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Sunday, December 1, 2019

Book Review: Iggy and Oz: The plastic Dinos of Doom By: JJ Johnson on tour with JustRead Tours

Iggy & Oz- The Plastic Dinos of Doom

ABOUT THE BOOK
What if hundreds of plastic toy dinosaurs suddenly came to life- Could you find a way to stop them...? 

Iggy Risner is your typical wise-cracking twelve year old. When his younger brother, Oz, wakes him in the middle of the night claiming he heard a monster in the attic, Iggy takes him upstairs to prove him wrong. But instead of a flesh-eating beast, they discover hundreds of their toy plastic dinosaurs that have mysteriously come to life.

When the dinos escape the attic and start terrorizing young kids in the neighborhood, and trampling flower beds, somehow Iggy, Oz, and their friends must catch the plastic dinos of doom before the damage escalates. But what do you do when your parent's doubt your story, and a group of clueless neighborhood bullies stand in the way? 

For Iggy & Oz- Catching the little beast may prove to be easier said, than done.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
J.J.   Johnson
(Taken from his goodreads profile) 
Hi, my name is J.J. and I love to write, read, and drink coffee. As I write this I’m sitting in a local brewery sipping a espresso. There are few things in life that I feel need precise division with no room for error, coffee is one of them.

I love comic books, writing fun adventurous Science Fiction, and wasting countless hours on Social Media.




MY THOUGHTS

When I selected this book for review, I had my 8 year old in mind. I did not realize that it would be loved by myself, my 8 and 6 year old. This book is narrated by Izzy. He is a 12 year old boy with a younger brother named Oz. This book had us laughing out loud. I love how the author deals with some topics that 12 and 9 year olds face. This includes: Parental relationships  (and the fear of waking your parents when they are sleeping), bullying, and what to do with annoying friends. (We love them anyways).  I love how the chapters are "Captain's Log: 001 or 002. This book features cute, likeable characters, an entertaining storyline and so much more. This is a great bed time read that your kids will want to read every night. 

My favorite quote: " One lesson I learned when as a wee little pup - life will shovel a bunch of stuff on you. All you need to do is move on and keep going" (Chapter 2) 

I received a copy of this book through JustRead and the publisher. All thoughts are my own. 


Sunday, November 24, 2019

Book Review: Full Circle From Hollywood to Real Life and Back Again By Andrea Barber




ABOUT THE BOOK
She grew up in front of the world on the beloved sitcom Full House, but then actress Andrea Barber abruptly left Hollywood. Why did she leave and what did she do for twenty years out of the spotlight before returning to television? This is her funny and inspiring memoir of fame, heartache, resilience—and the reboot of a lifetime . . .
 
When Kimmy Gibbler burst into the Tanners’ home on Full House in 1987, audiences immediately connected with the confident and quirky pre-teen character, played by ten-year-old actress Andrea Barber. During an eight-season run on one of the most popular series of the ‘80s and ‘90s, Andrea came of age in front of millions. But she was as far removed from her character as a girl can get. The introverted young star was plagued with self-doubt, insecurities, and debilitating anxieties that left her questioning her identity after the show’s cancelation. Andrea wouldn’t return to the public eye until 2016, for Fuller House. So what happened in those intervening decades that Andrea jokingly calls “the lost years”?

For starters, Andrea never stopped working. But it was on a series of life-changing transitions: earning a college degree, then a Master’s, building a career in international education, getting married, and starting a family. She also faced some unforeseeable transitions: navigating a sudden divorce after nearly twelve years of marriage, and second-guessing her capabilities as a single mother. But it was her devastating bout with post-partum anxiety and depression that derailed Andrea’s life—and became a crucial turning point.
 
Full Circle is a raw, refreshingly honest look into the life of a celebrity who has never been fully comfortable in the spotlight. Here Andrea shares her deeply personal struggles with mental health in a way she has never done before. She opens up about fighting her way back and finding solace—while finding herself—all before her life came full circle with her costars and lifelong friends on Fuller House. Sharing her journey from child star, to champion of mental health, and back to stardom, Andrea writes in a way that feels like catching up with an old friend.



MY THOUGHTS
I grew up watching Full House. I looked forward to it every friday night. Growing up I would LIVE for TGIF line ups that included Full House, Step by Step and Family Matters. Still amazing shows to watch. When I saw this book available for review on Netgalley, I jumped on it. I prayed that I would be approved for it. I started reading this book immediately and loved every minute of it. 

I love reading biographies. I love knowing how people got to where they are, and more about them as a person. When you think of Andrea Barber - she is known for loud clothes, and being the annoying neighbor on Full House. While I read, I got to know the REAL Andrea Barber. I learned that she did not  like the outfit choices on full house. I learned she was so opposite of who she played on tv. 

I loved hearing about her big break and how she ended up on full house. I loved reading about her. This book she opens up about her struggles of being a child star. I love her style of writing. I laughed a lot in this book. 

I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. I am grateful for the experience. 

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Book Review and Giveaway: Deadly Christmas Pretense Author: Dana Mentink --- On Tour with Celebrate Lit

Deadly Christmas Pretense FB Banner

About the Book


Book: Deadly Christmas Pretense
Author: Dana Mentink
Genre:  Christian Suspense, Mystery, Romance
Release Date: November 4, 2019
Deadly Christmas Pretense Cover
.A cowboy to her rescue…but she’s not who he thinks she is.
Posing as her sister for Christmas is the only way to save her, but Maggie Lofton needs help—even if it means working with her twin’s cowboy ex-boyfriend, Liam Pike. But between the bull’s-eye on her back and the dangerous connection she’s forming with Liam, Maggie’s mission is harder than expected. Will their tenuous partnership be enough to shield her when the killer closes in?
Book #2 in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Dana-MentinkDana Mentink is a two time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a Holt Medallion winner. She is a national bestselling author of over forty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Harvest House. Dana was thrilled to be a semi-finalist in the Jeanne Robertson Comedy With Class Competition. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with Papa Bear, teen bear cubs affectionately nicknamed Yogi and Boo Boo, Junie, the  nutty terrier, a chubby box turtle and a feisty parakeet. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.)

More from Dana

I just love Christmas, don’t you? In our area we have a lovely holiday train. It’s an old steam type train which is decked out in lights for festive holiday tours. I was so thrilled that this cover features just such a train. Of course, in the novel the train is the scene of hair raising danger! Maggie, our heroine in this novel, is a cook. She serves up some mouth watering dishes (when she’s not dodging a killer.) I thought perhaps you might enjoy a Mentink holiday family recipe! God bless you as we enter this holiday season!

My Thoughts

I am a huge fan of this author. I try and read everything that comes  out. One thing that you will experience is heart pounding suspense with twists and turns. This book is the 2nd book in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboy Series. I have read both books, but both in the series can be read as a standalone. In this book we meet Liam and Tammy. Liam is a cowboy at Roughwater - and Tammy is a past relationship that did not work out. Liam sees Tammy's car go flying by and is in danger of being hit by the train. Who would go after Tammy? Who is coming after her? This book is filled with twists and turns - and will leave you guessing. 

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program. 

Blog Stops

Among the Reads, November 1
Emily Yager, November 1
KarenSueHadley , November 2
Blogging With Carol, November 2
Batya’s Bits, November 2
Bigreadersite, November 3
She Lives to Read, November 3
Genesis 5020, November 4
mpbooks, November 4
Betti Mace, November 5
Quiet Workings, November 5
Older & Smarter?, November 7
Maureen’s Musings, November 7
Splashes of Joy , November  8
Moments, November 8
EmpowerMoms, November 9
Remembrancy, November 10
Pause for Tales, November 10
For the Love of Books, November 11
Hallie Reads, November 11
Daysong Reflections, November 12
Texas Book-aholic, November 13
janicesbookreviews, November 14
Inklings and notions, November 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize package of a  a book necklace, Amazon gift card, and a paperback copy of the book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Review and Giveaway: Leaders, Nations, & God By: Marta E. Greenman On Tour with Celebrate Lit

Leaders nations and god FB banner

About the Book:

Leaders, Nations, and God Book Cover

Book: Leaders, Nations, & God
Author: Marta E. Greenman
Genre: Non-Fiction, Christian Bible Study
Release Date: September 19, 2013
LEADERS, NATIONS, AND GOD invites readers to a six-week journey to explore the Bible’s message for the nations of the world, their leaders, and for Christians who live as citizens of those nations. By focusing on the biblical history of Israel and the United States, the reader discovers the nature of true, faithful leadership and the consequences when a leader compromises, as well as the sorts of nations that God may bless. Marta E. Greenman helps readers understand how scriptural principles apply to nations and to individuals alike.
By asking and answering these questions, the paths of humble obedience for individuals and nations become clear.
Each day’s study begins by encouraging the reader to write their prayer before they begin to examine the biblical history of Israel and/or the United States. The reader gathers insights from scripture to bring understanding of God’s ideal for nations and leaders. Questions dig deeply into lessons from the Bible, history, and the influences on one’s own life. Each day’s study comes with highlighted “Questions to Ponder” and ends with prayer.
If you find yourself drawn to explore God’s will for nations and individuals, if you wonder what biblical obedience might look like in your daily life, then Leaders, Nations, and God will meet your need for a study grounded in the Bible and focused on God’s desires for His people.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author:

Marta Head
For over twenty years, Marta has traveled extensively as a missionary, evangelist and Bible teacher sharing God’s message of truth and redemption. She is a teacher of teachers. She is host of Under God Radio Show and Co-host of Refining Friends. She is the author of three Bible studies, Bound to Be FreeLeaders, Nations, and God, and ACTs420NOW. Marta founded Words of Grace & Truth in 2011 whose mission is to teach God’s Word to the nations and teach others to do the same. She has been married for over twenty-five years to Marshall and they reside in the Dallas, Texas area.

More from Marta

What a profound statement made by George Santayana, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” As Christians we need to learn those who have gone before us. In Leaders, Nations, and God we look at the history of the Children of Israel and America’s Founding Fathers to become men and women who understand the time and know how to navigate the troubled waters of today. We look at questions like “Who does God consider to be a leader?” What kind of nation does the Lord bless?” “Did America’s Founding Fathers really set up our country on Judeo-Christian values?”

My Thoughts

I chose to review this book, because two of my favorite things are history and religion. My BA is a major in history and a minor in religion. It always fascinates me to find out where people came from, and how their background shaped them. This book was a great read. My children even enjoyed looking at it. I love how much research has gone into this book. I love how she asks questions through out it. I loved the Bible study scavenger hunts through out it. This book looks in depth about the leaders of Isreal were dealt with by God. This is perfect for a family study. 

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program. All thoughts are my own.

Blog Stops

Mary Hake, October 22
Pause for Tales, October 26
Godly Book reviews, October 27
Texas Book-aholic, October 30
janicesbookreviews, October 31
She Lives to Read, November 1
A Reader’s Brain, November 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marta is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Book Review and Giveaway: Fatal Memories by Tanya Stowe on tour with Celebrate Lit

Fatal Memories FB Banner


About the Book

Fatal Memories Cover

Book: Fatal Memories
Author: Tanya Stowe
Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense
Release Date: September 1, 2019
She was framed! Or was she?
If only she could remember…
Border patrol agent Jocelyn Walker has no memory of how she turned up unconscious with a cache of drugs—or why a gang is dead set on killing her. With evidence stacking up against her, Joss takes refuge with driven DEA agent Dylan Murphy, who guards—and suspects— her. But will finally trusting each other lead them into a trap they’ll never escape?

Click here to grab your copy!

About the Author

Tanya Stowe

Tanya Stowe is a Christian Fiction author with an unexpected edge. She is married to the love of her life, her high school sweetheart. They have four children and twenty-one grandchildren, a true adventure. She fills her books with the unusual…mysteries and exotic travel, even a murder or two. No matter where Tanya takes you…on a trip to foreign lands or a suspenseful journey packed with danger…be prepared for the extraordinary.

More from Tanya

It has long been my husband’s desire to travel the country in a motorhome. So when he retired three years ago, we sold our home and hit the road. We lived in the high desert region of Southern California for almost 37 years. I thought it was going to be a rough transition, but it wasn’t…especially since I came to love one of our new locations.
We spend the winter months in southern Arizona where Fatal Memories is set. I love everything about this unique place. We are surrounded by incredible ecosystems…the Sonoran and Chihuahua deserts collide there, so a different environment is around every corner. The beauty of the mountains, streams and lakes (yes, there’s water in southern Arizona—monsoons come up from Baja every summer) and the wildlife is amazing. I’ve been told black panthers have been known to cross the border from Mexico and roam the countryside. My husband and I bought a Jeep so we could go off-roading to see these sites up close and personal.
In addition to all these amazing natural wonders, history jumps out and grabs me. I’m just twenty minutes from Tombstone. Fort Huachuca and Fort Bowie are forty miles away in different directions. Every time I turn around, there’s a history making site or event to grab my interest. I hope you can see why I fell in love with my new home. I hope you will too when you read Fatal Memories.
By the way…if you interested, I write about our travels in my monthly newsletter. Be sure to check it out!

My Thoughts

Ok, so I love reading anything that Love Inspired puts out - especially the suspense genre. I don't believe I have read this author before, but I will be on the lookout for other books. This book starts out with a bang --- and DOES NOT LET UP. Our main character, Joss, who is a border control agent - has no memory to how she ended up with a bunch of drugs --- and why there are people out to kill her. Enter Dylan, the DEA agent that is assigned to case. He wants to get to the truth, and help Joss remember. 

This book is jam packed with mystery, suspense, twists and turns and romance. It is well worth the read. 

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program. All thoughts are my own. 

Blog Stops

Bigreadersite , October 16
Genesis 5020, October 17
The Avid Reader, October 17
Emily Yager, October 18
Batya’s Bits, October 19
Andy Carmichael, October 20
EmpowerMoms, October 22
Betti Mace, October 23
Daysong Reflections, October 24
Mary Hake,October 24
Older & Smarter?, October 25
Blogging With Carol, October 25
Texas Book-aholic, October 27
janicesbookreviews, October 28
Gail Hollingsworth, October 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tanya is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.