My son Kemper: 1 yr old
My daughter Shaelyn: 3 yrs old
(not pictured Teegan: 9 yr old stepson. He wasn't with us for Halloween this year. :( )
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Happy Halloween!
Happy Halloween from the MaMa's Book Corner kids! Hope you guys had a wonderful night! We sure did... :)
Eggs and Bubble Gum
Eggs and Bubble Gum
Author: Leon Terrell Ash
Pages: 34
I've been asked by the author to let all you lovely readers know about his children's book.
Here is the link to where you can check the book out: www.terrellash.com
It is also available on kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Eggs-
Author's Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LeonTerrellAshFans
Author's Blog: http://terrellash.blogspot.com/
Author's Twitter: https://twitter.com/TerrellAsh
Summary:
Tanner was told by his teacher that anything is possible and that he could do anything he believed. Once Tanner gets confronted by words of negativity stating what he can’t do, Tanner reminds his mother through simple childhood behavior that anything can be done!
Author: Leon Terrell Ash
Pages: 34
I've been asked by the author to let all you lovely readers know about his children's book.
Here is the link to where you can check the book out: www.terrellash.com
It is also available on kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Eggs-
Author's Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LeonTerrellAshFans
Author's Blog: http://terrellash.blogspot.com/
Author's Twitter: https://twitter.com/TerrellAsh
Summary:
Tanner was told by his teacher that anything is possible and that he could do anything he believed. Once Tanner gets confronted by words of negativity stating what he can’t do, Tanner reminds his mother through simple childhood behavior that anything can be done!
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
A Hook in the Sky: Review
A Hook in the Sky
Author: Claude Nougat
Pages: 245
Summary:
A HOOK IN THE SKY is a BB novel - for Baby Boomers as YA novels are for Young Adults. Robert, a dashing Frenchman in his early sixties, is involved in humanitarian aid at the United Nations and Kay, his wife, a chic Manhattan socialite, is passionate about contemporary art. She is fifteen years younger and runs a flourishing art gallery in Chelsea. The couple is childless, much to Robert’s disappointment. Everything pulls them apart, their culture, tastes and age. Until he retires, neither are aware of the differences.
When Robert attempts a second life as a painter displaying his old-fashioned inclination for conventional photo-realism, Kay is dismayed. They fight over art - he’s square, she’s cool - but what is at stake is their relationship. After a period of separation marked by sexual adventures and disenchantment, Robert attempts to remodel himself as a contemporary artist to win back his wife. He dreams up a weird installation called a "Hook in the Sky" that could change their lives forever but wreaks havoc around them...
My Thoughts:
Robert is a newly retired man who worked for the United Nations. After he retires he's inspired to start painting again, something he hasn't done since he was a child. He dreams of being an artist but his much younger wife has a completely different taste in art. After retirement the couple starts to recognize all the differences between them and their marriage starts to dissolve.
I want to start off by saying that this book is aimed towards older readers. It's a novel for Baby Boomers so i may be too young to truly appreciate this book the way an older reader would. With that being said, I still did enjoy this story. I really did not like Robert's wife Kay very much. I felt that she was very cold at times and that she was very self-centered. You can tell that the author was very knowledgeable about the United Nations and about art as well. I hope that at that age I don't have a marriage like Robert and Kay had. If you are a Baby Boomer I think that you would really enjoy this book and even more so if you are a fan of art.
Author Talk:
Here's a little bit of information about the author in her own words:
Like the protagonist in A HOOK, I've retired after 25 years of work in the United Nations (at the close of my career in FAO, I was director for Europe and Central Asia) and I first took up painting, a lifelong passion I inherited from my mother who is a professional painter. Much of the contemporary art scene described in A HOOK is based on my own experience - I participated in 15 shows and I certainly share in my protag's ambivalent feelings towards conceptual art. Where I differ from him is that I'm a woman and my marriage is definitely not on the rocks (!). I live with my Sicilian husband in Rome and while we don't have pets, we have two (grown-up) children. You will find more information on my Amazon author page and blog (I post at least once a week about art, books and social issues).
Goodreads Author Page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4992057.Claude_Nougat
Claude's Blog: http://claudenougat.blogspot.com/
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Claude-Nougat/e/B0054DBGLK
Here's a link to where you can get this book: http://www.amazon.com/Hook-Sky-Claude-Nougat/dp/1479333603/ref=la_B0054DBGLK_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1351646587&sr=1-1
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Claude Nougat
Pages: 245
A HOOK IN THE SKY is a BB novel - for Baby Boomers as YA novels are for Young Adults. Robert, a dashing Frenchman in his early sixties, is involved in humanitarian aid at the United Nations and Kay, his wife, a chic Manhattan socialite, is passionate about contemporary art. She is fifteen years younger and runs a flourishing art gallery in Chelsea. The couple is childless, much to Robert’s disappointment. Everything pulls them apart, their culture, tastes and age. Until he retires, neither are aware of the differences.
When Robert attempts a second life as a painter displaying his old-fashioned inclination for conventional photo-realism, Kay is dismayed. They fight over art - he’s square, she’s cool - but what is at stake is their relationship. After a period of separation marked by sexual adventures and disenchantment, Robert attempts to remodel himself as a contemporary artist to win back his wife. He dreams up a weird installation called a "Hook in the Sky" that could change their lives forever but wreaks havoc around them...
My Thoughts:
Robert is a newly retired man who worked for the United Nations. After he retires he's inspired to start painting again, something he hasn't done since he was a child. He dreams of being an artist but his much younger wife has a completely different taste in art. After retirement the couple starts to recognize all the differences between them and their marriage starts to dissolve.
I want to start off by saying that this book is aimed towards older readers. It's a novel for Baby Boomers so i may be too young to truly appreciate this book the way an older reader would. With that being said, I still did enjoy this story. I really did not like Robert's wife Kay very much. I felt that she was very cold at times and that she was very self-centered. You can tell that the author was very knowledgeable about the United Nations and about art as well. I hope that at that age I don't have a marriage like Robert and Kay had. If you are a Baby Boomer I think that you would really enjoy this book and even more so if you are a fan of art.
Author Talk:
Here's a little bit of information about the author in her own words:
Like the protagonist in A HOOK, I've retired after 25 years of work in the United Nations (at the close of my career in FAO, I was director for Europe and Central Asia) and I first took up painting, a lifelong passion I inherited from my mother who is a professional painter. Much of the contemporary art scene described in A HOOK is based on my own experience - I participated in 15 shows and I certainly share in my protag's ambivalent feelings towards conceptual art. Where I differ from him is that I'm a woman and my marriage is definitely not on the rocks (!). I live with my Sicilian husband in Rome and while we don't have pets, we have two (grown-up) children. You will find more information on my Amazon author page and blog (I post at least once a week about art, books and social issues).
Goodreads Author Page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4992057.Claude_Nougat
Claude's Blog: http://claudenougat.blogspot.com/
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Claude-Nougat/e/B0054DBGLK
Here's a link to where you can get this book: http://www.amazon.com/Hook-Sky-Claude-Nougat/dp/1479333603/ref=la_B0054DBGLK_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1351646587&sr=1-1
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
The Awakening: Review
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Publisher: HarperCollins
Series: Darkest Powers Trilogy #2
Pages: 360
Summary:
If you had met me a few weeks ago, you probably would have described me as an average teenage girl — someone normal. Now my life has changed forever and I’m as far away from normal as it gets. I’m a living science experiment — not only can I see ghosts, but I was genetically altered by a sinister organization call the Edison Group. What does that mean? For starters. I'm a teenage necromancer whose powers are out of control: I raise the dead without even trying. Trust me, that is not a power you want to have. Ever.
Now I’m running for my life with three of my supernatural friends - a charming sorcerer, a cynical werewolf, and a disgruntled witch - and we have to find someone who can help us before the Edison Group finds us first. Or die trying.
My Thoughts:
This series seems to me like you either love it or hate it. I've read so many mixed reviews on this book. Personally, I happen to really like this series, but that's just me. This books starts off right where the first one left off. Chloe discovers that she in indeed a necromancer and not crazy. Not only is she a necromancer, but a genetically-modified necromancer. Chloe and her friends escape the Edison Group and are on the run throughout almost the entire book.
Throughout the story the kids are on the run, hiding in abandoned warehouses, pretty much living on the streets, and doing everything they possibly can in attempt to find a family friend and the father of Simon and Derek. Looking back at the story it did seem like this entire book was just filler, but as I was reading it, it didn't feel that way. So if it is just filler, I guess I still enjoyed it. There was more character building in this book than progression of the storyline is I guess what I'm trying to say.
CAUTION: POTENTIAL SPOILER
There are a lot of moments in this book where it's just Derek and Chloe. Their relationship really seemed to grow and it seems to me that there may be a possibility of them getting together. I'm interested to see how that plays out because I really thought that it was going to be Chloe and Simon together. Chloe seems to grow up a bit in the story as well and becomes a stronger person. One thing that is bother me about this book is Chloe's pendant. It has changed colors from the first book to the second and I really want to know what the significance of this is. I'm sure this will be explained in the next book. All-in-all I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one.
Have you read this series or anything else by this author? What are your thoughts?
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Internal Security: Review
Internal Security
Author: David Darracott
Publisher: Lightning Rod Books
Pages: 346
Summary:
In the biggest news story since 9/11, a deadly bombing stuns the nation - and small-town reporter Tom Darden makes himself some deadly enemies. Investigating the mysterious, fiery attack on a Florida hotel, he chances upon the scoop of a lifetime in the charred remains. His tough questions and bare-knuckled reporting forces him to go on the run as he uncovers a secret plot so explosive it could bring down the government of the United States. Threatened with exposure, the ruthless men behind the plot will stop at nothing to shut him up. For Darden, reporting the truth might just save the nation - but at the cost of his own life.
Author Talk:
David Darracott is the author of novels and short stories, as well as nonfiction for magazines, television, and film productions. He holds a Masters degree in English and received a Hambidge Fellowship in 2009-2010. Though fiction is his passion - first, last, and always - fly fishing and golf run a close second. A graduate of Emory University, he lives in north Atlanta.
Head on over to www.DavidDarracott.com for more information.
My Thoughts:
Tom Darden is a reporter who is struggling to get a big story that could advance his career. When he finds the story of a lifetime he fights to uncover the truth and put the pieces of this puzzle of a story together. His deep interest in uncovering this secret plot puts his life in danger. He believes that the Americans should know the truth about what is going on right in their own country, but is it worth risking his life?
I found this book to be very believable which made it that much better. It's amazing to think about what could be going on in our country that we don't even know about. It really makes you wonder what the government could really be hiding from us all. This book really opens your eyes up to things that really go on in our world such as torture. It's absolutely crazy that human beings could do that to one another.
I kind of wish that the epilogue would have included more information in regards to his family. That being said, I was shocked at the ending because it wasn't predictable. I really liked the fact that the ending was unpredictable. It makes this story different from most of the others out there. I would love to read more by this author and I look forward to seeing what he comes up with next!
To snag a copy of this book for yourself, head on over to:
http://www.amazon.com/Internal-Security-David-Darracott/dp/1475059000/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1351127147&sr=1-1&keywords=internal+security
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Author: David Darracott
Publisher: Lightning Rod Books
Pages: 346
In the biggest news story since 9/11, a deadly bombing stuns the nation - and small-town reporter Tom Darden makes himself some deadly enemies. Investigating the mysterious, fiery attack on a Florida hotel, he chances upon the scoop of a lifetime in the charred remains. His tough questions and bare-knuckled reporting forces him to go on the run as he uncovers a secret plot so explosive it could bring down the government of the United States. Threatened with exposure, the ruthless men behind the plot will stop at nothing to shut him up. For Darden, reporting the truth might just save the nation - but at the cost of his own life.
Author Talk:
David Darracott is the author of novels and short stories, as well as nonfiction for magazines, television, and film productions. He holds a Masters degree in English and received a Hambidge Fellowship in 2009-2010. Though fiction is his passion - first, last, and always - fly fishing and golf run a close second. A graduate of Emory University, he lives in north Atlanta.
Head on over to www.DavidDarracott.com for more information.
My Thoughts:
Tom Darden is a reporter who is struggling to get a big story that could advance his career. When he finds the story of a lifetime he fights to uncover the truth and put the pieces of this puzzle of a story together. His deep interest in uncovering this secret plot puts his life in danger. He believes that the Americans should know the truth about what is going on right in their own country, but is it worth risking his life?
I found this book to be very believable which made it that much better. It's amazing to think about what could be going on in our country that we don't even know about. It really makes you wonder what the government could really be hiding from us all. This book really opens your eyes up to things that really go on in our world such as torture. It's absolutely crazy that human beings could do that to one another.
I kind of wish that the epilogue would have included more information in regards to his family. That being said, I was shocked at the ending because it wasn't predictable. I really liked the fact that the ending was unpredictable. It makes this story different from most of the others out there. I would love to read more by this author and I look forward to seeing what he comes up with next!
To snag a copy of this book for yourself, head on over to:
http://www.amazon.com/Internal-Security-David-Darracott/dp/1475059000/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1351127147&sr=1-1&keywords=internal+security
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
A Rendezvous to Die For: Review
A Rendezvous to Die For
Author: Betty McMahon
Pages: 266
Author: Betty McMahon
Pages: 266
Summary:
All photographer Cassandra Cassidy wanted to do was settle into the peaceful Minnesota countryside and lick her New York-inflicted emotional wounds. But a photo gig she couldn't pass up has her up to her f-stops trying to get tot he bottom of a gruesome hatchet job that left her nemesis dead and left her near the top of the suspect list. Smoking out the real killer will lead the mystery world's new reluctant sleuth deep into the colorful re-enactor culture and into dangerous political intrigue at the Indian reservation. See what develops as Cassandra uses her non-existent detecting skills - and short list of acquaintances - to track down the real killer before she becomes more valuable to him dead than alive.
Author Talk:
Betty McMahon is an award-winning writer who's worn many hats: newspaper reporter/editor/photographer, magazine editor, copywriter, and more. A Rendezvous to Die For is her first novel.
For more information about the author please visit:
My Thoughts:
Cassandra happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time which results in her becoming a murder suspect. Cassandra goes into detective-mode attempting to find out who the real killer is and clear her own name. Her search for the truth puts her in danger and adds her to the killers list of future victims.
This novel is full of suspense and pulls you right into the wild chase. This was a very exciting read and I found myself struggling to put it down. I attempted adding all the clues up and I had several guesses to who the murderer may be. All of my guesses proved to be wrong and I was very surprised at the ending.
If you like mystery, suspense and novels full of action, I highly recommend this book to you. I think you will really enjoy this book, I know I did!
If you'd like to snag a copy of this book for yourself head on over to:
*I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
You Belong to Me: Review
You Belong to Me
Author: Mary Higgins Clark
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 317
When Dr. Susan Chandler decides to use her daily radio talk show to explore
the phenomenon of women who disappear and are later found to have become victims
of killers who prey on the lonely and insecure, she has no idea that she is
exposing herself -- and those closest to her -- to the very terror that she
hopes to warn others against.
Susan sets out to determine who is responsible for an attempt on the life of
a woman who called in to the show offering information on the mysterious
disappearance from a cruise ship, years before, of Regina Clausen, a wealthy
investment advisor. Soon Susan finds herself in a race against time, for not
only does the killer stalk these lonely women, but he seems intent on
eliminating anyone who can possibly further Susan's investigation.
As her search intensifies, Susan finds herself confronted with the realization that one of the men who have become important figures in her life might actually be the killer. And as she gets closer to uncovering his identity, she realizes almost too late that the hunter has become the hunted, and that she herself is marked for murder.
My Thoughts:
I've read almost every single book out there that Mary Higgins Clark has ever written, so when I saw this book and realized that I had yet to read it, I just had to pick it up. I'm so glad I did because I really liked this book.
This novel was so full of suspense that I didn't want to put it down until I figured out who the killer was. You get to view the story through multiple character's eyes, including Susan's and the killers. It was interesting to read what each character was thinking, feeling, and experiencing during the story.
Throughout the story I had several suspects in mind who I thought could possibly be the killer. (I always play this game when reading books and try to figure out who the bad guy is.) I did figure out who the murderer was before it was revealed at the end of the book but that may be due to the fact that I've read so many of her novels. In my opinion, Clark is a master storyteller. I absolutely love her writing.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes an exciting, suspenseful hang-onto-the-edge-of-your-seat kind of book.
What is your favorite Mary Higgins Clark book if you've read any? I would love to know in the comments below! (That rhymed . . . )
Author: Mary Higgins Clark
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 317
Summary:
A killer who targets lonely women on cruise ships is at the center of Mary
Higgins Clark's newest thriller You Belong to Me, a masterful combination
of page-turning suspense and classic mystery.
As her search intensifies, Susan finds herself confronted with the realization that one of the men who have become important figures in her life might actually be the killer. And as she gets closer to uncovering his identity, she realizes almost too late that the hunter has become the hunted, and that she herself is marked for murder.
My Thoughts:
I've read almost every single book out there that Mary Higgins Clark has ever written, so when I saw this book and realized that I had yet to read it, I just had to pick it up. I'm so glad I did because I really liked this book.
This novel was so full of suspense that I didn't want to put it down until I figured out who the killer was. You get to view the story through multiple character's eyes, including Susan's and the killers. It was interesting to read what each character was thinking, feeling, and experiencing during the story.
Throughout the story I had several suspects in mind who I thought could possibly be the killer. (I always play this game when reading books and try to figure out who the bad guy is.) I did figure out who the murderer was before it was revealed at the end of the book but that may be due to the fact that I've read so many of her novels. In my opinion, Clark is a master storyteller. I absolutely love her writing.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes an exciting, suspenseful hang-onto-the-edge-of-your-seat kind of book.
What is your favorite Mary Higgins Clark book if you've read any? I would love to know in the comments below! (That rhymed . . . )
Thursday, October 11, 2012
The Queensford Family: Review
The Queensford Family
Author: Shelley M. Hollenbeck
Publisher: Dorrance Publishing Co.
Pages: 152
Summary:
Seven invited tourists and their tour-guide driver are storm-isolated at Queensford Castle, Cock Robin Island, California. In the grand tradition of Agatha Christie's "And Then There Were None," all seven die, one by one. Who killed them - their Native American driver? Their host? The butler? The answer is much more complicated than Christie's, involving the characters' past lives and a centuries-old prophecy heralding divine retribution
My Thoughts:
I thought that this book seemed fairly interesting from the summary. Seven tourists travel to a castle on an island, get stranded there, and all die. I was excited to see how it would all play out and also to find out "whodunit".
The story was very interesting as you got to know the characters more and you find out some secret history regarding the Queensford family. The whole time you are reading the novel you're trying to figure out who's going to be the next victim, how they are going to die, and who is behind all of the killings. I didn't want to stop reading because I so badly wanted to find out who the murderer was, but sadly I was not very satisfied with the ending. I felt that it could have been better. But all-in-all it was a pretty good book and I did enjoy it.
*I received a complimentary copy of The Queensford Family as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.
To get a copy for yourself visit: http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+7XZRvv+index.html
Author: Shelley M. Hollenbeck
Publisher: Dorrance Publishing Co.
Pages: 152
Summary:Seven invited tourists and their tour-guide driver are storm-isolated at Queensford Castle, Cock Robin Island, California. In the grand tradition of Agatha Christie's "And Then There Were None," all seven die, one by one. Who killed them - their Native American driver? Their host? The butler? The answer is much more complicated than Christie's, involving the characters' past lives and a centuries-old prophecy heralding divine retribution
My Thoughts:
I thought that this book seemed fairly interesting from the summary. Seven tourists travel to a castle on an island, get stranded there, and all die. I was excited to see how it would all play out and also to find out "whodunit".
The story was very interesting as you got to know the characters more and you find out some secret history regarding the Queensford family. The whole time you are reading the novel you're trying to figure out who's going to be the next victim, how they are going to die, and who is behind all of the killings. I didn't want to stop reading because I so badly wanted to find out who the murderer was, but sadly I was not very satisfied with the ending. I felt that it could have been better. But all-in-all it was a pretty good book and I did enjoy it.
*I received a complimentary copy of The Queensford Family as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.
To get a copy for yourself visit: http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+7XZRvv+index.html
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Blogger Mess Up?
I just wanted to apologize to anyone who may be confused. Apparently Blogger has made some of my older posts such as the Teaser Tuesday post look like it was published today. . . well it wasn't! Today is Wednesday, not Tuesday. So hopefully this will be the only time it does that. Please look below or in the Giveaways section because my first giveaway is live now!
I love my followers!!
Teaser Tuesday
Teaser Tuesdays is a
weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone
can play along! Just do the following:
"If you were a ghost and you bumped into the one living being who could hear you, I'm sure you'd want something from her. To know what they want, you're going to need to ask them."
The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong, page 205
PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT with either the link to your own Teaser Tuesdays post, or share your ' teaser' in a comment here (if you don't have a blog). I'm excited to see your teasers!
- Grab your current read
- Open to a random page
- Share 2 "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
- BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! You don't want to ruin the book for others!
- Share the title and author too, so that other participants can add the book to their TBR lists if they like your teasers!
"If you were a ghost and you bumped into the one living being who could hear you, I'm sure you'd want something from her. To know what they want, you're going to need to ask them."
The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong, page 205
PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT with either the link to your own Teaser Tuesdays post, or share your ' teaser' in a comment here (if you don't have a blog). I'm excited to see your teasers!
Giveaway!
Fall under the spell of Wake—the first book in an achingly beautiful new series by celebrated author Amanda Hocking—and lose yourself to the Watersong.
Gorgeous. Fearless. Dangerous. They're the kind of girls you envy; the kind of girls you want to hate. Strangers in town for the summer, Penn, Lexi and Thea have caught everyone's attention—but it’s Gemma who’s attracted theirs. She’s the one they’ve chosen to be part of their group.
Gemma seems to have it all—she’s carefree, pretty, and falling in love with Alex, the boy next door. He’s always been just a friend, but this summer they’ve taken their relationship to the next level, and now there’s no going back. Then one night, Gemma’s ordinary life changes forever. She’s taking a late night swim under the stars when she finds Penn, Lexi and Thea partying on the cove. They invite her to join them, and the next morning she wakes up on the beach feeling groggy and sick, knowing something is different.
Suddenly Gemma is stronger, faster, and more beautiful than ever. But her new powers come with a terrifying price. And as she uncovers the truth, she’s is forced to choose between staying with those she loves—or entering a new world brimming with dark hungers and unimaginable secrets.
Gorgeous. Fearless. Dangerous. They're the kind of girls you envy; the kind of girls you want to hate. Strangers in town for the summer, Penn, Lexi and Thea have caught everyone's attention—but it’s Gemma who’s attracted theirs. She’s the one they’ve chosen to be part of their group.
Gemma seems to have it all—she’s carefree, pretty, and falling in love with Alex, the boy next door. He’s always been just a friend, but this summer they’ve taken their relationship to the next level, and now there’s no going back. Then one night, Gemma’s ordinary life changes forever. She’s taking a late night swim under the stars when she finds Penn, Lexi and Thea partying on the cove. They invite her to join them, and the next morning she wakes up on the beach feeling groggy and sick, knowing something is different.
Suddenly Gemma is stronger, faster, and more beautiful than ever. But her new powers come with a terrifying price. And as she uncovers the truth, she’s is forced to choose between staying with those she loves—or entering a new world brimming with dark hungers and unimaginable secrets.
____________________________________________________________________
I recently reviewed this book and have decided to do Mama's Book Corner's very first giveaway!
Just fill out the Rafflecopter form below to be entered to win this awesome book!
The Wicked Wives: Review
The Wicked Wives
Author: Gus Pelagatti
Publisher: Mill City Press, Inc.
Pages: 296
Summary:
The Wicked Wives is based on the true story of the 1938 Philadelphia murder scandals in which seventeen wives were arrested for murdering their husbands.
Mastermind conspirator Giorgio DiSipio, a stunning lothario and local tailor who preys upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives, convinces twelve of them to kill their spouses for insurance money.
The murder conspiracy is very successful until on lone assistant D.A., Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice.
The Wicked Wives is a story made for Hollywood, combining murder, corruption, treachery, love, lust and phenomenal detail as it vividly captures Depression-era Philadelphia.
Author Talk:
Gus Pelagatti is a practicing trial lawyer with over forty-three years of experience trying civil and criminal cases, including homicide. He is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, limited to attorneys who have been recognized as achieving a standard of excellence as a trial lawyer. He spent years researching the murder scandals and interviewed judges, lawyers, police and neighbors involved in the trials. He was born and raised within blocks of the main conspirator's tailor shop and the homes of many wives convicted of murdering their husbands. Gus lives with his wife, Rita, in Gladwyne, Pa. and is still an active trial attorney in Philadelphia.
My Thoughts:
I love reading murder/crime books but usually I read fiction. I was absolutely intrigued and knew that I had to review this book when I found out it was based on a true story. I have never heard about the Philadelphia murder scandals so it was really interesting to read and learn more about.
You can tell that the author did his research when he wrote this book. During this book you get an inside look into all of the work Tom Rossi did to uncover all of the secrets that the wives and the other people involved in this conspiracy had. I felt like I was watching a really interesting documentary on the Philadelphia murder scandals. His writing just drew me in. I can't imagine ever being able to do that to my family. I can't imagine murdering my husband for money. This novel shows how greedy and evil people can truly be.
There are so many details in this book about the characters and their backgrounds so you really feel like you are there. You feel like you can actually love or hate the characters based on what the author has said about them.
I really enjoyed this book and was not expecting the "twist" in the end!
*I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
To get a copy of this book for yourself:
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Wake: Review
Wake
Author: Amanda Hocking
Publisher: St. Martins Press
Series: Watersong #1
Pages: 309
Author: Amanda Hocking
Publisher: St. Martins Press
Series: Watersong #1
Pages: 309
Summary:
Fall under the spell of Wake—the first book in an achingly beautiful new series by celebrated author Amanda Hocking—and lose yourself to the Watersong.
Gorgeous. Fearless. Dangerous. They're the kind of girls you envy; the kind of girls you want to hate. Strangers in town for the summer, Penn, Lexi and Thea have caught everyone's attention—but it’s Gemma who’s attracted theirs. She’s the one they’ve chosen to be part of their group.
Gemma seems to have it all—she’s carefree, pretty, and falling in love with Alex, the boy next door. He’s always been just a friend, but this summer they’ve taken their relationship to the next level, and now there’s no going back. Then one night, Gemma’s ordinary life changes forever. She’s taking a late night swim under the stars when she finds Penn, Lexi and Thea partying on the cove. They invite her to join them, and the next morning she wakes up on the beach feeling groggy and sick, knowing something is different.
Suddenly Gemma is stronger, faster, and more beautiful than ever. But her new powers come with a terrifying price. And as she uncovers the truth, she’s is forced to choose between staying with those she loves—or entering a new world brimming with dark hungers and unimaginable secrets.
Gorgeous. Fearless. Dangerous. They're the kind of girls you envy; the kind of girls you want to hate. Strangers in town for the summer, Penn, Lexi and Thea have caught everyone's attention—but it’s Gemma who’s attracted theirs. She’s the one they’ve chosen to be part of their group.
Gemma seems to have it all—she’s carefree, pretty, and falling in love with Alex, the boy next door. He’s always been just a friend, but this summer they’ve taken their relationship to the next level, and now there’s no going back. Then one night, Gemma’s ordinary life changes forever. She’s taking a late night swim under the stars when she finds Penn, Lexi and Thea partying on the cove. They invite her to join them, and the next morning she wakes up on the beach feeling groggy and sick, knowing something is different.
Suddenly Gemma is stronger, faster, and more beautiful than ever. But her new powers come with a terrifying price. And as she uncovers the truth, she’s is forced to choose between staying with those she loves—or entering a new world brimming with dark hungers and unimaginable secrets.
Cover Talk:
I think that the cover of this book is absolutely stunning. If you can't tell from the picture, when you turn the book from side to side it has a rainbowy effect! Is rainbowy a word?? It is now!
My Thoughts:
This was the first book that I have read by Amanda Hocking and I can't wait to read more of her work! I think that she is a wonderful author and that her story was unique. This was also my first book about mermaids/sirens! Where have I been?? I do not know! Anyways, I really loved reading this book.
I was sucked into this story and did not want it to end. I enjoyed the characters in this book and I really loved the relationship between Gemma and her sister Harper. I know what it's like to be so different from your siblings and to fight with them but in the end you love them more than anything. I just thought that the relationship between the two was very realistic and that other people can relate to it. I also liked the relationships between the sisters and their men. :) I thought that the guys seemed like really sweet, good guys. *Too bad there aren't more men like them in the real world eh?!*
I don't want to give anything away, but I was really surprised to find out what the sirens were actually like. It's definitely not the view I expected but maybe that's because I grew up watching The Little Mermaid. This book makes you absolutely need to know what's going to happen next so I can not wait to read the next book in this series!
Have you read any books by Amanda Hocking? If so, what did you think of them?
Friday, October 5, 2012
A Difference of Purpose: Review
A Difference of Purpose
A Novel of the American Civil War
Author: Terry Soileau
Pages: 236
Summary:
A DIFFERENCE OF PURPOSE tells the story of 12 year old Jonathan Berkeley, a Confederate drummer boy serving with the famous Orphan Brigade, and his uncle and Godfather, Alexander Wythe, an abolitionist lawyer and captain serving in the Federal army. They wrestle with God and their own inner demons as they confront devastating personal tragedies and search desperately for faith, love, and meaning in a torn and tragic world of civil war.
My Thoughts:
This novel is quite different from the types of books I usually read so I was excited to try it out and see what I thought of it! I got through school with all A's but for some reason I didn't learn much about the Civil War (or any war for that matter) so this book helped me learn more about it.
I found this book intriguing. I really liked how the author focused on the struggles of the characters. The families had a hard time agreeing about what was right and what was wrong. Is killing in the war justifiable? Or is murder simply murder? The characters were also struggling with their faith. Is there a God? If so why would he allow this suffering? Does he hear our prayers? This book portrays the sad truth that many families had to go through with being torn away from their loved ones during the war not knowing if they would ever see them again or not.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
If you are into history I think that you would truly like this book. If you want to grab a copy for yourself here is the link to where you can buy this novel:
http://www.amazon.com/Difference-Of-Purpose-Novel-American/dp/147835805X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349493432&sr=8-1&keywords=A+Difference+of+Purpose
A Novel of the American Civil War
Author: Terry Soileau
Pages: 236
A DIFFERENCE OF PURPOSE tells the story of 12 year old Jonathan Berkeley, a Confederate drummer boy serving with the famous Orphan Brigade, and his uncle and Godfather, Alexander Wythe, an abolitionist lawyer and captain serving in the Federal army. They wrestle with God and their own inner demons as they confront devastating personal tragedies and search desperately for faith, love, and meaning in a torn and tragic world of civil war.
My Thoughts:
This novel is quite different from the types of books I usually read so I was excited to try it out and see what I thought of it! I got through school with all A's but for some reason I didn't learn much about the Civil War (or any war for that matter) so this book helped me learn more about it.
I found this book intriguing. I really liked how the author focused on the struggles of the characters. The families had a hard time agreeing about what was right and what was wrong. Is killing in the war justifiable? Or is murder simply murder? The characters were also struggling with their faith. Is there a God? If so why would he allow this suffering? Does he hear our prayers? This book portrays the sad truth that many families had to go through with being torn away from their loved ones during the war not knowing if they would ever see them again or not.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
If you are into history I think that you would truly like this book. If you want to grab a copy for yourself here is the link to where you can buy this novel:
http://www.amazon.com/Difference-Of-Purpose-Novel-American/dp/147835805X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349493432&sr=8-1&keywords=A+Difference+of+Purpose
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
I'll Put 3 Chips on God: Review
I'll Put 3 Chips on God - just in case there is one
Author: Preeti Gupta
Publisher: CopperPages Inc.
Pages: 298
Summary:
Author: Preeti Gupta
Publisher: CopperPages Inc.
Pages: 298
Summary:
Agnosticism + Logic + Faith = My Spirituality
These are the ingredients in my ice-cream cone, along with Soul Energy, Reincarnation, Karma, Detachment, Vegetarianism, Astrology, Meditation, and the Ego. I believe these concepts make some sense based on the tenets of logic and science. Even to a skeptic like me.
But I am entitled to change my mind at any time. If tomorrow someone were to show me some indisputable, miracle-backed proof that their way is the correct way and I will go to Hell if I don't squat on one foot chanting 3.5 times a week, I will happily throw away my chocolate cone and switch to strawberry.
For now, here is what I believe, and why . . .
These are the ingredients in my ice-cream cone, along with Soul Energy, Reincarnation, Karma, Detachment, Vegetarianism, Astrology, Meditation, and the Ego. I believe these concepts make some sense based on the tenets of logic and science. Even to a skeptic like me.
But I am entitled to change my mind at any time. If tomorrow someone were to show me some indisputable, miracle-backed proof that their way is the correct way and I will go to Hell if I don't squat on one foot chanting 3.5 times a week, I will happily throw away my chocolate cone and switch to strawberry.
For now, here is what I believe, and why . . .
My Thoughts:
I've got to say, I absolutely enjoyed this book! I don't typically talk to others about my beliefs or read religious or spiritual books. It seems to be a very touchy subject and I've learned in my 22 (almost 23) years of life that a lot of times people will talk down to you about what you believe in. They may tell you that your way is the wrong way and that their way is the right way, the only right way. I don't like people preaching to me telling me I am damned if I don't do things a certain way. So I tend to keep my beliefs to myself and I respect any one's beliefs, whether I agree or not. I feel that everyone is entitled to their own opinions and beliefs and who am I to judge anyway?
Now, I did not feel that way at all while I read this book. I felt like I was simply chatting with a friend (a quite humorous friend) about her beliefs. I did not feel that she was preaching to me at all or that she was absolutely perfect, a saint. I was not bored out of my mind like I have been reading other "spiritual" books. What I really loved about this book was that the author did not make you feel like her way was the one and only correct way. I felt like I can take what I want from the book and leave the rest. I also loved how she touched on both sides of every subject not just HER side. If you are like me and you are open to hearing what someone else believes and why, whether you are set in your beliefs or not, I really think that you will enjoy this book.
If you would like to snag a copy of this book here is a link:
Here is the author's site where you can learn more about her and the book:
Now, please no rude comments, this blog is my happy place. As your mother probably told you, if you can't say nothin' nice, don't say nothin' at all! Love you all!
Monday, October 1, 2012
The Ugly Duckling: Review
The Ugly Duckling
Author: Iris Johansen
Publisher: Bantam Books
Pages: 432
Summary:
If fate suddenly made you more beautiful that you ever dreamed possible, would it be the beginning of a fairy tale, or your worst nightmare?
The brutal attack should have killed anybody, but Nell Calder did more than survive. She emerged a woman transformed, with an exquisite beauty found only in fairy tales. Nell Calder deserved a happy ending. Instead, her descent into terror has just begun.
Her attacker is still on the hunt, determined to finish what he's started. And Nell, protected by a new face, is just as determined to fight back and take her revenge. But to catch her prey, she will have to expose herself—even if it makes her a killer's prime target.
My Thoughts:
I loved this book. Nell went through so much suffering in the beginning of this book and she wanted to get revenge. She wanted to become a woman who was strong (physically and mentally), brave and who could take care of herself. I really liked that in her because I think more women should be able to defend themselves and not have to depend on others. I could not imagine the horror of going through what she went through as a mother.
This story sucked me right in! I could barely put it down because I just HAD to know what was going to happen. The characters were really likable to me and I really enjoyed them all. If you like suspense, betrayal, revenge, twists and turns, adventure, and a little bit of romance all tossed together, I think you'll really enjoy this book.
I'm really interested in reading more of Johansen's books. Do you have any recommendations?
Author: Iris Johansen
Publisher: Bantam Books
Pages: 432
Summary:
If fate suddenly made you more beautiful that you ever dreamed possible, would it be the beginning of a fairy tale, or your worst nightmare?
The brutal attack should have killed anybody, but Nell Calder did more than survive. She emerged a woman transformed, with an exquisite beauty found only in fairy tales. Nell Calder deserved a happy ending. Instead, her descent into terror has just begun.
Her attacker is still on the hunt, determined to finish what he's started. And Nell, protected by a new face, is just as determined to fight back and take her revenge. But to catch her prey, she will have to expose herself—even if it makes her a killer's prime target.
My Thoughts:
I loved this book. Nell went through so much suffering in the beginning of this book and she wanted to get revenge. She wanted to become a woman who was strong (physically and mentally), brave and who could take care of herself. I really liked that in her because I think more women should be able to defend themselves and not have to depend on others. I could not imagine the horror of going through what she went through as a mother.
This story sucked me right in! I could barely put it down because I just HAD to know what was going to happen. The characters were really likable to me and I really enjoyed them all. If you like suspense, betrayal, revenge, twists and turns, adventure, and a little bit of romance all tossed together, I think you'll really enjoy this book.
I'm really interested in reading more of Johansen's books. Do you have any recommendations?
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