"Good, Clean Murder" by Traci Tyne Hilton was Disappointing

Good, Clean Murder by Traci Tyne Hilton is indeed a plain Jane mystery.  It is about Jane, a 20-yr-old college student hoping to go to the mission field and cleaning houses to earn her way.  Unfortunately, she gets involved in a big mess because she refused to listen to her parents.  Although it started out with the murder which captured my interest, it quickly went downhill from there and I found myself plowing through.  I do not recommend this one—didn’t care for it.
(Karen's review, 2 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Tuesday Teasers: 4 For You

Gerard's:

I saw parts of myself in nearly all of them, and each time I did I felt angrier and sadder, if a bit less lonesome.  We were the fools who were never supposed to meet, the very opposite of a conspiracy, who'd worked together for his betterment, oblivious and separate.

From page 92 of Blood Will Out--The True Story of a Murder, a Mystery, and a Masquerade by Walter Kirn 

He waited another moment, and then leaped at my nose.  I caught him mid-jump.  His teeth were sharp enough to draw blood and I did not want to spoil this sort-of-almost-hallowed moment of bestoing a name.

From page 26 of The Dog That Talked to God by Jim Kraus.  (Click link to see my review.)


Karen's: 

Why isn't she talking?  She should say something, anything, but Charlotte's holding her hand so tightly between hers; she's clinging to Eve and it's all Eve can do to stand beside her best friend as the police thunder up and down the stairs, tromp through all the rooms..

From page 71 of The Deepest Secret by Carla Buckley.

"This could be an isolated incident, like a bad dream, or indicative of a psychotic episode," Judy explained.  "I've seen it before in some people as they age."

From page 38 of I Will Never Forget by Elaine C. Pereira.

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should  Be Reading. Anyone can play along, so I thought  I  would play for fun! Just do the following

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page (well, we cheat and choose specific ones)
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on  that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away!   You don’t  want  to  ruin the  book for others!)
• Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR  Lists  if they  like your teaser.   

Happy Reading!

"The Dog That Talked to God" by Jim Kraus (UPDATED)

The Dog That Talked to God by Jim Kraus is about a bitter widow who blames God for taking away her husband and son who died in an auto accident when hit by a drunk driver more than about the dog.  Mary doubted her faith and stopped praying to God for a long time.  She got a puppy she named Rufus and used it as a sounding board.  Then one day the dog talked to her.  This Christian fiction book dragged along for me but at least had a good ending.  I preferred the author’s other book better— The Cat That God Sent.
(Karen's review, 3 stars)

The Dog That Talked to God by Jim Kraus is about a woman named Mary who decides to get a dog for companionship after her husband passes away.  She names the dog Rufus and what a tale tale they tell!  This book starts out a bit slow, but stick with it.  I loved Rufus and I grew to like Mary too as the book went on.  It has some good stuff that I did not see coming and a great ending!  It's worth the read!
(Gerard's review, 5 stars because Rufus is so good!) 

 

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"The Long Way Home" by Lauraine Snelling (last of series)

The Long Way Home by Lauraine Snelling is the third book of “A Secret Refuge” series that kept my attention all the way with excitement and adventure including family drama, traveling with a wagon train, a bear attack, imprisonment, weddings, Indians and establishing a new home.  Although this is Christian fiction, it is not a predictable ending where all the loose ends get tied up.  It is a family saga that emphasizes all are created equal regardless of geographic location or skin color.  This takes place near the end of the Civil War and covers the effect the war had on both the lives of the south, the north and even the west.   

I enjoyed this entire series of light reading and was happy with the ending.  I liked that not all the slaves were mistreated.  My favorite characters in this series were Jesselynn, Thaddeus (her little brother), Meshack (a very smart, strong, Christian former slave) and Wolf (a half breed wagon master).   I highly recommend this series if you enjoy reading about the Civil War era or enjoy Christian fiction that has some depth to it..

 

This is the 8^th book I’ve read this year about the 1800’s during the Civil War era and I would rank it second to Michael Phillips’ Shenandoah Sisters series.
(Karen's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Tuesday Teasers: 4 for You

Gerard's:

You know, I have a really great attitude about all this cancer thing.  I smile, laugh and joke about it.

From page 56 of This Star Won't Go Out--The Life and Words of Esther Grace Earl byEsther Earl with Lori and Wayne Earl. (Click link for my review--Esther died of cancer at age 16.  This is a beautiful book about her life!)

I kick him to get him on his side of the line and he cries and there is yelling and Momma is yelling back and Daddy is roaring and sounds like a lion with a big mane that shakes.  I don't like this Daddy that is shouting so much.

From page 15 of The Bear by Claire Cameron.  


Karen's: 

In fact, Bob hadn't moved a muscle when his covers had come flying off him.  Surely, if a big guy like him had moved, she would have noticed.

From location 190 on Kindle of Good, Clean Murder:  A Plain Jane Mystery by Traci Tyne Hilton.

She ignored that reasonable voice within her head and continued to hope.  Just the thought of seeing Wolf again set her heart to thumping.

From page 93 of The Long Way Home by Lauraine Snelling.  (Book 3 of A Secret Refuge series)

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should  Be Reading. Anyone can play along, so I thought  I  would play for fun! Just do the following

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page (well, we cheat and choose specific ones)
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on  that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away!   You don’t  want  to  ruin the  book for others!)
• Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR  Lists  if they  like your teaser.   

Happy Reading!

"The Bear" by Claire Cameron

The Bear by Claire Cameron is based on a true story.  It is told by a 5-yr.-old girl who must look after her 2-yr.-old brother and her Teddy bear after her parents are attacked by a bear while camping in the woods.  It is well told and I did not know what was going to happen.  It was interesting to get the child's view on this.  Give it a chance; you will be glad you did!
(Gerard's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Sisters of the Confederacy" by Lauraine Snelling (A Secret Refuge Series)

This is the back cover (the front has a big library label on it)

Sisters of the Confederacy is the second book in the Secret Refuge series by Lauraine Snelling.  It is about God's protection of three sisters during the Civil War who each have different lives--one married and well off, Louisa living with her aunt in Virginia trying to save wounded soldiers, including her brother, and Jesselynn on her way to Oregon with her horses, her little brother, and her freed slaves to start over.  Jesse and her troop join up with a wagon train and her secret is discovered when she is thrown from her horse into a creek and getting all wet.  Jesse questions God about the war and why little children die but mean men get to live.  Both sisters are brave and feisty. 

I enjoyed this book because Jesselynn is such a strong woman and feels responsible for those traveling with her.  Sometimes she feels overwhelmed, especially when Daniel finds himself in jail and is about to be hanged for something he didn't do.  The horse race was exciting too and loved how she handled it.  I really liked the story line about Jesselynn, but the one about Louisa, not so much.  I look forward to reading the last one in this series.  (Karen's review, 4 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"This Star Won't Go Out" by Esther Earl with Lori and Wayne Earl

In This Star Won't Go Out --The Life and Words of Esther Grace Earl by Esther Earl with Lori and Wayne Earl, you get to know and meet a remarkable young lady, Esther.  This is her book and what a book it is—fun, thoughtful, loving and always interesting.  I went through a lot of emotions reading this one and was glad I had some tissue handy.  Esther’s friends talk about her and the bond they built with her.  These letters are the most touching part of the book.  Her mom and dad write in it too, and her dad’s eulogy at the funeral was so good!  I wish I could have met Esther.  This book will stay with me a long time!
 Here is a teaser from page 56:

You know, I have a really great attitude about all this cancer thing.  I smile, laugh and joke about it.

(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Fire and Flood" by Victoria Scott is Great!

Fire & Flood by Victoria Scott is about a young teen girl named Tella.  Her brother is dying and one day Tella gets a package that offers a cure for her brother, but she has to win a race.  This is a great book with plenty of good action and "wow" moments.  I liked Tella right off.  This one is a "must read."  I look forward to book two of this series!
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Flora & Ulysses" by Kate DiCamillo is a Fun Read (Juvenile)

Every so often I like to read a fun book where I do not really have to figure out anything.  Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo is an enjoyable read that made me chuckle.  This book is about a young girl named Flora and a squirrel she calls Ulysses.  The story is pretty good and I especially liked the illustrations! (4 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Tuesday Teasers: Four for You

Gerard's:

Snow thudded off the branches of one of the apples trees, making Ruthie jump.  Had something else moved, something deep in the shadows?  She held her breath, waiting.

From page 57 of The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon. (Click link for my review)

The realization that I may be onto something slams into me.  My parents tried to conceal this.  My brother passed it off as a joke.

From page 20 of Fire & Flood by Victoria Scott.  


Karen's: 

David was able to answer every question!  The nurse was blown away.  She couldn't understand how someone with such extensive brain injury was answering questions as though nothing had happened.

From location 294 on Kindle of Miracles--32 True Stories  by Joan Hileman.(Click link for my review)

Sometime later Benjamin returned from a scouting trip, and after standing by the fire to warm himself for a bit, he turned to Meshach.
"I found somethin' real interestin'."

From page 38 of Sisters of the Confederacy by Lauraine Snelling.  (Book 2 of A Secret Refuge series)

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should  Be Reading. Anyone can play along, so I thought  I  would play for fun! Just do the following

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page (well, we cheat and choose specific ones)
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on  that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away!   You don’t  want  to  ruin the  book for others!)
• Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR  Lists  if they  like your teaser.   

Happy Reading!

"The Winter People" by Jennifer McMahon

Keep the light on after reading this one!

The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon is about a mother of two young girls who one day just disappears and the girls try to find her.  There is so much more to the book than that, but to tell more would give away too much.  Suffice it to say this book will have you turning pages quickly.  If you read it at night, you might want to keep your light on.  There is plenty of "wow" moments in this one; it doesn't get much better than this!  I highly recommend it!  Read and enjoy! 

teaser from pg. 57:
Snow thudded off the branches of one of the apples trees, making Ruthie jump.  Had something else moved, something deep in the shadows?  She held her breath, waiting.
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Miracles--32 True Stories by Joanie Hileman

Miracles--32 True Stories by Joanie Hileman is a collection of short stories of 32 different people who experienced a miracle in their life.  Some are healing when the doctors gave no hope, some are completely transformed lives, some deal with family issues and some with children.  Each story lists several scripture verses after it which apply. 

Here are the websites some of the stories mentioned about where they found help:

-Turn For Christ (www.uturn4christ.com) as a place that helped them get off drugs.
Teen Challenge USA (www.teenchallengeusa.com)
Hume Lake (www.Humelake.org)
Calvary Chapel Central Maine School of Ministry (www.ccbangor.org)

Jesus Is (www.jesusis.com)

I really enjoyed this book because it was so interesting and encouraging to see how great and wonderful God is and that He is still performing miracles today.  This is very inspirational and well worth reading!  I highly recommend it!
(Karen's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Perfect" by Rachel Joyce

Perfect by Rachel Joyce tells two stories in the same book. Story one is told by an eleven-year-old boy whose mother got into a car accident and the consequences. The second is about a grown man who is slow learning and how he wants a relationship, but something is holding him back. I enjoyed both! It kept my interest as the story lines alternated.
(Gerard's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Pivot Point" by Kasie West (YA Paranormal Contemporary Fiction)--UPDATED 2/25/14

A Fun YA Read

Pivot Point by Kasie West is a YA novel about a group of young teens with special abilities.  One of them is able to see into the future and see what the outcome of choices would be.  I enjoyed the young girl who was the main character very much.  The first part of the book was very teenish but the second part that dealt with the main story about her dad I enjoyed.  Worth your time, glad I stuck with it.
(Gerard's review 2/25/14, 4 stars)

Pivot Point by Kasie West is a fun teen read that combines normal and paranormal in our modern world. Ever think it would be cool when you had a big decision to make, to be able to see into the future to see what would happen for both choices? That is exactly the super “ability” Addie has and uses when her parents announce they are getting a divorce and it’s up to her to choose which one she wants to live with. Her mom is staying in the compound where other people live who have some paranormal abilities, but her dad is going to live with the “normal” and work for the FBI using his amazing power of lie detection. After doing a search of both possible choices, Addie finds she is screwed (having to choose a bad path to avoid a worse one).

This is a light, fun teen romance with super powers involved. Although the book is a lot of nonsense, it is an entertaining and somewhat amusing read. I especially liked Trevor, Addie’s “boyfriend” in the normal world but liked the high school football parts as well. I found it especially interesting that the normal football was much more interesting than the parafootball. This book goes to show that we are better off without the super powers and that nothing is wrong with being normal.
(Karen's review 4/4/13)


Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Tuesday Teasers: 3 This Week

Gerard's:

Eleven-year-old Jonathan Steingraber opened his eyes.  Some kind of loud noise had jolted him awake.  Definitely screams, a woman's screams, and they sounded close, as if they were coming from the living room, or the kitchen.

From page 50 of The Death Class--A True Story About Life by Erika Hayasaki.  Click link for Gerard's review that went up yesterday.

There was no way I could make this decision.  It would've been better had they just told me what needed to happen, left me no choice in the matter.

From page 14 of Pivot Point by Kasie West.  (Click link for Karen's review.)


Karen's: 

I am so seized by fear I cannot think of a prayer to say, so I do what I do every day, I talk to my Father, and as I sit there, hands trembling, heart racing, rifle in my view, I ask one simple question:  "God, what are we going to do now?"

From page 13 of Prepared for a Purpose  by Antoinette Tuff. (Click link for Gerard's review.)


Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should  Be Reading. Anyone can play along, so I thought  I  would play for fun! Just do the following

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page (well, we cheat and choose specific ones)
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on  that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away!   You don’t  want  to  ruin the  book for others!)
• Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR  Lists  if they  like your teaser.   

Happy Reading!

"The Death Class--A True Story About Life" by Erika Hayasaki

The Death Class--A True Story About Life by Erika Hayasaki tells about an actual class called "The Death Class" taught by Norma Bowe.  The author of this book took the class for four years and there is a three-year waiting list to get into it.  The author tells the true stories of four of the students which are fantastic!  This is a real page turner for sure.  Norma is an excellent teacher who goes above and beyond for her students.  Erika tells the stories very well.  Put this on your TBR list--it's worth it!
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Daughter of Twin Oaks" by Lauraine Snelling

 Daughter of Twin Oaks by Lauraine Snelling is the first book in her Secret Refuge Series that I enjoyed.  It is at the time of the Civil War and Jesselynn is the daughter left to run the family's tobacco plantation called Twin Oaks.  Her brother is off at war, her parents are both dead and her two sisters are living with an Aunt in Virginia.  Twin Oakes is in Kentucky and she is trying to keep her few horses from being taken for use in the war.  After giving all her slaves their freedom, they decide to stay and keep working at Twin Oaks anyhow.  She proceeds to take the horses to her Uncle's farm in Missouri until the war is over, thinking they will be safe there.  She takes a few of her former slaves along, a wagon, a mule and her little brother Thaddeus.  Dressing like man, she and her group start their trek, trying to keep from soldiers seeing them along the way.  The other story line was about Jesselynn's sister in Virginia who volunteered at the wounded soldiers hospital.  The faith of the daughters is challenged by all the bad things that happen.

This book is full of action and adventure.  I was beginning to wonder if they ever would make it.  It is a quick read and left me wanting more.  Interesting characters and it made me more aware of the obstacles families in the south had to deal with during the Civil War.  I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
(Karen's review, 5 stars)     

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Prepared for a Purpose" by Antoinette Tuff with Alex Tresniowski--an Amazing Story!

Prepared for a Purpose by Antoinette Tuff with Alex Tresniowski is an amazing true story about how Antoinette stood up to a gunman who came into her school where she works and her own personal story.  Both are really good because this woman has been through a lot!  I enjoyed reading it and believe it will keep your interest as it did mine.  
(Gerard's review, 5+ stars)

Prepared for a Purpose by Antoinette Tuff with Alex Tresniowskiis mostly about Antoinette's personal life and very little about the gunman at the school who she confronted.  She is definitely a strong woman, coping with many problems while praying for God's help which is mostly what this book is about.  I liked it all right but it didn't really grab me.  I did feel sorry for her though having to deal with so many issues.  It's worth your time.
(Karen's review, 4 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd is GREAT! (Updated)

The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd set in the early 1800s tells the story of Sarah, a young white Quaker girl and Handful, a young black slave girl given to Sarah for her 11th birthday.  The story concentrates on both of them as they grow up and face their own adventures.  It is a great read right from the start.  I loved both girls.  This is the number 1 fiction book right now and I am not surprised.  I think it would make a fantastic movie and highly recommend it!  
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd is about slavery in Charleston during the early 1800s.  The story is told by Sarah, the daughter of a Judge, and Handful, the slave Sarah was given for her eleventh birthday.  It is the story of the lives of both these girls and their families.  Not only does it point out the injustice and brutality of slavery, but also addresses the women’s rights issue.  From a young girl, Sarah’s desire was to be a lawyer but no one encouraged her because she was a girl.  She gave Handful back to her mother but later offered to buy her back several times so she could set Handful free, but her mother would not give in.  Sarah searches for purpose and meaning to her life while Handful seeks to fulfill her mother’s dream of one day being free.

Although this book is very sad, it held my interest because I had to keep reading to find out what happened to Handful and her mother.  This is  great historical fiction novel about slavery and the abolition movement.  If I hadn't recently read the Sisters of Shenandoah series by Michael Phillips, I would have given this book 5 stars, but since I liked that series a bit better, I have to give this one 4 stars.

(Karen's review)

 

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Joining in with the Feline Friday hop.  It's easy, just post a picture of a cat.

Teaser Tuesday: Four Today

Gerard's:

She reaches into her pocket and pulls out the haemanthus I gave her.  It is smashed and flat.  Then loudly she screams to all those gathered, "Break the chains!"

From page 3 of Red Rising by Pierce Brown.  (Review up tomorrow.)



But now I am not sure what is real or what the consequences of a wrong answer will be.  While my classmates are concerned about the test affecting the years ahead, I worry I will not survive the day.

From page 1 of Independent Study by Joelle Charbonneau.  (Click link for Karen's review.)

Karen's: 

Well, so much for propriety.  She'd practiced lying, gone on a political tirade, and deeply offended her pastor, all in a few short minutes.

From page 25 (Loc. 404) of Daughter of Twin Oaks  by Lauraine Snelling.

Still, I felt that same urgency to play Luke's game that I had when we were playing chess.  Maybe, like in the chess games we played, he was way ahead of me--his moves already planned, and my demise already assured.

From page 112 of In the Blood by Lisa Unger.

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should  Be Reading. Anyone can play along, so I thought  I  would play for fun! Just do the following

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page (well, we cheat and choose specific ones)
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on  that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away!   You don’t  want  to  ruin the  book for others!)
• Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR  Lists  if they  like your teaser.   

Happy Reading!

"Independent Study" by Joelle Charbonneau (Updated)

Independent Study by Joelle Charbonneau is the second book in this Dystopian series about revitalizing the United States after it became devastated by wars.  It is now called the Commonwealth and a University is set up for training leaders.  Cia, at 17, is very smart and is eager to continue on with her studies after passing the initial testing because she wants to make a difference.  She has a good heart and helps others even though it puts herself in greater danger.

I really liked this book a lot because it's about leadership and what qualities make good leaders.  It was a page turner for me and I like that Cia, the main character, has so much integrity.  I'm hoping she can keep it intact throughout the next book titled Graduation Day.  I highly recommend this but only after you read The Testing.
(Karen's review, 5 stars)

Independent Study by Joelle Charbonneau picks up where The Testing left off.  We continue to follow Cia who has moved on to the University.  The first part of this book sets the stage for the second half which I found much more interesting.  I'll have to read the third book (Graduation Day) to see how this all plays out. 
(Gerard's review, 4 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"The Testing" by Joelle Charbonneau is all About Choices

The Testing is the first of a series of three books by Joelle Charbonneau and a young girl, Cia.  By orders of her government, she must go through a testing to move on to the University.  I thought the lead character was made to be a bit too smart compared to the other people, but near the end, an unexpected twist got my interest.  The last 100 pages or so were really good and it ended with a promise of a surprise in book two--Independent Study. 
(Gerard's review, 4 stars) 

The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau is a Dystopian teen thriller that starts slow but gets better and better as it goes on.  About half way through, things really pick up.  Cia, age 17, is chosen for "The Testing" to see if she can attend the University and become one of the leaders of the United Commonwealth to restore the country.  However, she soon finds out that the tests are not easy and have dire consequences if she fails.  It has been years since anyone has been chose from her Five Lakes Colony, but several others from her colony are also going with her to Tosu City to be tested, including her childhood friend, Tomas.  Cia is pretty smart, mechanically inclined, compassionate and very knowledgeable about plants. 

I enjoyed this first book of a series and had trouble putting it down when Cia and her friend, Tomas were struggling to survive the fourth test.  The relationship between Cia and Tomas was interesting to me as well.  This book is all about choices and consequences and the pressure of getting into college.  Basically, Cia's father's advice about trusting no one serves her well during the testing, but unfortunately, she didn't always follow it.  I look forward to reading the sequel:  The Testing:  Independent Study coming out this fall.
(Karen's review of June 23, 2013, 4 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"In The Blood" by Lisa Unger (Updated)

In The Blood by Lisa Unger is about a page-turning thriller about a young girl who takes a job of caring for a young troubled boy during the week for a few hours.  That is only one of the story lines though, there is a lot more to this book than that!  I finished it in two days because it was hard to put down.  The ending is fantastic but didn't see it coming.  Lisa Unger's books are always good, but she outdid herself this time!  I have not been "wowed" by a book in a while, but was with this one because the ending is so incredible.  This is a must read.  
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars) 

In The Blood by Lisa Unger is a psychological thriller that gets you hooked right from the start.  It is about family secrets and some bizarre behaviors.  This book has some very strange characters to say the least who kept me guessing.  Luke is an 11-yr-old boy genius psycho finds pleasure in manipulating and tricking people into doing what he wants.  Lana, a college student, is hired to be his “companion” after school to keep him out of trouble.  They play chess a lot and Luke keeps winning.  They change the game to a scavenger hunt which turns out to be much more than just a game.  I loved the ending!  If you enjoy a puzzle and intrigue with some mystery, this is a must read for you!  Although I was a bit confused at the diary entries, everything is explained in the end so stick with it and just see how the puzzle pieces fall into place. 
(Karen's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Joining in on Mama Kat's Writer's Workshop today with the book review prompt.

"Snowblind" by Christopher Golden

Snowblind by Christopher Golden is about a small town that a blizzard hit and people died with some other strange things occurring.  Twelve years later, another blizzard is about to hit and the town braces for what this storm will bring while remembering the last one.

This is a great read with tons of story lines and very believable characters.  I liked this page turner a lot!
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Tuesday Teasers: Four This Week

Gerard's:

When you stood outside my cage and my deep brown eyes met yours and I heard you say, "That's our dog," I could hardly believe it.  I was thrilled when you crouched down and reached in to pat me.

From page 3 of letters from Angel-In her own words, a true story of adventure, love and loss as told to Martin P. Levin.  (Reviewed this yesterday)

"You know," she said as she unlocked the door and then pulled it inward, snow flying in her face, "I really can take care of myself."

But, in truth, she could not.

And it was not her son at the door.

From page 26 of Snowblind by Christopher Golden. (My review up tomorrow.)

Karen's: 

After reading their letter, each Red panicked in her own unique way.  Each Red mistakenly thought she was maintaining control over emotions that seemed suddenly explosive.

From page 26 of RED 1-2-3 by John Katzenbach (We both reviewed this one.)

As I watch Will reach for the lid and pull it down, I hope Enzo is right.  Metal closes over me.  Everything goes black.

From page 119 of Independent Study by Joelle Charbonneau.

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should  Be Reading. Anyone can play along, so I thought  I  would play for fun! Just do the following

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page (well, we cheat and choose specific ones)
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on  that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away!   You don’t  want  to  ruin the  book for others!)
• Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR  Lists  if they  like your teaser.   

Happy Reading!

"Letters from Angel" as told to Martin P. Levin

4 paws up!

"Letters from Angel" is told by Angel, a senior dog who tells about his life with Mr. Levin and his aid, Paula.  It's a great story that Angel tells very well.  It is short but well worth reading.  Any dog love will love it just like I did!  Have some tissues handy, just in case.
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

"Letters from Angel" is a cute book written from the dog's point of view.  It is about the bond between a Sr. dog that was adopted from a shelter by a 90-yr-old man for companionship after his wife died.  It is a very quick read and even though it has a sad ending, the author shares his experience of having to put down his dog in a sweet way.  The dog is a Golden Retriever/Chow mix that won my heart.
(Karen's review, 3 stars) 

Similar Books that are good:  A Dog's Life--Autobiography of a stray by Ann M. Martin

Our dog Abby wrote a book too using Blurb -
See post about it:  Father's Day Gift Was a Hit--a Blurb Book
















Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"RED 1-2-3" by John Katzenbach

RED 1-2-3 by John Katzenbach is about three women who have been targeted to be killed by a man who calls himself the Big Bad Wolf.  They are called RED 1, RED 2, and RED 3.  Just an outstanding read!  The Big Bad Wolf is fascinating in how he plots the killings and the three REDS are good in how they try to keep from getting killed.  This is a real page turner with just enough twists to keep you guessing.  LOVED IT!  The ending was priceless!  
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

Karen's review, 4 stars:
RED 1-2-3 by John Katzenbach is probably the most unusual thriller I've read about an author/journalist who writes thrillers but isn't satisfied just to write them--he actually wants to live them!  He stalks three red-haired women with the intent to kill them all on the same day but when they find out they are not alone and join forces, the table is turned.  Throughout the book he refers to himself as The Big Bad Wolf and his wife as Mrs. Bad Wolf.  Other than his secret stalking, they appear to be an ordinary couple.  I felt sorry for the wife.  My favorite of the three Reds was Karen, the doctor, referred to as Red 1.  Red 2 was Sarah, a middle-aged woman who lost her husband and little girl in a car accident, and Red 3 was Jordan, a student who played basketball at a private school. 

I liked this one which had a surprise ending.  I liked all three women but felt sorry for Mrs. Bad Wolf, realizing she's been married to a killer!  I didn't care for all the detail, but suppose it was meant to show how ordinary their lives were.  It just seemed to drag along sometimes, but it had built up enough suspense along the way to keep me turning the pages and anxious to see how it was going to end.  It's quite a story!

WARNING--Spoiler Alert, Stop now if you haven't read this yet but plan to:
This is an odd thriller because no one gets killed except for Karen's two cats which really got me angry at the Big Bad Wolf.  But then, when I thought about it I realized that he would not have been able to kill the cats in the short amount of time he had been in the house because if they were anything like my cats, they would have hid when they heard the window breaking and for sure would have stayed hiding somewhere when the strange man came into the house.  He would not know their hiding places and cats hide very well.  Also, he killed them with a knife which means he would have had to hold them down which is not easy to do to an strange cat.  They run really fast!   

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Miracles and Massacres" by Glenn Beck

Miracles and Massacres--True and Untold Stories of the Making of America by Glenn Beck is fascinating.  It is broken up into twelve really good stories that deal with American history over the years.   You might think you know some of these, but you read about people that I'm sure you never heard of before.  I enjoyed it a lot!
(Gerard's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Teaser Tuesday: 3 Today

Gerard's:

Give Hetty back.  As if she was mine after all.  As if owning people was as natural as breathing.

From page 16 of The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd.

His life a mess, he was ready to drown himself in the river's muddy waters but something made him pause.  It was a noise, distant but steady:  the beating of a drum.

From page 64 of Miracles and Massacres by Glenn Beck.

Karen's: 

After reading their letter, each Red panicked in her own unique way.  Each Red mistakenly thought she was maintaining control over emotions that seemed suddenly explosive.

From page 26 of RED 1-2-3 by John Katzenbach


Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should  Be Reading. Anyone can play along, so I thought  I  would play for fun! Just do the following

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page (well, we cheat and choose specific ones)
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on  that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away!   You don’t  want  to  ruin the  book for others!)
• Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR  Lists  if they  like your teaser.   

Happy Reading!

Our Favorite Reads For January

Karen's Favorite:  The whole series by Michael Phillips (Christian Historical Fiction)

This Shenandoah Sisters Series was definitely my favorite for January.  It is a series of four books about the friendship between a slave girl and a daughter of a big plantation owner who both became orphans during the Civil War era.  The series is by Michael Phillips who did a fantastic job on it!  It could easily have been written as one big novel.  

Gerard's January Favorite:  Innocence by Dean Koontz

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Last of the Blue and Gray--Old Men, Stolen Glory, and the Mystery That Outlived The Civil War" by Richard A. Serrano

Last of the Blue and Gray--Old Men, Stolen Glory, and the Mystery That Outlived The Civil War by Richard A. Serrano is a fascinating look at the lives of some of the men who fought in the Civil War.  Most of these men lived to be over 100 years old--wow!  This book centers on one man who said he fought in the war but he really didn't.  I enjoyed hearing these stories!
(Gerard's review, 4 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Together Is All We Need" by Michael Phillips (Book 4 of Shenandoah Sisters series)

Together Is All We Need by Michael Phillips is a wonderful book about friendship and family sticking together and sacrificing to help each other out.  This is a very enjoyable coming of age series with a marvelous ending.  Kathleen and Mayme not only became friends and together worked to save Kathleen's plantation and made it productive again after the Civil War, but also built a very unusual household with both blacks and whites living together under the same roof in harmony.  The girls also learn from a good friend, Henry, how to trust the good Lord. 

I highly recommend you read the first three books of this series before this last one to fully appreciate it.  I absolutely LOVED this historical Christian fiction series and zipped through all four books.  They were enlightening, giving insight into how things were after the civil war for both whites and blacks and how even though the slaves were set free, they were still looked down upon by most.  This series shows how much people can accomplish when they work together unselfishly.  I look forward to reading more books by this author.
(Karen's review, 5++ stars)

The first three books in this series are:
Angels Watching Over Me
A Day to Pick Your Own Cotton
The Color of Your Skin Ain't The Color of Your Heart

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Pure Joy--The Dogs We Love" by Danielle Steel

Pure Joy--The Dogs We Love by Danielle Steel is a short memoir about her dogs she had over the years filled with funny, sad and touching stories, including pictures.  She also gives some advice for dog owners.  If you are a "dog person," you will enjoy this quick read.  I am and I did!  
(Gerard's review, 4 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"The Color of Your Skin Ain't the Color of Your Heart" by Michael Phillips (series)

In this 3rd book of the Shenandoah Sisters series--The Color of Your Skin Ain't the Color of Your Heart by Michael Phillips, Katie and Mayme continue to fight to save the plantation with the help of Henry and his son, Jeremiah.  Mayme gets a big surprise and Katie is thrilled to see her Uncle Templeton again and find the gold that was hidden in her house.  Will it be enough to pay off the loan on the plantation?  Will the bad men steal it from her?  How many more will find out her secret that her parents have died and what will happen to the four girls living on their own?    

This book has more surprises pop up, more action and some humor too.  I enjoyed this one too and look forward to finding out what happens next in the last book of this series. 
(Karen's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

WOOL by Hugh Howey

WOOL by Hugh Howey is a science fiction novel.  The earth has been ravaged and people must live below ground in silos.  To go outside means certain death, or does it?  All is not well in the silos as good and bad people clash.  It took me a while to get into this, but once I did, I loved it!  There is plenty of action and well worth your time.  I plan on reading the sequel and hear there will be a movie too!  (Gerard's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Tuesday Teasers: Four This Week!

Gerard's:

The view of the dead world filled up the entire wall of his cell, just like all the walls on the silo's upper level, each one full of a different slice of the blurry and ever-blurrier wasteland beyond.  Holston's little piece of that view reached from the corner by his cot, up to the ceiling, to the other wall, and down to the toilet..

From page 4 of Wool by Hugh Howey.  (My review will be up Wednesday.)

She looked down at the words on the letter.
"You have been selected to die."

From page 36 of RED 1-2-3 by John Katzenbach.
Karen's: 

Spooked all the more by Emma's sudden appearance on the other side of him from where Katie was trying to calm him down, Dover reared and whinnied and yanked the rope from Katie's hand.  The next instant he bolted past Emma and through the open door, and disappeared into the house.

From page 77 of The Color of Your Skin Ain't the Color of Your Heart by Michael Phillips.  See review of the 1st book in this series and 2nd book in this series.  My review of this one will be up Thursday.

     By the time he emerged back out onto the street two or three minutes later, a sober expression had come to the man's face--sadness tinged with a shadow of guilt.
     He knew what he had to do.  An apparently he had better waste no time doing it.

From page 91 of Together is all We Need by Michael Phillips.  (4th book of the Shenandoah Sisters series)


Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should  Be Reading. Anyone can play along, so I thought  I  would play for fun! Just do the following

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page (well, we cheat and choose specific ones)
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on  that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away!   You don’t  want  to  ruin the  book for others!)
• Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can  add the book to their TBR  Lists  if they  like your teaser.   

Happy Reading!

"A Woman's Passionate Pursuit of God—Creating a Positive & Purposeful Life" by Karol Ladd

A Woman's Passionate Pursuit of God—Creating a Positive & Purposeful Life by Karol Ladd took me several months to get through because I was reading it for a ladies Bible Study that met just once a month.  I finally just went ahead and finished it out.  It is actually sort of a commentary on the book of Philippians.  It has study questions in the back for use in group Bible studies in addition to the reflective thought questions at the end of each chapter.  I particularly liked that the author includes chapter summaries of the main points following each chapter to easily find main points.

After reading this book, I am going to make an effort to more gentle to all.  That is the chapter that spoke to me the most.  Although I liked her other book better, The Power of a Positive Woman, I would recommend this one too.  It has a lot of good advice and interesting examples.
(Karen's review, 4 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

Loved "Innocence" by Dean Koontz - A Must Read!

Innocence by Dean Koontz is about a young girl and a young boy who live away from people as much as they can because they both have issues with their appearance.  You will have to read the book to find out what they are.  When they come together one night, the story really takes off.  Wow, oh wow!  This is an amazing read!  I was into it from the get-go with plenty of action and characters I cared about.  It has a really , really good ending too!  I LOVED it!  This is my first "must read" book of 2014! 
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Zlata's Diary--A Child's Life in Sarajevo" by Zlata Filipovic

Zlata's Diary--A Child's Life in Sarajevo by Zlata Filipovic is her diary over a two year period of war in Sarajevo. She is 11 years old at the beginning and I was surprised to read how her life was much like that of American children. The book is pretty sad and depressing, day after day pretty much the same thing. It shows how terrible war is, how innocent people are impacted, and how very basic things made her so happy.

It made me thankful for all I have was a reminder to me that I have nothing to complain about! It goes fast but gives great insight into what it's like to live in a war zone.
(Karen's review, 3 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!

"Thank You For Your Service" by David Finkel

Thank You for Your Service by David Finkel is non-fiction focusing on the men and women who fight our country's wars and the toll it takes on them and their loved ones.  It contains very interesting stories and reads like a novel.  It kept my interest throughout.  I can't say it was an enjoyable read, but you should read it if you get a chance to get a glimpse of the sacrifices made and the tragic outcomes in some cases.  
(Gerard's review, 5 stars)

Have you read this one? What did you think of it? If you reviewed this too, feel free to share your link to your review in the comments. Happy Reading!