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)

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/