Books read Aug 2018

Synopsis:

My Jean-Marc’s uncle was married to an English woman, and she told us once, a very long time ago, that in this world there are men of two kinds. The one, the knight, is the man possessing only strength and quality of moral character. He will never ask a lady to compromise her honor for less than a vow, and never, ever will he consider another once he has captured her heart. A knight keeps his vow, even when it hurts, and the honor of a knight is a thing a country is built upon. A knight comes along only seldom these days.

Now, a blackguard is a man who can be found quite easily, for it is an easy thing to be a blackguard. He attempts to trick the young ladies into taking him home and caring for him, making them believe their honor can be given away as a mere trifle, offering no vow, and making only human demands. The blackguard is to be avoided at all costs, for to settle for someone like him is to settle for something less than ideal.

In the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Tillie Caselli promises to marry Noah Hansen. Theirs’ was a love intended to last, and their promises were never to be broken. But when there’s an illusion of unfaithfulness, the result is an error in judgment—an error that changes the course of lives.

Epic romance, global adventure, ethnic passion, and Christian values inspire this new series.

 

My Review:

The Pretender: A Blackguard in Disguise (Caselli Family Series Book 1) by Ta'Mara Hanscom
Book starts out with Noah and he's avoiding his brother and his wife as he heads back to their house for the night, after drinking heavily and riding his Harley there.
Book also follows Tillie and she's an artist, only 16 and was able to compete in Rapid City, SD.
What I love about this book are the details of Mt. Rushmore, Bridal Veil Falls and the legends behind them. Definitely on my bucket list of places to visit when we head out that direction.
Want to also see Crazy Horse statue and ancestorial grounds.
He has served in Vietnam and she's talked him into not drinking any more and to get a GED. He moved out of his brothers house to a cabin at the lake and works full time and can't wait to marry Angel (Tillie).
She has the opportunity to be with him again while her sister travels for their business...
Love hearing of the romantic gestures, holding the door, chair, etc...
Love tidbits of things to see along the way also.
Book follows the family members of Tillie and a big secret is about to be let out...
Some are out after a gangster and travel the world looking for more clues.
What happens the day they are to meet sets them apart, forever...
There are a lot of characters-easy to keep track of, love the travel, religion, romance, mysteries and very descriptive details of homes, construction and even cooking.
Has something for everyone to enjoy. Can't wait to read more from this new author to me.

SYNOPSIS:

Guiseppi looked into Rosa’s eyes as she stood in the doorway. She didn’t say a word, but he knew what she was about to tell him. Quietly, Rosa closed the door and took a seat beside him.

“She spoke of him,” she whispered. She looked into her lap and shook her head. “I want to tell her.”

But Guiseppi was stubborn…and the thing with Alex went too far. Guiseppi buried Noah’s identity deep within himself and demanded that Rosa do the same.

In the pursuit of professional and political success, Alex falls deep into a pit of pride and ambition. Guiseppi begins to hate the husband he chose for his daughter, regretting the day he gave his Angel to a pretender—a blackguard in disguise.

Guiseppi is tempted to tell Angel the secret that is crushing his heart.

In April, 2011, the mystery and suspense continued with the release of the second installment in the Caselli Family Series!

Will Noah and Tillie finally discover one another’s identities? Will Marquette finally uncover the hiding place of his life-long nemesis?

The Caselli Family Series presented by Reata Publishing.
No vampires, no sex, no vulgar language. Just good ole fashioned romance, suspense and mystery! 

 

MY REVIEW:

Pit of Ambition by TaMara Hanscom
Second book of the series and this one comes with a detailed list of the characters and other important information about the area.
Love this part because if this is the first book you're reading it will help clear up who is who.
What I also like about this book is that it brings the characters up to date with just enough details from the previous book that they don't give it all away.
Book follows Tillie and her family and extended family members and their encounters with their work and everyday lives.
Story also follows Noah and his family and his business dealings and his family.
Pregnancies in this book turn into emergency situations that draw the family together...
Noah has tax problems and is informed not only did Carrie sign the check for stocks but he's not sure why she was in Custard...
Noah's business is under control of others, some he trusts but he shouldn't....he sees a picture Angel had painted and realizes the truth.
So many secrets, mysteries, traveling around the world, romance, heartache, joy and this story is about how the faith of God will aid them in moving forward. Ends with a special message for the readers.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the end along with a preview of the next book in the series.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.

The Last Weekend of the Summer by Peter Murphy

Story sounded interesting and am really getting into reading it.

Last weekend of the summer and all the families will assemble at Gloria's house on the lake.

Love that there are so many acitivities for the kids, grown men get time to themselves fishing and drinking, women of the tribe get to gather and plan and the ex of one women will be showing up.

It's all for Gloria's sake-others think it is about her dying, some think she will be moving in to their houses, others think it's about the grandfather.

Lots of drama but deep down feelings also show through. Like that Gloria has to use medical marijuana to get through the pains. Some don't agree with that treatment...

Secrets come out about the past and I like how they are dealt with by everybody. There are very strained moments similar to ones our family has dealt with over the years whenever the whole family got together. Some just don't get along with all, so you avoid them.

Great story, love the ending, a surprise! Love that this book covers all age groups and their realistic daily problems.

About the author and reading group questions  and conversation with the author are included at the end. Other works by the author are highlighted also.

Received this review copy from The Story Plant via Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.

#TheLastWeekendOfTheSummer #NetGalley 

Texas Law by Anne Greene
1879 and Jane and Caitlin are on the stage coach and it's being held up...
She's now lost the money to pay their father's mortgage and they lost the jewelry also.
Travis McGuire is just Pinkerton detective and he's been hired to track the robbers down to retrieve the money and jewelry.
Love how the women make plans to make money to pay the mortgage-hate to believe she's thinking of selling her quilts...
Recipes included-so cool!  The townsfolk start the rumors and her father puts his foot down.
Like how Travis helps her out with the stand and other things. Things get out of hand and he's able to bring one of the culprits to jail til he tracks the others.
So very detailed about the bad weather, felt as if I was there in the river...her father is also seeing a woman.
She is being told she has to leave til the town quiets down... Other works by the author and about the author are included at the end.
Really like all the subjects covered in this book, bit of romance, cooking, business dealings, mystery, religion and family.
I was given the review copy by the author via Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and this is my honest opinion

Lacey and the Law by Anne Greene
Starts with dedication and scripture quotes.
Book starts in 1924, Chicago and we find Lacey Fairchild sharing time with her best friend Patricia.
Peter had tried to stop the gangsters after they visited a speakeasy...but they kidnapped Patricia.
Mitch, a lawman was there and now visits her at home as they've not received a ransom note. So frightened for her and Lacey as well as the scenes are so detailed you can sense the danger.
So much danger, mystery and religion to help them get through the hard times.  Really enjoyed this one-the time frame also.
Other works by the author and about the author are included at the end.

I was given the review copy by the author  and this is my honest opinion.

A Love Song to Cherish by Josie Riviera
Starts out with Dorothy and she had not wanted to come back home ever again. Nothing worked out-her boyfriend found another and she was once alone again.
She is in withdrawal from opiods and the symptoms could last a few years...
She's heavily into music, especially at churches. Health issues kept her from playing her musical instruemnt.
She's only back in her hometown for her brother...his wedding to Alice and they wanted her to play. Ryan (a nerd) will be the singer...she'd not seen him for years when she left to find fame and fortune.
Ryan is accomplished worldwide. He's not found a reason to go back to church but recalls the feeling it left him with.
What I like about his book are the unpredictable scenes, caring and such inspirational support. Love how their secrets came out with no judgment.
Note from the author, recipe and other works from the author and about the author are highlighted at the end and acknowledgements.
Excerpt from A Christmas to Cherish is also included.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.

The China Trade Clipper Brig of Saint Michaels, Maryland, John Gilpin 1830 -1841
Have read other works by this author and really appreicate the research noted.
This book starts out with acknowledgements then onto the story of The John Gilpin.
Beautiful color photo with sails up. Without going into the story as it's a short but precise account there are other items included:
author bio and other works by the author, Cargo account-handwritten notes along with details, ship log and all the footnotes are resourced.
Enjoyed the history of this book as author puts it all into a readable entertaining story.
Received a review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.

The cast by Steel_ Danielle
Book starts out with Kate and she's leaving work, turned in her column, had a drink with colleagues and left to get a tree to help decorate her huge apartment.
Kids and granddaughters were to arrive the next day-she'd cook the day before Christmas so they could all sit back and enjoy.
Loved hearing of the past relatives and how they survived = especially baking cookies, then cakes, etc.
Love that Kate is in her 50s kids live around the US and other countries and she's happy with her live-without a man...
Like how her friends throw a new year eve party and she attends, meeting one who puts the idea of writing about her family, casting it for a tv movie. like hearing the process of getting the show written, casted and filming..
With the blizzard she starts writing the scenes and meets with Zach later that week-he loved it...
Everyday drama occurs and Kate is the one to fix it all...
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

Going underground_ Mount Rushmore_ Badlands_ Wind Cave by Graf_ Mike - Leggitt_ Marjorie
Have read other works by the authors and really learned a lot more about our national parks and other things to do while there.
This one is one we've yet to visit-mt. Rushmore but we plan to, just not sure when.
Love the guided tours, off the beaten paths and mysteries surrounding poachers...
Like what else you can do-headphones while on the trail so you know what you're looking at-this is priceless to me!
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

The mistress by Danielle Steel
Book starts out following Vladimir and he's a Russian billionaire. His girlfriend of 7 years is Natashia and he found her n the streets in the winter and offered her help. After a year she accepted and had been with him ever since.
It's their understanding he wants no kids, no ties to one another, he treats her well with money, clothes, etc as long as she's there when he wants her. Love hearing of the life style-so extravagant.
Story also follows a painter who had died, his spouse only sold a few of his items. She and her son run a restauarant where all the pictures are on display.
Vladimir wants more in his collection and everybody has a price...
Years go by and Theo paints her portrait just from memory and they meet when it's on display.
Vladimir wants the rest of the art display and Theo tells him they are not for sale...a robbery occurs and Natashia finds them hidden...she's stuck between a rock and a hard place.
Where do her loyalities lie? Will she make it out alive-so unpredictable.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

The girls in the picture by Benjamin_ Melanie
This story follows the life of Mary Pickford and her screen writer, Frances = Lady Marion. Love how it starts when they are young when the movies are just starting out.
Love affairs and journey to the war to cover it and keep the morale of the troops high.
Like the women's connection and how they stick to their guns.
Alternating chapters between the two women.
Like behind the scenes whether it's about the movies or the war.
Have read other books by this author, very detailed and she does her homework!
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

The Darling Songbirds by Rachael Herron
Have read other works by this author and have enjoyed them.
This one is about Adele and she's returned to Darling Bay in Oregon where the last of older generation of the family has died, Uncle Hugh.
He ran his own saloon, cafe and hotel but it's not how she finds the place.
Story also follow Nate who has been one of the most helpful throughout Hugh's life and working at the bar.
They do get along with one another-he's a fixer and she wants to do things herself.  Lots of heated sex scenes.
Like the locals and what they stand for, scenery, different ideas of how to make it in the saloon world.
Like how this story ends. Author bio at the end, links to connect along with other works by the author.
Excerpt from the next book in the series is included.

The Sad Pumpkin – A Halloween Story For Kids by Adam G Newton
This colorful sketchy type book is for kids, easy to follow and it is a rhyming book.
Sally the pumpkin is sad as the story goes on we find out why.
Doctor gives her an idea of how to make her happy again-it's up to her to do what he says.
Interesting what happens when she is having the worse day ever. Good story.

Begin Again by kathryn Shay
This book starts out with the twin women of the Ludazecky family and they've lost their twin husbands in the crash.
They ran the family company and now three years later we find Paulina has taken over the building aspects of the contracting company.
Love the designs she's involved with at the latest project and how pretty and prestine it all sounds.
Paulina doesn't want to start dating but...she does have to work with the new design architect, Adam.
Love the sister time at Sofia's yoga studio.
He knows of the women's lifes and tragedies but he's trying to hold it all together.
Sexual scenes and many other good points to this story as the days go by. Love how the family comes together in times of need.
At times there are just too many characters in a scene to keep straight. Love that the others in the large family have a book for themselves.
Author's note at the end and other works by the author. Excerpts from the next in the series are included.

Kiss Me, Cowboy (76th Copper Mountain Rodeo #3; Bar V5 Dude Ranch #3)  by Melissa McClone
This book starts out with Charlie (charlotte) and she is in charge of a lot of things in Marietta, at the Bar 5 Ranch.
The tourists are there and they expect to be pampered a bit while being shown around.  She has an opportunity to go to another state for a few months but this time if she does decide to return her job may be filled.
Story also follows Zach who's back in the states after his time in Afghanistan and he's not quite over the loss of his friend. She helps to soothe him but he wants to also keep his distance.
Like the town and am familiar with many of the characters already.  Hoped there wouldbe more information written about the rodeo parts.
Love the events that do take place and can't wait to read more from this author.
Other works are listed at the end. About the author is included.

The Ultimate Guide to Declutter Your Life and Organize your Mind.: Understanding the Art of Decluttering and Methods of Organization. (Simplifying Your ... organize, organize your life, simplicity) by Felix Oberman
Book starts with a table of contents and introduction about orangizing your home and other things.
I still find myself going through a year later things that I've not used in a while and donating them or tossing them out.
Stresses many aspects of the orginzation and a summary paragraph of what it will do for you.
Each area of the house is discussed.  Like sections on eating healthier and finanicial things.

Mug Recipes Cookbook : 50 Most Delicious of Mug Recipes by Denny Levin

Starts with a table of contents and short introduction.

Each recipe comes with a title, list of ingredients which you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sugar, low fat, low sodium products and canned-use fresh.

Directions are given. There are NO pictures.

There is NO nutritional information.

Like differnt combinatiosn of flavors.

Not sure how you can in a mug a whole box of cake mix, pudding mix and other things. My mugs are not huge enough and I can imagine the overflow.

Going to try the banana bread one today but you have to use the oven so will wait til it's time to also cook dinner in the oven.

crock-Pot Express Cookbook: 5 Ingredients or Less - Easy, Healthy, and Irresistible Recipes for Nourishing and Delicious Meals by Janet Cole 

Starts with a table of contents where recipes are broken up into meals.

Short intro about the multi cooker which is a pressure cooker. I have a different brand but always on the lookout for more recipes to use in it.

Discusses the parts of the pressure cooker and maintaining the pressure.

Tips have their own chapter. Each meal chapter has a summary and also of the recipes included within.

Each recipe startes with a title-how it's cooker and servings. Prep and cook and total time is included.

Summary of the dish. and list of ingredients. You should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs by not using prepackaged items-use fresh, also sub for low sodium low fat and low sugar items.

Directions are given. Nutritional information given is for a portion of the recipe that includes total calories protein, carbs, fat-NOT broken up into good or bad and fiber.

Sprinkled with Love by Jennifer Faye

First time reading this author and I enjoy her style of writing.

Very descriptive, detailed scenes and caring.

Starts out with Jillian and she finally wons the Tangled Charms Bakery where she also sells her designer jewelry.

She's heavily involved with town events to benefit charities. Her business partner and friend Suzanne also is part owner.

Avery is recovering from his accident at the rodeo and he somehow gets roped into entering the bachelor bakeoff to raise money for Harry's House, a local charity.

His sister Beth gets her hand into things and before you know it Jillian is teaching Avery how to cook.

Like this book for many reasons: you can do what you want in a recipe-not follow the instructions exactly or substitute for other ingredients. Like horse drawn carriage ride, hot chocolate episodes, the cats are to die for!

Misunderstandings occur and lack of communication and he might just get what he's always dreamed on in the end.

Other excerpts from other books in the series-written by other authors are included. About the author is included at the end.

Wish the recipes were included, sound like fun ones.

50 Most delicious sandwich recipes by Denny Levin

Book starts with a table of contents, short intro and then the recipes.

The recipes include a title, list of ingredients which you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: Low sodium, low sugar, low fat products and sub fresh for canned items.

Directions are given. There are NO pictures. There is NO nutritional information.

There are a lot of ingredients-mostly spices so these are going to take some time to gather everything before you make them.

Lots of different flavor combinations.

Dirt Poor and Lovin' It! by Kate Singh

Like this book because it's simple and easy for anyone to do. Starts with a table of contents.

Speaks of utilizing the house you live in to make it work for you and your income-take others in is one suggestion.

Budgeting is also discussed. Teachs you how to stock the pantry and what you'll be able to cook for healthy meals.

Love the section on farming the produce yourself and even making compost from vegetable waste to create your won dirt.

One of the things we do not currently have is a clothesline outside. It would help a bit with the electric bill but we just replaced our appliances last year with more energy saving ones.

So many ideas here and how to reuse things. Extra resources listings are listed at the end.

Healthy Living (2nd Edition): 12 Habits You DON’T KNOW That Promote Healthy Living & A Healthy Lifestyle! by Linda Westwood

Starts with a table of contents where each habit gets its own chapter.

Short chapters about the book itself and why it'd be good for you.

Each habit starts with a title and it describes how to go about doing it and then there are technical, sometimes scientific reasons for your body why you should do them.

Free book offered throughout. There is also a section in each chapter about the action plan that will help you achieve this habit.

Other works listed at the end along with excerpts. Sounds like after you finish achieving all these goals your life should be in order.

Sneak peek at 13 morning habits to lsoe weight. 

Sneak peek  at 3 day rapid weight loss detox is excerpted.

Sneal peek at 7 day juicing cleanse and detox for weight loss is included.

sneak peek at 51 quick and simple habits to burn belly fat is included.

seems to me there are more sneak peeks than the original book itself.

The perfect couple by Elin Hilderbrand

Story of a couple getting married on the island. The brides parents are traveling by ferry to attend-she's got cancer and they expereince the island with fresh eyes. I feel with the words the author has written that i can smell the air as they arrive.

Grooms parents are there also from England with their own car.

A murder occurs and everybody has to state where they were and other circumstances.

Mystery the sheriff is following as he raises teenagers.

There are a lot of people around, sometimes hard to keep it straight.

Sad that there is not one couple who's not gone through infeideltiy, or even both of the perfect couples.

Lots of drama, enjoyed travel to other locations.

I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

Sugar on snow by Nan Parson Rossiter

Listened to this book on tape so am not able to see the colorful pictures.

Story of two boys who are finally old enough to help the tree farm in Vermont and it's maple sugaring time.

We have witnessed the process ourselves and it's something you should experience.

Buckets are filled so the next day they might be able to start boiling.

They are going to go sugaring off and fill up with a hearty breakfast.

Love the legend at the end.

I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

Someone to hold by Balogh_ Mary 

Book is about Camille and she was raised with a royal title, but they learn it's been stripped from them all. Her sisters, mother and brother and herself are just common folk now. Lots of English laws and protocol.

She ends up teaching at the orphanage where her half sister was raised. She falls in love with the infant and the kids of all ages.

Love section on learning to knit, boys and girls alike.

Love how she is able to use that to keep the children all together and not get lost on their adventures. Reminds me of a rope chain thing that we saw on the west coast walking trail-children under 5 held onto it and walked to their classroom with headlamps on as it was just dusk.

Story also follows Joel, a painter who is paid to paint Camille's portrait. He also is at the orphanage and he soon learns of his uncle who wants to leave him all his estate-he wants nothing of it.

Sexual graphic scenes and like the dancing events.

I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

The High Tide Club by Andrews_ Mary Kay 

Enjoyed other works by this author. This one starts with the young girls and they've formed a club on the full king moon when they go skinnydipping on the island.

Story goes back in time to update you on the events of the past and how they pertain to the latest present day.

Brooke a lawyer hopes to help the old woman, Josephine who's dying and wants to pass on her portion of the island, rather than giving it to the state for hardly anything.

Brookes job will be to find the others in the club-if they are still alive. Older days speak of luxusious living, money is no option, so many details.

Verina, Millie, Ruth and one is Brookes grandmother and she learns many things about her. The had extravagant pins made that meant a lot to the 4 of them and Josephine explains about the wedding-not to Russell...

They were closer than sisters and Brooke knows how hard it is to keep friends over a slight argument.

They all gather and the truth is revealed although there is nothing they can do about it. Other mysteries arise... 

I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

Healing Honey For Beginners by Dr Brad Turner
Starts with table of contents: history, different, varieties, and health benefits, nutritional facts and recipes.
Photos during the introduction parts help explain what the words are saying. Like different flavors of honey as they are shown with a picture and summary of the herb/flower.
Each recipe startts with a title list of ingredients and you might be able to substitute for a healthier dietary needs: low fat, low sugar, low sodium products.
Details are given. No servings, no pictures and no nutritional information.

Chicago Cookbook: Taste the Windy City with Easy Chicago Recipes by BookSumo Press
This book starts out with free ebook offers, about the author and intro about cooking effortlessly.
Table of contents broken up by main meat source. List of common abbreviations.
Each recipe starts with a title, list of ingredients which you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low sugar and low fat products along with fresh produce rather than canned.
Directions are given. Nutritional information has calories, fat-NOT broken up into good or bad, cholesterol, sodium, carbs and protein for a 2000 calorie diet.
Servings and prep, total times are included.
There are no pictures of the dish.  There are photos of the area throughout the book-doesn't state where they are taken.

5 Ingredient slow cooker cookbook by louise davidson
Table of contents where recipes are in meal categories.
Short intro about slow cooking. Chapters on slow cooking tips and safety and more.
Each recipe starts with a title, servings, prep and cook time. List of ingredients and you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low fat, low sugar products.
Direction are included and some nutritional information per serving: Calories, carbs, protein and sodium.
There are NO pictures.About the author is listed at the end, other works by the author and cooking conversion charts, oven temperatures.

High and Dry by Lesley Ann McDaniel
Starts out with Karen and she's on the way to her mother's B&B in Oregon from Seatlle where she lives. When she arrives she finishes up her call with work but drops her phone and it breaks and she falls.
She also notices a nice looking guy that is taking pictures of her moher's flowers and they get to talking and then she heads into the inn where she proceeds to her mothers business room to finish her call and change into different skirt.
Nothing goes well as she puts on sweat pants and then tries to find her mother. She learns over time that her mother has sold the inn, they are getting married and she's yet to even meet the man.
She starts rummaging through boxes and wants to keep so much of it's contents til she realizes the power has gone off and the tree has crashed through the roof of the carriage house-where she is.
The guy, Doug has found her and she prays to the Lord for help as she knows there's only one rescue truck in town. His father comes to the rescue as he tries to safe her also.
She really went overboard on the assumptions and if she had only taken the time to really listen to what her mother had been talking to her about the past half a year she'd realize what was really going on.
Surprise unprdictable ending.
Excerpt from the next book in the series is inlcuded. Other works by the author are highlighted.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.

The Cabin: an Off the Grid suspsense thriller by John Koloen
Book starts out with Jacob and he's just gotten married, to the most gorgeous woman ever. He soon realizes that she's just out for his money as she's caught cheating on him.
He's tired of being the guy to give her everything and walks out into the WI wilderness and soon finds a place where he can call home. Love what he does to survive-watching others cabins for money while they're not there and what's in his cabin.
Story also follows a group of men who are religious based but also milita patriots who are out to make a name for themselves.
One leaves and they realize he knows much about their organization and they have to get him back-at least his phone. They track him down to a small town and drive him and an kidnapped FBI agent to a cluster of cabins....
Love hearing all their thoughts from beginning to end and the outcome. Very brutal at times but very herioc as well.
Was a good break from the romance books I read.
Excerpt from another of the author's works is included at the end. Author bio also.

When I Wake Up by Joanna Liu
On the tablet you are forced to read landscape mode, can't enlarge text size.
Children's colorful sketchy book about going to bed and it's not always fun.
She thinks of things she might do the next day as they go by in her thoughts pictured above.
Interesting how they make it so not always fun LOL

Sand in my Hair by Sandra Beaumont

Childhood memories of growing up in the 50/60's sounds like such a great read as that is the time my family were youngsters.

They live by the sea and it's a bit different than in the US but we played outside more than inside. We had relatives of all ages living in the neighborhood.

The Super Ladies by Susan Petrone
From the descriptions this sounds like a great read, a little bit of something for everybody. Love how lives are intwined and they are there for each other supporting and helping in any way they can, at the children's sporting and science fairs.
Starts out with a gathering of the women and a chemical reaction when the experiment goes bad...the women sense the changes but have no idea what they mean.
Women are from the Cleveland area and liked learning about their careers and family life situations. When I realize what happened it's like wow this could really happen in todays world. Some hiliarous moments!
Like how the women embrace the changes and learn to live with them and how they open up to others who questions their talents. Don't read during the weekend but sneaked away several minutes listening to this book-couldn't put it down!
Love how the story got started and I do now enjoy comic strip type brought to the screen movies. Love lesson about how everybody has a talent, everybody is good at something.
If we all harnessed it we can change the world for the better. Other works by the author are summarized and highlighted at the end with an excerpt. Would love to read more from this author as the topics interest me.
Received this review copy from The Story Plant via Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
 #TheSuperLadies #NetGalley 

Defensive Instructor by Debra Parmley
The Brotherhood Protection service is helping those at the ranch protect themselves by learning how to, by actually doing the activities.
Chyna is also at the Triple C ranch after being abused and hopes to find protection and we learn how she got to the ranch and those that crossed her path.
Like hearing of the procedures of admittence to the center-very fair.
Love how the program is laid out for those taking part it in. I know myself I might need to do such training because if my spouse dies I will be very vulnerable. Love the awaremenss part as I am blind and am aware but could improve and this book is doing that for me.
The men are not there to rescue them and take them away.
Chyna has a secret crush on Barrett and daydreams about him. He wishes he had met her outside of the ranch under different circumstances.
Like the activities they are trained to do-often thought about learning how to shoot a gun myself.
They attempt to learn things each like as they spend time together at the ranch, during programs.
Like different phrases that got me looking up more information about them-gas lighting.
Story also follows her ex husband as he tracks her whereabouts down and he will capture her to get what he wants... Like technology used..
So emotional reading this-tears in my eyes as he's found her but her training has come into action...
Love style of this author's writings, this is one not to put down til the very end. She makes you feel as if it's all happening to you.
Didn't see the ending happening like it did, WOW. Twists and turns and romance, so detailed. Domestic abuse help is listed at the end. Other works by the author are highlighted at the end.
I received this review book from the author and this is my honest opinion.

Romance Stories To Cherish: A Sweet And Wholesome Christian Novella Book Bundle by Josie Riviera
 This bundle contains two books
A Christmas to Cherish by Josie Riviera
Always enjoy reading a Christmas story, and it's just July here. Book starts out with a few words from the author and list of her other works.
Started with Emmanuelle, a professional harpist and she's on her way to Dorothy's store. She's starting her new life after years of troubles.
Loved hearing about all the Christmas decorations.
She prays to God to help her get through the transition and to let things lay in the past.
Her ex took everything from her...
Story also follows Nicholas who's a deputy and is free from his ex girlfriend after she left him at the altar on their wedding day.
Dorothy hopes to get Emmanuelle to stay and work at her music studio. She knows her and Nicholas have spent many an hour over the year and they have many common interests.
This book is filled with holiday events, mystery and danger and twists and turns and love and believing in God.
Like the location and hope to read more from this locale.  A note from the author about the book is included at the end, bonus recipe! acknowledgements, about the author, and other works by the author.
Excerpt from The Love Song to Cherish is included.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
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A Love Song to Cherish by Josie Riviera
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Starts out with Dorothy and she had not wanted to come back home ever again. Nothing worked out-her boyfriend found another and she was once alone again.
She is in withdrawal from opiods and the symptoms could last a few years...
She's heavily into music, especially at churches. Health issues kept her from playing her musical instrument.
She's only back in her hometown for her brother...his wedding to Alice and they wanted her to play. Ryan (a nerd) will be the singer...she'd not seen him for years when she left to find fame and fortune.
Ryan is accomplished worldwide. He's not found a reason to go back to church but recalls the feeling it left him with.
What I like about his book are the unpredictable scenes, caring and such inspirational support. Love how their secrets came out with no judgment.
Note from the author, recipe and other works from the author and about the author are highlighted at the end and acknowledgements.
Excerpt from A Christmas to Cherish is also included.

Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.

Friends forever by Danielle Steel
 Izzy, Gabby, Billy, Shawn and Andy are friends throughout the years (k through 12) at the prestigiuos private school.
Better chance to get in if you had another sibling there already. Services also offered physiological help and help with colleges.
Story follows the parents and their lives. Very confusing to me because there are so many of them.
What I do like about this book is the pact they make in 2nd grade and how many different situations they go through.
Like hearing of the older children, infants and parents lives.
Tragedies occur when they are older as they thought they were invincilbe.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

The apartment by Danielle Steel
Very interesting book about 4 women, from different backgrounds and working in 4 different fields.
Shoe designer, wall street investor, obgyn doctor and a screen writer.
We get to not only learn about their careers but also how they get along with one another and help each other out.
Fascinating they live in an apartment above a Hell's Kitchen bar-I've watched movies about this area and found them cool to see.
One also has a model twin, another has a gay brother who visits and others are going through different stages of dating.
When things go wrong there's lots of action, adventure, drugs, embezzlement, romance and travel-something for everyone.
Love this author's books. Bit confusing at times as there are four main characters and they come with relatives and friends.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

The view from the ground by Martha Gellhorn
Enjoyed reading these stories and the subjects are so diverisified they are interesting.
Liked the different locations and learning about the culture.
Things I really liked is that the span of stories covers over 60 years.
War stories she makes you feel as if you are there, with fear as you ride your bike to the border.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

Five Little Monkeys With nothing To Do by Christelow_ Eileen
Cute children's story about 5 monkeys, it's summer and there's nothing to do. Mother has some things for them to do...
their grandmother is coming. Problem is monkeys get into a lot of trouble...
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

The sweet-shop owner by Swift_ Graham
Starts out with the man who owns the shop and I love how he prepares for his day as he's older now and can't really the chores himself.
In his younger days we find out how he met his wife and her stipulations. Hate how others just want his money, not fair as they never earned it or even appreciated him.
Book is set in England so some things are a bit different than in the US. Was hoping he'd share a recipe or two.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

The little hotel by Stead_ Christina
Story follows many who have stayed at the little hotel-in Switerzerland.
Seems to me they gossiped a lot about the guests among the owner and the maids.
Like they don't have enough to do with their work. Stories of women taken advantage of because of all the money they have.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

Beginner's luck by Kate Clayborn
Story starts out with three women and they're going over their day from hell at work while drinking and on the way out buy a lottery ticket.
They win and their lives change. Kate is a biologist and nobody understands her work even the man, Ben who's there offering corporate financing if she'll join his team. He has no clue as to what she even does but she likes the looks of him. She had wanted a home and bought a house with her winnings.
Zoey and Greer are her friends, like family. Story also follows Ben who's in the middle of getting his father discharged from the hospital and fixing up his house so he can stay in it as he ages and needs aids.
Enjoyed both characters as it's a learning experience: her with her house that needs a lot of repairs and him helping and living with his dad.
His dad works at the salvage yard and he has many things Kate can use at her new house.
Heated scenes enhance this story.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

Crochet 101 Master Basic Skills Easily through Step-by-Step Instruction by Deborah Burger
I am a published crochet designer and have done work for yarn companies and taught myself how to crochet.
Not sure at times if I'm really doing the stitches properly and second guess myself all the time.
Starts out with a table of contents where it has basics, putting it all together, traditions and abbreviations/symbols and glossary and index.
Like pictures as they start with simple things like a mug rug and talks about the basics.
Tells you what to expect and to have breaks and patience.
Diagrams are shown throughtout the book along with real photos. Chart of hook sizes and yarn weights is very informative.
Love easy project they start out with, so simple but it will build your confidence that you can do it.
Like troubleshooting tips along the way also. Stitches are explained and shown how to work them along with an easy project to do.
Each pattern has a title, summary and what you'll learn. Things you will need are listed, gauge, finished size and stitches used along with directions and tips.
Color photo preceeds the pattern.
Photographs are easy to view the item with background: colors are not to dark to see the details.
Stitches and patterns get more difficult as the book goes along and you should be able to follow it. Even reading a pattern by charts.
Love that there are so many projects to make, useful and practical for every home.
Hooded scarf would be my first project as I make things for the homeless and that is one thing they can use in the winter cold months.
Book finishes off with author bio and so many resouces of information.
A KEEPER!
Received this review copy from Quarto Publishing Group – Quarry via Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
 #Crochet101 #NetGalley

The Knitter's Dictionary Knitting Know-How from A to Z by Kate Atherley
Book starts out with a table of contents: intro, getting started, a-z, references, acknowledgements and about the author and other works.
Intro talks about this book as a guide to help you understand the language and patterns phrases.
What I like about the getting started are the important parts of knitting: the patterns, size, gauge, tools, knitting fibers-love the yarn band where it shows all the info about the yarn that is highlighted by arrows.
Chart about the item you want to make and what important yarn features are best to use.
The dictionary itself is set up a chapter for each letter of the alphabet and all the phrases used in knitting=some have explanations of how to do the stitches.
Also various diagrams showing stitches on the needle and pointing out other information.
Charts throughout on general symbols used in charted patterns: chart and symbols on yarn bands about fibers and if they can be machine or hand washed-very helpful when deciding what type of fiber to use;
Different neck shapings provide you with instructions on how to do the inc/dec; Charts on needle size in US, UK and metric.
What a KEEPER! So much useful information.
Received this review copy from F+W Media via Interweave and this is my honest opinion.
#TheKnittersDictionary #NetGalley