Smith returns to again and again
through the chapters of her book.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Each chapter is derived from Smith’s
writings on her blog, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bring the Rain</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She revises the entries into a more devotional-friendly
style so the reader isn’t left feeling like they are just scrolling through a
website.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her writing is detailed and
personal, frequently challenging the reader to thinking critically about their heart,
their struggles, their fears, and their questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She doesn’t pull any punches, to be sure.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Smith clearly experiences her
Savior and her faith in a very physical way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In the chapter entitled <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The
Scarlet Cord</i>, the author describes how she refocuses on Christ by imagining
him right in front of her and in her mind’s eye she reaches out and touches his
face, the thorns on his head, the terrible wounds that cover his body that he
endured for our sake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moments like this
were very powerful for me to read, but difficult for me to relate to, not
because it was written poorly (quite the opposite!), but because I just don’t
experience my faith in that way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the
other hand, I love the way that Smith pulls out events from the Bible such as
Rahab in Jericho, Lot’s wife, and Peter stepping out of the boat to help the
reader identify with the people who appear in God’s Word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Smith also uses several anecdotes from her
own journey, from her painful experience of losing her infant daughter to her
ability to learn a truth about God from pulling weeds in her lawn.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Angie Smith truly has a gift for
writing to women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She connects with them
with Jesus in a way that not many can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
underlined a lot of passages and made several notes in the margin to re-read
when I’m feeling insufficient, undeserving, and too broken for God to fix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I enjoyed this book very much and I
definitely recommend reading it slowly and purposefully, with a journal and a
Bible at the ready because Smith provides several opportunities for deeper
study and meditation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> As a devotional book that helps encourage a deeper, more personal relationship with Jesus, I </span></div>
<br />
would give this book 3 stars. I like it a lot, but I think it was more a stylistic disconnect that keeps me from giving it 4 stars. My learning personality just didn't jive perfectly with the way Smith teaches, but her principles are sound and her personal approach is nothing short of endearing. <br /><img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />slkooimanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10070317503342219099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-59528168421748336202012-10-07T19:44:00.001-04:002012-10-07T19:44:34.451-04:00Unleash! by Perry Noble<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSlVJespYDPdjPezC9uHHhSnkgPzRCt5tNcNGTyhJSRluK6d4wqvA" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSlVJespYDPdjPezC9uHHhSnkgPzRCt5tNcNGTyhJSRluK6d4wqvA" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="p1">
Perry Noble, senior pastor of NewSpring Church in South Carolina, challenges readers to Unleash! the life that God has in store for them and to put their past to rest. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Within his book, he explains how God's desire is to have us live our best life now by walking in His path and by letting go of a past that enslaves us. He compares all of our challenges with the story of David from the Bible. Now, most of us would dare say we have absolutely nothing in common with the same David that found favor with God. The same David that was anointed as a child, brought down a giant and became one of the most revered kings in history. But Perry specifically outlines how his struggles and ours are not so different. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Just as God chose David to be anointed, God chooses us to be His children. Just as David had to fight Goliath, the giant, so we have to fight metaphorical "giants" in our lives. God is not looking for someone who is perfect… David was far from perfect. David was a poor shepherd boy who no one ever suspected would become king. And then once king, he became an adulterer and a murderer. And yet… God found favor with him. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
In his book, Perry offers hilarious and gritty stories about his life and how he's learned these lessons. He speaks about how coming to know the Lord and Jesus has changed him and in doing so he offers hope to everyone who reads his book. Perry does not beat around the bush… he is dead set on Biblical teachings and does not care if he makes people uncomfortable about it. He wants everyone to know that the ONLY truth is Jesus. But he also wants everyone to know that God is not sitting on His throne in Heaven waiting to smite all of the sinners… He wants people to know that God is loving, compassionate and fatherly. "God is not after or begrudging submission. He is after our joy" (pg.9) </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I highly recommend this book for anyone who just can't seem to let go of their past. To anyone who thinks that God can't possibly forgive them for what they've done. To anyone who thinks that their problems are too big. To anyone who feels hopeless. Within these pages you'll learn about a Savior who's love knows no limits and who can't wait to call you His own. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I had the privilege of being a member of NewSpring church for the 3 years that I lived in South Carolina and I have never seen a pastor more captivatingly true, real and passionate about his call to ministry and Jesus. He is doing some truly incredible things across the state of South Carolina and reaching throughout the world to impact churches and people in need. You can listen to his sermons by downloading the FREE NewSpring App or by visiting <a href="http://www.newspring.cc/">www.NewSpring.cc</a></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
And don't forget to pick up a copy of his book. You'll be so glad you did!</div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15725310448387210231noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-19030098240778661952012-07-25T23:12:00.001-04:002012-07-25T23:12:12.865-04:00Gone Girl, By Gillian Flynn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Girl-Novel-Gillian-Flynn/dp/030758836X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343270202&sr=8-1&keywords=Gone+Girl" target="_blank">Gone Girl</a> seems to be a hot read this summer, as I've seen it all over the place. It's a thriller with the unusual twist that you actually know whodunnit almost from the beginning.<br />
<br />
Nick Dunne comes home on his fifth wedding anniversary to find his wife Amy missing and their house in disarray. The cops quickly turn their attention to Nick as the prime suspect. After all, in cases like these, how often is the criminal NOT the husband?<br />
<br />
Told in alternating viewpoints between Nick and Amy, the reader immediately knows that Amy is still safe -- somewhere. But where she is is a much deeper story. Over the course of the book, we learn about Nick and Amy's idyllic marriage that has somehow derailed into a terrifying game of manipulation. Why has Amy gone missing? And what punishment awaits Nick?<br />
<br />
I had high hopes for this book. A thriller that isn't your typical thriller? A twist that you know up front, but that could still lead in any number of directions? Sounds good to me. But, I finished the book feeling disappointed.<br />
<br />
The book is divided into three parts (really more like 2.5, the last part is a quick conclusion). The first part dragged for me. I'll admit, it served to throw me off the trail because it lead me away from what I thought was happening. And it did set up the rest of the story so it was a valuable part, but could have been shortened in favor of digging into the real suspense.<br />
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The second and third parts lived up to the hype, but I felt like there could have been even more thrills and twists. These parts flew very quickly, without the oh so good "slow burn" before uncovering the truth. And the end? Well, I'm still not sure how I feel about the end. I have the same complaint -- it just ended. Not an inordinate amount of suspense, and thus not a gratifying conclusion.<br />
<br />
One of the final lines is: "We (Nick & Amy) are one long frightening climax." And I suppose that's true for the book. It's all about the climax, but it's a climax that could certainly have a bit more excitement injected into it.<br />
<br />
However, the premise alone makes the book worth a read. It's hard to find a thriller with a plot that breaks the mold, and I think this one fits that bill.<br />
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3.5 stars.<br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-38120291272629640672012-07-04T22:11:00.002-04:002012-07-04T22:11:55.934-04:00Echoes From the Academy by Jeffrey Mann<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sid is sitting in his car with a bottle of vodka between his thighs and a pistol in his hand. As he looks back at the last year of his life, he can't believe how he had gotten there. How had he strayed so far? His life was alright... but now, it was a complete disaster. There's only one way out.<br />
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Sid is a good kid. He's sometimes misunderstood and misrepresented but all in all, he's a decent teenaged boy. He comes from a great family... a father that's a provider and loves his family, a mother who loves God and always listens to her children and a sister who is wicked cool and even hooks him up with her pretty friends. Life was good. But his life takes a turn when he gets kicked out of school for allegedly selling drugs... a complete misunderstanding. With few options remaining, he decided he wanted to try military school. He was ready and eager to become a man.<br />
<br />
His father reluctantly agreed, under the condition that he would attend for an entire year, no matter what. Even if it got hard, he would have to stay for a full school year. Sid accepted under those turns and was ready to start a new chapter. But when Sid got to military school, it wasn't quite what he expected. And it wasn't the strict discipline that brought him down, but he was actually fearful for his life! The events that took place within those walls were more frightening than his worse nightmares. The only thing that brought him through that tortuous year were two best friends that he made there. But even they could only help so much...<br />
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As he finds himself in that car, sorting through the details of the life he once had and the life he now had, he thinks there's only one choice now. As he remembers the pain and abuse from the past year, he thinks there's a sure way to forever forget. What will Sid choose? How will he ever get out of this mess?<br />
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Surprisingly, this is a 100% true story... not "based on a true story", but actually true. Some of the events seem so extraordinary or extreme and that's why it's so surprising and exciting to hear that it's all true! The book offers a great deal of hope for any young person coping with depression or struggling with their identity. The writing is easy flowing and fast moving... great for a YA crowd. Beware of some violent content, so lean towards the more mature side of YA.<br />
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4 Stars<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Echoes-Academy-Jeffrey-Mann/dp/1618628100/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341454245&sr=8-1&keywords=echoes+from+the+academy">Now available on Amazon!</a><br />
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<i>I received a complementary copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This is my honest opinion.</i><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15725310448387210231noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-1909574375950715762012-06-09T19:58:00.000-04:002012-06-09T19:58:14.959-04:00Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Cora arrives home from Normal School in the summer of 1913 expecting her parents to be waiting at the train station to pick her up. What is actually waiting for her is family, but not the family she was expecting. After learning about a dark family secret, Cora is given the chance of a lifetime if she's willing to leave the life she currently knows behind - the chance to be a part of a Grand Tour through Europe where she will be introduced to incredible fashions, food, culture, and people. Can she find her place in this new world without losing herself completely? <br />
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I loved this book. I read it while I was sitting by the pool and stayed by the pool long after the sun went down just so I could finish it. Cora is a great main character with a realistic mixture of humility, awe, and spunk. And with a great cast of supporting characters, especially her friend Will, the author really brings this story to life through their individual personalities. I also love the plot and the whole idea of doing a Grand Tour through Europe so maybe I just liked this book so much because I'm jealous of their opportunities. Or it's just a good book. <br />
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I really can only think of one thing that I didn't like about <em>Glamorous Illusions</em>, the fact that I didn't know it was the first in a series until the last page of the book. I was expecting the author to wrap the book up in a nice pretty package and instead, she expertly set the stage for a great series. And you better believe I will be ordering the next book in the series as soon as it's available. 5 stars <br />
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Want to know more? Check out more information and additional reviews for <em>Glamorous Illusions.</em> Did I convince you that it's worth reading? Lisa is doing a promotion during the blog tour and selling the ebook version for cheap through June - $2.99 from 6/9-6/15 and $4.99 from 6/16-6/22. And if you'd rather not buy it, Lisa is giving readers a chance to not only win her book but also to win a $350 Visa gift card. <br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<b>One "glamorous" winner will receive a "Glam Prize Pack":</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>A $350 Visa Cash Card</b> <i>(Oh ... think of what you could do: treat yourself to a mani/pedi, a fabulous new dress, dinner for two, or even a two-night escape in a lovely hotel - you're only limited by your imagination!)</i></li>
<li><b><i>Glamorous Illusions</i></b> (by Lisa Tawn Begren)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Enter today by clicking one of the icons below.</b> But hurry, the giveaway ends 6/26/12. Winner will be announced at <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/309629112464074/" target="_blank">Lisa's "Glamorous Illusions" Facebook Party on 6/27</a> <i>{Fun begins at 5pm PDT / 8pm EDT}</i></b>. Lisa will be hosting an evening of meaningful chat, fun trivia, laughter, and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and a Book Club Prize Pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club and a live chat with Lisa via video or phone.)<br />
<br />
<b><i>So grab a few of your friends and your copy of Glamorous Illusions and join Lisa on the evening of June 27th for an evening of fun.</i></b><br />
<br />
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Don't miss a moment of the fun. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/309629112464074/" target="_blank"><b>RSVP TODAY</b></a> and tell your friends via <a href="http://apps.facebook.com/sweepstakeshq/contests/239546/invites/new" target="_blank"><b>FACEBOOK</b></a> or <a href="http://promoshq.wildfireapp.com/twitter/233/contests/239546" target="_blank"><b>TWITTER</b></a> and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 27th!</div>
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<em>**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion of the book.</em> </div>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Britnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620610247395572368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-72393569485601634132012-05-29T08:00:00.000-04:002012-05-29T08:00:07.714-04:00+One, by Brian Baleno<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In <a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-Brian-Baleno/dp/061552432X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1338247568&sr=8-1" target="_blank">+ One</a>, Brian Baleno takes the reader through a modern-day love story where Jake and Kara must decide if their love can withstand the external pressures of Jake's high-powered career.<br />
<br />
I was initially drawn to the book because I lived/am living the plot. Nearly five years ago, I met a "Jake". In my case, he was an accountant instead of an investment banker, but he also dealt with the pressure-filled world of corporate mergers. One of the biggest issues in our relationship was his crazy schedule and lack of time to spend with me. <br />
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<b>Plot:</b> Since the story hit close to home, I certainly felt the plot was believable. I also appreciated its progression, and that it wasn't a predictable story that wraps things up in a nice bow. <br />
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<b>Characters:</b> Jake was likeable enough, and the reader could really feel the internal conflict between his career and his personal life. Kara, on the other hand, drove me pretty nuts. I saw a lot of myself in her (I know I whined a TON in the early stages of my relationship), but man was all her whining annoying. I felt that the true conflict in the book was less about Jake's life and his career decisions and more about how much Kara cared -- or didn't care -- about Jake. Then again, maybe that's my personal bias taking over because I know that a man can have a high-powered career and the love of his life. Kara couldn't seem to see that possibility.<br />
<br />
My biggest issue with this book was the editing. While the writing was easy to follow and dig into, there were
many passages of Jake's internal monologue that felt tangential and not
important. But overall, it was an interesting take on the standard
love story. 3 stars.<br />
<br />
<i>**While I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, the opinions shared here are all mine!**</i><br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-79018354442927850752012-05-22T22:26:00.000-04:002012-05-22T22:26:39.182-04:00The Mother Road, by Jennifer Allee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Mother-Road-ebook/dp/B007EFHQHE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1337738383&sr=8-1" target="_blank">The Mother Road</a> tells the story of Natalie, who has just discovered her husband is leaving her for another woman with whom he's fathered a child. At the same time, Natalie's father is pressuring her to visit her ailing mother, who is battling Alzheimer's.<br />
<br />
Natalie escapes the problems in her marriage by dragging her sister Lindsay on a road trip across Route 66 to visit home. Lindsay has her own set of personal issues that cloud the trip as both sisters prepare to encounter a past they've avoided for years.<br />
<br />
<b>Plot</b>: I've been interested in taking a Route 66 road trip for some time, so that initially hooked me. The scenery was a good choice by the author as it makes a nice backdrop for the sisterly reunion that is the focus of the book. I enjoyed the interplay of the sisters during their trip, and the plot moved quickly, allowing me to get to know the sisters as well as their back stories. I felt the end of the book was pretty predictable, though the author did throw one curve ball that I wasn't expecting.<br />
<br />
<b>Characters</b>: I actually found my favorite character was Lindsay. Of the two sisters, she was the most real, and I also felt her evolution throughout the book was the most visible. I found Natalie to be a frustrating narrator at times when her judgmental nature got the better of her. Sure, she underwent her own changes as she came to terms with her divorce, but I didn't feel this evolution was as well described by the author to warrant her overly righteous attitude through 90 percent of the book. <br />
<br />
Overall, the book had a nice message and interesting characters with a bit of depth. 3.5 stars.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>** I received a free copy of the book for the purposes of this review, but my opinions are my own.**</i><br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />A Super Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12366523878368643136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-71067879856932574552012-05-22T22:09:00.006-04:002012-05-22T22:09:41.975-04:00This Means War<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8kLrETSKM0YEpg6Rls65qLnEalnqgeFVjiAhBnQ0SJjYWaBsTbBEJNmJgObpojCv3fBelOgq25QgOxsFdTAobajaGeMiAap4991yWcAsfU8CtERk7FhdY2R7D11Vo3HoMxQrQ15I2EE/s1600/tmw_dvd_370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8kLrETSKM0YEpg6Rls65qLnEalnqgeFVjiAhBnQ0SJjYWaBsTbBEJNmJgObpojCv3fBelOgq25QgOxsFdTAobajaGeMiAap4991yWcAsfU8CtERk7FhdY2R7D11Vo3HoMxQrQ15I2EE/s320/tmw_dvd_370.jpg" width="259" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Corbel","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Reese Witherspoon,
Chris Pine and Tom Hardy Form the </span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Corbel","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Perfect Love
Triangle in this Action Packed Comedy </span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Corbel","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;">Available on Blu-ray,
DVD and Digital Download May 22</span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 125%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 125%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Corbel","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 125%;">About the Movie</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 125%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Corbel","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 125%;">They are the CIA’s best, trained for
any situation…except one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Twentieth
Century Fox Home Entertainment plays the ultimate spy game as two best friends
fight for the right of one woman’s hand in <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">THIS MEANS WAR, </i></b>released to Blu-ray,
DVD and Digital Download today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Starring Academy Award<sup>®</sup> winner Reese Witherspoon* (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Walk the Line</i>), Chris Pine (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Star Trek</i>) and Tom Hardy (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Dark Knight Rises</i>), the laugh-out-loud
comedy gets even better on Blu-ray with three alternate endings that answer the
question – what if she chose the other guy?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 125%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 125%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Corbel","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 125%;">The world's deadliest CIA operatives,
FDR Foster (Pine) and Tuck (Hardy) are inseparable partners and best friends
until they fall for the same woman (Witherspoon).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having once helped bring down entire enemy
nations, they are now employing their incomparable skills and an endless array of
high-tech gadgetry against their greatest nemesis – each other.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 125%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 125%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Corbel","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 125%;">My Review</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 125%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Corbel","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 125%;">This is one of the best romantic comedies I've seen in quite a while. I was nervous that it might end up being a little cheesy, but it was actually really funny and I loved the chemistry between all three of the main characters. And it's not just a chick flick, I went to see it with my two brothers (20 and 30) and there was enough comedy and action to make them both enjoy it just as much as I did. Highly recommended for anyone who likes romantic comedies or watching things be blown up. </span></div>
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Britnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620610247395572368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-53301726158533552722012-05-21T13:18:00.000-04:002012-05-21T13:18:30.074-04:00Prison Nation by Jenni Merritt<a href="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQIMulqR76AkmeiX3eO7mGgbpbNvXlwRKG52lIjNZc_3JUKdAxO" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQIMulqR76AkmeiX3eO7mGgbpbNvXlwRKG52lIjNZc_3JUKdAxO" /></a>Millie 942B has been in prison her entire life. Born to Lifers, she knows nothing of the outside world... only what the prison school has taught her. She lives in Nation, formerly known as The United States in the 2020's. <br />
<br />
The Nation has strict laws that are harshly enforced in order to keep the outside safe and structured. As a result, the country had to build four mega prisons on each corner of the country to hold everyone. There are more people in than out. <br />
<br />
But prison life is all Millie has ever known. As she approaches her 18th birthday, she has to face the reality of leaving her parents and the only life she understands. She has to prove herself a good citizen in front of a panel which includes a judge, the warden, her psychiatrist, a guard and her future employer... they must all come to a consensus that she'll be "the good... the strong" and an asset to Nation. <br />
<br />
But what she finds upon her release is not quite what she expected. Life is not as just as she thought. Lies are covered and corruption is king. Seems like whether in or out, you're always in a prison. Will Millie find safety and finally be free?<br />
<br />
This book was a lot like 1984. It was a quick read and really good for YA... high-schoolers would eat this up! I enjoyed this book very much, but sometimes the writing was a little repetative and the story became a little tooooo coincidental... it all tied up nicely, but that would never happen in real life. Overall, if you enjoy dystopian fiction, pick it up! It wont disappoint!<br />
<br />
3.5 stars<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15725310448387210231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-77559547224657693162012-05-21T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-21T00:00:01.728-04:00The Power of Habit by Charles DuhiggI am a self-help junkie. I love to read books that promise they can change my life if I just follow a few easy steps. So I'll admit I originally agreed to read <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FThe-Power-Habit-Business-ebook%2Fdp%2FB0055PGUYU&ei=ym25T6eEB6qX6QH5sJDLCg&usg=AFQjCNHrMYJJHOKWNcRCrOVAhCNNc-GIHg&sig2=Oev4lXur93pLuG94_2qQ5g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>The Power of Habit</i></a> because I thought it was another self-help book that could make me become a better person. It wasn't. It was even better.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGE9na_9_NZz70KM44ze9wisCmJU3grIJ3t543pD3Hpx5ooZ7pMyFJSGCh5dCAQZBw8BuamYR1PmKnCbQYU5ZHT1Ly94pBHgbjirTYTrY4iuJe1rCVxGdnTX_TRWMITNXAnnMHhyphenhyphenp2io/s1600/habit.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGE9na_9_NZz70KM44ze9wisCmJU3grIJ3t543pD3Hpx5ooZ7pMyFJSGCh5dCAQZBw8BuamYR1PmKnCbQYU5ZHT1Ly94pBHgbjirTYTrY4iuJe1rCVxGdnTX_TRWMITNXAnnMHhyphenhyphenp2io/s200/habit.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FThe-Power-Habit-Business-ebook%2Fdp%2FB0055PGUYU&ei=ym25T6eEB6qX6QH5sJDLCg&usg=AFQjCNHrMYJJHOKWNcRCrOVAhCNNc-GIHg&sig2=Oev4lXur93pLuG94_2qQ5g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>The Power of Habit</i></a> is a book written about the science behind habits - what habits are, why they exist, and how they can changed. It talks not only about habits in individuals but also about habits in successful organizations and how organizations use the science of habits to be more successful. Do you ever wonder how Target can send you coupons for the exact thing you need at the store or why you find yourself drawn to the Cinnabon counter in a mall? This book explains those ideas and best of all, it explains how you can change habits.<br />
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Has <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FThe-Power-Habit-Business-ebook%2Fdp%2FB0055PGUYU&ei=ym25T6eEB6qX6QH5sJDLCg&usg=AFQjCNHrMYJJHOKWNcRCrOVAhCNNc-GIHg&sig2=Oev4lXur93pLuG94_2qQ5g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this book</a> changed my life? No. Could it? Yes, I do believe it could if I followed the principles laid out so simply in the book. Regardless of if you want to change habits in your own life, this book is definitely worth reading. It was fascinating to learn about the science of habits and how I can drive myself home when I couldn't give someone directions to my apartment to save my life. This book was filled with so many incredible insights and I highly recommend it to anyone. 5 stars. <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Britnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620610247395572368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-8881130352579570032012-05-20T23:55:00.000-04:002012-05-20T23:56:38.054-04:00TIME's Disasters That Shook the World<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/1603202471/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="AmazonHelp"><img alt="TIME Disasters That Shook the World" border="0" height="200" id="prodImage" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51A4T8gNG4L._SL500_AA300_.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Reviewing <a href="http://www.amazon.com/TIME-Disasters-That-Shook-World/dp/1603202471/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1337571663&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Disasters That Shook the World</a> is an interesting experience. I think humans have a fascination with disasters and while you can't really "enjoy" reading about them, this publication by Time made the learning about them interesting albiet brief. <br />
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As a history teacher, I know how important it is to talk about accomplishments <em>and</em> failures. History is made of mistakes and, really, we should be glad for them as these disasters shaped future safety measures and awareness. The subjects include Disasters at Sea, Disasters in the Air, and Fire Disasters amoung others. <br />
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The articles include many pictures and are a general overview. Of course there is more to each of these stories but as far as a 'magazine-esque' book goes, I was pleased. If anything it made me go further and look up some more about some of the stories. <br />
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I recommend this for anyone intersted in history and anyone looking for a quick interesting read.<br />
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4 Stars.<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-65812066731910049832012-05-20T17:57:00.000-04:002012-05-20T17:57:42.065-04:00Baroness by Susan May WarrenA coming of age story set in the Roaring Twenties, <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFoQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.susanmaywarren.com%2Fbooks%2Fbaroness%2F&ei=fWi5T-HlAY7mggey1v28Cg&usg=AFQjCNGN4XiOQbABKJy22duUSjYR5xZerA&sig2=-grrhnuHATJjMmYaNP0rAg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>Baroness </i></a>tells the story of two daughters of fortune determined to follow their dreams no matter what happens on the way. Rosie is determined to become a star on the newly energy silver screen and all Lilly wants to do is return to Montana to live on the ranch her family left so long ago. Neither realized the pathway to their dreams would be filled with so much pain, heartache, and of course, men.<br />
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This book was just okay. I started out really liking Lilly, the sort of nerdy, head in the clouds woman who was trying to avoid the incoming flapper era her cousin Rosie was trying to force on her. But I quickly found myself feeling that both women were both extremely ignorant and spoiled, shown time after time in their actions, and I just couldn't relate as they both did things in their lives that intentionally hurt those that loved them just to chase after a guy who didn't care about them. The plus side is that the writing was good, the characters were well developed (I just didn't particularly care for them), and the story is an interesting and unpredictable one. 3 stars. <br />
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Interested in reading this book? Check out other reviews from the <a href="http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/13456521/baroness" target="_blank">Baroness blog tour</a>. <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Britnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12620610247395572368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-5218884347006785442012-05-16T23:35:00.003-04:002012-05-16T23:35:39.241-04:00The Orchid House, by Lucinda Riley<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizIgcTbvpKeltQfhB-opswzRv-6yO7b6T0mUd0wb6ZnGGlN8Th_ER0tzztW2821BjHbcp-n7ahzdTtt6nkJGGdy6CCVetHAq8tb3E_iM9FQE4kkJegQT0IzpmCecCa6JvLW7ZGk32tAiyP/s1600/OrchidHouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizIgcTbvpKeltQfhB-opswzRv-6yO7b6T0mUd0wb6ZnGGlN8Th_ER0tzztW2821BjHbcp-n7ahzdTtt6nkJGGdy6CCVetHAq8tb3E_iM9FQE4kkJegQT0IzpmCecCa6JvLW7ZGk32tAiyP/s320/OrchidHouse.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizIgcTbvpKeltQfhB-opswzRv-6yO7b6T0mUd0wb6ZnGGlN8Th_ER0tzztW2821BjHbcp-n7ahzdTtt6nkJGGdy6CCVetHAq8tb3E_iM9FQE4kkJegQT0IzpmCecCa6JvLW7ZGk32tAiyP/s1600/OrchidHouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Listen up, Downton Abbey fans -- or really any fan of British historical fiction. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Orchid-House-A-Novel/dp/1451655789/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1337224224&sr=8-1" target="_blank">The Orchid House</a> may be for you.<br />
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The parallels to the PBS hit series are certainly what sucked me in. Old estate, big family with lots of heirs and plenty of secrets. After finishing, I don't know that I can put it quite on par with the writing and characters at Downton, but it's certainly similar enough to keep you interested<b>.</b><br />
<b><br />Plot</b>: Julia is struggling with grief after the sudden loss of her husband and son, so she leaves her home in France and heads to a small cottage in the English countryside where she grew up. She soon meets Kit Crawford who owns Wharton Park, an old estate that once thrived but is now crumbling and up for auction. Amid the relics on the old estate, Kit finds a diary belonging to Julia's grandfather. The diary leads Julia to seek out her grandmother to learn the history of her family, and ultimately Wharton Park as a whole.<br />
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The novel alternates between present-day England and WWII England, where the men of Wharton Park are soon off to fight in Southeast Asia. The stories intertwine with themes of love, loss, and secrets long held.<br />
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I liked the plot well enough, though it was a slow start for me. There were also a few twists that caught me off guard, but an equal amount that were fairly predictable. <b> </b><br />
<b><br />Characters</b>: Julia and Kit form the backbone of the story, with Julia's grandmother Elsie leading them into the past. Julia was likeable enough, and her grandmother proved to be a worthy storyteller. Alternating story lines between present and past kept me interested in all of the characters and their respective arcs. Kit had potential, but some of his dialogue was just a bit too over the top. Too formal, yet also erring on the cheesy side.<br />
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Overall, I enjoyed the plot and most of the characters. But, some of the dialogue and plot points left me wishing for a little more depth. 3.5 stars <i> </i><br />
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<i>**I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but my opinions are my own.**</i><br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />A Super Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12366523878368643136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-47158825684662203132012-05-11T09:30:00.000-04:002012-05-11T09:30:01.597-04:00Mom Connection by Tracey Bianchi<br />
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTyFJEjAJ55UbPjjfY3umNVdGMUiRX_aBF0iawyb3B0sKL13yQQ" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTyFJEjAJ55UbPjjfY3umNVdGMUiRX_aBF0iawyb3B0sKL13yQQ" /></a>Being a mom to a young child can be so hard. I know, I go through it every day. When your day in and day out consists of a rigorous schedule that you must keep in order to maintain your sanity, life can become monotonous. Daily tasks include feeding- sometimes force feeding, changing diapers, making potty runs, changing clothes- sometimes 3 times a day, wiping noses, wiping hands, filling sippy cups, cleaning spills, buckling car seats, singing the ABC's- again and again and again, forcing nap time, giving baths, making dinner, watching Mickey Mouse Club House- again and again and again... ok, you get the picture. Here's where some of you scoff and say, "that's not so bad". Yeah, you're right, it's pretty great! <br />
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BUT!!! It's easy to become disconnected, isolated and depressed. How does this happen with so much activity and responsibilities every day? It's easy when the only person you talk to ALL day EVERY day is a 2 year old. When all your friends are working or not yet moms and when your husband comes home from a long day at work and doesn't want to hear about the latest diaper dilema, your life becomes very lonely. <br />
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That's what <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mom-Connection-Creating-Relationships-Motherhood/dp/0800721152">Mom Connection by Tracey Bianchi </a>is all about. How to get our groove back... our rhythm. How to see the need to connect with other people and take it! How to step out of our comfort zones and remember that we CAN'T walk this path alone! By nature we are relational... women especially! <br />
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Tracey splits her book into 3 sections that each focus on a different area of our life as a mom in order to help us get that rhythm back on track. The first section teaches us to let go of the Mom-petition and realize that we need one another for connection. We learn that our weaknesses and our strengths don't have to divide us, but can uplift us and bring us closer together. In the second section, she discusses all the people around us that move to our groove... our families, our extended families, our friends, our spouses and even our communities. And in the final section, she really challenges us to reach out and help others to find their rhythms too. <br />
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I LOVED this book! I laughed out loud, I cried unashamedly, I sometimes looked over my shoulder to see where the hidden camera was... because seriously, some of this could have been written by ME! It just really goes to show what an amazing connector Tracey is! She's a mom just like us... she knows what we struggle with daily... she knows what our greatest fears and failures are... and she's not afraid to call us out on it! She uplifted me more than once and I would say, "HECK YES!" to her words of affirmation. <br />
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If you're a mom to a preschooler and you're feeling disconnected, you NEED to pick up this book and reclaim your rhythm! <br />
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5 Stars!<br />
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<b>I am giving away a FREE copy of this book on my personal blog, so please follow <a href="http://www.tableforfour-nicole.blogspot.com/">THIS LINK</a> to enter. (Review is the same, just scroll to the bottom for giveaway rules).</b><br />
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<i>I received a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of this review... this is my honest opinon</i><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15725310448387210231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-72779449460590951052012-05-03T21:37:00.001-04:002012-05-03T21:37:06.785-04:00Heart of the Matter, by Emily Giffen<br />
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I really dig Emily Giffen. It started with Something Borrowed, but I also really enjoyed Something Blue. For me, the series was unique because Giffen wrote each book using the same basic plot, but from the differing perspectives of the two main characters.<br />
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After reading those, some of Giffen's other books, and now the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Heart-of-the-Matter-ebook/dp/B003JTHZ48/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1336094365&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Heart of the Matter</a>, I've decided that Giffen excels at character development.<br />
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<b>Plot</b>: Tessa is a wife and newly minted stay at home mother of two with a busy life in her suburban community. Her husband Nick seems to be perfect -- handsome, kind, and a pediatric surgeon. But when he meets Valerie, the single mother of one of his patients, things change. The central plot in enhanced with great supporting characters, like the suburban queen bees written in true "desperate housewives" style, and a sweet little boy who's caught in the middle.<br />
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Each chapter alternates between Tessa and Valerie's perspectives, illustrating both sides of a very complex story.<br />
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<b>Characters</b>: As I said, this is where Giffen shines. I love that she alternates perspectives, and that she can make it happen with such ease. As a reader, it keeps me interested -- just when I'd hit a critical point with one character, the perspective would change. But it'd only serve to keep me reading. In addition to making the book a page turner, the differing perspectives makes it hard to choose a side. It makes you see the whole story.<br />
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<b>Overall</b>: In my opinion, it's rare for a book to keep me neutral. To not hand me the protagonist and antagonist in a neatly wrapped package. To make me assess the facts and make my own decision as to who's the "good guy". Giffen's books do this and for that, I'll keep reading. 5 stars.<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />A Super Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12366523878368643136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-6361444061189540842012-05-03T21:01:00.001-04:002012-05-03T21:01:39.623-04:0050 Shades of Grey, by E.L. James<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You guys, I don't think we could be considered a legit book blog if we didn't review this book. Or, maybe we could call ourselves "above it", but I know I at least am not above a little smut now and again.<br />
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So, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fifty-Shades-Grey-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B007J4T2G8/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1336092249&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Fifty Shades of Grey</a>. One day, I'd never heard of it and then like lightening it was everywhere. I mean, literally, it was overnight. And it all happened about the time I was trying to decide what to load on my Nook for my tropical honeymoon. Given the plot, this particular book seemed quite appropriate -- and it didn't disappoint.<br />
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<b>Plot</b>: Let's face it, this won't win the Pulitzer for its plot line. The book is basically sex in print, with the occasional side line in between. But, there is a common plot line that is every so slightly superior to your run-of-the-mill erotica plot. And it doesn't even involve a sexy secretary or hot pizza delivery boy! Already it's a step above the rest.<br />
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Anastasia is on the cusp of graduating college and being on her own. As a favor to her roommate, she conducts an interview of a local CEO, Christian Grey. Intrigued by him, she is surprised when he pursues her. Over the course of the book, she learns Christian is hiding a dark secret and she must make the decision whether to fall down the rabbit hole with him -- or rise above and move on with her life.<br />
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See? It's not a totally lame plot! There's lots of agonizing on Anastasia's part, and how Christian finally hooks her is interesting enough to entertain me between the really good parts that only serve to get you hot and bothered. (Like I said, PERFECT honeymoon/vacation read.)<br />
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<b>Characters</b>: Shockingly, I actually liked the characters. Anastasia intrigued me. Christian intrigued me. The two of them together and their interactions (the non-sexual ones!) intrigued me. Who woulda thought?!<br />
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<b>Overall</b>: I'll be honest. It's not literary genius. You pick book this up for the wow factor. It'll make you simultaneously cringe and think "hmmmm..." You pick this book up to add a little excitement to your life. And it will. But, you'll also enjoy the underlying story, however faint it may be. 4 stars.<br />
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P.S. -- I was pretty clueless on the premise, so when Christian starts talking about his "dark secret", I was afraid this was going to be another vampire book. After all, it started out as Twilight fan fiction. But, I promise you, no vampires make an appearance. At least not yet, there are two more books I have to read.<br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />A Super Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12366523878368643136noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-87125802759353953802012-05-03T20:38:00.001-04:002012-05-03T20:39:46.230-04:00Amped, by Douglas Richards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/AMPED-The-WIRED-Sequel-ebook/dp/B007PRE5IE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1336090629&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Amped</a>, by Douglas Richards is the sequel to <a href="http://booknookclub.blogspot.com/2011/09/wired-by-douglas-e-richards.html" target="_blank">Wired</a>, which I reviewed last fall. I recall finding Wired a fast-paced thriller and while Amped has its moments, I think I may have liked the first installment better.<br />
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<b>Plot</b>: Amped picks up where Wired left off. David Desh and Kira are now married and living off the grid with some of their closest allies. They continue to use Kira's special pills that, when taken, enhance a person's brain so they can think -- and accomplish -- unthinkable tasks and problems.<br />
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The crew of scientists, techno-geniuses, and former military ops are very careful about this use of this "miracle drug", trying their best to ensure it doesn't fall into the wrong hands. But, they soon find someone is out to get them and there's a global threat that only their enhanced minds can neutralize. Along the way, Kira and David also question their own relationship, as information about their respective pasts are revealed.<br />
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<b>Characters</b>: I like the characters just fine; though they aren't my most favorite characters in literature. David seems a bit more "with it" and less easily duped than he did in the first book. And the affable hacker, Matt, is entertaining.<br />
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<b>Overall</b>: I had trouble wading through the "science" of Wired, and I had the same difficulty, if not more so, with Amped. And I'm still not totally convinced Kira is one of the good ones. But, I guess I'll just have to wait for a third installment to find out! Given all the technical aspects, you'd likely enjoy this if you're into sci-fi and looking for something with a twist. 3 stars.<br />
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<i>**I received a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes. But, my thoughts are my own.** </i><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />A Super Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12366523878368643136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-40592360637800161702012-05-02T15:00:00.002-04:002012-05-02T15:00:47.815-04:00Heft by Liz Moore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Heft-A-Novel-Liz-Moore/dp/0393081508/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1335985073&sr=8-1">Heft, by Liz Moore</a>, is told from alternating points of views of two very different characters:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a 550, shy, shut-in, and a talented high school athlete who takes care of his alcoholic mother. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This book was a very quick read and the two stories flowed naturally together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moore does an excellent job at distinguishing the voices of the two different characters (although Kel, the teenager, is occasionally written with a higher level of vocabulary and poetic expression than could be expected).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">While I did enjoy the book as I read it, the ease of emotional healing that both characters undergo seems too…easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was little self reflection and it seemed to take no time at all for the characters to undergo major emotional breakthroughs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bottom line—this book was sweet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The characters were quirky and it is worth the read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think it would be a great read for high school students.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4 stars.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I received a free copy of this book for the purpose of review.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are my honest thoughts and opinions.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" /><br />Beth C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00195383682563841514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589462943899657898.post-82525677237654382172012-05-01T10:30:00.000-04:002012-05-02T01:39:13.035-04:00Flat Spin by David Freed<i>Flat Spin</i>, scheduled for release today, is a captivating mystery thriller written by Pulitzer Prize winning journalist David Freed, who covered the Rodney King riots, Desert Storm and other important events in history. The following is a summary, courtesy of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Flat-Spin-David-Freed/dp/1579622720/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1333561556&sr=8-1">Amazon</a> because it is much better than I can provide myself, of Freed's new thriller.<br />
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Based in sunny Rancho Bonita - "California's Monaco" as the city's
moneyed minions like to call it - Cordell Logan is a literate, sardonic
flight instructor and aspiring Buddhist with dwindling savings and a
shadowy past. When his beautiful ex-wife, Savannah, shows up out of the
blue to tell him that her husband has been murdered in Los Angeles,
Logan is quietly pleased. Savannah's late husband, after all, is Arlo
Echevarria, the man she left Logan for.<br />
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Logan and Echevarria were
once comrades-in-arms assigned to a top-secret military assassination
team known as "Alpha." The only problem is, the LAPD can find no record
of Echevarrias ever having toiled for Uncle Sam. Savannah wants Logan to
tell the police what he knows. At first he refuses, but then, relying
on his small, aging airplane, the "Ruptured Duck," and the skills he
honed working for Alpha, Logan doggedly hunts Echevarria's killer.<br />
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His
trail takes him from the glitzy Las Vegas Strip to the most dangerous
ghettos of inner-city Oakland, from darkened, Russian Mafia haunts in
West Los Angeles to the deserts of Arizona. But that's the least of his
problems. It is his love-hate relationship with Savannah, a woman Logan
continues to pine for in spite of himself, that threatens to consume
him.<br />
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I personally read <i>Flat Spin</i> in one night and I really enjoyed it. The characters were captivating and there were some laugh out loud lines, which I loved. Logan is a witty and charming character who I greatly enjoyed. I especially loved his landlady, Mrs. Schmulowitz, who seems to be the exact kind of person I want to live next to for the sheer entertainment of an eccentric elderly woman. Mrs. Schmulowitz easily became my favorite character and Freed made her an entertaining character that added to the story in a fun and light way without taking away from the thrill of a crime novel. <br />
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I truly enjoyed the book and liked the story a lot. However, I must admit that there was way too much unnecessary vulgar language. I hit my limit of allowable language way too early in the book and it didn't get better. It could have easily been left out and the novel would be better without it. I enjoyed the book, but due to my distaste for the over-abundance of cursing, I can only give the book 3 1/2 stars.<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review.</span><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://craftyhippodesigns.webs.com/BookNookClub/Signature.png" />Kaylynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01001000146946149269noreply@blogger.com0