Where I share my love of books with reviews, features, giveaways and memes. Family and needlepoint are thrown in from time to time.

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Mailbox Monday/In My Mailbox 2/28-3/1

Bison roam the Black Hills of South Dakota

Mailbox Monday is hosted at The Printed Page or In Your Mailbox at The Story Siren on Sunday. Please stop by those posts and take a look at what packages everybody else got this week!





The Man From Saigon
by Marti Leimbach

(from Doubleday)

It's 1967 and Susan Gifford is one of the first women correspondents in Saigon, dedicated to her job and passionately in love with an American TV reporter. Son is a Vietnamese photographer anxious to get his work into the American press. Together they cover every aspect of the war from combat missions to the workings of field hospitals. Then one November morning, after narrowly escaping death during an ambush, they find themselves the prisoners of three Vietcong soldiers who have been separated from their unit. Helpless in the hands of the enemy, they face the jungle, living always with the threat of being killed. But Son turns out to have a secret history that one day will separate Susan from her American lover. As they are held under terrifyingly harsh conditions, it becomes clear just how profound their relationship is, and how important it has become to both of them. (inside cover)





Eat the Cookie. . .Buy the Shoes
by Joyce Meyer

(from Hachette)

Giving yourself permission to lighten up.

Culture teaches that the only sure way to achieve goals, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, is to practice discipline constantly. You must o to the gym five times a week, never order dessert, and don't even think about buying that dress you keep staring at in the store window. Breaking from this regimented lifestyle is a sign of weakness, right? Wrong! Joyce Meyer tells us why we need to break our routines now and then, and even. . .indulge. The key is knowing the difference between healthy indulgence and destructive self-indulgence.

Eat the Cookie. . .Buy the Shoes celebrates that we're not built for guilt. God never intended for us to be loaded down with guilt. In fact, Meyer tells us that God is the ultimate party guy! Using story after story from the Bible, she describes celebration after celebration -- all ordered by God -- and the way they enhanced people's ability to live productive, happy lives. This book is a welcome dose of encouragement to recognize how important it is to let ourselves off the hook and take every opportunity to take a permanent vacation from invalid guilt. Eat the cookie! Buy the shoes! (back cover)







Heart of my Heart
by Kristin Armstrong

(from Hachette)

Kristin Armstrong shares a year of grace, faith, learning, and love in. . .

Heart of My Heart
365 Reflections on the Magnitude and Meaning of Motherhood

Whether God is using Kristin to raise her children or using her children to grow Kristin, He is present in every moment and on every page of this warm, real, and insightful devotional. Since their births, Kristin has realized that she has "discovered more about myself and my God in the pursuit of discovering my children." It is on this intimate, daily walk that mothers can gain the courage to rely on God and emerge as better women. Celebrating the journey of growth mothers take with their children, each entry in this 365-day devotional contains a Bible verse and a personal reflection from the author. (back cover)






The Language God Talks
by Herman Wouk

(from Hachette)

American master Herman Wouk takes us on a journey across the landscape of science and religion in the twentieth century.

"More years ago than I care to reckon up, I met Richard Feynman." So begins The Language God Talks, Herman Wouk's gem on navigating the divide between science and religion. In one rich, compact volume, Wouk draws on stories from his life as well as on key events from the twentieth century to address the eternal questions of why we are here, what purpose faith serves, and how scientific fact fits into the picture. He relates wonderful conversations he's had with scientists such as Feynman, Murray Gell-Mann, Freeman Dyson, and Steven Weinberg, and brings to life such pivotal moments as the 1969 moon landing and the Challenger disaster.

Brilliantly written, The Language God Talks is a scintillating investigation -- the grand summation of a lifetime of thought on science and religion. (back cover)






Green Like God
by Jonathan Merritt

(from Hachette)

Accompany one pilgrim on a spiritual expedition from enviro-ambivalence to the forefront of the green movement in the church. Jonathan Merritt confronts tough questions dividing America and the faith community while exploring God's plan for restoration. He shares his journey in hopes that you, too, will unlock the divine plan for our planet. (back cover)







Ablaze
by Pam Gillaspie

(Gift from the author)

Is spiritual passion something you know you need more of but don't have the time or energy to work for?

Spiritual passion is not another "to do" on your task list. It's the fire that keeps you going to complete your tasks and to do so with godly perspective and wisdom. Spiritual passion is what fuels us for life's journey as well as daily struggles. But such power can only be sparked and spread through growing intimately familiar with God through His Word.

In Ablaze, author Pam Gillaspie challenges us to a life commitment to reading God's Word and gives practical, down-to-earth techniques to overcome the obstacles keeping us from doing so. Through this book, Gillaspie becomes our coach, encouraging us to keep pursuing God in His Word and thereby experiencing a heart set ablaze for more and more of Him. (back cover)







Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther
by Ginger Garrett

(First Wild Card Tour)

Wrenched from a simple life for her beauty, Esther finds herself at the mercy of King Xerxes. Leaving behind her only relative, her cousin Mordecai, and her first true love, Cyrus, she is thrown headlong into the unrestrained extravagance of palace living. Quick of mind and strong in spirit, she refuses to suffer the fate of her harem sisters and boldly challenges Xerxes to give of his heart before taking his pleasure, thus sealing her place beside him as queen. While conspiracy spins its diabolical web, Esther's mind and spirit waver, and she is forced to confront the past in order to save her future -- and that of an entire nation.

Chosen is the first book in the Lost Loves of the Bible series. (back cover)







My Sister's Voice
by Mary Carter

(Pump Up Your Book Tour)

What do you do when you discover your whole life was a lie?

At twenty-eight, Lacey Gears is exactly where she wants to be as an up-and-coming , proudly Deaf artist in Philadelphia. Then she receives a letter that begins, "You have a sister. A twin, to be exact. . ."

Learning that her identical, hearing twin, Monica experienced the normal childhood she was denied resurrects all of Lacey's grief, and she angrily sets out to find Monica and her biological parents. But the truth about Monica's life, their brief shared past, and the reason for the twins' separation is far from simple. . .






Critical Care
by Theresa Brown

(Shelf Awareness/Harper)

"At my job, people die," writes Theresa Brown, capturing both the burden and the singular importance of her profession. Critical Care chronicles Brown, a former English professor at Tufts University, on her first year as an RN in medical oncology and the emotional ups and downs she encounters in caring for strangers. In contrast to other medical memoirs that highlight the work of doctors, this book focuses on the critical role played by nurses as health care providers.

Brown walks readers through the rigors of chemotherapy, reveals the odd tings that can happen to people's bodies in hospitals, and throws in some humor with her chapter titled "Doctors Don't Do Poop." During her first year on the hospital floor, Brown is seriously injured, but her recovery allows her to take a new perspective on the health care system, giving her a better understanding of the challenges faced by her patients.

Ultimately, Critical Care conveys the message of learning to embrace life in times of health and sickness. "The antidote to death, " Brown says, "is life." Brown writes powerfully and honestly about her experiences, shedding light on the issues of mortality and meaning in our lives. (back cover)




Corky Cubs Crazy Caps
by Barbara deRubertis

(Win from Kane Press)

Corky Cub's best chum is moving away! Who will paly catch with him? Who will make cookies and crazy caps with him? Can Corky's classmates at Alpha Betty's school help solve his problem?(back cover)






Alexander Anteater's Amazing Act
by Barbara deRubertis

(Win from Kane Press)

Alexander wants to have an amazing act for the talent show. he can already stand on his hands -- but can his pals help make his act really fantastic? (back cover)





Kitty's House of Horrors
by Carrie Vaughn

(won at http://northernmama-northerngirl.blogspot.com)


Talk radio host and werewolf Kitty Norville has agreed to appear on TV's first all-supernatural reality show. She's expecting cheesy competitions and manufactured drama starring shapeshifters, vampires, and psychics. But what begins as a publicity stunt will turn into a fight for her life.

The cast members, including Kitty, arrive at the remote mountain lodge where the show is set. As soon as filming starts, violence erupts and Kitty realizes she and her monster housemates are ironically the ultimate prize in a very different game. Stranded with no power, no phones, and no way to know who can be trusted, she must find a way to defeat the evil closing in. . . before it kills them all. (back cover)



What books found a home with you this week?

Out with the In Crowd by Stephanie Morrill (Book Review)



Title: Out With the In Crowd
Author: Stephanie Morrill
Publisher: Revell (Baker Publishing Group)


My synopsis: Skylar has made the choice to stop partying, drinking, etc and is trying to live like a Christian should - but it is hard as she feels she has lost all her old friends. Her boyfriend, Connor, supports her - but feels neglected as she is trying to balance out her life - and it is full! Her little sister, Abbie, is pregnant, her parents are separated - with her mom toying with the idea of moving back to Hawaii (and she wants Skylar and Abbie to go also) and it is her senior year. Isn't this supposed to be the fun easy year? When Jodi, Skylar's ex-bestfriend, seems to be making a play for Connor, Skylar doesn't know who she can trust.

My thoughts: This is the second book in the series The Reinvention of Skylar Hoyt. (see my review of Me, Just Different) It was a very quick read for me. I enjoyed seeing the changes that Skylar was going through based on the decisions she had made in Me, Just Different. (I would recommend reading them in order.) How she struggled with doing the right thing - and doing what was right for her. It was nice to see her grow closer to her sister Abbie, and step up to the plate when she felt her parents weren't doing all that much. This is a good series and I will reaffirm what I said after the first book - Highly Recommended! Watch for book three - So Over It - due out in July!

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

~I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing in exchange for my unbiased review.~

Out With the In Crowd
Publisher/Publication Date: Revell, Jan 2010
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3390-2
252 pages



Friday, February 26, 2010

Beneath a Southern Sky by Deborah Raney (Book Review)



Title: Beneath a Southern Sky
Author: Deborah Raney

Publisher: WaterBrook Multnomah

My synopsis: Daria and her husband Nate are missionaries in a remote Colombian village called Timone. Nate is a medical doctor and was called there even before he and Daria were married. He is called to a neighboring village due to illness, but is reported killed in a fire.

Daria returns home devastated, but also pregnant with their child. She slowly puts her life back together and gets a job to provide for herself and Natalie, her infant daughter. The job is at a local vet's office where she meets Dr. Colson Hunter. He is also a Christian and working there is like a dream come true. The office staff is like family and she is able to work flexible hours around her daughter. Slowly, her and Cole become more than friends. Daria struggles with her feelings for Nate and whether or not she should even be pursuing a relationship already. Then a letter comes from the missionary that was in Timone before her and Nate, urging her to go back to the mission field.

Daria rationalizes all the reasons why she shouldn't return and when Cole asks her to marry him, she says yes. But then the unspeakable happens - she receives a telegram telling her that her husband has been found alive and is flying home. . .

You gotta read it to see what happens - and it is worth it!

My thoughts: I liked this book and the way it talked about hearing the voice of God. It was also suspenseful and kept me reading later at night than was good for me! It showed Daria was very human in the ways she tried to rationalize certain actions in her life - while basically ignoring God's will - (this fits right in with a Bible study that I am in right now in 1 Samuel). Being a Christian book, I was very pleased with how they ended this dilemma, even when you thought there could not be an acceptable outcome. . .

Purchase Beneath a Southern Sky

~I received this book for review from Waterbrook Multnomah.~

Yesterday's Promise by Linda Lee Chaikin (Book Review - Not Really)


Title: Yesterday's Promise
Author: Linda Lee Chaikin

Publisher: Waterbrook Press


I really don't like it when I find I can't finish a book. Unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me. It had a lot of peripheral characters that had me confused as they didn't seem to relate to the story - Now maybe they did further into the book and I just didn't give it a chance. . . Another contributing factor to my confusion may be because I tend to read more than one book at a time. I liked the synopsis of this book, so maybe I will try it again at another time when I am not reading so many at a time... So I am going to leave you with the blurb:

He fought to seek his fortune. Would he lose a greater treasure: the love he left behind?

As the son of the squire of Grimston Way, aristocrat Rogan Chantry has fought hard to win his independence from Sir Julien Bley and the British South Africa Company. Now, his pursuit of a mysterious deposit of gold, marked on a map willed to him by his murdered uncle, Henry Chantry, is challenged by a new complication: the impending British colonization of South Africa. Can Sir Rogan find the gold in the midst of escalating tensions among the native tribesmen, the missionaries sent to win them, and the new colonists?

Meanwhile, Evy Varley, the woman Rogan loves back in England, is headed for a brave yet dangerous confrontation with Henry's killer -- but at what price? With so much against Rogan and Evy, a reunion seems improbable, if not impossible. Can yesterday's promise hold them faithful to the hope of future freedom and a victorious love?



This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

Friday Finds: 2-26-2010

Here are my finds this week!


Ablaze
by Pam Gillaspie


Is spiritual passion something you know you need more of but don't have the time or energy to work for? Spiritual passion is not another "to do" on your task list. It's the fire that keeps you going to complete your tasks and to do so with godly perspective and wisdom. Spiritual passion is what fuels us for life's journey as well as daily struggles. But such power can only be sparked and spread through growing intimately familiar with God through His Word. In Ablaze, author Pam Gillaspie challenges us to a life commitment to reading God's Word and gives practical, down-to-earth techniques to overcome the obstacles keeping us from doing so. Through this book, Gillaspie becomes our coach, encouraging us to keep pursuing God in His Word and thereby experiencing a heart set ablaze for more and more of Him. (back cover)
I can't wait to get started on this book - not only because I really need help in this area - but because I have the privilege of being in Pam's Bible study class as she attends our church!


Making Rounds with Oscar
by David Dosa, M.D.


A remarkable cat. A special gift. A life-changing journey. They thought he was just a cat. When Oscar arrived at the Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Rhode Island in 2005, he was a just cute little guy with attitude. He loved to stretch out in a puddle of sunlight and chase his tail until he was dizzy. Occasionally he consented to a scratch behind the ears, but only when it suited him. In other words, he was a typical cat. Or so it seemed. It wasn't long before Oscar had created something of a stir. Apparently this ordinary cat possesses an extraordinary gift: he knows instinctively when end of life is near. Oscar is a welcome distraction for the residents of Steere House, many of whom are living with Alzheimer's. But he never spends much time with them—until they are in their last hours. Then, as if this were his job, Oscar strides purposely into a patient's room, curls up on the bed, and begins his vigil. Oscar's provides comfort and companionship when people need him most. And his presence lets caregivers and loved ones know that it’s time to say goodbye. Oscar's gift is a tender mercy. He teaches by example: embracing moments of life that so many of us shy away from. Making Rounds with Oscar is the story of an unusual cat, the patients he serves, their caregivers, and of one doctor who learns how to listen. Heartfelt, inspiring, and full of the humor and pathos, this book allows readers to take a walk into a world rarely seen from the outside, a world we often misunderstand. (www.daviddosa.com)







The Unwritten Rule
by Elizabeth Scott


In stores on March 16th!

Everyone knows the unwritten rule: You don't like you best friend's boyfriend.

Sarah has had a crush on Ryan for years. He's easy to talk to, supersmart, and totally gets her. Lately it even seems like he's paying extra attention to her. Everything would be perfect except for two things: Ryan is Brianna's boyfriend, and Brianna is Sarah's best friend.

Sarah forces herself to avoid Ryan and tries to convince herself not to like him. She feels so guilty for wanting him, and the last thing she wants is to hurt her best friend. But when she's thrown together with Ryan one night, something happens. It's wonderful...and awful.

Sarah is torn apart by guilt, but what she feels is nothing short of addiction, and she can't stop herself from wanting more...(www.elizabethwrites.com)





Thursday, February 25, 2010

Winners!





Without further ado - here are our winners!



Redraw - New winner:

Elaing8 (elaing8@...) - CONFIRMED













Redraw - New winners:

clenna (clenna@...) - CONFIRMED

Jane (janie1215@...) - CONFIRMED















Winners:

Kara (ktulanko@...) - CONFIRMED
justpeachy36 (justpeachy36@...)
Sean (spynaert@...)
Emma (augustlily06@...)
katrina (ykatrina@...)














Winners:

justpeachy36 (justpeachy36@...)
j.t. oldfield (j.t.oldfield@...) - ALREADY PURCHASED - will be redrawing. . .
janetfaye (janetfaye@...)














Winners:
Edna (mamat2730@...)
Aik (aikychien@...)
crystalGB (crystal816@...)











Winners:

Tina (tbranco@...)
jaime (copperllama@...) - CONFIRMED
melydia (melydia@...)







Winners - I will try to email you in the next 24 hours - but if you see your name here first - please email me at kherbrand at comcast dot net with your mailing info and title of the book you have won.

Thanks and congrats!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Gabbing about GH


So, last week we reminisced about some of our favorite actors/actresses that have been on General Hospital over the years. So this week I want to talk about families.

Right now the big storyline is about Sonny's family. Sonny is set to take the fall for Michael, who previously killed Claudia in self-defense. Dante, Sonny's new found son with Olivia, is set to take the stand against his father. I would be interested to see what you all think is going to happen. Do you think that Sonny will finally go to jail? Will Michael come forward against his parents wishes and confess? Will Dante actually testify against his father? (Personally, I can see Dante being groomed to take over for Sonny. . .)

Tune in to General Hospital and share your thoughts with me!

Exciting opportunity! - Nancy Lee Grahn (who plays Alexis Davis) will be answering questions from the brand ambassadors! Please submit any questions that you have for Alexis in the next 24 hours. I need to have them turned in by Friday morning. Not all questions will get answered of course, but those that do will be posted in a couple of weeks. Please keep in mind to ask personal questions of Alexis - not story specific.


There is a sweepstakes going on right now at Mom Central - Enter to win the grand prize which is to visit the set of General Hospital and have a walk-on role (how exciting!) Giveaway ends Feb 28. So head on over to Mom Central to sign up!

~I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other General Hospital branded items to facilitate my review.~





Waiting on Wednesday: Caught

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:





Caught
by Harlan Coben
Publisher/Publication Date: Dutton Adult/March 23, 2010


From the #1 New York Times bestselling master of suspense comes a fast-paced, emotion-packed novel about guilt, grief, and our capacity to forgive

17-year-old Haley McWaid is a good girl, the pride of her suburban New Jersey family, captain of the lacrosse team, headed off to college next year with all the hopes and dreams her doting parents can pin on her. Which is why, when her mother wakes one morning to find that Haley never came home the night before, and three months quickly pass without word from the girl, the community assumes the worst.

Wendy Tynes is a reporter on a mission, to identify and bring down sexual predators via elaborate—and nationally televised—sting operations. Working with local police on her news program Caught in the Act, Wendy and her team have publicly shamed dozens of men by the time she encounters her latest target. Dan Mercer is a social worker known as a friend to troubled teens, but his story soon becomes more complicated than Wendy could have imagined.

In a novel that challenges as much as it thrills, filled with the astonishing tension and unseen suburban machinations that have become Coben’s trademark, Caught tells the story of a missing girl, the community stunned by her loss, the predator who may have taken her, and the reporter who suddenly realizes she can’t trust her own instincts about this story—or the motives of the people around her. (Amazon)




What are you waiting for?

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Jordan - Blog Tour - Feb 22 - Mar 5


Jordan
by Susan Kearney


Vivianne Blackstone devotes herself to her career, putting her love life on hold. Her latest project is a spaceship designed to protect Earth from the deadly Tribes. But its engineer, the alluring Jordan McArthur, now threatens both her job and her wary heart . . .

Jordan's past goes back to King Arthur, and he must find the ancient artifact that can save the galaxy. Vivianne's ship is his best hope, but convincing the fiercely independent beauty won't be easy. Especially when the passion flaring between them burns through their defenses - and love is the last thing they need to survive.






USA TODAY bestselling author Susan Kearney is a native of New Jersey and has a Business Degree from the University of Michigan. Her fifty plus books include contemporary, romantic suspense, historical, futuristic, science fiction and paranormal novels. She resides in a suburb of Tampa-with her husband, kids, Boston terriers and iguana. Currently she's plotting her way through her 52st work of fiction. You can reach her through her web site at www.susankearney.com.









Excerpt

Blog Tour Participants:
http://sumanam.wordpress.com/ Review, Giveaway, Q&A 2/22/2010
http://www.startingfresh-gaby317.blogspot.com/ Review, Giveaway 2/22/2010
http://www.takingtimeformommy.com Giveaway 2/22/2010
http://myoverstuffedbookshelf.blogspot.com/ Review, Giveaway 2/22/2010
www.mgpblog.com Review, Giveaway 2/22/2010
http://www.masoncanyon.blogspot.com Feature, Giveaway, Guest Post 2/22/2010
http://zestynachos.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 2/22/2010
http://stacievaughansblog.blogspot.com/ Giveaway 2/22/2010
http://justanothernewblog.blogspot.com/ Giveaway 2/22/2010
http://thisbookforfree.com Feature, Review, Giveaway 2/22/2010
www.booksoulmates.com Review, Giveaway 2/24/2010
www.booksoulmates.com Review 2/24/2010
http://www.mybookaddictionandmore.wordpress.com Feature, Review, Giveaway 2/24/2010
http://patricias-vampire-notes.blogspot.com Giveaway, Guest Post 2/25/2010
http://www.eclecticbooklover.com Review 2/25/2010
http://triciareads.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 2/25/2010
www.froggaritasbookcase.net Review, Giveaway 2/26/2010
http://www.jeannesramblings.com Review, Giveaway 2/26/2010
http://visionquestfail.blogspot.com/ Review, Q&A 2/28/2010
http://mom2mycrazy2.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 2/28/2010
bookmakeupreview@gmail.com Review 2/28/2010
http://thecajunbooklady.blogspot.com/ Review, Giveaway, Guest Post 3/1/2010
www.bookwormygirl.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 3/1/2010
fayeflamereviews.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 3/1/2010
http://bookbookseverywhere.blogspot.com/ Review 3/1/2010
http://bookinwithbingo.blogspot.com/ Giveaway, Q&A 3/2/2010
myfoolishwisdom.blogspot.com Feature, Review, Giveaway, Q&A 3/3/2010
http://booksandneedlepoint.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 3/3/2010
http://www.kballard87.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 3/3/2010
http://www.findthetimetoread.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 3/3/2010
http://myreadingroom-crystal.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 3/4/2010
http://carolsnotebook.wordpress.com Review, Giveaway 3/4/2010
http://razloversbookblog.blogspot.com/ Review, Giveaway, Guest Post 3/4/2010
http://bridget3420.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 3/4/2010
http://www.thehappylittlewren.com Feature, Giveaway 3/4/2010
www.bibliophilicbookblog.com Feature, Review, Giveaway 3/5/2010
http://www.rundpinne.com Review 3/5/2010
www.cherylsbooknook.blogspot.com Review, Giveaway 3/5/2010
http://www.renees-reads.blogspot.com/ Review, Giveaway 3/5/2010
http://juniperrbreeeze.blogspot.com/ Review 3/5/2010



Anything but Normal by Melody Carlson (Book Review)



Title: Anything but Normal
Author: Melody Carlson

Publisher: Revell

My synopsis: Sophie was a good kid - popular, pretty, good grades, chief editor of the school paper - but she had a big secret. She was pregnant. She had taken a purity pledge at her church with her group of girlfriends. But that was before she was a counselor at camp with Dylan. Dylan had told her he loved her, had said all the right things - and they had only had sex twice.

She hides this secret from everyone, her family, her teachers, even her best friends, and Dylan. After writing an article about teen pregnancy, she takes a lot of flak from the school's teen pregnancy center - so she is enlisted to write an article after spending some time their and interviewing the girls who attend classes there. The lessons she learns are invaluable, but what will she do about her own secret?

My thoughts: I liked Sophie and I liked the fact that the author showed that even Christian kids can be led astray. She emphasized in the book that the purity pledge was more about your heart and your relationship with God - and that a promise made out loud is just words and words can be broken. I hope that makes sense - I am having a tough time putting into words what I mean this morning. This was a good book - one that I think all teen girls should read - especially if they say "That could never happen to me. . ."

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

~I received this book for review from Baker Publishing Group.~

Anything but Normal
Publisher/Publication Date: Revell, Jan 2010
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3258-5
254 pages



Monday, February 22, 2010

It's time for another "Grab Bag" Blog Tour




I received these two titles in Waterbrook Multnomah's Grab Bag Blog Tour (Feb 22 - 26).


Yesterday's Promise
by Linda Lee Chaikin


HE FOUGHT TO SEEK HIS FORTUNE.
WOULD HE LOSE A GREATER TREASURE: THE LOVE HE LEFT BEHIND?

As the son of the squire of Grimston Way, aristocrat Rogan Chantry has fought hard to win his independence from Sir Julien Bley and the British South Africa Company. Now, his pursuit of a mysterious deposit of gold, marked on a map willed to him by his murdered uncle, Henry Chantry, is challenged by a new complication: the impending British colonization of South Africa. Can Sir Rogan find the gold in the midst of escalating tensions among the native tribesmen, the missionaries sent to win them, and the new colonists?

Meanwhile, Evy Varley, the woman Rogan loves back in England, is headed for a brave yet dangerous confrontation with Henry's killer -- but at what price? With so much against Rogan and Evy, a reunion seems improbable, if not impossible. Can yesterday's promise hold them faithful to the hope of future freedom and a victorious love?

LINDA LEE CHAIKIN has written numerous best-selling and award-winning books and series, including the Silk series (Heart of India Trilogy), A Day to Remember series, The Empire Builders, Royal Pavilion Trilogy, Arabian Winds Trilogy, The Buccaneers Trilogy, and For Whom the Stars Shine, a finalist for the prestigious Christy Award. Chaikin also is the author of Tomorrow's Treasure, book one in the East of the Sun series. She and her husband make their home in Northern California. (back cover)




Beneath a Southern Sky
by Deborah Raney


HER SECOND HUSBAND HEALED THE SORROW OF A TRAGIC LOSS.
HER FIRST HAS JUST RETURNED FROM THE DEAD.
WHICH MAN HAS THE RIGHT TO CLAIM DARIA'S HEART?


After two years of serving as a missionary in a remote area of South merica, Daria Camfield has returned to the States to mourn her husband, reportedly killed while providing medical aid to a neighboring Colombian village.


ONE FAMILY DISCOVERS HOW GOD CAN REDEEM ANY TRAGEDY.


At first, Daria finds comfort only in the daughter born to her after Nate's tragic death. As she begins to heal, she also finds a listening ear and a tender heart in her new boss, veterinarian Colson Hunter. Determined to move forward with life, Daria ignores the still small voice calling her to wait and accepts Cole's marriage proposal. But after the wedding, Daria's new dream life turns into a nightmare following the arrival of an unbelievable telegram: "Nathan Camfield found alive. Flying into K.C. Int'l. via Bogota. . ."

Now, two men have the right to her daughter, her life, and her love. Will Daria return to her beloved first husband, abandoning Cole? Or will she reject Nate and choose the only man her daughter has ever called "Daddy" -- a man she has come to cherish with all her heart?


DEBORAH RANEY is the award-winning author of several novels, including
A Vow to Cherish, which inspired the feature-length film of the same name. She and her husband, author/illustrator Ken Raney, have four children and make their home in Kansas. (back cover)



Sunday, February 21, 2010

Out with the In Crowd by Stephanie Morrell - Book Tour


Out with the In Crowd
by Stephanie Morrell

on tour Feb 21 - 27

From a talented new voice in YA fiction:
HOW DO YOU START OVER AGAIN IN HIGH SCHOOL?

Teens have embraced Skylar Hoyt, the title character in The Reinvention of Skylar Hoyt series by debut author Stephanie Morrill. Skylar is a character readers can relate to, as she struggles with popularity, fitting in and figuring out what really matters in the midst of it all.

In the second book of the series, Out with the In Crowd, Skylar is struggling with her circle of friends: She’s vowed to change her partying ways, but it's not so easy to change her friends and her old life is constantly staring her in the face. Add to that two parents battling for her loyalty, a younger sister struggling with a crisis pregnancy, and a new boyfriend wishing for more of her time, and Skylar feels like she can't win. After all, how do you choose favorites among the people you love most?

With style and grace, Stephanie Morrill delivers another compelling story that addresses teen issues in Out with the In Crowd. Romantic Times reviewed the first book in The Reinvention of Skylar Hoyt series, with praise: “This is a good start to a promising new series. Morrill introduces a strong, relatable character to root for.”

Stephanie Morrill is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and the Teen Lit writers' group. Morrill is the author of Me, Just Different and Out with the In Crowd, and she also serves in youth ministry. She lives in Kansas with her husband and young daughter.

Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet. (Press release from Baker Publishing)


For more information, visit www.RevellBooks.com.

It's Monday! What are you reading? 2-22-2010


What are you reading on Mondays is now being hosted by Sheila at One Person's Journey - be sure to stop by her blog and congratulate her on being bequethed this great meme! You can hook up with the Mr. Linky there with your own post - but be sure and let me know what you are reading too!


Well, after dealing with Strep this week with me and my son - I didn't get caught up like I wanted to. However I did make some decisions about some books that have been loitering on my "still reading" list and have decided that they need to be re-shelved and tried again at another time. So you will see that some books have disappeared for awhile.

Currently reading:
1. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver I am reading this as part of the YA First Look program for Barnes and Noble. This is the first First Look that I have participated in and am enjoying reading others comments and getting different insights.

2.
Eggs in Purgatory (A Cackleberry Club Mystery) by Laura Childs This is my current "bathroom" book. I have received book 2 from the author and wanted to read them in order. Look for 2 giveaways from Laura Childs this week.

3. Out with the In Crowd (The Reinvention of Skylar Hoyt) by Stephanie Morrell This book is on tour this week with Revell.


New this week:
1.Yesterday's Promise (East of the Sun) by Linda Lee Chaikin On tour this week with Waterbrook.

2. Beneath a Southern Sky (Beneath a Southern Sky Series #1) by Deborah Raney On tour this week with Waterbrook

Current audio book:
1. Wake by Lisa McMann

Books Reviewed:
1. Legend of the White Wolf by Terry Spear

Kid's Books Reviewed:
1. Dump Truck Day by Cari Meister

Waiting for Review:
1.Evermore: The Immortals by Alyson Noel

2. Dear John by Nicholas Sparks Yay! We finished this audiobook and also went to see the movie. I will be talking about both this week.

3. Anything but Normal: A Novel by Melody Carlson

4. 101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle: A Cheeky Book with Tidbits of Advice for a Glamorous Lifestyle by Dawn Del Russo

Children's Books Waiting for Reviews:
1. Building a Bridge (Pebble Plus)by JoAnn Early Macken

2. Demolition (Pebble Plus)by JoAnn Early Macken


Ready - Set - Read!

Evermore by Alyson Noel (Book Review)



Title: Evermore
Author: Alyson Noel

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin


My synopsis: Ever is left to start over with her aunt Sabine in California after a car accident leaves her parents, little sister Riley and dog dead. She is alive, but she is now capable of hearing people's thoughts and seeing their "aura's". The slightest touch of another person catapults her into their thoughts. For this reason, she tries to seclude herself behind baggy clothes, sunglasses and her Ipod becomes her constant companion. It helps to drown out the constant "noise" that now surrounds her. Despite this, she does become friends with two other "misfits" at her new school in California, Miles and Haven.

She also attracts Damen, a super-hot new student, and for the life of her - she cannot understand why he has singled her out. She does what she can to resist him, but discovers that when he touches her, all sound and noise around her is calmed and it is silent. She also cannot read his thoughts and detects no aura around him. For these reasons (despite the "super-hot" factor) she finds herself drawn to him.

Haven, who desperately seeks the attention that she doesn't get from her parents, becomes friends with a long-time acquaintance of Damen's by the name of Drina. Ever also cannot see an aura around Drina, but always gets a really bad feeling when she is around.

As odd as Ever's life is, she begins to wonder who Damen really is and how he seems to know so much, be good at so much, lived in so many places, and have unending wealth - all while being emancipated from his parents. And just how does Drina fit in with his life?

My thoughts: I enjoyed this YA adult book - first of The Immortals series. I liked Ever and though she didn't like her ability to read other's thoughts, wouldn't that be a fun power to have - at least for a little while? I forgot to add above about the fact that she could see her dead sister Riley and carried on conversations with her all the time. I loved their relationship and what they gave up for each other (Riley in the beginning of the book and Ever in the end). I found some of the antics of her little sister to be so typical of a younger sibling - but being a ghost, she could get away with so much more and only Ever could see her.

Her gay friend Miles was also very funny - especially with all his "texting" relationships. Having 2 teenage daughters I can certainly relate to all the texting! Haven was so easily led to do things that I don't think were in her nature - but just because she wanted so desperately to be noticed. If she thought that she was going to gain someone's attention, especially someone like the beautiful Drina, then she was all for it.

I think that I will go on in this series and try the next book, Blue Moon, as I did enjoy this one. I am curious to see where Ever's and Damen's relationship is going to go.

Evermore
Publisher/Publication Date: St. Martin's Griffin, Feb 2009
ISBN: 978-0-312-53275-8
320 pages






Friday, February 19, 2010

General Hospital Brand Ambassador



Yep - You are reading that correctly! I am a Brand Ambassador for General Hospital! I am very excited about this and hope that I can do it justice. General Hospital was the first soap that I watched - way back when I was in junior high. It was the summer of Luke and Laura and I know a lot of teen girls were hooked. I continued to watch as much as I could through high school and college. This was before SoapNet, DVR's and TiVo - so if you didn't catch it while it was on - you didn't catch it!

Over the years I did go through time periods where I would faithfully record and watch each episode as I worked full time up until 2004. My third child was born that year and I became a full-time stay-at-home-mom. Did this mean that I could now watch GH all the time? Of course not, but DVR's are a wonderful thing! I have been able to enjoy the show more than usual the last 5 years. It is amazing that instead of watching Luke and Laura, I now watch their kids Lucky and LuLu.


General Hospital has covered everything - AIDS, rape, kidnapping, serial killers, hotel fires, hostages, train crashes, and this is in addition to philandering husbands and wives, babies needing DNA tests to know their daddies, and let's not forget about the Mob!

Some of my favorite couples over the years have been
Georgie and Dillon,
Emily and Nickolas,
(What's up with killing off these 2 girls anyway!),
Elizabeth and Jason,
and Luke and Tracy
(For the humor - not necessarily the romance!).
Oh - I almost forgot - Lucy Coe and Kevin Collins!




So please stay tuned over the next few weeks for General Hospital high lights. But for now - who is your favorite couple from General Hospital? - Past or present, dead or alive.




~I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other General Hospital branded items to facilitate my review.~

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