Thursday, December 6, 2012

Book Review: Sneek by Evan Angler

I can't believe I forgot to write a review for this book!!! I guess it was so good that I forgot that I "had" to read it.  "Sneak" is the second book in the Swipe Series by Evan Angler.  I did a review on the first book "Swipe" back in March.  Here is a link to that review.

As you can tell, I really enjoyed the first book so I jumped at the chance to review "Sneak."  I couldn't wait to find out the next step in Logan Langley's adventure.  When "Swipe" ended, Logan had escaped from getting his mark.  He was on the run from the government.  This book picks right up where the other left off.

Logan spends the majority of this book on the run alone.  We meet a host of new characters that are part of the resistance against the government and just plain Markless.  One of these gives Logan the most controversial banned book, the Bible.  When Logan reads the stories in the Bible, he understands more about how the government is controlling the people.

We also get to see how the Dust fare on their run from the government. We find out how the Markless communicate between areas and how a Underground Railroad of sorts operates.  I found the networking of the resistance very interesting.  You came to feel what it must have been like for different groups, (civil rights, early Christians), to stand up to a government that most people didn't think was wrong.

I highly recommend that you start with "Swipe" and continue the saga with "Sneak" by Evan Angler.  They are both really entertaining young adult, Christian books.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Book Review: The Archived by Victoria Schwab

Sorry I've been neglectful of my writing duties.  We switched things up at home and I'm working more than I was before.  I'm not reading less. I'm just not as able to devote time to writing.  I need to do better about just allowing myself time for this. Enough excuses, let's get into the review.

I received a sneak peek look at Vicotria Schwab's book "The Archived" from Netgalley.com. I'm not sure that I'll sign up for more sneak peeks in the future.  It is killing me not knowing what happens next in the story.  Of course, they leave you at a "cliff hanger" point in the story.

The story is told from the view point of 16 year-old Makenzie Bishop.  She is a Keeper.  This is a job handed down to her from her grandfather.  A Keeper is a person who finds Histories and returns them to the Archive.  I'm sure that none of that made sense to you.  It is explained wonderfully in the book.  It is a different take on what happens to a person when they die.

This is a young adult novel.  I found it to be fast paced and engaging.  It has just enough mystery to keep you turning the pages.  I know that I will be tracking down a copy of the entire book so that I can find out what happens next.

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Book Review: Angel Eyes by Shannon Dittemore

Time for another book review.  Can you tell that I slacked off during the summer? I read just as much.  I just didn't manage to put down reviews.  I'll try to play catch up over the next few days.

The first book I'm going to review is titled, "Angel Eyes" by Shannon Dittemore.  It is written for the teen aged book reader.  It is an action packed paranormal romance.  I found it to be very enjoyable.

 The main characters, Bree and Jake, were flawed enough to be believable.   Bree is a local girl who has returned home from a prestigious dance school amid tragic circumstances.  Jake is the new kid in town that nobody knows anything about.  I'm sure you can see where this is going.

The paranormal part of the book is also not that bad, at least as far as paranormal things go.  The title gives you a clue into what the paranormal parts are about.  Both,  Jake and Bree, have the ability to see into the angel realm.  Of course, "real" angels are involved and are important characters to the story.

I never like to give away the story in my reviews.  I hate it when others do that.  I feel like there is no point in reading it if you are just going to tell me everything about it.   I will tell you that this book has a good action based story.  You can't wait to find how things will turn out.  The romance is just a side story. 

This is the first in a trilogy.  I look forward to reading more in the future.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Friday, June 8, 2012

Although We Walk...

Although my family and I walk on many of our daily excursions, I still see that it is an exception rather than the rule.  Why is that?  When did it become so abnormal to walk to buy a few items at the store? 
These are the thoughts that were running through my mind as I walked to the library with my daughter today.

I live in a pedestrian friendly town.  We could stand to have more sidewalks but the side streets aren't crazy busy, so for the most part it's fine.  The university campus is less than a mile, general store is a few blocks, the post office & banks are even closer than that, and restaurants and entertainment are literally just around the corner.  Why is it when I go out I find that I am the only person on foot?

When did we, as a society, decide that we had to buy twenty bags of grocery items when we go to the store?  I don't know about you but I have a lot of food in my pantry and yet I still come home with more bags than I can carry.  Are we that spoiled? 

Having a child that, because of blindness, will not be driving in her future, I think about how people get from place to place.  Rather than being reliant on cars, public transportation, or taxi service, why don't many people feel that walking is a viable form of transportation?  People spend tons of time and walk many miles on treadmills.  Wouldn't it be time better spent if they walk those same miles to the store and walked home with an errand done?  Instead, we go from the gym to our cars and drive to the store and then back home.  That just seems like a waste of time when you spend any logical time thinking about it.

All this thinking has gotten to me.  I've decided to put my walking shoes where they belong, on the road to the store.  I'm going to be walking for my groceries here in town.  So, if you see me walking down the main drag (pictured above), you'll know why.  It's not that my car is in the shop or that my divers license got revoked.  I just think more people should use their feet for the purpose that God gave them to you.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Book Review: Quiet; The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain


What an enjoyable read.  I admit that when I ordered this book, I didn't think that I was going to like it very much.  I thought that it would be a very dry and academic study.  Wow, was I surprised by the content of this book.

"Quiet" gives numerous examples of how the U.S. came to prize extroverts.  Ms. Cain illuminates the transition from honoring the quiet, wise elder to idolizing the all American Ken doll ideal.  She pointed out things that I had noticed but never put much thought into connecting.  Such as, the people that we, as a society, hold up as "pillars" are those that enjoy being in the spotlight, those that enjoy speaking out, or those that can deliver a message the best.  They are not those that may have the best idea or those that can relate to a person on an individual basis.

Another aspect of this book that I really enjoyed was the empowerment I felt when reading it.  I found myself saying, "that's what I do." or  "I always feel that way."  It made me understand that I wasn't being anti-social or mean because I needed quiet time.   I felt that all the things that I thought made me weird or different than everyone, was really me just being an introvert.  That the idea of everyone being a social butterfly was skewed.  I had fallen prey to the marketing of the extrovert as an ideal!

For all those closet introverts out there, I would highly recommend this book.  For those of you with children that seem withdrawn and you just don't get it, run out and buy this book!

I was given this book by the publisher for the purpose of review.  All opinions are my own and not influenced by the publisher.

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Book Review: Spirit Fighter by Jerel Law


Here is another good young adult sci-fi novel.  I actually found this one to be better than most.  It's still not up there with the Percy Jackson's or Harry Potter's but it will hold you over.  "Spirit Fighter" is the first novel from Jerel Law but it won't be his last.  This is actually book one of the "Son of Angels" series.

The publisher, Thomas Nelson, lists this book as "an imaginative adventure that is based on scripture in the book of Genesis."  While that is a good description, it doesn't do the story justice.  The story doesn't get bogged down in scripture.  It does stress faith in God but it doesn't detract from the story.

The story follows the trials that Jonah Stone goes through when he tries to save his kidnapped mother.  Jonah finds out that his mother is a nephilim, daughter of a human and a fallen angel.  This in turns makes Jonah and his siblings one quarter angel.  Needless to say, this comes as quite a shock to the seventh-grader.

Mr. Law does a great job at making his characters likable and "real."  They aren't goody-goody or abnormally troubled.  The kids seem to be typical kids until their angel-ness starts to show.  I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys good vs. evil sci-fi stories.  I will look forward to reading the next book in the Jonah Stone series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertisin

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

One Month Report


Well, it's been one month since we became vegan.  I thought I'd give an update on how things are going.  I'd say over all they are going SUPER DUPER!  We really do feel good eating this way.  I am still surprised at how easy our conversion was to accomplish.  I expected a lot more cravings and several more "cave-ins" during the learning phase.

Some of the things we have noticed:
1. Taste buds change in about three weeks.
2. Acne does clear up with no milk products ingested
3. There are a lot of choices available in the small town grocery stores
4. Some recipes are a fail with or without meat
5. Kids like convenience foods
6. There ARE vegan convenience foods
7. No sugar cereal is a great snack
8. We have less food waste

9. Some people think we eat only salads
10 We eat a larger variety of foods now

We have tried several new recipes.  Some are really good no matter what kind of diet you follow.  My dear hubby made a lentil stew that was super yummy.   Southwest eggrolls are a favorite of the family.  They take a  bit of extra time to make so they aren't my favorite, just for that reason.  I had never really eaten much hummus before changing over.  Now, I can't get enough of it.  I could eat a hummus burrito or sandwich everyday for lunch.  Sweet potatoes as still not a favorite, but they are better than I used to think they were. 

We have allowed ourselves to have something off the diet if we REALLY wanted it.  After all, this is a choice not a punishment.  When we have had something, we have found that it didn't live up to the expectation.  That just shows how much the taste buds have changed.  We had a slice of pizza about two weeks into the change and it just didn't taste great.  Mind you, pizza has always been my "if you could only eat one food" food.  It just tasted greasy and heavy to me.  I was both glad and sad at the same time.  I'm going to have to find a new answer to that question. Maybe it will be hummus.

The children are good with sticking to the diet for the most part.  They do eat anything they want when we go out to eat.  That being said, they tend to choose lighter fare such as fish, salad, or a veggie sandwich.  At home they are good as long as they have some quick cook items.  They are big fans of Amy's brand burritos and, of course, cereal.

I know that this lifestyle isn't to everyone's liking.  That's OK.  It is a choice.  If you are sitting there thinking "there is no way!" then you are right.  There is no way for you to switch.  You have to WANT to do this.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Book Review: The Voice: New Testament

I was given a copy of "The Voice Bible" by Thomas Nelson Publishers.  What a great translation for the New Testament.  "The Voice" is set up in a modern language story format.  It makes it very accessable to the average reader.

The book uses several devices to differenciate between the types of translations contained.  The four types are as follows:

Standard Type: this is the dynamic translation of the Bible.
Italic Type:  these are words not directly tied to the standard type.
Delineated Material: This is for writtings that expand the theme found in the text.
Screenplay Format: This is used to show dialogue, eliminating the endless use of pronouns.

I really like how they did use these type styles.  It let me know, right up front, what was expanded.  It also made the dialogue much more engaging for me.  It was easily noted who was talking.  I didn't find myself looking back through for who Jesus was talking to or about.

I would recommend this Bible to anyone wanting a fresh way to read the Good Book.  Sometimes it is fun to read something that presents a clear visual while you read.  This is one of those.

Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the publisher for the purpose of review.  All opinions are my own and I was not made to give a positive review.


Friday, April 6, 2012

Book Giveaway!



I received a second copy of a great book titled "Breath of Angel" by Karyn Henley.  This is a really good Christian young adult fantasy novel.  Just leave a comment here and I'll have a drawing for the winner.  Make sure and leave an e-mail so I can get in touch with you.  You can get a second entry by following this blog.  Just leave another comment saying you did it.

Here is a link to my review of this book. http://drinnondaily.blogspot.com/2012/03/book-review-breath-of-angel-by-karyn.html

Drawing will be on Easter Sunday at 9am.

Good Luck!!

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Book Review: The Founders' Key by Larry P. Arnn

My wonderful husband was kind enough to guest review this book for me.  I thought this book would be right up his alley when I requested it.  I knew that it would not appeal to me.  So, the following review is from him.

"The Founders' Key" is an academic argument for the United States to reverse its recent history.  The author argues that we must return to adhering to the principles of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution and how these two documents are interoperable.  A government state is not included in these documents.

Initially, the book begins with rhetoric that comes across as more "Rush Limbaugh" than a well documented and thoughtful argumentative debate.  Eventually, the author  finds his stride.  Utilizing the words of the United States and Virginia's Declaration of Independence,  the U.S. Constitution, the Virginia and Massachusetts State Constitutions, and the Federalists Papers to strengthen his argument.  I truly enjoyed these moments in the book.  I also appreciated the reference sources available in the last third of the book.

Some major points that I did not enjoy include:
1.  Chapter 6 "Hypocrisy"-- This chapter dealt with the hypocrisies of our framers being defenders of equal rights and then owning other human beings.  To me, the author's content seemed to try in a small way to justify their slave holding positions.  We know some compromise was necessary, but if your true belief is that all men are created equal, you have to put your money where your moth is.  At the least, these men should have freed the slaves they owned.  You lead by example!

2.  I enjoy arguments and debates that are aimed at a broad audience, liberal and conservative alike.  I feel some of the rhetoric in the book will turn off the liberal crowd, the exact audience for which the debate should be aimed.  Most conservatives are already willing to agree with Dr. Arnn's thesis.  Despite my agreement, I feel the religious conservative slant is to evident in the prose to be effective at persuading the other side of the political aisle.

In summary, "The Founders' Key" is not light easy reading.  This is a strong academic interpretation of our country's movement (and the dangers of this movement) away from being true followers of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.  The reliance on the unelected, unregulated, and unintended "fourth branch" of government has created a movement toward a reliant welfare state and has changed our framers true intents that link these two documents.  The authors points and conclusions are extremely valid, and his quick touch upon a solution is, in my opinion, spot on.  But, will anyone dig deep enough to hear the message?

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Monday, April 2, 2012

Going Vegan!?! WHAT?


Well, I guess I'll come out of the proverbial closet.  I am switching to a whole-foods, plant-based lifestyle.  This is otherwise known as Vegan.  Now mind you, I'm not a PETA member nor feel that eating animal products is going to send you to Hell.  It is just a choice that I am making to improve my health.  After reading numerous articles and watching many documentaries, I truly feel that this is a good choice for everyone but I only control myself.

We have been at it for a week now.  Besides one dinner (a previously paid for and fixed banquet meal) we have not had any meat containing meals.  We are also going to be removing dairy products as well but did have some cheese on a couple of dishes this past week.  I think it is going great!

I've had more energy than I've had in months.  I've slept very well.  My head feels clearer, not foggy.  I have not had any cravings, either.  I do think that it helped that we gave up processed sugars a month or so ago.  It seems really easy so far.  I know it's been just a short time but I really think it will stick because we already notice a difference in how we feel.  When we did have the big banquet dinner, we all felt sluggish and almost sick afterwards.  Definitely not ready for a walk or work.

I know that you are all sitting there thinking I've lost my marbles.  Thinking that Sally is having another one of her crazy ideas.  Maybe you are right.  I guess only time will tell. 

I'd love to hear what you think.  If you have any vegan meals that you cook and love, please send it my way.  I'm really working at making our "normal" meals vegan.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Book Review: Breath of Angel by Karyn Henley



This is book one of the Angelaeon Circle series by Karyn Henley.  I recently did a review of book two, Eye of the Sword.  I gave it a good review and I really did enjoy reading it.  I wanted to read the first book but was a bit worried that in knowing how the story turns out that I wouldn't like it as well.  In hindsight, I needn't have worried.  I really liked this book. 

I didn't find myself knowing what was going to happen next.  I was surprised by this.  I especially enjoyed seeing how the two love interests came together. 

Here is a synopsis of the story from the back of the book:

The stranger’s cloak had fallen back, and with it, a long, white, blood-stained wing.




When Melaia, a young priestess, witnesses the gruesome murder of a stranger in the temple courtyard, age-old legends recited in song suddenly come to life. She discovers wings on the stranger, and the murderer takes the shape of both a hawk and a man.




Angels. Shape-shifters. Myths and stories—until now.



Melaia finds herself in the middle of a blood feud between two immortal brothers who destroyed the stairway to heaven, stranding angels in the earthly realm. When Melaia becomes a target, she finds refuge with a band of angels attempting to restore the stairway. But the restoration is impossible without settling an ancient debt—the “breath of angel, blood of man,” a payment that involves Melaia’s heart, soul, and destiny.



I highly recommend this book for those of you who like fantasy novels.  It has great action and a good love story.  The use of angels puts a unique twist on a typical story.

 
I was given this book by WaterBrook/Multnomah for review purposes.  I was not required to give a favorable review and all opinons are my own.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Book Review: Swipe by Evan Angler



I think in my last book review I complained about there being no original young adult books out there.  Well, let me say that I was wrong!  Swipe by Evan Angler (release date May 2012) is something fresh.  It was exciting and kept me guessing until the end.  It also left you with a great cliffhanger making you chomp at the bit to have the second book.  I haven't had that happen since The Hunger Games.

The story is set in a future America, after a civil war, environmental chaos, & world wars.  The U.S. is now known as the A.U., American Union.  Every person, 13 & up, can receive the Mark.  The Mark is required to do anything legal in the A.U.  such as have a job, buy anything, drive, even get health care.  Needless to say, only the criminals or outcasts don't get the Mark as soon as they can.

The hero of our story is Logan Langly.  He is a eighth grade boy just about to turn thirteen.  He is paranoid about getting the Mark because his sister didn't make it through the procedure.  She left the house on her thirteenth birthday and didn't ever come home again.  The family was told that she "didn't make it."  When Logan and his friends start to see strange things going on in his town, he is even more confused. 

This is a great book full of adventure and intrigue.  It takes a look at the power of governments and group mentality.  Is it right to do something just because everyone says you should?  Are the "bad guys" really bad?  Have you ever looked at them and decided for yourself? 

I highly recommend this book.  If you liked Matched or Hunger Games, this is another good choice for you or your kids.

I received this book from Thomas Nelson Publisher via NetGalley.com at no charge.  I was not required to give a review and all opinions are my own.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Book Review: Moonstone by Marilee Brothers

Here is another teen with magical powers book.  Everyone seems to be trying to cash in on the Twilight/Harry Potter craze.  I don't know why  authors seems to be unable to have an original idea.  I really think that young adults would be happy with a book that doesn't involve witches, werewolves, or vampires.  OK, I will now remove myself from the soapbox and continue my review.

Moonstone is centered around our heroine, Allie.  Allie has no idea that "magic" really exists, let alone that she has a destiny intertwined with the magical world.  Much like other popular teen magic stories, Allie comes from a broken home with a mother that seems to be a "good-for-nothing."  Thus, she has grown up faster that the average teen and has many adult like responsibilities.

The characters in Moonstone are fully developed even if several of them are unlikeable.   I found myself really detesting some of the lazier characters in the story.  I don't often find myself disliking a book because of secondary characters but this may be one of the exceptions.  That being said, I did like how real the characters actions were in different situations.  Allie seems to struggle with some of her decisions to be good.  She also isn't always nice to everyone.  Come on, who in the real world is always perky and sweet?  I also liked her love interest in the story.  He isn't your typical prince charming type.  He is an ex-gang member whom the police and everyone else thinks is still trouble.

Would I recommend this book?  I think I would recommend it to a real young adult but not to other adults that like reading juvenile fiction.  Will I read the other two books in the series?  Yes, but only when I'm wanting something simple and quick to read without the need to invest much into it.

I received a copy of The Moonstone Series from Bell Bridge Books through Netgalley.com for review.  I was not required to give a favorable review and all views are my own.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Book Review: Surprised By Laughter: The Comic World of C.S. Lewis by Terry Lindvall Ph.D.

Here is another one of those hard reviews.  I hate writing about books that I didn't like.  I'm always afraid that someone will not give a book a good look if I say that it was awful.  Do you like how much faith I have in my power of influence?   That being said, I did not like this book even one little bit.

When I read the description of this book, I was excited.  What do you think?

All of his life, C. S. Lewis possessed a spirit of individuality. An atheist from childhood, he became a Christian as an adult and eventually knew international acclaim as a respected theologian. He was known worldwide for his works of fiction, especially the Chronicles of Narnia; and for his books on life and faith, including Mere Christianity, A Grief Observed, and Surprised by Joy. But perhaps the most visible difference in his life was his abiding sense of humor. It was through this humor that he often reached his readers and listeners, allowing him to effectively touch so many lives.
Terry Lindvall takes an in-depth look at Lewis's joyful approach toward living, dividing his study of C. S. Lewis's wit into the four origins of laughter in Uncle Screwtape's eleventh letter to a junior devil in Lewis's The Screwtape Letters: joy, fun, the joke proper, and flippancy. Lindvall writes, "One bright and compelling feature we can see, sparking in his sunlight and dancing in his moonlight, is laughter. Yet it is not too large to see at once because it inhabited all Lewis was and did." 

Doesn't that sound like a look into all the funny things C.S. Lewis did and  was inspired by?  Well, that's what I thought it was going to be about.  It turns out to be a much more serious look into the study of laughter and humor in general.  It does refer to Lewis but isn't about Lewis.  I'll be honest, I didn't make it through the third chapter.  I had to force myself to read that far.

So,  if you are looking for a study and discussion on laughter & humor and how C.S. Lewis used it, this may be a good book for you.  It is not for you if you are looking for a light hearted look at Lewis' life.


 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
 




























That


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Terry Lindvall takes an in-depth look at Lewis's joyful approach toward living, dividing his study of C. S. Lewis's wit into the four origins of laughter in Uncle Screwtape's eleventh letter to a junior devil in Lewis's The Screwtape Letters: joy, fun, the joke proper, and flippancy. Lindvall writes, "One bright and compelling feature we can see, sparking in his sunlight and dancing in his moonlight, is laughter. Yet it is not too large to see at once because it inhabited all Lewis was and did."
Surprised by Laughter reveals a Lewis who enjoyed the gift of laughter, and who willingly shared that gift with others in order to spread his faith.

Monday, February 13, 2012

Book Review: Eye of the Sword by Karyn Henley

This book is the second book in the Angelaeon Circle series.  It will be released on March 14, 2012.  Not having read the first book in the series I was a bit leery about how well I'd like this one.  I've found that you spend a good amount of time trying to fill in the blanks in the storyline.  I am happy to say that this book did a good job of making a stand alone story.

The hero of our story is Trevin.  He serves as a comain (like knight) to King Laetham.  He is also in love with the princess Melaia.  We follow Trevin on his quest to prove his worth to the King and Melaia.  The quest is full of good and evil, as any good quest does. Here is an excerpt from the back of the book.


To prove himself worthy of a princess, Trevin must first defeat the terror of his past.

In Camrithia, a land of shadows and mystical secrets, Trevin lives to serve King Laetham. But his heart belongs to the princess, Melaia. When the king sends Trevin on a dangerous quest to find the missing comains, he must leave Melaia to the advances of a swaggering Dregmoorian prince.

Challenged to prove his worth, Trevin throws himself into his quest. Challenged to prove his love, Trevin undertakes a second mission—find the harps Melaia seeks in order to restore the stairway to heaven. Through fire caves, rogue winds, and murderous threats, Trevin remains steadfastly dedicated to his quest—even when he is falsely accused of a heinous crime. As Trevin’s time runs out, he realizes he must face the shame and horror of his own past and the terror-dream that has come to life. Will he have the courage to finish what he has started?

This is a Christian book aimed at the young adult market.  I thought that it was a very entertaining story.  I'm even going to get the first in the series.  It was that interesting.  I liked the setting, being set in a medieval type land.  I liked the characters being human, angels, immortals, or some combination of the two. 

If you or your young reader likes action/adventure tales, this is a good choice.  I'm sure they would be happy with it.

I received this book for review from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers.  All opinions are my own and I was not obligated to give a positive review.

Friday, February 3, 2012

February Books

Here is the stack of books waiting to be read by me this month.  I'm not so sure I'm going to be able to get through all of them.  Let's talk about them from the bottom up.  Shall we?

Choosing Simplicity:  Real People Finding Peace and Fulfillment in a Complex World by Linda Breen Pierce--  I've started reading this one and so far it is AWESOME.  It has individuals stories about how they came to desire the simple lifestyle.  It features all kinds of different levels of simplicity so you can find someone to relate.    I did have to put this book away because it was make me sad that I couldn't do, right now, all the things that I want to.  I will continue to pick it up and read but only in short bursts.  That is all I can handle right now.

Surprised by Laughter: The Comic World of C.S. Lewis by Terry Lindvall-- I received this book to review.  It is about C.S. Lewis and his "joyful approach to life."  Well, I must admit to struggling with this one.  I'm two chapters into it and it is just talking about how laughter impacts us.  It hasn't been the biography type book, that I thought it was going to be, at all yet.  I will be posting a review of it later.  Right now, I'm forcing myself to read a chapter here and there.  UGH! I hope it improves soon.

Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen--  I feel like I'm the late one on this book.  I've read the first chapter and it really caught my attention.  The character of Jacob already feels very real.  I'm excited to get back to this one.  I had to put it aside while I finished up a book from last month.

Eat Here: Homegrown Pleasures in a Global Supermarket by Brian Halweil-- This one has been on my wish list for a while.  It looks at the local food movement.  It, also, discusses the current world wide food delivery system and how it effects local farmers.  I'm excited to read this one and hope it motivates me to buy more local items.

Eye of the Sword: A Novel (The Angelaeon Circle) by Karyn Henley--  Another one that I've received to review.  This is the second in a series.  I have not read the first one.  I'm hoping that this won't be a problem.  After reading the first chapter,  it looks to be a good one.  It seems like a Christian Sci-Fi.  I'm a sucker for a good knight, princess, angel, evil monster book.  I think this one will be a quick read.

Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin-- I got introduced to this book by a recommendation from a patron of paperbackswap.com.  I have already finished this one.  It was a quick one-day read.  I really enjoyed it.  The story is about a 15 y/o girl who dies unexpectedly.  We then follow her into the afterlife.  The authors depiction of the afterlife was one that I hadn't really seen before and I thought it was a good one.  If you like Young Adult Fiction, then you should give this one a look.

Mrs. Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs-- The picture above is of my Kindle.  I am in the middle of this unusual book.  I'm really enjoying it so far.  Why this book is so unusual is that it uses pictures, snapshots, to help enhance the story.  Even on the Kindle this adds a whole new level to the believability of a fantasy book.  This is another one that I think should be a quick read.  I haven't managed to make it quick but it's my first on the e-reader and I'm still getting used to it.

Bard: The Odyssey of the Irish by Morgan Llywelyn-- This one I haven't really investigated very much.  I've read other books by Morgan Llywelyn and really liked the detail and history included.  This one being about a bard and Irish, I just couldn't pass it up.

Well, that is quite a list for the short month of February.  We will see if I can manage to get them all in during the self-imposed time limit.  Upon reading back over this post, I've discovered that I read the first chapter of many books.  I didn't realize that I did that before.  Even at the ripe old age of 41, we can still learn things about ourselves.

Monday, January 16, 2012

A Sound Among the Trees by Susan Meissner published by WaterBrook Press. From the back of the book:

As a young bride, Susannah Page was rumored to be a Civil War spy for the North, a traitor to her Virginian roots. Her great-granddaughter Adelaide, the current matriarch of Holly Oak, doesn't believe that Susannah's ghost haunts the antebellum mansion looking for a pardon, but rather the house itself bears a grudge toward its tragic past.

When Marielle Bishop marries into the family, it isn't long before she is led to believe that the house she just settled into brings misfortune to the women who live there.

With Adelaide's richly peppered superstitions and deep family roots at stake, Marielle must assort out the truth about Susannah Page and Holly Oak—and make peace with the sacrifices she has made for love.


I've got to say that I enjoyed this book.  It wasn't really like what I thought it was going to be.  I thought it would be more of a historical romance.  It turned out that it was more of a relational study.  The story examines the relationships as they truly are and what they are perceived to be.  


I really enjoyed the part of the book that dealt with Susannah's letters.  I think it is because it more closely resembles a historical romance at that point in the story.


If you enjoy stories that deal with characters and how they interact with each other and the motivations behind their personalities, this is a great choice for you.  


I was given this book by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers for the purpose of review.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday, January 9, 2012

What I'm Reading Right Now





I told myself that I was going to do better about posting what my current reads are.  Well, here it is.  The first of the "What I'm Reading Right Now" posts.  I'm going to attempt to put up a picture every month  of my current pile-o-books.  

On this pile is:
"A Sound Among The Trees" by Susan Meissner
"The Night Circus" by Erin Morgensteen
"Gentlemen & Players" by Joanne Harris
"A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin
"I'll Be Watching You" by Andrea Kane

All of these authors are new to me.  I know that Harris, Martin, & Kane have published a lot of books each.  I've just never stumbled upon them before.  OK, I'll admit it.  I found out about them on Pinterest.  It's amazing what you can find on there. LOL!  

"The Night Circus" is Morgensteen's first novel and so far it's really interesting.  It's set in the 1800's on the Illusionist circut.  I'm only a few chapters into it so far and I'm sure it will go fast.

"A Sound Among The Trees" is a book that was sent to me for review.  I've finished reading it and now just need to write up my thoughts.  It will be a positive review.

I picked the other ones for various reasons.  The only one worth mentioning is "A Game Of Thrones."  I picked it because they have made a television series based on it.  I figure if it is that popular it should be a good read.  I'll be sure to let you know if that comes to fruition.

Friday, January 6, 2012

Cutting the Cable Cord


One of the biggest ways we've saved time and money over the past few years is by cutting television.  We canceled our cable service back in 2009.  At the time, it was just for a trial period of three months.  I had figured we had to wait that long to pay for reinstalling.  I thought SURELY we could go that long without Disney Channel or ESPN.  Those seemed to be the main channels that were being watched at our house at that time.

Needless to say, I had a couple of children that weren't to keen on this idea of mine.  To be honest, my husband wasn't sure either.  He really enjoyed watching SportsCenter over and over and over.  I took the time to point out what they were spending their time watching.  I then showed them ways they could still watch those shows without cable.

For children's shows, I pointed out all the DVDs and VHS movies we owned.  It seems that the cable channels just show repeats most of the time anyway.  What difference is there between watching the reruns from cable or watching them from DVD? None in my opinion.  I also took the time to find all the shows available for FREE on the Internet.  After just a tiny amount of looking, we found that just about everything you watch on cable is available for free on the net.

We then tackled the sports dilemma.  This one isn't as easily solved.  There are tons of events available to view live online but we've found that the quality isn't that great.  Perhaps if you owned a better computer or had faster Internet service it would be better.  Also, with just a little practice and patience, my husband has found that he enjoys reading about his teams online.  He, now, doesn't like, as much, all the extra stuff they talk about on ESPN.  He has also found enjoyment from sports talk radio.  Between the two, he stays on top of everything without spending his whole afternoon on the couch.  What if there is a big game?  We make it an event for everyone by going out to watch the game at a restaurant or a friends home.  What about all the big plays he misses seeing?  Trust me when I say that any play worth watching is shown on the net.  You just don't have to watch it more times that you care to see it.

One other thing that people comment when I tell them about being without local or cable TV is "What do you do during bad weather?"  Well, it's simple, just check the weather on the Internet or even on your phone.  All the local news channels live stream newscasts when there are tornadoes on the ground.  I actually feel better about storms because I'm watching the radar closer than I would if I were watching the local weather channel.

Now that I've told you how we overcame the big worries, let me tell you the practical steps to changing over.  Most newer TVs have HDMI cable ports on the back.  For those of us older folks, it's just a fancy cable similar to the ones we used to screw into the back of the TV.  This cable lets you hook your desktop or laptop computer directly to your television.  The cable itself doesn't cost very much and is available at any store that sells electronics.  The television we got recently even came with an HDMI cable.  This allows you to watch shows on the big TV instead of the little computer monitor.  This makes a big difference in enjoyment level.

There are other devices (boxee, roku) that you can purchase that let you watch Internet TV without using a computer.  I didn't think these were a very good deal.  I would rather have a multipurpose item like a laptop then a subscription service.  

In the interest of full disclosure, we do have a Netflix subscription.  We didn't have it for the first year.  We decided to add the minimum streaming subscription to add variety to our viewing choices.  It is less than buying a movie or two a month.  We've really enjoyed having Netflix.  We are able to watch it on our Wii, Xbox360, & computer.   I think we would be fine with out it but for $10/ month you can't beat it. We also just bought a Google TV after our laptop died.  This TV came Internet ready.  What that means is that the TV acts as a computer.  It connects wirelessly to our Internet and we can surf the net and watch Netflix on it.  I can only see this TV getting better and better over the next couple of years as more apps. become available.

All in all, we don't miss not having television at all.  Both kids will tell you that watching  regular TV now drives them crazy.  There are soooo many commercials and sooooo many reruns.  Plus, they have found all kinds of shows that they love to watch that aren't available on network TV.  So, be brave! Cut the Cable Cord in 2012!