tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15366274748772295192024-03-05T00:20:12.273-05:00A Goddess of LiteratureLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.comBlogger430125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-72127927205279924022015-09-27T15:55:00.001-04:002015-09-27T15:55:35.264-04:00Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon Final Update
<p align=justify> I really enjoyed the past couple of weeks and realize that I need to make extra effort in the future to fit more reading into my days. This may require starting up a petition to add at least 4 extra hours to each and every day so I can find some spare time. Please sign it if it comes across your desk! While I didn't finish all of my intended list of books to tackle, I am happy to say that I did, in fact, reach both of my goals for this read-a-thon! Not only did I catch up on my 2015 reading challenge I am FIVE books ahead now! *happy dance* My second goal was for my "read" shelf to exceed my "to-read" shelf, which it does! Even if only by one book, that still counts. Without further ado my final review for the read-a-thon...
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4671.The_Great_Gatsby" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="The Great Gatsby" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1438728255m/4671.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4671.The_Great_Gatsby">The Great Gatsby</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3190.F_Scott_Fitzgerald">F. Scott Fitzgerald</a><br/>192pp<br>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#3star>
<img alt="3 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnLmaOVe7gLHw9_WAijFzh1mNAXPYIbg98vq2IA8fqmjbbfTGQtAZQVfAPf1EDw_SdWNRCVdIyaJMgFCcy3cOYJapl9h1EvyvzvbOSP37ciiaY3rThnzFb6VCkn9CXiHV_tXj33NBr2kA/s320/agol3stars.png" /></a> 3 stars.<br /><br />
A sad classic tale of hypocrisy and fair weather friends.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/7228205-laurie">View all my reviews</a>
<br><br><center>Final list of books read during Read-a-thon
<table border=1>
<TR><TD>Title
</TD><TD>Author
</TD><TD>Pages
</TD><TD>Date Read
</TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Pride and Prejudice<br>and Zombies
</TD><TD>Grahame-Smith,<br>Seth
</TD><TD align=center>319
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-2-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 15, 2015</a>
</TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Haunted
</TD><TD>Cross, Willow
</TD><TD align=center>26
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-2-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 15, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Falling for Nick
</TD><TD>James, Joleen
</TD><TD align=center>217
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-3-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 16, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>We Have Always Lived<br>in the Castle
</TD><TD>Jackson, Shirley
</TD><TD align=center>146
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-4-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 17, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>The Book of Dragons
</TD><TD>Nesbit, E.
</TD><TD align=center>150
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-4-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 17, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Another Fine Myth
</TD><TD>Asprin, Robert
</TD><TD align=center>208
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-5-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 18, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>What America Was Really<br>Like in 1776
</TD><TD>Fleming,<br>Thomas J.
</TD><TD align=center>22
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-5-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 18, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>The Vampire With the<br>Dragon Tattoo
</TD><TD>Rain, J.R.
</TD><TD align=center>70
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-6-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 19, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>A Little Bit of Déjà Vu
</TD><TD>Kellogg, Laurie
</TD><TD align=center>246
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-6-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 19, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Out of Time
</TD><TD>Martin, Monique
</TD><TD align=center>294
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-8-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 21, 2015</a>
</TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Waiting For Nick
</TD><TD>Roberts, Nora
</TD><TD align=center>251
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-9-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 22, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Considering Kate
</TD><TD>Roberts, Nora
</TD><TD align=center>256
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-10-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 23, 2015</a>
</TD></TR>
<TR><TD>The ABC Murders
</TD><TD>Christie, Agatha
</TD><TD align=center>207
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-11-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 24, 2015</a>
</TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Big Driver
</TD><TD>King, Stephen
</TD><TD align=center>198
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-11-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 24, 2015</a></TD></TR>
<TR><TD>Historical Mysteries
</TD><TD>Lang, Andrew
</TD><TD align=center>311
</TD><TD><a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2015/09/day-12-of-tackle-your-tbr-read-thon.html>Sep 25, 2015</a>
</TD></TR>
<TR><TD>The Great Gatsby
</TD><TD>Fitzgerald,<br>F. Scott
</TD><TD align=center>192
</TD><TD>Sep 27, 2015
</TD></TR></table>
</center>
<br><br>
Total Books Finished: 16<br>
Total Pages Read: 3113
<p>
Thanks again to Tressa at <a href=http://www.wishfulendings.com>Wishful Endings</a> for organizing the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thonLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-50870316505269694722015-09-25T23:30:00.000-04:002015-09-26T14:09:47.010-04:00Day 12 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon
<p align=justify> Sadly, real life is intervening again and I haven't had much time for reading. I did manage to finish <i>Historical Mysteries</i>, a nonfiction account of real life mysteries which turned out to be a bit dry.</p>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8727822-historical-mysteries" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="Historical Mysteries" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1328347111m/8727822.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8727822-historical-mysteries">Historical Mysteries</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18393.Andrew_Lang">Andrew Lang</a><br/>311pp<br>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#2star>
<img alt="2 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkHK-WSaOBo40cJJ6aS1SJN2bF5xplqnLKQ3LKuucX10SvOts6AO66ATwS37W_mxOKHD_tAUsUNIQOXemhwtWHy18bVxcYzp-9z0wekBaHfsGBVAAe2sqslE7ytk8g4Ui1qneybH7zNo/s320/agol2stars.png" /></a> 2 stars.<br /><br />
Not what I expected. The mysteries may be historical and are well researched, but hardly important or much of interest.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/7228205-laurie">View all my reviews</a>
<BR><BR>
Total Books Finished: 15<br>
Total Pages Read: 2921Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-13440366180586786782015-09-24T23:30:00.000-04:002015-09-25T14:30:32.307-04:00Day 11 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon <p align=justify> Today I'm going to cover not only my update for the day but my findings for today's challenge: A Scavenger hunt! Fun, fun! <a href=https://princessicaofbooks.wordpress.com/2015/09/24/bookish-scavenger-hunt-tackletbr-read-a-thon-challenge-host/>Princessica of Books</a> posted this challenge. Here are my findings for it...
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<h2>Books that You Have Read at Least Twice!</h2>
<i>Pride and Prejudice</i> by Jane Austin<br>
<i>Count of Monte Cristo</i> by Alexandre Dumas<br>
<i>Bid Time Return</i> by Richard Matheson<br>
All of the Harry Potter books by J.K. Rowling<br>
We read <i>A Christmas Carol</i> by Charles Dickens every Christmas and I've read many of his other books several times.<br>
<br>
<h2>A Cover-Lust Book (a book that has a beautiful cover)!</h2>
<center><table><TR><TD>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16160701-fire-country" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="Fire Country (The Country Saga, #1)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1358390068m/16160701.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16160701-fire-country">Fire Country</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3167424.David_Estes">David Estes</a><br/>
<TD align=left><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15925.The_Guardian" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="The Guardian" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1388195339m/15925.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15925.The_Guardian">The Guardian</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2345.Nicholas_Sparks">Nicholas Sparks</a><br/>
</table></center>
<h2>A Book You Always Recommend!</h2>
<i>Count of Monte Cristo</i> by Alexandre Dumas - I love this story. Revenge is a dish best served cold, yet this book tells a tale of where Edmond merely gives his "victims" enough rope to hang themselves by. If not for their own greed and/or misdeeds they would have been unscathed by his vengeance.
<br><br>
<h2>A Book That Has A Kick-Butt Female Protagonist!</h2>
Hands down, I'd have to answer Adele from David Estes' Dwellers series (<i>Moon Dwellers</i>, <i>Star Dwellers</i>, <i>Sun Dwellers</i>, <i>Earth Dwellers</i>). The entire series is just incredible.
<br><br>
Now, for my update. I finished the Agatha Christie book that I started yesterday and began <i>Historical Mysteries</i> by Andrew Lang.
<br><br>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/655780.The_ABC_Murders" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="The ABC Murders" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1298653891m/655780.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/655780.The_ABC_Murders">The ABC Murders</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/123715.Agatha_Christie">Agatha Christie</a><br/>207pp
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#3star>
<img alt="3 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnLmaOVe7gLHw9_WAijFzh1mNAXPYIbg98vq2IA8fqmjbbfTGQtAZQVfAPf1EDw_SdWNRCVdIyaJMgFCcy3cOYJapl9h1EvyvzvbOSP37ciiaY3rThnzFb6VCkn9CXiHV_tXj33NBr2kA/s320/agol3stars.png" /></a> 3 stars.<br /><br />
While I have enjoyed Christie's ingenuity, I really don't care much for Poirot and I think I've finally put my finger on why. I think it is the fact that it annoys me that there are phrases and entire sentences that Poirot mutters in French that I have no means of easily translating. Then I feel as though I may be missing something - which is not at all useful in mysteries.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/7228205-laurie">View all my reviews</a>
<br><br>
Total Books Finished: 14<br>
Total Pages Read: 2610
Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-31133028986108269872015-09-23T23:30:00.000-04:002015-09-24T14:13:50.675-04:00Day 10 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon <p align=justify> I finished two books and reached one of my goals! Woot! YAY ME! I am now back on track for my 2015 reading challenge. Now to stay that way :-s
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/114148.Considering_Kate" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="Considering Kate (The Stanislaskis: Those Wild Ukrainians #6)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1386922903m/114148.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/114148.Considering_Kate">Considering Kate</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/625.Nora_Roberts">Nora Roberts</a><br/>Book 6 in The Stanislaskis: Those Wild Ukrainians series<br>256pp<br>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!<br /><br />
I've out grown my joy of romances but I must admit I am enjoying this series. Can't claim that it is because Roberts adds realism for all the characters are abnormally gorgeous, talented, and end up famous in whatever career they choose, but she does combine quirky humor to entertaining situations.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22844168-big-driver" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="Big Driver" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1429726367m/22844168.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22844168-big-driver">Big Driver</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3389.Stephen_King">Stephen King</a><br/>198pp<br>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!<br /><br />
Was OK, King is brilliant of course, if ever so creepy. Narrator grated on my nerves with some of the voices she used, but still better than some audio book narrators.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/7228205-laurie">View all my reviews</a>
<BR><br>Total Books Finished: 13<br>
Total Pages Read: 2403Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-41780948174771420512015-09-22T23:30:00.000-04:002015-09-23T13:41:00.279-04:00Day 9 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/177392.Waiting_For_Nick" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="Waiting For Nick (The Stanislaskis: Those Wild Ukrainians #5)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1172448297m/177392.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/177392.Waiting_For_Nick">Waiting For Nick</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/625.Nora_Roberts">Nora Roberts</a><br/>Book 5 in The Stanislaskis: Those Wild Ukrainians series<br>251pp<br>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!<br /><br />
It was cute, plenty of laugh out loud humor and very little garbage drama usually found in romances.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/7228205-laurie">View all my reviews</a>
<br/><br/>
Total Books Finished: 11<br/>
Total Pages Read: 1949
Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-75124905078877263902015-09-21T23:30:00.000-04:002015-09-24T14:12:38.585-04:00Day 8 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon
<p align=justify> Yeah, I know, I didn't update yesterday, but I had nothing to update as Sunday ended up being a very slow day for reading and I didn't finish any books at all. But I am back on track and finished a paranormal fantasy that every time I'd see it on my Kindle would think "Ooh, I wanna read that soon!"</p>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8122928-out-of-time" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="Out of Time (Out of Time, #1)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1327093906m/8122928.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8122928-out-of-time">Out of Time</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3512875.Monique_Martin">Monique Martin</a><br/>Book 1 of Out of Time series<br>294pp<br>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!<br /><br />
Couple of nice twists, though I did see one of them coming. Still a great read that makes me wish I had more of this series.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/7228205-laurie">View all my reviews</a>
<p align=justify> I'm going to stray a bit from my intended list as I received some books from the library that I had put on hold but hadn't expected to receive during the read-a-thon. After Finishing <i>Out of time</i> I started <i>Waiting for Nick</i> by Nora Roberts, the 5th book in the series that I read the week before starting the read-a-thon.
<br><br>
Total Books Finished: 10<br>
Total Pages Read: 1698Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-85403674820804199002015-09-19T23:30:00.000-04:002015-09-20T14:00:58.460-04:00Day 6 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13598949-a-little-bit-of-d-j-vu" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="A Little Bit of Déjà Vu (Return to Redemption, #1)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1334238242m/13598949.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13598949-a-little-bit-of-d-j-vu">A Little Bit of Déjà Vu</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5670953.Laurie_Kellogg">Laurie Kellogg</a><br/>Book 1 of Redemption series<br>Genre: Romance<br>246pp<br>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!<br /><br />
Excellent, and only ONE eye roll!<a name='more'></a>
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9309458-the-vampire-with-the-dragon-tattoo" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1328356434m/9309458.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9309458-the-vampire-with-the-dragon-tattoo">The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5753883.J_R_Rain">J.R. Rain</a><br/>Genre: Fantasy<br>70pp<br>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!<br /><br />
I wasn't sure if this was going to be a parody of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, which it wasn't. This short story is a good brief sample of Rain's writing for those unfamiliar to his work.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/7228205-laurie">View all my reviews</a>
<p align=justify> I also listened to about 20 chapters of <i>Big Driver</i> by Stephen King and found myself disappointed yet again that I purchased an audio version of a story that I'd already read. *sigh*
<br><br>
Total Books Finished: 9<br>
Total Pages Read: 1404
Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-26629661849061501622015-09-18T23:30:00.000-04:002015-09-19T13:25:12.611-04:00Day 5 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/64401.Another_Fine_Myth" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="Another Fine Myth (Myth Adventures, #1)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1389251108m/64401.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/64401.Another_Fine_Myth">Another Fine Myth</a><br>by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/65471.Robert_Asprin">Robert Asprin</a><br/>
208pp<br/><br/>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!<br /><br />
This was really good, better than I'd expected, to be honest. Was surprised to find the author lives in my home state - which is always a nice surprise. Only bad thing about this book is that I'd love to read more and not sure how many books of this series that I have. Fairly sure that I don't have all of it, sadly.
<br/><br/>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/7228205-laurie">View all my reviews</a>
<p>
Total Books Finished: 7<br>
Total Pages Read: 1088Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-51773174118141776962015-09-17T23:30:00.000-04:002015-09-19T13:50:53.516-04:00Day 4 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon
<h2>We Have Always Lived in the Castle</h2>
by Shirley Jackson<br>
146pp<br>
<p align=justify> People can be so cruel even if they may eventually regret their cruelty.</p>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!
<BR><BR>
<h2>The Book of Dragons</h2>
by E. Nesbit<br>
150pp
<p align=justify> Nice compilation of classic fantasy short stories that involve dragons in one way or another. </p>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#3star>
<img alt="3 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnLmaOVe7gLHw9_WAijFzh1mNAXPYIbg98vq2IA8fqmjbbfTGQtAZQVfAPf1EDw_SdWNRCVdIyaJMgFCcy3cOYJapl9h1EvyvzvbOSP37ciiaY3rThnzFb6VCkn9CXiHV_tXj33NBr2kA/s320/agol3stars.png" /></a> 3 stars.
<BR><BR>
<h2>What America Was Really Like in 1776</h2>
by Thomas J. Fleming<br>
22pp
<p align=justify> I had expected just a brief history mainly regarding political atmosphere but it also includes info about economy, population, diet, and other common everyday things that aren't normally mentioned in history. </p>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!
<p>
Total Books Finished: 6<br>
Total Pages Read: 880
Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-58184483192857887452015-09-16T23:07:00.000-04:002015-09-19T13:50:53.522-04:00Day 3 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon<h1>Falling for Nick</h1>
by Joleen James
217 pp
<p align=justify> There's no way this book is only 217 pages, the way that it dragged on and on. With this book, I started a new rating system that I've been toying with. I made a note every time that I rolled my eyes at the dialogue or story line. This book netted 22 eye rolls.
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<p align=justify> Everyone thought that Nick didn't deserve Clea. She was rich, he was the town bad boy. Nick's brother Billy was the only one who felt that Clea didn't deserve Nick. I think I'd hafta agree with Billy.
<BR><center>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#2star>
<img alt="2 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkHK-WSaOBo40cJJ6aS1SJN2bF5xplqnLKQ3LKuucX10SvOts6AO66ATwS37W_mxOKHD_tAUsUNIQOXemhwtWHy18bVxcYzp-9z0wekBaHfsGBVAAe2sqslE7ytk8g4Ui1qneybH7zNo/s320/agol2stars.png" /></a> 2 stars.
</center>
<p align=justify> I also began my 4th book <i>We Have Always Lived in the Castle</i> by Shirley Jackson.
Total for Read-a-thon so far ... 562 pp. Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-84516393875553770082015-09-15T22:42:00.002-04:002015-09-19T13:50:53.527-04:00Day 2 of the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon
<p align=justify> I started off slow yesterday, having had to go back to work as half expected, and only got about 2/3 of the way through my first book, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. I finished it this morning, plowed through my second book - Haunted by Willow Cross which is shortish but has been on my TBR since I read her Birthright series back in 2011, and started my third book Falling for Nick by Joleen James. <a name='more'></a>
<p>
So, in a nutshell ...<p>
<h3>Pride and Prejudice and Zombies</h3>by Seth Grahame-Smith<br>319 pp.<br> <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!
<p align=justify> On one hand, I read this with the same abject horror that I watched the remake of Willy Wonka, thinking OMG what did they do to this classic story? On the other hand, if read with tongue in cheek, some of the additions to the storyline may be found humorous, if not entirely fitting. But if you are going to read a romance, you might as well liven it up with zombies right?
<p>
<h2>Haunted</h2>
by Willow Cross<br>
26 pp.<br>
<a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#3star>
<img alt="3 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnLmaOVe7gLHw9_WAijFzh1mNAXPYIbg98vq2IA8fqmjbbfTGQtAZQVfAPf1EDw_SdWNRCVdIyaJMgFCcy3cOYJapl9h1EvyvzvbOSP37ciiaY3rThnzFb6VCkn9CXiHV_tXj33NBr2kA/s320/agol3stars.png" /></a> 3 stars.
<p align=justify> Maybe not as fascinating as Willow Cross's fictional stories, still a pleasant entertainment when you are short on time. Cross recounts true life experiences of brushes with the paranormal.
<BR><BR>
Total for Read-a-thon so far ... 345 pp.Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-52122375116077858442015-09-12T16:22:00.000-04:002015-09-15T22:56:02.502-04:00Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon<center><table><TR><TD>
<TD align=center>
<a href=http://www.wishfulendings.com/2015/07/tackle-your-tbr-read-thon-sign-up.html><img src=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3xv-kwroNoma-jKd2oVET57KYJIjzVa-fKBgsi7Vl1e-uc-o2pQK_SstlxzYxx_IzTxHCGnvUklaq1LFlCZFCZ4CB4PbZ8ZATbDsxproTvD20cRHSmKm16sEbOgnSr9qYTm4UXl-cSII/s400/Tackle+Your+TBR+2015.png></a>
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<p align=justify> Yes, the real world has gotten in the way of my reading once again. I have gotten out of the habit of reviewing and blogging since the majority of he books that I read these days are beta/ARC versions and not published yet. I have actually been reading, and have on occasion actually emailed some assorted thoughts and perceptions to myself to turn into a rview at some point, but sadly never found the time to do so - not yet at any rate. But, I visited goodreads one day and saw that a fiend had joined a group for a read-a-thon and thought hey, maybe that is precisely what I need to motivate me to read more than I have been. So I'm going to give this a whirl.
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<p align=justify> I had stated my goal to either catch up on my reading challenge (I was 18 books behind) or to get my "To read" shelf lower than my "Read" shelf, once again - which would require reading 21 books. PHEW! That's a pretty hefty goal even if it is a 2 week event. What I hadn't thought about was that anything I read before the marathon started would acually decrease my goals, so I am going to stick to 18-21 books as my goal.
<p align=justify> I set up a special shelf on my goodreads. However, I did this using the goodreads app on my phone and auto-correct did not care much for "thon" as a word and did what it did best and corrected it. I thought it was cute and left it as read-a-ton which is just as apt. I scoured my TBR list for those books that were first added - back in 2011. Admittedly I avoided those books over 400 pages but also didn't pad my shelf with a bunch of books under 50 pages either. I have my 21 books selected and on this shelf, ready to go. As usual, my tastes are eclectic - you will find classics, romances, thrillers, horrors, mysteries, and nonfiction on my list.
<ol>
<li>The ABC Murders - Christie, Agatha - 207pp</li>
<li>Along Came a Spider - Patterson, James - 435pp </li>
<li>Another Fine Myth (Myth Adventures, #1) - Asprin, Robert - 208pp</li>
<li>Big Driver - King, Stephen - 198pp</li>
<li>The Book of Dragons - Nesbit, E. - 150pp</li>
<li>Ethan Frome - Wharton, Edith - 89pp</li>
<li>Falling for Nick - James, Joleen - 217pp</li>
<li>The God Project - Saul, John - 280pp</li>
<li>The Great Gatsby - Fitzgerald, F. Scott - 192pp</li>
<li>Haunted - Cross, Willow - 26pp</li>
<li>Her Secret Bodyguard - Crews, Misha - 157pp</li>
<li>Historical Mysteries - Lang, Andrew - 311pp</li>
<li>Innocent Little Crimes - Lakin, C.S. - 235pp</li>
<li>A Little Bit of Déjà Vu (Return to Redemption, #1) - Kellogg, Laurie - 246pp</li>
<li>Murder On the Orient Express - Christie, Agatha - 213pp</li>
<li>Out of Time (Out of Time, #1) - Martin, Monique - 294pp</li>
<li>Pride and Prejudice and Zombies - Grahame-Smith, Seth - 319pp</li>
<li>Titanic with ZOMBIES - Brown, Richard - 241pp</li>
<li>The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo - Rain, J.R. - 70pp</li>
<li>We Have Always Lived in the Castle - Jackson, Shirley - 146pp</li>
<li>What America Was Really Like in 1776 - Fleming, Thomas J. - 22pp</li>
</ol>
Alphabetical Order, not necessarily the order that they'll be read in - it depends on when my daughter returns my kindle! Wow, that is a total of 4256pp. I'll need to read an average of 304pp per day.
<BR>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-15633845353383282032014-12-25T06:11:00.000-05:002014-12-26T02:46:00.585-05:00Happy Holidays!
<p align=justify> First off, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. I would also like to thank those who have stuck with me over this past year while I have been virtually absent from my blog posts.
<p align=justify> I have suspected for quite some time that I was burnt out, but this morning I realized that it goes beyond just being burnt out. I have been reading the <i>Maze Runner</i> series, and when I finished <i>The Scorch Trials</i> just moments ago, my first thought was that I'm so tired of reaching the last page of a book and finding no conclusion. Once again I was faced with a storyline that was leading into the next book instead of concluding the current book. Instead of that sense of accomplishment that I completed a book, I felt - well, annoyed. It is early Christmas morning and I won't be able to get my hands on the next book in the series for several days most likely. I'm just going to be stuck in limbo waiting until I can read the next book - IF that book even gives a conclusion and not just a lead in for the next book. It is all so very frustrating.
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<p align=justify> Why is it so hard for writers today to give readers an ending? Do they lack the confidence that their story, world, and/or characters are strong enough to keep an audience coming back without the additional hook of a cliff hanger? Do they not have the balls to just publish a 2000 page manuscript - because that is basically what modern day trilogies are; merely very long stories that the authors have broken up into three smaller books. I really hope that it is not actually the fact that authors are breaking long stories up into a series of incomplete novellas simply so that they can sell multiple books versus just one sale.
<p align=justify> I don't know what motivates an author to use cliff hangers and I realize that I no longer care. I'm done wasting my time reading books written by authors who cannot take the time to provide an ending to each and every one of their novels. I am not going to shy away from books that are part of series since I realize that it is quite possible to write a series of related stories without leaving an audience hanging; even if it seems most authors are no longer aware of this fact. I am however going to stop indulging writers, it is very reminiscent of boyfriends that just keep stringing you along, with no end in site. I have enough unnecessary garbage in my every day life without adding any extra frustration in what is supposed to be my relaxation and fun time.
<p align=justify> I strongly believe that it is this frustration that has led me to become so slack in reviewing books. I find it very hard to say anything good about such works while it wouldn't be entirely honest to give them bad ratings. The stories are excellent, very compelling and quite enjoyable when I finally make it to the end where everything clicks into place and starts making sense. My New Year's resolution is that I will resume reviewing books, to call out those annoying cliff hangers and warn readers to avoid the books that contain them.
Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-80157068457360943212014-09-29T10:00:00.000-04:002014-09-30T19:59:36.850-04:00Why Adults Don’t Read Fiction - Featured Author Guest Post<h2> by Jeff Gunhus</h2>
<p align=justify> More likely than not, if you are reading this on a blog about books and reading, you’re immediately wondering what I’m talking about. Chances are that you’re an adult and that you are not only a reader of fiction, but perhaps a devourer of fiction. That, my friend, puts you squarely into the minority.
<p align=justify> A recent poll showed that 41% of Americans had not read a book of fiction in
the last year. Another 25% had only read between 1-5 books. Making a (very
mathematically convenient) 66% of Americans having read less than 5 books last
year. Ouch.
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<p align=justify> This subject came up at recent dinner party where a friend of mine shamed the
other dinner guests into admitting that while they had purchased one or two of my
books, most of them had not yet read them. It was his house (and his wine), so I only
half-heartedly asked him to leave the poor people alone. Even so, the excuses came
fast and furious.
<p align=justify> “No time in the day.”
<p align=justify> “I barely have time to read my emails.”
<p align=justify> “It’s not just your book, I haven’t read any books.”
<p align=justify> It was that last comment that got me Googling for a poll on the subject.
<p align=justify> Unfortunately, pollsters in the 1940s and 50s were more concerned with questions
about a world at war and nuclear holocaust than the reading habits of the American
adult, so it’s hard to say how different this 66% number is compared to our past
versions of ourselves. But it just feels like it’s not good. Even if it were the same as if
was five decades ago, we still ought to do better.
<p align=justify> To that end, here are my reasons why adults ought to grab a book and get to
reading.
<blockquote>
1) It’s fun. Once you get into a book, you remember how much it actually was to
be totally engrossed in a good, well-written story. It’s awesome. <br><br>
2) It’s easy. With electronic devices in every pocket, you can read anything,
anywhere. How liberating. <br><br>
3) It makes you think. Even the pulpiest of novels will make to you pause
and think about the world outside your daily experience. A book like <i>The
Alchemist</i> might just change your life. <br><br>
4) It’s better than TV. An hour-long drama can’t compete with the depth and
breadth of a novel. How many movies have you watched and thought, “Wow,
that was so much better than the book”? Get my point?<br><br>
5) It reduces stress. A great book will give you a deep, meditative state as you
live in a different world for a while. Go there and enjoy it.
</blockquote>
<p align=justify> As I said, chances are you are one of the 33% already reading 5+ books a year. If
that’s the case, then forward this to your friends who aren’t reading enough. Based
on the statistics, you have a lot of forwarding to do!
Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-81220564182616969432014-09-24T10:00:00.000-04:002014-09-24T10:00:05.206-04:00Jack Templar Monster Hunter - Featured Author Review<center><table><TR><TD><a target=blank href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009SRYACA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009SRYACA&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=TNLDF42TQFOBOSF3"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B009SRYACA&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art of Jack Templar Monster Hunter by Jeff Gunhus"></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=warlyscont-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B009SRYACA" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>Jack Templar Monster Hunter<br>by Jeff Gunhus<br>The Templar Chronicles #1<br>Genres: Fantasy, Children,<br> Action Adventure
</table></center>
<p align=justify> Jack comes from a long line of monster hunters. Unfortunately, he is unaware of this fact as he is an orphan and doesn't remember his parents at all. There is even more bad news for Jack, on the eve of his 14th birthday he learns that monsters will come crawling out of the woodwork with one goal in mind: targeting the powerful monster hunter. But they don't want to kill him, oh no, that would be too easy. They want to torture him until he begs to die and be put out of his misery.
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<p align=justify> Author Jeff Gunhus wrote this book with his own reluctant reader in mind. Aimed at kids within the middle school age group, this book is incredibly engaging. The story is told in first person; narrated by our hero, Jack Templar. Yet, at times Jack will interrupt himself to speak directly to his audience, which I found quite endearing, especially when he is warning the reader about the evils that lurk in the world.
<p align=justify> If I still had kids within the targeted audience I would definitely get the books in this series for them. Even if my motive was only so that I could "preview" the stories before passing them on. I would imagine that this age bracket is very difficult to write for but it is my opinion that Gunhus has found an excellent balance where the action and creepiness is not too horrifying and yet not obviously watered down.
<BR><center>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#5star>
<img alt="5 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrilnU-6TSeM2hGddq9oUM9_aGi9Zi4Jw0VKU3pHTjxasa5Z8vPK_TV0it1otnkzycv_LJaX1qKMIU4od4iyA6h1wyUqggfmwfUjvQ7n1p4NQmb4ufsA1YNjdmA8vr8BtCYpn6Q8owbdI/s320/agol5stars.png" /></a> 5 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-64132599850378423392014-09-17T14:27:00.000-04:002014-09-17T14:27:00.154-04:00Night Terror by Jeff Gunhus - Book Review<center><table><TR><TD><a target=new href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MQYUAEY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00MQYUAEY&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=R24IVX7PPXZCK6WY"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00MQYUAEY&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="Book cover art for Night Terror by Jeff Gunhus"></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=warlyscont-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00MQYUAEY" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>Night Terror<br>by Jeff Gunhus<br>Book 2 Night Chill Series<br>Genres: Thriller, Horror, Paranormal
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<p align=justify> It is ten years later and the local newspaper marks the anniversary with a memorial article of those lost in what the town views as a simple cave in. Not only are emotions and memories stirred up within the family of those lost and affected by what really happened in the underground caves, but we find that an evil paranormal entity has just been waiting for Sarah to grow stronger and is now stirring as well.
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<p align=justify> This is an excellent follow up to Gunhus's <i>Night Chill</i> book. It is just as eerie, chilling, and even harder to put down - if possible - than the first book in this series. <i>Night Terror</i> is scheduled for release on October 1st and currently available for preorder on Amazon for only 99¢. I highly recommend this series to all readers who enjoy things that go bump in the night, especially of the paranormal variety, but I suggest that you may want to turn on some extra lights if reading it at night!
<BR><center>
I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#5star>
<img alt="5 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 5 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-8330389168487359172014-09-10T10:00:00.000-04:002014-09-10T10:00:05.892-04:00Killer Within by Jeff Gunhus - Featured Author Book Review<center><table><TR><TD><a target=new href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IYX1YKK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00IYX1YKK&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=CXQMYQCZQ3SAHHLB"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00IYX1YKK&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art of Killer Within by Jeff Gunhus"></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=warlyscont-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00IYX1YKK" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>Killer Within<br>by Jeff Gunhus<br>Genres: Suspense, Thriller
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<p align=justify> Arnie Milhouse is a wimp. Brow beaten by his wife and resigned to a dead end job, Arnie has accepted his mediocre role in life with little resistance. Until one day when Arnie has a life changing experience, which wasn't necessarily a change for the better.
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<p align=justify> This title has a sub-text that it is an Allison McNeil Thriller, implying that it is the first book in a new series by author Jeff Gunhus. If such is the case, this novel foreshadows an incredibly promising series. Allison McNeil is a courageous and intelligent leading lady, though she is damaged but dealing with the ghosts of her past with inspiring inner strength.
<p align=justify> This novel is recommend to all readers who love thrillers and intrigue, and especially to those who value the role of strong female characters. I can't express how much that I look forward to reading more about the life of Allison McNeil.
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I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#5star>
<img alt="5 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrilnU-6TSeM2hGddq9oUM9_aGi9Zi4Jw0VKU3pHTjxasa5Z8vPK_TV0it1otnkzycv_LJaX1qKMIU4od4iyA6h1wyUqggfmwfUjvQ7n1p4NQmb4ufsA1YNjdmA8vr8BtCYpn6Q8owbdI/s320/agol5stars.png" /></a> 5 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-77803191436994913582014-09-05T10:00:00.000-04:002014-09-05T22:00:57.678-04:00The Big Wide Calm - Fun Read Friday Book Review<center><table><TR><TD><a target=blank href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K6QI0PU/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00K6QI0PU&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=OLMVARJZVBJXYIW3"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00K6QI0PU&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art for The Big Wide Calm by Rich Marcello"></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=warlyscont-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00K6QI0PU" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>The Big Wide Calm<br>by Rich Marcello<br>Genre: Drama
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<p align=justify> The big wide calm can mean different things to different people. Basically it is that place in life where you are completely relaxed and happy with where you are in life. As with most things in life, it isn't always about the destination but with the journey to get there. Singer/songwriter, Paige Plant is working on her first album. She believes she is destined to be famous. But not just famous, she is striving to be one of those artists that cross generations and whose music is cherished for years to come. Her songs are based on her definition of the big wide calm and what she feels is required to reach it.
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<p align=justify> Full of quirky characters, humor, and theories about love and life to make you go hmmm; <i>The Big Wide Calm</i> makes an excellent choice for a fun weekend read.
<p align=justify> Though I do review many YA books, <i>The Big Wide Calm</i> is not easily recommended for young adult readers. The sexual content is milder than what any child can find on television these days, but I would still would hesitate to suggest it to anyone under 18.
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I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#5star>
<img alt="5 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrilnU-6TSeM2hGddq9oUM9_aGi9Zi4Jw0VKU3pHTjxasa5Z8vPK_TV0it1otnkzycv_LJaX1qKMIU4od4iyA6h1wyUqggfmwfUjvQ7n1p4NQmb4ufsA1YNjdmA8vr8BtCYpn6Q8owbdI/s320/agol5stars.png" /></a> 5 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-69010339308741314832014-09-03T10:00:00.000-04:002014-09-05T22:01:15.595-04:00Night Chill by Jeff Gunhus - Featured Author Book Review<center><table><TR><TD><a target=new href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CRKPTL6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00CRKPTL6&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=O3V4UHI4AYGLO2S5"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00CRKPTL6&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art of Night Chill by Jeff Gunhus"></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=warlyscont-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00CRKPTL6" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>Night Chill<br>by Jeff Gunhus<br>Book 1 in Night Chill series<br>Genres: Horror, Paranormal,<br> Suspense, Fantasy
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<p align=justify> I see a lot of book synopses that claim works by lesser known authors are King-like or that their writing style is similar to Koontz. I always take these with a grain of salt. But in this case, it is very true. The plot was so deeply layered and well thought out I was half expecting a scene where someone spots Pennywise while driving through Derry, or of someone eating a bologna and Bermuda onion sandwich (has anyone else noticed King's character's obsession with this sandwich?), or that Jack was committed to Juniper Hill Asylum because this book does have that amazing degree of creepiness that Stephen King has perfected. Then again, there IS a yellow lab, which reminds me of the golden retriever which Koontz often has traipsing through his plots.
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<p align=justify> This is a dangerous book of "one more". One more chapter and I'll do the laundry. One more chapter before I start dinner. One more chapter and I'll call and order a pizza delivery. One more chapter ... eh, the kids are old enough to make themselves a sandwich when they get hungry. Be prepared to have a very unproductive day because this book is incredibly fast paced and there is no good place to set it down and walk away. I was constantly wanting to find out what would happen next and was not disappointed. There were quite a few editing errors but the storyline more than made up for the annoyance.
<p align=justify> During September you can buy <i>Night Chill</i> and also preorder the sequel <i>Night Terror</i> from <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Jeff-Gunhus/e/B001KH8TKU/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&qid=1409731555&sr=1-2-ent&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=QEQPW6SMITWTRG4G">Amazon</a> for only 99¢
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I give it <a href="http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#pyol"><img border="0" align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7aag_ONjvWoo_Ab17hUdiFJDBiTp_64Rn0UA34hSG4y8sMR8ou8nAXy_JyqZ_R9aP6oGlX3UG-oP-NklsvcFIKB1L1RkZRvKAqAG85LS2ury-U24-YO7uj-v05pkPclj5JpH59hKfiR8/s320/pyol.png" alt="PYOL review graphic" /></a> my personal PYOL rating!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-66092434708805379342014-09-01T10:00:00.000-04:002014-09-30T19:38:34.435-04:00Jeff Gunhus - Featured Author September 2014<center><table><TR><TD>
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Jeff-Gunhus/e/B001KH8TKU/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&qid=1409343787&sr=1-2-ent&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=YJYO32FCPGQZEDKA"><img src="http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/f9/8a/e146b4ef757c0ac1d188cc.L._V401554163_SX200_.jpg" alt="picture of author Jeff Gunhus" border=0 width=200></a>
<TD align=left><h1>Jeff Gunhus</h1> <b>Main genres:</b><br> Horror, Fantasy<br>
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<p align=justify> Jeff Gunhus lives in Maryland with his wife and five children. He began work on the Jack Templar series in an effort to get his reluctant reader interested in books. As a person who loves to read, and mother to children who needed a bit of encouragement to enjoy this pastime, I am always interested and supportive of quality stories targeted at this incredibly important age group.
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<p align=justify> Gunhus has also written several non-fiction motivational career guides such as <i>No Parachute Required</i> and <i>The Career Series</i>. Jeff creates such in depth stories consisting of many layers that he has been compared to both Stephen King and Dean Koontz, with good reason. For more information about this month's featured author feel free to visit his websites <a href=http://www.jeffgunhus.com target=new>Jeff Gunhus Author Site</a> and/or <a href=http://www.jacktemplar.com/ target=new>Jack Templar Monster Hunter</a> or his <a href=ww.facebook.com/JeffGunhusAuthor target=new>Facebook</a> or <a href=https://twitter.com/Jeffgunhus target=new>Twitter</a> pages.
<BR><BR>This month I plan to review:
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<TD valign=top width=25% align=center><a target=New href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CRKPTL6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00CRKPTL6&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=V46AAI4M5RJ25D74"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00CRKPTL6&Format=_SL110_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art for Night Chill by Jeff Gunhus"></a>
<br><a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.net/2014/09/night-chill-by-jeff-gunhus-featured.html>Read review</a>
<TD valign=top align=center><a target=New href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IYX1YKK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00IYX1YKK&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=NGY7ULLKX3QANOS4"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00IYX1YKK&Format=_SL110_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art for Killer Within by Jeff Gunhus"></a>
<br><a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.net/2014/09/killer-within-by-jeff-gunhus-featured.html>Read review</a>
<TD valign=top width=25% align=center><a target=New href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MQYUAEY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00MQYUAEY&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=6CQXE5D4CWLTUEHX"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00MQYUAEY&Format=_SL110_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art for Night Terror by Jeff Gunhus"></a>
<br><a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.net/2014/09/night-terror-by-jeff-gunhus-book-review.html>Read Review</a>
<TD valign=top width=25% align=center><a target=New href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009SRYACA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009SRYACA&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=KDHTQ6UKJG6XNYV3"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B009SRYACA&Format=_SL110_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="Book cover art for Jack Templar, Monster Hunter by Jeff Gunhus"></a>
<br><a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.net/2014/09/jack-templar-monster-hunter-featured.html>Read Review</a>
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Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-88433700377655291842014-08-27T10:00:00.000-04:002014-08-27T17:05:43.645-04:00The Consecration of Jacob Jordaens - Book Review<center><table><TR><TD><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HW1NDP4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00HW1NDP4&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=GFEJK2SWQEHAE2TC"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00HW1NDP4&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" ></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=warlyscont-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00HW1NDP4" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>The Consecration of Jacob Jordaens<br>by Michael Brown<br>Genres: Paranormal, Thriller
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<p align=justify> Jake Jordaens moves from New Orleans to Providence, Rhode Island with his adoptive mother Lexis. At the tender age of 19 Jake is struggling with paranormal visions, college admissions, and his own identity - due to being adopted and also confusion as to his own sexual persuasion. Combine all this with falling into an underground ring of mafia run illegal activities primarily consisting of child pornography marketing both videos and children to pedophiles, and poor Jake has quite a lot on his plate.
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<p align=justify> This was a very quick read, most of it in one sitting as it was a bit hard to put down. This book is not for young adults nor the faint of heart as to the illicit subject matter that it does cover. While the descriptions are not entirely graphic, the author does a good job of providing the reader with mental images that could be hard for sensitive or squeamish readers to deal with.
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I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-45040065520643977522014-08-10T10:00:00.000-04:002014-08-10T14:07:06.929-04:00Vic: Never Give up - Serial Sunday Review<center><table><TR><TD><a target=new href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MC3RTBG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00MC3RTBG&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00MC3RTBG&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art of Vic: Never Give Up by Jerry Gill" ></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=warlyscont-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00MC3RTBG" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>Vic: Never Give Up<br>by Jerry Gill<br>Book 3 Vic Challenger Series<br>Genres: Action Adventure, Romance,<br> Historical Romance, Fantasy
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<p align=justify> Vic Challenger returns for another adventure in her quest to find Nu, the son of Nu. This time Vic and her friend Lin are headed to Scotland and London in search of an artist that Vic believes to be the reincarnation of Nu. Expecting a nice, quiet, fun vacation; the pair of adventurers stumble upon slave traders, strange beasts, and much more danger than they had anticipated. But never fear, for these super women are more than up to the challenge.
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<p align=justify> With well formed storylines, author Jerry Gill weaves an incredible tale full of interesting characters, plot twists, historical tidbits, and nonstop action. I find that I can't help but root for Vic as she searches for her long lost love of so many lives past. Unlike many authors of today, Gill manages to hold a reader's attention throughout the series without reverting to the ever present cliff hanger. I definitely recommend this series to any reader and cannot wait to find out what happens next.
<p align=justify> If you missed my previous reviews of this series, here are the links to the first book <a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2013/09/vic-time-doesnt-matter-book-review.html>Vic: Time Doesn't Matter</a> and the sequel <a href=http://agoddessofliterature.blogspot.com/2014/01/vic-mongol-serial-sunday-book-review.html>Vic: Mongol</a>.
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I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-20471869807209037632014-08-07T10:00:00.000-04:002014-09-05T22:01:45.393-04:00Killer Date by Kathy Clark - Book Review<center><table><TR><TD><a target=new href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MC87YB6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00MC87YB6&linkCode=as2&tag=warlyscont-20&linkId=OYWW7V4J5FJYREZE"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00MC87YB6&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=warlyscont-20" alt="book cover art for Killer Date by Kathy Clark"></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=warlyscont-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00MC87YB6" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>Killer Date<br>by Kathy Clark<br>Book 2 in Scandals series<br>Genres: Action, Thriller, Suspense,<br> Romance
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<p align=justify> Your typical sleazy private detective. Reno Marks, former resident of Las Vegas, has had more than his share of women and one night stands and seems proud of that fact. When Jenny Caldwell walks into the office of Scandals Investigation Agency, Reno accepts her case, free of charge, simply so he can get to know her better. But there is more to Reno than meets the eye, even more than Reno thought possible. Jenny may be petite but she is a woman of strong character that draws Reno in. He finds that he respects her as much as he yearns to feel her curves against him, and this fact alone amazes him.
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<p align=justify> Don't get me wrong though, this is not just some fluffy romance. Angela, Jenny's sister, is missing - kidnapped by a drug cartel. Neither the local police department nor the Feds are willing to schedule a sting operation to go rescue her. It is up to Jenny to free her own sister, with the help of Scandals investigators and one rogue DEA agent, who is a friend of the family.
<p align=justify> This series seems very interesting. Five siblings, who knew nothing of the others, are brought together when their father passes away and leaves them a substantial inheritance. I also have to give author Kathy Clark kudos for this book. I imagine it cannot be easy to write from a man's perspective, as a woman, and Clark does an excellent job of this. None of his inner thoughts ring false or overly feminine.
<p align=justify> I do not recall any editing errors that could not be contributed to formatting issues, which is fairly rare among self published books unfortunately and a welcome change. I highly recommend this book to readers who may enjoy romance but prefer a bit of meat to the plots of the novels they read. The author recommends this book only to those 18 and older and I will repeat this caution as I do often review books that are suitable for young adults.
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I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#5star>
<img alt="5 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrilnU-6TSeM2hGddq9oUM9_aGi9Zi4Jw0VKU3pHTjxasa5Z8vPK_TV0it1otnkzycv_LJaX1qKMIU4od4iyA6h1wyUqggfmwfUjvQ7n1p4NQmb4ufsA1YNjdmA8vr8BtCYpn6Q8owbdI/s320/agol5stars.png" /></a> 5 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-27291967008469076952014-07-16T10:00:00.000-04:002014-07-16T14:17:16.791-04:00Keep Calm and Ask On by Michael Samuels - Book Review<center><table><TR><TD><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LP3U14Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00LP3U14Q&linkCode=as2&tag=agodoffru02-20&linkId=WN3NFNGKLEGQL5L6"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00LP3U14Q&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=agodoffru02-20" ></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=agodoffru02-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00LP3U14Q" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>Keep Calm and Ask On: A No-Nonsense Guide to Fulfilling Your Dreams<br>by Michael Samuels<br>Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help
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<p align=justify> The author stresses how important it is that you define your goals and trust that everything will work out. Whether you are trusting the Universe, as Samuels phrases it, or God, fate, karma, destiny, Buddha, a higher power, etc. these principles can be applied - no matter what your beliefs or religion may be.
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<p align=justify> Michael Samuels makes some interesting points and gives some sound advice. I'm not going to claim that I personally agree 100% with everything he says, but I will admit that some of his advice gave me food for thought as to changes that I could make in my own daily life. I kind of wish I could hold off on this review until I attempted to use some of the techniques in my life and share if they have made any real impact but I'm afraid that I would end up forgetting to post the review later, as I do with so many books.
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I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#4star>
<img alt="4 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlw7SQAXwO6wjkIUlPZrzkpcghsi2YeUYSDODxl0pb3zs7ASk8RTMJXVAa5ZpvY7h2FgbhxDdLRoAzI5edwxpTRVkUuRNDOHc7Iq5RrUnUYGZa2-n07Rt5ofiApiiiQqyk2vxB3neej4/s320/agol4stars.png" /></a> 4 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1536627474877229519.post-89665362982331152532014-07-12T10:00:00.000-04:002014-07-12T15:35:34.298-04:00Unplugged by P.D. Quaver - Book Review<center><table><TR><TD><a target=new href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J6HIGE0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00J6HIGE0&linkCode=as2&tag=agodoffru02-20&linkId=WVQCDT2LSTK3XATS"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00J6HIGE0&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=agodoffru02-20" ></a><img src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=agodoffru02-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00J6HIGE0" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
<TD align=left>Unplugged<br>by P.D. Quaver<br>Genres: Young Adult, Thriller
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<p align=justify> <i>Unplugged</i> is a thrilling tale aimed at young adults. A group of kids are sent to a new summer camp that claims to wean the children off of their dependence and addictions to electronics. But all is not as it appears as it turns out that this summer camp is merely a front for a kidnapping scheme. The kids are whisked away to a remote island and held hostage. Ironically, they DO learn to live and succeed without any electronic benefits. This is reminiscent of a modern day <i>Lord of the Flies</i> - almost, kinda, sorta. The classic book is mentioned in the story and may spark interest in your youngster, if they enjoy this tale, and I'm all for getting today's kids interested in reading classics.
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<p align=justify> As an adult reading this book, it really makes one think. I remember my childhood ... we only had 4 or 5 channels - depending on the weather. Cartoons were limited to Saturday mornings and briefly after school. I can remember a few victorious days where we convinced my great-grandmother to give up her hour of <i>General Hospital</i> so we could watch <i>Woody Woodpecker</i> after school. We politely asked our friend's parents to use the phone if we needed to call home. Our playtime was filled with tag, cops & robbers, jump rope, jacks & marbles, and hide-and-seek. Today's kids seem so dependent on social media, video games, cell phones, and the internet for their entertainment. Girls enjoy Barbie themed video games with no clue what to do with the actual doll. Boys that have mastered Grand Theft Auto may have never played with a Matchbox car. Don't get me wrong - my kids enjoy their electronics as much as the next. However, we also take time out to take the backgammon or chess board up to the park and enjoy the sunshine. After a rousing game, my daughter flies her kite or plays on the playground equipment while I read - albeit on my Kindle most likely, I'm just as guilty of enjoying my electronics as the next person. I think it is important to teach our kids to enjoy the simple things in life, without going nuts and forbidding them entirely.
<p align=justify> One thing that makes this book a bit scary is the camp. How often do we research camps before sending our kids to them? What do we really know about the summer programs we enroll our children into. The scenario created by author P.D. Quaver really gives parents some food for thought. I know I will be very conscious, and bordering on paranoid, when I make any similar decision regarding my kids in the future.
<p align=justify> As far as YA fiction goes, this is definitely a book that I will be recommending to my daughter. It teaches that there IS a world out there beyond the internet and that real life can be just as challenging and fun as any video game - it all depends on how you approach it, and it does so without a bunch of cussing or any graphic inappropriate physical activity between the boys and girls.
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I give it <a href=http://www.agoddessofliterature.com/p/ratings.html#5star>
<img alt="5 star review graphic" border=0 align=middle src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrilnU-6TSeM2hGddq9oUM9_aGi9Zi4Jw0VKU3pHTjxasa5Z8vPK_TV0it1otnkzycv_LJaX1qKMIU4od4iyA6h1wyUqggfmwfUjvQ7n1p4NQmb4ufsA1YNjdmA8vr8BtCYpn6Q8owbdI/s320/agol5stars.png" /></a> 5 stars!
</center>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08109994984648137940noreply@blogger.com0