Merry Christmas!!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all my blog friends and families!!

I hope you have a safe and fun holiday!!

Wishing many books come in to your possession during the holidays!!!

Take care and drive safe in your travels!!

Books and Reviews are coming....

 

 

I am planning to get a number of reviews up over the weekend! I have quite a few books, so I might just give a small snip-it of reviews for some, just so I can get them all up!!

I hope you come back and check them all out!!!

 

Keep warm!!

Test 2

Let's try this again and see if I can get a photo in a different place.

I have wanted text on one side and photo to the other side!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At least I can get a picture between paragraphs !

Testing Scribefire....

Let's try again!

Has anyone used Scribefire before?? Like, dislike?? Let me know!

Here is a picture I think is really pretty!

From Drop Box

Book Review - "What I Thought I Knew" by Alice Eve Cohen

Synopsis (from back cover):

Alice Cohen was happy for the first time in years. After a difficult divorce, she had a new love in her life, she was raising a beloved adopted daughter, and her career was blossoming. Then, she started experiencing mysterious symptoms. After months of tests, X-rays, and inconclusive diagnoses, Alice was sent for an emergency CAT scan that revealed the truth: she was six months pregnant.

At age 44, with no prenatal care and no insurance coverage for a high-risk pregnancy, Alice was besieged by opinions from doctors and friends about what was ethical, what was loving, what as right. With the intimacy of a diary and the suspense of a thriller, What I Thought I Knew is a ruefully funny, wickedly candid take; a story of of hope and renewal that turns all of the 'knowns" upside down.

Review:

This was an engrossing book of a women's life that will bring you to tears of laughter, joy and sadness. The author, Alice Cohen, writes her memoir in a theatrical and almost over the top manner that grabs you from the beginning and keeps a hold of you through her ride of experiences with the healthcare system. Yes, it's a story about how she finds out she is pregnant and not sure if she wants to keep it, but there are so many more other things going on in her life that you are sure to find something you can relate too. Adoption, abortions, age differences, disability, career choices, divorce; these are just a few of the life experience we all may go through. It really tugged at my heart the few times I thought that Michael was going to leave Alice because of her decision, but it was her tough love that helped her get through some of the toughest moments and decisions.

I commend Ms. Cohen for sharing her experience and the choices she made for herself and her family. Everyone might not agree with some of her opinions or choices, but we all have to make our own decisions that we believe are right at the time they occur.

I would highly recommend this book be added to everyone's TBR list!! Take the time to read a well written memoir that will stay with you days after finishing it!!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Author website: Alice Cohen

Thank you to Book Sparks Publishing and Lisa Steinke for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I am in no way compensated for this review.

My first poll question!!!

Update: Only a few days left to vote!! Come on! I know there are more people out there!! VOTE today!!!!

I am trying out some of the gadgets on Blogger and thought a poll question would be fun!!! Would you please take just a moment to answer my poll!!! Just look on the left column of my blog and you will see the poll question!!

If there is genre I missed that you read...let me know..and I can add it!! The poll will be going until next Wednesday!

Thanks for taking the time to take the poll!!! I will publish the results after the poll ends!!

Addendum: Oopss..I forgot a BIG genre.. SciFi/Fantasy!!! Sorry you guys...see that is what happens when you do something for the first time...LOL...Ok..If you want to vote for Scifi/Fantasy...add it as a vote in comments..and I will add it to the poll when I tally it all up on my post!!! SORRY!!!

Winner of the giveaway is.....

And the Winner of the Giveaway is...

Team JC

Congratulations!!!

I will be emailing you to get your information to have the book sent out to you!!!

Thank you to all that entered!!! Come back soon...I am going to have another giveaway soon!!

Amazon's Best of 2010 Books...How many have you read??

Have you seen Amazon's list of the Best Books of 2010 ? If you haven't, go to the list and take a look at it. I am just curious to see how many of you have read any of the top 10 books on each of the lists. Leave me a comment with which one's you have read!

On the Editors List..of the top ten..I sorry to say I hadn't read ANY of them. I do have "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest" on my list to read.

On the Customer List ..of the top ten.. I've only read "Mockingjay".

On the Editors Top 10 Mystery/Thriller list...I've read "The Passage" (I need to get that review up!!).

First thing this tells me?? I am NOT reading enough...hahahah!!! But on the other hand it amazes me to see the variety of books on the lists. There sure is something for everyone!!

Hope everyone is have a great fall!!

Book Giveaway...last chance!

Today is the last chance to enter my book giveaway for a copy of "Perfection" !!!! Head to my review and giveaway posting for the book HERE and read the review and then read the giveaway rules at the end and enter in the comments on that post!!!

You have until 10:00pm CT tonight to enter!!!

Good Luck!!

Book Review - "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins

Synopsis:

Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she's made it out of the bloody arena alive, she's still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. Who do they think should pay for the unrest? Katniss. And what's worse, President Snow has made it clear that no one else is safe either. Not Katniss's family, not her friends, not the people of District 12. Powerful and haunting, this thrilling final installment of Suzanne Collins's groundbreaking The Hunger Games trilogy promises to be one of the most talked about books of the year.

Review:

The eagerly anticipated #3 book in the Hunger Games series, Mockingjay, was good...just not as good as the first two books. Don't worry, I won't be giving away any spoilers for this much read and loved series. I will say that the story is much more war and political then the first two books, which focused more on the 'games.'

The author kept the 3 main characters away from each other a lot in this book it seemed to me, which I understood, but it made the story go in to lulls sometimes. I loved the contrast in character Katniss expressed in herself as she interacts with Peeta and Gale. She is so much harder in character with Gale, but much more softer with Peeta. I will tell you that the 'who does she choose' gets answered by the end of the book!!

I have mixed feelings ...as much as I love the series, the ending wasn't quite what I was hoping (wanting?)!!! I don't want you to think I didn't like the book because I did...I guess I was wanting something more.

I look forward to seeing how the movie version of "Hunger Games" is made. The subject matter of the games is going to be hard to convey on screen with all the 'killings.' We shall see!!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Part of:

Friday Find...a new meme to follow!!

I was just over at Bibliophile By the Sea and saw her post for a new meme that I can relate to since I am definitely over 40 too!!! It is hosted by Java at Never Growing Old and called...Follow Friday 40 and Over! Its a great way to meet new bloggers!! So head over there HERE now to join this weeks linky and see over 100 bloggers already listed!!!

Perfection - Review and Giveaway!!!

Synopsis:

Julie Metz had seemingly the perfect life—an adoring husband, a happy, spirited daughter, a lovely old house in a quaint suburban town—but it was all a lie.

Julie Metz's life changed forever on one ordinary January afternoon when her husband, Henry, collapsed on the kitchen floor and died in her arms. Suddenly, this mother of a six-year-old became the young widow in her bucolic small town. But that was only the beginning. Seven months after Henry's death, just when Julie thought she was emerging from the worst of it, came the rest of it: She discovered that what had appeared to be the reality of her marriage was but a half-truth. Henry had hidden another life from her.

Perfection is the story of Metz's journey through chaos and transformation as she creates a different life for herself and for her young daughter. It is the story of rebuilding both a life and an identity after betrayal and widowhood, of rebirth and happiness—if not perfection.

Review:

"Perfection" is an interesting look into one woman's emotional journey and how she deals with the highs and lows she goes through to find herself once again. The beginning of the book was emotional for me when the author talks about how her husband dies and how she deals with it. This first third of the book move along well and was well written, but the rest of the book seemed very rushed. It seemed as though Ms. Metz wanted to make sure to get ALL the details of the affairs written in to the book, before she got to how she coped with it all. It just lost my interest enough to skim over most of the rest of the book. I'm sure it was an emotional experience finding out about all those women, but for me...it was too much extra information. The last third of the book had me cheering her for going forward in life, but some of her actions I question (in my opinion). Everyone leads their own life, whether we the reader agree, we can only hope that she continues to love herself and her family.

I am glad Ms. Metz found the courage and love within herself to write the book and find solace in her life to go on!! Those of us who are widows/widowers can attest to the fact that life throws you a curve ball when you lose a spouse (or anyone close to you).

Since everyone agrees and disagrees about liking a book, I would still suggest you give the book a chance and read it. Some of the reviews I have seen love it..other not. Give it a try and see what you think!!!

Thank you to Lisa Steinke, publicist at BookSparks PR for the Advance Reader book I received to review.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Julie-Metz/132749525472

Website: http://www.perfectionbook.com/

Rating: 3 out 5 stars

****

Book Giveaway!!!

Giving away a copy of the book to a lucky winner!!

Going to make this easy!!

1. One entry allowed - Leave a comment on this post - Tell me what your favorite candy bar is!!!

2. Giveaway is for US/Canada shipping addresses only....sorry!

3. Contest open until Wednesday Nov 17 at 1000p CT...

GOOD LUCK!!!!

Blogfest winner!!! Sorry for the delay.....

Sorry for the delay in announcing my giveaway winner...but here it is...

the winner is.....

Inspired Kathy

at

I am a Reader not a Writer

Congrats !!!

I will be emailing the winner and they have 48hrs to respond back. If they do not, a new winner will be announced!!!

Thanks again to everyone who took the time to enter and are now following me!!!!

Due to my busy schedule..I didn't have a giveaway for the Blogger Week...BUT...check back tomorrow, Sunday...I will hopefully have a book review and possibly a giveaway set up for next week!!!

Book Blogger Appreciation Week Sept. 13 - 17!!!

Ok...I totally forgot about this!!! I was a part of this fun event last year and it was a blast!!! So, I am going to have to have another giveaway!! But what to give away!!! I am going to have to sleep on it...and put up a post Tuesday afternoon!!

Make sure to check out the Book Blogger Appreciation Blog !!!

Come back tomorrow!!!! See you then!

Blogfest is over!! Thank you all!!

I am totally overwhelmed!! I want to send out a BIG THANK YOU to all of you for entering my Blogfest 2010 giveaway! and for stopping by my blog! I hope many of you will come back and check out my reviews and other odds and ends I post!!! I loved seeing ALL the blogs involved in Blogfest...a lot of fun and different blogs out there!!

I was blown away by how many entries I got, so I am apologizing now that it is going to take me a couple days to have the winner announcement!! It was fun reading everyone's answer to what book was #1 on your TBR list. I am going to compile a list of the books, which should be fun to see all of them and which book was mentioned the most!!

Thank you to Cinnamon Brown at A Journey of Books for organizing Blogfest 2010!!!!

Have a good week everyone!!

Murder is Binding by Lorna Barrett

Synopsis:

Stoneham, New Hampshire, was a dying town until community leaders invited booksellers to open shop. Now, its streets are lined with bookstores--and paved with murder…

When she moved to Stoneham, city-slicker Tricia Miles was met with friendly faces. And when she opened her mystery bookstore, she met with friendly competition. But when she finds Doris Gleason dead in her own cookbook store, killed by a carving knife, the atmosphere seems more cutthroat than cordial. Someone wanted to get their hands on the rare cookbook that Doris had recently purchased--and the locals think that someone is Tricia. To clear her name, Tricia will have to take a page out of one of her own mysteries--and hunt down someone who isn’t killing by the book…

I love cozy mysteries!!! I had been wanting to read this book and the rest of this series for a while, so I finally decided to make them my 'purse book'!! What is that? Well, I keep the book only in my purse and read it only when I am at work on break or somewhere waiting and needing to pass the time.

Murder is Binding is the first book of the series called "A Booktown Mystery" by Lorna Barrett. It has all the things I love in it. A strong single woman, a bookstore, a small town and a murder to solve! I could live in this book and be very happy (except I would change Tricia's cat to a dog if I lived there). The author has written some great quirky characters that make you smile and laugh throughout the book. The mystery of who-dun-it is very well written and makes you wonder who it is up until the very end of the story. Sister rivalry, a sheriff that holds grudges and men who only think of business are only a few side stories that fill the many pages of this murder mystery.

I am already reading the next book in the series "Bookmarked for Death" and am enjoying it just as much!!

Rating:

4 out of 5 stars!!! Go buy it now!!!

Bitten by Books Blogfest Giveaway!!

Head on over to Bitten By Books to enter her giveaway for Blogfest!! Her prize is a Kindle 3! and she has a lot of ways to get extra points! BBB is also a really great blog! So take a moment to look it over!!

Book Review: The Wild Irish Sea by Loucinda McGary

Synopsis:

Drawn together by a force they can't resist...

The telepathic image of her twin brother fighting for his life sends Amber O'Neill rushing to the rocky shores of Ireland. Desperate to find him, she turns to reclusive local inspector Kevin Hennessey.

Bound together with a passion as relentless as the tide...

His past full of pain, Kevin has withdrawn from the world. But when the rain-drenched American appears on his doorstep with her wild tales of danger, something more than her sensuous beauty makes it impossible for him to turn her away.

The wildness of the sea, the mystery of a selkie prince, and a dangerous band of ruthless smugglers bring two lost souls together in a connection of mind, body, and spirit that can't be denied.

Review:

I highly recommend this new book by Loucinda McGary!! I've read both "Wild Sight" and "The Treasures of Venice" (see my reviews in this blog) and once again the author pulls you in to a story about 2 main characters that are drawn to one another by forces unknown to them. An Irish man, Kevin...an American woman, Amber..,both struggling with issues from their past, must work together to find Amber's brother before it's too late. The description of the landscape and town's of Ireland are beautifully written. I am ready to leave for Ireland NOW!!

With the mix of paranormal, mystery and romance, this book will be enjoyed by many readers. Ok, well..especially those of us that like those "Irish guys!!" Keep writing them Loucinda!!!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars!!!

Part of the:

Are you ready?? Blogfest 2010 has begun!!! GIVEAWAY time !!!!!

Welcome everyone to Blogfest 2010!!!! Join the fun of seeing all the book blogs that are out there to read and enjoy (as far as I can see over 260 in just this blogfest!)!

There is a list of all the blogs involved and all about the giveaways over at A Journey of Books. Make sure to start at the beginning of the list and hop from one blog to the next (each will link to the next blog in line). For example, after checking out my blog #237, please make sure to hop on over to Biz Mommy #238 to see their blog and giveaway!!!

I've been away for a while, but am back to doing reviews!!! So I am hoping this will rejuvenate my readership and get others to come back! I've got alot of good reviews coming up!!!!

Now time for the fun!!!!!

GIVEAWAY!!!!

I am going to be giving away to one winner.....a......

$20.00 Amazon e-gift card !!!!!!

Contest rules:

1. Just leave me a comment with what book is #1 on you TBR list that you might get using the gift card. PLEASE make sure to leave your email address in your comment so that I can contact you if you win! No email..no can win :-) This will give you one entry!!

2. Follow my blog - one extra entry

3. Follow my blog on Facebook - one extra entry ( go to Allison's Attic Page on Facebook)

4. Tweet about this giveaway - one extra entry ( please comment using link to tweet)

5. This giftcard is only valid for use on amazon.com ( so only enter if you have access to using this u.s. site and u.s. dollars).

6. Contest runs from 12am Fri. Sept 10th - 11:59pm Sun Sept 12th. (EST)

Thanks for entering ....and I hope you enjoy the BLOGFEST 2010!!!

Please come back soon!!! New review will be up on Saturday!!!!

Book Review - Reasons by Tracy Fabre

Synopsis:

Delphi Brent, seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident as a teenager, is ready to spend the summer with old family friends when her parents make a distressing confession: the driver of the car that nearly killed her was one of the three sons of the Laughlin family she's about to visit. They urge her to stay home and let the past be, but she resolves to go out West anyway to learn the truth about what happened the night she was struck and one of the Laughlin sons died. However, in reconnecting with the Laughlins, who operate a sprawling ranch in Colorado, Delphi learns a lot not only about brothers and families, but also about the reasons people keep secrets, and what to do with the truth once it's uncovered. She also falls in love with one of the Laughlin brothers, and that wasn't part of the plan at all.

Review:

This is an intriguing story about searching for one answer, but finding much more. I enjoyed the character of Delphi. The author, Tracy Fabre, wrote a strong woman character that speaks her mind and does what she needs to to find peace in her life. Surrounded by the beautiful Colorado ranch, the story intertwines numerous characters that affect each other as Delphi solves the mystery of not only her past, but that of other family members and town folk. Romance is in the air for Delphi during her stay, but is it the right choice? You will have to wait and see!

Once you start this book, you will not want to put it down until the last page is read. It's like looking in to the life of all the characters with no one knowing you are there. I love it when a book wraps you into the story like that!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Book Review - Truly, Madly by Heather Webber

Synopsis:

Lucy Valentine is as smart as can be, as single as you can get, and so not qualified to run a matchmaking service. But when her parents temporarily step down from the family business, Valentine, Inc., it’s Lucy’s turn to step up and help out—in the name of love.

Plus, her rent is due.

Here’s the problem: Lucy doesn’t have the knack for matchmaking. According to family legend, every Valentine has been blessed by Cupid with the ability to read “auras” and pair up perfect couples. But not Lucy. Her skills were zapped away years ago in an electrical surge, and now all she can do is find lost objects. What good is that in the matchmaking world? You’d be surprised. In a city like Boston, everyone’s looking for something. So when Lucy locates a missing engagement ring—on a dead body—she asks the sexy private eye who works upstairs to help her solve the perfect crime. And who knows? Maybe she’ll find the perfect love while she’s at it…

Review:

This is a quirky, cozy mystery book that will tickle your fancy and leave you wanting more! You will get a little paranormal romance with the family matchmaking business, some suspense when Lucy gets involved with a missing person case and fun filled humor throughout the book. All the characters are lovable and you are truly wanting romance to blossom...for someone!! It looks like Valetine's Inc. will be going on for a while in future books!!

I would recommend "Truly, Madly" to anyone that wants looking for a fun, cozy mystery book!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars


Author website: Heather Webber
Next book: Deeply, Desperately August 2010

Book Review - Hannah's List by Debbie Macomber

Synopsis:
"My darling Michael, I know this letter will come as a shock to you…."

On the anniversary of his beloved wife's death, Dr. Michael Everett receives a letter Hannah had written him.

In it she reminds him of her love and makes one final request. An impossible request—I want you to marry again. She tells him he shouldn't spend the years he has left grieving her. And to that end she's chosen three women she asks him to consider.

First on Hannah's list is her cousin, Winter Adams, a trained chef who owns a café on Seattle's Blossom Street. The second is Leanne Lancaster, Hannah's oncology nurse. Michael knows them both. But the third name is one he's not familiar with—Macy Roth.

Each of these three women has her own heartache, her own private grief. More than a year earlier, Winter broke off her relationship with another chef. Leanne is divorced from a man who defrauded the hospital for which she works. And Macy lacks family of her own, the family she craves, but she's a rescuer of strays, human and animal. Macy is energetic, artistic, eccentric—and couldn't be more different from Michael.

During the months that follow, he spends time with Winter, Leanne and Macy, learning more about each of them…and about himself. Learning what Hannah already knew. He's a man who needs the completeness only love can offer. And Hannah's list leads him to the woman who can help him find it.

Review:

"Hannah's List" is a fascinating story of one man's struggle to make the step forward of finding love again, while 3 women try and find their own life paths. Debbie Macomber writes an amazing story of personal loss and learning to go on with life around you. The main character, Michael, struggles to understand why his wife choose these 3 women for him to date and possibly marry. I enjoyed the differences between these 3 women and how they interacted differently with Michael. How do you know what you're type is after being with the same person for so long? As the story went along, I kept switching between the women who I thought he would end up with because he seemed to fit with all of them! The side characters were wonderful, especially Macy's neighbor, Harvey, who would be a real hoot to meet in a real life situation. I love people who just speak what is on their mind!

On a personal note, I can relate to a lot of what Michael felt and struggled with in his loss. My husband and I had conversations about the 'what if' situations while he was sick, but he didn't leave me a letter like Hannah did. Will you remarry or not? Do you want me to or not? Do I want to or not? It's a thought you really don't want to think about...at anytime. My answer keeps changing. Before he died..I said maybe..after he died...no way...and now.. 5 years after he passed?? I just take each day and see what happens.

The book is an easy read and hard to put down once you get started. It's a great story of the strength of love that can be had between two people and the hope that maybe it can happen again some day.....

Rating: 5 out of 5

Book Review - A Place for Delta by Melissa Walker

Synopsis:
Joseph can hardly believe what he has been asked to do. His Aunt Kate is waiting for him at a research station and needs help taking care of an orphaned polar bear cub only a few months old. He will leave his friends and family and venture to the farthest northern town in the United States: Barrow, Alaska.

As the adventure unfolds, Joseph and his new found Eskimo friend Ada find mysteries wherever they look. The bear cub, Delta, remains in danger. Who would want a polar bear dead? Joseph will have to look to the North Georgia woods and his family to save Delta.

When his parents were kids, they too embarked on an excursion into the unknown. Their encounters with the wilderness beyond their backyard have molded the future for Joseph and Delta. A Place for Delta is about one family’s journey--a passage born in the Appalachian mountains and leading to the Arctic.

Review:

I really looked forward to reading "A Place for Delta", since it was based in Barrow, Alaska (my uncle lived there for a while). The writing is simple and clear , though repetitive it seemed in a few places in the storyline. This may have been due to the level the book is written for, which is the pre-teen age level (9-13yrs old). I enjoyed the wilderness protection awareness the author, Melissa Walker, surrounds the story with. From Joseph learning about animal protection to the land protection from oilmen, the story mesmerizes you in the rural Alaskan landscape and lifestyle. The author keeps your interest peaked by the adventure Joseph and Ada (the local Alaskan girl Joseph befriends) have in helping solve a mystery. By using secret note taking and 'tailing' a suspect, the two of them are an important assets to tracking down the bad guys!

Now, there were adults in the book too..I don't want to leave them out. I loved how the adult parents let their children explore and find things out for themselves, by being protective, but not overprotective. My feeling is that these days parents don't get their kids outside to explore more! and go with them!!

Overall, this was an enjoyable and fun read that I would really recommend for kids and adults alike! After reading the book, it makes me want to go Alaska more than I already did!!

For more information about the book go to the website: A Place for Delta

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

New Release - Wind Warrior by Cynthia Roberts

On Tuesday June 15th, an amazing new novel by Cynthia Roberts was released. It is the first book in "The Iroquois Series". Here is the synopsis of the book:

"Leslie Michaels is a visionary, and only those close to her know of her special gift and the visions that come when her mind and body surrender to sleep. Fate has a way of righting many wrongs, and for Leslie it is a destiny that changes her life dramatically. But not before she is forced to flee into the wilderness to escape a murderous trapper bent on claiming her for his very own. Faith and a strong will to survive are her only companions, until she encounters Winnokin, the handsome Seneca war chief who first came to her in her dreams. Not only does he prove to be her rescuer and protector, he teaches her that tragedy can breed happiness and the passion to live and love deeply once again.

Wind Warrior plunges readers into the intimate depths of a relationship that unfolds like a live drama before their eyes while painting an insightful and intriguing portrait of Native Indian life in the 1800s. It is a story of longing, of a wanton need to survive all odds, and a love so strong it conquers human evil. Wind Warrior expresses with cunning words the simple, raw human emotions that hold readers spellbound and captivate their hearts."

I would love for you to take a look at the book trailer ... see it HERE

I'm a bit behind on my book reading...but I am really looking forward to reading this book! I love this time period and the theme that surrounds this book. So look for my review of this books....coming soon!!!!

Book Giveaway Winner!!!

The Book Giveaway winner chosen by Random.org is:
#3
Grant

Congratulations to Grant!!

Thank you all for entering...watch toward the end of the week...I am going to have a BIG giveaway that will celebrate my blogging anniversary!!!

Have a great week...and keep coming back!!!

Oh..and don't forget!! You can still buy this great book at Amazon!!!

Book Giveaway!!! "Back to the Homeplace"

BACK TO THE HOMEPLACE

BOOK GIVEAWAY...continues

5 more days to enter!!!

I will be giving away an autographed copy of "Back to the Homeplace" to a lucky winner!!

Contest rules:

1. Just leave a comment about one of you're favorite memories of the 80's or if you weren't around yet..what you like about that era!! This will get you 1 entry!

You can do the following for extra entries (leave link for blog and tweet postings so I can see that you did them, can be in same comment or different one)

a. Sign up to follow my blog and you get 1 extra entry.

b. Blog about the book giveaway for 1 extra entry.

c. Tweet about the book giveaway for 1 extra entry.

3. Please include your email address so I am able to contact you if you win.

4. You have from Saturday May 01st to Sunday May 09th at 10:00pm CT. to enter!!

5. Winner will be announced on Monday May 10th.

Come one everyone!!! Enter today!!!!

Back to the Homeplace - Review

Back to the Homeplace
by William Leverne Smith

Synopsis:

An extended family in crisis following the death of their matriarch must cope with this new environment. The year is 1987. The terms of an unusual will left by their parents bring four grown children, spouses, and other family members, back to the Missouri Ozarks farm where they grew up - the Homeplace. Varied backgrounds and viewpoints ignite controversy and expose long kept secrets as each family member searches for his or her share of the family legacy. While the older family members stake their claims to land and fortunes, the younger ones search for love and acceptance.

Review:

Back to the Homeplace is an amazing journey of family values and individuals trying to find their place in life. Author William Leverne Smith brings together his love of genealogy and family storytelling in his writing of a story that could touch any one's life these days. The description of the Missouri Ozarks, which has numerous kinds of terrain, landscape and buildings, is amazingly accurate. It makes you want to go on a road trip to view the beautiful area!

The plot is well written with a will dividing a family who all want the farm for different reasons. The twist of the will requires them to live on the land for 2 years. Could you up and leave your life and start over with your family somewhere else? You will see in the story how this effects all the families involved as each day goes by and decisions have to be made. From the older generations to the younger kids, all must deal with new issues that arise from the new environment that surrounds them.

This book evolves around the year 1987. At the beginning of each chapter, there are little news clips of what was going on at the time. Many social issues were active at that time and some are covered in the story like the AIDS epidemic.

I highly recommend this book to anyone that wants to read a great family oriented book that makes you think about the life you lead. The characters will make you think about people in your own family that may act or be like them (I sure found that out.) The writing is easy to read, but my only critique would be a more language use or slang of the area and a little less formal words used. This didn't distract me from the story, but living in the area myself, people speak a little more laid back. Take a trip in to the lives of the Bevins family and see what you may learn about those close to you.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars


Back to the Homeplace is just the first book in the series! I can't wait to read the next one. Head over to the series blogsite - The Homeplace Series Blog

You can buy the book NOW! In addition to Amazon.com you can get the book at the following location:
Vision to Action

Other genealogy books by William Leverne Smith can be bought at Lulu ... HERE

***********************************

(GIVEAWAY is Now OVER)

BOOK GIVEAWAY
OF
BACK TO THE HOMEPLACE

I will be giving away an autographed copy of "Back to the Homeplace" to a lucky winner!!

Contest rules:

1. Just leave a comment about one of you're favorite memories of the 80's or if you weren't around yet..what you like about that era!! This will get you 1 entry!

You can do the following for extra entries (leave link for blog and tweet postings so I can see that you did them, can be in same comment or different one)

a. Sign up to follow my blog and you get 1 extra entry.

b. Blog about the book giveaway for 1 extra entry.

c. Tweet about the book giveaway for 1 extra entry.

3. Please include your email address so I am able to contact you if you win.

4. You have from Saturday May 01st to Sunday May 09th at 10:00pm CT. to enter!!

5. Winner will be announced on Monday May 10th.


Thank you and good luck!!!

Interview and Book Giveaway at Linda Weaver Clarke's blog!

Head on over to Linda Weaver Clarke's blog to read her new interview with William Leverne Smith for his new book "Back to the Homeplace." Don't forget to enter the book giveaway for the book too while you're there!!


William Leverne Smith




"Back to the Homplace" Blog

Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie Montana

Synopsis:

Julia Cavanaugh has never left New York City. But in 1890, the young woman must head west to ensure that the orphans under her care are settled into good families. After her final stop in Montana, she plans to head straight back east. But upon arriving in the remote town of Lonesome Prairie, Julia learns to her horror that she is also supposed to be delivered—into the hands of an uncouth miner who carries a bill of purchase for his new “bride.” She turns to a respected circuit preacher to protect her from a forced marriage but with no return fare and few friends, Julia’s options are bleak. What is God’s plan for her in the middle of the vast Montana prairie?

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Review:

This book drew me in from the moment I saw the cover. A woman alone on a prairie with just a bag to her name. Next, I read what the story was about..again..it got me! I love the late 1800's and a storyline that has a strong woman character that has to fight to find her place in life. Julia is an amazing character who draws you in to the struggle women endured to overcome, being mail order brides and baby makers for those living in the 'wild west'. Goyer and Fleiss write from the heart about a woman that wants only to find herself and someone SHE chooses to be her husband. You can see the love and care that Pastor Issac and Julia have for one another, but each must follow their own path and rid themselves of past issues to be able to see clearly the love they have for one another.

The story flowed easily with many characters in the town being involved in the subplots surrounding Julia's decision to stay or go back east. Death, murder, love twists and the search for orphans to find a good home are only a few of the topics the book includes in this journey of a book.

If you are wanting a book to read that warms your heart and has you cheering for love to conquer all...this is the story for you!

Rating: 4 out of 5

More information:

Tricia Goyer
Ocieanna Fleiss




Part of:

"Cowboy Trouble" by Joanne Kennedy

Synopsis:

Fleeing her latest love life disaster, big city journalist Libby Brown's transition to rural living isn't going exactly as planned. Her childhood dream has always been to own a farm--but without the constant help of her charming, sexy cowboy neighbor, she'd never make it through her first Wyoming season.

Handsome rancher Luke Rawlins is impressed by this sassy, independent city girl. But he yearns to do more than help Libby out with her ranch...he's ready for love, and he wants to go the distance...

Then the two get embroiled in their tiny town's one and only crime story, and Libby discovers that their sizzling hot attraction is going to complicate her life in every way possible...

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Review:

"Cowboy Trouble" is the debut novel for Joanne Kennedy and I am sure there will be many more to come!

This contemporary romance with a twist of suspense held my attention from the first page to the last. I love the idea of the city girl meeting the country boy, but refusing to believe that 'more' can become of their friendship. Libby finds an unsolved crime to fill her time as the new journalist in the small town, but she soon realizes maybe things are better off left alone. This is where the story really starts to take off as the author builds on the 'mystic' of all those small town secrets that try and stay hidden.

The chemistry between Libby and Luke sizzles even when we laugh at the jokes/secrets they keep from one another. One of them being Libby trying to make Luke believe she has a 'ferocious' dog, when it's really a small, harmless dog. The mystery of Luke's parents and friendship with Mike slowly unfolds as the killer gets more brazen in trying to hide the truth of what happened to the missing girl.

Cowboy Trouble will bring smiles, laughs and mystery as you read through the book. So, put the chickens out, bring in the dogs and cuddle up to the fire and enjoy a romantic and suspenseful story that will have you wanting to read the next Joanne Kennedy novel!!

Rating: 4 out of 5


Received this review copy from Danielle at Sourcebooks.com

Elena, Woman of Courage by Linda Weaver Clarke

Elena, Woman of Courage: A Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho

Book Five

Synopsis:
When a woman settles into a strict conservative town as the newest doctor, a slew of problems begin to arise. The town is not ready for a female doctor, let alone one so strong and independent. Elena Yeates, the town's newest doctor, must struggle to prove herself in this western town, while keeping her composure, poise, and femininity. As she fights to prove herself, the town's most eligible bachelor finds it a challenge to see if he can win her heart.

With the the 1920's rise of woman's rights, this novel gives you great insight at the struggles women had to go through, all the while watching a young love blossom!!

Review:

This is book 5, the final book, of the Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho. I have loved this series from the start and hate to see it end, but I look forward to Linda's new series!

This story centers around John, middle child of Melinda and Gilbert Roberts, and Elena, the new town doctor. The chemistry between these two can be seen throughout the book by all the joking and kidding around they do with one another. Each are afraid to commit to the relationship until they each realize they can't go on without the other.

I enjoyed the time frame in history that the story is told, where women's rights were expanding all over the country. Elena's character was challenged by the men in town to prove herself as a 'real' doctor. Even Gilbert, the patriarch, had to overcome his opinion of being 'uncomfortable' in seeing a woman doctor. Other 'challenging' events occur in the story too (a thief that was stealing 'women's undergarments' and a lost child), where Elena must prove that women have some of the same abilities of men to conquer and accomplish goals. She uses her independence to win over John 'the life long bachelor' of the town. I like seeing the strong parental presence that Melinda and Gilbert have in John's life. They don't crowd or pressure him, but instead work with him to see both sides of any situation.

Linda Weaver Clarke is an amazing author who writes amazingly visual and descriptive books, without the story getting too wordy!! The story is full of daily chores, picnics, dances and dangerous events, which makes the book easy to read (and end way to fast for me!!)

"Elena, Woman of Courage" is an amazing journey of visual reading that will take you to the lands of Idaho and transport you in to the surroundings of the story. You feel you are living the life of the characters, who feel like your own family members, as you get to know each characters flaws and strengths. The love of a man and woman is only as strong as the bond and life they share together!

Read the first chapter HERE

Rating: 5 stars!


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Read my reviews of the previous 4 books in the series:

Melinda and the Wild West
Edith and the Mysterious Stranger
Jenny's Dream (Still my #1 favorite)
David and the Bear Lake Monster

THEN..go and buy each one and read them!!!!!! It really is a great series!!

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