Tuesday, January 31, 2012

My Hands Came Away Red by Lisa McKay * A Review


ABOUT MY HANDS CAME AWAY RED
Cori signs up to take a mission trip to Indonesia during the summer after her senior year of high school. Inspired by happy visions of building churches and seeing beautiful beaches, she gladly escapes her complicated love life back home. Five weeks after their arrival, a sectarian and religious conflict that has been simmering for years flames to life with deadly results on the nearby island of Ambon. Within days, the church building the team had constructed is in ashes, its pastor and fifty villagers are dead, and the six terrified teenagers are stranded in the mountainous jungle with only the pastor's teenage son to guide them to safety. Ultimately, Cori's emotional quest to rediscover hope proves as arduous as the physical journey home.

Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Moody Publishers (September 1, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0802489826
ASIN: B002PJ4P2S
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 1.2 inches
Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces

ABOUT LISA MCKAY
Lisa still stumbles when people ask her about home. Raised in Australia, Bangladesh, the States, and Zimbabwe, she has also lived in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Croatia. She is currently living in Laos. 

(How she got to Laos is a long story that began with writing letters to someone in Papua New Guinea named Mike and ended in marriage about a year later.)

In Australia, Lisa worked as a forensic psychologist with the police, in a maximum security men's prison, and on a child death review team. In Croatia, Lisa worked with a development organization as a stress management trainer. In Indiana, Lisa earned a masters degree in International Peace Studies at Notre Dame University. In Los Angeles, Lisa directed the Headington Institute's training and education programs, providing psychological and spiritual support services to humanitarian workers around the world. In Laos, while Mike is hard at work for a humanitarian organization, Lisa lies in a hammock by the Mekong River and drinks mango smoothies.

Well, sometimes, anyway. The rest of the time she is writing or working as a consultant. Lisa's first book, my hands came away red, was nominated for a Christy Award. Her essays and articles have appeared in a number of different magazines. She is currently working on her second book.
www.lisamckaywriting.com


MY REVIEW
  This is the first book I’ve read by Lisa McKay and I really loved it. It was just astonishing. I was completely engrossed in My Hands Came Away Red. If I didn’t know better I would have believed this to be a true story. It was so captivating.  
  This book was published in 2007 and the next year it was a Christy Award Finalist. Even though it is an older book it still is of great magnitude and needs to be read.  It makes you think about your cozy little life and you realize so many people are fighting for their faith, for food, shelter and just life.
  My Hands Came Away Red is full of suspense, faith, never giving up attitude, friendship and such realism. It is an unforgettable story.
  I was quite moved by this wonderful novel and wish it didn’t have to end. I really became attached to the characters and they become friends. If a book does that than you know it’s super.
  My Hands Came Away Red is one of my favorites of 2012 and I will be looking for Lisa’s next book to read and review.
 I highly recommend this book and just love it. It will make a wonderful gift for yourself or someone else.
  

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Thank you to Moody Publishers for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 

Friday, January 27, 2012

WINNERS, WINNERS, WINNERS

Go to our three winners of

The Attic in my Yard ebook by Birgit Horvath-Muck
was won by pbclark


 Ellie's Haven by Sharlene MacLaren
was won by ABreading4fun 


A Mile in His Shoes  DVD
was won by kykitty
Hope all of you enjoy these gifts.


Congratulations everyone!
Come back for more giveaways soon!

Abbie Ann by Sharlene MacLaren * A Review


ABOUT ABBIE ANN
Abbie Ann Kane, the youngest of Jacob Kane's three daughters, is a busy woman. Between running the Whatnot, the family's general store, being active in the Women's Christian Temperance Union, and assisting the elderly citizens of Sandy Shores, Michigan, she has little time for frivolous matters. And those include matters of the heart. When the recently divorced Noah Carson comes to town with son Toby in tow to pursue a shipbuilding business, Abbie Ann tries to keep her distance-especially when his flagrant ex-wife shows up. But God has other plans in mind.

Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Whitaker House (April 6, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1603740767
ISBN-13: 978-1603740760
Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 5.3 x 1.4 inches
Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces


ABOUT SHARLENE MACLAREN
Born and raised in west Michigan, Shar attended Spring Arbor University. Upon graduating with an education degree way back in 1971, she traveled internationally for a year with a small singing ensemble, then came home and married one of her childhood friends. Together they raised two lovely, wonderful daughters, both of whom are happily married and enjoying their own families. Retired in 2003 from 31-years of teaching, Shar loves to read, sing in the church choir and worship team, travel, and spend time with her family, in particular, her wonderful, adorable grandchildren, Dylan, Alexis, and Gavin!
A Christian for forty+ years, and a lover of the English language, Shar has always enjoyed dabbling in writing—poetry, fiction, various essays, and freelancing for periodicals and newspapers. Her favored genre, however, has always been romance. She remembers well the short stories she wrote in high school and watching them circulate from girl to girl during government and civics classes. “Psst,” someone would whisper from two rows over, and always with the teacher’s back to the class, “Pass me the next page.”
Shar is a an occasional speaker for her local MOPS organization, is involved in KIDS’ HOPE USA, a mentoring program for at-risk children, counsels young women in the Apples of Gold program, and is active in two weekly Bible studies. She and her husband, Cecil, live in Spring Lake, Michigan with their lazy, fat cat Mocha.


MY REVIEW
  This is the third and last book of the series The Daughters of Jacob Kane. Abbie Ann is quite a lovely, spirited young lady who knows what she wants and how to get it. She doesn’t let other people control her and make her go against what she believes the Lord wants her to do.
  This book has many surprising twist and turns. I was really intrigued by it and like the way when I thought it would make a good ending another thing happened to cause havoc and shook things up.
  One thing happened in this book that I was hoping would happen to the father. He is such a strong, capable man, but still has a very soft side.
  I like how the whole family got together at Christmas and how everyone got along and they each show such love to the others.
  Noah and Abbie Ann met in quite a strange way and I like that, I sometimes get tired of the usual boy meets girl scenes.
  I like how they both surrender to the Lord’s will and give Him complete control of their lives.
  I recommend Abbie Ann and all of the books in the series The Daughters of Jacob Kane. Sweet romances.

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Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Monday, January 23, 2012

My Valentine Story-Giving My Heart to God by Crystal Bowman * A Review


ABOUT MY VALENTINE STORY
Valentines are fun to make and give. They tell people we love them. Who loves all of us? God, of course. 'How can I give God my heart? Loving him is where I'll start.' Through imaginative and innovative product, Zonderkidz is feeding young souls.

Reading level: Ages 2 and up
Board book: 14 pages
Publisher: Zonderkidz (December 12, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0310711630
ISBN-13: 978-0310711636
Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 6.6 x 0.4 inches
Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces


ABOUT CRYSTAL BOWMAN
Crystal Bowman is a best selling author of more than 60 books for kids as well as 3 books for women. She also writes magazine articles and lyrics for children's piano music. She wrote her first poem when she was in the 4th grade. Her teacher told her she would be a poet someday. Her first book of poetry, CRACKS IN THE SIDEWALK, was published in 1993. It has been republished several times and is still in print. She also speaks at schools, churches, and writers' conferences. For more information on Crystal, you can visit her website at www.crystalbowman.com


ABOUT CLAUDINE GEVRY
You can find Claudine diving the oceans with Technicolor fish, camel riding in the Sahara, trekking in a jungle populated with wild monkeys, or exploring the African savanna in search of huge elephants. Although adventurous, she sometimes gets scared when coming upon a giant spider or other scary beasts. At that time she heads back to the comfort of her studio, where she draws all the wonderful things she saw and dreams of her next visit to faraway lands.




MY REVIEW
  I’m so in love with the books written by Crystal Bowman and illustrated by Claudine Gevry. I just love the words, pictures, brilliant colors and the fantastic over-size books.  Since they are board books and are cut in certain shapes they are wonderful, but that’s not the most magnificent thing about this book. What I like most is the way they tell children about the love of the Lord and all of the things the Lord can do for them.
  Here is a quote for Zonderkidz that I love “Through imaginative and innovative products, Zonderkidz is feeding young souls.”
  The whole theme of this book is love for family, friends, things we have, but mostly it tells us of the love God has for us. Also how we can give our hearts to God.
  My Valentine Story talks about loving, sharing, praying, singing, praising and giving to others.
 This is a book that comes highly recommended by me. It is just perfect for your child, grandchild, friend or just for that special child down the street. I think it is a perfect Valentine gift.

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Thank you to Zonderkidz for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Maggie Rose by Sharlene MacLaren * A Review


ABOUT MAGGIE ROSE
A Pursuit of a Calling The year is 1904, and Maggie Rose, the spunky, friendly, twenty-year-old middle daughter of Michigan resident Jacob Kane, feels compelled to leave her beloved hometown of Sandy Shores to pursue what she feels in her heart are God's plans for her life-in New York City. A Heart for the Homeless Maggie Rose adjusts to her new life at Sheltering Arms Refuge, an orphanage that also transports homeless children to towns across the United States to match them with compatible families. Most of the children have painful pasts that make Maggie aghast, but she marvels at their resiliency. As she gets to know each child, her heart blossoms with new depths of love and compassion. An Unexpected Attraction When a newspaper reporter comes to stay at the orphanage in order to gather research for an article, Maggie is struck by his handsome face-and concerned by his lack of faith. She can't deny their mutual affections, though. Will she win the struggle to maintain her focus on God and remain attuned to His guidance?

Paperback: 429 pages
Publisher: Whitaker House; 1 edition (June 8, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1603740759
ISBN-13: 978-1603740753
Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.3 x 1.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 12 ounces


ABOUT SHARLENE MACLAREN
Born and raised in west Michigan, Shar attended Spring Arbor University. Upon graduating with an education degree way back in 1971, she traveled internationally for a year with a small singing ensemble, then came home and married one of her childhood friends. Together they raised two lovely, wonderful daughters, both of whom are happily married and enjoying their own families. Retired in 2003 from 31-years of teaching, Shar loves to read, sing in the church choir and worship team, travel, and spend time with her family, in particular, her wonderful, adorable grandchildren, Dylan, Alexis, and Gavin!
A Christian for forty+ years, and a lover of the English language, Shar has always enjoyed dabbling in writing—poetry, fiction, various essays, and freelancing for periodicals and newspapers. Her favored genre, however, has always been romance. She remembers well the short stories she wrote in high school and watching them circulate from girl to girl during government and civics classes. “Psst,” someone would whisper from two rows over, and always with the teacher’s back to the class, “Pass me the next page.”
Shar is a an occasional speaker for her local MOPS organization, is involved in KIDS’ HOPE USA, a mentoring program for at-risk children, counsels young women in the Apples of Gold program, and is active in two weekly Bible studies. She and her husband, Cecil, live in Spring Lake, Michigan with their lazy, fat cat Mocha.


MY REVIEW
  This is the second book in the Daughters of Jacob Kane series. Maggie Rose is both beautiful inside and out. She is such a kind, compassionate person.
 Maggie Rose is called by God to go far from home to work at an orphanage, from her home in Michigan to New York. While there she meets Luke a hard, sad man, a newspaper reporter. Find out what makes him so hard and sad.
  They both fall in love with the children and the workers at the orphanage and then they even take the children on the orphan train West to find families.
 With this add intrigue, mystery and evil people and you have a story worth reading.
  I love the characters of this book; also you hear more about the characters from book one in this series, Hannah Grace. You will see what happened with Maggie’s family and how they keep moving ahead.
  You will read about some of the things orphans had to endure and live through in the 1900’s in New York. How the orphanages were a help and an escape for many of the children.
  I like the love story of Maggie Rose and Luke. How they each had to put God first and go on with their lives.
  I recommend this book Maggie Rose and all of the books in The Daughters of Jacob Kane series. Really excellent books. Sharlene MacLaren really knows how to write. You will love this book as I do.

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Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Heart of Ice by Lis Wiehl with April Henry * A Review


ABOUT HEART OF ICE
The Triple Threat Club novels follow three fiercely intelligent women—a TV reporter, a Federal prosecutor and an FBI agent—as they investigate crimes as current as today’s headlines.

The Triple Threat women have faced intense situations before…but never such a cunningly cold-blooded murderer.

Elizabeth Avery is a stunningly beautiful woman. But her perfectly managed exterior hides the ice cold heart of a killer. She ingeniously manipulates everyone who crosses her path to do exactly as she wishes--from crime reporter Cassidy Shaw, who thinks Elizabeth is her new best friend, to a shy young man Elizabeth persuades to kill for her.

As Elizabeth leaves a trail of bodies in her wake, Federal prosecutor Allison Pierce and FBI agent Nicole Hedges must piece together clues from seemingly unrelated crimes. Can they stop her before she reaches her unthinkable, ultimate end-game?

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 3, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1401685048
ISBN-13: 978-1401685041


ABOUT LIS WIEHL
Lis Wiehl is a Harvard Law School graduate and former federal prosecutor. A widely popular legal analyst and commentator for the Fox News Channel, Wiehl appears regularly on The O'Reilly Factor and was co-host with Bill O'Reilly on the widely-syndicated radio show, The Radio Factor, for the past seven years. April Henry has written seven mysteries and thrillers. Her books have been short-listed for the Agatha Award, the Anthony Award, and the Oregon Book Award. Two have been chosen for BookSense. April lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband and daughter.




ABOUT APRIL HENRY
I write mysteries and thrillers. I live in Portland, Oregon with my family.
When I was 12, I sent a short story about a six-foot tall frog who loved peanut butter to Roald Dahl, the author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He took it to lunch and showed it to the editor of an international children's magazine - and she asked to publish the story! (For no money, which might have been a warning about how hard it is to make a living writing.)

My dream of writing went dormant until I was in my 30s, working at a corporate job, and started writing books on the side. Those first few years are now thankfully a blur. Now I'm very lucky to make a living doing what I love. I have written ten novels for adults and teens, with more on the way. My books have gotten starred reviews, been picked for Booksense, translated into four languages, been named to state reading lists, and short-listed for the Oregon Book Award. And Face of Betrayal, which I co-wrote with Lis Wiehl, was on the New York Times bestseller list for four weeks in 2009.

I also review YA literature and mysteries and thrillers for the Oregonian, and have written articles for both The Writer and Writers Digest.

Heart of Ice (co-written with Lis Wiehl) came out in early April. And a teen thriller, The Night She Disappeared, will be published in January 2012.


MY REVIEW
   Heart of Ice by Lis Wiehl with April Henry is an excellent thriller. It will keep you reading far into the night, if you dare.
   It was amazing to me in this story how Elizabeth didn’t seem to have any feelings or heart for anyone, but herself. She uses and abuses people everywhere she goes. I like how you know exactly who did the killings and why in this book. It isn’t a book where you have to guess who did it because you already know.
  The three ladies called the Triple Threat Club are just fantastic. They have issues and things going on in their lives, but keep up with their work and do a brilliant job. Then when one of the ladies from the triple threat club falls into a trap of being a friend to the killer and not knowing what is going on is mind-blowing.
  I was astonished at the many different deceits and evil ways Elizabeth found to treat others. The title of the book Heart of Ice suits Elizabeth to a tee.
  The characters are quite believable, even though I hope to never meet anyone like Elizabeth. What a cunning, horrible person she was. Was it because of the way she was brought up or did she just enjoy being an evil, deceiving person and watching people suffer?
   This is a new author to me and one whom I will look for her other books. Would love to read more from Lis Wiehl and April Henry.
  I would recommend this wonderful book for all of you lovers of mystery and crime books.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive books free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Book Review Blogger program/BookSneeze. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express are my own. This is true of any book I review for any publisher or author; I will not review books where a positive review is required and I will always express my own opinions of each book received and read.


Monday, January 16, 2012

Hannah Grace by Sharlene MacLaren*A Review



ABOUT HANNAH GRACE
Growing up in the west Michigan resort town of Sandy Shores in the early 1900s, Hannah Grace, the eldest of Jacob Kane's three daughters, is feisty and strong-willed, yet practical. Between working at her father's general store and courting the town's physician, Ralston Van Huff, Hannah has her life planned out in an orderly, meaningful way. Or so she thinks. Hannah's world turns upside down when the new sheriff comes to town. Gabriel Devlin is strong, outspoken, and a Christian, to boot-but he's sworn off women, having met ones mostly interested in money and apathetic about God. Determined to ignore the newcomer's handsome looks, Hannah is drawn to him nonetheless by a shy, runaway orphan boy named Jesse. While Hannah works to befriend the shy vagabond, who's living with Gabriel until other arrangements can be made, God works in her heart. What plans does He have in store for this young woman who thought she had it all together?

Paperback: 428 pages
Publisher: Whitaker House; 1ST edition (November 21, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1603740740
ISBN-13: 978-1603740746
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.2 x 1.3 inches
Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces



ABOUT THE AUTHOR SHARLENE MACLAREN
Born and raised in west Michigan, Shar attended Spring Arbor University. Upon graduating with an education degree way back in 1971, she traveled internationally for a year with a small singing ensemble, then came home and married one of her childhood friends. Together they raised two lovely, wonderful daughters, both of whom are happily married and enjoying their own families. Retired in 2003 from 31-years of teaching, Shar loves to read, sing in the church choir and worship team, travel, and spend time with her family, in particular, her wonderful, adorable grandchildren, Dylan, Alexis, and Gavin!
A Christian for forty+ years, and a lover of the English language, Shar has always enjoyed dabbling in writing—poetry, fiction, various essays, and freelancing for periodicals and newspapers. Her favored genre, however, has always been romance. She remembers well the short stories she wrote in high school and watching them circulate from girl to girl during government and civics classes. “Psst,” someone would whisper from two rows over, and always with the teacher’s back to the class, “Pass me the next page.”
Shar is a an occasional speaker for her local MOPS organization, is involved in KIDS’ HOPE USA, a mentoring program for at-risk children, counsels young women in the Apples of Gold program, and is active in two weekly Bible studies. She and her husband, Cecil, live in Spring Lake, Michigan with their lazy, fat cat Mocha.

MY REVIEW
  This is the series The Daughters of Jacob Kane. This is the first book in that series and it started out beautifully. Jacob Kane has three daughters and the oldest is Hannah Grace. I became quite partial to her, but will probably feel the same about the others as I read their stories. I’m really glad I got the whole series to read and review.
  I really love Hannah’s attitude about the little orphan boy Jesse. How both Hannah and Gabe take care of him, her during the day and him in the evenings and nights. First Jesse won’t talk because he’s been through some awful things, but Hannah and Gabe love him anyway and give him the security and peace he needs.
  Both Hannah and Gabe aren’t looking for love with each other, but sometimes when you aren’t looking for something it gets you.
  Hannah at first is really serious about the Dr. in town, but she hasn’t asked the Lord if he was the one. I like this book because it tells us that God is interested in our little lives and He cares about every little thing we go through. He just wants us to talk to Him and really listen for His answer.
  This is a sweet love story, but also has a lot of danger and adventure in it. I love how the criminals are after Jesse and how God takes care of them. You won’t put Hannah Grace down until you are finished. It is an excellent book to read and keep on your book shelf. Easily a 5-star book. I highly recommend Hannah Grace.

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Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Love Finds You In Sunset Beach Hawaii by Robin Jones Gunn* A Review

ABOUT LOVE FINDS YOU IN SUNSET BEACH HAWAII
Sierra came to Sunset Beach for relaxation—not for world-class surfing
and certainly not for romance! When a wealthy friend offers Sierra Jensen a
vacation at an oceanfront beach house, she envisions a quiet retreat where she can plan her
next move. Instead, she arrives at the start of the noisy surfing competitions and is surprised to learn
that her friend had an ulterior motive—namely, introducing Sierra to Jordan Bryce, the tenant
staying below them. Jordan is a photographer whose lens and attention are focused on the surfers,
and he is not willing to let anyone get in his way of landing the next cover shot for Surf Days magazine.
Sierra and Jordan came to Sunset Beach looking for different things. But as the surf pounds the North
Shore, will they discover something better than either of them had imagined?

Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: SUMMERSIDE PRESS (October 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609360281
ISBN-13: 978-1609360283
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.2 x 1 inches
Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Robin Jones Gunn was born in Wisconsin and lived on a dairy farm until her family moved to southern California when she was five years old. She grew up in Orange County and spent her summers at Newport Beach with friends from her church youth group. After attending Biola University and Capernwray Bible School in Austria, Robin and Ross were married and spent the next two decades working together in youth ministry.
It was the young teens at Robin’s church who challenged her to write stories for them. She hadn’t thought much about being a writer, but took their request to heart and set her alarm for 3am, three days a week. With two small children it was the only time she could find to write the first story about Christy Miller. After two years and ten rejections the novel Summer Promise was accepted for publication in 1988. Robin hasn’t stopped writing since. Over 4 million copies of her 75 books have sold and can be found in a dozen translations all over the world.

Robin and her husband now live in Hawaii where Ross is a counselor and Robin continues to write to the sound of tropical birds chattering in the palm trees outside her window. Their children are grown but manage to come to the islands with their families every chance they get. Robin's awards include: three Christy awards for excellence in fiction, a Gold Medallion finalist, Mt. Hermon Pacesetter and the Mt. Hermon Writer of the Year award. Robin travels extensively and is a frequent key-note speaker at various events around the world.  She serves on the Board of Directors for Media Associates International and Jerry Jenkin’s Christian Writer’s Guild.

MY REVIEW
  I haven’t read many of Robin’s books in the Sierra series, but this one I thought was superb. So I know the rest would be wonderful. I was so involved with this book. Just had to keep reading to see the many twists and turns and then to see how it ended.
   I just love how at the beginning Sierra and Jordan kept meeting at different places and finally got a chance to get to know each other. It was a God thing is how they both called it and I loved that.
    In Love Finds You in Sunset Beach Hawaii it shows you that when God closes one door He will be opening a bigger, better door for you. So if you think you know best about your life, you can be sure God knows much better.
    I love the setting in Hawaii. How Robin describes the ocean, trees, wind and storms, but also how she talks about the wildlife and just the many traditions or customs of the Hawaiian people. It makes you feel like you are really there experiencing the things they experience.
  I’m quite taken with Sierra and Jordan and really think you would love this book.  It is full of sweet friends, finding yourself, life and following God. I highly recommend Love Finds you in Sunset Beach Hawaii.


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Thank you to the author for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

DVD GIVEAWAY and Review A Mile In His Shoes




Only a miracle can help baseball coach Arthur 'Murph' Murphy (Dean Cain) and his losing minor league baseball team. As Murph sets out to recruit new talent for the team, he stumbles upon Mickey (Luke Schroder), a young farmer with an incredible pitcher's arm. However, Mickey's parents are reluctant in allowing him to join the team because he has Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism. Murph convinces Mickey's parents that life in the minor league will benefit their unique son, but he doesn't realize just how much his new recruit will help the team s game and, more importantly, their spirit. Based on a true story, Thomas Kinknade Presents: A Mile in His Shoes is an inspirational film that celebrates faith, determination and the power of friendship.

Actors: Dean Cain, Luke Schroder
Directors: -
Format: AC-3, Color, Dolby, DVD, NTSC, Widescreen
Language: English
Region: Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only. Read more about DVD formats.)
Number of discs: 1
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Vivendi Entertainment
DVD Release Date: January 10, 2012
Run Time: 91 minutes
Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
ASIN: B005SQRYEG

MY REVIEW
  Another Thomas Kinkade movie for you to love.
  I really enjoyed this DVD and am happy to review it.
The actors did an excellent job. The main actors are Dean Cain and Luke Schroder. This is the first movie I’ve seen Luke Schroder play in and thought what a marvelous story. This movie was based on the book “The Legend of Mickey Tussler.”
  Mickey has Asperger’s Syndrome and Luke does a wonderful job of portraying a boy with this syndrome. He is quiet and really is respectful of this syndrome and doesn’t make it seem dumb or stupid.
  I like how the team doesn’t give up even when they are losing and neither does Mickey. It is really hard for Mickey to keep himself from being to overwhelmed, but with help and his own determination he does it.
   Of course you have your bully’s in this movie as you do in real life and I really liked how this movie ended and the faith and love Mickey had to do the right thing.
  This is a very enjoyable movie that is very family friendly and would be an excellent addition to your library. I recommend it and know you will like it.
   

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“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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The Color of Rain by Michael and Gina Spehn*A Review



ABOUT THE COLOR OF RAIN
This real-life Brady Bunch story is about what it means to endure the unthinkable---and still open one's heart to what's next. When two childhood friends die of cancer six weeks apart, the shared experience of loss brings their grieving spouses together. After months of late-night phone calls, family dinners, and countless dreams and tears, this unlikely pair builds a trust, a love, and a shared life. Told from alternating points of view, The Color of Rain illuminates the stepping-stones of healing that lead to a joyful new beginning for Michael and Gina Spehn and their five children. Like many who grieve, Michael and Gina had to choose to hope again. Along the way, they discovered that God can restore the darkest circumstances---and even from death, He can bring new life. Michael and Gina's gripping story of 'growing new hearts' will inspire readers not only to survive loss but also to receive the new courage, faith, and identity that God gives in the midst of tragedy.

Reading level: Ages 18 and up
Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: Zondervan (September 27, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0310331978
ISBN-13: 978-0310331971
Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1.2 inches


ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Michael and Gina Spehn, joined together by the loss of their spouses, co-founded The New Day Foundation for Families, which provides financial, emotional, and spiritual resources for families with children who have lost a parent to cancer. They are privileged to share their story and faith as speakers and as hosts of a weekly talk radio show, Your Family Matters, in Detroit, MI. Michael and Gina, along with their five children, make their home in southeastern Michigan.

MY REVIEW
  I really, really love this book. It is the true story of two families who loved, lost and found love another time.
It is such a touching, emotional book, but with such hope and peace in it that you will be amazed.
  It really would be a great help to someone who is going through losing a loved one and feeling all alone. This book The Color of Rain is really a precious story.
  Gina and her husband have two little boys and then Gina’s husband gets cancer and passes away after several years of fighting it.
  Michael and his wife have two boys and one girl and then Michael’s wife gets cancer, but passes away in a matter of weeks. Both of those chapters are so touching and heartbreaking, but full of faith and love.
  Both of the people who pass away went to school together.  So they know of each other and have meet each other at their children’s school.
  Then Gina tries to give Michael support because she went through death first and she is a great help, but Michael is a help to her also.
  They share much in their lives and their children become the best of friends. So this is a very special story that takes you through many different stages in life, loss and healing. I really do love this book and know it is a book you will want to read. I highly recommend The Color of Rain for you.

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Thank you to Zondervan for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Author Interview/Book Giveaway-Sharlene MacLaren


I really love this book. Here is my review link if you would like to read it.   http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/12/ellies-haven-by-sharlene-maclarena.html 




Tell us about Ellie's Haven the featured book.
Ellie’s Haven is book two in my “River of Hope” series set in Wabash, Indiana in 1928.  Here’s the book blurb taken from the back cover:

A courageous young woman seeking refuge...

Ellie Booth was never the type to run away. But she'd witnessed her stepfather commit a heartless crime, and, knowing he'll stop at nothing to keep her quiet, she has no choice but to flee. Soon, she finds herself in Wabash, Indiana, scrambling for a cover identity to evade her stepfather. For lack of a better option, she answers an ad for a wife/housekeeper/nanny, praying that her lack of experience won't be obvious.

A widowed father with no domestic skills to speak of...

Gage Cooper is reaching the end of his rope. With four children between the ages of three and ten, he needs a reliable nanny, yet each one he's hired has thrown up her hands and deserted her post. When an attractive, spirited young woman applies for the "job," he knows he should pray about the matter, but his desperation for help propels him headlong into a marriage of convenience.

A trial by fire of their wedding vows...

Ellie immediately falls in love with the Cooper children, and, not long after, with their father. Soon, the "marriage of convenience" becomes less of a business arrangement as husband and wife yield to an attraction neither one had expected. When secrets of the past and dangers of the present arise in their lives, their marriage is put to the test, and God alone knows what will become of their union.

Can you tell us how many books you have in print in the Christian market?
When Ellie’s Haven releases in February that will bring my total to 11 books.  Number 12, the final installment in my “River” series, will hit shelves in late 2012.

Is there a particular book among those you've written that you would especially recommend to our readers?  If so, why?
Haha, that’s sort of like asking a mother, “Which of your 12 children is your favorite?” I don’t really recommend any in particular other than if someone wants to read one of my three historical series, it’s best to start with volume one of each set.  The first in my “Little Hickman Creek” Series is Loving Liza Jane, number one in “The Daughters of Jacob Kane” is Hannah Grace, and in the “River of Hope” Series, you’d want to begin with Livvie’s Song. If a reader prefers stand-alone contemporary fiction then Long Journey Home, Through Every Storm, and Tender Vow are all available and I’m thrilled to add have received excellent reviews.

The Christian fiction field has rapidly expanded over the past few years.  What would you like to see happen in this field in the years to come?
Just ten years ago, Christian fiction, or as it’s more commonly referred to now, faith-based fiction, is definitely on the rise.  Authors are developing relatable, imperfect characters and realistic, page-turning plots.  I think folks appreciate being able to read a book that contains these elements minus all the sex, unnecessary violence, and vile language. Even non-Christian readers have voiced their appreciation for cleaner fiction as long as it doesn’t come off too preachy.  Authors are finding ways to present the gospel so that it draws readers to Christ rather than turns them off to His message of love and redemption. This gives faith-based fiction a more positive “face” with the average reader. My hope is that this trend will continue. Don’t get me wrong; I don’t believe in watering down the gospel, but I also don’t believe in making fiction so preachy that even Christian readers want to toss the book aside for something more realistic.  Let’s face it; Christians aren’t perfect.  If there’s a way we can show the world that God provides answers in an imperfect world, then that should be our main thrust.  I always pray that when my readers finish one of my books they won’t so much go in search of another Sharlene MacLaren book as go in search of their Bibles.  I want my readers to realize there can be true purpose and meaning to their days; that there’s a God out there who solves real-life problems and hears their cries for help.

How can readers and fans encourage you as you pursue what is sometimes a challenging and solitary job?
I love receiving fan mail!  It is the highlight of my day when someone drops me a line in my website guestbook or sends me an email.  It is like getting a whiff of the best smelling perfume on the market – it just lifts me to the heights. Writing IS a solitary job, so I connect myself to others via Facebook. When I take a quick writing break I’ll often log into FB and see what’s ‘cookin’’ with my friends.  I compare it to going to the teacher’s lounge during a recess break, something I did for 31 years. That’s where I got re-energized, refocused, and rested up for the next stretch of the day.

Many writers are also avid readers.  Do you have any favorite authors?  If so, could you name a few?
In non-fiction, I love anything by Beth Moore (who doesn’t?), Anne Graham Lotz, Sarah Young, and numerous others.  In fiction, I enjoy almost too many to name, but for starters, Jody Hedlund, Julie Lessman, Marcia Gruver, Francine Rivers, Lena Nelson Dooley, Loree Lough, Kim Vogel Sawyer, and several others. Sadly, since taking up writing, I have little time for reading unless I’m between projects.  I tell people the only author I have time to read is Sharlene MacLaren.  I sit at my computer and say, “Oh, I wonder what’s going to happen next?” because, truthfully, as a seat-of-the-pants writer, I usually don’t know!

If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?
Obviously, my Bible first!  What would I do without the Book of Books? I’d probably choose to take Sarah Young’s devotional book, Jesus Calling, perhaps Hannah Whitall Smith’s The Christian’s Secret of a Happy Life, Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Love, and maybe John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress. (That was a tough question.)

If you had 48 hours to hang out with any TWO people (besides Jesus), alive or dead in the history of the world who would you hang out with and what would you do?
Oh, my goodness, Beth Moore for sure and Billy Graham!  I bet in two days time I could learn so much from those two.

What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
Love these easy questions! My precious relationship with Jesus, my wonderful husband, and my adorable children and grandJOYs!

What is the most fun thing you have ever done?
It’s difficult to pin that down to just one thing, but when I think of FUN and EXCITING things in my lifetime – aside from getting married and raising wonderful daughters – I’d have to say that before I got married I stopped teaching for a year and traveled all over the U.S. and parts of Canada with 7 other singers.  We performed concerts for large conventions, small and large churches, high school assemblies, and numerous other events. We recorded albums in the Bill Gaither studio, hit the road, listened to ourselves on Christian radio, and generally had a blast spreading the gospel message in song wherever we went.  In that year, we visited approx. 40 states, so it was a whirlwind year packed with experiences I will never in my lifetime be able to duplicate.  

What are you writing now?
Currently, I’m writing book three in my “River of Hope” series titled Sofie’s Song.  This book won’t release till winter of 2012, but I will have to turn it in to my editor by June 1.  After that, I will jump into my next series!  The writer’s life (at least MY life) is eternally busy – just the way I like it!

How can readers find you on the Internet?
*You will find my website at http://www.sharlenemaclaren.com
*You can find me at Facebook by going to http://www.facebook.com/sharmaclaren. Let me know you read this interview and then request my friendship!
*Check out my MONDAY MUSINGS and THURSDAY THOUGHTS and other miscellaneous tidbits at my blog at http://www.sharlenemaclaren.blogspot.com
*And feel free to shoot me an email at smac@chartermi.net

Hope to hear from y’all VERY soon!

Thank you so much Sharlene for the wonderful, entertaining interview.
Sharlene has agreed to give her book Ellie’s Haven to one of you followers. 
Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
~Be or become a networked blog follower +1

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE January 22, 2012

Monday, January 9, 2012

The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher*A Review

IPad giveaway link and Facebook Party link


ABOUT THE KEEPER
Julia Lapp has planned on marrying Paul Fisher since she was a girl. Now twenty-one, she looks forward to their wedding with giddy anticipation. When Paul tells her he wants to postpone the wedding--again--she knows who is to blame. Perpetual bachelor and spreader of cold feet, Roman Troyer, the Bee Man.


Roamin' Roman travels through the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania with his hives full of bees, renting them out to farmers in need of pollinators. He relishes his nomadic life, which keeps him from thinking about all he has lost. He especially enjoys bringing his bees to Stoney Ridge each year. But with Julia on a mission to punish him for inspiring Paul's cold feet, the Lapp farm is looking decidedly less pleasant.
Can Julia secure the future she's always dreamed of? Or does God have something else in mind?


Full of the plot twists and surprises her fans love, The Keeper is the first in a new series by bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher. Through touching family relationships and trials of the heart, Fisher's vivid characters grapple with yielding to God's will when it doesn't match their own.


Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Revell (January 2, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800719875
ISBN-13: 978-0800719876
Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.8 x 1 inches
Shipping Weight: 9.3 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, The Search, and A Lancaster County Christmas, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, W. D. Benedict, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Benedict eventually became publisher of Christianity Today magazine. Suzanne is the host of an internet radio show called Amish Wisdom, and her work has appeared in many magazines. She lives in California.


MY REVIEW
  The Keeper is a book that is excellent and worth reading. I really loved it and parts of it surprised me. I love books where I am surprised at things that happen. No one likes a book that is just like every other book. Then a book comes along that just takes your breathe away and The Keeper is one of those.
  Suzanne Woods Fisher is an wonderful author of Amish fiction and I don’t read a lot of Amish stories. 
  Reading the above information about the book makes you wonder why Roman keeps moving around? What makes him not want a home and family? What past things are bothering him? I also wondered why Paul wants to postpone their wedding so many times. Julia she is just 
a sweetheart and really loves life.
  This book has really got me interested in the Lapp family and what they will do in the next book. Some books just make you fall in love with the characters. I love all of these characters from Julia, Roman, Sadie, M.K., Amos, Uncle Hank and the sweet Menno. 
  You don’t want to miss this book. It will be a favorite of yours.  Suzanne Woods Fisher has done it again. Another winning book. I highly recommend this book. I really loved it.

The iPad giveaway:  Running now until January 17th

The Facebook Party:      Party is on January 17th, and the winner of the prize package will be announced there.

Order from Amazon

I received my free copy from Donna Hausler from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 

Saturday, January 7, 2012

A preview~STUART BRANNON'S FINAL SHOT by Stephen Bly



I can't wait until this book comes out in March.
Here is just a little preview for you.

Center Point Large Print is proud to present Stephen Bly’s latest (and sadly, his last) Western fiction title, Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot. I've attached to this email, the cover art and the text.
Thrilled to be given the opportunity to publish Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot, we at Center Point Large Print were saddened to learn that Steve had succumbed to illness before putting completing it. So when Janet, Steve’s widow and a published writer, asked if she and her three sons could complete the work as a tribute to Steve, I couldn’t say “yes” fast enough. I’m sure you’ll agree that Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot is a tribute to both the character, Stuart Brannon - and to his creator, Stephen Bly. A favorable mention to your readers would be very much appreciated.
For those readers who would like to read the entire Stuart Brannon oeuvre, Greenbrier Book Company will reissue the six books that came before Stuart Brannon’s Final Shotin the spring and summer of 2012 (www.greenbrierbooks.com<http://www.greenbrierbooks.com>).
Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot
By Stephen Bly, with Janet, Russell, Michael and Aaron Bly
Published by Center Point Large Print
Available March 1, 2012
Synopsis
In 1905, at 58 years old, legendary lawman Stuart Brannon - now a rancher and widower - had no intention of leaving his beloved Arizona Territory to attend the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition in Portland, Oregon, nor to participate in the celebrity golf tournament for the Willamette Orphan Farm. Even an emotional appeal for his longtime friend didn’t persuade him. His life no longer consisted of bloodthirsty men to track down . . . people trying to kill him . . . lawless gangs preying on the innocent. 
Then the telegram came: Stuart, I need you in Portland. Tim Wiseman is missing. I think there’s a cover-up going on. Tell folks you’re going to the Exposition. Nose around. Find out how a U.S. Marshal can disappear and no one knows why. I’ll contact you there. T.R.
How could he refuse a request from the President of the United States?
Filled with humor and heart, adventure and romance, Stuart Brannon’s Last Shot is the story of a man who embodied the Code of the West.  Christy Award-winning author Stephen Bly (August 17, 1944 - June 8, 2011) wrote 105 books including six Stuart Brannon novels. In Stuart Brannon’s Last Shot, we bid a fond farewell to the character - and to Stephen Bly, his creator.
________________________________________________________________________

For additional information, contact:
Diane Hull - Center Point Large Print - P.O. Box 1 - Thorndike, Maine 04986
Email: dhull@centerpointlargeprint.com <mailto:dhull@centerpointlargeprint.com> - or contact Janet Bly at janetbly@connectwireless.us
Visit  Stephen Bly’s website at http://www.blybooks.com

Thursday, January 5, 2012

FREE EBOOK-The Attic in My Yard by Birgit Horvath-Muck


GREETINGS FRIENDS!
 I have an Ebook for one of you.  The Attic in My Yard by Birgit Horvath-Muck
Here is the link of the book that I reviewed if you would like to see what I thought of it.

http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/12/attic-in-my-yard-ebook-by-birgit.html


Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
~Be or become a networked blog follower +1
ebook giveaway
Contest is only open to everyone and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE  January 20, 2012




Dark Liaison by D.I. Telbat*A Review


ABOUT DARK LIAISON
In DARK LIAISON, Book One in the COIL Series, we meet protagonist Corban Dowler.

It is an age of prophetic strife when spiritual darkness collides with servants of the Cross. Christians worldwide are persecuted on a heightened level, and while no safety seems to exist, one man steps forward to lend a hand to the defenseless laborers.

Corban Dowler is an old-school spy. Six years ago, he accepted Christ's gift of salvation and then resigned from the morally compromising C.I.A. As Corban desires to fulfill God's Great Commission, he builds an organization called the Commission of International Laborers, (COIL), where he devotes his skills and resources to assist persecuted or kidnapped Christian servants in the most dangerous environments worldwide.

There are times in this age when Corban Dowler must hastily extract missionary families and Christian workers from danger zones before death steals them from their righteous work. For these operations, Corban has developed commando-style teams using non-lethal weapons to extract the threatened or persecuted servants of the Lord.

These covert multiethnic teams are ex-military or ex-CIA, and all believers in Christ.

Satan is every bit the adversary as he operates through his demonic workers of iniquity. They are set on claiming the lives of the righteous that stand for Truth. While COIL is working tirelessly to rescue Christians in need, Satan's followers are placing roadblocks, destroying, and kidnapping believers in Christ to thwart the efforts of COIL. The operatives find themselves prey to the very wickedness that they are committed to fight, and a battle between good and evil emerges.

Dark Liaison, written by D.I. Telbat, cover art by Carrie E. Smith, is an 83,000-word Christian action-suspense novel of espionage and spiritual warfare. This Book One in the COIL Series contrasts the lives of satanic antagonists bent on hatred with the COIL laborers who protect the Christian men and women servants standing for righteousness. And we learn that… there is no redemption without sacrifice.

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 397 KB
Print Length: 238 pages
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: Telbat's Tablet; 1 edition (October 11, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B005V257FK

AUTHOR AT 14 MONTHS-picture
David I. Telbat is a Christian author who writes in many genres, but especially Christian action-adventure, espionage, and suspense. For his writing, David draws from his experiences in travel, athletics, sportsmanship, the church, and family. David wrote his first novel at age 14, and hasn't stopped since!

Telbat's Tablet, David's website (http://ditelbat.com), offers free weekly Christian action, adventure, and suspense short stories to entertain. He also shares his author reflections, occasional writing tips, and a list of his publishing credits and honors. The credits include both print and digital publications, anthologies, and a 2nd place People's Choice Award with print magazine, The Storyteller.

D.I. Telbat's novel, Dark Liaison, Book One in the COIL Series, is available as a Kindle book from Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, and from other retailers (soon). His newest suspense novella, Jaguar Dusk, is now serialized and is being posted as free weekly chapters from his Telbat's Tablet site.

Getting into trouble with the law as a young man became a turning point in David's life. The Lord used that experience to draw David into a personal relationship with Him. Re-focusing his life for Christ, David now seeks to honor God with his life and his writing.

Because of his interest in the Persecuted Church and Christian missions, many of D.I. Telbat's stories are about persecuted Christians, their hardships, and their sacrifice to serve the Lord. Several of his novels include battles in the spiritual realm, as well as espionage.
http://ditelbat.com/


MY REVIEW
  D.I. Telbat is a new author for me and I just love his style. This book Dark Liaison is a book I will cherish and reread. I will read any of D.I.’s other books, because he’s that great of an author.
  This story is my favorite kind. It talks about the persecuted church and is a suspense/secret agent type of book. I couldn’t put this book down and I so look forward to book two in the series.
  The characters are highly developed and very likable or unlikable. I didn’t know how Dark Liaison was going to end and I love that in a book. I also loved all of the different disguises that Corban used. He is quite an intriguing character.
  Corban was once a spy and thought nothing of killing the enemy but now he is a Christian and can’t kill anymore. So Corban and a band of other individuals form a group that gets Christians and Missionaries out of harm from religious persecution. They are many times in dangerous situations, but never do any of them kill or harm another human. It is so interesting the many ways they do this.
  I really can’t say enough for all of the wonderful parts of this book. If you never read any other book this year, you need to read Dark Liaison. It is such a fantastic book, full of excitement and adventure. I highly recommend this book and wish I could give it more than 5 stars.

Here are ways to get in touch with D.I. Telbat or to read about his book.


D.I. Telbat
http://ditelbat.com

Author Central Page for D.I. Telbat on Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B004ULWX14
Vision for Telbat's Tablet website: http://ditelbat.com/about/vision/

Dark Liaison book page on site: http://ditelbat.com/dark-liaison/

About page on ditelbat.com: http://ditelbat.com/about/

Media room on ditelbat.com: http://ditelbat.com/media/  (includes a link for PDF of Chapter One excerpt, besides many other links and info)


Order from Amazon


Thank you to the author for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255