Showing posts with label Reviewed by Nicole. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reviewed by Nicole. Show all posts

October 7, 2012

Unleash! by Perry Noble


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. 

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. 

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.  

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)  

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.  

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 www.NewSpring.cc

And don't forget to pick up a copy of his book.  You'll be so glad you did!


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Reviewed by Nicole at 7:44 PM 4 comments
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July 4, 2012

Echoes From the Academy by Jeffrey Mann

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.

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.

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...

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?

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.

4 Stars

Now available on Amazon!

I received a complementary copy of this book for the purpose of this review.  This is my honest opinion.

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Reviewed by Nicole at 10:11 PM 7 comments
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May 21, 2012

Prison Nation by Jenni Merritt

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.

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.

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.

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?

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!

3.5 stars
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Reviewed by Nicole at 1:18 PM 2 comments
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May 11, 2012

Mom Connection by Tracey Bianchi


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!

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.

That's what Mom Connection by Tracey Bianchi 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!

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.

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.

If you're a mom to a preschooler and you're feeling disconnected, you NEED to pick up this book and reclaim your rhythm!

5 Stars!

I am giving away a FREE copy of this book on my personal blog, so please follow THIS LINK to enter.  (Review is the same, just scroll to the bottom for giveaway rules).

I received a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of this review... this is my honest opinon


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Reviewed by Nicole at 9:30 AM 0 comments
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April 15, 2012

Defending Jacob by William Landay

Note: I listened to the audio version of this book.

Andrew Barber is a DA in a small New England town.  He is meticulous with his job, a killer in the courtroom and confident about his abilities.  When news of a murder comes in, it is his job to investigate and create a case from the state against a defendant.

One April morning, news of a murder came in, and Andrew began to do his job as he always did.  Only this time, things were a little different... the victim was a 14 year old boy, Ben, who happened to be a classmate of his son's.  Instead of passing the case onto another DA, Andrew became involved in unwinding this mystery.

Ben Riffcan, the victim, was walking to school that morning through Cold Springs Park, when he was confronted and stabbed three times in the chest.  There are no clues as to who did it.  No one saw anything.  Only one person heard someone say "Stop, you're hurting me" but didn't actually see anything.  The only lead the cops have is small and weak... one bloody fingerprint located on the inside of Ben's jacket.  A fingerprint, belonging to none other than Andrew Barber's very own son, Jacob.

As the evidence begins to stack up against Jacob, it seems only Andrew truly believes in his son's innocence.  The evidence, along with a particularly bloody family history, makes this situation completely hopeless.

This book is breathtakingly good!  And, as I listened to it, rather than read it, it was even better!  The narrator, Grover Gardner is truly spectacular.  He makes you hold your breath!  The thing is, you want to believe Jacob didn't do it, but even YOU begin to doubt.  And it has an ending you NEVER EVER guess or believe.

5 stars!

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Reviewed by Nicole at 10:10 PM 3 comments
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March 28, 2012

Superbia 2 by Bernard Schaffer

If you haven't read anything by up and coming writer Schaffer, you really should.  Like now.

Back in January I reviewed Superbia (find the review here) and I knew there would have to be more to the story.  I never expected Schaffer to whip up something so quickly and for it to be of such excellent quality!  I was ecstatic when he contacted me about reviewing the sequel.

This story continues right about where the last one left off.  Frank is back on the streets, seeking drug pushers, fighting the bad guys and trying to be the father and husband he can.  Unfortunately, the new Chief of Police, Erinnyes, is a real SOB and doesn't let him breathe.  On top of all his detective duties, Frank is thrown into patrol too.  Frank has to find a way to keep up with all of his responsibilities and fight the office politics that keep pushing him around every corner.  As the pressure cooker heats up, Frank needs to find a way out... but it isn't the way you'll EVER expect!

I loved so much about this book. The writing was easy to read and flowing.  The characters each had unique voices that I felt I could actually hear.  I felt like I was building a relationship with Frank and I wanted him to succeed even when it wasn't right.  This story is unique from most crime fiction books. The crime is only a secondary plot.  The primary theme of these books is the life of a police officer... the day-to-day and the office BS that comes along with it.  I really respect the honesty in the grit.  Schaffer isn't afraid to show the ugly side.

Schaffer is quickly becoming my "go-to" writer.  I can EXPECT him to deliver a killer book.  His writing is effortless and seamless... never pretentious or fluffy.  He enjoys playing with his readers... he brings you so far and then leaves you hanging, which always makes me scream, "WHHHAAT?!?!".  This makes me both love him, and want to punch him in the face a little.  But that makes for some excellent writing!

5 Stars.

**Also, don't miss out, Superbia 2 is on listed as FREE, TODAY only on Amazon (for Kindle).  click here!  And Superbia (1) is only 99 cents! click here! **

I received a complementary copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This is my honest opinion. 
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March 18, 2012

Felix Shill Deserves To Die by Gareth Busson

Felix is a married man with a daughter and a steady well paying job.  But everything is falling apart.  His life is miserable.  His wife wants out, his daughter is on her side and his boss is a total self-righteous ass.

He's running late to catch a plane for a business meeting.  As he runs into the terminal, he feels the onset signs of a seizure approaching.  He leaves the terminal, runs into the bathroom and proceeds to seize and pass out.  When he awakes he takes himself to a nearby hotel and sleeps off the effects for the next day.  He wakes up knowing that he's lost his job... and if he's lost his job, he's sure to have lost his family too.

But then he turns on the news... and what he sees, blows his mind.  The plane he was just about to board, was the target of a terrorist attack and had been blown to pieces, leaving no survivors.  And everyone thought he was on this plane.  So everyone thought Felix Shill was dead.

Over the next two days, Felix finds himself in one dangerous situation after another as he questions his existence and purpose.  Maybe his family is better off without him?  Maybe there's always been a reason why everyone in his life leaves him eventually?  Maybe he's cheated death one too many times?

This book is extremely well written.  The characters each speak with such distinct voices and the dialogue is often hilarious.  This book reminded me somewhat of Fear And Loathing in Las Vegas because some of it was trippy and unbelievable!  Be warned, there is a lot of drug use and profanity in this book... but it is essential for Felix's demise.  While I enjoyed the book, I felt it was a tad too long and depressing.  But an interesting read, none-the-less.

3 Stars

I was given a complementary copy of this book for the purpose of my honest and unbiased opinion. 


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Reviewed by Nicole at 8:54 PM 0 comments
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March 8, 2012

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

Margaret Macy is a lady in London, in the early 1800's.  She lives in her manor with her mother, step father and step father's nephew, Marcus.  Her younger brother and sister are away at school until break.

Margaret is accustomed to living a fine life.  Although her late father was only a minister, they had always had money and lived well.  Until recently.  On Margaret's 25th birthday, she would come into a great amount of money that had been set aside for her by her aunt.  And her step-father knew this.

In his attempt to keep the money within the family and reap the benefits of the fortune, he insisted on his nephew, Marcus marrying her.  Although Mararet had had many suitors in the past and even came close to marrying one, a Nathaniel Upchurch, she decided she would not marry anyone and support herself fully.  Marrying Marcus was not in the plans.  But her step-father was insistant and one day Margaret overheard a plot to make them have to marry each other.  And so, she fled.

She decided to try her luck as a maid... but where would she end up?  At Fairbourne Hall... the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, her former suitor and the man she rudely rejected in favor of his older and more dashing brother, Lewis.  Luckily, she had disguised herself.  She hid her blonde hair under a ratty brown wig, her white eyebrows with some black soot and put a pair of spectacles on her nose.  And with her maid clothes, fake accent and new name, Nora, no one suspected... for a while at least.  But how can a lady of privilage learn to be a maid?  How could she stand the hours of hard labor?  How could she lower herself to such standards?  Read and see how Margaret's appearance isn't the only thing that changes.

I thouroughly enjoyed this book.  It was so clever and well written.  The whole time I was holding my breath just waiting for her to be discovered.  And watching her change was really beautiful.  The book is also filled with insight of what life was like behind the scenes... as a maid.  And it wasn't always pretty!  The only thing I didn't love about the book was that I felt that at times it moved a little too slowly... there was a lot of day-to-day.  But when the action arrose, it was brilliant!

4 Stars!

I received a complementary copy of this book for the purpose of this review. 


Now for some GIVEAWAYS!!!

Enter Today and Save the Date-3/15!
Don't miss the perfect blend of Regency-era romance and mystery in The Maid of Fairbourne Hall! Grab a copy and then be sure to enter Julie's Kindle Fire Giveaway and RSVP for her Author Chat party on Facebook! Swoon.

One fortunate winner will receive:
  • A brand new Kindle Fire
  • A Julie Klassen Library (The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Silent Governess)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/14/12. Winner will be announced at Julie's Fairbourne Hall Book Chat Party on 3/15. Julie will be hosting an evening of chat, trivia and a sneak peek of her next book - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books and a Downton Abbey Prize Pack (Seasons 1 and 2)!

So grab your copy of The Maid of Fairbourne Hall and join Julie and friends on the evening of March 15th for a book chat party.
Enter via Twitter
Enter via E-mail Enter via Facebook
Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on March 15th!
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Reviewed by Nicole at 10:00 AM 2 comments
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February 29, 2012

The Social Media Mind by David Amerland

The Social Media Mind dives into the ways that social media has influenced, impacted and changed marketing, businesses and the way we think forever.

Amerland goes into specific detail about how using Google, Twitter and Facebook has made a huge difference in the way businesses are run now.  He talks about how consumers have changed over the years and want to buy from a company that has a face and a story.  Companies that utilize these forms of social media marketing to the highest potential gain the trust and loyalty of their consumers.

He provides interesting tid-bits of the way social media, when used correctly, has helped boost a companies reputation and revenues.  On the same token, when used incorrectly or not at all, how those companies have struggled with image and acceptability.  He uses large companies as examples, such as Gap, Blackberry, Starbucks and Ford.

He includes vital events that have most recently taken place and have changed the way that social media works.  For example, Facebook's last conference, f8, which revealed Facebook's future plans as well as the recent addition of the timeline.  Or Google's effort to match Facebook in the media world with their social networking site, Google+. Or the Occupy Wallstreet movement.  It was interesting to learn the back-story and inside scoop on these events.

However, for all the "interesting tid-bits" that this book contained, the writing was sub-par with lots of rambling.  It was also much too long for this subject and did not really offer any new or "A-Ha" moments that differ from other areas on this subject.  The author also very obviously favors Google over Facebook, and it was annoying to have his biased opinion.  I also fear that this book will no longer be relevant within the next 6 months.  The internet, social media and social networks are changing by the day... in 6 months time, this book will be outdated.

I picked up this book because in the description it boasted on being able to help give practical tools for getting heard.  I have a little personal family blog that I'd like to see grow (shameless plug, I know) and I was looking for more tools on exactly how to do that.  This book did not provide me with anything which would support that.

Who then is this book good for?  People who are interested in learning "tid-bits" behind monster companies such as Google and Facebook.  And small businesses who have not ventured into social media marketing and want to understand why it's so important in today's world.

2 Stars
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion... this is it. 

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Reviewed by Nicole at 2:13 PM 1 comments
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February 28, 2012

Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua

If you're not familiar with the title of this book, I'm sure the story will ring a few bells.  It was talked about, gawked at and criticized all over the news upon it's release in early 2011.

In Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, Amy Chua describes the differences between Chinese parenting and "Western" parenting.  And controversial, it definitely is.

Amy is a first generation American who was raised by strict Chinese parents.  She explains how she was brought up to respect her parents, work hard and succeed no matter what.  She married a Jewish American man and together they had two daughters, Sophie and Lulu.  Amy decided that she was going to raise her daughters in the traditional "Chinese" sense, as she was raised.

Although Amy is a Harvard law grad, professor at Yale, published author and distinguished professional, she focused a large portion of her energy and time on her daughter's musical pursuits.  She was determined that each of her daughters would play a musical instrument and excel at it.  But excelling at something takes hours upon hours of tortuous practice, tears and yelling matches.

This book is mostly about music.

Amy makes broad generalizations about "Western" culture and parenting that is often annoying.  Of course, she admits that she's not saying ALL "Western parents" are like this... but still.  The same holds true for her ideas of "Chinese parents"... well, their way is apparently perfect.

As a parent, I took some of what she said as good advice.  For example, she said (and I'm paraphrasing here), that children want to be good at things, but they don't want to work to be good at it.  But they don't realize that in order to be good, it takes hard work, which is not always fun.  This is why parents should override their wishes and do what is best for them.  As a music teacher, I agree.

She also said that she doesn't believe in bribery (although she does go back on that later).  She says that if anything, children should be paying the parents... not the other way around!  Funny to think of it that way... and I agree!

She says that the reason Asian children are always the best in their classes is because it's expected of them.  The parents believe that their child can be the very best and expect nothing less.  When an Asian child brings home an A-, the parents drill over and over and over again until the child has mastered whatever subject began to slip.  It's not that they're born with better brain genes, although some may, but more that their diligent work ethic allows no room for error.

She says that while Asian children are busy mastering an instrument, or drilling math problems for hours on end, Western parents have their kids in pointless activities such as little league or going to play dates and sleepovers.  Asian parents never allow their children to partake in such frivolous and meaningless activities.

One thing that struck me and caused me to think... she said that while Western parents are more concerned with giving their children memorable childhoods that are endearing, fond and magical, Asian parents see childhood as training grounds for adulthood.

Amy's two children are very different from one another.  Sophie is obedient and submissive... the ideal Chinese daughter.  Lulu is headstrong, stubborn and tough... the Chinese mother's nightmare!  Sophie was placed in piano and excelled immediately.  She went on to win many prestigious competitions and had invitations to play at Carnegie Hall and at a museum event abroad.  She and Amy had a bond... a friendship that was easy. Lulu, on the other hand, was forced to play violin.  While she enjoyed the violin, she hated the way her mother made her practice.  It seemed like Amy was shoving that violin bow down Lulu's poor throat!
Did I like the book?  Kind of.  Honestly, while listening to Amy's ideas was interesting, sometimes (ahem, most of the time) she came off as incredibly arrogant and she got under my skin.  She also writes like a professor, not a writer... she uses the same descriptive words throughout, "...by contrast, Western parents..."  And, I don't think she even realizes that she was definitely the villan in her own book!

3 Stars
I listened to the audio version of this book
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Reviewed by Nicole at 10:24 PM 1 comments
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February 27, 2012

Sweeter Than Birdsong by Rosslyn Elliott



Sweeter Than Birdsong takes place in a small Ohio town in 1855.  Slavery was still widely acceptable, the Civil War had not yet broken out and abolition efforts were kept very quiet.  

Kate Winter, although one of the only young ladies allowed into Otterbein College, has a major stumbling block.  She can not speak in public.  Her shyness is so extreem that it hinders her social appearance as well as her collegiate studies.  But even still, her beauty, soft demeanor and kindness has brought forth two suitors, Frederick Jones and Ben Hanby.  

Frederick Jones seems the likely choice.  He's well established with plans on becoming a lawyer.  His family is prominent within the town and he is extremely charming. 
On the other hand, Ben Hanby is kind, convicted and passion for music.  His plans are less for prosperity, as he intends to become a minister, just like his father.  He is convicted in the cause for freedom for slaves and he uses his love for music to help change the hearts of many.  

When Ben and his mother, working for the underground railroad, go on a mission to free a few Kentucky slaves, Kate somehow gets involved as well.  And her heart is moved... for the abolition movement and for Ben.  But with Kate's overbearing mother, a true courtship with Ben seems impossible.  

Will Ben and Kate ever find favor together?  Will Kate find her true voice and overcome her gripping fears?  Will all of their efforts be in vain?

This book is amazing...  The kind of book you can't wait to get back to.  It is beautifully written and the content is deep, thrilling and moving.  You go on a roller coaster ride along with the characters... adventure, dispair, hopelessness, exhaustion, fear, love, forgiveness.  It is a beautiful story.  I felt tense coming up to the end, thinking there was NO way it would be able to tie up... there weren't enough pages left!  But Elliott did a brilliant job of pulling it all together nicely.  There was only one loose end that I was left curious about... but really, it makes no difference.  I can not express to you how much I loved this book.  Definitely the best book I've read so far in 2012! 

And it's partially true!  In this historical fiction, it seems there is more history than fiction!  

5 Stars!!!

I received a complementary copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.  This is it. 

But wait... There's MORE!

Win an iPod Nano and Downtown Abbey from Rosslyn Elliott! Enter 2/9-2/28!
In this second in the award-winning Saddler's Legacy series, Rosslyn Elliott has written a stirring novel of hope and faith inspired by real historical people and events. With Ben Hanby, a genius composer, Kate Winter, one of the first female college graduates in America, and John Parker, an ex-slave who risked his life time and again to help fugitive slaves, Sweeter than Birdsong is full of real heroes to inspire us. "I hope readers will find a renewed sense of strength in their own lives," says Elliott, "knowing that change is possible, and our efforts matter. I want them to remember these unique, brave people in history who left us a shining example of what it means to live out one's beliefs with passion and commitment."

So to celebrate the music in all of us, Rosslyn and Thomas Nelson are hosting this "sweet giveaway".
One fortunate winner will receive:
  • A Brand new iPod Nano (Winner's choice of color!)
  • Fairer than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott
  • Sweeter than Birdsong by Rosslyn Elliott
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on February 28th. Winner will be announced at Sweeter than Birdsong Author Chat Facebook Party on 2/28. Rosslyn will be chatting with guests, sharing a sneak peek of the next book in the series, hosting a trivia contest, and more! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, season 1 of DowntownAbbey, and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club AND a LIVE Author Chat for your group with Rosslyn.)

So grab your copy of Sweeter than Birdsong and join Rosslyn and friends on the evening of the 28th for an evening of fun.
Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter
Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 28th!
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Reviewed by Nicole at 10:00 AM 4 comments
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January 28, 2012

Superbia by Bernard Schaffer

Superbia by Bernard Schaffer is a super fast pasted, adrenaline laced story about the life of a cop.

Frank O'Brian is a newbie in a relatively small town that basically only handles misdemeanors.  After only being on the job for a few short years, he was injured in a robbery gone wrong arrest.  When he got back from recovery, he was placed in the unit's Detectives team... that consisted of just one lonely hard ass, Vic.  Together Vic and Frank work on a few cases that come into the station... one a drug bust, the other a molestation charge. The cases wear down on them.  It affects their personal lives, their family lives and their sanity.

This book goes into the dark, behind the scenes evils that cops have to deal with on a daily basis... and it's not pretty.  I really appreciated how Vic and Frank were real people.  They were't super hero cops... they weren't pompous or over righteous.  They were messed up!  The job got under their skin, as I'm sure it does in real life.  It's clear that Schaffer is/was a cop... the details about the job and the politics within are too close to home to not be real.

I read this book in just 3 days... leisurely.  I had no intention to rush, but it was too good to put down.  Schaffer's writing is top notch.  He is funny, dark and tortured throughout.  I was laughing at one page and then crying at the very next.  The dialogue and relationship that blossoms between Vic and Frank is both rich and deep.  My only complaint would have to be that it ended too suddenly.  I would have liked a little more... but maybe that's just me being greedy?

Overall, Superbia offers a very interesting look behind the dark and gory curtain of life as a cop.
4.5 stars

I was offered a complementary copy of this book in return for my honest review. 

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Reviewed by Nicole at 4:07 PM 0 comments
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January 26, 2012

The Pleasure of My Company

The Pleasure of My Company is a comedy novela written by the hilarious and smart Steve Martin.  I got this one off Amazon for only $1 through some special offer... looked good, funny guy, why not?

The book follows a single 20 or 30 something (depending who he's talking to), Daniel, through his mundane daily life.  He suffers from massive, compulsive OCD.  His OCD keeps him in a world that is a tapestry of rules, regulations and ridiculousness.  He can't step off curbs, he's a pathological liar and he obviously can't hold a job.  He holds long conversations in his mind and has truths that are the truth to only himself.

This book is really well written, and it's funny.  Even though the entire book pretty much takes place inside Daniel's mind, it is not boring or slow moving.  There's not much dialogue, but with a brain like Daniel's, not much is needed.  This is one of those stories that's weird and you have to turn the page out of pure curiosity.

The book also has a beautiful twist that redeems it completely.  In fact, the last 10 pages made it for me.  For that, I give it 3 stars.



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Reviewed by Nicole at 4:34 PM 2 comments
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January 22, 2012

Dinner With Lisa by R.L. Prendergast

Dinner With Lisa sets place in Canada right after the market crash and great depression that devastated the North American economy in the 1930's.  It follows Joseph, an honest, hardworking and generous widower, who has set off to a new city after the death of his wife with his four small children in tow.  He decided to move to the city of Philibuster, where his half-brother lived, in an effort to raise his children around some family as well as become employed.

Although he had a letter of employment in hand when arriving in Philibuster, his employer, the crooked Mayor, Westmoreland, decided to give his job away to a family member.  Joseph, now desperate for a job, food and a way to support his children continues his daily struggle for survival.  Along the way he makes some friends and many enemies.  He loses a good friend and almost his children.  And he finds love.

It is a story of hope for the hopeless.  And for once, the good guy wins.

Predergast's writing is beautiful.  He carefully lays out each detail vividly.  I know what the city of Philibuster looks like.  I can get to the local shop from Joseph's house.  But, for my own liking, I found this book to be too slow.  With all the description, there was not much room left for dialogue.  Long passages of prose left my eyes heavy.  Also, most of the action takes place in the last quarter of the book... and the journey to get there is long and tiresome... as I'm sure it was for Joseph as well!  Just not my cup of tea.

2 Stars
I received a complementary copy of this book for the purpose of this review.  This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
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Reviewed by Nicole at 10:37 PM 1 comments
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January 14, 2012

Bossypants by Tina Fey


Unless you've been living under a very large rock, you have heard wonderful things about comedy writer, Tina Fey's book, Bossypants.  I had not been living under said rock, and wanted so badly to read it, but I could not bring myself to buy it.  You see, I don't buy books.  I just can't do it.  I either get them from the library, Paperback Swap it, borrow it, or get it for free from the publisher (thanks Book Nook!)  The library had a wait list from here to eternity, as did PBS... and I didn't know anyone in my city who owned the book... and let's face it, Tina's publishers have much more important reviewers than little ol' me!  But I didn't want to be the ONLY one on planet Earth who had not enjoyed the hilarity of Tina Fey.  So, when my dad bought me a 6 month subscription to Audible for my birthday, this book was first on my list!

And it was great!

I loved the fact that in listening to the book, rather than reading it, I got to hear it exactly in the way she intended it.  It was her story in her voice.  And she's funny... really funny.  It went from her early childhood, through high school, college, the improv touring company, SNL, 30 Rock and everywhere in between.  She talks about things like vanity, sexism in the workplace, photoshop and being a mom.  This book covers everything... and she doesn't hold back one bit.  This audio book made me laugh out loud, and look like a crazy person to everyone I crossed on the street.

I loved that some of the things she wrote about, I could relate to... as a woman, as a mom, as a (frustrated) performer.  And she writes about events that JUST happened, so they're fresh in your mind and you have an "inside scoop" into the dirty details... like when she played Sarah Palin on SNL... or when Oprah was on 30 Rock.

This book made me respect Tina Fey in a new way.  For being a brave woman in a man's world of comedy entertainment.  She's like a pioneer!

Yeah, I kinda love her now.

4 Stars.

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Reviewed by Nicole at 11:42 AM 2 comments
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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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Reviewed by Nicole at 5:31 PM 0 comments
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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 4, 2011

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

17 year old Anna has a decent life in Atlanta.  She's got wonderful friends, a sweet 7 year old brother and a mom who just "gets her".  She's got a great job at the movie theatre, where she gets to watch all the movies she wants for free (her favorite thing ever) and work alongside the lead singer/guitar player of her dreams- Toph.  But her life quickly changes when her father, writer of cheesy sappy romance novels, makes it big and decides his daughter needs a better education.  He ships her off to the School of Americans in Paris (or SOAP) to finish off her Senior year.

But don't feel sorry for Anna yet because SOAP is pretty awesome.  Yes, the school is rigorous, but also freeing.  Students live in dorms, eat meals in a restaurant type cafe and are allowed to party on weekends.  Oh, and the drinking age in France?  16.  Yeah, pretty awesome.

Anna becomes friends with a group of veterans at the school.  They've been there since freshman year, know fluent French and show Anna the ropes.  There's Meredith, the sporty one- Josh and Rashimi, who are always making out... and then... Ettiene St. Clair.  St. Clair is "the boy".  You know the one everyone likes.  He's charming, sweet, funny, and French/British/American.  Anna immediately falls for him, but there's just one problem- he's had a girlfriend for over a year.  Will these two ever get together?

I think the answer is obvious.

I liked this book.  It was fun, silly and sweet.  But... it was whipped cream.  Tasty, sweet, light and breezy.  Everyone likes whipped cream.  But does it fill you up?  Is it substantial?  No.  Not at all.  It's incredibly obvious.  You know what the ending is before even cracking the spine.  No surprises.

But that's not to say it's not a good book, because it is.  If that's the sort of thing you're looking for.  If you need a break from the heart wrenching or the nail biting, this is your pick.  I think anyone in high school would adore this book... and it's also safe for them because they keep the PDA to a minimum and there's no sex... there's the mention of people having sex, but no details.

Perkins writing is great too.  She has a fun tone throughout and she captures you from page one.

3 Stars.



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Reviewed by Nicole at 5:04 PM 3 comments
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November 19, 2011

Before I Go To Sleep by S.J. Watson

Christine wakes up in the morning and looks to her side.  She sees a man she's never seen before.  She looks around the room and realizes she doesn't recognize that either.  Her first thought is that she must have gotten really drunk the night before and ended up in some mans bed.  Worse than that, he's an old man... and he's wearing a wedding ring!  She quietly gets out of bed and tiptoes to the bathroom, but when washing her hands she notices something odd... foreign even.  Her skin... it's thinner, veiny, wrinkled.  The screaming doesn't begin until she looks up at her reflection and realizes that she doesn't recognize the woman staring back at her.  She has aged, twenty years, over night.

The man in bed, rushes into the bathroom and begins to explain.  Christine has had an accident, many years ago, leaving her with no memory and no ability to fabricate new ones.  Every night when she falls into a deep sleep, her memory resets and she is left with no recollection of the previous day.  The man is her husband, Ben, and every day he has to reintroduce his wife to their life.

After Ben goes to work, she receives a phone call from a man, Dr. Nash, who is a psychologist and neuroscientist, who says that they've been working together to try and restore her memory.  When she doesn't believe him, he tells her to go look in the shoebox hidden in the back of her closet.  In it, she finds a journal, written by herself, documenting the past few weeks.  It's her history... the only history she knows... the only truth she has.  Just then something catches her eye.  She has written on the first page of the journal in large capital letters:  DON'T TRUST BEN.

This book is FAN-Tastic.  This is definitely the best book I've read all year.  It is heart-wrenching and confusing.  You have to travel with Christine and under her circumstances to find out the truth of what has happened all those years ago.  You have to work with her to find out if she really shouldn't trust Ben, her husband of twenty-something years, or if she's just confused.

While reading this, I began to feel like I was the one becoming paranoid.  I started thinking that maybe I had missed something... maybe I was confused.  And as the end approaches you will not be able to breathe!  I was literally holding my breath, and I'd have to put the book down to just say "Ahhhh" for a minute.  You know it's a good book when you do that!  Such a good read.  Suspenseful, thrilling and mysterious.

5 stars.



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Reviewed by Nicole at 2:04 PM 4 comments
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November 14, 2011

Something Witchy This Way Comes by Veronica Blade

Tessa is your average high school senior.  She gets good grades, has good friends and is a good girl.  She has a kid sister that she absolutely adores, and takes most of the responsibility for, since her parents have sort of checked out.  While they're there to pay the bills and keep the fridge stocked, they aren't there for much of anything else.

One day Tessa gets called into the principals office to be informed that she's in danger.  The principal assigns the rudest and biggest player and straight up bad boy in school to play bodyguard for Tessa... only problem is, he's insanely hot.  Normally she wouldn't think twice about going for a guy like Hayden, but as they begin to hang out more, their chemistry begins to ignite.

Tessa also learns some life changing news during her visit with the principal.  Turns out, she's a witch.  She's got super special abilities, like reading minds, telekinesis and blocking... amongst other things.  She begins working with her principal (also a sorcerer) to develop her skills and learn about her abilities.  Things begin to heat up when she learns that there are two sides to every story.

She must choose between two sides... good versus evil... but which is which, she can't tell?  She must decide and pledge her allegiance to the right side before her 18th birthday, but choosing wrong could cost her her life.  In her journey to pick a side, she uncovers mysteries about herself, her family and Hayden that puts her life in danger... and time is running out.

I really really enjoyed this book.  I mean, is there anyone that doesn't enjoy a good YA Fantasy?  And, I'm not afraid to admit it... I loved Twilight... yeah, I'm that girl.   What I loved about this book was that it dove straight into my emotions.  When she and Hayden had a steamy scene, I felt it too.  When she was getting into trouble, I was biting my nails.  When she discovered truths, I gasped and even cried.  It was a great emotional roller coaster... and with the fun of the fantasy stuff thrown in.

What I didn't love about the book was that there was a bit too much teenage girl doubting questioning drama... "I like him, but he's a jerk, but he's so cute, but he's gonna break my heart, but he's sometimes sweet, but..."  It's like every other page Tessa would decide to either love or hate Hayden forever.  I wanted to scream DECIDE ALREADY!  But, that's oh so typical teenage girl behavior, isn't it?  The other thing, being a Twilight fan, it's hard not to compare.  There were some similarities... as I also found in Hush, Hush and Shiver.  I just would LOVE to find a YA Fantasy that was waaaaay out there... with nothing, nothing, nothing to remind me of Edward and Bella's epic love story.

This book was great fun.  I peeled through it.  4 Stars.

If you're interested in learning more about Something Witchy This Way Comes by Veronica Blade, you can join the Veronica for an author chat on November 18 at 8pm EST.  She'll be giving away a copy of her book and answering questions live via chat.  Sounds like fun!  I'll be there!

Click HERE to join the party!
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Reviewed by Nicole at 7:00 AM 0 comments
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