Sunday, December 13, 2009

BOOK REVIEW AND GIVE AWAY

AN ANGEL ON MAIN STREET by KATHI ORAM PETRSON
                                From the back of the book:
Micah Connors promised his mother he would be good in their new town. But with Christmas only three days away, being escorted home by the sheriff does not bode well. Can the towering officer be trusted not to tell what happened? Perhaps the ramshackle stable that has appeared on Main Street will sidetrack him from spilling the day's events-or maybe his interest in Micah's widowed mother will do the trick. The last thing Dawn Connors needs is to hear her son is in trouble. She has enough to worry about with her husband gone and her daughter, Annie, ill. Even though Micah has told his sister the rustic structure in the middle of town is simply part of the town's holiday decorations, Annie is sure that unseen angels are building the crude stable-which means baby Jesus is coming, and he can make her better. Terrified that his little sister might die, Micah vows to find the baby Jesus for Annie, even if it is only a plastic doll. But as Micah gets nearer to his goal he finds angels are closer than he ever would have believed.
This is a wonderful Christmas story about love, service and faith in God. It is a quick read, I read it in one afternoon.
Micah wants to be good, he wants to take care of his mother and little sister who is sick. He wants to stay out of trouble as he promised his Mother he would, but trouble seems to follow him.
When he tells his sister about the Nativity that is slowly being put in the middle of town, she becomes convinced that the baby Jesus wil be able to make her well. It becomes Micah's goal to bring the Baby Jesus to Annie.
During his quest Micah learns that angels come in all shapes and sizes.
If you can only add one new Christmas Book to your collection this year I would recommend this be the one you add.
I will send a copy to one person, next week. Leave a comment here about an Angel in your life, by Dec 18. I will draw a name on the 19th and get your book out. Please include an email address so I can contact you if you win.
An Angel on Main Street is available through http://www.deseretbook.com/, http://www.seagullbook.com/ or http://www.amazon.com/.
CLICK HERE to learn more about Kathi Oram Peterson

Thursday, December 10, 2009

The 13th Reality, Vol 2: The Hunt for Dark Infinity by James Dashner

It’s been a quiet summer for Tick, Paul, and Sofia, but the latest message from Master George changes everything.

The Realities are in danger — and from something more terrible than Mistress Jane and the mutated Chi’karda of the Thirteenth Reality. People from all Realities are unexplainably going insane. Worse, some Realities are fragmenting, disintegrating into nothingness. Master George has learned that Mr. Chu from the Fourth Reality is working on a mysterious new weapon called Dark Infinity. But no one has any idea how to stop the weapon — or even if it can be stopped.
To make matters worse, Tick and his friends have been kidnapped, forced to wink from Reality to Reality, solving impossible riddles in order to survive the deadly traps surrounding them.
Mistress Jane and Tick find themselves in a race to reach the weapon first — but who will destroy it and who will become its master?
This is another fun book in James Dashner's 13th reality series. Again I borrowed Dad's audio book and listened while I drove to and from work.
 In this adventure Tick and his friends are sent from Realiy to Reality after their Nano Locators are hijacked. They learn more about Tick's amazing control (or lack of control) over the Chi’karda.
I didn't want the story to end and I will look forward to the next adventure.
Again, I would recommend this to adults as well as mid level readers.
It is available at Deseretbook.com, AMazon.com and interlibrary loan.
To check out James Dashner's blog CLICK HERE.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

The 13th Reality, Vol. 1: Journal of Curious Letters by James Dashner


What if every time you made a choice that had a significant consequence, a new, alternate reality was created — the life that would've been had you made the other choice? What if those new realities were in danger? What if it fell to you to save all the realities?

Atticus Higginbottom, a.k.a. Tick, is an average thirteen-year-old boy until the day a strange letter arrives in his mailbox. Postmarked from Alaska and cryptically signed with the initials "M.G.," the letter informs Tick that dangerous — perhaps even deadly — events have been set in motion that could result in the destruction of reality itself. M.G. promises to send Tick twelve riddles that will reveal on a certain day, at a certain time, at a certain place, something extraordinary will happen. Will Tick have the courage to follow the twelve clues M.G. sends to him? Will he be able to solve the riddles in time? Will Tick discover the life he was meant to live?
The first volume of an outstanding new children's fantasy series, The Journal of Curious Letters is filled with adventure, humor, riddles, and, oh, yes — danger. . . As M.G. warns Tick, Very frightening things are coming your way. Will you join Tick and his friends on an amazing journey through the Realities? What will your choice be?

I avoided this book for a long time, no real reason, I just wasn't all that interested. A few weeks ago I borrowed Dad's audio book to listen to in the car while driving home from work.
I found the Journal of Curious Letters to be interesting in a bizarre sort of way.
TIck was confronted with a lot of odd people from an 8 foot tall woman named Mothball to a very short round man named Rutger and machines and other super natural things as part of the test to determine if he is worthy of the challenge the mysterious MG has for him. He also has to solve 12 riddles, some easy, some mind boggling, to me at least. Tick has help from 2 other recruits that he meets online and support from his father in his journey to the "Special Day". Along the way he learns about Chi’karda, QP, barrier wands and many other odd things.
Even though this book is written with younger readers in mind, I would recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy.
James Dashner also wrote The Jimmy Fincher Saga, a four book series written for mid level readers, that I would recommend for even adult readers.
This book is available through Deseret Book and Amazon.com, and as always inter library loan.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

SHUDDER BY JENNIE HANSEN


Darcy and Clare grew up as best friends, sharing trials and triumphs from preschool through college graduation. Now they’re sharing an apartment in Boise, Idaho, where Clare just landed a great job and Darcy is pursuing a teaching certificate. There’s only one problem: Blaine, Clare’s boyfriend. His chauvinistic, know-it-all ways set Darcy’s teeth on edge. Darcy vows not to let Blaine ruin her lifelong friendship with Clare, but when Blaine insists on moving in, Darcy suddenly finds herself alone.

The estranged friends forge ahead on seemingly separate paths. Engaged to Blaine, Clare becomes trapped in ugly family politics and vicious treatment from her fiancĂ©. Darcy finds a temporary home with Karlene, an accident victim seeking live-in help, but a twisted plot soon threatens their safety. Clare’s wedding briefly reunites her with Darcy, yet the friends have never been farther apart. And when Clare finds herself in mortal peril and finally calls on Darcy to help, it might be too late.
This book is one of the best suspense novels I've read in a long time. Not only is there the suspence a who is trying to kill Karlene and why, there is the abuse that Clare is suffering at the hands of Blaine. And will Darcy be able to save either Karlene or Clare before its too late.
I had a hard time putting this book down, until I was finished. Jennie Hansen showed once again how talented and versatile she is.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone, especially if you are into suspence.
You can find this book at Deseret Book, Seagull Book, Amazon.com, and inter library loan.
For more information on Jennie Hansen's books CLICK HERE
To visit Jennie Hansen's blog CLICK HERE

Friday, November 6, 2009

FREE BOOKS FROM DESERET BOOK

My friend forwarded the following email to me and I thought you might be interested. Feel free to share it with as many people as you'd like.

---sbm

"As part of his doctoral studies, John Hilton III is "studying what
happens when books are made available for free." He worked with
Deseret Book and they have made 8 of their books available for free."
They can all be downloaded at http://www.deseretbook.com/free. Several of
the books are ones you might be interested in. The books are:


1. Please Pass the Scripture (by me).
2. What I Wish I Would Have Known When I Was Single (by John Bytheway).
3. Women at the Well (by Richard and Jeni Holzapfel).
4. Digging Deeper (by Robert Eaton).
5. 10 Secrets Wise Parents Know (by Brent Top and Bruce Chadwick).
6. Growing Up: Gospel Answers About Maturation and Sex (by Brad Wilcox).
7. Saving Kristen (by Jack Weyland). (fiction)
8. The Hidden Path (by C.B. Andersen). (fiction)


If nothing else, I recommend that you go download them all and save
them for future reference as they will only be available online for
free for a short time.
"Could you forward this information on to others who might be
interested? I want to help share these great, free resources with as many people as possible. Some of the books help you get more out of
the scriptures. Others are good for parenting. Some are just plain
fun. Go check out http://www.deseretbook.com/free. I hope you like the
books!" --John Hilton III"

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

THE HIDDEN BRANCH by GG VANDAGRIFF


Paul Mardian is a shining example of the American dream. The grandson of an Armenian immigrant who fled to the United States during the genocide of 1915, Paul is a self- made industrial tycoon and one of the most eligible bachelors in the country. But the dream is shattered when Paul turns up dead and his valuable collection of ancient Armenian artificats goes missing. Hired to find the murdered man’s heirs, professional genealogist Alexandra Campbell and her sidekick, Briggie, are brought to the swanky beaches of Southern California and a community of Armenian relatives who all seem to be hiding a secret. When another family member is suddenly murdered, Alex discovers there is more at stake than an unclaimed fortune or missing antiques, but piecing together Paul’s complicated family tree may be more dangerous than she ever anticipated. Author G. G. Vandagriff combines mystery, suspense, and romance in this page- turning thriller!

This is the 5th (And final) Alex & Briggie genealogy mystery.
As they always do, Alex & Briggie get into all sorts of trouble, which only makes the story better.
The story starts with Alex, Briggie, Charles,Richard & Marigny flying off to Huntington Beach, CA to find Paul Mardian's heirs. That seams innocent enough until Benji, the favorite grandson is kidnapped, and Alex is shot.
The list of suspects is long, and I never suspected the real culprit.
Alex & Briggie's adventures are always great fun, I will miss their adventures.
The previous Alex & Briggie Mysteries are Cankered Roots, Of Deadly Descent, Tangled Roots & Poisoned Pedigree. You can read them in any order.
If you like genealogy and mystery this is the book for you.
You can get it at the usual places, Deseret book, Seagull book, Amazon, and inter library loan.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

BRIANNA, MY BROTHER AND THE BLOG By JACK WEYLAND


“The thing I dread the most is the weekends,” Brianna said. “Each of my roommates is seeing someone, so they’ll all go on dates, and I’ll be left all alone in the apartment with only my 8 x 10 of Robbie. Actually, it’s his high school graduation picture. I keep getting older but he stays the same.”

She paused as though she wasn’t sure she should say what she was thinking. “You want to know something weird? Last week I realized I was starting to think of him as my nephew.”
That seemed like an odd thing to say, but it also made me very happy. “If you get lonely on the weekends, give me a call. I’ll never be doing anything.”
She hesitated and then asked, “Are you serious?”
“Totally.”
Brianna needs a friend, someone to keep her from being lonely while she’s waiting for her missionary, Robbie, to come home. And who better for the job than Robbie’s brother, Austin? He can keep the other men at bay while giving Brianna guy-type help, like hauling her harp around on weekends to play at wedding receptions.
Austin needs a friend, too. And Brianna is the perfect choice since there's no romantic involvement-of course not, how could there be, she's waiting for his brother, after all. As a friendship develops between Austin and Brianna, Austin is free to learn what it means to be "true and faithful friends" with a girl. He begins posting his findings in blog entries that quickly gather a following of interested readers. But what will happen to his friendship with Brianna when she finds out who the real author of the blog is? Because the truth is, Austin isn't looking for just a friend anymore, but something more. Will he have the courage to tell Brianna the truth-before Robbie comes home?
Even though this book was fairly predictable, I enjoyed it. Jack Weyland did an awesome job as usual.
It was a quick read. I loved the insight Austin was able to offer about relationships on his blog, and I kept hoping he'd follow his own advise in the way he treated Brianna.
The rationalization Brianna & Austin used in feeling OK about their relationship, while she was waiting for his brother.
All in all it was a good read and I would recommend it to anyone.
It is available in all the usual places, Deseret Book, Seagull Book, Amazon.com and inter library loan.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

AGENTS IN OLD LACE by TRISTI PINKSTON

Shannon Tanner has it all a perfect family, a perfect job, and a perfect boyfriend. Or so she thinks. What Shannon doesn't know is that her boyfriend, Mark, is stealing money from her father and making millions doing it. When Shannon learns Mark's secret, he turns on her, and Shannon's life abruptly goes from perfect to perilous.

In an effort to protect Shannon, the FBI assigns their only female agent to go undercover as her personal bodyguard. But when the agent is injured the day before the assignment, they turn to the next best thing: their top agent, Rick Holden in a dress.
Life seems safe again for Shannon with Rick by her side and Mark apparently gone for good. Then Shannon gets word that her best friend has been kidnapped, and it becomes clear that Mark isn't going to stop any time soon. Shannon realizes the only way to save herself and her friend and stop Mark once and for all is by sending Rick, her only source of protection, away. Can Rick save Shannon before it's too late?
Agents in Old Lace is Tristi Pinkston's first Romantic Suspense Novel to be published. She is best known for her historical fiction.
This was a fun book. I had a hard time putting it down. I especially love agent Rick/ Aunt Anita. He really was a good sport. I would have felt safe with him too.
Shannon showed real courage in facing the dangerous situation she found herself in and handled Aunt Anita living in her apartment with humor.
I loved the interaction with the "boys" hidden next door, watching and listening to her apartment.
My only frustration was that they didn't figure out why the Dad was sick and not getting any better. But that was one of the mysteries in the story.
I would recommend Agents In Old Lace to everyone. It is a fun book & a quick read.
For more information about Tristi's books  click here
Agents In Old Lace is available at Deseret Book, Cedar Fort, Barnes & Noble, and directly from Tristi. As always you can also get it through interlibrary loan.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

DEAD WRONG BY CLAIR POULSON

Kaitlyn Glenn is alone in the world. Disowned by family after her baptism, her only friend is the beloved horse she rides as a champion barrel racer. But loneliness is the least of Kaitlyn’s problems. Her competitor’s jealous father has vowed to sabotage her success. And her former boss—the handsome, rich, and extremely dangerous Jace Landry—stalks every move of this beautiful and talented cowgirl.


Aided by a mysterious man in a black cowboy hat, Kaitlyn escapes Jace’s iron grip and flees. On the road, she finds protection and companionship with a loyal trucker named Celia. But when Jace puts seedy private investigator Myler Keegan on Kaitlyn’s trail, she must outrun two men who will stop at nothing to feed their violent obsession. And when her cruel stepbrother joins the hunt, Kaitlyn faces lethal danger from every angle.
With deft skill, master of suspense Clair Poulson serves up nonstop action that pulls readers into Kaitlyn’s pulse-pounding race to freedom—and love.
Clair Poulson retired after 20 years in law enforcement. Jobs have included Utah Highway Patrol Duchesne County sheriff.
This is his 16th published novel. Most of his novels are crime drama/suspense type. He has been compared to John Grisham in his style.
Clair Poulson draws the inspiration for his books from his time in Law enforcement and the court system.
Dead Wrong is very suspenseful, Kaitlyn has more enemies than even she knows about. During the book we follow her around the intermountain west, from Cheyenne, WY to Logan, UT, to Boise, ID and other stops, always 1 step ahead of the bad guys. She is helped in her attempt to stay alive by a mysterious man in a black cowboy hat, a truck driver and a very insightful 9 year old girl.
If you are into suspense, and crime drama I would recommend that you read Clair Poulson.
This book is available in all the usual places,Desert Book, Seagull book, amazon.com and inter library loan.
Clair Poulson doesn't have a web site, but you can find some of his books on amazon.com.

SISTER PACT BY CAMI CHECKETTS


Savannah Compton is devastated when her sister and best friend Allison falls into a coma after a tragic accident. Or was it an accident? Even with a charming and handsome detective at her side, it seems Savannah may never discover the truth. But if she doesn t, her family could be in even more danger. And Savannah s past holds its own secrets that could change everything.
Now she must prove her innocence to the one person who is beginning to matter most. Join Savannah as she struggles to summon hope and rely on faith, even in the darkest of circumstances, and learn how the bond between sisters can overcome anything.

The Sister Pact is a thrilling romantic mystery, full of unexpected twists. Cami Checketts delivers an exhilarating new novel that will keep you guessing to the very last page.

This is the first of Cami Checkett's books I've read, and I was not disappointed.
I would have to catagorize this as a "Whydunit". In the 1st chapter the author tells us "Whodunit", the mystery is how will they prove it, and will they prove it before he strikes again. Another mystery, will Savannah figure out she is in danger before its too late, or will her stuborn pride just get her in more trouble.
I loved this book from the beginning to the end, even though I knew who the bad guy was, there were a lot of twists and turns in the story to keep me guessing and interested.
This is another book I would recommend for Mystery/Suspense/romance lovers.
You will be able to find it at Amazon.com
Borders
Barnes & Noble
Deseret Book, Walmart, Costco,and Seagull Book and Tape. Also as always you can use Inter library loan.

ENGLISH TRIFLE BY JOSI KILPACK


What begins as a holiday trip for amateur sleuth and cooking aficionado Sadie Hoffmiller and her daughter, Breanna, turns into a bizarre mystery. First comes the discovery of a dead body in the sitting room of an English manor belonging to the family of Breanna's boyfriend, who is also heir to the family title. When the body comes up missing, Sadie and Breanna are stranded at the estate until the police can clear them to leave. Armed with a jogging whistle, her personal recipe collection, and an unfailing sense of American justice, Sadie begins her own investigation to find the killer. But when she seems to encounter one dead end after another, Sadie wonders if anyone is telling the truth- or if the case is really as hopeless as it appears to be.

Picture a cool gray rainy day. For me that is the perfect kind of day to sit down with a good mystery. Josi Kilpack's 2nd Culinary Mystery, English Trifle, is just the mystery I chose to read on our cool gray Saturday.
This book is fast moving and has a lot of twists and turns. More than once I thought I knew who did it and why, but I never suspected the real killer or the motive.
If possible, this book was even better than the 1st Culinary Mystery, Lemon Tart, written by Josi Kilpack.
click here  to learn more about Josi Kilpack and her other books.
Engish Trifle is available at the usual places, Deseret Book, Seagull book, Amazon.com and inter library loan, or if you live in my immediate area I will lend it to you.

EYES LIKE MINE BY JULIE WRIGHT

I have been reading a lot lately. I love to read, but at this time of year, I am usually working on Christmas projects. This year, I still can't bend my left index finger enough to be able to crochet, so I am indulging myself with reading books by my favorite authors.
I first read Julie Wright's books a few years ago. He first book "To Catch A Falling Star" intrigued me because it was set in Boston, and that's close to home. It turned out it was set in Northborough, MA (My home town) and Algonquin Regional High School (My school). I devoured every word and went looking for more.
Its been a long time since Julie had a new book published, so when I was in Salt Lake City in July and saw this one I had to have it.
I loved this story, I had a hard time putting it down, so I could sleep. I love Family History, and I was intrigued by the storyline involving an ancestor coming forward in time. (If only I could get my ancestors to come for a visit).

A story of family that transcends time William has been missing for two days. And even though the rest of the wagon company has decided they must continue on to Zion, Constance Brown refuses to go any further until she finds her husband. All she can think about is the last time she saw him-he lovingly touched her face and then sang their baby girl to sleep. Will that memory be all Constance has to hold on to?
In a future time and place, Liz King is a teenager struggling with her identity in the modern world. The embarrassment she feels because of her parents' divorce and her family's new found financial problems turns to bitterness.

Through an inexplicable twist of fate, Constance and Liz are brought face to face. Liz recognizes Constance's name from her mother's endless lectures on their family history, and she also recognizes her eyes-they are exactly like her own.

Were these distant relatives brought together in order to help each other? Will Constance be able to return to her own life and find William, and will Liz be able to keep from telling Constance how her story ends?

In this irresistible novel filled with gripping adventure and heartfelt emotion, two young women from drastically different times and settings learn that the challenges life holds for them are not so different after all.

I recommend this book, to anyone, from teens to adults.
It is available at Seagull Book, Deseret Book & Amazon.com, or check your library for inter library loan.

METHODS OF MADNESS BY STEPHANIE BLACK

It's been three years since the terrible night Emily Ramsey suffered a double tragedy-the death of her sister and the disappearance of her fiancee. She deserves another chance at happiness, and gentle, adorable Zach Sullivan is the perfect man to mend her shattered heart. But from the moment Emily opens the hand-carved box holding a glittering diamond solitaire, she's seized by an unshakable fear: she's going to lose Zach. That's exactly what Monica, Zach's ex-girlfriend, is banking on. Bitter with envy, Monica will stop at nothing to sabotage Zach and Emily's romance. Troubling notes show up in Emily's mailbox, fanning the flames of suspicion. A bloody photograph sends her reeling. But when someone is brutally murdered, will Emily be able to escape suspicion and the possibility that she might be next? Whitney Award-winning author Stephanie Black treats readers to another of her brilliantly thrilling stories that will leave the reader no choice but to keep reading well past the stroke of midnight.

Since publishing her 1st book in 2005, Stephanie Black has never disappointed. Her newest book "Methods of Madness" is no exception. I only wished I could stay up and read longer at night, or that my days at work were less busy so I could read longer

I love a romantic thriller, and Stephanie has delivered just that. From page 1 to the end there are twists and turns that leave you guessing, and just when you have the guilty person picked out, there is a new twist that leaves you guessing some more.
I would highly recommend reading Methods of Madness, if you love a good thriller.
This book is available at Seagull Book, Deseret Book or as always through inter library loan.

For more information about Stephanie Black's books click here.

SEASON OF SACRIFICE BY TRISTI PINKSTON

Sarah Williams is a young Welsh immigrant, coming to Utah to join her sister Mary Ann Perkins. When the Perkins are asked to join the San Juan mission to pioneer a trail through Southern Utah, they take Sarah along to help care for the children. But a six-week journey turns into six agonizing months of hard work and toil as the Saints blast their way through a cliff to bring their wagons through what would become the famous Utah landmark "Hole in the Rock."
Finally settled in the San Juan, Sarah's true hardship begins when Ben Perkins asks her to be his second wife. With their faith and testimonies challenged to the core, both Sarah and Mary Ann struggle to find the true meaning of Christ-like love and obedience. Will they make it through?


Before I read this book I knew practically nothing about the missionaries sent to colonize the San Juan River are of Utah. This book tells about the trip to the San Juan over some of the roughest territory in Utah. Their trip was only 200 miles, but it took 6 months. There was very little grass for the stock and no towns where they could replenish their supplies.
They had to stop and build roads through canyons, and had to figure out how to get the wagons through hole in the rock, which had a sheer drop of several thousand feet on the other side.
This book is based on the ancestors of Tristi Pinkston, the author, who were in the wagon train. It is well worth reading, I learned a lot about this expedition, that I never knew before.
I bought this book directly from Tristi, http://tristipinkston.com/ but it should be available online or through inter library loan.

SCOTLYN KNIGHTESS OF THE DRAGON BY DEIRDRA EDEN COPPEL

A beautiful young woman in 12th century England desires to serve her country by becoming a knight long before the days of equal rights.

Scotlyn, Knightess of the Dragon is a fantasy adventure of a young woman in the final years of 12th century England.

Scotlyn's story, woven against a historical backdrop, takes her from a child to womanhood. Scotlyn desires to serve her country by becoming a knight long before the days of equal rights. She overcomes many adversaries with the aid of her friends, Ruburt, a dwarf, and Cassi, a pixie. Amidst the political turmoil of this time, Ireland's Prince John takes control of England and calls for, "Knights to arms!" Disguised as a man, Scotlyn answers that call. John, impressed with whom he thinks is a man, takes Scotlyn into his confidence.

Although he later discovers her true identity, she is granted her well-earned title of "Lady Knight." Scotlyn's hopes of a happily-ever-after are shattered when she encounters a demon force from the underworld working to destroy mankind and those plotting a political conspiracy against the kingdom. Through her adventures Scotlyn discovers she has several guardians, Woldor the Wise, a kind old dragon and a handsome mysterious archer with unearthly gifts and talents. Scotlyn must rely on a higher power to overcome fear, discouragement and temptation.
I read this book in a raw form about 2 years ago, and enjoyed it. Since then with the help of some well known published authors she has made some changes that makes it even better. I am looking forward to reading the new and improved version.


Deirdra is the author of 4 books Scotlyn is her first. She is offering it free on http://www.authonomy.com/ViewBook.aspx?bookid=10253 just click read book. She is asking if you would to add her book to your bookshelf.
To quote Deirdra:
" The more times my book is placed on someone’s “bookshelf” the better chance I have of getting picked up by an agency or publisher.
Last night when I went to bed “Scotlyn, Knightess of the Dragon” was in the top 5000 books this morning when I woke up I was number 1987 this afternoon I am at 1545 . The competition gets harder from here because there are so many wonderful books out there. I’m hoping to knock all the books about sex, drugs and homosexuality off the shelves. I would really like to be in the top 100 books and feel that if I have the support from friends and family in spreading the word I will be able to reach this goal."


This video shows some of the art work Deirdra did for this book.

click here for Deirdra's website.

HOW TO STUFF A WILD ZUCCHINI BY HEATHER HORROCKS

Sophisticated New York playwright Lori Scott feels like a failure when her producer boyfriend calls it quits on both their relationship and her first play. On a dare, she throws a dart at a map and ends up moving to Brigham City, Utah, where she plans to set aside writing, religion, and men to focus on her new career substituting as The Garden Guru for the local paper. But fate has something else in mind. When she accidentally lights her house on fire, Lori has no idea of the sparks that lie ahead.
Will she be able to resist the charm and persistence of local firefighting hero John Wayne Walker? Will old hurts and fears cause her to turn her back on the best thing that’s ever happened to her? Author Heather Horrocks brings a fresh, fun voice to this delightful contemporary romance about following your heart, finding true love, and wrestling with a basket full of zucchini!


I went to Deseret Book a couple of weeks ago, hoping they had Tristi Pinkston's new book. While I was looking at the wall of fiction for it I saw "How to Stuff a Wild Zucchini". Even though I am not a big fan of zucchini, I was intrigued by the title so I decided to give it a try. I am usually hesitant to buy books by authors I am not familiar with, but I'm glad I did this time.
This book is full of romantic twists and turns and zucchini. We are looking forward to trying the recipe for Zucchini Chicken Curry with Spicy Mango Fruit Chutney, included in the back, sometime in the near future.
I would highly recommend this book for anyone that is looking for a light romantic comedy.
This book is published by Deseret Book and is available from their website, Amazon.com and as always Inter library loan.

THE LAST WALTZ BY GG VANDAGRIFF

In December 1913, the city of Vienna glitters with promises of the future for sought- after debutante Amalia Faulhaber. But life takes a dramatic turn when simmering political unrest escalates into the most deadly war the world has ever known. Amalia is devastated when her fiance, Baron Eberhard von Waldburg, breaks off their engagement to return to his native Germany and obligatory military service. But she soon discovers that her passion for democracy in an increasingly fascist world has put everything she loves in danger. Her family torn apart and impoverished by the war, Amalia must now choose between an idealistic young Polish doctor, who shares her political views, and the wealthy Baron von Schoenenburg, an Austrian Cabinet minister who promises to provide safety and security in a violent, tumultuous time. Reminiscent of Gone with the Wind, this epic novel explores the nature of human character and the elusive search for love and peace.





I volunteered to read and review this book for the author, when I received it my 1st thought was "What did I Do?" The book is 591 pages long. Once I started reading I completely forgot about the length.

"The Last Waltz" is the story of Amalia. It starts when she is a teenager, engaged to a Prussian Musician, who breaks their engagement to go and fight with the Prussian Army.
This story is well researched and historically accurate. It takes place primarily in Vienna between 1913 and 1938. Woven into the story of Amalia's life, loves, choices and consequences is the story of War. The events leading up to WWI, the war and the terrible toll it took on the people of Austria and Germany, Austria's attempt to become a democratic nation and Hitler's rise to power.
I loved this book, Amalia was believable and the political climate of the times made me realize that if we don't learn from history we are doomed to repeat it.
I highly recommend this book, my only complaint is that it wasn't quite long enough, I would have liked an epilogue or a few more chapters to find out how the characters fared during WWII.

Publisher: Shadow Mountain
ISBN 978-1-60641-052-3
Published April 2009

LOCKDOWN by TRACI HUNTER ABRAMSON

Only twice had she set foot inside the building since the massacre. The first time had been just a month after the tragedy .. . . The second time she had returned to the scene of the crime had been two days ago when she forced herself to enter the building to check on the temporary office for the SEAL team. The counselor she had seen in the months after the shooting had encouraged her to face her fears, but now . . . Riley wasn’t sure she was ready to face them after all.
Caught up in a hostage situation that is hauntingly familiar, Riley Palmetta once more finds her life hanging in the balance. What starts out as a well-organized and highly intensive training course for the prevention of random acts of terror quickly turns into a real-life nightmare of suspense and intrigue that will test the faith and finely honed skills of Tristan Crowther and his elite group of LDS Navy SEALS. For Tristan, this is not only a race to save lives; it is a deeply personal mission that moves relentlessly toward an irreversible crisis. And life—as well as love—is on the line.

This is another exciting book by Traci Hunter Abramson. This book was written shortly after the Virginia Tech Massacre. The story is a little predictable, in that you can easily identify who the bad guys are, but there is still a lot of suspense about what they will do next. There is also a bit of romance. The Navy SEAL team- called "The Saint Squad" will be familiar to anyone who has read "Freefall".
If you like romantic suspense stories I would recommend this as well as Traci's previous books. These books are available at LDS bookstores or http://www.amazon.com/

Traci Hunter Abramson, Me & Kerry Blair

taken at the books signing for "Freefall" March 2008

THE AUTHURIAN OMEN BY GG VANDAGRIFF

When a Celtic scholar finds a clue to a priceless fifth-century manuscript that will prove the real identity of King Arthur, she is brutally murdered. Determined to find the manuscript and avenge her sister's death, Maren Southcott begins a quest that puts her own life in danger. Overt and covert seekers weave in and out of the tale as she travels through the castles and monasteries of ancient Wales, seeking the document that could rival the The Book of Kells. Who are all these people? Which one is her psychopathic stalker plotting death and revolution? Which one wants her dead? Did the Celtic professor with the extraordinary eyes kill her sister? Can she risk death and find the manuscript before MI5, Scotland Yard, and impassioned Celtic scholars?

I read this book a few weeks ago and loved it, in fact I couldn't put it down. it is fast moving and filled with twists and turns that left me guessing right up to the last page. If you like Mary Higgins Clark you will love this book.
Arthurian Omen can be purchased at http://www.amazon.com/ or http://www.borders.com/ or you can borrow it though Inter library loan for those outside of Utah.

THE GREAT AND THE TERRIBLE BY CHRIS STEWART

I love to read and my favorite thing to read is LDS Fiction. I usually don't review the books I read, it reminds me too much of the much hated grade school book reports, but I have decided to try and do a few more.
My favorite book store is Deseret Book. There is one one the west side of the valley, closer to us and they price match Seagulls Prices.
The book I decided to review today is actually a series of 6 books. The 1st 3 I read a few years ago, so I am going to borrow the summery from http://www.deseretbook.com/ for them.
As Peter read the charges against Lucifer, the enormous chamber remained deadly still. Everyone knew what the charges would be, for there were no more secrets among the children of God, and the evidence was damning, entirely whole, and complete.
Satan was indeed in open rebellion. He was seeking not only to destroy the souls of all who would follow, but to bring down and destroy the society of the Father, to take His kingdom and power and glory and claim it all for his own.
And because it was evident, and because he no longer denied it, there was no doubt of the outcome of the Council of God.
Lucifer had to be defeated, his rebellion disbanded or crushed. He could not he reasoned with. There was no common ground. His followers had to give up their sedition and quit converting God's children to their dark paths or be cast out and expelled from the presence of God.
Ammon shivered as he listened to the words Jehovah read. Damned for eternity. Denied their second estate. Cast out, never to be with the Father again.
And so it was that the battle with Satan began.
This volume is a little bizarre, but if you decide to read the series, it is necessary, to define the characters in the rest of the books.
"Destroy an entire nation!" protested the American. "How would you suggest we manipulate the political consequences of that?"
"We won't destroy them," replied the Saudi prince. "We will move them. There is an enormous difference, my friend."
"But they will not be moved"

"That is their choice. If they stay, they will die, but I cannot choose for them. We can't make them be reasonable, though Allah knows we have tried."

The war that began before we entered mortality is escalating into the final battle for freedom, liberty and the hearts and souls of all men. Into this world filled with turmoil, our Father will send some of his most valiant servants. A child is born who may have the power to change the course of history. But will Elizabeth remember the covenants she made in the pre-mortal world? Will she and her brothers have the strength to withstand the terrible forces of evil that will reign in the Last Days? Against the backdrop of Middle Eastern conflict, this story of war and intrigue will have you riveted.
"The old king struggled, lifting his hand again. The prince smiled at the motion and placed his mouth to the old man's ear, feeling the heat of his skin on his lips. As he spoke his voice changed, as if another man were there. "It has started, my father," he whispered in a soft, evil hiss. "There is no turning back. You might as well lift your hand to stop the sunrise as to bring an end to this plan. Like your own death, it is inevitable. A new day is dawning, a day of secret alliances and powerful men, an age of dark miracles, dreadful rumors and a red, sinking moon, a day of a bright flash on the horizon that does not come from the sun. It will be an age of power and oppression far greater than has ever fallen on the earth. Even as I whisper to you, Father, even as my breath touches your ears, the great battle has started. The sun is setting on the frail world you have known. It is passing, and with its passing, the greater kingdom shall come." A world poised at the brink of a disastrous war is unaware of the evil forces that will stop at nothing to achieve their aims. But in the midst of turmoil and impending doom, some of the Father's most valiant servants are in place-sons and daughters who may have the power to change the course of history. The third volume in The Great and Terrible series, The Second Sun, is a fast-paced, thrilling, action-packed story of war and intrigue by nationally bestselling author Chris Stewart.
The world waits in suspense as America struggles to survive following the attack on Washington, D.C., but who remains to run the government? Who will make the world-changing decisions that must be made? As King Abdullah prepares for the final attack that will bring America to its knees, the characters are trapped in a desperate fight for their lives. Sara Brighton and her sons, Luke and Ammon, head west in a doomed attempt to reach Salt Lake City. Sam returns to the States in anticipation of a U. S. retaliatory strike, but finds his home abandoned, with no trace of his family there. In Chicago, Azadeh Pahlavi meets her adopted mother and little sister, who are enmeshed in their own crisis with life-or-death consequences. The end is near now.
"What happens when the world goes dark?
The battle of good against evil intensifies in the darkness of an EMP-devastated America. The electromagnetic pulses that wiped out the country's entire electrical grid have reduced people to an almost animal existence. While those with good hearts pull together to help each other, those inclined to evil find free reign for the rage that Satan and his minions are stirring up in their hearts.
For Sara Brighton, the time is fast approaching when she must face the frightening realities her husband, Neil, warned her about before his death. Sam's problem is more immediate: How can he get his family to a safe place? Bono is still trying to get to his family, and Azadeh is struggling to find her role in the family that has reached out to welcome her in. Meanwhile, the followers of Satan plot to take over the government of the United States and remake it to fulfill their own greed and lust for power.
The situation for all of these people is desperate, but even in a world gone mad, there are moments of hope, the possibility of miracles, and help from the other side of the veil. Discover the truth: The last days are terrible, but they are also great. Don't miss the next gripping volume in this landmark series!
What readers are saying about The Great and Terrible:
"It isn't often that a book — let alone a series comes along that has the power to move, inspire, and thrill in a page-turning adventure that leaves the reader wishing the story wouldn't end. Yet, this is precisely what Chris Stewart achieves."
"To have my fascination for military techno-thrillers reinforced with the real-life practice of my religion is a literary dream come true!"
"Chris Stewart is brilliant in providing us with a realistic story that makes us think about our own preparedness, both temporal and spiritual. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book."

THE EXCITING CONCLUSION TO THE EPIC LAST DAYS SERIES
"We have this one chance," Brucius told Sam. "If you can get him, if you can locate and extricate King Abdullah, then we can punish him. Justice will be served. We could stop the final world war. Find him, we'll try him and hang him. Don't, and we'll have to retaliate."
The United States, stunned by the nuclear detonation in Washington, D.C., and further crippled by the EMP attack on the whole country, is on the brink of destruction. The unscrupulous leaders who have banded together to toss out the Constitution and divide the ruling of the world between themselves have all but achieved their objective.
But they haven't factored in one thing. They haven't considered the chance, however slight, that good people remain who will continue standing up for what they believe in. A daring plot to reinstate Brucius Marino to his rightful position as president of the United States, with an even more audacious plan to bring King Abdullah to justice--everything hinges on the courage and skill of Sara and Sam Brighton and their friends. The thrilling conclusion to The Great and Terrible series will keep you riveted to the very end!

This series is published by Deseret Book. It is a techno thriller that is not all that far fetched. It was almost frightening in the fact that it could easily happen in today's world. Some things I have thought about after reading volumes 4 & 5 especially. We need to be aware of world events, as well as what is happening in our own country. We also need to make sure we have our food & water storage up to date, as well as matches and candles, wood to burn for heat and cooking, plenty of the medications we need to take daily.
I highly recommend this series. It is nothing like other last days series' out there. It is entertaining, suspenseful, and thought provoking.
No doubt, we will yet have Miltons and Shakespeares of our own. But such literary greatness will be achieved only by great souls. Our religion is capable of cultivating those great souls; and it shall.

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