Unblinded: One Man’s Courageous Journey Through Darkness to Sight by Traci Medford-Rosow
Major plus to buying this book is that the author is donating all proceeds to the Mitochondrial Disease Foundation and it's a super good read.
Starts with praise for authors works and summary of this book.
Story starts out with how and why this book was written.
Diary entry type book that shows when he first noticed the loss of vision and his drinking.
I can totally relate to this story as I've also gone to specialist every 6 months for the past 50+ years of my life due to an unknown disease/condition.
Exams and tests done I am very familiar with, devastating outcome for him.
I have been very lucky with the doctors I've seen and I know all the technical terms when educating a new doctor due to change in health insurance. Some I know more about the disease then they do.
At times the book is hard for me to read as I've been there done that and didn't even want the tshirt.
Love help the support group gave him I've not had a coffee table in centuries as I'd never see it and trip over it.
So Many brick walls, you can't even imagine the obstacles to just get help.
There are pictures throughout the book showing what is going on during it's specific chapter.
I recall the hurtful comments from family the first time I used my cane at a family outing-they treated me like I had cancer or something they'd catch.
Not my parents though they were 100% behind me and I think at times they felt they were to blame for my lack of vision.
Learned by listening to this book how to use the sweeping method when using the cane-I was never given instructions. Love how he was still able to take pictures-in his mind while another held the camera and actually took the shot he was describing.
Love taking photos myself of architecture, it's fascinating to me.
Love hearing of the superfood intake and the other things Kevin is able to find out about that he puts into practice and all research done on his part to cure himself..
Love little things that come back to life that others take for granted.
Treasure every second you have vision and don't forget there's always someone out there with worse eye conditions and going through worse than you.
Received this review copy from the author via the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
Cash Call A Stan Turner Mystery by William Manchee
Like how this book starts out: the law firm isn't getting paid for the services they have performed including Jodie the secretary who's so much more than that.
Stan takes a boat in trade for his client 6 month past bill but his wife is not happy, at all.
Like how the clients each get their own chapter so we can find out about their case.
The boys and men are able to enjoy the boat fishing and after he gets back the call comes from one of the guys who's teen son is in trouble, drinking and driving...
With three now working at the office on their own cases financial things calm down but there's a lot of action. So many investigations going on, some entwined.
Love how it all plays out with clues given. Can't wait to read more.
Received this review copy from Top Publications via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
#CashCall #NetGalley
Summer of '69 by Elin Hilderbrand
Book follows a family-3 girls, one boy during the summer of 1969. Each one could have their own book on their own-they are just so good.
Remember myself listening to the radio when my brother was up for induction into the military but he had a number that meant he'd not be seeing any ....
The girls brother was not so lucky-he was sent to Vietnam to fight. One treasures his letters home. Another woman is pregnant with twins but her husband is not so faithful and she ends up on the Vineyard.
The grandmother is also there and the other two girls have jobs for the summer months. Love the traditions that are followed every year. Especially like hearing of the things they do on the island-very similar to how I grew up on the island in the bay nearby.
Beaches-nude beach, public beach, beach for Blacks only as just a handful of those that are talked about. Each one holds their own speciality.
Events lead to the death of a young woman who makes world wide fame because of who she was with.... So many events I recall from my childhood.
Twists and turns and so many secrets that shed light on what's really going on.
Love hearing the soldiers journey and especially love how the book came about. About the author and notes are included at the end.
Resources are noted and acknowledgements and other works by the author are highlighted.
Received this review copy from Little, Brown and Company via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Montauk by Nicola Harrison
Have visited the area in the 80's to see a Lyme disease doctor so didn't spend a lot of time there but holds special memories for us.
Book starts out with driving the roads along the water edge, many of the cottages are magnificent.
The couple has had other friends who've stayed in the area in the summer and the inn has lots of events planned.
Beatrice and Harry had planned this trip for a while. He is a Bordeaux and he has to provide for her. He will work and live in the city and come down on weekends to spend with her.
Sounds like a fun outdoorsy place, just what we'd be looking for...they are bypassing Providence and Newport-places we live very close to to stay at Montauk.
Beatrice is left behind as her spouse heads back to the city-he doesn't come back every weekend. She takes excursion with Dolly to her hat shop in the city and she knows when she walks into her apartment what's happened there...
Over time she devotes her life to the true islanders and finds a special friend. Towards the end of the summer season she's notified she's pregnant...Harry thinks it's his...
Knowing the date I had not expected what happens next but won't spoil it for others-we also experienced it in RI-up the coast from this location-out of the blue, so devastating.
She has plans for her life but this event may have changed her mind. Lot of characters but easy to keep track of them all and there's a lot of drama from all angles.
Love the parts where she's able to help the islanders and charity work. Love how she stands up to Harry...
Enjoyed the read and especially the location and hearing of the locals and their life.
Received this review copy from a publicist via St. Martin's Press from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
#NetGalley
Interesting read and just what I needed as I've been binge watching Vikings and need to get away from them for a bit.
This one starts out with Stuart and he's confused as to where he is, his house, his pregnant wife, etc. Nothing is making sense to him even after talking to his brother David.
He gets help from a psychiatrist and she's tried to help him piece the missing parts together-no one at the museum where Laureen works even know her...
Interesting concept of the unexplained black spots on weather tracking satellites-could happen I suppose....Reminds me so much of the twilight zone as the scenes that the cops and others come across just can't be explained...
Other events around the world are going awry also, lots of high technology and things above my comprehension but they are making sense that this could totally happen in the world today.
One explanation is quantum earthholes...like how they plan to send Stuart back with the DNA implanted and he knows what he has to do with it...
Very detailed transformation and I worry what he will find at the end of the journey. Very scientific believable read.
Enjoyed the book and the subject.
Received this review copy from the author via the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
Feng Shui: Master the Ancient Art of Feng Shui for Wellness, Health and Prosperity (Feng Shui House, Office, Bathroom for Maximum Simplicity and Harmony Book 1) by Thomas Hunter
Fascinated by the book after watching the Marvel Iron Fist character and he has a golden fist. Loved watching how they moved, so fluid and smooth and ot learn of the legends surrounding this form of art.
Starts out with a table of contents about basics of Feng Shui and other components.
Like the section of the myths and how some are far fetched and false. Like hearing of the history with dates.
Love sections on how to transpose each of the rooms in your house to make you feel comfortable in there.
Our living room is set up already and I like the flow when you first come into the room, so relaxing.
Like learning what the different colors can do for you in the rooms. Love the help with the kitchen as I had decluttered but know I need to do a bit more....
There is so much to this, loving it! Throughout the book there are italicized sentences summarizing what the words are telling you to do.
Also includes a preview to weight loss and how to set goals, SMART ones.
Final notes from the author and this is
A KEEPER! for me
To have and to hold by Fern Michaels
She's left at home and has been notified her husband Patrick is missing in action. He had safely ejected from the pilot seat of his plane over Vietnam.
Now she had to concentrate on the two little girls she had, all on her own...
She's lucky to have found someone who can help her and the girls-she falls apart and can't even get out of bed til one day the woman tells her she is leaving to be married...
She does an about face and gets a job, back to college and tends to the girls also and her husband is now a prisoner of war...
Like hearing of the struggles the husband has to endure and hope he can make it back in one piece.
Like how the family move on but keep things intact in case...unpredictable,
Love what the mom and girls were able to accomplish over time.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).
Desperate, Dangerous and Deadly: A Western Collection by Debra Parmley
Three books about the west and what really happens there...
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A Desperate Journey by Debra Parmley
Sally was married to Luke and they had a son and a daughter. His gambling debts caught up to them and he left with his son and she had to auction off the house. She spent a few days at the parson's house and then started out on a journey to find her son. Ozzie Moss was driving his mules and supplies from Kansas to Texas and she and Carolyn were along for the ride, til the Fort Riley came into sight. They told her to stay due to the Indian raids but she left after one sergeant had molested her one night.
Others were also looking for her: Robert Truman. He looks so vicious but he wants revenge on something Luke had done that landed him in jail for 5 years.
Rob had come to her rescue at the fort and again another night out on the journey when the wagon broke an axle.
They travel as a group and go through many towns in search of Luke and Matthew. Indian raids and river crossings and one gets hit by an arrow. The forts are a safe haven for a bit of time as they travel further south to Texas.
They meet up with some characters that only enhance the tale.
Rob knows more as they travel further and hasn't told Sally. She's kinda taken a liking to him though.
Love how they spend the Christmas day and what they do to make it very special. As the journey comes to an end as things go full circle.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
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Dangerous Ties by Debra Parmley
Starts with dedication page and then the story takes place in Nevada 1860 and Lilian is tied up and they hope she will die.
She didn't know where the money was, her fiancée abandoned her and had robbed others in town.
Love that she followed her relative and she was able to support herself with her hands, sewing but many didn't need many gowns, not like the big city.
Story also follows Nick, a man who has come upon her tied up as she passes out.
They missed the mine shaft as the ties broke, just in time he had saved her.
Love hearing his side of how he's taking care of her while she sleeps...
Like how they are able to find what's missing, love the hiding places.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
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Deadly Adversaries by Debra Parmleyy
This one starts out in Texas 1881 with texas ranger Jacob Brace as he watches his friend Matthew Truman read a letter from his sister...
She is being forced to marry so the guys head out to help her...
When she is kidnapped things really happen fast. Like the details and especailly the outcome.
Love hearing the plans of the future. Other works by the author and a note about the author are included at the end along with other works.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Dangerous Ties by Debra Parmley
Starts with dedication page and then the story takes place in Nevada 1860 and Lilian is tied up and they hope she will die.
She didn't know where the money was, her fiancée abandoned her and had robbed others in town.
Love that she followed her relative and she was able to support herself with her hands, sewing but many didn't need many gowns, not like the big city.
Story also follows Nick, a man who has come upon her tied up as she passes out.
They missed the mine shaft as the ties broke, just in time he had saved her.
Love hearing his side of how he's taking care of her while she sleeps...
Like how they are able to find what's missing, love the hiding places.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Deadly Adversaries by Debra Parmleyy
This one starts out in Texas 1881 with Texas ranger Jacob Brace as he watches his friend Matthew Truman read a letter from his sister...
She is being forced to marry so the guys head out to help her...
When she is kidnapped things really happen fast. Like the details and especially the outcome.
Love hearing the plans of the future. Wish the story was longer.
Other works by the author and a note about the author are included at the end.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Montana Marine by Debra Parmley
Loved the new things I learned about security with social media and phones.
This book starts out with Jack and he accepted to help his buddy be a bodyguard to the star.
He's not so interested in the star but her personal assistant, Lucy. They spend a lot of time together and she takes the abuse from her employee who pushes her around.
She gets upset and heads to town to stock up on her beads for her jewelry making hobby that keeps her calm.
Problem is the man who's been stalking her has taken her...scary moments as he tortures her in his own way.
Love how the clues all fall into place and they hone in on her whereabouts. Great read has a lot of what I enjoy reading from this author.
About the author and a note from the author are included at the end. Listings of the authors works are highlighted at the end.
I received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Marine Protectors Box Set: Brotherhood Protectors World by Debra Parmley
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Love that there are three related books in this series-can't wait for more from this genre.
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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 admittance 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 awareness 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.
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Marine Protector by Debra Parmley
Starts out when she has escaped the holds of her boyfriend and the biker club. She got away and is directed to a safe place out west. She and many other women who have been abused and battered have arrived to get help.
They are trained in many aspects of self protection. They have weapon training, self defense moves and awareness. This last one I love as being blind I can sense and hear and smell so much better than other because of the loss of that sense.
She loves being outside with the horses. She feels comfort and appreciates the others who come to the complex to train them. She likes Timber and he accompanies her to get his tattoo changed and spend a night out for dinner, in town. As she becomes more secure she gets a job serving drinks at the bar.
One night things get out of hand and what she's learned has to click in the way she was taught. Steamy sex scenes.
Wish society would train women/girls while in high school how to take care of themselves so they'd never have to be vulnerable again.
I received this review book from the author and this is my honest opinion.
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Montana Marine by Debra Parmley
Loved the new things I learned about security with social media and phones.
This book starts out with Jack and he accepted to help his buddy be a bodyguard to the star.
He's not so interested in the star but her personal assistant, Lucy. They spend a lot of time together and she takes the abuse from her employee who pushes her around.
She gets upset and heads to town to stock up on her beads for her jewelry making hobby that keeps her calm.
Problem is the man who's been stalking her has taken her...scary moments as he tortures her in his own way.
Love how the clues all fall into place and they hone in on her whereabouts. Great read has a lot of what I enjoy reading from this author.
About the author and a note from the author are included at the end. Listings of the authors works are highlighted at the end.
I received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Irish Hearts: A SWEET AND WHOLESOME ROMANTIC BUNDLE by Josie Riviera
This bundle contains: Maeve, 1-800 Ireland, and Oh Danny Boy
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1-800-IRELAND: A Sweet Contemporary Romance Novella (Flipping For You Book 3) by Josie Riviera
Another great story from the author.
Have followed this series and enjoyed them all.
This one starts out with Kathleen who's relocated from Ireland to NC, a small town called Roses. She lives above her new store-a tea house serving real Irish bread to name a few items on her menu.
Candy, the one who set up the apartment and saw to all the new owners needs from the US side also has notified Rob, her friend in FL who bakes cakes and cupcakes in his own shop.
He's older and not quite the catch of the day-love this that he's just a regular guy and kinda out of shape.
kathleeen has it set in her dreams about her shop but Maureen knows she will need help. Rob needs time away from his own shop so travels there to see what it will need, in his opinion to make it a success.
He never expected to find Kathleen so charming! Like the challenge they take part it. So many lovely detailed descriptions, I can just picture it for real.
Loved hearing all about starting up the business-priceless information!
Some characters from the series make an appearance but you are given all details aobut them so you're not left in the dark.
This can be read as a standalone! Irish slang words are explained in the conversations they have.
Misunderstandings and you wonder if they will ever get back together to see if they have what it takes to be a couple.
Recipe included! Note from the author is included at the end.
Acknowledgements and about the author is included. Offer to join first readers group.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the end. Excerpt from Maeve is also included.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
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Maeve Perfect Match Series by Josie Riviera
Love how this series, all standalones with a common theme, came to be, so cool!
This book starts out with Maeve and she's been so busy tending to her ailing brother and working and her friends notice it also. The match site owners want her to try out their service-pick an island and spend the alloted time together with her perfect match, while the company takes photos of them enjoying each other and the location.
She makes arrangements and ends up going to her island of choice, Corsica. Love the reasons why she wants to go there. She is treated with high regard when she arrives-eveything is seen to and her match have itinerary they are following-places to see, things to do, and relaxing. She is a purchaser of hotel equipment.
Story also is folling Edward and he is part owner of a huge company that is interested in making another resort-that's why he wants to go to the location-to take photos of the area and to see if it will work. He and Maeve do spend a lot of time together, getting to know one another and they are really from the different parts of society that you know it will never work out for their match.
Love the things they do, how caring each is to the other, especially love the food topics and sights and surprises. One doesn't go as planned when they meet up with Edward's friends and they really make her see a different side to Edward. Upon return she is summoned back to Ireland, an emergency. You know it was too good to be true.
Note from the author about the location, recipe included, acknowledgements, About the author and list of other works by the author are included at the end along with an excerpt from the next book.
I received this review book from the author and this is my honest opinion.
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Oh Danny Boy by Josie Riviera
This book starts out with praise for the author's writings.
Book starts out in Ireland and her brother Seammus is on the bridge, about to jump and probably drunk as he's griefing still over the death of his wife.
A man will go with her to stop him as they climb the rusty bridge.
Clara tries to console him, the guitarist behind her supports her...
Danny Brady is the one that helps them down off the bridge as the news reporters are there to film it, their whole lives on the screen...
Over tea they talk about his coffee shop and finds out about the scones she bakes-thinking he could make a profit at his shops selling them...he needs to buy her recipe, they are that good!
They start seeing one another and Danny actually hires her brother to work for him. Some things are missing, along with money, a cyber crime upon Danny and her new jewelry from her birthday party.
She starts putting things together and just knows her brother is to blame for it all, or could it be her ex boyfriend who's out of jail now and has been harassing her...
Fear and scary situations but also loving, caring ones also. Love the locale and travel
Especially love his other gift that he gives her, what a true sign of love.
Note and scone recipe from the author are included at the end.
Other works from the author and about the author are highlighted at the end
Excerpt from Maeve is included.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
The Gamma Sequence by Dan Alatorre
Have read other works by this author and like the style of the descriptions and details.
Things are really spelled out here, clues come from all angles and it's cool to be able to follow along as the clues come in.
Also like the financial things that come into play with all the other aspects. So involved.
She has contacted him with some information about a murder which he turns over the cops then goes on a journal with her to find more clues and to stay away from those who are harming the geneticists
Like the travel locations, medical part of things but all the high tech things are neat also. Mystery is not gory or blood curdling so it's not that bad of a story-i'm not used to much more than cookbooks and romance books.
Enjoyed this all the way through with lots of twists and turns. NOT predictable at all.
Love the ending...
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
High Performing Vegetable Gardens: 12 Keys From a Master Gardener by Teri Hanna
Starts with a table of contents where there is no specific order.
Into talks about high performing vegetable gardens and how to do it.
Some color photos are included.
Links to other resources are highlighted in the book.
Good suggestions as to how to start it, if you have the time. I just take pictures yearly to see the differences.
Water, fertilizing are crucial. Love the chapter on making your own compost.
Tells you how to speed up the growth with what you put into the dirt.
There is SO much to this book about all subjects. Love the discussion about cold frames and propagating seeds for next year.
About the author is included at the end. Gardening advice is highlighted at the end of quotes from each noted.
Additional resources are included at the end. Bibliography is also included.
A KEEPER!
The Ultimate Mediterranean Diet Weight Loss Program 2019: Simple, Easy & Mouthwatering Recipes for Rapid Weight Loss and Healthy Living by Penny Albritto
Starts with a table of contents where the intro is about health benefits of the diet plan.
Chapters are broken up into meal categories.
Like that each section has a title but also background is a color that makes it noteable and easy to find.
Each recipe starts with a title, prep and cook time and servings.
Color photo and list of ingredients and how to make the dish.
Nutritional info also highlighted in color has calories, calories from fat, total fat, sat fat and cholesterol are noted.
You should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low sugar and low fat products and fresh vs canned.
Some recipes have a LOT of ingredients, be sure to get them ready to use before you cook. Some recipe also use metric measurements mixed in with American ones.
Not every recipe starts at the top of a new page.
There are so many listed that I can't wait to try. With my healthier substitutions this book is
A KEEPER!
Easy Casserole Recipes: 50 Favorite Kids Meal Ideas (Family Cooking Series Book 1) by Debbie Madson
Starts with tips on how to make casseroles. Making sauces is my favorite because it can be used for so many dinner dishes and it's all healthy ingredients!
Each recipe has a title, short summary of the dish telling you how to make it healthier and list of ingredients. Directions are given.
Table of contents where the chapter are broken up into food categories.
Each of the recipe starts with a title, summary of the dish, list of ingredients and directions. There are no pictures and no nutritional information but you can substitute for healthier options and they tell you how.
Some recipes have a small photo at the end. There are no servings.
A KEEPER! for sauce healthy suggestions along with recipes you can use them in.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the end.
Camping Cookbook: Foil Packet Recipes Vol. 2 by Louise Davidson
We use foil packets every weekend for a few meals for the upcoming week and put them on the grill.
This book starts with a table of contents where recipes are broken up into meal categories alosn with a lot of info and intro about what a foil packet is and how to make and use them.
Other works by the author are highlighted.
Intro about foil packets is discussed in detail along with various ways to make and use them.
Each recipe starts with a title, servings, list of ingredients and how to make.
there are no pictures. There is no nutritional information.
You should be able to substitute some ingredients for your healthier dietary needs: low fat, low sodium and low sugar products.
Even includes desserts. Other works by the author are highlighted again at the end.
Charts showing measuring conversion and oven temperature are included.
HOW TO MAKE MONEY WITH AMAZON AFFILIATE MARKETING (AMAZON): The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide To Making Money From Home (Or Anywhere In The World) (Business Books) (Marketing Books Book 1) by Michael Greene
Lots of great advice. I found it a bit complicated and to me it's going to be very time consuming to get it set up and monitor it.
I have many interests so that's my problem. If I just had one it might be easier to handle. step by step instructions in how to put the links at your sites.
Amazing Quinoa: Family-Friendly Salad, Soup, Breakfast and Dessert Recipes for Better Health and Easy Weight Loss: Gluten-free Cookbook (Healthy Cooking and Living 1) by Vesela Tabakova
TOC where recipes are listed as main meal categories. Intro about quinoa and why the author loves it so much.
Talk of healthy benefits of eating quinoa. Salad and side dishes start off the book
Each recipe has a title, servings and list of ingredients and directions in how to make.
There are no pictures and NO nutritional information but the ingredients look super healthy.
Lots of interesting blends of spices.
Soups and main dishes is next. There are a LOT of ingredients, be sure to have them all ready before you cook.
You should be able to substitute broth for low sodium broth.
I would also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned.
Breakfast and desserts follow next:
Author notes finish up this book. About the author is included. Bonus 20 smoothie recipes are included.
Good selections to try.
Jerusalem Recipes: A Cookbook of Israeli and Arab Traditions by J.R. Stevens
Color photo makes me want to try this recipe-looks so healthy and appealing with all the colors.
Author urges you to join the mailing list of other works available.
Table of contents where the recipes are broken up into meals.
Each recipe starts with a title, prep cook time and servings.
List of ingredients is listed-not sure what some of them are but they look healthy.
Directions are given.
There is NO pictures and no nutritional information.
Some recipes have a translation in the title.
Without the pictures and a translator and reading through the recipe you'd not know what to expect.
How Monkey Got Her Fluff Back: The Adventures of Bug and Monkey by Samantha Ortiz
Colorful children's book about Monkey and Bug and they are dogs that live in the same house.
Large lettering making this easy to read to the child. Pictures show what the dogs do all day, having fun....
They play outside and get dirty and come in for a bath. Monkey is angry because his fur is no longer fluffy!
Once the solution is obvious they go about on their normal lives again, playing and barking...
Camping Cookbook: Campfire Grilling Recipes by Louise Davidson
Book starts out with a table of contents where recipes are broken up into food categories and meals.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the start. Intro talks about camping and other sections talk about food safety and camping.
Listing of what's easy to transport and hacks.
Each recipe starts out with a title and servings.
List of ingredients and you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low fat, low sugar, fresh vs canned products.
Directions are given. There are no pictures and there is NO nutritional information.
Even has recipe for desserts. Other works by the author are highlighted at the end.
Appendix contains cooking charts and measuring equivalents, and oven temperatures.
Spoken from the Heart Growing God’s Way by Cheri Swalwell
Great book about life and how to overcome the struggles and obstacles.
Love the peace the author finds first thing in the morning when she spends time with God.
Like how she observes others in their relationships and how they are mentoring her.
Love the words she has for the years from the Lord himself for her cherish She is able to invite God into her decisions and it helps keep her focuses and calm.
Love the Bible passages and how they directly relate to a situation in the book.
Best part of this book for me was the discussion about the little things. I smile when I think of all the little things today in the past 9 hours.
Offer of a free ebook when you sign up for the author's newsletter. As the author learns more about God she shares her knowledge with us by citing everyday events and matching them with his guidance and passages from the Bible.
Author has questions at the end to help you connect with others.
Acknowledgements and about the author are listed at the end and author bio.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Spoken from the Heart: Journey of Complete Surrender by Cheri Swalwell
Starts out with offer of a free ebook when you sign up for author's newsletter.
Table of Contents covers the names of the chapters and a note from the author.
Listing of the books in order are highlighted.
Like how the authors real life is also reinforced from passages from the Bible.
Love how music has helped with following the Lord and keeping at peace with herself.
Three is so much to this book hope you can relate to half of it if not more. At times I felt the book was written for me as I've experienced many of the same things...
Ends with acknowledgements and other works by the author.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Change of Heart A Seashell Cottage Book by Judith Keim
Did not read the first book in the series and do not feel as if I missed anything.
Start with other works by the author, adult and children's. Praise for works are included.
Dedication is also included.
Emerson Jordan is a woman at her sister's wedding. Jared had broken off their engagement just a few days ago.
She works at the family's flower shop. Her dating troubles and her friends she hopes to rent the cottage in FL or just get away from Valentine's Day festivities. Until she learns her friend is in love with her ex fiancée.
Her sister gets another to share the cottage-the best man at her wedding-no attachments, no pressure. They each have a good time and are able to talk and learn about one another.
She wants a child-he missions at South American countries... she returns to start up her landscaping business in upstate NY while also running her grandmother's flower shop. She has to hire others so she can keep up with her business as she's just moved into her own condo.
Scary when she's there by herself before others move in. Love the 5 things one needs to protect themselves. So helpful information.
He arrives at the flower shop and they are able to talk more. Like how the story also follows her sister who's just delivered a baby, her parents are nearby and her grandmother has health concerns and maybe a new romance in her life.
Seems like a lot of characters but is easy to keep track of everyone. Love learning about the flower and landscaping businesses.
Just when you think the story is about over it's only just begun. so much more to come.
So many twists and turns and surprises. Excerpt from the next book in the series is included.
About the author and acknowledgements is included at the end.
Received this review copy from Wild Quail Publishing via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
#ChangeOfHeart #NetGalley
Aimee's Gift by Kathleen Sprout
Book starts out with Aimee and she's helping the immigrant workers in the orchard. The parents trust her enough to take them sledding on winter days.
Story also follows Luke whos a newspaper reporter but he's tired of working on 'fluff' pieces. He gets a call from a woman who won't identify herself about stopping some crime in where the workers live and he rushes to their aid.
He sees a deputy is already there and he's warned to stay out of things. He does the opposite and tries to befriend them and learns some things about their way of life.
Aimee calls him and lets him know of other things going on that disturb him and he starts to write a column about it til his boss finds out and puts a stop to it.
Like the area of North East WA as we've not spent a lot of time there in that state but have traveled nearby-beautiful country.
She has hidden secrets about why she can't allow him to see her face and other details. She doesn't trust God any longer and Luke tries to get others and her to attend church once again.
Love the work he does to convert them to go to church once more. Fire puts a halting stop to a lot of things and she knows she must leave after sending her testimony about the fires to the fire department-hoping they will prosecute the deputy.
Lots of other facts come to life also when Jim helps Luke.
Really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more from this author.
Herbs & Spices: Rubs, Blends and Mixes: An In-depth Guide to Creating Your Own Seasonings by Jay Howard
Starts with info about Encore book club and how to join.
Other works by the author are linkable.
Table of contents covers recipes for certain food groups.
Intro talks about what herbs and spices and rubs can do for the food you eat.
Herbs and spices details the spices and each has a type, aroma/flavor, cuisines and dishes.
Makes it easy to find the foods you are preparing and select the right flavors to go along with it.
Everything from A to z!
Next chapter are listings for seasonings by meat group.
Each recipe has a title and list of ingredients. There are no instructions or pictures or nutritional information.
Next chapter is about regions and the seasonings the different countries use.
My favorite chapter would be salt free seasonings.
Love salad dressing mixes also, they are so costly in the store.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the end along with info about book club.
A KEEPER! for salad dressing mixes.
Children's Picture Book: "Mushy! Fishy! Soupy!" (Bedtime Story) (“Kitchen Tales For Kids” Book 3) by Miley Smiley
Starts with other works by the author.Colorful children's story of a spoon and they want to taste everything.
Like how they describe some foods they do taste-thus the title of the book.
Like all the different colors and big print letters to help educate the child making it fun.
Other books by the author are highlighted at the end.
Cappuccinos :The Ultimate Recipe Guide - Over 30 Delicious & Best Selling Recipes by Susan Hewsten
Starts with a listing of things you will need to make cappuccinos.
Table of contents lists the recipes in no specific order.
Each recipe starts with a title, prep cook and ready in time also servings.
List of ingredients and you might be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low sugar and low fat products.
Directions are given.
There are NO pictures and NO nutritional information.
Like flavor combinations.
How to Cook Restaurant-Quality Lean Meat-Chicken Breasts by Tony James Miller
Starts with table of contents where recipes are broken up into how they are cooked.
Intro talks about how others perceive eating lean and chicken as being bland, author will teach you otherwise.
Recipes included in with the discussions of how to cook the chicken and lean meats, very simple recipes.
Recipes in the meal section start with a title and list of ingredients and you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low sugar, low fat and fresh vs canned products.
Directions are given. There are NO pictures and NO nutritional information.
Love that there are many forms of baking the recipes so you can select the healthiest of them for yourself.
The Instant Pot Sunrise: A Collection of 25 Wholesome Breakfast Recipes by Eric Davis
Book starts with table of contents where chapters are broken up into different textures of breakfast items.
Free ebook offer. Intro is about aspects of using instant pot.
Each recipe contains a title, color photo, prep time and servings.
List of ingredients and directions on how to prepare.
Nutritional information has calories, fat, NOT broken up into good or bad, fiber, carbs, sugar and protein-not sure what calorie diet this is for.
Lots of choices and just a handful of minutes to prepare.
Indian Instant Pot. Nourishing recipes under the pressure. by William Nash
Book starts out with offer of a free gift. TOC where recipes are broken up into meals.
Introduction talks about cooking Indian food where the recipes contain very exotic flavors and some spices may be difficult to locate and recipes contain MANY ingredients.
Listing of essential spices to cook Indian recipes are summarized.
Each recipe contains a title, small color photo, prep time and servings.
Nutritional information: calories, fat, NOT broken up into good or bad, total carbs, protein, doesn't state how many calorie diet plan it's for.
List of ingredients and how to make the item.
26 ingredients for one recipe, make sure you have everything well in advance of cooking.
Like that they are using fresh ingredients vs. canned ones.
Diabetic Cookbook: Healthy Low-Carb Meals That Help Lower Blood Sugar and That Anyone Can Cook by Gianni Martini
Book starts out with into about being diabetic and how to adapt.
there is so much information about basic things: reading food labels and there are clickable links for further resource information.
How to use the grocery store is another important factor here.
Meal plans are listed but not all have recipes-they will come later.
Recipes listed are vague, gives you title, servings and how to make the dish but there are no pictures and no nutritional information.
Love the section where you can use your own meals and substitute for things you should be avoiding.
Explains how to snack and what to avoid also how to eat in restaurants.
Resource listings is included at the end.
Mediterranean: A Mediterranean Cookbook for Easy Mediterranean Dishes by BookSumo Press
Starts with offer of reader's club information and other works are highlighted by the author.
About the author is included. Introduction about the cookbooks is also included.
TOC where recipes are not in any specific order.
Abbreviations listing is included.
Each recipe starts with a title list of ingredients which you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low fat, low sugar and fresh vs packaged or canned products.
Directions are given and there are NO pictures.
Nutritional information includes calories, fat-NOT broken up into good or bad, carbs, protein, cholesterol and sodium based on 2000 calorie diet.
Prep cook and total time is included.
Crockpot Recipes: 125 World Class Slow Cooker Recipes (World Class Crockpot Slow Cooker Recipes Healthy Meal Cookbook Book 1)by Susan Hollister
Book starts out with a table of contents where recipes are broken up into food categories and meals.
Intro talks about the use of the crock pot and how easy it is to use and the benefits of using it.
Some pictures showing different shapes and sizes.
Each chapter starts out with a summary of the food items in that section.
Each recipe has a title, color photo and summary of the dish itself.
List of ingredients and you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sugar, low fat, low sodium and fresh vs packaged and canned products.
Directions are given.
There is NO nutritional information.
Each recipe does NOT start at the top of a new page.
Some interesting flavor choices and combinations. Some recipes call for a LOT of ingredients.
Love the chart that shows all the rice varieties.
Other works by the author are linkable at the end.
One-Pot Cookbook: Family-Friendly Everyday Soup, Casserole, Slow Cooker and Skillet Recipes for Busy People on a Budget (Free Gift): Dump Dinners and One-Pot Meals (Healthy Cooking and Cookbooks) Kindle
Mediterranean style soups, stews, stir fry and other dishes.
Easy to make and very nutritional although there is no nutritional information but fresh vegetables and spices are used.
There are no pictures and my favorite would be the beef stew
A KEEPER!
Remembering First Love (The Rivera Sisters Series Book 1) by Jeanine Lunsford
Starts with a glimpse of what's to come that is filled with not only prayer but frightful secrets.
Story starts with Carina and she's heading down the aisle as a bridesmaid.
Her sister Amelia is getting married to Richard and she is the good sister. Carina was and is till known as the bad sister and had once wanted Richard.
She needs to prove to her mother that she's not the same girl she used to be-how responsible she is...
Like that the book also concentrates on Amelia and her new life and the move to Texas. Hated hearing of the abuse of the factory Hispanic girls must go through at the sewing factory..
Although she tries hard to follow her Christian upbringing she also falls for one of the bosses, who's not a Christian....
Terrifying, haunting, dark, abusive scenes and you wonder if her belief in God will save her...
About the author is included at the end along with her other works.
Didn't care for the subject but thought it'd be more of a contemporary romance book as categorized.
Received this review copy from the author via BookSirens and this is my honest opinion.
The Bookshop on the Shore by Jenny Colgan
Have not read previous versions of this series but love the idea of having a book shop at the shore.
Starts with Zoey and she's traveling with her young son to Scotland where she just got a job taking care of 3 children. She's no longer able to pay her rent and her DJ boyfriend is too busy for them and doesn't wish to tell his parents of the child.
She struggles as she arrives and learns about the family-no mother but a father who is into antique books.
Story goes back in time to when she was just pregnant and at other stages to the pregnancy.
She's got the right answers for the children who are trying to drive her and Hari away. The housekeeper who's pregnant is hospitalized and now Zoe takes over her work load as well as her other chores.
Love the time she spends with Mary shopping for clothes. Things change once the kids are back to school.
Her ex shows up and wants her to go back to England and he's promised to help with the money....the kids overhear and draw their own conclusion and they go missing, the lake is too close and that is one place they search for them...
We learn over time why the mother left the children and her husband....
Things change with her ex and now he and his new girlfriend want them to be closer-for the child. Party for the kids to introduce them to others they will be going to school with-wow what a bash!
Love what she does tot he book store, the things she adds that make all the difference in the world.
They draw close to one another and miracles occur...
Acknowledgements are included. About the author is also included along with her other works.
Praise and reviews are included at the end.
Received this review copy from HarperCollins Publishers via William Morrow Paperbacks at NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
#TheBookshopOnTheShore #NetGalley
A delightful way of cooking with southern casseroles cookbook: It is all about typical southern casserole cooking by Bobby Flatt
Book starts out with intro where they discuss the term casserole and history behind it.
Table of contents where recipes are broken up into meals.
Each recipe has a title summary and a color photo of the dish,
Prep time and servings is included.
List of ingredients and some have a LOT and there are a lot of misspellings/typos (160z which means 16 oz.) and 2tbsp which is 2 TBSP) sin some of the list.
Directions are included and I like how recipes are using different means to cook the items.
There is NO nutritional information but you should be able to substitute the ingredients for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low fat and low sugar products and fresh vs packaged or canned items.
I do like that there are only a handful of recipes per category.
Another format problem is the abbreviation for TB is sometimes tbs and sometimes tbsp.
Should be very consistent throughout the book.
Broccoli: The Ultimate Recipe Guide - Over 30 Healthy & Delicious Recipes by Jonathan Doue M.D.
Book starts out with a table of contents where recipes are not in any specific order.
Intro talks about the healthy benefits of eating broccoli.
No section or recipe starts at the top of a new page.
Recipe starts with a title, prep, cook and ready in time and servings.
List of ingredients which you should be able to substitute for your healthier dietary needs: low sodium, low fat, low sugar and fresh vs packaged.
Directions are included. There are NO pictures and NO nutritional information.
Lots of ways to use broccoli and various ways cook it also.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the end.
I am not a baby by Bob Smith
Colorful children's book about how a child is growing up.
They are able to do so much by themselves especially now that they are four!
Dressing themselves, getting their own breakfast, walking up the stairs, avoiding puddles.
They find many adventures outside. Some words are hard to see due to the background colors.
Great read.
A Cute Pair of Shorts: Two Stories by Laurie Baxter
Story starts like from the viewpoint of a woman running a dating site. Lots of lingo and drama.
Didn't get anything out of this story.
The Art of Circular Yokes A Timeless Technique for 15 Modern Sweaters by Kerry Bogert
Starts with table of contents where there is an introduction, math solutions and the patterns.
What i like is that the pattern name is also followed by the designers name.
Intro starts with definition of art form and there is a lot of math involved in these patterns.
Take your time and do it right and the sweater is going to fit just perfectly.
There are sketches when the math construction is explained in details.
The measurements are shown using Imperial and Metric measurements.
Shaping is also discussed in detail. Each pattern has it's own pictures and also some show consution pictures.
Summary of the item is described by the designer.
Photos are stunning as are the colors chosen.
Pattern has finished sizes, yarn used, needles sizes and notion. Gauge is also included along with any notes for the specific pattern.
Charts are also included if there are differnt colors in the sleeve and hem sections along with the yoke itself.
Glossary is also noted when it comes to some stitching techniques, that section is at the end of the book.
Finishing brings the whole item together.
Lot of choices to select the one you want to make along with a lot of different sizes.
I felt the patterns are not that difficult, not sure I'd want to tackle this is a beginner.
Love that the format is the same for all patterns. Like some of the patterns enough to want to knit them into an infant afghan for charity.
My favorite to try would be Sigriour because of all the color changes and Modern Art because of the symbols on the yoke and this one is reversible.
Abbreviations are included at the end along with stitches explained that are used in the patterns.
Glossary includes methods of casting on, bind offs, short rows. lifted increases, seaming, and finishings. These are also shown using diagrams.
About the designers is the next section in alphabetical order.
So talented!
Yarn sources are includes with linkable INTERNET access.
Knitting resource books are also listed.
A KEEPER!
Received this review copy from F+W Media Interweave via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
#TheArtOfCircularYokes #NetGalley
One-Stitch Baby Knits: 22 Easy Patterns for Adorable Garments and Accessories Using Garter Stitch by Val Pierce
Book starts out with smaller color photos of the projects with their title, TOC where introduction and tips and hints.
Patterns are broken up into levels.
Everything you would need is discussed also shown with color photos.
How to knit is shown with step by step instructions. Conversion charts and abbreviations are also shown.
Each of the projects are color coded by the level of expertise. Each pattern includes the level, title, summary of the item and materials needed along with gauge, measurements and other useful information.
Color photos of the item are included. Step by step written directions are given, showing you how to do it via a color photo.
What I love about this book is it is for everyone-no matter what level you are. the projects are very useful and easy to make.
Love the color combinations of the projects-they really go together well.
Like color code of each level so if you are unsure if you'd be able to do the project you can view the level easily.
There are so many I want to make as I knit for charity for infants and young babies.
Index and acknowledgements are included and about the author.
Would love to read more of this author's works.
Received this review copy from Fox Chapel Publishing via IMM Lifestyle Books from Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
#OneStitchBabyKnitsValPierce #NetGalley
