Effed Up! Story of a Family ~ Russ Woody

Effed Up! Story of a Family by Russ Woody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Effed up! Story of a Family by Russ Woody is an amazingly hilarious novel about a more than dysfunctional family. Woody characters in this novel are so well defined and as the reader you will relate to each and every character at some point in the story.

Effed Up focuses on Robert's life and how he interacts with his crazy family. He has a mother who is me me me and goes off on everyone at the drop of a dime. His brother is an old want to be rock star with a drug and drinking problem. And his sister an alcoholic Christian who doesn't think she has a drinking problem.

Woody takes all of these characters and gives the reader one heck of an adventure. Take a chance to discover that happens ti Robert as he is the only one in the family that seems somewhat normal.

Family means everything to him and it's hard being in a family that only thinks and acts for themselves. The novel is short, sweet and to the point. I cannot wait to read more of Woody's work.

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This book may be purchased via the below links at Amazon or Barnes & Noble:

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The Complete Guide to Writing a Successful Screenplay ~ Melissa Samaroo

The Complete Guide to Writing a Successful Screenplay: Everything You Need to Know to Write and Sell a Winning Script by Melissa Samaroo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"The Complete Guide o Writing a Successful Screenplay: Everything You Need to Know to Write and Sell a Winning Script" by Melissa Samaroo is a 288 page book that reads like a well defined cliff notes instruction manual. It provides writers with the who, what and where to find legitimate resources that will help them create and sell a pretty decent screenplay.

What I loved about this book is it does not just give you a guide on how to write the screenplay but it also provides the reader with history of movies. This guide gives you free resources that allows you to research and see real screenplays of some of the most famous movies out; I used this as a visual guideline for my screenplay.

There is a plethora of solid information presented by Samaroo and it was easy to understand and follow through. Great instructional guide!

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Running Stupid ~ Morris Fenris and Ezra White

Running Stupid by Morris Fenris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Running Stupid by Morris Fenris and Ezra White is a great suspense thriller. It is all based on Matthew Jester's luck. After hitting the lottery big Jester's luck begins to sore. He starts winning everything and everything starts to go his way.

Just like Drake's lyrics in "Started from the Bottom," Jester started from the bottom and then his luck turned for the best. He was known in the world as the luckiest guy. Then one day everything changed and that's where the story picks up. Fenris and White wrote a very comedic suspense thriller in Running Stupid.

When Jester's luck takes a 180 turn for the worst, we (the readers) are treated to a journey of how murders, stealing and killing starts to play in the forefront of Jester's life. On the run, tired and scared Jester tries to put his life back together and deliver vengeance to those who have wronged him.

Quite a joy to read and it's a short novel at 338 pages. Fenris and White great job!

You can purchase this book at Amazon  via the below link, Enjoy!

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Pine Village Co-op Murders ~ Chief John J Mandeville

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Pine Village Co-op Murders by Chief John J Mandeville is a very well written murder mystery novel.  It is reminiscent of Clue.  While reading this novel and delving into the lives of Detective Miguel (Mike) Sanchez and Detective Steven Boyd, the reader becomes surrounded by clues and possible motives.  Chief Mandeville writing style presents the plot of this novel in every day terms so the reader can understand without using too much law enforcement jargon.

This novel has many characters and every last one of them are important to the scheme of things. Tracy, Detective Sanchez’s wife brought a homey feel to the novel.  She was written in to support her husband but also bring a voice of reasoning to the many cases her husband brings home.  It also helps that she is like the queen of neighborhood watch and tends to get in a little trouble herself.  I enjoyed reading this novel and trying desperately to solve the murder mystery.  Chief Mandeville definitely kept me on my toes and wanting to read more into the lives of Detective Sanchez and Detective Boyd.

The Impaler's Revenge ~ Ioana Visan

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. 

The Impaler's Revenge by Ioana Visan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ioana Visan's novel The Impaler's Revenge is quite a twist on the vampire versus human saga. This is not your ordinary Vampire novel as the human's are killing vampires and have sectioned themselves and are ruled by a President and Little Council. Member's of this council and the citizens they protect rule under one law; kill all vampires that dare cross into their town. So why does the President invite an one thousand year old vampire to town?

Visan gives you a strong woman character, Liana, who surrounds herself with friends and coworkers that are looking out for the greater good of the town. Even when corrupt politician and bad vampires threaten their peaceful existence; Lilian and her crew remain vigilant.

The Impaler's Revenge gives the reader background on the struggle between right and wrong. This book sets the series up right and I cannot wait to read book #2.

If you wish to purchase this novel in eBook version please visit the following Amazon link:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CCMWKL6

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Soap Making Made Easy ~ Michelle Gaboya

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. 

"Soap Making Made Easy" - Michelle Gobaya created a work of art and superb instructional guide to creating soap with natural ingredients.  Upon getting this book I thought it would be a cut dry book with steps that would tell me how to make soap.  Michelle not only gives you instructions on how to make soap but also background on different techniques and safety precautions that are needed.  I must stress just as Michelle stressed to those that wish to learn the art of soap making, please please please use caution, pay attention to what you are doing, and do not skip instructions.

"Soap Making: A Quick Guide" - Michelle Gobaya -This quick guide is sort of a cliff note version of the "Soap Making Made Easy." It is designed to get you straight to the precautions and instructions of making soap with natural ingredients.  This book is beginner friendly.

"Soap Recipes" - Michelle Gobaya - This book gives a beginner and even an experienced soap maker a few options of types of soaps to make.  With the step by step instructional guide a novice can become quite fluent in the art of soap making.  This book is truly recipe of different flavors of soap.




These books really inspired me to start creating my own soaps.  I will definitely be posting some of the final products and linking them to this review.

Fellow friends and family what are some your do it yourself projects that have been successful or completely gone way left field?  Leave your answers in my comment section


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Hidden Under Her Heart ~ Rachelle Ayala

Hidden Under Her Heart by Rachelle Ayala
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow Rachelle Ayala came through in her novel "Hidden Under Her Heart." Two young adults both with their on issues and upbringings come together it's either going to be fireworks or a dull sizzle. Hidden Under Her Heart delivers fourth of July fireworks. Maryanne Torres thinks she knows what she wants and needs to attract a good man; one that will not use her. She makes a decision to abstain from sex until the right man comes along and places a ring on the "correct" finger. Lucas Knight, triathlete of mix heritage, has his own demons to fight. Lucas just wants another shot to the Olympics.

Will these two be able to stand the test of times, with rape, possible criminal charges and an abundance of mixed emotions; Ayala spares no punches. This novel reads like a movie, if you are anything like me you will not wish to put it down until well after the epilogue. True to her other novels Ayala delivers a great story of love and two people trying to work through it.

Maryanne and Lucas wish to stay true to themselves and continue advancing toward their goals; but love is a strong feeling and emotion.Will it help or hinder their connection. This novel is only 256 pages so it's a breeze to get through and trust me you will enjoy it.

If you love this you will also love Rachelle Ayala's "Knowing Vera" the third novel in the Chance for Love series.

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For more of Rachelle Ayala’s books and info check out her website and Facebook page:

http://www.rachelleayala.com
http://www.facebook.com/rachelleayalawriter

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Divas Never Flinch ~ Jon McDonald

Divas Never Flinch by Jon McDonald
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Divas Never Flinch by Jon McDonald is a very interesting novel mostly based on two socialites Donors and Connye. At first glance I like a few others thought this novel would be about women in their mid-twenties to mid-thirties; but surprisingly the two women are close to fifty. Although the story line starts off pretty slow it picks up after a few charters. These ladies prove that being older does not mean the fun ends. Their antics and ability to always get in some kind of trouble makes this novel a joy to read. McDonald provides a writing style that simply flows and allows the reader to take a ride with the characters presented. I would definitely recommend this novel to friends and followers.

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Undead: Ten Tales of Zombies ~ Rayne Hall

Undead: Ten Tales of Zombies by Rayne Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow this compilation of zombie novels was amazing. The short stories provide a wide variance of types of zombies. Who Knew! Before reading the ten stories in this novel I thought I was a zombie aficionado and expert, but Undead pushes the imagination further into science fiction. Who knew zombies had feelings "Immunity" by Jeff Strand puts that little nugget into the reader's mind and explores zombies from their point of view. Excellent story by the way. Another great story, "ANOTHER OLDIE BUT GOODIE" by Paul D. Dail, elderly people amaze me. This one is based in a retirement home; gives a new meaning to old love and memories. One of my favorite stories in this novel was "Feeding Frenzy" by Matt Hults, where we are reminded what looks good on the outside may not be good for you on the inside. All the short stories enclosed in this novel bring a brand new vision to the term "Zombie" and some stories as the reader I wished never ended.

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Married to Madness ~ Devin Shane

Married to Madness by Devin Shane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Devin Shane's brings the pain, dysfunction and love in the novel Married to Madness. This novel was an absolute extreme ride of following a young couples love for each other through the good, bad and truly ugliness of times. Shane gives two strong characters Brandon and Zack a love that runs deep and has always stood the test of times. But reading this novel some of their trials and tribulations test the very thread and every fiber of that bond. Both character's crazy family antics and both characters have demanding jobs a teacher and a novelist. But what truly makes this novel is what they do in their spare time. Guns, violence, raising a family and trying to mentor today's; that's a lot for any couple to handle while trying to stay together and make it work. Married to Madness is an easy read and it was a joy to experience Brandon and Zack together. I truly hope Devin Shane continues their story.


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Flash ~ Tim Tigner

Flash by Tim Tigner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tim Tigner’s novel Flash is full of action, suspense, drama and a little romance. Tigner gives new meaning to temporary amnesia and what would you do if you were being conspired against like the two main characters Troy and Emmy. Flash tells the story of Emmy and Troy and the adventures or troubles they endure after losing years of their memory and being blamed for crimes they do not believe they committed. The fast pace of the story line was well appreciated and Tigner did not mince words with some of the gruesome parts of the story. Readers will enjoy this novel because it is a fast read that gives you a full story from beginning to end. Corruption, guns, violence, romance and drugs with a hint of amnesia thrown in; a perfect recipe for a great action/suspense novel.

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Entitlement ~ Mike Worley

Entitlement by Mike Worley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Entitlement: An Angela Masters Detective Novel by Mike Worley brings the Heat. Worley writes this novel like a movie script. It simply flows with mystery, suspense and action. Detective Angi is a powerhouse character, strong woman, good at her job and her hunches are pretty spot on. Worley provides background details at the beginning of the story, which I dearly appreciate. Erica, a young woman has gone missing and Detective Angi is on the case. This novel presents many twists and turns at times you think you know who did it and how, but Worley will throw a monkey wrench in your theory. This book is reminiscent of CSI and Law & Order wrapped up in one. But it is so much more than what you would experience in a 45 minute episode; Worley presents the reader with the whole picture looking at this missing person, a possible crime, all characters thoroughly defined in one novel. Great job Worley excited to see what comes up next.

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Too Much Information ~ David Haskell

Too Much Information by David Haskell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The techno thriller Too Much Information by David Haskell is a fantastic read. Haskell delves into what;s possible if the government and private sector goes to far in protecting their people. After terror attacks on the United States, security is at an all high is there a such thing a too much security and invasion of a person's privacy. Haskell takes the reader on a ride of mystery, drama, and action. The reader will not want to put this book down for fear of missing a critical piece to the puzzle. I was pleasantly pleased in how Haskell was able to use some of today's fears and events in the novel with ease. Too Much Information really makes one think what is being stored about us all and for what purpose.

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Camille ~ Louise Lundberg Claesen

Camille by Louise Lundberg Claesen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Camille by Louise Lindbergh Claesen is an unusual book it took me a few chapters to really get into the novel. Mainly the writing style of Claesen took me awhile to get adjusted to as the a narrative of the story. The plot of the story was superb; the main characters exquisitely explained in detail. A young woman, Camille, trying to find her purpose and way in life and the struggles she faces made for a great story. How Camille deals with current nightmares of her past extremely shapes how she deals with present situations. While this novel is short Claesen does an pretty decent job of getting the reader important character details without wasting words or the reader's time.

Although it took me a while to get into the storyline, once the book picked up I did not want to put it down.

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When Dogs Could Talk ~ David S. Wellhauser

When Dogs Could Talk by David S. Wellhauser
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Dogs Could Talk by David S. Wellhauser is an interesting novel with many complex levels. I found the novel at first to be extremely wordy for lack of better words. It is a like I said before a complex novel, but I must encourage others to stick with it. It took me a couple of chapters to understand Wellhauser’s writing style but as I continued on the plot begins to thicken and the mystery and murders begin to really come together. Wellhauser definitely has a way with words and descriptions of the scenes and characters that are involved in When Dogs Could Talk. Following reporter Charley Harris research and “detective” style of deduction was quite an adventure. Wellhauser does not hold back on detail, I believe that wow factor of “Bam” in your face writing is what makes this novel flow. The grittiness of the novel gives it depth and overall it was a pleasant read.

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Viable ~ R.A. Hakok

viable by R.A. Hakok
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

R.A. Hakok’s novel Viable was an intense book with bits and pieces of mystery, drama, and science fiction. A discovery of a rare blood type with potential to cure many ailments and diseases plaguing society would be great. That is what makes this novel interesting. Going on the journey that intertwines the lives of an up and coming scientists/professor Alison, small town Sheriff and a mysterious man Grant was a great adventure written by Hakok. Although the beginning of the novel dragged a little and was lacking much needed action to thrust it forward; if the reader sticks in for the long hold it pays off. The novel eventually picks up in pace and the puzzle pieces start to come together.

Hakok’s writing style is mixed in the beginning of the novel it seems to be just informational no action; an attempt to get the facts laid down. Towards the middle and end of Viable, Hakok’s writing style is influenced by many elaborate action and discovery scenes. The reader gets a better understanding of the main characters (Professor and Sheriff). Overall this was a pretty decent read. Great job Hakok.

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Knowing Vera ~ Rachelle Ayala

Knowing Vera by Rachelle Ayala
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow Rachelle Ayala’s fiction novel “Knowing Vera” is an amazing piece of work. Knowing Vera brings a mixture of fiction, drama, and mixes it solidly with murder mystery. Ayala gives a strong young woman the drive to focus on discovering the truth in many facets of her life; whether is love, true happiness and in this case finding the truth about her family and the ties to others that she holds dear to her heart. Vera is this young woman and Ayala gives her a voice and thank goodness the common sense and smarts to navigate through life and face past demons to obtain the truth of who the killers are versus who have been wronged in a past murder that has tainted her life so many years ago.

As a reader, I appreciate the simplicity and straightforward structure Ayala displays within this novel. She did not linger on too much background information it inundate readers and bore them; she gave just enough information to keep readers interesting in the storyline. Also, leaving out just enough information to keep the mystery alive.

When you are forced to reevaluate your family, friends and those you have trusted so long to determine “Do I really know this person, will they harm me” you will then know how Vera felt about all the characters placed in her path (Taytay, Zack, Louie, Cliff). Rachelle Ayala produced an amazing dramatic fiction in “Knowing Vera.” This novel is a quick read that will give you its worth in suspense, drama and romance.

For more of Rachelle Ayala’s books and info check out her website and Facebook page:

http://www.rachelleayala.com
http://www.facebook.com/rachelleayala...


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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

The Seduction of Monet Dawson: Confessions of a Military Wife ~ E. Clay

The Seduction of Monet Dawson: Confessions of a Military Wife by E. Clay
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Wow, The Seduction of Monet Dawson – Confessions of a Military Wife by E. Clay was a roller coaster ride of emotions and feelings. This book truths are so expertly woven into the novel that you cannot tell what is truth versus what is fiction. Clay puts out his life’s story in a way that makes you want to keep reading. When he introduces you to Monet you sympathize with her being an army wife; but you also feel slightly torn that she is overall cheating on her husband. Technically she is still married. Clay has a great talent at telling a story at times as the reader I forgot that I was reading, it was like a movie of words so to say. The personal touch drew me in to the story line. The pictures of the actual characters in this novel were a nice touch. Usually writers let the reader envision characters via imagination. Clay put a spin on this story by including all the details of his life.

It was quite refreshing getting a male’s perspective on relationships in the military life. The Seduction of Monet Dawson is quite riveting and a fast read. The Seduction of Monet Dawson: Confessions of a Military Wife by E. Clay is on Brittany's read shelf. Brittany gave this book 3 stars

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Counterpoint ~ Daniel Rafferty

CounterPoint by Daniel Rafferty
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The novel Counterpoint by Daniel Rafferty is like a biblical science fiction novel with paranormal pieces intertwined into it. Humans, Angels, and Demons all play an equally huge part in the destruction of the world and what they are calling the "Human Project." Rafferty gives a great alternative view of how Earth works. The beginning of the novel was slightly slow and did not give enough background information on key characters. But I pushed through around about chapter four or five, I was able to get the gist of the key players. The Bassett family (humans) are really strong despite their outer appearance. Rafferty's character development improves exponentially after a few chapters in, you really have to stick with reading the novel; it all comes together eventually.

Daniel Rafferty sure put an unique spin on the battle of good and evil. Anyone who knows the stories of the Bible, world events and Greek lore will enjoy this novel and appreciate the references it entails. I hope this is a series book, I can envision this story line continuing for more novels to come. Great job Rafferty. CounterPoint by Daniel Rafferty is on Brittany's read shelf. Brittany gave this book 4 stars

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The Fifth Shadow ~ Matthew Thomas

The Fifth Shadow: Addiction/First Time Experience of Sex and Instant Addiction to It. by Matthew Thomas
My rating: 3 of 5 stars


The Fifth Shadow by Matthew Thomas was a short interesting read with a slight erotic insight to a young man's journey into adulthood and sex. Thomas character development was quite thorough. Young Mike does not know what he is getting himself into relationship wise. He seemingly has his upbringing and morals tested by his gorgeous boss constantly at his job. Thomas gives it to the reader fast and straight.

I appreciate the way he wrote this novel, there was no lingering around with cluttered back story mumbo jumbo; but he still inserted past events and stories that help mold and shape the main characters for the reader. As I stated before The Fifth Shadow is a pretty fast read with enough drama and erotic action in it to keep the story movie without being filthy. Great job Matthew Thomas I am sensing a part II to this short novel. The Fifth Shadow: Addiction/First Time Experience of Sex and Instant Addiction to It. by Matthew Thomas is on Brittany's read shelf. Brittany gave this book 3 stars

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Consequences: Betrayal. Sacrifice. Passion ~ Martha Kennerson

Consequences by Martha Kennerson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! Consequences: Betrayal. Sacrifice. Passion by Martha Kennerson is a well-written novel. This novel’s title explains it all. The emotions and believability Kennerson bestowed in Kristine’s character moved me. It was as if I were one of Kristine’s closest friends experiencing it all: the happy times and the not so happy times. The novel Consequences tells the story of young Kristine’s life. A young privileged woman with nothing but good things professed in her future, Kristine for lack of better had the “good life.” As the saying goes “All Good things must come to an end,” tragedy strikes young Kristines life. Kennerson takes us, the readers, on a journey on how Kristine deals with the struggles of life. She learns about herself and she learns on whose shoulder she can lean on. This is a great coming of age story; growing up fast and taking full responsibility for one’s self.



Consequences: Betrayal. Sacrifice. Passion was a great read. The tight friendships Kennerson displayed within this novel gives hope to those who may be struggling through tough times. Yes, this novel was an emotional rollercoaster; but so is life. Great job Kennerson great job.

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Secrets of the Apple ~ Paula Hiatt

Secrets of the Apple by Paula Hiatt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A slow, drama filled, romantic story of two lives coming together. Paula Hiatt is a true poet, meaning she put words to motion in this novel and produced a really great story. Secrets of the Apple transcends two races and two cultures. It is like that perfect cup of coffee, separately the ingredients are subpar but mixed together in a precise timely fashion it makes the perfect blend; the perfect cup. This novel follows the business adventures of Ryoki esteemed, wealthy and attractive business man and Kate, the attractive American assistant. The two backgrounds are deeply intertwined from youth but can they overcome their differences culturally?

Hiatt plays the story out in a series of events that span multiple countries and languages. It is a breath of fresh air to read basically the adventures of Kate and see Ryoki not take life and those around him so seriously. He is a young successful man and Kate might be the right person to loosen him up. Both characters have shared their respective bad relationships that have harden them and stopped them from truly loving another. Hiatt places the reader on a rollercoaster ride of adventures and emotions in this novel.

Secrets of the Apple is a quick romantic read and easy to follow. Hiatt definitely produced a good book and I cannot wait to read more of her work.

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Launched ~ Victor Rappoport

Launched by Victor Rappoport
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Victor Rappoport delivers quite a punch in the novel Launched. Never have a read a novel with a plot so thick and delivers so much action without losing itself in the mayhem of blowing stuff up and killing everybody. Rappoport lays down the foundation with a finesse that I, as the reader, never expected that he was just setting us up for the punch line. The main characters in this novel, Trishka and Mason, were well thought out and well placed. Trishka is displayed as a woman from Russia running away from the bad guys (Vladmir and Yuri). Trishka is not a soft, woe-is- me type of lady, she is a fighter and her struggles she bears from the beginning to end makes this novel a great read in itself. Mason, an agent and in some circles the good guy, does what he cans to help right many wrongs. The two characters together display a world wind of adventures, losts, loves, and when mixed perfectly by Rappoport made a very exciting story.

Launched is an action fiction novel with lots a suspense, drama and a little romance. Victor Rappoport did an amazing job and I cannot wait to pick up another one of his novels.

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Eagle: Birds of Flight ~ J.M. Erickson

Eagle: Birds of Flight - Book Three by J.M. Erickson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

J.M. Erickson never disappoints me. Erickson's novels are always filled with action and great characters that you just pull for and hope that everything will turn out right in what is sure be a very messed up situation. Erickson wrote yet another amazing action novel. We pick up with Burns and the team and of course Emma and Becky. This book flawlessly picks up where book 2 Raven leaves off. Emma has grown a little bit and we discover more about her background. This book answers quite a few questions, Erickson gives hints into the lives of the operatives that are helping keep Emma and the family safe as well as a little more insight into Burn's character. While we delve into why all of these people have been brought together to bring down corrupt agents we see that no matter how hard and trained they are; they're still people and emotions can run high in stressful situations. I do not want to give away the plot of this book as it is too good to spoil for potential readers. Needless to say you will not be disappointed and it will leave you asking for more.

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The Beat on Ruby's Street ~ Jenna Zark

The Beat on Ruby's Street by Jenna Zark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Beat on Ruby's Street was an interesting novel about a young girl in that "tween" stage of life. Ruby is a rebel with a cause and poetic soul. I think she thinks she is misunderstood throughout the novel by her peers, parents and other adult figures. But this is the view of a child. Zark keeps true to this period peace, when protests of war are high and the arts (poetry and painting) are taboo. In The Beat on Ruby's street we follow young Ruby through many acts of childhood rebelliousness. Everything Ruby does is for "the cause." At times I thought Ruby was being way disrespectful, but Zark reminds us of the time period and gives up parental clues of who raised Ruby. Ruby is a product of the streets and not meaning this in a harsh or bad way. She was well cared for by her parents but not in a way that the majority of society would approve, but she was not from a bad home. In my opinion this book shows that it does take a village to raise a child who could think for herself and fight for what she truly believed in.

Zark gives us a view from a child's perspective but this is no childish book. I appreciate the way she makes the novel flow and tells the story as if it were a movie or play in front of our eyes. This could easily be turned into a Ruby series and I hope Zark continues to write with such feeling and abandonment. I really dug this novel and look forward to reading many more by Jenna Zark.

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Broken by the Dark: An Edge of Your Seat Murder Mystery ~ Dennis Lively

Broken by the Dark: An Edge of Your Seat Murder Mystery by Dennis Lively
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dennis Lively produces a great action filled suspenseful mystery novel in Broken by the Dark. His ability to give you every bit of detailed and background information in as little words as possible was well appreciated. A quick synopsis, the main character is Jason, a man blinded during childhood who turns out to be a very good detective. Jason solves crimes for a living, he was blinded as a child by a man infatuated with his mother. Jason does not let "blindness" take over his life, he has learn to live it and has become a very successful detective. A series of crimes strike the town that start to bring back troubling memories from Jason's past. This novel tells the story of how Jason gets through the nightmares and handles some of the worst crimes against humanity.

Dennis Lively, plot and character development is amazing in the mystery novel. Yes there is small portion of romance but it does not overshadow the main plot, the mystery. Lively's writing style is simple yet his story really flows like a novel. It is written as if this is only a small portion of Jason's life. Lively could really make a long series with Jason as the main character.

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One World United ~ Jean Stanberry

One World United by Jean Marie Stanberry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jean Stanberry's novel One World you United is an amazing read about life living under total government rule after the third World War. It follow for the most four main characters: Sion, Santiago, Helena and Athens. As the world tries to get better from the war, geniuses have brainwashed it's citizens into thinking the government knows best. Sounds familiar, huh? Stanberry takes us on a journey of how these four characters are brought up being trained by the government and only taking the liberty at which the government provides. None of the four are taught to think for themselves, everything from what they study at school, to marriage, to even when they are able to produce a baby are decided for them. Well we all know this will only last for so long before people (no matter how genetically engineered), begin to learn the truth.

Reading One World United, was a great eye-opener to how too much control to one party can essentially not make life better but worse. I quite enjoyed Stanberry's novel and look forward to reading more novels like this.

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At Her Beck and Call ~ Mistress Benay

At Her Beck and Call: A Pictorial Journal of Female Domination and Male Servitude by Mistress Benay
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

At Her Beck and Call is quite an "out of the box" novel based on the dominatrix lifestyle. Mistress Benay spares no feelings and brings out all of the toys, friends, and female dominatrix rules and regulations. Overall the storyline is pretty consistent with Benay searching for a slave and finding one to suit her acquired needs. The book is not my cup of tea but I did read it in it's entirety. The topic was not the problem just some of the ideas behind Domme and Slave were just a little too graphic for me. Overall Benay sheds quite a bit of light on the side of being a female dominatrix. The novel was expressive of her adventure and love and is quite a fast read,

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No Place for Love in Los Angeles ~ Wes Martin and John Bedierman

No place for love in Los Angeles by Wes Martin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

No Place for Love in Los Angeles is roller coaster ride of emotional foolishness (in a good way). William is trying to find the love of his life Jenny; a love who voluntarily left him for the limelight and fame of Los Angeles. Martin paints a vivid picture of William trying to regain his ex Jenny's attention and renew the love and affections that they once had and shared. But Jenny is not the sweet Jenny from the mid-west that Will once knew and love. Will is finding this out the hard way.

Crime, Sex, Attitudes, Actors and more Wes Martin throws all the punches and leaves nothing out of this short novel. Martin brings the reader in by sending William on chase for Jenny. The title of this novel makes sense when crime comes into play there is no place for love in los angeles. I am not quite sure what genre to place this novel in because it is packed with comedy, action, drama and a smidget of romance. It was a great short read and did not deviate from the plot. Great job Wes Martin.

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Sanctuary In Steel ~ Bryan Cassiday

Sanctuary in Steel by Bryan Cassiday
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sanctuary of Steel is a paranormal science fiction novel involving the war against zombies while trapped in Alcatraz. I thought it was quite clever of Bryan Cassiday to set this novel in the impenetrable prison that once held famous prisoners; Alcatraz. No can get out and no one can get in at least that was the thought pattern. Cassiday gives the reader plenty of action. Main characters Victoria and Halverson make quite the team, and CIA agent posing as a reporter and a dress boutique owner. Both basically kick butt and take names while picking up some stragglers along the way.

What makes this novel a decent read is the way Cassidy sets up the plot of the story. Yes zombies, undead, the infected are roaming the coasts of California but what will the unaffected do? What will happen once they reach Alcatraz. All does not appear to be what it seems and Cassidy keeps the reader interested by throwing surprising tidbits of information here and there that help the main characters attempt to survive.

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Egocentric Predicament ~ Roddy J Dryer

The Egocentric Predicament by Roddy J. Dryer
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This novel was very disturbing, but I believe that was Dryer's plot all along. The Egocentric Predicament is mostly about human trafficking, which is still very prevalent today. Dryer really really (I cannot stress this enough) described in detail how twisted a tormented soul can really be and how power and control can exacerbate social issues in an already struggling country. ]

For about seventy-five percent of the story line Dryer made complete since. Although I thought the extreme descriptions of how the children were being raped was a bit much, it fit the plot of the human trafficking plot. The last twenty-five percent of the story was something out of a science fiction movie. It did not fit the story, it was if Dryer put two novels together towards the end to make the heroes and villains attack. I wished it would have ended in a more sensible (as it can be) way.

Egocentric Predicament has a good number of grammatical errors, but fortunately it does not change the meaning of the story. The reader can overlook the errors, but really should not have to. It was a struggle to get through this book due to its topic, however it is a good novel. Dryer has a way with words that makes you feel as though you are right there with those tormented children, with the Spencer while searching for his and right in the midst of the war.

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Promise Cove ~ Vickie McKeehan

Promise Cove by Vickie McKeehan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Promise Cove by Vickie Mckeehan is an absolutely wonderful novel. Mckeehan catches the essence of a romantic novel quite well in this story. This story line is so relevant today with so many of our heroes, our soldiers fighting for us and not returning back home. Mckeehan gives us just a glimpse on what happens when war strikes, a young family is separated, and a new family is formed and bonded by the tragedies of the past.

The main characters Nick and Jordan are so well developed in this novel. I was so glad that Mckeehan, made Jordan’s character a strong woman. That in its self was inspirational to me. Jordan did what she needed to do to keep her and her little girl safe and well cared for; she did not stop “living” and that is the important part of this story-line. Nick with all of his guilt and pain still remained gentle toward the widow and her child; he was the epitome of a true gentleman and friend.

Mckeehan story telling through this romance novel is impeccable. The plot just flows and it was extremely hard to put this novel down. I am looking forward to reading more of her work in this series.

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Shop Local ~ Heid Butzine

Shop Local: A Practical Pain-Free Guide to Shopping with Purpose by Heidi Butzine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shop Local by Heidi Butzine is quite enlightening short read that this very informative in regards to shopping local and feeding money directly back into the community. Shop Local opens my eyes and hopefully others in why it is important to shop local. Not only does Butzine give us the reasoning for shopping local, she also provides statistics to back up her claim on how shopping local directly affects the community in which we live. No she does go hard on big corporations throughout the book but this only reinforces her points on the benefits of shopping local. As Heidi implies we need to really support our community, by doing so we support our immediate economy as well.

Shop Local is not only full of statistics it has a lot of nice graphics, charts and pull outs sporadically placed in some of its chapters. I believe this helped move the information along; when Butzine made reading for lack of better words interactive. As I will not implement all of her recommendations I am quite thankful that she laid quite a few instructions on how to shop local while not breaking the bank to do so.

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Secrets of a Spiritual Guru: Real Estate, Yoga & Lies ~ Tamara Lee Dorris

Secrets of a Spiritual Guru: Real Estate, Yoga & Lies by Tamara Lee Dorris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secrets of a Spiritual Guru is a light-hearted novel extremely well-written by Tamara Davis. Melissa is absolutely a darling. She represents a good majority of young women today. We are all trying to make it in this tough economy, we all have or troubles whether it be drinking, weight problem or spousal issues.

Davis simply brought life to the character, Melissa. Through all of her seemingly flaws she happened to be good at giving advise. Although how that came to fruition is quite comical (read the book for details) I thought it was quite fitting for Melissa to learn throughout her real estate, yoga and blogger experience.
I am excited that Tamara Davis will keep writing in this series. I cannot wait for the next book.


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Casualties of War ~ Bennett R. Coles

Casualties of War by Bennett R. Coles
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Casualties of War was a decent read. This science fiction novel is based on military relations on space warfare. At times this novel proved to be a challenging slow read, but when the action and deception kicked in Coles really delivered. During these times of war Coles gives us (the readers) great insight into the main character's psyche. Reading and essentially feeling the emotions and struggles that each veteran goes through day to to day puts this novel in perspective despite it be acted out in space. Katja Emmes and Kete Moro are among my favorite characters in this particular novel. Coles made them both so well defined you could understand why Katja fought so hard the way she did and wanted to be and upstanding Astral Elite officer but her struggle to handle after war combat stayed a constant battle. Bennet Coles novel was pretty good novel and a pleasant read at that.

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Split at the Root: A Memoir of Love and Lost Identity ~ Catana Tully

Split at the Root: A Memoir of Love and Lost Identity by Catana Tully
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Catana Tully's amazing novel "Split at the Root" caught me completely by surprise. I must admit my expectations prior to reading this novel were simple; it would be a race relations book. Split at the Root is so much more than just race. This memoir gives a full circle view on topics of mixed race, multiculturalism, family dis-functionality and much more. Tully provides a very detail account of her life from childhood straight through adulthood. The reader will appreciate Tully's thorough explanation of why she was a confused "German" kid who did not consider herself black. The relationship Tully had with both of her mother's in itself was touching but lead myself and mostly other readers into Tully's psyche, and truly explains her thought process. Split at the Root gives another dimension another insight to how race is perceived from someone who is multiracial. I quite enjoyed this book and the look into Catana Tully's life.

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Life is Full of Sweet Spots ~ Mary O' Connor

Mary O' Connor book Life is Full of Sweet Spots: An Exploration of Joy is positively just that a book of joy. I did not know what to expect upon first glance of this book. I was expecting to read short stories of dullness and mediocre scenarios. I was so surprised and so glad that O' Connor proved me wrong. This book takes what I and many people take for granted; nature. Nature is all around and us and if we just stand still and observe - look, listen and feel we will understand the joy that O' Connor's interviewers experienced. Life is definitely full of sweet spots as O' Connor expresses over and over in this book. What I found and you as a reader will find, is though I am not a nature person as I read this book and got deeper and deeper into the text I wanted to find that same peace and calmness that many of the stories evoked. I wanted to be able to swim with the dolphins, go fly fishing, go to a beautiful forest and be one with nature. Mary O' Connor and all of her interviewed guests place a sense of calmness on your reading spirit to want to have that centered, one with nature type of life.

The House of Tomorrow ~ Adair Arlen

The House of Tomorrow by Adair Arlen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The House of Tomorrow was an amazing read. Arlen made this novel read like a soap opera to me. There is drama, romance, suspense and plenty of twists and turns to make me (the reader) continuously stay interested. The main characters Paul Gregory and Liliane Greening were constructed with such care at times I found myself reading the novel anticipating what would happen next.

I am a sucker for a good love story, but Arlen had me on a suspenseful romantic roller coaster ride. Not to give anything away about this story, because it should be read in its entirety, Arlen ability to give some many details to her characters that you could visualize them as if watching a movie instead of just reading words on a page.

I am now a fan of Arlen’s work and look forward to reading more books like The House of Tomorrow in the near future.


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A Bullet For Two ~ Robert Strzalko

A Bullet for Two by Robert Strzalko
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A Bullet for Two was unexpectedly good. The history that was given from Jeb's perspective of the war and Lincoln presidency. This novel was definitely a period piece. Jeb and Summer's relationship as strange as it was it worked. The reader gets a real since of how Strzalko stressed on the main characters to do the right thing in such adversity, with the people literally hunting them. The chase that Strzalko put in this book really carries the novel along. The reader gets so wrapped up in close calls and will Jeb and Summer make it, that you do not realize you are at the end of the novel. Strzalko did an excellent job telling this story in the time set right after the War.

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You and Tequila ~ Crystal Donahue

You and Tequila by Crystal Donahue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"You and Tequila" is quite a read. I absolutely loved this quirky romance novel by Crystal Donahue. The two main characters Cassel and Will were perfect. Riding the roller coaster that is called Loved and be Damned was great. Donahue really captured the spirit of friends taking that leap of faith and moving their relationship forward to new destinations. She was able to depict the worries that friends have when they want to not necessarily stop the friendship but explore being more than friends.

I absolutely loved that Donahue chose the main female characters name to be Cassal, it is so unique just like the character. Cassal has a real hardworking job but does not let that rule her; she still has a social life. It's like what every woman aspires to have; in balance of course. We've all experienced a bad break up and then a new candidate comes along while that ex is still lingering in the background.

Oh how I wish there was a sequel to this book. Great job Crystal Donahue, great job!

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The Bones of Others ~ Vickie McKeehan

The Bones of Others by Vickie McKeehan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Bones of Others took me completely by surprise. The subject of pedophiles and children is always touchy and wrenches the heart muscles. McKeehan crafted a really good novel exploring how a victim becomes the heroine. Skye's journey and strength in this novel fueled me to continue to read on, being a victim of such violence at a young age and then turning that experience in her life to a fuel source to help others is nothing short of remarkable. This novel not only had a drama it also had a little romance. I was thankful for the small breaks in emotion that the romantic story line placed strategically in with the hunt for justice. McKenna, does not make it sappy or something dropped out of a chick literature; but it is slight mention that reminds us that the main character is still woman and human.

McKenna expands a little on native american heritage and has a small sense of paranormal-ism with the Spirit Wolf. The Spirit Wolf was a nice touch to the novel that helped explain Skye's cultural background, which is mentioned throughout the novel. McKenna did a wonderful job, although the novel is a little long I quite enjoyed the read immensely. I cannot wait for the second novel coming out Summer 2013.

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