Tales of the Heart--Loree Lough-Review

Repost from my original post found here. 

Authors website. Click http://www.loreelough.com/here.

Marathon Book Review Weekend Book 4 Tales of the Heart

This book is a great 3-in-1 Collection of Historical Romances by Loree Lough. 
The titles include: Bridget's Bargain, Kate Ties the Knot and Follow the Leader. 

Here's the info. from the publisher about the three stories . . . 

Bridget's Bargain - When the potato famine of 1845 forced Bridget McKenna to flee her home in Ireland, she came to America to work as a scullery maid on a Virginia plantation. That was four years ago. Now, Bridget dreams of bringing her father and six siblings to join her in America. She also dreams of marrying a God-fearing man, and when she meets the tall, handsome Lance York, it seems her dream might come true. He's English, however, just like the cruel landlord who oppressed Bridget's family in Ireland. Could there be more to him than she realizes? 

Kate Ties the Knot - Seven years of widowhood have made Kate Flynn a strong, independent woman who even operates her own dressmaking shop. But when her eight-year-old son, Adam, has a run-in with a burly shipbuilder, she realizes the necessity of some godly male influence. Adam starts working in a warehouse owned by John Joseph O'Keefe, better known as J. J., who looks out for Adam and feels a growing attraction to his young protigi's mother. Kate's emotions are as tumultuous as the ocean as she wonders what the future will hold.

Follow the Leader - The Civil War has destroyed everything Valerie Carter held dear. Struggling to come to terms with her emotional devastation, she accepts a teaching position in Freeland, Maryland, and her heart is gradually warmed by her students' affection. She also finds herself attracted to Paul Collins, a young widower with three children who has a childlike faith in Jesus Christ. Will Paul be God's instrument to free Valerie from the bonds of bitterness?

I visited the authors blog and found that she also has written some great sounding Contemporary Romances. And honestly I have to say that I would really rather read those if I ever get the chance. Honestly I am not a fan of Historical fiction. 

And honestly I didn't make it through this collection. I did try both Bridget's Bargain and Kate Ties the Knot. I didn't make it to the third title. I think at another time when I don't feel stressed to read them and have a few hours to devote that I would really enjoy all three. 
And, in fairness to the author I will make another attempt and I'll write a follow up. 

I think that all of the stories would be appropriate for young adults and the more mature reader too. I know that the girls in my halfway house will really enjoy this book. I will be donating my copy there.

If your a fan of Historical Romances then I know you'll like these. And I'll even tell you where you can purchase this collection. Tales of the Heart is available at Barnes and Noble and Christian Book (dot)com. 

Here's the product info:

Format: Paperback
Number of Pages: 400
Vendor: Whitaker House Publishers
Publication Date: 2010
Dimensions: 8.25 X 5.32 (inches)
ISBN: 1603741674ISBN-13: 9781603741675


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Whitaker House. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The Walk by Shaun Alexander-Review

Re-post from my original post found here.

The cover boasts Clear Direction and Spiritual Power for Your Life . . . and on the back cover your asked Are you walking with God, dragging your feet, or running ahead of Him? Take the first step in living at God's pace.

Personally this reader is seeking to do just exactly that Walking with God.

Interested? Go here to read the first chapter.

Alexander shares his concept that God leads His followers through 5 stages of life . . .

. . .The Unbeliever is where we all begin our life. You are a Wanderer or Wonderer. A Wanderer drifts from idea to idea. Wonderers approach life with a sense of purpose. They are aware that something is not complete.
. . .The Believer enters into faith by a simple confession of belief that Jesus is the answer.
. . . The Example is a Believer that has matured spiritually. The life of an Example reflects more of Christ and less of themselves. They submit their will to the Lord’s will. Their approach to the world changes, their minds are changed and the way they live changes.
. . .The Teacher is the coach, mentor, the helper, the trainer, the educator. He or she helps you develop and keeps you motivated; giving you the background and the foundation you need to take your life and faith to the next level. The Teacher helps to mold and shape a person into the image of Christ.

. . .The Imparter is a person that God has poured His anointing on. He uses an Imparter to do His supernatural work.

About the author:

Shaun Alexander was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks after a standout football career at the University of Alabama. A three-time Pro Bowl selection, in 2005 he set an NFL record by scoring twenty-eight touchdowns. In the same season, he set a team record by gaining 1,880 rushing yards and leading his team to the Super Bowl. Today, Shaun travels the country speaking to business and military audiences, at sports camps, and at churches and Christian conferences—appearing in front of thousands of people. He is a gifted communicator and Bible teacher who points listeners toward exceptional achievement by aligning their lives with God’s perfect will.

And, here's the 700 interview.

When researching this book I found that it is really widely available. Basically at almost all Christian Book Stores.

I found that you can go here and find links to the retail stores. It is also available atAmazon,

Borders and Barnes & Noble.

And lastly what I thought? This one I am on the fence about. I agreed with the 5 stages that Alexander brings out but there are a couple of other theological thoughts that frankly I am just not in agreement with.

A few questions I always ask . .

Would I give this book to someone?

Is this a book that could be considered envaglistic? Could I give this to a non-believer?

Is it theologically sound?

And, since I can't answer the last with complete confidence. Then I have to say that I am on the fence on this one.

What will I do with my copy? I think I will hold onto it and maybe give to another friend and get another opinion and maybe have my questions answered.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group as part of their Blogging For Books bloggers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

What So Proudly We Hailed--James Howard

This is a reprint of the review I posted here.

Normally I don't make a habit of posting the same review on all three of my blogs. But this is one work of fiction that I enjoyed so much that I want to do whatever I can to help the author. This is another one that I'll call a 'sleeper'. I mean that in a good way one of those kinds of books only available (as far as I know) atAmazon 
What So Proudly We Hailed was a fun, suspensful book to read.
It is all about one families struggle to survice after a nuclear attack on the U.S. From the back cover: One family, one old boat, one test of faith to stay alive.
Here's a complete synopsis from theauthor's site:
Imagine what would happen if eighty percent of the United States were without power for three or four months.
All banking and commercial transfers locked up; funds inaccessible.
Wholesale and retail distribution shut down; no computers to manage sales.
Passenger and freight lines grind to a halt; no electricity for the fuel pumps.
No cell phone or landline service; systems down indefinitely.
And the worst aspect of all; a total breakdown of law and order.
This is the setting of James Howard’s novel, What So Proudly We Hailed.
The unthinkable has happened; a limited nuclear missile strike has destroyed the power grid beyond any immediate repair. Jason Ribault, sensing the societal breakdown to come, flees with his family in an old cabin cruiser to wait out the worst of the chaos behind the deserted barrier islands of the South Carolina coast. There they listen to unfolding events on a short-wave radio, not the least of which concerns a hostile political influence that seeks to seize control of a nation struggling to right itself once again. Pursued by their own immediate dangers, the family is pushed farther and farther into the desolate salt marshes where they find other families in hiding. Eventually, anxious to unite with a family member in danger, they turn back into the chaos, to see the full extent of what has happened to the America they knew.
Electric with page-turning suspense, What So Proudly We Hailed is an eye-opening book every American must read.
About the uthor: James Howard is a veteran of the US Navy where he worked with nuclear weapons. He has also spent the last twenty years working in various aspects of heavy industry, including electrical power generation and distribution, and has learned much about our nation’s power grid. These experiences, combined with his devoted study of Bible prophesy, world history, and Islam, make him uniquely qualified to write this novel.

A few endorsements from the Authors site:
Praise for What So Proudly We Hailed -
James Howard has taken some incredibly deep and complex Bible prophecy and with a masterful touch of the pen has unpackaged them in a gripping, modern day story that makes the concepts easily digestible and palatable to today’s readers.
- Michael Lewis, Senior Pastor, Cathedral of Praise church, Charleston, SC
I recommend this book…excellent story…timely and well thought out.
- Kirk Lowe, Screenwriter, Vice President of the Lowcountry Christian Fiction Writers
James Howard has an amazing way of holding a person’s interest. What So Proudly We Hailed is superbly written. I recommend it to anyone and everyone.
- Mike Lowry, Associate Pastor, Northwoods Assembly Church, North Charleston, SC
Product information:
TITLE: What So Proudly We Hailed
AUTHOR: James Howard
PUBLISHER: CreateSpace
PAGES: 280
ISBN: 978-1453672433


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free directly from the author through Bostick Communications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Book Review

Russia's Prestige: Historical Architecture by KASHIF PARVAIZ

                              This is a reprint of the orginal review I posted here. 

Interesting book filled with photo's and information about some amazing buildings.
Here's the video trailer from the publisher. . . 




Here's the product discription provided by the publisher. . .
...Since medieval times, Russian architecture has reflected this powerful nation’s history.Take the author's journey through time, beginning with the tiny state of Keiven Rus’ and culminating with modern-day Russia, examine the lives of men who devoted everything to transform their dreams into architectural gems and how these structures related to the nation’s state of affairs.Look across the timeline of Russia’s main historical periods, their evolution and impact on the vision of Russia. The biographies of the architects included in the book enrich the readers experience by letting them get a feel for the environment that feed the architect's genius.Whether enjoying this book as an easy read or while using it in academics, you are bound to be swept away by the story. Rich, compelling and evocative, this book will enhance your imagination and pique your curiosity in the architecture of Russia. “Yet, however beautiful the vision drawn up by the words on a page, there is no substitute for the real adventure of Russia unless you visually experience it yourself. Enjoy the trip as much as I have.” - KASHIF PARVAIZ

Author Information...
With advanced degrees in both Architecture and Structural Engineering, his experience in the field of architecture and construction began humbly as a handyman while managing his father’s real estate empire. In 2007, Kashif started his own business, Riyaan Developers, a reputable construction firm located in Brooklyn, New York that handles a variety of full scale residential projects. His hobbies include music, photography, fishing and his vast collection of literature on the study of architecture.


Product details...
Paperback
Format: 5.5 x 8.5 paperback white, 412 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (Dec 06, 2010)
ISBN10: 1432766112
ISBN13: 9781432766115
Genre: ARCHITECTURE / Regional

Before I tell you where you can buy it here's what I thought . . .
It is a rather large paperback of 412 pages filled with some amazing photo's of some amazing buildings. But for this reader the cover price of $34.95 is way more than I think an average shopper would spend. And, way more than I would even consider. It is well put together and I think the attention to detail is great. The photo's are all black and white. The text is rather large so it makes me wonder if it is large just to make the book a little bigger to make it seem more worth the price. 
Updated 2016 this book is available on Amazon now for $75.64
I did not read this book. I did look at the photo's and, maybe if I had taken the time to read it I would have been able to offer a little more than just my opinion of the cost. 

Here is a review I found on Amazon. . . A Fine Blend of History and Art: Finding Russiabygradyharp
Customer Rating: See Detailed Ratings Kashif Parvaiz writes like a man possessed - and that is a compliment! He has obviously spent many hours of research to produce this excellent book that studies Russian history by examining the development of the architecture of that mysterious country. Parvaiz takes the reader as a fellow traveler on a journey that begins in the year 988 and ends with present day Russia. Much of the history of Russia...

This book is available at Amazon and I noticed when I checked on it for the link that there are only 4 left in stock! 
It is also available at Barnes and Noble and directly from the publisher. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free directly from the author through Bostick Communications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Murder By Another Name-Book Review (Reprint)

Murder by Another Name by Jo Stone

The Following Review is a reprint of the original review I posted here. 

Author Jo Stone takes on the FDA and breast implant manufacturers in her new thriller as Janet Stephenson, Denver trial lawyer, dodges corporate intrigue, murderous lackeys and attempted cover up while she seeks justice for a client who is dying of cancer from her silicone breast implant.Parker, CO - Nov 3, 2010 - Novelist Jo Stone announces the release of her new legal and medical thriller, Murder by Another Name. Crime and corporate intrigue propel this captivating murder mystery as noted trial lawyer Stone uses her experience trying silicone gel breast implant cases to provide palpable reality to her novel's courtroom suspense. Pamela Lawson just wants her figure back after childbirth. A plastic surgeon and the industry spokesman for the new Mammselle foam coated implant, Dr. Dan MacNamara is sure the Mammselle implant is perfect for his patient, but neither he nor Pamela know that the manufacturer has concealed the results of secret internal studies that show all animals they tested have developed liver cancer.Sherri Barker, a detail person for the manufacturer and Dr. MacNamara's mistress, has just delivered to MacNamara the details of these studies when she is killed by a car bomb, and soon Dr. MacNamara's life is also in danger from assassins hired by the silicone manufacturer and one of its corporate cohorts. Meanwhile a television reporter and an FDA investigator are preparing to air a special on the new implants.Denver trial lawyer Janet Stephenson must navigate the minefields of corporate machination and attempted murder while trying to bring a grand jury indictment against the manufacturer for her client Pamela Lawson, now awaiting a liver transplant for her liver cancer. The worlds of criminal and civil law merge within the thrilling legal twists and turns of the ensuing courtroom drama as Janet seeks justice for the lives lost or ruined by corporate greed.

Here's the video trailer . . .


What I thought . . .
. . . Keeps you on the edge of your seat. From page one your drawn in. I mean within the first pages there is a secret rondevou and a car bombing. 
. . . This is one that I fell for each and every character from Janet the lawyer, Pamela the poor woman with cancer to the eccentric chemists. 
. . . One think I really didn't like is it is looooooooong. Don't get me wrong I love a good long book but for me the story just kept going on and on. I couldn't wait to get to the end. 
. . . And, would I spend the sugessted retail price? Maybe if I had a gift card. But otherwise I mean my word $25.95? I would suggest shopping around for a good deal. 

Here's the product info:
ISBN: 978-1-4327-6562-0
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Date of publish: Oct 30, 2010
Pages: 504
S.R.P.: $25.95

For more info. visit the authors site. Clickhere. You can purchase the Kindle version atAmazon. And, it is available at Barnes & Noble. (click on the 'words in Blue' for the links)


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author through Bostick Communications as part of their bloggers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

A Heart Beat Away--Michael Palmer

A Heart Beat Away--Michael Palmer

This reviews was originally posted here. .Reprint of the original post

Boasted as a Political,Medical, Suspense, Thriller is right on the mark for the newest book by Michael Palmer.

Here's the synopsis from the back cover:
The New York Times bestselling author and master of suspense delivers another novel at the crossroads of politics and medicine in this shocker of a thriller
On the night of the State of the Union address, President James Allaire expects to give the speech of his career. But no one anticipates the terrifying turn of events that forces him to quarantine everyone in the Capitol building. A terrorist group calling itself “Genesis” has unleashed WRX3883, a deadly, highly contagious virus, into the building. No one fully knows the deadly effect of the germ except for the team responsible for its development—a team headed by Allaire, himself. The only one who might be able to help is virologist Griffin Rhodes, currently in solitary confinement in a maximum security federal prison for alleged terrorist acts, including the attempted theft of WRX3883 from the lab where he worked. Rhodes has no idea why he has been arrested, but whenAllaire offers to free him in exchange for his help combating the virus, he reluctantly agrees to do what he can to support the government that has imprisoned him without apparent cause.
Meanwhile, every single person in line for presidential succession is trapped inside the Capitol—every person except one: the Director of Homeland Security, who is safely at home in Minnesota, having been selected as the “Designated Survivor” for this event. With enemies both named and unnamed closing in, and the security of the nation at stake, Griff must unravel the mysteries of WRX3883 without violating his pledge as a scientist to use no animal testing in his experiments…and time is running out. Tense, thrilling, and entirely plausible, A Heartbeat Away will make you reflect, wonder, and be truly afraid.

What I thought of it?
I was drawn in. It was an interesting story fitting all the descriptions as boasted above . . . tense, thrilling a shocker. . . and a few more like suspenseful and engrossing. It is a long book. Plan yourself a long weekend to read it because you won't want to put it down!

Here's a link to the authors blog for a little more info. And you can go Here to read the first chapter. 

I found it available at Amazon. Click Here. 

BTW. . . My label Adult means that it isn't a childrens book. An older teen would probably enjoy it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author in cooperation with Bostick Communications as part of theirbloggers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Fame 'The First Born Series' Karen Kingsbury

                                            

This post is a reprint of the original review I posted here.

June 2011...I am probably the only person around that has never read a Karen Kingsbury book.  I guess I have been under a rock.  

I have enjoyed each book in this series.  I loved the stories. 

I loved the characters.  

Although it is a series the author does an excellent job of  fillin' the reader into what was going on in previous books. 

I think each book can stand alone.  

But I recommend searching them out . . . getting the first one

and reading them all the way through.   Take a long weekend and enjoyed some good Great reading!

One of the things that I think is so great is Miss Kingsbury does

an amazing job of sharing her faith and introducing the reader

to faith in God without being preachy.

If you haven't run across these books check them out. Buy the group as a present for a friend,  or a present for yourself. They are great for any age!

For more info visit the author here. 

This review is posted at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Christian Book (dot) com

Click on the bold to purchase or read additional reviews. 

This review was not solicited by a publisher or publicist.