Sunday, March 31, 2019

Book Review: The Dead Girl's Stilettos: A Bexley Squires Mystery by Quinn Avery

The Dead Girl's Stilettos: A Bexley Squires Mystery
Title: The Dead Girl's Stilettos: A Bexley Squires Mystery

Author: Quinn Avery

Stars:

Review:
Quinn Avery debut novel is a must read story. The Dead Girl's Stiletto is a fast easy to read mystery that will have readers loving the fearless female lead Bexley Squires. The author creates a story with well placed twist that might have some readers questioning what they think they know. 
The story is equal parts the first few novels from Janet Evanovich Stephen Plum and mix of several other authors who have the ability to bring a dark side of mysteries to life with fun, adventures and yes possible romance.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Quinn Avery The Dead Girl's Stilettos

Synopsis:
A playground for the rich and famous, a murdered Jane Doe, and a beloved celebrity. Journalist Bexley Squires might be out of her league when she’s asked to solve one of the nation’s most infamous unsolved mysteries.

But she’s broke and desperate for the means to find her sister after her disappearance, and the world’s sexiest actor will pay generously to save his reputation. Only she didn’t expect the detective in charge of the case to be her old crush, Grayson Rivers. He’s hotter than the California sun, and their chemistry is the best thing since tacos, but she’s not going to let anything get in the way of uncovering a level of depravity unlike anything she’s ever known.

As tampering witnesses and stolen evidence come to light, Bexley’s network of old and new friends gets sucked into the undertow. If she can’t uncover the secret behind the victim’s footwear, the next wave will kill them all.



About The Author:
Quinn Avery
Quinn Avery is a bestselling and award winning author from the Midwest with 27 novels published under various pen names. The Bexley Squires Mystery series is the first mystery/thriller novel under the Quinn Avery pseudonym.

Thursday, March 28, 2019

Book Review: You Fit The Pattern (Julia Gooden Mystery #4) by Jane Haseldine

You Fit The Pattern (Julia Gooden Mystery, #4)
Title: You Fit The Pattern (Julia Gooden Mystery #4)

Author: Jane Haseldie

Stars: 5 stars

Review:
This is the first in the Julia Gooden series that I have read.  In fact I had no idea this one the first in a series which means this author has the ability to give readers everything they need without them becoming lost or wondering this if this book is part of a series or stand a lone novel. Which as a reader I find impressive.
You Fit The Pattern is a dark gritty story with characters who are real, flawed and strong. The Author pulls readers in from the first page having them wondering who will be next. The murders a frighting, real and has readers looking over their shoulders.
I love how the police worked with the journalist who wants to bring peace to families who lost loved ones. While writing the news.
You Fit The Pattern is very human the characters their back stories as well at the side story creates a world that readers will not want to leave util they find the answers that Julia is seeking.
 Jane Haseldie created a characters who will have readers wanting more from her. Julia is strong passionate and real to the point a reader could be running on the same trail as her.


Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Kensington Publishing for an advance copy of Jane Haseldie You Fit The Pattern

Synopsis:
Crime writer Julia Gooden has just completed the most important story of her life—a book about her beloved brother’s childhood abduction and how she found his killer after thirty years. But that hasn’t taken her focus off her day job—especially with what looks to be a serial killer terrorizing the city. Female runners are being snatched off jogging trails, then slaughtered in abandoned churches. 

As Julia begins investigating, with help from Detective Raymond Navarro, she realizes just how personal this case has become. The murders, planned and executed with uncanny precision, are of women who share traits with Julia. Now he’s contacting her directly, insisting things will get much worse unless Julia makes him famous through her writing. 

But no matter how skillfully she plays along, her opponent’s ultimate goal is clear. And only by unraveling the threads that link a killer’s twisted mind to her own dark past can Julia prevent herself from becoming his final victim .



Hardcover352 pages
Expected publication: March 26th 2019 by Kensington Publishing

About The Author:
Jane Haseldine
Jane Haseldine writes the Julia Gooden mystery series for Kensington Publishing, including The Last Time She Saw Him, Duplicity, and Worth Killing For, which will be published in March 2018. Jane is a journalist, former crime reporter and also worked as a deputy director of communications for a governor. Jane lives in Southern California with her husband and two sons.

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Book Review Stone Cold Heart (Tracers #13) by Laura Griffin

Stone Cold Heart (Tracers #13)
Title:  Stone Cold Heart (Tracers #13)

Author: Laura Griffin

Stars: 5

Review:
Laura Griffin has written now 13 Tracers books. The story is a stand alone novel but connects with the different characters from the previous book in the series.
Each story tells a different side of the forensic, law enforcement and the victims. While Laura Griffin is on book 13 this story is just as fresh eye opening as book 1. The characters are easy to connect with from first to last page.  Sara Lockheart is your more personable Bones while Nolan is nothing like any other Bones characters.   The story is dark but the romance helps the story rise above the dark murder and kidnapping that occur throughout the story. 
Laura Griffin is able to create characters readers are able to connect with easily, fall in love and love the ups and downs that happen in the story.   
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Pocket Books for the advance copy of Laura Griffin Stone Cold Heart.

Synopsis:
When local rock climbers stumble upon abandoned human bones in a remote Texas gorge, Sara Lockhart is the first to get the call. She has a reputation as one of the nation’s top forensic anthropologists, and police detective Nolan Hess knows she is just the expert he needs to help unravel this case. Although evidence is scarce, Nolan suspects the bones belong to a teenage climber who vanished last summer.

But as Sara unearths strange clues, she finds chilling similarities to a case from her past—a case that now threatens to rock Nolan’s community. While Sara digs deep for answers, the stakes rise higher as another young woman disappears without a trace. Investigators work against the clock as Sara races to discover the truth, even if her harrowing search brings her face to face with a stone-cold killer.

Mass Market Paperback384 pages
Expected publication: March 26th 2019 by Pocket Books (first published February 26th 2019)

About The Author:
Laura Griffin
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Laura Griffin started her career in journalism before venturing into the world of writing romantic suspense. Her books have won numerous awards, including two RITA Awards (for Scorched and Whisper of Warning) and a Daphne du Maurier Award (Untraceable). Laura currently lives in Austin where she is working on her next book.

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

Book Review: Eat, Live, Thrive Diet: A Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism by Danna Demetre, Robyn Thomson

Eat, Live, Thrive Diet: A Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism
Title: Eat, Live, Thrive Diet: A Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism

Author: Danna Demetre,  Robyn Thomson

Stars: 3 stars

Review:
As a reader I was looking for something that had information that might explain metabolism in a different light a way to keep myself health the older I get.
There is nothing new in this health book and its just another fad diet that will have people creating more issues for their Metabolism than if they followed the guidelines of their doctors.
The book as suggestions that might help those just starting out or those who are fans of the the authors but for this read it wasn't anything.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher  Waterbrook for the advance copy of Danna Demetre and Robyn Thomson Eat, Live, Thrive Diet.


Synopsis
From the well-known health and lifestyle coaches of the widely popular website Lean Healthy Ageless (formerly Ageless Woman Living) comes a practical, science-based diet book that unravels the mystery of why women gain weight as they age and includes a sustainable plan to permanently lose the pounds and inches.

Eat, Live, Thrive Diet shows women how they can not only lose excess body fat permanently but also improve their overall health in critical areas such as brain function, resistance to disease, slowing down external aging, and increasing energy. This highly effective eating plan is presented in a compassionate voice by two experienced health coaches who share personal experiences of battling weight and emotional eating issues. Whereas most diets are short-lived or require substantial upkeep to maintain, Eat, Live, Thrive Diet is a viable eating plan that women can adhere to indefinitely. In addition to minimizing sugar intake, the plan emphasizes the importance of short-term intermittent fasting--a simple lifestyle change that makes it easier and more effective for many mature women to reach their health and weight loss goals. The book also highlights health risks and drawbacks of many popular fad diets that can be harmful on a long-term basis.


Kindle Edition272 pages
Expected publication: March 26th 2019 by WaterBrook

About The Author:

I call myself “work in progress” is how I describe myself! I’ve weathered a host of personal challenges in my 66  years on this planet and am thankful to have discovered the life-changing power of having a “renewed mind”. God has taught me many profound lessons and my passion is to pass those on to you! Whether the topic is body, soul, or spirit – I am willing to transparently share my stories and boldly proclaim the truth of God’s love and word to transform us when we humbly surrender to his awesome power.  
I’ve got a really  diverse professional background – a registered nurse specializing in labor and delivery, corporate marketing manager for a fortune 100 company, fitness professional, lifestyle coach and a talk radio host to name a few. In 1997, I also the founded Women of Purpose – a California outreach ministry for women.

Monday, March 25, 2019

Book Review: Apocalypse Taco by Nathan Hale

Apocalypse Taco
Title: Apocalypse Taco 

Author: Nathan Hale

Stars:

Review:
As a mom with readers I am always looking for books my kids will love.  My kids are ages K-7th grade and each one has bee reading since they were 4 years old. (I know freaky Right!)
Each child has there own personality but when we are able to find a author or book series my kids all like I buy everything since book.
Nathan Hale looks to be the next author who will be sitting on our 400 children's book shelf.

The story is a fun adventure that children will be able to understand and laugh as Sid, Alex, and Ivan since of the biological engineering gone crazy. The author creates a fun story that is fast pace and keeps children of all ages and parents engaged until the story ends. 

My kids have now read this book almost every night before bed.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Amulet Books for the advance copy of Nathan Hale Apocalypses Taco

Synopsis:
Sid, Axl, and Ivan volunteer to make a late-night fast-food run for the high school theater crew, and when they return, they find themselves. Not in a deep, metaphoric sense: They find copies of themselves onstage. As they look closer, they begin to realize that the world around them isn’t quite right. Turns out, when they went to the taco place across town, they actually crossed into an alien dimension that’s eerily similar to their world. The aliens have made sinister copies of cars, buildings, and people—and they all want to get Sid, Axl, and Ivan. Now the group will have to use their wits, their truck, and even their windshield scraper to escape! But they may be too late. They may now be copies themselves 


Hardcover128 pages
Expected publication: March 26th 2019 by Amulet Books
About The Author:
Nathan Hale
Nathan Hale is the New York Times best-selling author/illustrator of the Hazardous Tales series, as well as many picture books including Yellowbelly and Plum go to School, the Twelve Bots of Christmas and The Devil You Know.

He is the illustrator of the Eisner-nominated graphic novel Rapunzel's Revenge and its sequel, Calamity Jack. He also illustrated Frankenstein: A Monstrous Parody, The Dinosaurs' Night Before Christmas, Animal House and many others.

(He is not the author of Extinction Earth or the other apocalyptic titles listed. That's a different Nathan Hale. If someone with "librarian" status would disambiguate those titles for me, I'd appreciate it.)

Friday, March 22, 2019

Book Review London Calling by Veronica Forand

London Calling
Title: London Calling 

Author: Veronica Forand 

Star:

Review:
London Calling is an action, adventure, spy, romance stories that is a can't miss story.

The story and characters are straight out of a Mission Impossible theme movie. The author is able to write action scenes that will have readers, running, shooting, driving next to the characters as than race from one moment to the next. Emma is likable and readers will be able to connect with her though the confusing, heart ache and wonder she will endure.

The sexual tension will keep reader wondering if their relationship will blossom of fiz out. Readers will wonder from the second you meet Emma she be able head head back to the states for a normal life after seeing the dark spy world.

Veronica Forand is able to create a wonderful blend of action, story building, characters that grow and change though the time line the author created. 

This is a can't miss action adventure story that readers will love. I can't wait to read more by this author.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher  Entangled Publishing LLC (Amara) for the advance copy of Veronica Forand London Calling.


Synopsis:
Small town police officer Emma Ross loves her simple life––but it takes a hard turn into crazy when she’s kidnapped by MI6 and is put under the protection of an over-bearing, albeit sexy, Scotsman. A man who believes she’s lying to protect her father—a father whom she had no idea worked for British Intelligence and is now missing.

Liam Macknight’s partner was assassinated and he’s certain Emma’s father had something to do with it. But the stubborn woman isn’t talking, and she’s determined to get herself killed trying to find out the truth. Locking her in a room does no good––he tried that. So he’s forced to work with her, even if he’s not sure he’ll ever be able to trust her.

When he’s assigned to kill her dad to protect the identity of British spies in the Kremlin, he knows what little trust they’ve gained is about to be destroyed forever.




ebook
Expected publication: March 25th 2019 by Entangled Publishing LLC (Amara)

About The Author:
Veronica Forand
Veronica Forand is an attorney and an award-winning writer of romantic suspense. 

She’s lived in Boston, London, Paris, Geneva, and Washington, DC and currently resides near Philadelphia. An avid traveler, she loves to roam across continents with her husband and kids in pursuit of skiing, scuba diving, and finding the perfect piece of chocolate.

She is a member of the Romance Writers of America, the Kiss of Death, RWA’s chapter for romantic suspense and mystery, the RWA Contemporary Romance Chapter, the Valley Forge Romance Writers, the Washington Romance Writers, and the International Thriller Writers.

Veronica is represented by Michelle Grajkowski of 3 Seas Literary Agency.

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Book Review: Secrets Never Die (Morgan Dane #5) by Melinda Leigh

Secrets Never Die (Morgan Dane #5)
Title: Secrets Never Die (Morgan Dane #5)

Author: Melinda Leigh 

Stars: 5

Review:
Melinda Leigh writing style has only becomes better with each story.  Her ability to create a scene so vivid readers will never be able to forget. The scenes flow with perfection as the characters grow, develop as the story comes to an end Melinda Leigh is able to bring it to a perfect end.
The conflict that Morgan has been feeling from book one finally comes to an end.  Readers will feel the same emotions the characters feel as the story evolves until the very end that as the traditional flare that readers love about Melinda Leigh.

Thank you to Netgellay, the author and the publisher Montlake for the Advance copy of Melinda Leigh Secrets Never Die  

Synopsis:
Morgan Dane and PI Lance Kruger fight for the innocence of a young murder suspect—if only they could find him.

When a retired sheriff’s deputy is shot to death in his home, his troubled teenage stepson, Evan, becomes the prime suspect. Even more incriminating, the boy disappeared from the scene of the crime.

Desperate to find her son, Evan’s mother begs PI Lance Kruger for help. She knows her son is innocent. Kruger and defense attorney Morgan Dane want to believe that too, but the evidence against the boy is damning. Just as the trail goes cold, another deputy vanishes. His shocking connection to Evan’s stepfather throws the investigation into chaos as Lance and Morgan fear the worst…that Evan is the killer’s new target.

With so many secrets to unravel, will Lance and Morgan find him before it’s too late?


Kindle Edition326 pages
Expected publication: March 19th 2019 by Montlake Romance

About The Author:
Melinda Leigh
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melinda Leigh is a fully recovered banker. A life-long lover of books, she started writing as a way to preserve her sanity while raising her kids. Over the next few years, she learned a few things about writing a book. The process was much more fun than analyzing financial statements, and she decided to turn her hobby into a career. Melinda’s debut novel, SHE CAN RUN, was nominated for Best First Novel by the International Thriller Writers. She is a RITA® Award Finalist and has earned three Daphne du Maurier Award nominations, two Silver Falchion Awards, and a Golden Leaf.

Melinda holds a 2nd degree belt in Kenpo Karate. She’s dabbled in Arnis stick fighting, studied Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and taught women’s self-defense. She lives in a messy house in the suburbs with her husband, two kids, a couple of shelter dogs and two rescue cats who clearly run the show. With such a pleasant life, she has no explanation for the sometimes dark and disturbing nature of her imagination. Find out more about Melinda by visiting melindaleigh.com.

Monday, March 18, 2019

Book Review: The Fifth Doctrine (The Guardian #3) by Karen Robards

The Fifth Doctrine (The Guardian #3)
Title: The Fifth Doctrine (The Guardians #3)

Author: Karen Robards 

Stars: 4 stars

Review:
I reviewed the first in the Guardian Series that hook me in from first to last page. Once again this story will keep readers needing more of St. Ives as she is trying to settle back into a normal life knowing she is anything but normal.  The characters stay true to who they are from book 1. 
I would recommend readers starting with the first in the series just to get the batter background of St. Ives, however that being said the author does a wonderful job of catching reader up fast as bullet are flying. 
The author create a dark world where one mistake and you are expendable.  The action back story has readers biting their nails needing more of Bianca St, Ives.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher MIRA for advance copy of Karen Robards The Fifth Doctrine 

Synopsis:
It took one hell of an effort for the authorities to finally get the jump on master manipulator Bianca St. Ives, but now that they have, it's far from the capture she expected. Instead of taking her in, there's an offer on the table, a one-shot deal that would allow Bianca to walk away scot-free as if they'd never found her. And all she has to do is run one last mission—the kind she might never return from. But if Bianca wants to go back to her normal life in Savannah, it's not like she has a choice. 

An intelligence operation is already under way in North Korea, one that's poised to end the country's existing tyrannical regime for good. But first, the U.S. needs one of their own to go undercover as the female hacker who recently stole top secret intel from NORAD. Enter Bianca. After everything she's seen, Bianca knows feeding fake information directly into the belly of the beast is about as dangerous as it gets. It could mean torture or endless imprisonment—assuming she survives. But it might also ignite the kind of chaos that forces a revolution. It might just change the world. Besides, if Bianca has to go down, she's gonna go down swinging


Kindle Edition384 pages
Expected publication: March 19th 2019 by MIRA

About The Author:
Karen Robards
Karen Robards is the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than fifty books and one novella. She has won multiple awards including six Affaire de Coeur Silver Pen Awards for favorite author.
Karen has been writing since she was very young, and was first published nationally in the December 1973 Reader's Digest. She sold her first romance novel, ISLAND FLAME, when she was 24. It was published by Leisure Books in 1981 and is still in print. After that, she dropped out of law school to pursue her writing career.
Karen was recently described by The Daily Mail as "one of the most reliable thriller....writers in the world."

Saturday, March 16, 2019

Book Review: Mama, Mama, Only Mama: A Single Mom on Parenting, Divorce, Dating, and Cooking, with Heavy Doses of Humor and Advice by Lara Lillibridge

Mama, Mama, Only Mama: A Single Mom on Parenting, Divorce, Dating, and Cooking, with Heavy Doses of Humor and Advice
Title: Mama, Mama, Only Mama: A Single Mom on Parenting, Divorce, Dating, and Cooking, with Heavy Doses of Humor and Advice 

Author: Lara Lillibridge

Stars:

Review:
Being a parent in general is hard Lara Lillibridge bring humor to the day to day struggles of parents.  While she is a single parent the stories will have anyone as a parent laughing and saying "Yup that has happened."
The author is able to bring light to the darkest and hardest times of the lives of parenting. 
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Skyhouse for a copy of Lara Lillibridge Mama, Mama, Only Mama

I am blessed to be married to an partner an amazing father who steps in when I need help or a break from being a mom.  With that said I am still able to understand the author feeling and humor.Review:


Synopsis:
Being a single mother means relaxing your cleanliness standards. A lot. Being a single mother means missing your kids like crazy when your ex has them, only to want to give them back ten minutes after they come home. Being a single mother means accepting sleep deprivation as a natural state. Being a single mother means hauling a toddler, a baby, and a diaper bag while wearing high heels and a cute skirt, because you never know when you’ll meet someone. Being a single mother means finding out you are stronger than you ever knew was possible.
Since birth, Lara Lillibridge’s children wanted, “Mama, Mama, only Mama!” whether they were tired or just woke up from a nap—whether they were starving or had just finished a bowl of goldfish crackers. Over ten years later, not much has changed. Between hilarious episodes and candid stories, Lillibridge offers the bits of advice and enlightenment she’s gained along the way and never fails to commiserate on the many challenges that come with raising children in a non-nuclear family. This creative, touching memoir will resonate with single moms everywhere, whether solo parenting is new territory or well-trodden ground for them.
Written in the style of a diary with blogs, articles and recipes tucked between the pages, Mama, Mama, Only Mama follows Lillibridge and her two children, Big Pants and Tiny Pants, out of divorce, through six years of single parenting, and into the family blender with a quasi-stepfather called SigO. Complete with highly useful recipes such as congealed s’more stew, recycled snack candy bars, instant oatmeal cookies and a fine chicken casserole that didn’t pass Tiny Pants’s “lick test,” Lillibridge grows into her role as mother, finds true love, and comes to terms with her ex-husband.
 



About The Author:
Lara Lillibridge
Lara Lillibridge sings off-beat and dances off-key. She writes a lot, and sometimes even likes how it turns out. 

She is the author of two memoirs, Girlish: Growing Up in a Lesbian Home (Skyhorse Publishing, 2018) and Mama, Mama, Only Mama (Skyhorse Publishing, 2019).

Lara Lillibridge is a graduate of West Virginia Wesleyan College’s MFA program in Creative Nonfiction. In 2016 she won Slippery Elm Literary Journal’s Prose Contest, and The American Literary Review's Contest in Nonfiction. She also was a finalist in both Black Warrior Review’s Nonfiction Contest and DisQuiet’s Literary Prize in Creative Nonfiction. She has had essays published in Pure Slush Vol. 11, Vandalia, and Polychrome Ink; on the web at Hippocampus, Crab Fat Magazine, Luna Luna, Huffington Post, The Feminist Wire, Airplane Reading, Thirteen Ways to Tell a Story, Weirderary, and Brain, Child magazine's Brain, Mother blog. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Friday, March 15, 2019

Book Review: Bare: A 7-Week Program to Transform Your Body, Get More Energy, Feel Amazing, and Become the Bravest, Most Unstoppable Version of You by Susan Hyatt

Bare: A 7-Week Program to Transform Your Body, Get More Energy, Feel Amazing, and Become the Bravest, Most Unstoppable Version of You
Title: Bare: A 7-Week Program to Transform Your Body, Get More Energy, Feel Amazing, and Become the Bravest, Most Unstoppable Version of You 

Author: Susan Hyatt
Stars: 4 1\2 stars

Review:
The author Susan Hyatt book Bare tell you she has issues you and have issues.  She will be able to inspire readers with you stories, her passion and her ability to connect with the negative talk women struggle with.
If you are looking for something new this isn't your book.  She cover the same information others cover with self esteem, weight, appearance and motivation yourself to be the best you.
She has the ability to connect with woman though her personal struggles as well as stories of other woman who have struggled and found success.
I think this book will pic up speed with the attractive book cover.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Susan Hyatt Bare A 7-Week Program to Transform Your Body, Get More Energy, Feel Amazing, and Become the Bravest, Most Unstoppable Version of You 

Synopsis:
You are more than your body; you are a badass, whole woman with big dreams, big feelings, and big potential—but right now, you're also physically bigger than you want to be. What are you hiding behind that shield of overeating? Who do you want to be when you put down the shield and take on life's battles Bare?



Kindle Edition
Expected publication: March 5th 2019 by BenBella Books

About The Author:
Susan Hyatt
Susan Hyatt is a master certified life coach who has helped thousands of women to
transform their bodies and lives. She's the creator of the Bare Process, the Bare Deck,
the Bare Podcast, and an online community called Bare Daily. With her fiery Facebook
rants--including "Whoop Ass Wednesday," where she reads a fresh batch of hate mail
from Internet trolls and gives her sassiest response--Susan has gained an international
following of women who love her honesty, humor, and fearlessness. Susan has been
featured in Cosmopolitan, Woman's World, Seventeen, and O: The Oprah Magazine, and was
a Finalist for the Athena Award, honoring her work in the field of women's empowerment.

https://shyatt.com/about-me/

Thursday, March 14, 2019

Book Review: You vs You: 12 Ways to Kick Your Own Ass and Win by Todd Cahill

You vs You: 12 Ways to Kick Your Own Ass and Win
Title: You vs You

Author: Todd Cahill

Stars: 4 stars

Review:
You vs You will be different for everyone who reads this book. This isn't the first book about how to become a better person but the author Toss Cahill breaks down what hold individuals back from finding their success. The author has it broken down into categories  helping readers discover a way to find a better you.  The author uses success stories, quotes, and examples that will gives readers insight. 

This is your basic self help book but the author is able to add hiss own aspect that will create a unique and interesting looking at creating a better you.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Greenleaf Book Group Press for an advance copy of Todd Cahill You vs You.


Synopsis:
In You vs You, author Todd Cahill starts with a simple premise: As people strive for any improvement in their lives—whether it’s more income, a better relationship, a promotion, a bigger business, or a better body—the most important battles they will face are against themselves. People invite problems into their lives through poor choices, apathy, indecision, arrogance, anxiety, selfishness, and other traits they would rather not discuss but must be addressed.

In this valuable book, Cahill shares what he has learned about these battles that either keep people from success and significance or usher them to victory. As a life coach and leadership trainer, he has taught thousands of people these lessons, and many of them are now experiencing a level of personal achievement, relational abundance, and financial freedom they never thought possible. 

People often self-sabotage if they’re not mindful, wise, and willing. Cahill reinforces the idea that readers can choose today to fight against who they once were (or are) and become who they are made to be. You vs You is about that choice and the challenging, rewarding quest that ensues


Hardcover174 pages
Expected publication: February 19th 2019 by Greenleaf Book Group Press

About The Author:
Todd Cahill is a powerhouse entrepreneur, living a life of passion and creating a legacy that will be left for generations to come.  He strives daily to live a life of balance between his family, personal passions, business, and giving back to his community.
Todd has years of experience in different fields and has always been an entrepreneur at heart.  His first million was made before the age of 30, in Network Marketing.  In the last 3 years, he has earned the title of 5-Star National Marketing Director with Nerium International, making him one of the top income earners in one of the fastest growing Network Marketing Companies in the world.  Todd has built a team of over 70,000 people with Nerium International and his contagious energy has attracted a loyal following.
Todd has trained with world renowned motivational coaches, authors and mentors and is determined to pay it forward.  He has taken what he has learned and experienced and pours in back into others.  His life coaching and leadership training has helped hundreds of people create 6 figure incomes in their own businesses.  Todd focuses his energy on guiding people along the journey of finding their true purpose and creating a step by step plan to achieving it.  He is passionate about living a life of significance and his motto "beyond driven" describes his level of dedication to live out his purpose every day!  
This proud father of 3 is here to leave a strong footprint, not only for his children, but for the world!   

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

Book Review: Slow Ride (Road to Love #2) by Lori Foster

Slow Ride (Road to Love, #2)
Title: Slow Ride (Road to Love #2)

Author:  Lori Foster 

Stars: 4 Stars

Review:
The very first chance readers meet Ronnie and Jack its starts off with sexual attraction.  Right away it is about sex and while it is funny what happens next gives readers the book is going to be focused on the sex and sexual tension between the characters.  The story moved along with moments of adventures that turned right back into sexual banter and sex.  Slow ride follows the same model as the first book and while at times it could be interchangeable with the first book Driven to Distraction. Slow Ride is still its own story about Ronnie and Jack.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher HQN Books for the advance copy of Lori Foster Slow Ride 

Synopsis:
Ronnie Ashford needs a distraction. In the morning, she has to offer arrogant, conventional Jack Crews a job and convince him not to take it. She doesn’t need anyone’s help, thank you very much. But tonight is all about the tall, sexy stranger who just walked in the bar—and all the delicious trouble they could get into together. Too bad just as things are heating up between them, he whispers the three little words that destroy everything: “I’m Jack Crews.”

Jack is determined to connect with fiery Ronnie—in bed and out of it—but her terms are clear. If he takes the job, helping her acquire prized artifacts for her mysterious bosses, anything between them is strictly off-limits. Somehow he has to convince a woman who’s never felt like she belonged that she’s found her place—with him. And with the danger sparking hotter than the fire between them, it’s going to be one unforgettable trip



Kindle Edition384 pages
Expected publication: March 12th 2019 by HQN Books

About The Author:
Lori Foster
Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.

Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.

Tuesday, March 12, 2019

Book Review The Liar's Child by Carla Buckley Second Review

The Liar's Child

Title: The Liar's Child 

Author: Carla Buckley 

Stars: 4 stars

Review:

A thought provoking tale that was told from the view point of the various characters involved. I was somewhat dismayed by the lack of key background information, on what I presume to be, for the main character. The story clearly shows that while you may live or work next to an individual, for either a short or long span of time, you do not really know what internal conflicts are going on in their world. I enjoyed this book and would have preferred a more detailed ending but was satisfied with the results I built in my mind based on the information provided.

I have rated this book 4 stars.

I received an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review.  Thank you Frank.

Synopsis:
On the outskirts of North Carolina's Outer Banks sits the Paradise, an apartment complex where renters never stay long enough to call the place "home"--and neighbors are seldom neighborly. It's ideal for Sara Lennox, who moved there to escape a complicated past--and even her name--and rebuild a new life for herself under the radar. But Sara cannot help but notice the family next door, especially twelve-year-old Cassie and five-year-old Boon. She hears rumors and whispers of a recent tragedy slowly tearing them apart.

When a raging storm threatens then slams the coastal community, Sara makes a quick, bold decision: Rescue Cassie and Boon from the storm and their broken home--without telling a soul. But this seemingly noble act is not without consequences. Some lethal.

About the Author:
Carla Buckley
Carla Buckley is the internationally bestselling author of The Good GoodbyeThe Deepest SecretInvisible, and The Things That Keep Us Here, which was nominated for a Thriller Award as a best first novel and the Ohioana Book Award for fiction. She is a graduate of Oberlin College and the Wharton School of Business, and currently lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She serves on the board of the International Thriller Writers as Vice President, Awards and is at work on her next novel.

Monday, March 11, 2019

Book Review: The Liar's Child by Carla Buckley

The Liar's Child
Title: The Liar's Child 

Author: Carla Buckley 

Stars: 4 stars

Review:

The Liar's Child is a full of complex characters, unexpected emotions, one momnent in time can change a persons life forever.  The random moments can leave last impact that can effect not just one person everyone involved.  
The author has the ability to create complex characters, emotional driven story that keeps readers wanting more.  The author creates characters who are human that make simple mistakes and mistakes that will changed their lives.

This is a must read mystery.

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher Ballantie Books for the Advance copy of Carla Buckley The Liar's Child 

Synopsis:
On the outskirts of North Carolina's Outer Banks sits the Paradise, an apartment complex where renters never stay long enough to call the place "home"--and neighbors are seldom neighborly. It's ideal for Sara Lennox, who moved there to escape a complicated past--and even her name--and rebuild a new life for herself under the radar. But Sara cannot help but notice the family next door, especially twelve-year-old Cassie and five-year-old Boon. She hears rumors and whispers of a recent tragedy slowly tearing them apart.

When a raging storm threatens then slams the coastal community, Sara makes a quick, bold decision: Rescue Cassie and Boon from the storm and their broken home--without telling a soul. But this seemingly noble act is not without consequences. Some lethal.




Hardcover288 pages
Expected publication: March 12th 2019 by Ballantine Books

About The Author:
Carla Buckley
Carla Buckley is the internationally bestselling author of The Good GoodbyeThe Deepest SecretInvisible, and The Things That Keep Us Here, which was nominated for a Thriller Award as a best first novel and the Ohioana Book Award for fiction. She is a graduate of Oberlin College and the Wharton School of Business, and currently lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She serves on the board of the International Thriller Writers as Vice President, Awards and is at work on her next novel.

Friday, March 8, 2019

Book Review: Lessons from the Set: A DIY Guide to Your First Feature Film, from Script to Theaters by Usher Morgan

Lessons from the Set: A DIY Guide to Your First Feature Film, from Script to Theaters
Title: Lessons from the Set: A DIY Guide to Your First Feature Film, from Script to Theaters 

Author: Usher Morgan 

Stars:

Review:
Usher Morgan isn't just writing a do it your self book but he is also giving you suggestions that future film writers might not have though of doing or tried but didn't quite go far enough.
The author expresses himself in a way that readers will be able to connect with as he works with readers though is book instead of face to face. 
The authors way to writing encourages readers to find success and the author seem want the readers to find their own success as well. The best way to explain this book is Usher Morgan wants to see everyone who reads this self help book to succeed.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Library Tales Publishing for a copy of Usher Morgan Lesson from the Set.

Synopsis: 
Lessons from the Set is a comprehensive filmmaking guide that takes a cinephile’s “Do It Yourself” approach to low-budget indie film production and distribution. The book is peppered with filmmaking tips and tricks, as well as valuable, practical insight into the process of writing, directing, producing, and distributing commercial feature films on a low budget – whether you’re working with $1,000 or $1m. You’ll learn how to write, direct, produce, and release your film to theaters, tackle festivals and handle press, create a marketing plan, get reviews, and approach the filmmaking process with both an artistic soul and an entrepreneurial mindset. 

After releasing his debut feature film to wide acclaim, filmmaker Usher Morgan (Prego, Windblown, Pickings) decided to write a filmmaking book which detailed his approach to writing, directing, and producing his own work, as well as the steps he took to distribute and market his film, Pickings, and release it to theaters across the nation. 

Lessons from the Set: A DIY Guide to Your First Feature Film, from Script to Theaters is the perfect gift to any aspiring filmmaker, it’s an essential guide for anyone who wants to tell stories and make movies for a living. 



Kindle Edition311 pages
Published December 15th 2018 by Library Tales Publishing

About The Author:
Usher Morgan
An award-winning screenwriter, film director, producer and studio executive residing in New York City. I started my career in book publishing and later became involved with film production and distribution. Produced my first documentary film "The Thought Exchange" starring David Friedman and Lucie Arnaz in 2012, followed by my directorial debut, the award-winning short film "Prego."

My first feature film, "Pickings" was released to wide acclaim and received a limited theatrical release via AMC Independent in March of 2018. My writing and directing style is influenced primarily by film-noir and spaghetti westerns. The Los Angeles Times calls me, "a talent to watch".

Thursday, March 7, 2019

Book Review: Hello Again by Stan Schatt

Hello Again
Title: Hello Again 

Author: Stan Schatt

Stars: 2 1\2 Stars

Review:
Hello Again can't seem to decided what it wants to be. Paranormal? Mystery? Thriller? The story doesn't really take any of those genres far enough.  While the basic story line is interesting and the author creates some interesting twist to keep readers pushing though the confusing parts. The author is able to write but he lacks the focus to be able to create a cohesive story that readers can enjoy. The Bill and his best friends are what people would consider typical men with the desire to find the perfect 10 of a man while they lack the perfect 10 themselves.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of Stan Schatt Hello Again.

Synopsis:
Bill Eisner escaped the high-powered world of dog eat dog and opened a neighborhood coffee shop. His high-maintenance girlfriend stayed behind. Now all he wants is a second chance in life, a chance to do something he enjoys and meet someone who can love him for who he is, not what he can buy her. The community loves him, the press loves him, and even the homeless think he’s one of the nicest guys around.Finally, he thinks he’s found true happiness with the woman of his dreams. Until she’s murdered. At her funeral, Bill discovers that the woman he loved had a lot of secrets and told him a lot of lies. But does it matter? She’s gone forever. Or is she? Her text messages say otherwise.The police don't believe Eisner and he might be responsible for his girlfriend's death. Meanwhile the text messages become more and more threatening. When a car bomb blows up his car he is forced to accept that someone or something clearly wants to kill him.

Paperback, 266 pages
Published November 13th 2018 by Tell-Tale

About The Author:
Stan Schatt
Stan Schatt has written forty books on a wide variety of topics including science fiction, mysteries, a chapter book for children, a YA novel, biographies of Michael Connelly and Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., and books on technology and career changing. His love for teaching is reflected in outstanding teaching awards he received from the University of Southern California and DeVry Institute of Technology.

Rather than having one career, Schatt has had several. He has worked as an autopsy assistant, an English professor, a software trainer, a law enforcement administrator, a market research executive, and a sales manager. He spent the last two decades as a technology analyst or 'futurist" trying to figure out what future technologies will be successful.

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