This is Romance Awareness Month Work Like a Dog Day August 5 th Work Like a Dog Day honors and recognizes the hardest working among us. Some people skate by, doing as little as possible. Others, do only what they have to. Others still work like a dog. While work is to be done, they dig in relentlessly. They seldom take a break until the task is completed. We want to make sure to differentiate between "Work-A-Holics" and those who "Work Like a Dog". Work-A-Holics are always working, even though they may not be working hard. Those who work like a dog, work very hard while they are working. But, they do not work all of the time. Today is a day to show appreciation for those who carry more than their load, and work like a dog. You can also honor them by working like a dog today. Forgiveness Day Global Forgiveness Day is held on August 27 th International Forgiveness Day- the first Sunday of August Forgiveness Day is a time to forgive and to be forgiven. It must be a pretty good thing, because there are two groups that lay claim to a Forgiveness Day in the month of August. Both are world or international events. There's enough trouble and strife in the world. Two forgiveness days can only help to make things better. We agree with the sponsors of this day, that a little more forgiveness will help to make the world a much better place. Global Forgiveness Day began in 1994. It was created and is sponsored by the Christian Embassy of Christ's Ambassadors. This holiday originated in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. International Forgiveness Day was created by the World Forgiveness Alliance, a non-denominational, educational foundation. According to their website: " International Forgiveness Day dedicated to evoking the healing power of forgiveness worldwide." The founder is Robert W. Plath, from Mill Valley, California. Book Lovers Day August 9 th and/or first Saturday in November. Book Lovers Day encourages you to find a place in the shade to relax with a good book. Book reading is a great hobby. It's an important one, too. Employers look for it on resumes. Reading is educational, informative, and relaxing. It makes us both smarter, and happier people. Book Lovers Day is a great day to celebrate. Just grab an interesting book, find a quiet, cozy place, and crack open the cover. Celebrating Book Lovers Day in August is pleasurable on the deck, under a shady tree, poolside, or in a cozy hammock. If you fall asleep while reading, that's okay. It's all part of the relaxing benefits of being a book lover. The Origin of Book Lovers Day: Our research did not find the creator, or the origin of this day. There is some disagreement over when this day is celebrated. The vast majority of sites list it on August 9th. A smaller number of sites have it recorded on the first Saturday in November. If you are a true book lover, you will enjoy celebrating it on both days. Localized organizations and groups have declared "Book Lover" days on various other dates. Bad Poetry Day Always August 18 th Bad Poetry Day is a day to create some really bad verse. But, why you ask? Perhaps, the answer is simply "because you can". Maybe, it exists to allow us to better appreciate good poetry. Or, perhaps it is to be written to irritate someone...... According to Wellcat.com, the creators of this day, the intention is to gather a group of old high school friends, and write some really bad poetry. Then, send the poetry to your old high school teacher. Wow!, That sounds like a lot of fun...... Today's Poem dedicated to you, the reader: So, you're a poet But you don't know it. Try writing some verse But, don't be terse. After it's writ, It will read like.......... Walt Whitman is probably turning in his grave. Happy Bad Poetry Day Origin of Bad Poetry Day: This special day was actually created by the good folks at Wellcat.com. They have created a number of special days and have actually copyrighted them so they can profit by it. Dontcha just love America!? Uberreader's review of Unrequited (Chaos Factor) by Elle Clouse By Heather Danielle July 31, 2016 This is an extremely intense short story. It begins with the heroine waking from a drugged kidnapping and the action continues to pile on, with the arrival of the hero of the story. The action just gets more gripping once the primary characters are interacting. This reader cannot wait to see where the next installment of this story goes. I would like to thank Ms. Elle Close for the free ARC of this story that I received exchange for an honest and unbiased review. Uberreader's review of Lake of Dreams by Linda Howard by Heather Danielle August 13, 2016 This is a beautifully constructed story of reincarnation, soul mates, and "second" chances. Linda Howard has been one of those authors who you cannot get enough of one or another of her writing styles and you wish she would write more of your preferred style. I absolutely adored this novella, it was precisely the style I prefer she write. It was moving, intense, suspenseful, and gripping. I could not put it down once the main characters of the story met each other. I myself would have gleefully read this story if it had had more details about the characters previous lives together, but maybe Ms. Howard knew what she was doing keeping it short and intense. This is an unbelievably great read. I want to thank Linda Howard, Pocket Star, Simon and Schuster, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this novella for free for an honest and unbiased review. Uberreader’s review of Falling Over You by Heather C. Myers By Heather Danielle August 17, 2016 This story about a young woman who can see a person who has for some reason has chosen not to pass on into the afterlife. It is moving and evocative. She starts to fall in love with a ghost all the while engaged to a living breathing man. This story illustrates the pitfalls of trying to love two men at the same time, even if one is a ghost. I enjoyed the steps she had to take to not seem crazy to others while carrying on conversations with a person no one else can see. I want to thank Heather C. Myers for the free ARC she provided for an honest and unbiased review. ckground:white'>3, 2016 This is a beautifully constructed story of reincarnation, soul mates, and "second" chances. Linda Howard has been one of those authors who you cannot get enough of one or another of her writing styles and you wish she would write more of your preferred style. I absolutely adored this novella, it was precisely the style I prefer she write. It was moving, intense, suspenseful, and gripping. I could not put it down once the main characters of the story met each other. I myself would have gleefully read this story if it had had more details about the characters previous lives together, but maybe Ms. Howard knew what she was doing keeping it short and intense. This is an unbelievably great read.
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Uberreader’s review of Just One Ride: F/M Mature Women - Fair of Lust by Melissa Moore July 21, 2016 By Heather Danielle This book is entirely geared to one sex scene, in fact I cannot consider this a book in the truest sense it is to short it is a novella or novelette. If you are connoisseur erotica this story is just for you, but again this is just an outtake not strictly a book. There is no real plot just a build up to a sex scene, a spot-on very explicit and intense sex scene. As I personally am not an aficionado of erotica (I prefer a story with a plot)I was somewhat disappointed. I have read Ms. Moore’s previous stories and yet again I have to say that none are of a length I consider book length, but that is my personal opinion. On to a more constructive point I have seen real growth as a writer in Ms. Moore’s her syntax, grammar, perspective, and overall style have improved tremendously. Thank you Melissa it is a gift and pleasure to watch a write mature in their craft. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. July's Recipe: Your New Summer Snack Refrigerator Dill Pickles (makes 1 quart) This one's straight from AAA—that is, the Assistant Amy Archives. Use up your garden's bounty of cucumbers and make these crunchy, garlicky pickles. You'll won't go back to your grocery store standbys. Quick. Easy. Cheap. Gluten-Free. What more do I need to say? Ingredients : 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon iodized table salt) 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns 1 teaspoon ground coriander 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced 2 teaspoons dried dill (or ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped) 2 cucumbers, halved then sliced into spears ½ cup distilled white vinegar Directions: · In a quart-size Mason jar, add the salt, peppercorns, coriander, garlic, and dill. · Placed sliced cucumbers in the jar. · Pour in vinegar. · Fill the jar with water until the liquid reaches half an inch from the top. · Close the lid, shake, and place in the refrigerator. Cook's Notes : · You can start eating the pickles after 24 hours, but results are best after 3 days. They'll last in the fridge for at least a month! · Depending on your preference, you may want to play with the amount of salt. I (Amy) don't like things too salty. This is just a jumping-off point! As seen in J.T. Ellison's newsletter. For more recipes, visit JTEllison.com. Uberreader's review of Chasing Cristabel (Ashland Pride #6) by R.E. Butler July 10, 2016 by Heather Danielle This is a very intense story line, of a woman wanting to control her own life and not bow down to the demands and expectations of family and community. I read this book in nine hours. There is action in every page which keeps the reader engaged. R. E. Butler is a true story teller her world and characters are vibrant and alive. I am fan of this series, not once have I been disappointed with any of the other books in this series. They like this book are intense edge of your seat rides. You will come to love all the characters (as I do) in the pride as if they are a part of your family. The patriarch of the pride has managed to keep his extended family together through many times of hardship. The primary characters are as individual as people are meant to be. Uberreader's review of Highland Awakening (Highland Knights #2) by Jennifer Haymore July 10, 2016 by Heather Danielle This book has the action and intrigue you desire in a book, while it retains a feeling of family. It reunites you with old friends (i.e.; the House of Trent) while introducing you to new characters. This book exposes secrets and hidden truths. I have been a fan of Ms. Haymore's work since the first book in the House of Trent series and this book was no disappointment. Ms. Haymore served up her usual above bated breath experience. Camden and Esme seem perfect for each other; neither conforms to the dictates of the society they live within. I am happy to recommend this book to any who enjoy historical romance, or just plain romance, and intrigue. I have since bought my own copy of this novel. I want to thank Ms. Jennifer Haymore, Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept, and NetGalley for the free ARC I received for an honest and unbiased review. Uberreader's review of Born of Legend (The League #9) by Sherrilyn Kenyon July 10, 2016 by Heather Danielle “It’s official Take a Psycho to Work Day. Why else would I be here?” I have been a longtime fan of Sherrilyn Kenyon and I absolutely love this statement. I started with her original three League books and of course Fantasy Lover. I have never been disappointed by her writing. I don't know about anyone else, but I feel like she had to leave out parts of this story (example: we leap from the christening of the twins to Jullien being Trajen's field admiral) we do not have the opportunity to read about the wedding or Jullien's hazard. That is not to say I did not enthusiastically enjoy every minute of this book. I love how she portrays the children in this story; they are so true to life and adorable. The overall plot continues and you will not want to wait for the next installment. In this book she again shows that in truth there are always three sides to every event yours, theirs, and what really happened, as a police officer will tell you no two witnesses see the same event the same way. Ms. Kenyon uses this phenomenon very often to excellent advantage in her writing as well as making you understand that sometimes a villain is not a villain at all but someone who is just trying to survive in unspeakable circumstances. I have to respect Ms. Kenyon in that she illustrates we should all try to get along with each other and not judge each other. I highly recommend you check out this or one of Ms. Kenyon's other books. They entertain while giving you essential life lessons we should all employ, just one heads up this is part of an ongoing series to truly appreciate it you may want to start at the beginning. You will understand the dynamics between the characters better, but it can be read as a standalone if you must. I think there should be an extra star for authors of this caliber. Independence Day is the National Day of the United States Independence Day of the United States, also referred to as the Fourth of July or July Fourth in the U.S., is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, by the Continental Congress declaring that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as a new nation, the United States of America, and no longer part of the British Empire. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, and political speeches and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. Uberreader’s review of Alien Warrior (Alien Cube Book 1) by Ashley L. Hunt July 3, 2016 by Heather Danielle I only received the first thirteen chapters but I was mesmerized and completed it in no time at all. This book seems to be by all indications so far to be an amazing read. I would have enjoyed reading the whole book, but what I have read as of this review was intriguing. This is a fast paced and exciting book, everything suggests that this book will continue to be a great read. I received this book from Ms. Hunt for free as an e-ARC in exchange of an honest and unbiased review. June 26, 2016 is America's Kids Day!, is Beautician's Day!, is Descendants' Day!, is Forgiveness Day!, is International Day in Support of Victims of Torture!, is Log Cabin Day!, is National Canoe Day!, is National Chocolate Pudding Day!, is Tropical Cocktails Day! So in honor of the day I am giving you the recipe for a signature drink designed for Marianne Morea. THE BLOOD DROP MARTINI - Sweet as sugar with a sexy bite! Those of you who've been convention attendees with me know my favorite drink is a Lemon Drop Martini...well...Guess who's had a signature drink designed for Authors After Dark? ME! So, in honor of the release of COLLATERAL BLOOD at the event, we've taken my favorite lemon drop concoction and added a little sizzle to the sweet! Introducing the Blood Drop Martini! ...and the vampires in the Cursed by Blood Saga are thrilled! Here's the recipe! 1 1/2 oz Grey Goose® vodka 1/2 oz triple sec 1 tsp superfine sugar 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice Grenadine to taste Place Vodka, Triple Sec, lemon juice and sugar into a cocktail shaker with 4-5 ice cubes and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Run the lemon twist around the edge of the chilled martini glass and dunk in a small amount of sugar for a coated rim. Pour the strained martini into the chilled glasses and add a drop of grenadine to the bottom center. Enjoy! Uberreader’s review of Origin (Copula Chronicles, #1) by Venessa Kimball June 23, 2016 By Heather Danielle This is a very elaborate, complex, and cryptic story. It tends to be a slow paced and challenging read, but that does not mean it is not diverting. It does mean you do have to read for some time to appreciate the true beauty of this story. The characters are a slightly hard to understand initially but you quickly become committed to them and their cause. I would definitely recommend this book to any and all that appreciate a truly complex and complicated storyline. I want to thank Ms. Kimball, Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing for the free ARC of this book I received in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. P.S. anything in color is a link. This is a day to remember all the things our Dad’s do for us, especially when we are/were children. So remember to give Dad a call or hug and just maybe spend the day with him to let him know you care. Here is what Wikipedia says about Father's Day Father's Day is a celebration honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. In Catholic Europe, it has been celebrated on 19 March (St.Joseph's Day) since the middle ages. This celebration was brought by the Spanish and Portuguese to Latin America, where 19th March is still used for this celebration. In the US, Father's Day has been celebrated since the early twentieth century, and is on the third Sunday of June. Uberreader's review of Allegiance of Honor (Psy-Changeling Series #15) by Nalini Singh By Heather Danielle June 19, 2016 This book does an absolutely amazing job of answering many of the most frequently asked questions many of the readers of this series probably had been wondering about. Examples; Xavier and his quest, the number, sex, and species of the pupcubs Mercy carries, and last but definitely not least the Consortium. I will not state the answers in this review as not to spoil another's enjoyment. I will state that I had a very difficult time putting this book down to do other things. I was so engrossed that I even forgot to go to sleep, until forced, the last two days. This book is a must read, especially if you are fan of this series, Ms. Singh, or of the paranormal genre. I cannot state firmly enough that this book is an extremely great read. I want to thank Ms. Singh for her exceptional writing and storytelling. I loved the book. As a special treat for all you Dad’s out there. Here’s a recipe from Laura Marie Altom's scary kitchen! Southwest Cilantro-Lime Salad Hubby and I have been trying to eat healthier, and I'm excited to try this yummy-looking dish!! Let me know what you think: recipe by Kelli Golden at Get in My Belly Ingredients: Large head of romaine 15 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained 1 large orange bell pepper 1 pint cherry tomatoes 2 cups frozen, thawed corn 5 green onions Dressing: 1 cup loosely packed cilantro, stems removed and roughly chopped 1/2 Avocado Juice of 1 lime 2 Garlic cloves 1/4 cup olive oil 1 1/2 tsp. white wine vinegar 1/8 tsp. salt 2 tsp Nature Nate's honey Directions: 1. Puree all dressing ingredients in a food processor/blender until smooth. 2. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. 3. Finely chop romaine, bell pepper, tomatoes, and green onions. 4. Place all ingredients in a large bowl and stir to combine. 5. Toss with homemade cilantro-lime dressing. 6. Enjoy! Today -- June 14 -- is Flag Day. The day marks the adoption of the American flag by the Continental Congress in the First Flag Resolution of June 14, 1777. The first resolution signified the flag should be "13 stripes alternate red and white: that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation." Uberreader's review of A Taste of Seduction by Bronwen Evans June 13, 2016 By Heather Danielle I have all of Ms. Evans Disgraced Lords Series so far and have to say have enthusiastically enjoyed them all. They are well thought out and insightful, the continuity is exceptional, all in all her books keep you on the edge of your seat just waiting for what will happen next. Her characters grow with each book and do not stagnate. You see how they all become important to the story, not just the primary characters. You also get to see that although not all are related by blood that these books are about a family dealing with tragedies and sorrows together and being the stronger for persevering. This book in particular shows all this allowing us to see how all the characters bring this story to life. The truly heart wrenching moments will probably bring some to tears, as with her previous books in this series. I wait in anticipation for the final book. If you have not read any of this series I would recommend you start at the beginning and then precede to this book the plot really will make more sense, than if you read this as a standalone. I want to thank Loveswept, Random House, and NetGalley for the free ARC of this novel, which I received for an honest and unbiased review. I would also like to thank Ms. Evans for writing such a stirring series as I stated earlier I wait in anticipation for the conclusion of series. Uberreader's review of Devil and the Deep by Julie Ann Walker June 13, 2016 By Heather Danielle I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this book; in fact I barely put it down. I finished reading this book only seven or less hours after I began reading. I was engrossed by the story as well as the plot. The suspense is fascinating; it keeps you just wanting to see what happens next. The characters are bright and bring vibrancy to this novel. I laughed and wanted to share the antics of the women and teenagers as I could envision that scene so clearly. The scene awoke a need to share that portion of the story with another, which as this is an ARC I had to suppress. This book is a definite must read, in fact if I have the time I will probably check out the others in this series, just to see if they are as gripping. I would like to thank Sourcebooks and NetGalley for the free ARC of this book that I received in exchange for a honest and unbiased review. I would also like to thank Julie Ann Walker for a book that was nearly impossible to stop reading. As a Flag Day Treat I am including this recipe from MadelineHunter. Recipe — Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms Summer is party time. I like to offer one hearty appetizer when I entertain. Here is an easy one. Ingredients: 40-50 medium mushrooms 1 lb. of bulk pork sausage 1 tbsp. honey 1 tsp. sage 1/2 tsp. thyme 1/4 tsp. allspice pinch cayenne Parmesan Preheat oven to 450°. Clean mushrooms and discard the stems. Combine all ingredients, except for Parmesan and mound mixture into mushroom cavities. Sprinkle with a little Parmesan and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 30 min. Should be made ahead of time. Bake as guests arrive. Very easy and delicious for a hot appetizer. All the best to you and yours on this Flag Day. Uberreader's review of Portrait of a Forbidden Lady by Kathleen Bittner Roth June 7, 2016 By Heather Danielle This novel overall is a very mesmerizing story. The interaction between not only the primary characters, but the secondary as well makes an exceptionally entertaining experience. You will experience the intense sorrow and regret felt by Georgie and Rob as the story progresses. This is a multi-generation book which in my opinion adds additional texture to any storyline. I do like that Ms. Roth leaves the reader waiting to see what will happen next with this family. I want to thank Ms. Roth, Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to receive an ARC of this novel, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. I have since purchased a copy of my own and I believe that says it all. Uberreader's review of Feral (A Many Lives Story) by Laxmi Hariharan June 7, 2016 By Heather Danielle This short story is a very poignant in that it deals with the questions raised by adoption (or kidnapping). This novelette deals with a young woman's need to find her roots, place in the world, and identity and does the job extremely well. I can say that from my perspective Ms. Hariharan has found her calling. This story was well worth the effort and profoundly insightful. I am definitely interested in reading more from this author. I sincerely wanted to thank Ms. Hariharan for the free copy of this book I received in exchange for a honest and unbiased review. As a Special Treat here’s a recipe from J. T. Ellison. Gluten-Free Chocolate Ganache Cake I was absolutely desperate for chocolate cake for my birthday, but my GF world doesn’t allow for my favorite Betty Crocker chocolate on chocolate. I stumbled across this recipe from Deliciously Ella, and holy cow, it delivers. An absolute flavor explosion, and sinfully rich. It doesn’t matter that it’s gluten-free and made of avocados (ergo: good for you!), this dessert will win over everyone. Cake Ingredients 1. Coconut oil, for the pan 2. 3 avocados 3. 7 tablespoons almond butter 4. ½ cup cacao powder, plus more to dust 5. 1 ½ cups plus 3 tablespoons maple syrup 6. 1 ½ cups almond meal 7. 3 tablespoons chia seeds Cake Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (convection 325°F). 2. Oil an 8-inch cake pan with coconut oil. If your pan isn't silicone, line it with parchment paper. 3. Scoop the avocado flesh out of the skins and into a food processor. Add all the other ingredients and blend until smooth. 4. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and level the top. 5. Bake for 30 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. 6. Leave to cool and bind together for at least 20 minutes before turning out of the pan. Ganache Ingredients 1, ½ cup coconut oil 2. ¼ cup raw cacao powder 3. ¼ cup maple syrup Ganache Directions 1. Warm the coconut oil in a small saucepan just until it melts. 2. Stir in all the other ingredients until you have a smooth, glossy glaze. 3. Use it to frost the top of the cooled cake, then leave to set. As seen in J.T. Ellison's newsletter. For more recipes, visit JTEllison.com. Want a wine to go with your recipe? Check out J.T.'s wine blog, The Wine Vixen, at TheWineVixen.com. I would like to Thank all Service Men and Woman, past, present, and future. These brave souls fight not just for our freedoms, but for a better world and I truly believe we should remember them always. This weekend we saw a lot of Memorial day celebrations, but today is supposed to be a day to give thanks and remember the sons and daughters of this country that have in some cases given their lives so that we can live free. Let us never forget their and their families sacrifices. A Sweet Release from Author Anna Alexander and My Thoughts on Some Books What is a Sprawling A book without a delicious treat? Even I'm not sure what Adam fell in love with first, Nic or her cheesecake. Samoan Cheesecake Here is the recipe I invented with a few culinary classmates when we were given the task to dream up a cheesecake bar. INGREDIENTS: 8oz chocolate wafer cookie crumbs 3oz melted butter 1 pound 2oz Chevre (mild goat's milk cheese) room temperature 6oz Marscapone cheese 6oz granulated sugar 1/3 cup heavy cream 5 eggs at room temperature 8oz granulated sugar 1/3 cup heavy cream 3oz coconut flake Dash of lemon juice and vanilla Melted chocolate. Directions: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Prepare a 9inch cake round or springform pan by covering the outside with aluminium foil. Melted butter. Combine butter with cookie crumbs and press into the bottom of the pan and partway up the sides. In a bowl cream together the Chevre, marscapone, and the six ounces of sugar. I a separate bowl, combine eggs and cream. Slowly mix egg mixture with the cheeses until smooth. Lumps cause cracks, so no lumps. Pour in to the cake pan. Place a pan in the center of a roasting pan, then place in the over. Pour warm water into the roasting pan. About one to two inches deep. You are creating a steam bath. Bake for about 50 minutes. After baking, allow the cake to cool. Once cool and released from the pan, melt the remaining sugar in a pan with a smidgen of water. Just enough to get the sugar wet. Let the sugar cook uninterrupted until it turns a golden brown color. Add the cream and a squirt of lemon juice and a dash of vanilla. Careful, the mixture will bubble fiercely. Stir in the flaked coconut. Pour over cheesecake in a thin layer. Finish by melting some chocolate and drizzle over the top. I know!! Can you imagine! Uberreader's thoughts on Jude Devereaux's Velvet (Montgomery) Series I have recently revisited Velvet Promise (they were recently republished in ebook format and were on sale at a bargain price). I have to say my favorite is still Velvet Song, maybe that's because I liked The Black Lyon (which could be considered a prequel for all the other Montgomery books). I began reading Ms. Deveraux's books decades ago when she was a new author and was starting her career as a writer (I still own those first paperbacks). I still prefer her historical romances to her contemporaries, but alas she has moved on with her writing, but this does not mean we should mourn we can still enjoy the first fruits of her brilliant mind with the republication of these old favorites. I own multiple formats of these books and have recommended them to others who became Ms. Deveraux's fans. Uberreader's review of A Gentleman's Surrender by Mariel Grey May 31, 2016 By Heather Danielle First and foremost this is a book about how people's secrets and lies not only affect their lives, but the lives of others. James Stanton believes he is avenging the insults done to his mother by her husband and another woman, but before he can complete his plans both his conscience and love find him. He falls in love with one of the innocents that will be injured by his mother's death bed request. This book was an interesting read that will keep you captivated wanting to know if he will continue or if he will realize he is about to ruin not just his victims lives but his own. I am assured that most romance fans will enjoy this book if for no other reason than love prevails, but there is so much more to this book. It has a moral lesson in there that is never going to be out of date. Thank you Ms. Grey good moral lessons that are still engaging are in short supply lately. I also want to thank Ms. Grey and NetGalley for giving me a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. This week May 23, 2016 we lost another truly rare, gifted and well respected author. Ms. Jo Beverley, née Mary Josephine Dunn had written many books in her career and won many awards, but I never really cared if an author was popular or sellable. I just cared if I liked the stories they told us in their books. Jo Beverley succeeded as far as I'm concerned. I have many of her books and have recommended her books to others, some of whom have gone on to recommend them to other friends. This in my estimation is the mark of a great author, not the awards (although I am sure they are nice), but if someone reads what you wrote and encourages others to do likewise. Jo Beverley had that in spades; even other authors enjoyed her works before they made it to the bestsellers list. So here is my suggestion to all those historical romance readers out there, pick up one of Jo Beverley books (wherever library, bookstore, or online) and read it. In my many years of reading there have been a lot of author's who have passed (H. Beam Piper, Andre Norton, Anne McCaffrey, Robert Jordan, just to name a few). And although I never personally met them I miss them, for the enjoyment, entertainment, relaxation, and just a general sense of happiness they gave us. Here is what Wikipedia has to say about Jo Beverley: Jo Beverley, née Mary Josephine Dunn (22 September 1947 – 23 May 2016) was a prolific English-Canadian writer of historical and contemporary romance novels from 1988 to 2016. Her works are regarded as well researched, filled with historical details, and peopled by communities of interlinked characters, stretching the boundaries of the historical romantic fiction genre. They have been translated into several languages, and she has received multiple awards. Uberreader's thoughts on Laurell K. Hamilton's Shutdown I have read this many times and still enjoy the glimpse into Anita's life. The interaction between the four characters is totally believable and true to life. I also want the thank Laurell and her editor for getting this out at a time when so many needed something to lift their spirits. If you are an Anita Blake fan and have not read this you really need to get a hold of a copy of this. Do Not Read Until You Finish DEAD ICE Ms. Hamilton recently wrote another glimpse into Anita's life in the short story WOUNDED. She put this in the back of the paperback version of DEAD ICE if you have the original e-book or hardback you are out of luck at the moment, unless like me you went to the local book store and read it. I was thoroughly engrossed and could not put it down until I finished. If you like Anita you will definitely want to read this, but heads up it contains spoilers, if you have not read DEAD ICE do not read WOUNDED until you have. Margaret Daley Recipe - Cucumber, Avocado, and Feta Salad This is from Two Peas & Their Pod website. Great recipes there. My husband and I had it this week and really enjoyed it. Perfect for summer. Easy to make. INGREDIENTS: 1 large seedless cucumber, chopped 3 large avocados, pit removed and chopped Juice of 1 lemon 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill Salt and black pepper, to taste (Next time I'm going to add sunflower seeds in it. I think this is a recipe you can play with and change up.) Directions: In a large bowl, combine cucumber, avocado, lemon juice, feta, and dill. Gently stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Uberreader's review of Cross the Stars (Crossing Stars Duet, Book 1) May 29, 2016 By Heather Danielle I really hate to say this to anyone but three chapters do not make a book, it could be that I was sent a sneak peek version and not informed of that. The copy I received is only 51 pages long and Amazon says this book is 312 pages. It does make a good opening to a book even if it is slow going in the first chapter. This would have been a good foundation to a longer novel which it possibly is or if Ms. Kimball was serializing the book it would be fine but as a standalone it needs more, much more. The characters are well thought out and thoroughly understandable. You can relate to Ella's struggle for a life of her own. Ragaa's conflicted feelings are perfectly understandable. There is just not enough narrative to call this a book. This is not worth the price asked for it, or it conceivably could be if the book is truly 312 pages long. I received a free copy of this book (or sneak peek) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. |
AuthorI am an avid reader and just became a semi-professional reviewer. I am in the process of starting my own blog site with links to my Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Goodreads reviews. I have encouraged reading in people of all ages for decades now, but we will not discuss my age as I am a lady. ArchivesCategories |