Lots of upcoming reviews in the works!

Gosh, I've been so busy lately, but never too busy to stop and read a good book! I have several books in line for review and hope to have them all done by the end of the year, if not before. So watch for these next (and not necessarily in this order) - hopefully you will be able to find your next good book to read!

AFTER THE BALL by Barb Greenberg

DRIVE TIME by Hank Phillippi Ryan

AN AFRICAN TALE by Enna Neru

THE MICHAEL JACKSON TAPES by Rabbi Shmuley Boteach

TERROR BY NIGHT by Terry Caffey with James H. Pence

WHAT THE BAYOU SAW by Patti Lacy

GARLIC AND ROSES by Gail Gaymer Martin

MAGGIE ROSE by Sharlene MacLaren

AMANDA'S AMAZING ADVENTURES: Book 1 - The Case of the Missing Pooch by C.C. Cowan - Two age group editions!

THIGH SCRAPERS by C.C. Cowan

KATIE BEAR & FRIENDS (BOOK ONE) by V.K. Sansone

KATIE BEAR & FRIENDS (BOOK TWO) by V.K. Sansone

KATIE BEAR & FRIENDS (BOOK THREE) by V.K. Sansone

WANTED: CHILDREN FOR TOYS by V.K. Sansone

THE CARPENTER AND HIS WIFE by V.K. Sansone

HOW TO RAISE SUCCESSFUL CHILDREN by Joe Holmes

Pieces of a Rainbow by Maria Savva

Pieces of a Rainbow

by Maria Savva

In this collection of short stories, Savva has captured the essence of her characters in a well-paced, gripping mannerism. One of the most difficult tasks for an author when writing a short story is to be compelling enough to complete the story in novel magnitude, but with minimal words. There's no room for building up the background surrounding the characters and their stories. Savva has mastered the technique with ease.

The characters are realistic, the stories are attention grabbing and the detailed depth of the scenes are by far some of the best I've seen, and all done with a poetic justice of sorts. Each story is wrapped around a color found in rainbows, a most unusual and brilliant concept.

I'd highly recommend this read and give it 5 Stars!

Reviewed by Cindy BauerThe Memory Box Trilogy (Chasing Memories, Shades of Blue and Crystal Clear)

Angels in the Landfill by Carlynn

Angels in the Landfill
by Carlynn
ISBN #978-1-4401-2114-2

Though described as a collection of essays, I felt while reading this truly inspirational book that it is more along the lines of a memoir.

Through the well-written chapters, the reader is taken along for the journey the author has endured. It's a collection of memories and passions deeply felt by and/or experienced by the author.

Carlynn has been through so much in life already. Most of us will, in our lifetimes, experience only a small dose of what this author has and yet, each page, each story, reveals the uplifting soul of the heart behind the words.

Through sadness, joy, and a passion for the gifts the Lord has bestowed upon us, the author sheds light on the many areas of life we normally might walk by, unnoticed by the naked eye, and though not unscathed, she has miraculously risen above it all--triumphant with an even deeper faith.

I found this to be a truly inspirational and informative read, where not only are we shown the troubled life of the author, but a deeper, more passionate side of her insight into the wonders of the world, blessings given to us, and everything about the author which makes up her uniqueness.

I'd highly recommend this book, no matter the reader's preference, as it touches on so many areas of interest, tugging at our heartstrings, instilling a deeper faith, a broader vision and a defining realism and perspective.

reviewed by: Cindy Bauer

The Memory Box Trilogy (Chasing Memories, Shades of Blue and Crystal Clear)

Flyers & Brochures Give-a-Way!

Giveaway Prize:

100 Brochures for One Lucky Winner !!!

100 - 8.5 x11" Brochure / Flyers

on 100lb gloss text paper ; 4 color printing on both sides

Folding Choices:

Half fold; Trifold/Letterfold; Z-fold; Accordion (4 panels) Roll Fold (4 Panels)

Shipping: FREE

UPS Ground ShippingEligibility: Limited to US Residents due to shipping costs.

This giveaway is sponsored by Uprinting.com & the winner will be posted right here by November 10, 2009 !!!

To enter for your chance to win:

Post a comment to this blog post about the giveaway explaining how you will use your flyers/brochures, should you win.

It's that simple!!!

Not only will the winner receive the give-a-way prize, but I will too! - just for hosting this really great give-a-way on my blog!

To get things rolling, here's an example of what my flyers will look like!

For more information, visit these links:

Brochure Printing

Flyer Printing

You are welcome to post this contest on your blog as well, but please link it back to this posting and also to Uprinting.com. And don't forget to tweet your followers!

ENTER TODAY!!!

The Basic Art of Italian Cooking: Holidays & Special Occasions

Author: Maria Liberati

ISBN: 978-192891102-9

Publisher: Art of Living, Prima Media, Inc.

Author Maria Liberati does a superb job at bringing great food and ambience to life. In The Basic Art of Italian Cooking: Holidays & Special Occasions, Maria shares classic Italian recipes with a hint of memories. The book is divided into eight sections. Each segment consists of menus for special occasions including: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, Valentine's Day, and Carnevale. It also contains an interesting story on how and where Carnevale began as well as the legend of Valentine's Day, and another surprise legend celebrated in Italy.

Holidays and special occasions are a special time to get together with family and friends. The Basic Art of Italian Cooking: Holidays & Special Occasions is a perfect book that demonstrates easy steps on how to create an everlasting memory for you and your guests. It is sure to bring you plenty of compliments and good spirits—not to mention great food!

Ever dream to visit Italy? Dream no more. Maria Liberati takes you on a front row seat. Not only will you learn a little Italian, but you'll feel like a great chef.

The book includes ingredient recommendations, tips on wine, and decorating the atmosphere to set the mood. The first chapter introduces the first course, second course, and Dolci (desserts). Preceding the first chapter are countless recipes and tips from Maria's Kitchen. Maria brings sophistication and delicious meals to the table, and at the same time she shows her readers how to make an endless impression on special occasions. The only drawback is having to decide which recipe to try first!

The Glossary of Italian Words, and suggested meals are a nice touch. Even if you aren't a cooking enthusiast you will enjoy reading Maria's heart warming short stories. Experience the recipes as Maria did and get to know Italy's finest foods at its best. If you don't already love Italy and Italian food, you will after reading The Basic Art of Italian Cooking: Holidays & Special Occasions.
As a former international supermodel, Maria Liberati never dreamed that she would go from being a fashion diva to a domestic diva. Maria became closer to the simplicity of life and food in the country setting of her family’s vineyard in the mountains of central Italy. She began writing food articles and restaurant review columns. She was soon asked to conduct cooking programs while in Italy and then in the States. Maria divides her time between her office and residence in the USA and Italy.

Reviewed by Martha Ramirez
http://www.bookpleasures.com/

Win 250 Free Business Cards!

Uprinting is hosting another great give-a-way!

Giveaway Prize:

250 business cards for One Lucky Winner (Free UPS Ground Shipping in USA)

Sizes: 2 x 3.5”, 2 x 3”, 2 x 2” (square card) or 1.5 x 3.5” (skinny card)

Paper: 14 pt gloss cardstock, 14 pt matte cardstock or 13 pt recycled uncoated cardstock

Specifications: Full Color Both Sides; Offset Press; 3 Business Day Printing

Restrictions:

Free UPS Ground Shipping in the USA.

Canadian Residents must Pay Shipping and Taxes.

Residents of other countries are not eligible

Winner will be announced by October 22, 2009!

This giveaway is sponsored by Uprinting.com

To enter for your chance to win, post a comment to this blog post about the giveaway explaining how you will use your business cards, should you win. It's that simple!!!

Not only will the winner receive the 250 free business cards, but I will too, just for hosting this really neat give-a-way! To get things rolling, here's one example of what my business card might look like!

My book business card - Front

My book business card - Back

For more information, visit these links:

Uprinting.com - Online Printing Company

or

Uprinting.com - Business Card Printing

You are welcome to post this contest on your blog as well, but please link it back to this posting and also to Uprinting.com. And don't forget to tweet your followers!

ENTER TODAY!!!

Congratulations C.C. Cowan!

C.C. Cowan has won the 18 x 24

Rolled Poster Give-a-Way!

Congratulations C.C. !!!

Thirsty

by Tracey Bateman

Nina Parker is an alcoholic—a recovering one, recently released from rehab. She’s lost everything, including the husband she loves. But returning to her hometown with a reluctant daughter in tow may not be the easiest way to re-enter the world. Abbey Hills holds the parents Nina abandoned at age sixteen, her perfect sister, the man who stole her innocence, and a heart full of terrifying memories she’s not quite ready to confront.

It also houses the handsome, mysterious Markus Chisom. He’s as much an addict as is Nina … but his thirst is dark and unspeakable, though centuries of practice have given him more control than Nina has yet achieved. His obsession with Nina is older than she can possibly imagine. But an old acquaintance is in town as well. Eden is darker and stronger than Markus, and she neither has nor desires control of her thirst.

Will Nina find the strength she needs to save herself and her daughter? Will Markus help her, or will Eden sway him to return to the old ways?

Tracey Bateman does an astounding job of interweaving a spiritual message within a tapestry of dark desires. Thirsty is a spine-tingling story of addiction and recovery, love and loss, hope and healing … good and evil. It’s a witness to God’s power to quench a raving thirst, heal a hurting heart, and mend a broken life. A well written, tightly woven, wonderfully mesmerizing tale.

Delia Latham

The New Arthritis Cure

Author's Name: Dr. Bruce Fife, CN, ND

ISBN: 978-0-941599-82-5

Publisher: Piccadilly Books, Ltd.

More than 21% of the adult population suffers from arthritis. The New Arthritis Cure is far more than just a cure for arthritis book. Not only is it an amazing guide on how to eliminate arthritis and fibromyalgia pain permanently, but it is also an informative guide on how to achieve a healthy lifestyle.

An interesting read for anyone who is interested in promoting a healthy life, even if you don't have arthritis, but for those who are suffering from this crippling disease, you're in luck, there is finally a cure.

The first few chapters cover the many faces of arthritis and the truth behind arthritis and fibromyalgia. Anti-inflammatory medications and pain killers merely mask the symptoms while the disease progress and worsen. In chapter one, you'll learn the underlying cause of arthritis and as you read further into the book you'll discover the actual cure.

Several people suffering from the crippling disease has shared their inspiring experiences and how the techniques in this book have helped them overcome their battles. It was interesting to read how a relatively simple cure allowed them to overcome arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Dr. Bruce Fife thoroughly reveals the underlying cause and how to cure it, a unique book that offers a natural approach to prevention and cure. You will learn a number of lessons of why arthritis has been crippling people since the King Henry VIII era.

In The New Arthritis Cure you will read about a disease that once was claimed to be incurable, until now. The author takes you on a step by step guide on why 46 million Americans are suffering, what steps to take to stop the disease, and ways to regain your health.

An extraordinary phenomenon that will unleash a new beginning for those who suffer from arthritis or fibromyalgia. Learn how to be in better health with the anti-arthritis diet and a seven-day whole food challenge. The handy little easy to read guide is full of useful information and most of all it offers hope to a disease that once was known to be incurable.

I'd recommend The New Arthritis Cure to anyone who is interested in a healthier lifestyle and definitely to those who are suffering from arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Author Bruce Fife is a doctor, CN, ND, and a certified nutritionist. He is also a naturopathic physician whom authored over twenty books. He is a much sought after speaker and lectures throughout the world.

"A diagnosis of arthritis is not a life sentence."—Dr. Bruce Fife

Click Here To Purchase The New Arthritis Cure: Eliminate Arthritis and Fibromyalgia Pain Permanently

Reviewed by Martha Ramirez www.Bookpleasures.com

Win a free 18 x 24 poster!

Prize: (1) 18" x 24" Rolled Poster Print
(Free UPS Ground Shipping!)

Winner will be announced by September 30, 2009

This giveaway is sponsored by DigitalRoom.com.

**This offer is open to US Residents only.

To enter for your chance to win, post a comment to this blog post about the giveaway explaining how you will use your poster, should you win. The posters can be done from any photo you already have or one you design yourself, as I've done below.

It's that simple!!!

Not only will the winner receive a free rolled poster print, but I will too! To get things rolling, here's the print I will be using on my poster to help promote my books. I'll take it to signing events!

For more information, visit:
Poster Printing or Digital Printing

**You are welcome to post this contest on your blog as well, but please link it back to this posting. And don't forget to tweet your followers!

ENTER TODAY!!!

Air Time by Hank Phillippi Ryan

Charlie is on a story about fashion knock-offs, a big business that really costs everyone involved in the market, including the consumer, in the end. She and Franklin encounter a problem with the flight to Boston, putting Charlie's nose for news into high gear; especially when the airline tries to pawn off a flimsy excuse. Things like that don't happen without a reason. Though she's not sure what's going on, Charlie's instincts tell her someone is deliberately hiding something.

In this third book, Charlie goes undercover, a new twist for the McNally series. Unfortunately, her relationship with Josh is once again strained and Josh wants to move in with her so he can spend more time with her. Charlie is torn between her job and feelings for Josh. He knew what her life was about when they met. Doesn't Josh understand how important her job is to her? Surely he knows her feelings for him. Why wasn't that enough?

Filled with Charlie's unique humor and to-the-point dialogue, she manages to find herself amidst the danger once again as she probes for answers. She's really putting her life on the line this time and someone is not happy about her questions. Someone is aware that she's getting too close. And that someone can't afford to let that happen!

There’s more at stake than Charlie is aware of when she first begins her investigation, including her own personal life. But Charlie will risk anything and everything to get a story. She's not going down without a fight.

Hank Ryan's done it again in yet another suspenseful, romantic story combined with her expertise in the field of news reporting. She knows how to take you behind the scenes in getting a story, including the camaraderie between Charlie and her producer/friend, Franklin, the hectic, fast-paced life of a reporter and the inside view into Charlie‘s personal life, which adds even more realism to the piece.

Ryan planted her hook in early when I read Prime Time, kept me turning the pages in Face Time and had me on the edge of my seat in Air Time. I can’t wait to see what kind of trouble Charlie gets into in the next installment in this series, Drive Time.

A highly recommended read for anyone who loves reading mystery and suspense wrapped thoroughly with intense action and mind-boggling storylines.

Reviewed by Cindy Bauer for Bookpleasures.com

Cindy Bauer is the author of the Memory Box Trilogy, Chasing Memories (2006 & 2008), Shades of Blue (2007 & 2008)and Crystal Clear (2009), an Inspirational Fiction series. She is an avid reader, a freelance writer and editor, and reviews books for Bookpleasures and New Leaf Press. She recently joined the staff at Visual Arts Junction and contributes articles on writing, publishing and marketing works. With the completion of her Inspirational series, Cindy plans to write in the mystery/suspense genre, which is her favorite to read and review. Visit Cindy Bauer Books to learn more!

Maggie Rose

by Sharlene MacLaren

1904. Maggie Rose is the middle daughter of Jacob Kane. She’s spunky and innocent at twenty years old when she leaves her family’s home in Sandy Shores, Michigan in response to God’s call to work with orphans in New York City.

Upon settling in at her new job, Maggie Rose is appalled by the painful pasts of many of the children at Sheltering Arms Refuge. Though she misses her family, she’s amazed by her immediate response to the unfortunate orphans. Each of the children touches Maggie Rose’s heart in a special way, and she finds herself loving them all with whole-hearted love and compassion.

Luke Madison is a news reporter who’s recent losses have left him cynical, hard, and obsessed with finding someone to blame for a tragic shipboard fire that took the lives of over a thousand women and children, including his own aunt and his adored fiancée. His editor firmly removes him from the story that’s too close to his heart, and hands him an assignment covering the city’s street orphans—starting at a family-owned and operated orphanage called Sheltering Arms Refuge.

Between Maggie Rose and the handsome reporter springs up an instant animosity…and unwelcome attraction. She needs to focus on her ministry with the children. He’s still in love with a memory. She can never give her heart to a man who doesn’t share her love for Christ. He holds God responsible for his pain and loss. Even the orphans’ sad fates give Luke more reason to turn his back on his Creator.

In this second volume of The Daughters of Jacob Kane, the author paints a vivid picture of caring and compassion, of obedience and dedication to the call of Christ, of love and loss and love renewed. Sharlene MacLaren’s ability to breathe warm, heart-pumping life into her characters is key to the success of her wonderful tales. Maggie Rose is without a doubt character-driven, yet an equally strong, believable plot helps keep the pages turning and the reader’s interest and emotions invested right up to the last line of the last page. Within its pages is a masterpiece of storytelling that contains all the essential ingredients: mystery and suspense; poignancy and pathos; love and romance; humor and heart.

Maggie Rose is an enlightening ride on the early nineteenth century orphan train. By the last rail station, the reader’s heart is waylaid and held hostage by the children, captivated by the innocence and fervor of young Maggie Rose, and forever lost to the journalist who didn’t want to be a part of the story.

Don’t miss this one…

Delia Latham

Crystal Clear

Crystal Clear is an action-packed intriguing novel intertwined with mystery, suspense, and romance, all in one. Author Cindy Bauer has a unique voice and does a fantastic job at bringing her characters to life. The mysterious plot and the unexpected danger will be sure to keep you turning the pages.

Someone has chosen Annie Thompson as a target. But who? And why?

Come on an emotional journey filled with curiosity and faith. Meet Annie, her mother Laura, and her step-father Greg. And we certainly can't forget Jordan, Annie's ex-boyfriend who may be a prime suspect.

With a satisfying ending and a delightful message of faith woven into the story, Crystal Clear is sure to be a hit.

Cindy Bauer is on fire, and I doubt the inferno will be put out soon.

A fine debut author.5 Stars. A recommended read!

Buy Crystal Clear HERE

Be sure to check out the trilogy to Crystal Clear

Love Finds You in Revenge, Ohio

by Lisa Harris

She’s been jilted twice, and Catherine Morgan has no intention of letting it happen again. Every man in her life has failed her – including her father, whose abandonment left her responsible for her three younger sisters and her mother. She’s vowed off of love and marriage and devoted herself to running the family’s general store and keeping her sisters safe and happy until they find good husbands to take over the job.

Things are handled. Everything’s going smoothly.

Then Sheriff Corbin Hunter shows up in the small town of Revenge, Ohio and turns Catherine’s world on end. He left her once, and now she must decide whether she can trust him again – this time, with her sister’s heart. Corbin’s evidence points to Audrey’s fiancé as the head of an infamous criminal gang. In her efforts to prove otherwise and save her sister from heartbreak, Catherine finds her own heart responding once again to the man who jilted her seven years ago.

As if Corbin’s reappearance isn’t upheaval enough, news of their father’s death arrives to further upset the Morgan sisters. Though Catherine has no love left for Isaiah Morgan, who couldn’t be bothered to be a husband and father, she must deal with her sisters’ grief and her own lingering resentment.

Corbin Hunter wants the man who killed his father, and he’ll let nothing and no one—certainly not the girl who broke his heart seven years ago—stand in his way. His desire for revenge could cost him the love of his life.

Love Finds You in Revenge Ohio is packed with the essentials of good reading: fun, faith, mystery, romance, bad bad guys and a heroic hero. Well written, with lots of plot twists to keep those pages turning, details authentic to the time period, likeable (and some not-so-likeable) characters, and the kind of ending that makes for loyal readers. Good stuff!

Delia Latham

Face Time by Hank Phillippi Ryan

Title: Face Time
Author: Hank Phillippi Ryan
ISBN # 978-0-7783-2718-9
Publisher: MIRA Books

(A Harlequin Imprint)

Charlotte McNally is at it again, only this time she’s after a boost in the Nielsen ratings when mysteriously, a tape winds up in her possession that will prove confessed killer, Dorinda Sweeney, could not have possibly murdered her husband four years earlier. So why is the convicted woman still professing her guilt?

“Charlie’s” journalistic senses pick up on the story of a lifetime, delving into the seemingly closed case with her witty, yet stubborn determination to shed light on the truth. But the lead prosecutor in the Sweeney case, now running for Governor, is demanding “Charlie” back off. Instead of doing that, though, his persistence only heightens “Charlie’s” instincts that she’s on the right track and there’s no way she’s going to back down on this one!

Though the romance is heating up, “Charlie” is also trying to deal with her questionable future with Josh because his daughter defiantly causes friction on their relationship. And with her mother’s demands while recuperating from unnecessary surgery, “Charlie’s” stress level is constantly in “peak mode”.

But when other people involved in the Sweeney case start turning up dead, Charlie knows she’s hit a nerve, but can she prove they have the wrong person behind bars without making herself another target for the real killer first?

I loved the first book in this series, Prime Time, and hoped Ryan would not disappoint me on this second installment. Hank Ryan’s not only written yet another action-packed, suspense novel, she’s outdone herself with Face Time. Having the journalistic background on her side, Ms. Ryan is able to write a “could really happen” gripping storyline with likeable (and not so likeable) characters readers can relate to.

Brilliantly weaving the personal life of her heroine into the background of the story only adds to the strength in Ryan’s writing ability. Her plots are captivating, her characters are realistic and the surprising twists in her storyline draws the reader in to a life behind the scenes of what one won’t see when watching the ten o’clock news report.

I love it when a series only gets better, a difficult task for any writer to accomplish, but Hank Ryan breezes through with top-notch literary skills. Her creativity with her characters is fantastic and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series to see what “Charlie’s” gotten herself entangled into next.

Bookpleasures
Reviewed by: Cindy Bauer (August 25, 2009)

Cindy Bauer is the well-seasoned author of the Memory Box Trilogy, Chasing Memories (2006 & 2008), Shades of Blue (2007 & 2008) and Crystal Clear (2009), an Inspirational Fiction series. She is an avid reader, a freelance writer and editor, and reviews for both Bookpleasures.com and New Leaf Press. She recently joined the staff at Visual Arts Junction and contributes articles on writing, publishing and marketing works. With the completion of her Inspirational series, Cindy plans to write in the mystery/suspense genre, which is her favorite to read and review.

Martha Ramirez/Review blog

I'd like to invite you to come and follow me at my review blog at: www.Martzreviewz.blogspot.com

The Secret To Teen Power

Author: Paul Harrington

ISBN: 978-1-416-99498-5

Publisher: Simon Pulse

The Secret to Teen Power is a remarkable guide to success, dreams, and happiness. It is an easy read, but yet extremely informative. Even though this book is targeted for teens, adults can also grow and gain knowledge of what the law of attraction is and how it can transform their lives.

No matter what your background is, The Secret can enhance, if not change your life for the better. With faith, perseverance, and the knowledge of The Secret, anything is possible, regardless of your age or ethnicity. There are no boundaries to what you can become, that is if you truly believe in your dreams and desires.

Rhonda Byrne's original publication, the original Secret, inspired this guide for teens to be born. It promises to follow the path of The Secret and motivates teens to bring happiness and harmony to every aspect of their lives. Paul Harrington, producer of The Secret film and author of The Secret to Teen Power, dreams to help teens understand The Secret so that their able to do or be anything their heart longs for.

For today's teens, a perfect guide how to make things happen according to ones will and how to invite positive energy when dealing with issues like schoolwork, relationships, acquaintances, and self-worth.

The book includes personal testimonies of actual teens which demonstrate how learning the power of The Secret can improve and bring dreams to life. In each of its ten chapters you'll learn how The Secret was revealed and how it is made simple. You'll also learn ways how to apply The Secret to your life and the power it possesses.

Whether its money, relationships, or good health, this guide breaks it down in simple ways to achieve your desires. Discover The Secret to the world and The Secret to you. But most importantly learn The Secret to life. Sound too good to be true? Unleash the truth and learn what others have been practicing for centuries. Make your dreams a reality, after all if you don't take control of what you want in life no one else will.

Recently, The Secret was named by USA Today as one of the top 20 bestselling books over the past 15 years. Through author Rhonda Byrne's vision, she brought joy to millions. It transformed billions around the world. If that doesn't say anything I don't know what does.Ask, believe, and receive in limitless ways. Truly, another gem waiting to be discovered.

Click Here To Purchase The Secret to Teen Power

Reviewed by Martha Ramirez
http://www.bookpleasures.com/

Come and follow me at: www.Martzreviewz.blogspot.com

http://www.martzbookz.com/

Love's Rescue

by Tammy Barley

It’s 1863. To escape the ravages of war, Jessica Hale’s family leaves their beloved home in Kentucky for a new life in the Nevada Territory.

Jessica’s brother, Ambrose, is determined to help defend their southern homestead. Against his father’s wishes, the young man joins ranks with the Kentucky militia and returns to the south. When Ambrose goes missing in the midst of the War Between the States, Jessica’s attempts to find him set off a chain of events that will change her life forever.

In the wake of a close encounter with political fanatics, Jessica loses everything that matters and then finds herself spirited away to a remote ranch in the Sierra Nevada wilderness. There, Jessica’s every effort to escape is thwarted by handsome rancher Jake Bennett and his loyal cattlemen.

Jake knows what it’s like to lose everything. He’s determined to protect Jessica through her time of loss. There are those who would harm the young woman for nothing more than being a Southerner, and Jake and his men have no intention of allowing that to happen. Still, how can he help Jessica’s wounded heart to heal when she so deeply resents him for what she perceives as his failure to save her family? He can’t make her see the truth, but he can protect her, and he can pray while her eyes are opened and her broken heart mends.

Tammy Barley’s action-packed debut novel is wonderfully rich in historical detail. It’s a tightly woven, riveting tale of love and loss, faith under fire, and wild hearts on the run. As the author unfolds this spellbinding story, a vivid picture of life in the Old West is revealed with stunning clarity and depth. Love’s Rescue provides everything a reader expects from this era: cowboys and Indians, damsels in distress, good guys and bad hombres, gunfights and moonlit nights. The last page leaves the reader longing for more of Jess and Jake. It’s an absolute must-read for the lover of historical romance.

A masterpiece of storytelling intricately woven with spiritual wisdom and insight, and threaded throughout with the good, the bad, and the ugly of love, life, and humanity.

Bravo, Ms. Barley!

Delia Latham

Review - Sisterchicks in Wooden Shoes

by Robin Jones Gunn

Abnormal.

The moment Summer Finley hears that word in connection with medical tests, her world changes. Having seen “abnormal” results finally take her mother’s life, she finds herself emotionally unable to face the possibilities innate in the ugly term. Her reaction is to make an uncharacteristically spur-of-the-moment trip to the Netherlands. She’ll deal with the interminable period of waiting for biopsy results after this long-anticipated trip. Never having met her pen pal and best friend since fourth grade, Noelle Van Zandt, Summer determines to wait no longer.

She arranges for one week with this friend she knows so well, yet not at all. Summer and Noelle make the most of every moment. In the process, they learn a lot about one another … and perhaps even more about themselves.

A field of tulips, a cup of rich Dutch cocoa, a wooden-shoe boat on an Amsterdam canal, a tour through Corrie ten Boom’s Hiding Place, a visit to a unique farmhouse full of special women … each visit, every experience opens Summer’s heart and mind to a greater trust and faith in God. Noelle, too, confronts painful ghosts from her past and learns valuable lessons in release and forgiveness.

By the time Summer returns home to face her future, both she and her life-long friend have a new understanding of their heavenly Father’s grace and love—and a deeper, closer relationship with each other. With God’s ever-perfect timing, He brings these sisterchicks together at a time when they need each other most.

Sisterchicks in Wooden Shoes is a fun, touching, sometimes poignant look at learning to let go and let God. Robin Jones Gunn, with typical excellence, includes humor and angst, history and progress, love and the things that test it. Dotted with wonderful geographical and historical detail, it’s a beautiful snapshot of friendship—what it means to be a friend, and what it means to have one.

An unforgettable, undeniable, absolutely perfect Dutch treat!

Delia Latham

Review - The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn

by Liz Johnson

Myles Parsons is trouble. Kenzie knows it from the time he walks into her prison GED class, upsetting her routine with his piercing blue eyes and impertinent smile. Small she may be, but Kenzie Thorn is no pushover. She can be sweet, but she can be spicy as well, and the saucy redhead has no intention of allowing an inmate—even one as handsome as her new student—to intimidate her.

But Myles does much worse. When he kidnaps her, then tries to convince her he’s Myles Borden, an undercover FBI agent whose goal is to keep her safe from someone who wants her dead, Kenzie has a hard time believing him. But then he places himself in mortal danger protecting her … why would he do such a thing, if he’s really out to do her harm? When she tries to return the favor by tending to his wounds, Kenzie finds her heart could be in far more danger from Myles than her body ever was.

Myles’ plan included removing Kenzie from harm’s way, then removing himself from her vicinity, no matter how cute, angry or frightened she is. But circumstances get in the way, and he finds himself thrust into the company of the sweet and spicy GED instructor longer than is safe for his heart. As she tends to his physical wounds, and he strives to keep her safe from an unknown enemy, Myles finds himself falling in love.

Liz Johnson’s debut novel is a charmingly sweet romance with just the right dose of mystery and suspense. From prison to mountain cabin, and back to city streets that harbor dangerous unseen assailants, Ms. Johnson takes the reader on a rollercoaster ride of emotion and action that keeps the pages turning fast enough to stir up a whirlwind of anticipation and interest. A well-written tale with a number of unexpected twists along the way.

Beautifully done!

Delia Latham

Pandora's Incredible Journey by V.K. Sansone

Children's Fiction

An adventurous fantasy tale of a young polar bear's life and her struggle to survive and protect her cubs after losing her mate. A good read with a new twist!

A Tweens Book of Shorts by V.K. Sansone

Pre-Teen Fiction
Short Stories

A great read for your pre-teens with some really good short stories that will help them learn to grow and understand when they enter the adventurous and often troubling road to adulthood.

A Strange Day at the Zoo by V.K. Sansone

Children's Illustrated

A delightful children's book about a little girl named Tina who travels to the city zoo with her class. While there she discovers she can hear the animals talk, but no one else can! A must read!

Review of Prime Time by Hank Phillippi Ryan

Title: Prime Time
Author: Hank Phillippi Ryan
ISBN # 978-0-7783-2717-2
Publisher: MIRA Books
Date: 2009

About the Author:

Award-winning investigative reporter Hank Phillippi Ryan is on the air at Boston’s NBC affiliate. Her work has resulted in new laws, people sent to prison, homes removed from foreclosure and millions of dollars in restitution. Along with her twenty-six Emmy and ten Edward R. Murrow Awards, Hank has won dozens of other regional, national and international journalism honors for her hard-hitting investigations. Hank began her television career reporting and anchoring the news in Indianapolis and Atlanta. She’s also worked as a proofreader, a radio reporter, a legislative aide in the United States Senate and—in a two-year stint as editorial assistant at Rolling Stone magazine—helped organize presidential campaign coverage for Hunter S. Thompson. She and her husband live just outside Boston.

About the Book:

In the cutthroat world of television journalism, seasoned reporter Charlotte McNally knows that she'd better pull out all the stops or kiss her job goodbye. But it's her life that might be on the line when she learns that an innocent-looking e-mail offer resulted in murder, mayhem and a multimillion-dollar fraud ring.

All too soon her investigation leads her straight to Josh Gelston, who is a little too helpful and a lot too handsome. Charlie might have a nose for news, but men are a whole other matter. Now she has to decide whether she can trust Josh…before she ends up as the next lead story.

Review:

“...you’re only as good as your last story.” Investigative reporter Charlotte McNally, better known as “Charlie”, is forty-something now and in order to keep her job, she has to stay on top of the younger generation clamoring for her position. With sweeps coming up, she needs something big and isn’t too happy about being sent to interview a widow (where’s the story in that?) by her manager, who has made it clear if she doesn’t make a stand, this might be her last year with them. Charlie knows she’s good at her job and she wants to keep it that way.

But then the interview with the widow takes an unexpected twist. Brad Foreman’s car accident may not have been an “accident” after all! Apparently he had been sending Charlie emails and his widow wanted to know why she never returned any of his messages. With Brad’s recent spotlight and then his sudden death, combined with the messages he had sent Charlie, this all combined sent out an alarm to Charlie’s experienced gut instincts, so she checks out her emails. What she uncovers winds up being a scam—and it was also now possible that Brad Foreman’s so-called “accident”... might really have been a murder!

Charlie and her producer, Franklin (loved his character!) are on the brink of something really big. They’re sure of it! The investigation leads Charlie to Josh Gelston. But Charlie is not sure if she can trust him and to make things worse, she also can’t deny her attraction to the man.

Hank Phillippi Ryan delivers mystery, murder, romance and knowledge in the field with humor, and her familiarity of Boston makes Prime Time a riveting, first-person POV (usually a pet-peeve of mine) and I look forward to more books from this author. She’s dynamic in real life and it reflects in the dialogue and plotting of her writing as well.

A real page turner from a promising new author!



Reviewed by Cindy Bauer for Bookpleasures.com

Cindy Bauer is the author of the Memory Box Trilogy, Chasing Memories (2006 & 2008), Shades of Blue (2007 & 2008) and Crystal Clear (2009), an Inspirational Fiction series. She is an avid reader, a freelance writer and editor, and reviews books for Bookpleasures and New Leaf Press. She recently joined the staff at Visual Arts Junction and contributes articles on writing, publishing and marketing works. With the completion of her Inspirational series, Cindy plans to write in the mystery/suspense genre, which is her favorite to read and to review. Visit Cindy Bauer Books to learn more!

A Circle of Souls

Title: A Circle of Souls
Author: Preetham Grandhi
ISBN # 978-1-59955-235-4
Publisher: Sweetwater Books
Date: 2009

About the Author:

Preetham Grandhi, MD, immigrated to the United States from India to pursue a career in child and adolescent psychiatry. He currently resides in Westchester County, New York, with his family.

About the Book:

The sleepy town of Newbury, Connecticut, is shocked when a little girl is found brutally murdered. With the murderer on the loose, the police desperately look for any clues to lead to his identity. Meanwhile, a psychiatrist in a nearby hospital is also in a desperate search to find the cause of seven-year-old Naya Hastings devastating nightmares. Afraid that she might hurt herself in the midst of a torturous episode, Naya s parents have turned to the bright young doctor as their only hope. When these two situations converge, they set off an alarming chain of events. In this stunning psychological thriller, innocence gives way to evil, and trust lies forgotten in a web of deceit, fear, and murder.

Review:

In this debut psychological thriller by new author, Preetham Grandhi, a seven-year-old named Naya Hasting, now in the care of Dr. Peter Gram, a psychiatrist appears to be communicating through her dreams with recently murdered, ten-year-old, Janet Troy.

But that’s not all! Thirty years prior, there was another murder committed in almost the same manner and now the town of Newbury, Connecticut has something to worry about. Are the two murders connected? Do they have a serial killer in their midst?

Once Dr. Gram realizes Naya must know more about the recent murder of little Janet, in whatever unorthodox manner, he decides to try to help the FBI find the killer through Naya, who sketches images from her dreams and chillingly, are the only clues the FBI has in their search for this faceless, “bad man”.

Dr. Gram and FBI agent Leia Bines, an expert in cases involving children, combine their efforts and specialties in this page-turning, gripping novel. Naya also talks to the dead girl while sleepwalking and during their conversations, Janet shares snip-its of information the FBI on the case don’t have, including information never brought forth to the public on the never-solved murder three decades ago, making the case even more puzzling and the story, more intriguing.

Preetham Grandhi backs up his plotting with his own medical knowledge in psychiatrics, making the story even more fascinating and believable. With each chapter broken down into time periods during days in a week, Grandhi’s ever-twisting plot, descriptive prose and attention-grabbing dialogue will keep the reader engrossed as the author draws the reader deeper into the crevices of the mind of a disturbed child.

Also, Grandhi has masterfully blended the suspense of a thriller with the Federal agent assigned to the case and the psychological knowledge of the doctor assigned to the child whose parents have entrusted him with her care.

In the end, Dr. Gram is forced to accept the many lives a soul has actually had previously and his own past lives eventually led to the person he is today, compared to the person he was in another time, another realm. This isn’t easy for him to deal with at first.

As a debut novel, the author has done very well and I’m looking forward to future works. A definite must read!



Reviewed by Cindy Bauer for Bookpleasures.com

Cindy Bauer is the author of the Memory Box Trilogy, Chasing Memories (2006 & 2008), Shades of Blue (2007 & 2008) and Crystal Clear (2009), an Inspirational Fiction series. She is an avid reader, a freelance writer and editor, and reviews books for Bookpleasures and New Leaf Press. She recently joined the staff at Visual Arts Junction and contributes articles on writing, publishing and marketing works. With the completion of her Inspirational series, Cindy plans to write in the mystery/suspense genre, which is her favorite to read and to review. Visit Cindy Bauer Books to learn more!