Sheila's Books Read

Sheila's bookshelf: read

The Best Intentions
Scotland's Melody
The Secret Society of Salzburg
Secret of the Sonnets
20-40-60-Minute Dinners: Meals to Match the Time You Have
Through the Wilderness: My Journey of Redemption and Healing in the American Wild
Secret Santa Claus Club: A Tool to Help Parents Unwrap the Secret of Santa
Mr. Pudgins
Revenge Never Rests
The Best Mistake
Meriden Park
More Inspirational Stories for Young Women
The Great Tree: A Christmas Fable
To Capture His Heart
The Call of the Sea
Esperance
Livvy and the Enchanted Woodland
Come, Gentle Night
The Bad Boy Theory
Guide To Smart Wedding Planning: What You want to know and everything you haven't thought of yet.


Sheila's favorite books »

2024 Goodreads Reading Challenge

2024 Reading Challenge

2024 Reading Challenge
Sheila has read 4 books toward her goal of 100 books.
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Friday, May 31, 2013

Yesterday and The Locket by Amanda Tru-Blog Tour and $25 Giveaway

Yesterday Locket Tour
 
Amanda
 

Yesterday

Her yesterday was five years ago. What will her tomorrow bring? When HANNAH KRAEGER saves a family injured in a car accident, she has no idea she has changed events in the past. Waking the next morning, Hannah discovers her yesterday was really five years ago. Each trip Hannah takes through time changes the timeline and her own life. With help from DR. SETH MCALLISTER, Hannah must unravel the mystery of why she time travels and who she actually is before the strange ability costs her future, the man she loves, and even her life. YESTERDAY is a thrilling Christian Romantic Suspense filled with unexpected twists, mystery, and romance.  

Purchase at:Amazon

 

The Locket

Hannah suddenly finds that she has time travelled once again, but this time is different. After helping save a woman's life, Hannah discovers that she has completely altered the timeline and thrown her very existence into jeopardy. Facing life-threatening effects upon returning to her own time, Hannah is then given a death sentence: if she time travels again, she will die. Now, Hannah must solve the clues to her own identity and find a way to save her own life before she is once again sent spiraling through time. Will her mother's locket hold the key to both her past and her future? Has she just found the love of her life only to lose him? Could God have a plan for Hannah amidst the chaos?  

Purchase at: Amazon

 

My Review:

 I really loved this series, because at the heart of it is Time Travel. (You should know by now I LOVE Time Travel stories!) The twists in this story keep you guessing throughout both books. Right off the bat you can't help but love main character Hannah Kraeger. She is kind, courageous and adventurous. You keep reading these books so quickly because you can't wait to see what happens next to Hannah and her good-looking and loyal boyfriend, Dr. Seth McAllister. Where and when will she time travel to next? How will her traveling affect her future and those she loves? This book really makes you think a lot about how you could drastically change happenings if you time traveled. Hannah is so brave as she dares the fates. The suspense is high in both books. Just when you think everything has turned out perfectly for Hannah and Seth you come to the end of book two and the first chapter of book three...wham! I wasn't expecting at all what I read. I couldn't believe it! It's like a roller coaster ride that never ends.  There are two more books in the series that clearly show that more trouble awaits the couple and their families. 

If you are looking for a great series, a well-written flowing story, clean romance, chock-full of mystery/suspense and a whole lot of time travel...you need to read the Yesterday series: Yesterday and The Locket by Amanda Tru. I know I can't wait to read more. 

 

amanda tMeet:Author Amanda Tru

Although I loved my job as an elementary school teacher, I am now very blessed to be mommy to three adorable little boys and living my dream of being an author. I have a vivid imagination and have always been easily entertained by the stories in my head. Fortunately, I also love to paint those pictures with words. I like writing a wide variety of genres, and my current book list includes everything from a Christian time travel / romance series, to an action-packed suspense, to a romance involving a woman who likes to anonymously play matchmaker. Although I enjoy historical, Christian, paranormal, suspense, and everything in between, my books all have one thing in common--I love to surprise my readers with the unexpected. I currently have 7 books available for kindle, nook, and paperback. My family and I live in a small Idaho town where the number of cows outnumbers the number of people.  
 

Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 6/17/13 a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Friday, May 24, 2013

The Emerald Ring (Cleopatra's Legacy) by Dorine White-Review





Product Details

  • Title: The Emerald Ring (Cleopatra's Legacy)
  • Author: Dorine White
  • Paperback: 192 pages
  • Publisher: Cedar Fort, Inc. (May 14, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1462111335
  • FTC FYI: I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Description:

May 14, 2013 Cleopatra's Legacy
 
Sara Bogus's life turns upside down when she discovers an emerald ring that once belonged to Cleopatra. The fun of discovering the ring's unique abilities turns to fear when she finds out a dangerous cult bent on restoring Rome to power is after the ring. Forced to choose between keeping the ring and saving her friends, Sara learns the price of bravery in this electrifying read!
 
My Review:
The Emerald Ring is such a great Middle Grade book. This is a book I would love to read to my school kids and my kids at home. My daughter almost stole it from me when she read the title and saw it was about Cleopatra. She loves Egypt and anything having to do with Egypt. Even though she is a mid-teen, I know that she will love this story.It has mystery, adventure,intrigue and everything you love in a fantasy book. 

Main character Sara is a typical 12 year old girl, though she does happen to find an emerald ring of her Grandmothers that... just happened to belong to Cleopatra. Then thieves come looking for the emerald. I liked how she had her problems, but that didn't stop her from doing the things she should do and remaining a true friend. My favorite aspect of Sara were the dreams she had at night. She often would see things through the eyes of a cat. I am a cat owner and the author did a very good job of how a cat would see things. What a fun concept! 
 
This book is a winner on so many levels. As a teacher I love how it explores aspects of history. I know kids between the ages of 7-14 will really love this book. Even this old kid enjoyed reading The Emerald Ring. I can't wait to see what else comes next in the series as Cleopatra's other jewels are brought into the story.

You can purchase this book here...
Dorine White
Best Price $8.06
or Buy New $10.00
 

About the Author   

Dorine White graduated from Brigham Young University with a BA in Humanities and Art History. She began writing at a young age, proudly producing picture books for her parents. Now, her writing has turned into a passion for children's books. Currently she lives in the beautiful yet rainy Northwest, with her husband and six children.


Author on Facebook          Author's Website          Author on Twitter

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Book Blast and $50 GIveaway for Above Rubies by Jaclyn M. Hawkes

above rubies tour  
above rubies

Above Rubies

His chivalry was strangling her. He thought he was helping her—and in truth, he was. She was in desperate straits. But as honorable as he was, he was also breaking her heart. Her attraction was drowning him. When World Champion rodeo cowboy Rossen Rockland and his friends rescue a young runaway who has been abused by her foster father and take her home to his parents’ ranch, he expects her to turn out to be a pain in the neck. And sometimes she is. It doesn’t take him long to figure out that she has way more than her allotment of troubles—and far more than her share of gifts. Lovely, talented, and ravingly brilliant, Kit Star is too young, unbelievably humble, and oh, so loveable. Knowing that she needs his protection and time to grow into her potential, Rossen also figures out that what she really is, is a pain in the heart. Watch for more of the Rockland Ranch Series!  

Praise for Above Rubies:

I absolutely could not put this book down. It had me laughing, crying, angry and pretty much every other emotion. I can not wait for the next one in the series to come out. Keep them coming!!! ~Addicted to Books This is the second book in the Rockland Ranch Romance Series. It can be read as a stand alone or copies of Peace River can be supplied if you would also like to review it.  

peace riverPeace River (Book 1)

The police didn't understand the danger, but she did. Her father had always been abusive, but now, with a ten million dollar Thoroughbred farm on the line, and a powerful bookie leaning on him, her father had become out of control. But how do you get away and take a world famous stallion with you? Carrie was getting desperate when a handsome and honorable but thoroughly cynical rodeo cowboy from Wyoming happened to show up with a horse trailer. He didn't ride a white horse, but he was definitely a knight in shining armor. He'll protect her from the mob, but can she survive falling in love with a bull rider?  

Praise for Peace River

"Give me a clean romance, humor and a good looking cowboy and I'm a happy girl. LDS fiction isn't always my favorite but I really enjoyed the characters and adventure in this book." ~Carol - Goodreads "There was plenty of action, adventure and danger to keep me guessing just how everything was going to turn out. I didn't want to put it down until I finished! Jaclyn Hawkes is one of my favorite LDS romance authors. You really can't go wrong with any of her books that you pick up!" ~Cathy -Goodreads
 

jaclynAuthor Jaclyn M. Hawkes

Jaclyn M. Hawkes grew up in Utah with 6 sisters, 4 brothers and any number of pets. (It was never boring!) She got a bachelor’s degree, had a career and traveled extensively before settling down to her life’s work of being the mother of four magnificent and sometimes challenging children. She loves shellfish, the out of doors, the youth and hearing her children laugh. She and her fine husband, their family, and their sometimes very large pets, now live in a mountain valley in northern Utah, where it smells like heaven and kids still move sprinkler pipe.
  Book Blast Giveaway $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
 Ends 6/11/13   a Rafflecopter giveaway Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. Prize value $50 US.

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Book Blast and$50 Giveaway for Yours Affectionately, Jane Austen by Sally Smith O'Rourke

Yours Affectionately, Jane Austen
Was Mr. Darcy real? Is time travel really possible? For pragmatic Manhattan artist Eliza Knight the answer to both questions is absolutely, Yes! And Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley Farms, Virginia is the reason why!
His tale of love and romance in Regency England leaves Eliza in no doubt that Fitz Darcy is the embodiment of Jane Austen’s legendary hero. And she’s falling in love with him. But can the man who loved the inimitable Jane Austen ever love average, ordinary Eliza Knight?
Eliza’s doubts grow, perhaps out of proportion, when things start to happen in the quiet hamlet of Chawton, England; events that could change everything. Will the beloved author become the wedge that divides Fitz and Eliza or the tie that binds them?
 
Praise for Yours Affectionately, Jane Austen
O’Rourke creates a world that defies cynicism and demands suspension of disbelief – even in this age of doubt and hyper-realism. Sheer escapism at its best. Clever, charming and affectionate. ~Jocelyn Bury …the reader must tenaciously read on rather than put the book down to satisfy their hunger for the story to resolve, which it does in characteristically Jane Austen fashion. ~Erin Murdock
In Yours Affectionately, Jane Austen, author Sally Smith O’Rourke creates a compelling story that investigates what and who might have inspired Jane Austen. While the story line is certainly far-fetched, it is a truly unique idea, one that captivated this reader until the very last page. ~Meg Massey
 
Purchase
 
 
Author Sally Smith O'Rourke
Sally Smith O’Rourke is a surgical scrub nurse at the City of Hope national cancer research hospital in Duarte, California and resides in the near-by Victorian village of Monrovia. With her late husband, author Michael O’Rourke (aka F.M. O’Rourke) Smith O’Rourke owned and operated a medical advertising company where she used her diverse talents to produce and co-write teaching films and videos. Working not only with major medical and surgical manufacturing companies but also network television. These endeavors ultimately led to a collaboration on two feature films (direct to video) and three published novels. The wife and husband writing team of Sally Smith and Michael O’Rourke, being long-time fans of Jane Austen, wrote The Man Who Loved Jane Austen released by Kensington Books in 2006. Kensington followed that very successful effort with The Maidenstone Lighthouse in 2007 and Christmas at Sea Pines Cottage in 2009, both also collaborative projects by Smith and O’Rourke. Published after her partner and spouse’s untimely death in 2001, the publisher chose not to use the names Michael O’Rourke and Sally Smith (as the manuscripts were presented), releasing all three books under Sally Smith O’Rourke. Yours Affectionately, Jane Austen is Sally Smith O’Rourke’s first solo novel.
Yours Affectionately tour
Book Blast Giveaway $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 6/6/13 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Winners of the movie tickets to see Ephraim's Rescue

The two lucky winners of a pair of tickets to see the new movie Ephraim's Rescue are...
Kathee and Mary!! Thanks so much for entering! I have forwarded your names and email addresses to Deseret Book and they should be contacting you ASAP. Enjoy the movie!

Friday, May 17, 2013

Blog Tour Review-Why I Don't Lose Weight by Dr. Wilfred Aguila




















Book Description

2012

A unique perspective to the battle of the bulge. Dr. Aguila gets to the heart of the struggle with weight loss, then gives practical solutions for overcoming that struggle and losing weight for good. Wonderfully clear and simple steps to permanent better health from a physician who has lived it.


My Review:
 I have struggled with my weight all of my life. I have read countless book on losing weight. This is the first book that has truly touched something in me. It didn't focus on the "hows" to lose weight, but on understanding obesity and discovering the reasons we fail. 

I also really liked how this book focused on making a lifestyle change. Dr. Aguila says right at the beginning, "Weight loss must coincide with a firm commitment to a healthier lifestyle for you and your family." 

Another fabulous reminder for me that Dr. Aguila teaches in his book is this, "You can't be all things to all people.You have to take care of yourself first in order to be there for others. 'Sacrificing" yourself for your family is admirable, but what is going to happen to them when they don't have you?" I wrote down..."WOW! Great Reminder!!" on the side of the page when I read this. 

Here are the chapter titles of the book. I wanted to include this in my review so you could truly see how different and wonderful this book is!
  1. Knowing Why You Fail
  2. The Cycle of Obesity
  3. Rotations of the Cycle
  4. Controlling Anxiety
  5. Understanding Guilt
  6. Failing to Break the Cycle
  7. The Perfectionist Pattern
  8. Psychological Phases of Obesity
  9. Don't Choose a Diet, Choose a Transition
  10. Here's To Your Health
  11. Your Goal Is The Secret to Success
  12. Unhealthy Habits and Vices
  13. The Real You
  14. Conquer the Cycle
  15. Pulling Out The Root Cause
I'm so excited to use this book in helping me get and stay healthy, physically and mentally. Thank you so much Dr. Aguila!! I highly endorse this book for those wanting to get to the "real" reason why being healthy and conquering the obesity cycle has been evading them.  
 
Other Reviews

"Why I Don't Lose Weight! is a refreshing and original look at the root causes that keep you trapped in an emotional eating cycle. I recommend this book to anyone who is struggling with his or her weight." - John Gray, PhD, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus

"Dr. Aguila's book Why I Don't Lose Weight offers a heart-felt, compassionate approach to understanding weight loss. This is not a diet book or a book of quick fixes. Instead it shows you practical ways to change from the inside out." -- Marci Shimoff, #1 NY Times bestselling author of Love for No Reason and Happy for No Reason

"Dr. A does a fantastic job of explaining how the Cycle of Obesity keeps you trapped and, more importantly, he helps you get out of it!" -Dr. Mike Dow, Author of Diet Rehab And Co-Host of TLC's Freaky Eaters, CoHost of VH1's Couple's Therapy

"Why I Don't Lose Weight is spot on! In it, Dr. A uncovers the real reasons why obesity seems so hard to cure. This book treats the cause, not the symptoms, empowering readers to lose weight, and more important, to keep it off for good!" - Max Bolka, Co-Author: Success is a State of Mind; Co-Star: The Keeper of the Keys.
 Buy the book HERE:
M.D. Wilfred Aguil...
Best Price $5.17
or Buy New
Buy from Amazon.com
 More About the Author

Biography

Wilfred Aguila, M.D. is a native of Florida and has served communities in Florida since he graduated from the University Of Miami School Of Medicine in 1991.

In Tampa, Dr. Aguila completed his surgical residency at the University of South Florida in 1996 and was Chief Resident in Surgery from 1995 to 1996. Dr. Aguila has been in surgical practice for sixteen years and specializes in Bariatric surgery. He founded Surgical Bariatric Centers, LLC which has grown from one office in Tampa to several offices across Central Florida.

Struggling for almost a decade with his own weight problem, Dr. Aguila gained a personal understanding about the process of losing weight. He remembers his battle with binge eating and the lessons he learned that allowed him to finally break the cycle of overeating. He shares with his patients these lessons so that they may break their own Cycles.

Dr. Aguila is an author,nationally syndicated radio show host, and highly sought after national obesity expert. He has appeared on numerous morning TV shows and a regular expert segment on Telemundo. Dr. Aguila is the host of the popular Dr. A Radio show. He is also a regular contributor to the Huffington Post as well as other publications.

Through his motivational speaking engagements, Dr. A touches the lives of those suffering with serious weight problems and empowers them with the knowledge that they need to win their struggle.

Dr. Aguila is currently listed in Guide to America's Top Surgeons and Top Doctors. Dr. A is a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery; he is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.


Thursday, May 16, 2013

Ephraim's Rescue (A T.C. Christensen Film) -- Premiere Giveaway for Free Movie Tickets







Synopsis
From T.C. Christensen, director of the sensational pioneer film, 17 Miracles, comes the heroic true story of a simple man who was called to do the work of angels. Ephraim’s Rescue relates the story of Ephraim Hanks: a rescuer of the Martin Handcart company.
 

Follow Ephraim as his adventures lead him to join the LDS Church and ultimately to one of the most heroic rescues in American history. With a unique desire to help and strengthen others, Ephraim learns that each choice we make can prepare us for what lies ahead. He discovers, through it all, that decisions determine destiny.

 

Filmmakers
 

T.C. Christensen
Producer/ Writer/ Director
T.C. Christensen is one of the brilliant minds behind the camera when it comes to these family favorites:
17 Miracles (Excel Entertainment); Emma Smith: My Story (Morning Dew); Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration (LDS Church); Testaments (LDS Church); The Work & the Glory (Manchester Pictures); Forever Strong (Go Films); Sea Monsters (National Geographic); Roving Mars (Disney); The Buttercreme Gang(Family Films); Rigoletto (Family Films); The Mouths of Babes (VTA); Finding Faith in Christ (LDS Church); Treasure in Heaven: The John Tanner Story (VTA); Only a Stonecutter (VTA).
T.C. has won over 270 national and international awards for his work in directing and photography. In 2010 he was invited to join the American Society of Cinematographers.
 

Ron Tanner
Producer
Ron Tanner has been managing Fort Union LLC and Titan Golden Eagle LLC, private investment companies in Salt Lake City, since October of 2002. Recent investments include film co-production, with T.C. Christensen, of 17 Miracles, Treasure in Heaven, and Only a Stonecutter. Prior, Ron was managing director and senior securities analyst for Legg Mason (Baltimore based securities brokerage, asset management, and capital markets firm) for nine years. Before that, he was an analyst at Goldman Sachs in New York City, and prior to that, an analyst for Duff & Phelps in Chicago. Mr. Tanner also worked for Southern California Edison for 10 years in investor relations and financial planning.
Ron has also been a presenter at various utility industry and investment conferences, and a guest lecturer in finance at universities in California, Maryland, Missouri, Utah, and Wisconsin. He participated in numerous television, radio, and newspaper discussions on utility investments. Ron is married and has four children and four grandchildren, and resides in Cottonwood Heights, Utah




 Starring:

 Darin Southam as Ephraim Hanks
Darin's passion for acting started with a play in his 7th grade drama class and has evolved into a career, with roles that span from indie films, such as Last Man(s) On Earth, to Disney's Halloweentown High, Discovery Channel's I Shouldn't Be Alive, and Fox's 127 Hours. A former student of Playhouse West in North Hollywood (Jeff Goldblum, James Franco, Michelle Pfieffer, etc.)
Darin enjoys the method of digging deep into the characters he portrays. At heart, Darin is a family man with a wife and 3 young children; he hopes his performance as Ephraim Hanks in T.C.'s Ephraim's Rescue will elevate his opportunity to pursue what he truly loves to do - act in film. More info about Darin can be found at darinsoutham.com
 

James Gaisford as Thomas Dobson
James loves his "job"! He is so grateful for the blessing to be able to pursue acting and to have met so many great friends and mentors along the way. Some of his credits include, The letter writer, Disney channel’s Den Brother, Cloud 9, Twelve dogs of Christmas part 2, and Shadow of Cabal.
Originally trained theatrically he Starred as Lt. Joseph Cable in South Pacific among other stage productions. He has also been a stage combat director for a production of Peter pan. He is best known for his collaborations with MAINSTAY PRODUCTIONS a film group that produces short films on YouTube such as, Second Quarter Quell, Finnick and Annie, and The Fault in Our Stars. James also enjoys singing. He has been inspired by Thomas Dobson's story and hopes you will be too.
 

Katherine Nelson as Alice Dobson
From commercials to stage to screen, Katherine Nelson is best known as her role of Emma in both Emma Smith, My Story and Joseph Smith, Prophet of the Restoration. Katherine has once again taken a strong role in T.C. Christensen's most recent film, Ephraim's Rescue.
Among Katherine's wide range of talents runs her life-long passion for music- singing/songwriting and currently performing her latest release and Nashville recorded cd, Born Brave. She continues to find time to enjoy her many other passions which include dancing, art, and above all being a mother to her four children and wife to her husband.


 Watch the Movie Trailer


 I'm thrilled to tell you that I have FOUR premiere tickets to give away, TWO to each winner.  Contest ends tomorrow, Friday May 17th, at midnight.  The winners will choose which screening they would like to attend.  Please leave a comment  below with your email, telling me why you would like to attend. Please leave an email address or new winners will be selected.

Special Screening Choices

Monday, May 20th -- Gateway Salt Lake City 11:00 am
Thursday, May 23rd -- Red Carpet Premiere in Centerville 7:00 pm

Saturday, May 25th -- St. George, Pineview Stadium 3:00 pm

Tuesday, May 28th -- Ogden, The Junction 6:30 pm

Wednesday, May 29th -- Logan, University Stadium 6:30 pm

Wednesday, May 29th -- Orem, Cinemark 6:30 pm



Links for Ephraim’s Rescue Content:

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Blog Tour Review and GIveaway of Trail of Bones by Chris Salisbury

trail of bones
Book Description:Trail of Bones
Ready for a new adventure? Are you a fan of fantasy, young adult, science fiction and action stories?
“No mercy, No rules - Welcome to the Trail of Bones!”
Run with Purpose – battle cry of the Shade Wolves
Magnus, the runt of a litter of Shade Wolves, wants nothing more than to be a loyal, strong member of the pack. But when an ancient enemy threatens his friends and family, he faces a choice that could tear him from all he's known and loved. Born in captivity, the giant panther Kelor knows nothing but suffering and loss. He struggles to find his place in this world of terror, and he battles to protect his family without succumbing to the darkness lurking inside him. Falling captive to the evil Warden, the two are forced to fight in the battle of the beasts known as 'The Trail of Bones'. How will Kelor and Magnus learn to work together? How will they escape a fate of despair and death? How will their choices affect their comrades? Their enemies? And the forgotten magic that could doom all life of their world? Let the adventures begin!
A fun, exciting, clean read for teens, young adults, adults and readers of all ages. Pick up your copy of this fantasy adventure today!
Are you a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Robert Jordan, Orson Scott Card, Jim Butcher and other fantasy and science fiction authors? You’ll feel right at home with Trail of Bones. This fantasy story offers a strong moral message, suspense, action, and mystery, in a world full of magic, unlikely heroes, and devious villains.

Excerpt from Trail of Bones

“You’ve seen a Shade Wolf? While the sun was overhead?” Chief Draghone asked. The boy nodded. “Then you were too close to their dens. I thought we talked about this Adolphus? You could endanger the entire village with your foolish desires.”
            “But you said the Shade Wolves are our friends. That they protect Thornmount and the forest just as we do,” the boy said.
            “True, but neither man nor beast likes it when an intruder comes to his home uninvited. And with a new litter coming, you’re lucky they didn’t tear you apart and feed you to the cubs for their first meal.”
            Surprisingly the boy did not back down. Mildly irritated, the chief still admired his son’s conviction and passion. “I did no harm, father, I swear it. He even spoke to me. He warned me to go away,” Adolphus said with the excitement only a boy could display.
            “And what did this Shade Wolf say?”
            “He said run with purpose.”
            “And did you?” the father asked.
            “Of course. I’ve never run so fast. When I made it back to the village, the wolf was gone,” Adolphus said excitedly.
            Thayne Draghone bellowed with laughter, and put his massive arm around his son. They all fear what they do not understand, he thought. That is why you are chief.
            “You still have much to learn, young one. Listen closely, son, for this is truth,” he said as he knelt next to his boy so they could see eye to eye. “Run with purpose is not a warning, it is an ancient wolf saying.”
            The boy was perplexed; this was not at all what he thought happened during his brief encounter with the wolf. “I don’t understand. What does that mean?”
            “Run with purpose. It means do not waste energy, life, seasons. When you hunt, hunt until your prey is in your jaws. If you fight, fight with all your strength until you win your enemy’s throat. If you love, love until your heart stops beating.  And if you must run, go swiftly until you run with your pack once more. This is the way of the wolf. This is the way of the warrior. And I pray to the gods it will be your way too,” the chief explained.
            Adolphus looked back in the direction of the wolves with a new understanding and appreciation. His fear vanished, replaced with admiration and a sense of wonder. I want to see a Shade Wolf again. I’ll be brave, he thought.
            “Come boy, the night grows darker still. Your mother will whip your hide… and mine if we don’t return to the cooking fires soon,” said Thayne.
            “Can’t we stay a while longer? I want to listen. I wonder what they’re saying now, Father,” said the boy.
            “When the sun rises I’ll travel to their den and pay my respects. I will offer gifts of meat and dugan entrails in celebration of new life. I was hoping my son could accompany me, but I fear if he doesn’t find his bed soon, he’ll be too weary,” said the chief.
He barely finished his sentence before the boy scrambled down the watchtower and scurried toward home. The father chuckled as he watched his son dash away. Run with purpose, young one. Now you’re getting it, he thought.

My Review: 

 Reading Trail of Bones was like watching a full length movie unfold in your mind. There were a lot of characters to first establish and be introduced to at the beginning. Once that was done, the action in this book never stopped. Author Chris Salisbury does a fantastic job of creating his world and characters. I was very impressed! His writing could be compared to other great fantasy writers like Brandon Sanderson and Orson Scott Card. That is just how well this fantasy is written. Another plus about Trail of Bones, I picked up this 300 page book and almost read it all in one night! I literally could not put it down! As I cooked dinner, I had my Kindle sitting right there to read. As I helped my kids with their homework, I kept sneaking some reading in. The ultimate...I stayed up late to finish the book even though I had to get up and work the next morning!! 

There will be so many twist and turns in this book it will shock you. Pick up this book and I dare you to put it down. Trail of Bones hooks you from the first page and never allows you to go until the very end. I highly recommend this book to fantasy/science fiction/action lovers of all ages.

Amazon

Book Trailer
Editorial Reviews Salisbury is a rising star in genre fiction. This book makes a unique and exciting contribution in the fantasy realm. The first of great things to come. --Jake Black, "The Authorized Ender Companion" "Smallville" "Ender's Game: Recruiting Valentine" Amazon Reviews Conclusion: A fantasy adventure that features lots of action and intrigue that is geared to a YA audience. There are moments in this tale that are especially well done... story telling at a level that I'd be interested to see what this author would do with an adult orientated fantasy work. As a dedicated YA work... 5 Stars. ~ Ray Nicholson The beginning of a great adventure! I thoroughly enjoyed reading the first book of the Trail of Bones series. It is an unpredictable adventure, with heartwrenching acts of love and friendship. The story ended before I was prepared to put my Kindle down, and now I will wait anxiously for the second book to be published. In the meantime, I think I'll read it again with my eleven-year-old son; I'm sure he'll love it as much as I do. Give it a read! ~ HRL Enthralling story line that really pulls you in …The characters were some that I will not easily forget because he explains their background in a way that makes the reader really connect and believe they are real. He creates a world that I long to see. I really grew to both love and hate different characters. I think that is a sign of a really great author when they can make us feel so much emotion towards a character. ~ Janason
About Chris Salisbury
Chris Salisbury has been writing fantasy, science fiction, suspense, and action thrillers for years in independent films. Now he’s expanded his love of good movies, such as Gladiator, Counte of Monte Cristo, Saving Private Ryan, Braveheart, Star Trek, to the world of books. Trail of Bones is the first book in a planned four part fantasy, young adult series targeted at readers of all ages.
The father of four enjoys a wide range of interests from scuba diving to softball, coaching basketball to playing Battlefield 3 on his Xbox 360 or NCAA Football with his sons. He is also a big advocate for literacy and reading for young boys. There seem to be few titles that appeal to young boys and young men to hold their attention, trigger their imaginations and create a love of reading. Chris is out to change that.
In addition to the Trail of Bones series, he also has a number of other titles in development including historical fiction, action, suspense thrillers, and several science fiction properties. There’s a lot more on the horizon, so enjoy Trail of Bones but be sure to look for more captivating titles from Chris Salisbury in the near future.
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Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Tides Across the Sea (The Explorers) by Lu Ann Brobst Staheli-Review

Product Details

  • Title: Tides Across the Sea (The Explorers)
  • Author: Lu Ann Brobst Staheli
  • File Size: 359 KB
  • Print Length: 160 pages
  • Publisher: Back Yard Press (March 28, 2013)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B00C37B8KE
  • FTC FYI: I received a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.  








Book Description:
Set against the background of the exploration of the Aztec civilization, Tides Across the Sea, opens in the year 1519, where the passion for adventure and the lust for gold reign in the hearts of both young and old. Fifteen-year-old Felipe is no exception, though his yearning for adventure is tempered by his love for the beautiful Manuela. She wants to marry Felipe, but she must first rid herself of the betrothal bands her papa has accepted on her behalf to the local bully, who threatens the life of the one she loves. When Felipe ends up on Cortés’ ship bound for the New World, the young couple is pulled apart.

Felipe and Manuela each must find a way to overcome the odds stacked against them if they want to someday reunite. But the New World is filled with danger, and Felipe may not escape the human sacrifices being made to the Great White God, unless the young slave girl, Tia, who also yearns for home, can help him escape and return to Manuela.

Tides Across the Sea, a young adult novel from The Explorers series, is historical fiction with a touch of romance in the style of Carolyn Meyer (Loving Will Shakespeare) and Ann Rinaldi (The Coffin Quilt). Tides Across the Sea will take readers on a journey to the New World with Cortés and into the palace of Moctezuma (Montezuma) that will satisfy their own lust for adventure.  


Excerpt:
 Manuela Perez couldn’t stop the perspiration pouring across her brow. The azure sky was crisp and clear above the piazza where the sun radiated from the cobblestones, making the day seem hotter. But it was more than the heat making her feel drained. The words coming from the mouth of the boy she hoped to one day marry brought her great worry.

“A New World. Just saying the words brings a fire to my belly,” Felipe Marco said, reading from one of the many notices posted in the village. Felipe’s fists rested on his hips and he pulled his shoulders back, his lean torso enhanced by the muscles bulging from the sleeve above his almond-colored arms. “To travel to a new continent across the Caribbean. This—this would prove to your father that I am a man. Old enough to own a bull and a piece of land, old enough to travel beyond the southern shores of Santiago de Cuba, and to marry his daughter.”


“Oh, Felipe,” Manuela said, sighing. Her tiny frame was almost hidden beneath the orange, yellow, and green ruffles that decorated her skirt and blouse. “What if you never return from this voyage with Cortés? Who would I marry?” She placed her head against the woven fabric of his tunic and touched her creamy palm against his dark curls. The noise of the market swirled around them, but she paid no attention.


A smile played at Felipe’s lips as he embraced her. “A child as lovely as you need not worry about marriage.”



My Review:
 I haven't read a lot of stories about this particular time and events in history. I love history and learned many things I hadn't known before. Cortés and King Montezuma were both very evil men. This book does go into some of the depraved acts that were done to people; especially when Montezuma sacrificed people to the Gods. My stomach actually turned while reading about this(Just a warning for those who have weak stomachs like me!) 

Tides Across the Sea has two stories going on, one with Manuela back in the home land waiting for her love Felipe. The other story is about Felipe who was kidnapped aboard Cortés ship and taken away from his home and Manuela. There is a lot of action as Cortés's men battle against the Aztec people. Through the enjoyable storytelling of Lu Ann Staheli, readers are taken to the new world. The harshness and reality of the life of an explorer is told vividly. Manuela's life back home is sad, but you truly cheer for her as she waits patiently for Felipe's return. 

This story is for older teens and adults. History buffs will love reading this story about the adventures and tragedies of the Cortés expedition and the Aztec people.

You can purchase Tides Across the Sea
here:
Lu Ann Brobst Stah...

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About the Author:

Lu Ann Brobst Staheli got her start as a celebrity paparazzi-stalker-chick, which led to her award-winning career as a ghostwriter for celebrity memoirs. A masochist at heart, she has taught junior high school English for 33 years, moved to the school library for year 34, and once spent two weeks summer vacation backpacking through Europe with 15 of her students. She has won three Best of State Medals—two for writing and one for teaching—but refuses to wear them all at the same time because she’d hate to be known as a show-off. Her published works include A Note With Taking, an award-winning MG novel which is currently a Whitney Award nominee; When Hearts Conjoin, the story of the conjoined Herrin twins; Psychic Madman about mentalist Jim Karol; One Day at a Time: Teaching Secondary Language Arts; and Books, Books, and More Books: A Parent and Teacher's Guide to Adolescent Literature.

You can contact Lu Ann HERE at her blog.

Friday, May 10, 2013

Leona and Me, Helen Marie (A Small Town U.S.A. Novel) by Lu Ann Brobst Staheli-Review

Product Details

  • Title: Leona & Me, Helen Marie (A Small Town U.S.A. Novel)
  • Author:Lu Ann Brobst Staheli
  • File Size: 288 KB
  • Print Length: 102 pages
  • Publisher: Back Yard Press (January 30, 2013)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B00B8DTP9K
  • FTC FYI:  I received a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review. 







Book Description:
Seven-year-old Helen Marie Heffner has a knack for getting into trouble, followed close behind by her older sister, Leona Mae. Whether it’s walking the barn beams like a tightrope, fooling the neighbor boys into thinking they’re being chased by a fiery jack-o-lantern, or making a mess rather than transferring a pattern for Mama’s Christmas surprise, Helen comes out the winner every time.

But life is not always fun and games in 1922 for this southern Indiana family. In the wake of the Depression of the previous two years, the girls and their mama are often left alone in Hancock’s Chapel while their papa travels to find work to keep the family finances alive. Lately, Mama’s been showing signs of not feeling well, and Helen is stuck at home, missing the entire school year while she recuperates from the rheumatic fever that struck her the year before. Mama fears the worst is about to happen. Everything from the barn owl, to the chicken thief, the stranger who passed by one evening to a poor neighbor-boy who falls into the ravine, all point to signs of trouble to come. And sure enough, it does.

Leona and Me, Helen Marie, a middle grade novel from A Small Town U.S.A. series, is hometown historical fiction in the style of Richard Peck (A Long Way from Chicago, The Teacher’s Funeral, Here Lies the Librarian) and Kate DiCamillo (Because of Winn-Dixie), with a touch of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House on the Prairie thrown in for good measure.

Excerpt:
“Watch me, Leona. I’m Miss Tarantula, mysterious tight rope walker of Madagascar!” I lifted my arms for balance and started across the wooden beam in the barn loft, one foot in front of the other, imitating the lady we’d seen at the circus in New Albany. After reaching the wall, I made a little curtsey, trying to pull my overalls out like they were the net skirt the trapeze artist had worn.

“Magnificent, Helen,” Leona said, mimicking a ring master. She held onto a joist about thirty feet away from where I’d ended my trip across the barn.

“With my eyes closed this time,” I said.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” she said. Leona was nine, two years older than me, and liked to pretend she was in charge.


“Watch me. Watch me,” I said, closing my eyes and turning around on the beam toward the way I thought I’d come. My bare toes gripped the rough edges of the wood.


“Helen Marie Heffner, you stop right now.” Her voice sounded just like Mama’s when I’m gonna get in trouble, but I took a step. Then another. On the third one, there wasn’t a beam under my foot. My eyes flew open and my legs peddled the air, like a character in the comic papers, trying to find a way to stop falling.


“Le—o—naaa!” I screeched.

My Review:
Leona and Me, Helen Marie (A Small Town U.S.A. Novel) was such a fun book to read. I was smiling through much of it. The stories in this book reminded me so much of the stories my own parents have shared with me through the years. It is so obvious the difference between life back then and life now. There was something special about life in the early 1900's. Life was so much simpler in many ways and much harder in others.

Lu Ann Staheli beautifully retells the stories of her mother and her aunt as they grew up in the South in the 1920's. There is a lot of humor as Helen, age seven, is living life with her rambunctious older sister. There were many adventures to be found playing outside. Kids today are truly missing out on the fun that most of us over the age of 40 had.

This book will be enjoyed by those that love a delightful book about siblings, family, and lots of love. There are some sad moments that had me crying, but there were many more that had me LOL! I highly recommend this book to all readers, young and old! I will be reading it again with my own children.

Tomorrow I will be reviewing another book written by Lu Ann called Tides Across the Seas (The Explorers).

About the Author:

Lu Ann Brobst Staheli got her start as a celebrity paparazzi-stalker-chick, which led to her award-winning career as a ghostwriter for celebrity memoirs. A masochist at heart, she has taught junior high school English for 33 years, moved to the school library for year 34, and once spent two weeks summer vacation backpacking through Europe with 15 of her students. She has won three Best of State Medals—two for writing and one for teaching—but refuses to wear them all at the same time because she’d hate to be known as a show-off. Her published works include A Note With Taking, an award-winning MG novel which is currently a Whitney Award nominee; When Hearts Conjoin, the story of the conjoined Herrin twins; Psychic Madman about mentalist Jim Karol; One Day at a Time: Teaching Secondary Language Arts; and Books, Books, and More Books: A Parent and Teacher's Guide to Adolescent Literature.

 

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Esther the Queen A Novel by H.B. Moore-Review

Product Details
  • Title: Esther the Queen a novel
  • Author: H.B. Moore
  • Paperback: 288 pages
  • Publisher: Covenant Communications Inc.; 1st edition (April 1, 2013)
  • Genre: Religious Historical Fiction
  • ISBN-10: 1621084175
  • ISBN-13: 978-1621084174
  • FTC FYI: I received a review copy in exchange for
  • an honest review.











Book Description

She is a beautiful young Jewess, content in her life of anonymity. He is the most powerful king in the world. When chance brings the two together, the course of history is forever altered. The glittering court of the Persian Empire serves as the backdrop for one of the most poignant tales of courage in the Bible, brought vividly to life in the pages of bestselling author H.B. Moore s sweeping saga. And it begins on a dusty road in the Jewish Quarter. An unexpected meeting between Esther and King Xerxes results in an immediate and unmistakable connection. When Esther is summoned to enter harem the first step toward becoming his wife Esther is torn between her desire to be with Xerxes and the knowledge that they will forever be divided by the secret of her Jewish heritage. Encouraged by her family to do what she must to help her people, she deftly navigates her new position in the palace, quickly becoming beloved by all including Xerxes. But when a treacherous plan threatens to engulf the kingdom in violence, Esther must choose between love and duty. Is she prepared to sacrifice all that she holds dear in order to save her people from certain annihilation?

My Review 
I have been looking forward to reading Esther the Queen ever since I knew author H.B. (Heather) Moore would be writing the fictional account of Esther from the Bible. Esther has always been one of my favorite stories from the Bible. I knew that the retelling of her story would be in good hands. I was not disappointed at all. Heather is famous for writing stories of the people from the Book of Mormon like Abinadi, Ammon and the Daughters of Jared and many more.She has also received awards for these novels. Her experience as a writer shows in the magnificent story she has told about Esther. 

I so loved the way that Heather brought Esther to life. I always knew how brave Queen Esther had been in order to save her people. The story leading up to that pivotal point in her life has always been a guessing game. I enjoyed Heather's take on the type of person that Esther was. She is portrayed as being kind, unselfish, and very accepting of all people. As a reader you can't help but love Esther. King Xerxes (Asahuerus) was also written to my liking. I feel he was a good man in the long run, despite being a Persian King with concubines and a harem. I could see how Esther fell in love with him so quickly. Bad guy Haman deserves the scorn he has received. He truly was a wicked man to call for the destruction of a group of people. Esther's cousin Mordachai was also written very well. This humble man listened to God and followed promptings from the spirit. 

Esther the Queen will enchant you from the first pages. You will be drawn into the splendor of the royal court, and the humble circumstances that the Jewish people lived in. This well researched book will open your eyes to the great sacrifice that Esther made for her Jewish people. I hope that Heather is planning on writing about more heroes from the Bible. Any book written by this author, will for sure make a very satisfying read.

  Esther the Queen is available on Amazon, Kindle, and at BYU Bookstore.

About the Author:

Heather B. Moore is the award-winning author of several historical novels which are set in Ancient Arabia and Mesoamerica. She is not old and doesn’t remember the time period, so Google has become a great friend. Although she has spent several years living in the Middle East, she prefers to forget the smells. Heather writes her historical thrillers under the pen name H.B. Moore so that men will buy her books. She is also the author of two non-fiction books, and several women’s novels including the co-authored series The Newport Ladies Book Club, the anthology series A Timeless Romance Anthology, and the historical romantic suspense novel Heart of the Ocean. These are all written under her real name so that women will buy her books.
Heather graduated from Brigham Young University with a major in Fashion Merchandising and minor in Business Management–which has absolutely nothing to do with writing novels. But at least she can balance a mean checkbook and color-coordinate her kids’ school clothes.

Visit Heather’s website here: www.hbmoore.com
If you’re an aspiring writer, she also manages the editing company: www.precisioneditinggroup.com

Sunday, May 5, 2013

New Release: The Buttersmith's Gold (A Novella) by Adam Glendon Sidwell

I'm so excited to tell you about the new book in the Evertaster series!!

Book Description:
BATTLES. BLUEBERRIES. BOVINES.
TORBJORN AND STORFJELL’S HISTORY UNFOLDS IN AN EPIC EVERTASTER NOVELLA.
Everyone knows the most coveted treasure of the Viking Age was blueberry muffins. Blueberry muffins so succulent that if you sniffed just a whiff, you’d want a whole bite. If you bit a bite, you’d want a batch; if you snatched a batch, you’d stop at nothing short of going to war just to claim them all.

Young Torbjorn Trofastsonn comes from the clan that makes them. He’s a Viking through and through – he’s thirteen winters old, larger than most respectable rocks, and most of all, a Buttersmith. That’s what he thinks anyway, until a charismatic merchant makes Torbjorn question his place among the muffin-makers. 

When Torbjorn lets the secret of his clan’s muffin recipe slip, he calls doom and destruction down upon his peaceful village and forces his brother Storfjell and his clansmen to do the one thing they are ill-prepared to do: battle for their lives.

About The Buttersmiths’ Gold
The Buttersmiths’ Gold is a spin off novella in the Evertaster series that tells the story of two Viking brothers and their adventurous past. The Evertaster series (Book #1 released June 14, 2012) is about Guster Johnsonville, who goes searching for a legendary taste rumored to be the most delicious in all of history. Along the way he meets a slew of mysterious characters, including two Viking brothers Torbjorn and Storfjell. The Buttersmiths’ Gold is their story. 124 pages. By Adam Glendon Sidwell. Published by Future House Publishing.

If you’re interested in checking out Book 1, here is what it’s all about:
A legendary taste. Sought after for centuries. Shrouded in secrecy.
When eleven-year-old Guster Johnsonville rejects his mother’s casserole for the umpteenth time, she takes him into the city of New Orleans to find him something to eat. There, in a dark, abandoned corner of the city they meet a dying pastry maker. In his last breath he entrusts them with a secret: an ancient recipe that makes the most delicious taste the world will ever know — a taste that will change the fate of humanity forever.
Forced to flee by a cult of murderous chefs, the Johnsonvilles embark on a perilous journey to ancient ruins, faraway jungles and forgotten caves. Along the way they discover the truth: Guster is an Evertaster — a kid so picky that nothing but the legendary taste itself will save him from starvation. With the sinister chefs hot on Guster’s heels and the chefs’ reign of terror spreading, Guster and his family must find the legendary taste before it’s too late. 

Purchase on

Amazon