Picture Perfect Frame - A Review

I've read a few of the Tourist Trap Mystery series books by Lynn Cahoon in the past and was excited to see one as an available review copy.

I have missed the last several books and will have to go back to them because I feel like I was missing several pertinent events - mostly on the character's relationship storylines.

But, for anyone who likes cozy mysteries and reading about small towns and the characters who inhabit them - Picture Perfect Frame does not disappoint.

This series has more down-to-earth characters - it could be because of the setting of a Central California artsy town. It seems to be missing the more eccentric characters that are usually peppered throughout cozies. 

The story was very level - there weren't any pinnacle "scenes." But, if you like cozies - Lynn Cahoon's Tourist Trap Mystery Series books are right up your alley - I'd suggest a marathon since there are 13, plus 5 novellas.

Picture Perfect Frame

Lynn Cahoon

Pub Date:  March 16, 2021
Kensington Publishing Corp.

Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Kensington Publishing Corp. through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Gone Girl - a Review

I finally read “Gone Girl”, and…I’m not sure how I feel about it. I’m not sure if I can truly say I liked it that much. I finished it, so I know I wasn’t un-enthralled with the story and wanted to put it down and was not interested in picking it up again.

It was engaging, but hard because of the continuous twists and turns throughout the book. While reading the first part, I did try to guess what really happened and who did it. My sympathies kept changing between the characters. And, even when I knew I should not feel bad for “the bad guy”, I did, a few times.

I’m a gal who likes closure. You wouldn’t think it because I'm “Living My Life by the Seat of My Pants”, BUT in my books, I like closure.

Even books that are part of a series have some sort of closure to at least close up that part of the entire story. I was left empty. Wanting more but not in the way when I really like a story I want it to continue. I can say that from how it “ended”, if Gillian Flynn moved forward in the Nick & Amy story, I really wouldn’t want to read on and see what happens next because I think it would just depress me.

The book is filled to the max with a myriad of psychological/mystery/thriller emotions and character traits – Depression, Revenge, Vindictive, Lonely, Diabolical, Cheated, Psychopath, Murderous – Trapped.

I think anyone who likes books in this genre it’s a definite must to have under your belt. But, can I personally say I was intrigued enough to just recommend it to anyone…I don’t think so.

The writing was beautiful. The intricacies of story line elements - brilliant. Caring enough about how it all turned out at the end of the book to want to know what happens next…not so much.

At the end, with all the hype from people about it – I think I was a little disappointed. But, that is not to say that I won’t read other Gillian Flynn books…and, I will see the movie because I think with all the twists and turns, and interesting characters – it may be one of the few movies that I like better than the book.

Jennifer’s Way: My Journey with Celiac Disease-What Doctors Don’t Tell You and How You Can Learn to Live Again – A Review

I didn’t watch “Spin City” very much, and I only watch “Blue Bloods” when I am with my parents (but it’s a wonderful show), I have never seen “Crash”, but I did watch "Samantha Who?", yet Jennifer Esposito is such a strong, natural and profound presence in her acting - I remember a wonderful show she was the lead in that lasted only a season “Related” - that I immediately asked my mother when we were watching “Blue Bloods” earlier this year where was she. She said that she had some disease – maybe MS or Parkinson’s. She had no idea.

So, when I had the opportunity to read and review her book for my blog, “Jennifer’s Way”, I jumped at the chance. Jennifer’s Way is not only a book and a bakery, but a foundation for Celiac education.

I do not have Celiac disease (definition at the end). And until I read Jennifer Esposito’s account of her experiences, I would never have thought twice about it unless I knew someone who had it, and I think I may know a handful of people who are “allergic to gluten and/or dairy”, as well as other foods, or who have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, or have Lupus, and have a few other symptoms but may never have been thoroughly diagnosed or even misdiagnosed. I don’t want to put them in a panic, but I will be encouraging them to read this book.

But, according to Jennifer, I probably wouldn’t know if someone is a celiac because it’s a disease that sufferers will most likely keep quiet about other than telling people they are allergic to or can’t process gluten. I didn’t realize everything that does or may contain gluten until I read the book (Chapter 17 is filled with a plethora of information on foods, products, and strategies to take).

I have to be honest here, for those of us who don’t suffer from any food allergies (or none that I know of so far), most probably really don’t know the first thing about it other than once in awhile eating or drinking something that “doesn’t agree with us”.  It’s hard for me to imagine how to test for a food allergy since in my mind it could be something else you ate earlier or a combination of food and drink. I have to admit, I’m 47 and I don’t know really, how long it takes for food and drink to digest fully.

I have to applaud Jennifer Esposito for her candid, honest and openly sharing her story with this hidden disease and her perseverance to push through and rebuild her life. Since she is a public figure, it’s even more brave and giving of her to open her heart, pass on her experience and share her wisdom so others who may, or may not have celiac disease can come out of the shadows and take the bull by the horns and be heard.

I admire her persistence to find out what exactly was wrong with her, and her tenacity to take charge and change doctors and practitioners who weren’t working for her, and her courage to tell the world her story and to pass on vital information.

She’s right. You know your body better than anyone else does. Go with what your gut, so to speak, is telling you and you can’t go wrong.

I never listened to my body unless I was in pain, sick or bleeding. I’d be more aware if I woke up but still felt tired all day, was drained of energy, had a foggy head, had achy muscles, or if I was in a funk or fog that I couldn’t seem to shake…for me, it’s usually my over-taxed, over-thinking, over-stressing mind playing nasty tricks on me!

Over the past 15 years or so, when I started having my own tummy issues, I opened my ears and started listening to my body and can now tell when something isn’t quite right. I started focusing on what I ate, drank or if I was over-stressed – I tried to distinguish any patterns or triggers. Wednesday’s were the only consistent variable for awhile - although I'm still not sure why. But to this day I still listen and learn what my body is trying to tell me.

And, you have to be tenacious and persistent with your doctors. That is one thing I am going to be next time I visit a doctor. I have a few ailments I’ve been bogged down with for years and have been brushed off by doctors who are too lazy, really don’t care, or just don’t know enough but are too proud to admit it to pass me along to someone who may be able to serve me better.

I highly recommend Jennifer’s Way for anyone who is challenged with Celiac disease, knows someone who has it, as well as anyone who wants to read one woman’s account of how you should be aware, engaged and open about what is going on with your body, and to be proactive in finding out what is really going on and to take action to rectify it.

The information in Chapter 17 and the Resources section are worth it – for everyone. I’m going to take this information and pay more attention to what I put into my body, as well as see if any of the vitamins, supplements or strategies work for me. I luckily don’t suffer from celiac disease, but this new knowledge I now possess will be passed on to those I care about, as well as help me to be more mindful.

I think restaurant owners should also read this book and hopefully become more aware of people with food issues and understand fully about cross-contamination that could happen even when they are preparing food for folks with special diets if they even choose to serve these people, as well as food manufacturers and packagers, to understand what truly gluten-free is if they make these products and to take responsibility…not to just make money on the fad diet of the day.

Thank you to Jennifer Esposito for giving back and sharing – your journey, your bravery, your tools, your courage, your knowledge, your tenacity, your recipes, your insight, your advice, your power, and your heart. I personally wish you all the best health and happiness, and do hope that you will stay in the public eye and grace us from time to time with your rare acting gifts.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune digestive disease that damages the villi of the small intestine and interferes with absorption of nutrients from food. What does this mean? Essentially the body is attacking itself every time a person with celiac consumes gluten.

Jennifer’s Way
My Journey with Celiac Disease--What Doctors Don’t Tell You and How You Can Learn to Live Again
Jennifer Esposito with Eve Adamson
Pub Date: April 22, 2014
Perseus Books Group, Da Capo Press


Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Perseus Books Group, Da Capo Press through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of: Laughing Your Way to Happiness: Laughter yoga and the new science of health and well-being

I cannot wait to find a Laughter Yoga class & take it!!!

Just reading "Laughing Your Way to Happiness" and Leslie Lyle’s adventures makes me smile…and spontaneously laugh! When I think about it, laughing really does make you feel immediately better – instantly! So why not create a yoga structure around it to improve health and well-being.

I've been sitting in my big red chair reading and enjoying, shifting a little so often trying to get comfortable because I can never get in the right position to just be still & read. Usually by back starts to bother me, and I get a pain or a cramp down my hip & leg.

The last few days when I’ve “picked up” this book (it’s on my Nook) – I still fidget a bit to get comfy, but my lower back has been FREE of this knotted PAIN that I’ve basically had most days for over a year!

If I can feel better just by reading the book and reviewing the many exercises the author added to get the reader laughing, then just imagine what it’ll feel like laughing every day – strategically laughing with purpose and passion.

Some of the exercise may seem difficult to get into and understand, especially alone, but many people will probably feel silly doing laughing exercises in a group. It definitely depends on your personality. I know I wouldn’t feel silly, but I can think of a handful of friends who are a little more on the introverted side when it comes to doing certain things in public (even if it is in a “safe” environment such as a laughter yoga class).

The only thing I felt was missing were more in-depth instructions/examples – they just touched the surface. The example and links to other reference materials included in the book are plentiful. I think this is an excellent jumping off point of reference and a valuable introduction to a different kind of yogic practice – and one I’m looking forward to exploring more!

Laugh Your Way to Happiness:Laughter yoga and the new science of health and well-being
Leslie Lyle
Pub Date: February 28, 2014
Watkins Publishing


Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Watkins Publishing through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of What Nora Knew

In “What Nora Knew”, a great statement was made about “Sleepless in Seattle” – you knew that in the end they were going to get together, but it was the setting & the circumstances. The journey.

In this book, I have a feeling that these 2 characters are going to get together…but I’m anxious to follow and be mesmerized by their journey.

Molly is tired of being a staff writer assigned to work on some of the strangest assignments – undercover speed dating, posing nude for an art studio, seeing if she can sneak a vibrator through a security scanner, and dancing with the Rockettes. She yearns for her own column and has the chance at the possibility with an assignment to write a story about finding love in New York City “in the style of Nora Ephron”…it does not go well.

Molly’s current relationship with a chiropractor bears shades of “Sleepless in Seattle’s” Annie’s relationship with Walter. It’s steady and comfortable, but lacks fire and passion.

She is not impressed when meeting Cameron, an already-established mystery writer. But, you can already see the sparks fly and the banter between them would rival any known characters who share that same type of chemistry. The audience already knows where they are heading, but it’s fun to watch their journey evolve.

Throughout the story, bits and snippets of Nora Ephron’s trifecta, “When Harry Met Sally”, “Sleepless in Seattle”, and "You've Got Mail” are sprinkled around – in the storyline, with the relationship of the characters and in the end, when the girls finds the right guy.

For any lover of Nora Ephron and chick-lit, "What Nora Knew" is a delightfully entertaining story to add to your weekend reading list and with the witty quips throughout the story between Molly and Cameron, the journey of would make Nora proud.


What Nora Knew
Linda Yellin
Pub Date: Jan 21 2014
Gallery Books


Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Gallery Books through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of - In the Garden series - Blue Dahlia, Black Rose, Red Lily by Nora Roberts

I’ve recently predicted it’s going to be the year of Nora Roberts for me…I’m continuing with that statement and have been delving into a few of her book series.

The “In the Garden” series is about 3 women who come together through circumstance and choice. The book portrays strong women who stand on their own, yet come to depend on each other through a mutual mystery involving The Harper Bride. There is a plethora of paranormal, a touch of intrigue and mayhem, and an ancestry, history, floriculture and botany lesson – all rolled into 3 books that tell a tale revolving around the coming together of these women at the Harper House estate, and subsequently, fusing together over womanhoods, motherhood and strength.  

In the first book we are introduced to possible romantic partners and you basically know how each of those storylines end…one of the downsides to why I stepped away from romances and am only now delving back in, but they have to have something more, side story that peaks my interest and keeps it. It’s pleasant to walk through the paths all the characters take on these side journeys… it’s nice to see how all the relationships in the books bud, are nurtured, grow and blossom into the ultimate goal of every romance novel – love.

I think a series – be it book, movies, mini or TV, succeeds when the storylines you've been engrossed in over the course of story, be it book or movies, come full circle and yet you are left still wanting more. You want to see where these characters go, how their stories blossom and grown, and to see what happens next.

Success for a fictional writer today comes if you can see the story come to life - if you can picture it as a movie, mini-series, television or online series. So many wonderful movies and show have come from existing material.

In order to achieve this, you have to have engaging and endearing characters who are multi-dimensional and possess identifiable personalities – whether they be friend or foe; believable plot twists – even if the books are fantasy fiction; and a storyline and some events that may be “a tale as old as time” and echoing with familiar scenes and plausible outcomes but still surprises the reader.

I’ve just started reading Nora Roberts - although I’ve been a fan or J.D. Robb for a couple of years now and have gone right through over 40 novels and novellas on the Eve Dallas – In Death series. She is a master at blending romance, a bit of suspense, twists & turns and characters who you come to love and are engrossing and fully formed.

If you are a book lover and haven’t had the fortune to spend time and enjoy Nora Roberts (or J.D. Robb) books for yourself…I suggest you start.

Review of Starry Night, by Debbie Macomber

Yes! It is definitely going to be the year of Debbie Macomber for me.

Starry Night was touted as a Christmas story, and I guess that’s appropriate since the story is built around the holidays and ends on Christmas Day.

It’s a typical love story as they go, with some twists and turns and interesting characters and conflicts with settings between Chicago, Seattle and the Alaskan wilderness. It’s visually blended and presented beautifully so if you close your eyes you can almost anticipate the magical, made for TV movie that will be produced in a couple of years.

Lately, I’ve been reading some novellas and shorter stories – all the action completely packed into less than 200 pages – and I’ve been left feeling like they are rushed through somehow – there isn’t enough of a back story or the pinnacle points don’t build up enough and then they end – completed but I'm left not completely feeling fulfilled.

This book is about 120 pages, and Debbie Macomber fills each page with a full and meaty visuals, complexity and full characters, that even though the hills, valleys and peaks of the story intertwine and balance at the end, I still wished there were more to it.

Overall, any Debbie Macomber fan or romance genre fan won’t want to miss taking a few hours to indulge themselves. By the end of the book, you will wish to be transported to this starry, starry night.

 

Starry Night
Debbie Macomber

Published October 8, 2013
Ballantine Books

Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Ballantine Books through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of "Nora Roberts Land"

Surprisingly, I've never read a book by Nora Roberts. I HAVE read almost all of the "In Death" series by her alter-ego J.D. Robb.

The fact that Ava Miles mentioned the main characters Eve Dallas and Roarke several times in this book says how much of a true fan she is.

I started reading "Nora Roberts Land" in bed before I went to sleep. I read one chapter and knew I had to put it down because it drew me in right away. I knew I would be having a reading marathon if I kept at it and wouldn't get to bed until the wee hours of the morning.

It turned out I was correct. I started in on the second chapter and read the rest of the 335 page book, and went to bed at 3 a.m.

Not only am I going to read the rest of The Dare Valley series from Ava Miles, which thankfully all published within the last few months, I'll be making a concerted effort to read Nora Roberts' extensive collection of stories that have been enchanting avid fans for over 30 years.

"Nora Roberts Land" starts out as most other romance novels, with a strong woman who is having a crisis and is seeking for resolution. She decides to temporarily move back to her hometown of Dare Valley, Colorado and then the real fun begins!

Then, the book veers off a bit to include the mystery/thriller genre associated with J.D. Robb's books. It's a beautiful combination of all the wonderment and expected turbulence of a romance novel with an added twist to shake things up.

Nora Roberts should feel honored to be a "mentor" of sorts to Ava Miles. I think she did her proud! Anyone who is a fan of a captivating cast of characters, a great storyline that has the ups and downs we all face in life, strong family bonds, and an endearing love story rounds it out.

I look forward to a long and fulfilling "relationship" with Ava Miles, and I am eager to expand my current fandom with Nora Roberts.



Nora Roberts Land
Ava Miles

Published June 24, 2013
Aspendawn Books

Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Aspendawn Books through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of Leverage Your Laziness

For those of us who KNOW we are lazy, this book will still come as a surprise because it gives you a great formula to help you discover more about yourself and provides some simple tools that will help you to do what you love...all the time!

It's also a quick read. I finished it in about 3 hours which included some thinking, reflection and pondering on the questions asked by the authors.

And for those of us who KNOW we are lazy - the content doesn't go around in circles, spouting the same tiresome dribble that we've heard in so many other personal growth tomes.

It's the perfect mixture of inspiring quotes, sound advice, cheeky humor and self discovery...all rolled into just 67 pages!

I still took 3 pages of notes, including a few self discovery, assessment questions...yes, you DO have to do a little work...but I promise it will give you insight into how you can truly be lazy...doing the things you love!

I recommend Leverage Your Laziness to anyone who doesn't want to get stuck doing something they hate, are not good at or do not have fun doing - or, if you are in that prediciment now. Teenagers and Geriatrics alike will get something useful and possibly life-changing in just a few hours!



Leverage Your Laziness
Jeff Goldberg & Steve Bookbinder

Published June 1, 2013
Sound Wisdom

Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Sound Wisdom through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review - Throw a True Blood Party: An Unofficial Guide to Partying with Your Favorite Vamps

It's appropo today, of all days, that I decided to finally write the Blog post on this book.

It's fun! Why wouldn't it be? True Blood is fun.

Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse series was fun, but really ran out of steam by the end of the series and many people were disappointed with the ending.

The HBO series True Blood is fun...but has gone off the deep end from the original premise and has some really whacky plot twists and storylines.

Still...they are addicting....just like they are supposed to be. And, they are escapism in its truest form.

The ideas, the concepts, the tchockis, the costuming...everything in Throw a True Blood Party: An Unofficial Guide to Partying with Your Favorite Vamps will help you throw a bash that has all the undertones, and over-the-top tones for a night full of laughter and mayhem!

The only downside of having the products in the book is that there were coupons attached to several of them...but the majority of them expire at the end of 2013.

But, the Holidays are coming up & this would be a great gift for any friend or family member who is even the slightest bit obsessed with the books or show, throwing theme parties, or like an interesting array of books for their shelves and coffee tables.

Why...because it's FUN!

Happy Halloween!



Throw a True Blood Party: An Unofficial Guide to Partying with Your Favorite Vamps
Paula Conway

Published June 13th 2013
Riverdale Avenue Books
 
Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Riverdale Avenue Books through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of My Brief History by Stephen Hawking

I had heard of Stephen Hawking, just the name, but really didn’t know who he was and his remarkable path and contributions until I started watching “The Big Bang Theory”.  See! The “Boob Tube” does have some redeeming qualities!

I didn’t even know his condition is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (aka ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease). He mentions his condition throughout the 75-page.

The book is truly a “brief” history of Stephen Hawking’s life, but encompassing a life lived and full of love, fun, humor, self-deprecation, honesty, determination, genius, bravery, science, questions, answers, accomplishments, inspiration, black holes, quantum gravity and the universe.

It’s simply written…for the most part except when he goes off explaining some of his research and theories in depth. I just read through those parts a few times, trying to understand an overview of the subject matter and Hawking does a great job of presenting these highly technical concepts to the general public.

The brilliant thing about Stephen Hawking’s work and life, is that even without this condition he would still have made the contributions he has to the world of science and physics, BUT because of the disease and his public persona, he shows the world how it’s possible to overcome limitations and what seems like insurmountable obstacles and come out the better for it – all the while inspiring others and contributing to both the scientific community as well as the “general public”.

More than once on “The Big Bang Theory”, Howard has done his impression of Stephen Hawking’s electronically produced voice. The fact that the man has been on the show in person, has been mentioned several times, as well as was in one episode playing “Words with Friends” with Sheldon shows us that he has an immeasurable capacity to find the humor in the hand he’s been dealt.

He explains the process he went through and the rewrites he undertook when writing the bestseller, "A Brief History of Time” which presented complex physical concepts, but made them accessible to the general public. I can’t wait to read it!

Even though the book is literally “brief”, it is overflowing with a plethora of a rich, full and amazing life and I pray he continues to contribute and inspire for a long time yet to come…because there is no such hope as time travel.  ;)

 

My Brief History
Stephen Hawking

Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell

Publication Date: September 10, 2013

Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Random House Publishing Group – Bantam Dell through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of What's So Funny?: My Hilarious Life

Tim Conway is one of the funniest people to even grace us with his gifts.

In What's So Funny?: My Hilarious Life we are taken on a short breeze of a ride and learn a bit about Tim’s colorful parents, some outrageous stunts while growing up in Ohio, his stint in the military and enjoy a few stories and anecdotes of his professional career…thus far.

There are a few surprises along the way. For one thing, his real name isn’t Tim… ;)

I was genuinely disappointed because it was so short. I would have no problem reading a 400 page tome written by this man. I know I would be laugh until my sides hurt and I couldn’t keep the tears from rolling down my face.

Personally, I think entire books should be written by the players of wonderful shows and movies some of us have had the privilege to watch and be entertained by and loved. Because unfortunately, a lot of these wonderfully talented people have left this world and we won’t see the likes of them again. It’s a blessing that we have the technology to see them in action on DVDs, Internet Video, and TV stations dedicated to reruns of the unforgettable programs my parents grew up enjoying, and I was able to enjoy in my childhood.

He also only added a few stories and anecdotes about his kids & his wives which I really wanted to know about, but he left them out of the book in deference to their private lives which is commendable.

He’s a memorable character creator, and can throw a line without cracking a smile (although those of us who have ever watched him play off of Harvey Korman know that everyone around him breaks down first), and doesn’t mind playing “second fiddle”.

Even if you aren’t a reader of biographies and auto-biographies, I highly recommend this book to anyone who has ever seen Tim Conway on lovable shows and movies like, “McHales Navy”, “The Carol Burnett Show”, and “The Apple Dumpling Gang” movies.  And for those who haven’t been as fortunate yet – look them up, watch & laugh!

Only then will you know the brilliance that is Tim Conway and want to read about how he got to be the hilarious “straight” man we know & love him to be!



What's So Funny?: My Hilarious Life
Tim Conway, Jane Scovell (With), Carol Burnett (Forward)


Howard Books
Publication Date: October 29, 2013

Disclaimer: This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Howard Books through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Rose Harbor in Bloom – Review

Rose Harbor in Bloom is the first Debbie Macomber book I’ve ever read…I do not know why.  

Even though this is the second book in the series, Ms. Macomber gives us enough of a glimpse into Jo Marie Rose’s background that you can get into the characters and the story right off the bat – even if you haven’t read the first installment. That is not always the case with series books.

The Inn itself is a character. It has its own place in the storyline, I see the entire Rose Harbor Inn as a quiet corner window seat with plenty of light, comfy cushions and warmth – wrapping its arms around you - a place of beauty, contemplation and healing.

I can visualize the characters and their stories as being real – not just characters made up in a piece of fiction. And, even though these characters visit the Inn and their storylines become the main focus of the book that is built around the ongoing story of Jo Marie and the citizens of Cedar Cove, once these characters leave the Inn their stories are well-rounded enough and come to an end at the conclusion of the book so you don’t feel cheated, but their conclusions are also new beginnings and you are invested in these characters enough that you want the book to be longer and branch off and pick up on the storylines so you can see what the future holds for them – hopefully, we’ll get a snippet or 2 in future books.

I am definitely going to find the first book in the series, TheInn at Rose Harbor, as well as make sure other Debbie Macomber cooks are on my “To Look for List” when I’m out & about.

 

Rose Harbor in Bloom by Debbie Macomber

Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine
Publication Date: Aug 13 2013

Disclaimer:This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of Lowcountry Bombshell (A Liz Talbot Mystery, #2)

I was fortunate enough to win a free copy of Susan M. Boyer’s first Liz Talbot Mystery, Lowcountry Boil last year from Goodreads. This year I am a member of NetGalley and have had the privilege of receiving an electronic copy of Ms. Boyer’s latest Liz Talbot Mystery, Lowcountry Bombshell for the specific purpose of reading and reviewing on my Blog, Living Life by the Seat of Your Pants.

These mysteries are like so many others that I have read lately, and have become a favorite distraction of mine. They are light, fun, set in small towns that are full of quirky, and also dangerous characters – a great, short time distraction for all that ails us in our stressful, hectic everyday lives.

In Lowcountry Bombshell, Private Eye Liz Talbot has recently moved back to the North Carolina Island town of her birth, Stella Maris. Her new client is the doppelganger of a certain 1950’s Blond starlet who died too early surrounding mysterious circumstances that to this day still baffle us.

Coming upon the 50^th anniversary of said starlets’ death, Liz’s client, whose life has run a close parallel to the Blond Bombshell – at the beginning we don’t know if it was patented that way or fabricated, hires Liz to “…keep me alive.”

I do like how Ms. Boyer gets right into the flow of the issues – starting with the first chapter – right off the bat. The story is full of twists and turns, touches on crazy family members and unsavory characters, murder, attempted murder, and even a bit of romance and rivalry.

Unlike her counterparts in this genre, such as Janet Evanovich, Lorna Barrett, Joanne Fluke, and even Charlaine Harris (her lesser know characters – Harper Connelly, Lily Bard and Aurora Teagarden), I’m hoping Ms. Boyer presents more scenes and background on the quirky cast of characters of Stella Maris in future books.  

I look forward to reading more of Liz Talbot’s adventures for many years to come!

Lowcountry Bombshell (A Liz Talbot Mystery, #2)

Henery Press
Publication Date: September 3, 2013

Disclaimer:
This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Henery Press through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review: The Lucky Lady Anne of Cleves - Henry's Fouth Wife

I recommend this book to anyone who has a yearning to learn more about the Tudor Dynasty, and this extraordinary woman who, through no fault of her own, took the role and circumstances in which she found herself cast in and made the most of her life.

The Olde English in messages throughout the book were most likely excerpts from actual historical documents combined with the more modern simplistic conversational dialogue throughout the work made it easier to read, understand, process, and enjoy the story.

Sometimes you can get so wrapped up in the language in pieces from this time period and deciphering the meaning of dialogue can be frustrating and discouraging in written works - Shakespeare for instance if you are reading it vs. seeing the plays performed – that you give up or put the piece of work down.

I’m fairly new to learning about the Tudor dynasty history. Apart from watching a few movies over the past few several years, a book or 2, and watching the TV series, “The Tudors”, my knowledge is limited other than the basics that practically everyone knows about Henry XIII, his wives, how he “disposed” of them, the religious struggles, his children and basics of the Tudor dynasty.

The book portrays the growth of Anne as a simple and naive, yet intelligent young lady, who due to circumstances beyond her control, took the conditions in which she found herself in and with grace, humility and dignity – strived in the uncertain times and situation.

Even though she lived a short time and was The Queen of England for what seems like a split-second, compared to the fates of Henry VIII’s other wives, I would conclude that Lady Anne of Cleves, was indeed, the luckiest of them all.

 

The Lucky Lady Anne of Cleves - Henry's Fouth Wife

 

David Lawrence-Young
GMTA (Great Minds Think Aloud) Publishers
Published April 2013
Disclaimer:
This book was provided to reviewer from the author directly after a request for another book through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review of Marilyn: Norma Jeane

I am so happy that I was able have the opportunity to read and review this electronic version of the 1988 book. I will definitely take a look at the original publication to view all the photos more closely.

I’m fairly new to requesting, reading and reviewing books from NetGalley that I almost missed this one! I didn’t realize until last week that I’m only allotted less than 2 months to read these books that the publishers so graciously trust me with before they go “Poof” from my Nook.

It’s a good thing that it’s a fairly short book and I was able to read it in its entirety today.

Gloria Steinem has compiled a compelling overview of the life of Marilyn Monroe (and Norma Jeane) that is part biography, part psychological profile, part picture book, part history, part feminist study, part speculation – all wrapped around very natural pictures of Marilyn Monroe, not long before her death in August 1962.

It cleverly seesaws back and forth between Norma Jeane and her ascent to become, and be, Marilyn Monroe. Filled with quotes from Marilyn herself, along with historical facts, hearsay, and other nuggets depicted in other publications – we are able to see her sparkling star power – an effervescence that from all accounts shines through.

 She was a gentle spirit, craving love and stability – a little girl lost who unfortunately didn’t find her way in time. She constantly craved a solid, steady mother-figure in the women she surrounded herself with and a father-figure in the men who she met, loved, and married. But the isolation, loneliness, and neediness of this child-woman caught up with her and she was taken away too soon.

It’s uncanny to me reading this, the little tidbits Marilyn Monroe/Norma Jeane and I have in common.

• We both have a physical body developed too fast.
• I share her eagerness to read, learn and grow.
• One of her heroes was Abraham Lincoln. She wrote an essay and I wrote a book report – both in Junior High.

“With enough self-knowledge to recognize her own behavior, but not enough self-confidence to change it,” Ms. Steinem writes before quoting Marilyn herself (pg. 110). WOW! I can relate to that!

Steinem writes pieces about Norma Jeane, about Marilyn and then as many of the information throughout the book suggests – as both halves of the same person intermingled and one fighting the other that always seems to be fighting to be kept at bay.

Her insecurities are always there – I can tell from what I do know and what I’ve read in this book that she was in a constant struggle to keep the demons of her past out of her head, her need and constant craving to be loved and wanted, her thirst for knowledge and not to be seen as she was in many of her movies as the sexpot, dumb blonde.

Just when I was wondering what would have happened, had she lived longer and not died in such a theatrical way with all the mystery, conspiracy theories and speculation surrounding her untimely demise, I go a few pages further and that’s what the last chapter is about (although it was originally published in the late-80s when she’d be in her 60s).

Would she have made it as an aging actress at a time when aging actresses weren’t revered and their talents weren’t acknowledged as they are more today?

Would she have been able to make it in more serious roles, or as a character actress?

Would she still be a legend or would Marilyn Monroe just fade into the darkness and been a has-been?

We’ll never know. So, we’re left with the films and pictures of this pretty brunette, who became a platinum blonde icon with her sexy walk and husky voice – forever implanted in our minds.

I’ve only seen, “The Seven Year Itch” and “Some Like It Hot” – I will be expanding on that list and I look forward to reading more on Marilyn/Norma Jeane. Thanks for the glimpse Ms. Steinem!

 

Marilyn: Norma Jeane

By Gloria Steinem
Photographs by George Barris

Open Road Integrated Media
Published March 2013
Original Publication 1988

Disclaimer:
This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Open Road Integrated Media through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review: Fine Cooking Comfort Food: 200 Delicious Recipes for Soul-Warming Meals

I love to cook comfort food. I think that is my "Genre" when I cook. My cooking personality is right in line with my Zodiac sign - Taurus.

I crave comfort, security and stability (although I've given up on this in the career sector of my life because if I didn't I would have gone completely crazy by now).

But getting back to the subject at hand...

Fine Cooking Comfort Food by Fine Cooking Magazine is a book that has an abundance of classic comfort good recipes (Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, pg. 48; Turkey Noodle Casserole, pg. 91; and Classic Scalloped Potatoes, pg. 208), basic cooking tips & secrets (How to Make the Perfect Omelet, pg. 163; How to Ice a Cake, pg. 231), as well as twists on the "standards" (Apple Crisp with Pecans and Orange, pg. 233; Turkey Soup with Dill, Parsley and Chive Dumplings; and Braised Beef Short Ribs with Salsa Verde and Feta, pg. 120).

When I thought of the perfect comfort pasta dish, I turned to the first page of the section and what did I find...Baked Macaroni & Cheese! I made it, shared it and it's was a hit so I'll be making again and again! Then, the next 4 recipes consist of variations on the classic - Pulled-Pork Macaroni & Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Four Cheeses, pg. 78; Tex-Mex Macaroni & Cheese with Green Chiles, pg. 79; Quick Skillet Mac and Cheese, pg. 80; and Shells with Gorgonzola, pg. 81).

Even in an electronic format, the bounty of pictures portrayed the simple, colorful, crisp elegance of comfort food - making your mouth water and your tummy growl.

I think this is a great first cookbook! I'm looking forward to making a purchase and giving it as a housewarming gift for the next friend's kid or one of my cousins who moves into their first "grown-up" pad -  there are 17 of us on one side ages 23 - 46, plus my cousins' kids who range from 1 month to 23!

I make my own Cream of Broccoli Soup, and of course I forget to write it down so it never comes out the same way twice! The last few times it hasn't been as good as previous attempts. So, I'm looking forward to trying the Broccoli Soup with Bacon, pg. 10 recipe from this book.

Even though it's April and I live in SoCal, it's still a little chilly at night, so I'll be making "Classic Grilled Cheese" (pg. 186), and paring it with, what else, but "Classic Tomato Soup" (pg. 4)!

 

Fine Cooking Comfort Food: 200 Delicious Recipes for Soul-Warming Meals

Fine Cooking Magazine

The Taunton Press, Inc.
Publication Date: Nov 8 2011

Disclaimer:
This book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, The Taunton Press, Inc., through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.

Review: The Spark: A Mother's Story of Nurturing Genius

Review:
The Spark: A Mother's Story of Nurturing Genius by Kristine Barnett

I don’t have children, but I think Kristine Barnett has the right idea – nurture a child’s excellence in any area they gravitate to.

A big part of nurturing is being aware of the talents a child possesses and also keeping a conscientious eye out for talents because they are not always prevalent and out in the open.

 

I know there are certain standards that the public education system has to adhere to, and with not enough teachers and overcrowding in classrooms – it’s hard for a teacher to have the capacity to really see each student as an individual and to find that one thing about each child that makes you think, “There it is!” and then to be able to nurture it. It’s even more difficult when that child appears to be stuck in their own little world as often seems the case with autism.

This is where we, as parents, friends, relatives, clergy, and all other adults who work with and interact with children – even if it’s not on a fairly regular basis have to take a stand. It’s our responsibility to nurture children and to guide them, to help them build confidence instead of pointing out what is wrong or lacking, or what a child cannot do or is struggling with and to instead, help them grow and nurture areas where they excel.

Midway through the chapter, A Chance to Play, there was a story of one of the girls that Kristine had in her daycare and her Dad was having a very hard time – Kristine’s solution was to tell him to take care of his senses. She told him on his way home to buy a chicken, along with rosemary and sage, wrap himself in a warm blanket, put on music he loves and look at a family album – he needed to reconnect with his senses. It made me cry. It was also funny at the time I was reading it because all I could smell was skunk…I figured our neighborhood skunk gave a hearty spray recently.

I had just made chicken soup a few days ago and the warmth and the comfort of sitting on my couch, wrapped in my blanket and reading this incredible story by this caring and nurturing woman – these stories of the love and giving of herself to her children and her community – just made me warm all over and filled me up so much that it came out in tears because it had nowhere else to go. 

The overall values of the book are – play, be of service to others, let children help and do simple chores even at a young age, be open to see a child’s talents and nurture them!

Along with running a daycare, Kristine created an early evening program for local kids with autism called Little Light. That led to the creation of Youth Sports for Autism and eventually, Jacob’s Place.

One of the ways Jake is able to be social and at ease with people despite his autism is by playing sports, by playing sports, these incredible children worked at, “prioritizing friendship, social interaction, community, teamwork, and self-esteem.”

This story is a family’s story – of the struggle of having an autistic child…and in turn, a genius to boot!

But, it’s not just Jacob’s story, but the story of the Barnett family as a unit, and a mother’s wish to be able to communicate with her child. She adds a little salting of her family history and the grounding in that family’s faith and charity that formed her and her husband into the giving, loving, and selfless people who strive to help others and in the end, help themselves and their family.

Because of this and taking some chances that would seem to some unorthodox, Kristine and Mike Barnett made choices and followed the true path of Jake’s potential in math and physics to go to college at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, at the age of eleven!

The intermingling of stories and examples throughout the book added to its brilliancy. It is refreshing to find examples of not just the author’s children and family, but of other families that helped keep the book well-rounded and helped fully tell this triumphant story.

I highly recommend The Spark: A Mother's Story of Nurturing Genius by Kristine Barnett to all adults who have children in their lives, their own or others – who will benefit from this inspirational story of overcoming obstacles and discovering that magic, even in adversity is possible.

The Spark: A Mother's Story of Nurturing Genius by Kristine Barnett

Random House Publishing Group
Publication Date: Apr 9 2013

 

Disclaimer:
Pre-publication of the book was provided to reviewer from the publisher, Random House Publishing Group, through NetGalley for the sole purpose of reading and review.