A New Direction

You may have noticed some changes to the content of this blog over the past year.  When Blogging become more of a job than a joy, I had to step back and look at what I really wanted out of the blog.  Somehow I fell into the product reviewer Blog Cycle.  While it is very exciting getting free stuff to try, more and more I realized that free stuff just ended up as junk cluttering my house because it may or may not be something I would use in my every day life.  While I have adopted many of the items I have reviewed here into my household (TruKid, Novica and SodaStream all come to mind), many have fallen to the wayside (or more specifically into a pile on the floor of my office... but I digress).

The Flesh Cartle #3: Choices ~ Book Review ~ @RiptideBooks

Title: The Flesh Cartel Episode 3: Choices

Author: Rachel Haimowitz and Heidi Belleau

Publisher: Riptide Publishing

Publication Status: Available 7 Jan 2013

Genre: Erotica, Fiction

Sub Genre: GLBT, Taboo, Male/Male

ISBN: 9781937551711

My Rating: 5 of 5 stars

From the Publisher:

The Flesh Cartel returns for a compelling second season with "Choices." Brothers Mat and Dougie Carmichael thought nothing could be worse than being snatched from their home and brutally dehumanized in preparation for sale as sex slaves. But they learn their suffering has only just begun when they’re shipped to their new master’s home.

Professional trainer Nikolai Petrovic is a master of his trade. His ultra-rich clientele pay him to create perfectly tailored playthings, and Mat and Dougie are the latest in a long line of men who have walked into his remote mountain home as terrified victims and left it permanently altered: subdued and obedient, ready and even eager for a life of service.

To achieve this, Nikolai must take a drastically different tack with each brother. Dougie, manipulated with affection and denial. Mat, controlled by pain and fear. The one thread in common for both men is choice. Nikolai prides himself on never forcing, but will Mat and Dougie submit willingly to his vision, or will they first need to learn the price of disobedience?

Reader discretion advised. This title contains the following sensitive themes: Explicit violence & Non-consent

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Brindisi Bedfellows by Jamie Craig ~ Book Review ~

Title: Brindisi Bedfellows

Author: Jamie Craig

Publisher: INscribe Digital

Publication Status: Available

Genre: Romance

Sub Genre: MM, LGBT

ISBN: 9781595783806

My Rating: 4 of 5 stars

From the Publisher:

Getting dumped is never fun.

Getting dumped by your boyfriend on the eve of your first vacation in six years because he decides to reconcile with his ex-wife is agony.

Heartbroken Christian Davis is drowning his sorrows when his ex-lover’s best friend swoops in and throws his world into chaos. Trip Watson is gorgeous and gregarious and everything Chris doesn’t need right now. But none of that seems to matter when Trip finds out what Andrew did to him. Appalled by Andrew’s callous treatment, Trip announces the best way to get over the break-up – and to rub Andrew’s face in it – is to go to Italy as planned and spend the next three weeks having the time of his life. With Trip.

Mutual lust drives them together. Andrew could very well push them apart. Especially if the truth about Trip’s relationship with him ever comes to light.

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Where You Are by JH Trumble ~ Book Review ~

Title: Where You Are

Author: JH Trumble

Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corp.

Publication Status: Available 24 December 2012

Genre: Young Adult, MM Romance

Sub Genre: GLBT, Coming of Age

ISBN: 9780758277169

My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars

From the Publisher:

Robert Westfall's life is falling apart-everywhere but in math class.  That's the one place where problems always have a solution. But in the world beyond high school, his father is terminally ill, his mother is squabbling with his interfering aunts, his boyfriend is unsupportive, and the career path that's been planned for him feels less appealing by the day.

Robert's math teacher, Andrew McNelis, watches his best student floundering, concerned but wary of crossing the line between professional and personal. Gradually, Andrew becomes Robert's friend, then his confidante. As the year progresses, their relationship-in school and out of it-deepens and changes. And as hard as he tries to resist, Andrew knows that he and Robert are edging into territory that holds incalculable risks for both of them.

J.H. Trumble, author of the acclaimed Don't Let Me Go, explores a controversial subject with extraordinary sensitivity and grace, creating a deeply human and honest story of love, longing, and unexpected connection.

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Mac And Cheese Please ~ Cookbook Review and Recipe ~

Title: Mac & Cheese Please

Author: Laura Werlin

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Publication Status: Available

Genre: Cookbook

ISBN:

My Rating:

 

 

From the Publisher:

No one knows cheese better than Laura Werlin, and now she's applying her expertise to everyone's favorite macaroni dish. Inside, you'll find 50 recipes organized by fun topics, such as Classic and Almost-Classic Mac & Cheese, Porky Mac & Cheese, Decadent Mac & Cheese, Lighten Up Mac & Cheese, Veggie Mac & Cheese, Party Time Mac & Cheese, and Breakfast for Dinner Mac & Cheese. The 50 recipes are presented in a fun format, like her previous title, Grilled Cheese Please! She even includes an appendix that includes info on all the food trucks and restaurants that specialize in mac & cheese.

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Fearless by Cat Grant ~ Book Review ~ @RiptideBooks

 

Title: Fearless

Author: Cat Grant

Publisher: Riptide Publishing

Publication Status: Available

Genre: MM Romance

Sub Genre: Contemporary

ISBN: 978-1-937551-18-6

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

From the Publisher:

After over a year together, Connor Morrison and Wes Martin decide to tie the knot. But an ethics complaint regarding their deeply non-traditional relationship threatens Connor’s job and Wes’s Ph.D. The fact that Connor tried to keep it from Wes—even with the best of intentions—makes the situation even worse and casts a pall over their plans for a Christmas wedding in New York.

It doesn’t help that Connor still treats Wes like glass, though Wes insists he’s recovered from the brutal assault he suffered a year and a half earlier. Wes may be okay, but Connor isn’t. Memories of taking a battered, terrified Wes to the emergency room that night still haunt him, and he can’t let go of the need to protect Wes from any and everything life might throw at him.

But Wes has had enough. Between the specter of the ethics complaint and Connor’s overprotectiveness, he’s already beginning to question their plans. Add in a family ashamed of and angered by his choices, and Wes might just leave Connor standing at the altar.

(Publisher's note: This title is a sequel to Priceless. For maximum enjoyment, we highly recommend reading Priceless first.)

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December Reading Challenge #4

My 4th and final reading challenge for December was the monthly reading challenge set forth by the M/M Romance Group on Goodreads.  Here are the rules this month:

1. Happy Birthday! - Read a book that you have chosen from the shelves of one of our December B-day Celebrants.
2. World Aids Awareness Day (12/1) – Read a book in which one of the MCs has HIV/AIDS. Best Gay Romance with Characters Who are HIV+
3. Letter Writing Day (12/7) – Read an epistolary story or one that includes back and forth communication via letters/email. Or, read a book with a letter on the cover or that features an MC that works for the postal service or in a mailroom.
4. National Ding-a-Ling Day (12/12) – I can’t make this stuff up, folks. I’m not going to put constraints on this one, just pick a book that has…ding-a-lings…
5. National Chocolate Covered Anything Day (12/16) - Read a book that has chocolate on the cover or has the word chocolate in the title. Bonus: Include a picture of something delicious, covered in chocolate.
6. Look for an Evergreen Day (12/19) – Read a book that has a pine tree on the cover or has a pine green cover.
7. Christmas (12/25) – Read a holiday themed story! Yay, Christmas!
8. New Year’s Eve (12/31) – Read a New Year’s book or one that has champagne on the cover or the word resolution in the title. If you’re desperate, you can read a book with fireworks on the cover.
9. Group Hug - Read a book written by one of our group members Group Member Authors.
10. Book of Your Choice - (BOM selection, Pick it for Me book, other challenge book, etc…)

Bonus: OMG! It’s Bingo Month! I kid you not. Read a book from one of this month’s bingo categories. (another fun challenge in M/M Romance)

 

My Picks:

Doc Holiday ~ Book Review ~

Book Review Template:

Title: Doc Holiday

Author: Debra Dixon

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept

Publication Status: Available

Genre: Romance

Sub Genre: Christmas

ISBN: 9780307804570

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

 

From the Publisher:

With poignant humor and sizzling romance, Debra Dixon presents a story about the magic of Christmas and promises made under a starry winter sky.

Drew Haywood needs a feminine touch to help give his young son a holiday to remember—and no one does Christmas better than Taylor Bishop. She knows how to transform a house into a home that sparkles. But when Drew lets his guard down, he finds that Taylor has much more to offer. Kissing her is like coming in out of the cold—and Drew doesn’t want to go back out.

Taylor has already raised one family—she grew up with six brothers, after all—and she doesn’t need another. She may have fallen for Drew as a teenager, but he’s asking for a Christmas miracle that would break all her rules. Still, the chemistry she shares with this sexy, single father has nothing to do with the past. Perhaps the gift of a young boy’s smile, not to mention stolen kisses beneath the mistletoe, will point the way to the one thing on Taylor’s wish list.

Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: About Last Night, Blaze of Winter, and Lana’s Lawman.

Debra Dixon is a writer of both fiction and nonfiction. She has written eight romances for the Loveswept imprint over the years. In 1995 she received the Career Achievement Award from Romantic Times magazine. She has served as vice president for the Romance Writers of America, and has received the national Emma Merritt Service Award for her contributions to writers and the RWA.

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There Were Dinosaurs Everywhere!: A Rhyming Romp Through Dinosaur History ~ Children's Book Review ~

 

Title: There Were Dinosaurs Everywhere!: A Rhyming Romp Through Dinosaur History

Author: Howard Temperley Illustrations by Michael Kline

Publisher: KWS Publishers

Publication Status: Availble

Genre: Children's non-fiction

ISBN: 9781937783167

My Rating:

 

 

From the Publisher:

The phenomenon of the dinosaur is one that continues to fascinate people of all ages. It is not hard to see why: these monstrous creatures dominated the earth in their day somewhat similarly to the way humans dominate the earth today. Certainly, the vast differences between dinosaurs and humans probably account for the enthrallment—we are amazed that such "mythical" creatures actually did exist.

There Were Dinosaurs Everywhere!: A Rhyming Romp Through Dinosaur History is a fun-filled history of the many species of dinosaurs, their eras, interesting facts about them, why the age of dinosaurs came to an end, and a dinosaur timeline—all told in an appealing verse form that children from ages 5 to 12 will find informative, funny and unforgettable.

This book contains much of the factual and historical information that a middle-school textbook on dinosaurs might contain, but the big difference between such textbooks and There Were Dinosaurs Everywhere! is that this is an instructional, educational book that no child (and perhaps many adults) will not want to put down.

Mr. Temperley's verse is captivating and catchy; Mr. Kline's illustrations are amusing and attractive. This is a unique addition to children's books on dinosaurs, and it is sure to stand out from the others—those that simply don't have the same flair for telling a very popular story.

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Frat Boy and Toppy ~ Book Review ~ @Riptidebooks

Title: Frat Boy and Toppy

Author: Anne Tenino

Publisher: Riptide Books

Genre: M/M Romance

Publication Status: Available

ISBN: 9781937551278

Pages: 186

My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars

 

From the publisher: A hilarious and heartwarming story of a college jock's coming-out. Brad is great at meeting other people’s expectations. But his own? Not so much. Take the gay thing. Okay, so yeah. It took a morning meeting with a frat brother’s hairy, naked ass for him to admit it, but he knows the truth about himself now. Let the gay life commence.
Unfortunately, it’s not that easy. He hasn’t quite determined how to come out to anyone, even Sebastian, the geeky-hot TA in his history class. Sebastian is everything Brad is not. Intellectual, suave, hairy. Out. And he doesn’t seem interested in Brad, even when Brad makes a fool of himself trying to catch his notice.
Score one for foolery: Sebastian does more than notice Brad; he takes him to bed. Brad’s been with plenty of girls, but with Sebastian, the sex is something else entirely—hot, mind-blowing, affirming, and a little domineering in a way that drives him wild. But when great sex turns into something more—dare he admit the “L” word?—Brad must face the crushing realization that Sebastian doesn’t feel the same. Unless, of course, he does. After all, even grad students can be idiots about matters of the heart. (Publisher's note: This title contains explicit sexual content.)

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Last Night I had a Laughmare ~ Children's Book Review ~

Title: Last Night I had a Laughmare Bedtime Adventures in Gigglyville

Author: J.E. Laufer

Illustrator: Jeff Yesh

Publisher: Smith Publicity

Publication Date: 20 Nov 2012

Pages: 32

ISBN: 9781881669012

 

 

From the Publisher:

Judy Laufer’s delightful new picture book, Last Night I Had a Laughmare!, takes sleepyheads of all ages to a magical world of bedtime adventure where nothing is EVER quite what it seems! Star-hung swings? Purple hair? Shoelaces made of spaghetti? These are just a few of the surprises in store for visitors to Gigglyville…and the town’s silly residents love to have company. Bring your own chair and join Liverlips, Smellyfeet, Purplepudding and Dishes on an exciting romp through a place where special wishes are granted, snowballs are made of ice cream, and readers will be laughing ‘til morning.

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December Reading Challenge #3

My third reading challenge for the month is a Monthly challenge put together by the Romance Reader Reading Challenges group on Goodreads.

1. 'D' is for December: Read a book that starts with 'D' or by an author whose first or last name begins with 'D'.
2. Happy Birthday!: Read a book from a December birthday celebrant's GR bookshelf whose name/nickname starts with the same letter as yours. If no one has the same letter, choose someone with the closest letter to yours alphabetically. RRRC December Birthday List
3. Geography: Read a book whose author, character or setting is from Wisconsin. Wisconsin is best known for the Green Bay Packers (the only non-profit, community-owned major league professional sports team in the United States), their Cheeseheads (Wisconsin is known as America's Dairyland) and all the beer they drink (Milwaukee was once home to four of the world's largest breweries). I may have stretched the truth there a bit, but for this category you can also read a sports related book or one in which food/alcohol plays a large part in the story.
4. Winter (Southern) Solstice, Dec.21: The solstice brings us the shortest day of the year, so read a short book - one under 200 pages.
5. Winter (Southern) Solstice, Dec.21: The solstice also brings us the longest night, so read a book over 300 pages.
For those of you on the south side of the equator, just reverse those! =)
6. Humbug Day, Dec.21: Read a book with an unhappy, cynical or Scrooge like character.
7. Look on the Bright Side Day, Dec. 21: Read a book that features a happy, optimistic or Pollyanna like character.
8. New Year's Eve, Dec. 31: Out with the old… Read a book that has been neglected on your TBR, one that gets you current in a series, or an old favorite either book, author, or series.
9. New Year's Eve, Dec. 31: And in with the new! Read something new to you - a new release, a new author or a new series.
10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choice.

 

My Picks:

Dinosaur Countdown ~ Children's Book Review ~

Title: Dinosaur Countdown

Author: Nicholas Oldland

Publisher: Kids Can Press

Publication Date: 1 Aug 2012

Pages: 28

ISBN: 9781554538348

 

 

From the Publisher:

Count down from ten striding velociraptors to a ferociously funny end in this counting book for dinosaur lovers of all ages!

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O Come All Ye Kinky ~ Book Review ~

Title: O Come All Ye Kinky

Authors: Ava March, Alexa Snow, Elyan Smith, Jane Davitt, Joey W. Hill, Katie Porter, Kim Dare, L.A. Witt

Publisher: Riptide Publishing

Publication Status: Available in eBook and Paperback.

Genre: MM Romance, Anthology

Sub Genre: BDSM, Menage

ISBN: 9781937551513

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

From the Publisher:

Christmas is a time of love and joy, and the New Year is a time of renewal. But they are also times of stress and strife, family drama, pressure and heartache—a potent mix of high expectations and conflicted emotions. Add in power exchange relationships, kinky gift swaps, and unconventional love in a sometimes unforgiving world, and you have a formula for a sizzling anthology of stories that tug at your heart.

From Ava March’s forbidden Regency love between men, to Katie Porter’s scorching hot contemporary tale of two women discovering holiday happiness, everyone will find a favorite here. Pervertible toys abound: Lambda Literary Award finalist L.A. Witt’s candy cane, Jane Davitt’s wrapping paper and tape, and Alexa Snow’s Christmas candles all please and delight. Newcomer Elyan Smith and fan favorite Kim Dare both celebrate New Year’s Eve with romantic flair and kinky fireworks, while bestselling author Joey W. Hill’s poignant story of discovery and commitment will lead you home.

Whatever your desires, we invite you to explore new fantasies and old with these eight kinky tales of holiday happy endings.

20% of all proceeds from O Come All Ye Kinky will be donated to the Domestic Violence Project of the National Leather Association–International.

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Hooligan Bear A Special Day ~ Children's Book Review ~

 

Title: Hooligan Bear A Special Day

Author: Ian Toynton

Illustrator: Andrea Dietrich

Publisher: Smith Publicity

Publication Date:

Pages: 32

ISBN: 9781601311313

 

From the Publisher:

When Hooligan Bear discovers that Little Louie has never had a birthday, he quickly comes up with a plan. He gathers the other bears together, and they set off for an exciting adventure at the bakery.



 

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Monkey of the Month ~ Children's Book Review ~

Title: Monkey of the Month

Author: Adam Kramer

Illustrator: David Kramer

Publisher: Schiffer Publishing Ltd.

Publication Date: Aug 31 2012

ISBN: 9780764341564

Pages: 39

 

 

 

Bored with mundane birthday gifts, a young boy unexpectedly receives a most peculiar gift on his birthday: a one year-membership to the “Monkey of the Month Club.” Though pleased it isn’t just a pair of socks, he is very confused by this odd gift, until, month-by-month, monkeys and their primate cousins start appearing at his door. As the year moves on, his house becomes full of chimpanzees, orangutans,   gorillas, and more, who begin turning his house into their own private playground. While a house full of monkeys, all unique in their own way, sounds like a lot of fun, membership in the “Monkey of the Month Club” does have some drawbacks. Find out what happens in this exciting and humorous adventure accompanied by bright illustrations. Grades Pre-K-3.

Adam Kramer is thrilled to enter the field of children's books. When he's not writing, he might be found catching a baseball game with his wife Lena. Stemming from his love of cartooning, David Kramer's whimsical, animated characters reflect his love of storytelling and a creative imagination.

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December Reading Challenge #2 ~ Spell it Out ~

My second reading challenge of the month is the monthly Spell-it-Out Challenge.  For December I am spelling the word CHRISTMAS (of course).  I am actually almost done with this challenge.  As of today I have 7 of the 9 books complete.

Here are my choices:

All About Boats ~ Children's Book Review ~

Title: All About Boats A to Z

Authors: David & Zoe Aiken

Illustrations: David Aiken

Pages: 32

Publication Date: 9 October 2012

ISBN: 9780764341847

Publisher: Schiffer Publishing Ltd.

 

Boating time is family time as everyone often shares both the work and the fun. Even young children are eager to help and, once their curiosity is aroused, they'll look for ways to learn more about boating. All About Boats: A to Z shows the youngest crew members the purpose of the many things they see while boating. Each letter appears on a separate page. The featured word is explained by a verse and an illustration, showing how it fits for boating. "B" is for bell. Though there are many types of bells, a ship's bell is used to send signals, which can be a safety factor in fog or rain. This book is a great conversational tool on the aspects of boating as families develop their onboard teamwork. For children in grades K-2.

Zora and David Aiken have collaborated on nine books, including five for children. They live on a sailboat and meander along coastal and inland waterways gathering material for their work.

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December Reading Challenge 1 ~ Over in a Flash ~

My first reading challenge for the month comes from the Goodreads Happily Ever After Cafe group.  It is a quick challenge with only 2 or 3 books.

Rules: Read 2 books with the following items found on their covers; choose 2 of the 3 options below. Be sure to post your book covers, dates read, and star ratings. If you want, you can do this at the end of the month after you reviewed your covers. Feel free to do all three if you want.

COLOR:Green & Gold - together or separately.

HOLIDAY: (1) Holiday Festive Season, Christmas or Hanukkah a time to celebrate with family and friends and for peace and good will on Earth. Read a holiday themed book or a book just celebrating family, friendship, love and compassion. (2) As Australia is on the other side of the world and Down Under read a book set in Australia or by an Australian author OR A book set in another country OR by an author of another nationality OR in a different time or place to where you live. (3) December is supposed to be the predicted date of the Mayan Apocalypse prophecy!. Read a book with the Mayan Apocalypse theme or any other end of days theme...

ITEMS: December Birthstone: Turquoise or Zircon. December Flowers: Narcissus, daffodil, holly, Ivy. December Horoscope: Sagittarius (Archer) and Capricorn (Goat). Festive Season Items, eg, Christmas Tree, pinecones, snow, angels, stables, farm animals, shepherds, star,candles, Menorah, tinsel, gifts or for Southern hemisphere Christmas, beach, BBQs*, swimming, backyard cricket or games. Family celebrating the birth of a baby. Family and friends celebrating a meal together.

My picks:

Double Time ~ Book Review ~

Release Date: 6 Nov 2012

Publisher: Sourcebooks

ISBN: 9781402271519

Page Count: 416 pages

My Rating: 4 of 5 stars

From the Publisher:

Olivia Cunning delivers the perfect blend of steamy sex, heartwarming romance, and a wicked sense of humor in this menage story featuring the hottest guy in the Sinners band.

Trey Mills, the notoriously sexy Sinners rhythm guitarist, gives up his bisexual lifestyle and is swept into a hot, heady romance with Reagan Elliot, a female rock star sensation. But when Trey encounters Reagan's sexy bisexual roommate, Ethan Conner, he can no longer deny who he is or what he wants. Reagan heartily agrees to a solution that opens up a hot new world of sexual experience—and love—with the two men she wants the most.

My View:

November Reading Challenge #4 ~ M/M Challenge ~

Thought this challenge is designed for the Goodreads M/M Romance group, it could be easily adapted to your favorite genre.

1. Happy Birthday! - Read a book that you have chosen from the shelves of one of our November B-day Celebrants.
2. Guy Fawkes Day (11/5) – Read a book that takes place in England.
3. Veteran’s Day (11/11) – Read a book in which one or both of the main characters is in the military.
4. Young Readers Day (11/13) – Read a coming of age story or a book with a young character/s.
5. Have a Party with your Bear Day (11/16) - Read a book from the MM Books Featuring Bears list or a book featuring a bear shifter.
6. Take a Hike Day (11/17) – Best Gay Enemies/Rivals/Opposites Become Lovers
7. Thanksgiving (11/22) – Read a book that takes place over Thanksgiving or a book with fall colors on the cover.
8. Black Friday (11/23) – Read a book in which one of the MCs works in retail or a book with a completely black cover.
9. Group Hug - Read a book written by one of our group members (see link above).
10. Book of Your Choice - (BOM selection, Pick it for Me book, other challenge book, etc…)

Bonus: November 3rd is Book Lovers Day! Read a book that you’ve been dying to read or reread a book that you absolutely love.

Naughty and Nice ~ Book Review ~

 

Title: Naughty & Nice: Three Holiday Treats

Authors: Ruthie Knox, Molly O'Keefe, & Stefanie Sloane

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell

Pub Date: 5 November 2012

ISBN: 9780345544360

Pages: 210

Stars: 3.5/5

 

 

 

 

From the Publisher:

’Tis the season for romance with three original holiday-themed novellas! Unwrap this festive eBook bundle and discover why these authors are quickly becoming the biggest names in the genre. Ruthie Knox tells a heartwarming contemporary story of first loves given the gift of a second chance; Molly O’Keefe releases the ghosts of Christmas past with a prequel to her novel Crazy Thing Called Love; and Stefanie Sloane weaves an irresistible Regency tale of fiery passion that burns deep on a cold winter’s night.

ROOM AT THE INN by Ruthie Knox

Carson Vance couldn’t wait to get out of Potter Falls, but now that he’s back to spend Christmas with his ailing father, he must face all the people he left behind . . . like Julie Long, whose heart he broke once upon a time. Now the proprietor of the local inn, Julie is a successful, seductive, independent woman—everything that Carson’s looking for. But despite several steamy encounters under the mistletoe, Julie refuses to believe in happily ever after. Now Carson must prove to Julie that he’s back for good—and that he wants her in his life for all the holidays to come.
 
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU by Molly O’Keefe

Maddy Baumgarten and Billy Wilkins are spontaneous, in love, and prepared to elope the day after Christmas—that is, if Maddy’s family doesn’t throw a wrench in their plans. After all, Maddy’s barely out of high school and Billy’s a notorious bad boy. Maddy doesn’t care about Billy’s rough past—all she cares about is living in the here and now. But after Maddy’s mother stops speaking to her in protest, and a Christmas Eve heart-to-heart with her father leaves her with butterflies, Maddy starts to get cold feet. She loves Billy, but is she taking this big step too soon?
 
ONE PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Stephanie Sloane

After being jilted by her fiance, Jane Merriweather turns to her dear childhood friend, the Honorable Lucas Cavanaugh, for support—and unlocks the smoldering desire simmering in the man’s troubled heart. Frightened by his newfound feelings, Lucas flees to Scotland. But when the Christmas season brings them together again, one glance is all that’s needed to reignite his yearning. If Lucas can convince Jane that his intentions are as pure as the falling snow, they’ll turn a dreary December into a joyous Yuletide affair.

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Muddled-Up Farm ~ Book Review ~

 

Title: Muddled-Up Farm

Author: Mike Dumbleton

Publisher: Star Bright Books

Publication Date: 15 Mar 2013

ISBN: 9781595726308

 

 

From the Publisher:

Muddled-up Farm is a very special place. From the cat to the cow, the pig and the goat it is full of surprises that will have young readers laughing out loud as they discover everything that is mixed up on Muddled-up Farm! Muddled-up Farm is a Children’s Book Council of Australia Notable Book.

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Around the World in 80 Days Reading Challenge

Yep I am at it again.  Another Reading Challenge for you all.  This one is a lot of fun.  It last 3 months and starts TODAY.  It is the Around the World in 80 days (or so) Challenge.  It is the brainchild of the Romance Readers Reading Challenges group on Goodreads.  Here are the rules:

This challenge runs from November 15, 2012- February 15st, 2013. Please feel free to jump in at any time during the 3 months :)
There is no minimum page count, re-reads and audio books are allowed.

The Continents-
Asia
Africa
North America
South America
Europe
Australia
Antarctica

1. Read a book for each continent-
You may use the setting of the book, author's place of birth or current residence, or title of the book to read one book for each continent.
The author was born in the continent or lives there now. The setting of the book is from that continent. The title of the book contains the name of the continent.

And/ Or

2. Spell out a continent (or more than 1)
- any books can be used. As long as the book title or author's first or last name is found in the spelling of the continent, you may use it. The criteria in #1 above does not have to be met.
The first letter of the author's first or last name or the first letter of the first word in the book title may be used for this option. Articles such as the,a, an may be used or ignored.
Bonus-
When spelling out the continent in #2- Use only books related to a continent - author/ setting/title

So what am I reading?  Keep reading to find out :)

My First Words Outside ~ Book Review ~

Title: My First Words Outside

Author: Amy Geller

Publisher: Star Bright Books

Publication Date: 15 Mar 2013

ISBN: 9781595723321

Format: Board Book

 

 

From the Publisher:

In this photo-filled book featuring the great outdoors, there are dozens of words for babies and toddlers to learn.  A wonderful word-filled adventure awaits on every page where familiar and new objects, animals, and places abound!

My view:

Look Twice (Blaze of Glory #2) ~ Book Review ~

 

 

 

 

 

Title: Look Twice (Blaze of Glory Book #2)

Author: M. Garzon

Release: 12 Nov 2012

Link to my review of Blaze of Glory (Book 1)

 

From the Author:

Blood is thicker than water.
I didn’t understand that expression when I was a kid. I only knew that I was closer to my brother Seth than to anyone else in the world. He was the calm to my storm, the light to my dark. We were tied to the rest of our complicated family by bonds beyond blood—love, loyalty, convenience—but as it turns out, the pull of blood is strong. Maybe even strong enough to tear me away from the person with whom I shared my very first breath.

I have been eagerly awaiting the release of this book. I absolutely fell in love with Blaze of Glory by M. Garzon the first time I read it, so of course I jumped at the change to review Look Twice, the latest installment in Tea's story.  Read on for my review of Look Twice:

Surrender the Dark ~ Book Review ~

Title: The Three Musketeers #1: Surrender the Dark

Author: Donna Kauffman

Release Date: 8 October 2012

ISBN: 9780345537874

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group

 From the Publisher:

Surrender the Dark, the first novel in the Three Musketeers series by Donna Kauffman, offers the tantalizing story of a hardened, highly trained operative-and the woman who must save him.

They call themselves the Three Musketeers: three lifelong friends, men who will put it all on the line in the name of honor and loyalty. Jarrett McCullough values those bonds as seriously as he values his job heading a covert group of operatives skilled in handling sensitive international information. But his current mission has suddenly gone very wrong-and he finds himself wounded and near death in the last place he ever expected to be.

Rae Gannon is stunned to find her ex-boss bleeding from a gunshot wound, mere paces from her front door. It has been two years since her move to the remote Blue Ridge Mountains, where she tried to erase the memories and the pain she suffered from having been part of McCullough's team. Yet as Rae tends to Jarrett's battered body she realizes that the air between them is still sizzling with a slow-burning need. But this time there are more than just hearts at stake. The mission that almost got Jarrett killed threatens to put Rae back in harm's way. And if they surrender to their desires, it may cost them their lives.

Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: Blaze of Winter, Light My Fire, and Santerra's Sin.

 

My View:

November Reading Challenge #3 ~ Smut Challenge ~

My third challenge for the month is of course the smut challenge (from the Kindle Smut group on Goodreads).  This month's theme is "All in the Family"  it is actually a combined challenge for November and December so it has 10 books instead of only 5.

Here are the categories from which to choose:

Family Matters- Features a big family on one side or the other of the relationship
Keeping it in the family- an inlaw, step-sibling/step-parent, etc
Creating a new family- at least one person has a child already
Family is more than blood- a "family" unit made of good friends, closer than their blood relatives
OUT of the family- falling for someone different- IE human/shifter, human/vampire, different breeds of shifters falling for each other
Family Disapproval- someone in the family does NOT approve of the relationship for whatever reason
Modern Family- involves one of the newer definitions of family- either same sex or menage ending in commitment
Family business- siblings in business together, so are always meddling, there, etc
Instant family- accidental pregnancy, before marriage
Friend of the family- one or both have a pet that is part of the story
Estranged-where one or both are estranged from their family.
Broken Family- someone is either divorced or an orphan
Lost Family- One or more partner is a widow(er)

My Picks:

TruKid Hero Stick ~ Review and Giveaway ~

As a mom of 3 small children, I am constantly soothing bumps, scraps, and bites... of both the real and imaginary persuasion.  I love having something natural that I can use to sooth those bumps and scrapes.  The new Hero Stick from TruKid is a life saver for me.  It is in a solid stick form (much like an oversized chapstick) so I can keep it conveniently in my wristlet.  I haven 't carried a real purse in years, I either have my wristlet or my wristlet inside the full on diaper bag, so I like that it is small enough to fit conveniently in small places so I can always have it with me.

Like all TruKid products, the Hero Stick is made of natural ingredients that you can use on your kids with confidence.  The Hero Stick helps sooth all those little hurts, or so my kids tell me :)  One of my favorite uses has been for Mosquito bites, which are so prevalent here in the Houston area.  I have also used it on my kids' eczema when I was out of their prescription creams with success.

I encourage you to check out the Hero Stick and other items from the TruKid Lineup.

You can see my review of other TruKid products here.

TruKid on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Yelp

 

From the Manufacturer:

Mom's Kiss in a Stick! TruKids Hero Stick is a natural soothing balm that protects and soothes skin irritations. Perfect for backpacks and purses, moms kiss in a stick will make boo-boos, bug bites, eczema and rashes feel better. Made with Balm of Gilead, Calendula and Plantain Leaf to protect while skin heals. There are no parabens, artificial colors or fragrances in this biodegradable formula. 0.6 oz. tube.

Directions;Apply Hero Stick to burns, ezcema,  bites and other boo-boos to help protect your skin.

Ingredients
Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Cera Alba (Beeswax),Simmondsis Chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, Commiphora Gileadensis ( balm of gilead) extract, Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria(Chamomile)Flower Oil, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Calendula Officinalis Flower (Calendula),Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey) Root, Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort), Plantago Lanceolata (Plantain), Oleoresin Rosmarinue (Rosemary) Officinalis

 

All Organic Ingredients in this product are listed in BOLD

Thanks to TruKid for providing me a free sample of the Hero Stick in exchange for an honest review

 

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November Reading Challenge #2 ~ Spell It Out ~

My second reading Challenge for November is the Spell-it-out Challenge.  Take a word that means something to you in relation to the month and find a book for each letter in the word where the first letter of the Title or Author's name matches.

My Word for November is THANKSGIVING

My Picks:

The Marriage Mistake ~ Book Review ~

Release date: 6 Nov 2012

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

ISBN: 9781476717524

From the Publisher:
From the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Marriage Bargain comes the final installment in the Marriage to a Billionaire series

Jennifer Probst’s first book, THE MARRIAGE BARGAIN sold more than a half-million copies in six months and has spent more than 20 weeks on the New York Times bestsellers list. The contemporary romance followed an impulsive bookstore owner who gets wrapped up in the plans of a billionaire who doesn’t believe in marriage but needs to marry in order to inherit his father’s corporation. In THE MARRIAGE TRAP, a supporting character in the first book got her shot at love and marriage. THE MARRIAGE MISTAKE focuses on Carina, sister of Michael Conte, as she navigates through her own romantic adventure.

Carina Conte has had a crush on her brother Michael’s best friend, Max Gray, since she was a teenager. Now she’s earned her MBA and come to work at Michael’s new venture, America’s fastest-growing bakery empire. But some things never change: her family still treats her like a child. With three drop-dead gorgeous siblings, she’s still the ugly duckling of the bunch. And Max, the company’s new CEO, still barely notices her.

Max knows Carina Conte is strictly off limits. But hot-blooded lust wins out at a conference when the two share a scorching one-night stand—and are busted by her mother! Now, forced by old-world Italian tradition into a marriage he’s not ready for, Max is miserable—and Carina is furious. Her new husband is about to realize that hell hath no fury like a woman transformed….

My View:

Smartfoods ~ BzzAgent Review~

I recently had the pleasure of sampling some new treats from Smartfood Selects.  They have a number of varieties, but we tried the Sour Cream and Onion Puffed Corn, Garlic Tomato and Basil Hummus Popped Chips, and Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Multigrain Popped chips.

I will say that myself nor my children were huge fans of the Garlic Tomato and Basil Hummus chips.  I love hummus, but it just didn't translate well to chip form for me.  I can't really put my finger on why, I just no that I couldn't eat them and I couldn't even get my son, who will eat anything, to eat them either.

The Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Multigrain Popped Chips, however were very good.  They had just the right amount of sweet and spicy without being overwhelming.  The Chip itself was crispy and light without the grease and heaviness of "normal" chips.  They will definitely be purchased again.

The biggest hit was the Puffed Corn variety.  My kids kept coming back for more and more and I didn't feel guilty adding a few as a side to a good sandwich lunch or just as a snack during an afternoon of play.  They are a light and fluffy corn snack that is not fried.  Kind of like Popcorn but without the hull to deal with.  The seasoning was liberally applied but not overly so (does that even make sense?).  I will definitely be purchasing more varieties of these in the future.

 

I would like to thank Smartfood Selects and bzzAgent for providing me the product for free in exchange for my honest review.

Thoughtless ~ Book Review ~

Publication Date: 6 Nov 2012

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

ISBN: 9781476717470

For almost two years now, Kiera’s boyfriend, Denny, has been everything she’s ever wanted: loving, tender, and endlessly devoted to her. When they head off to a new city to start their lives together—Denny at his dream job and Kiera at a top-notch university—everything seems perfect. Then an unforeseen obligation forces the happy couple apart. Feeling lonely, confused, and in need of comfort, Kiera turns to an unexpected source—a local rock star named Kellan Kyle. At first, he’s purely a friend she can lean on, but as her loneliness grows, so does their relationship. And then one night everything changes . . . and none of them will ever be the same.

November Reading Challenge #1 ~ Cover hunt ~

My first reading Challenge for November is the Cover Hunt challenge.  For November the terms are as follows (from Happily Ever After Cafe on Goodreads):

Rules: Read 2 books with the following items found on their covers; choose 2 of the 3 options below. Be sure to post your book covers, dates read, and star ratings. If you want, you can do this at the end of the month after you reviewed your covers. Feel free to do all three if you want.

COLOR: Red!

HOLIDAY: (1) Thanksgiving - read a book about Thanksgiving or a gathering of friends and family, or a book about someone who discovers something to be thankful for they didn't expect to find. (2) It Summer 'Down Under' - so, to celebrate with the hemisphere, pick something to go with the Summer Holidays. (3) Veterans Day - read a book with some type of a member of the Armed Services in it. (4) Election Day - a book involving the political arena, or someone in politics. (5) Day of the Dead - read a book that involves a ghost or haunted place.

ITEMS: Topaz, Chrysanthemums, Elephant, Donkey, Flags, Clock (daylight saving time) Scorpio (Scorpian) & Saggitarius (The Archer), Bow and Arrow, fall leaves, Turkey, cornacorpia, people eating a dinner, football, parade, uniform, medals, pilgrims, pie, ships.

My Choices:

When Love Comes to Town ~ Book Review ~

Publication Date: 1 Mar 2013

Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company

ISBN: 9780807589168

With a new introduction by James Klise

First US Edition!
25th Anniversary

The year is 1990, and in his hometown of Dublin, Ireland, Neil Byrne plays rugby, keeps up with the in-crowd at his school, and is just a regular guy. A guy who's gay. It's a secret he keeps from the wider world as he explores the city at night and struggles to figure out how to reveal his real self--and to whom.
First published in Ireland in 1993 and compared to The Catcher in the Rye by critics, Tom Lennon's When Loves Comes to Town is told with honesty, humor, and originality.

Ages 13-up/Grades 7-up

Praise for the 1993 Irish edition
"In many ways his work is superior to The Catcher in the Rye."--Irish Times

Annual Reading Challenge - Series Challenge Take 2

Actually it is take 3.  Yep I have already completed this challenge twice since July.  I am starting on my third time through.  Though this is geared toward Romance/Erotic Romance, you could easily adapt it to whatever genre you prefer.  This was taken from the Erotic Enchants group on Goodreads.

Without further ado my Sexy Series Challenge Take 3:

Annual Reading Challenge - Around the Country in 51 Books

Exactly what is Sounds like: Read 1 book from each state in the US + Washington DC.  Not as easy as it sounds.  While there are TONS of books for places like Texas, New York, and California... finding a quality book set it, say, South Dakota... not so easy.  Here are my pics: (This one also comes from the M/M Romance group on Goodreads so all my pics are M/M)

Quarterly Reading Challenge

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October Reading Challenge #4 - Monthly Challenge

My fourth challenge for the month of October comes from the Goodreads M/M Romance group.  Though the challenge is geared toward this particular group, the guidelines can be easily extrapolated to your favorite genre.

1. Happy Birthday! - Read a book that you have chosen from the shelves of one of our October B-day Celebrants.
2. Name Your Car Day (10/2) – Read a book that has a car on the cover or features a mechanic as one of the main characters.
3. World Teacher’s Day (10/5) – Read a book with a main character is a teacher
4. Fire Prevention Day (10/9) – Read a book featuring firemen or that has fire on the cover.
5. United Nations Day (10/24) - Read a book that takes place in a country other than your own.
6. Navy Day (10/27) – Read a book with a sailor on the cover or military man as a main character.
7. Halloween (10/31) - Read a book with a pumpkin, black cat, or candy on the cover.
8. Breast Cancer Awareness Month – Read a book with a pink cover.
9. Group Hug - Read a book written by one of our group members (see link above).
10. Book of Your Choice

Bonus: It’s Apple Jack Month! Read a book that has fruit on the cover.

 

My picks:

October Reading Challenge #3 - Spell it Out

My thrid reading challenge for October is the Spell It Out challenge from the Goodreads We Love Lisa Kleypas group.

My word for this month is HALLOWEEN of course

October Reading Challenge #2 - Things that Go Bump in the Night

In honor of October, my second reading challenge (from the Goodreads Kindle Smut group) was "Things That Go Hump In The Night"

It is a simple challenge.  Choose 5 books from the following categories (only 1 book per category of course):

Vampires
Shifters of any sort
Ghosts
Witches
Zombies
Aliens
Demons
Fairies (real, not Twinks, thanks to Susinok for this one!)
Any other Mythical creatures you find.
People in costume and/or role playing (people in their own work uniforms do NOT count!)
A Halloween Party

 

Here are my picks:

October Reading Challenge #1 - Cover hunt

As I have for each of the last few months, I am participating in a few reading challenges this month. Yep I am late in posting, but I have already finished 2 of them. Here is the first one - The cover hunt from the Goodreads Happily Ever After Cafe group.

The Challenge is to read 2 or 3 books (one from each of the following categories).  I always choose to read 3.

For October the categories are:

COLOR: Pink!

HOLIDAY: (1) Hallowe'en (October 31st) Read a book that has witches/wizards, vampires, werewolves, anything paranormal in it. (2) National Adopt a Shelter Animal Month: Read a book featuring some type of animal adoption or an animal that was adopted from a shelter. (3) Eleanor Roosevelt (October 11) and Margaret Thatcher (October 13) birthdays - Read a book that has a woman in a position of power.

ITEMS: Opal (October birthstone), Marigolds (October flower), pumpkin, castle (inside one or one shown), Cookies, Magic (swirls or anything that could be considered magic happening), and anything Hallowe'en related...

My pics were:

Yearly Reading Challenge ~ Series Challenge

Another fun Challenge I have been working on (actually I have completed once and am working on again) is the Sexy Series Challenge from the Goodreads Group Erotic Enchantments (yep, another 18+ group with 18+ selections).  This one is really fun and results in over 40 books read.  It took me just over a month to go through it once and I just started round 2 of it.

1.) SMUT STALKER (21 BOOKS)

Take 6 series of your choice and start at any point in the series:

September Reading Challenge #4 ~ General Challenge

The fourth reading Challenge I am taking on for September is from the Goodreads M/M Romance group.  Though their requirements are that the books are from the M/M genre, this challenge could be easily adapted to meet your reading preferences.  here are the rules as they stand in the group:  (again this group is 18+ and so are many of my selections)

Categories:

1. Happy Birthday! - Read a book that you have chosen from the shelves of one of our September B-day Celebrants.
2. Labor Day (9/3) – Read a book that has a picnic on the cover or from our Profession: Blue Collar shelf.
3. Read a Book Day (9/6) – Read that book you’ve been craving, but haven’t gotten around to.
4. Teddy Bear Day (9/9) – Best Gay with Children
5. National Video Games Day (9/12) - Read a book that features a geek/nerd or has a computer on the cover.
6. National Cream-Filled Donut Day (9/14) – Read a smut filled book or a book involving the food service industry.
7. International Talk Like a Pirate Day (9/19) - Read a book with water on the cover or a book from the Best Gay Pirate/Sailor Book list.
8. Classical Music Month – Read a book that features the performing arts.
9. Group Hug - Read a book written by one of our group members (Group Member Authors).
10. Book of Your Choice - (BOM selection, Pick it for Me book, other challenge book, etc…)

Bonus: It’s National Blueberry Popsicle Month! Read a book that has a predominantly blueberry blue cover.

Here are my selections:

September Reading Challenge #3 ~ Back To School

Well this one is a fun one!  September is Back to School Month (well actually around here it is August, but September seems to be the universally accepted Back to School Month).  So on of the smutier groups (Kindle Smut warning: that group is 18+ and so are many of my selections) I am a part of on Goodreads is celebrating with the Back to School Challenge.  Here is how it goes:

Physical Education: Read a book that somehow has sports in it. Doesn't matter what, and the MC doesn't have to actually PLAY, they can just be ardent fans who watch a lot or go to the games.
Art: Read a book about an artist, gallery owner, or critic.
Music: Any type of musician or singer will do to get an "A" in this class.
Historical: Anything that takes place before you were born.
Social Studies: Any type of menage will do here!

To earn your PHD, you have to graduated, and then pick at least 5 more from these subjects:

Creative Writing--Fantasy story
Biology--genetically engineered characters/superheroes/cyborgs, etc
Home Ec--cook, chef, fashion/interior designer, food related
Shop Class--Mechanically inclined, mechanics, race car drivers
Business--CEO/Executive
Criminology--police/forensics, etc
Education--teacher/professor
Zoology--Shifter/Vamp
Medicine-- Anyone in the medical field
Drama-- Roll Play/BDSM games, etc

Here are my selections:

September Reading Challenge #2 ~ Spell It Out

My Spell it Out Challenge for September (borrowed from the Goodreads We Love Lisa Kleypas Group) is simple. Choose a word that represents September to you and read a book for each letter in that word. (Yes, you will see some overlap in the selections for each challenge)

For me this month the word is FIRST because baby girl will be having her First birthday this month.

September Reading Challenge #1 ~ Cover hunt Challenge

My first reading Challenge for September (from the Goodreads Happily Ever After Cafe group) is the Over in a Flash Cover hunt Challenge.

Here is how it works:

Over in a Flash ~ Cover Hunt & Theme Challenge ~ 

Duration: September 1st through September 30th.

Rules: Read 2 books with the following items found on their covers; choose 2 of the 3 options below. Be sure to post your book covers, dates read, and star ratings. If you want, you can do this at the end of the month after you reviewed your covers. Feel free to do all three if you want.

COLOR: Gold, Orange, or Rust (in recognition of the first day of Fall)

HOLIDAY: (1) Labor Day and Commemoration of September 11th – I am combining these two to recognize and honor first responders, and those workers who dedicate their lives to helping others in disasters and catastrophes. Read a book that features a fire fighter, law enforcement officer, paramedic, emergency room worker, such as a nurse or doctor, member of the Coast Guard or mountain rescue squad, or any person connected with some sort of disaster relief efforts; (2) The Jewish High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur – read a book that has a Jewish hero, heroine, or major secondary character; (3) Titanic – the wreck of the Titanic was discovered off the coast of Newfoundland on September 1, 1985, and 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. Read a book that features a character with a connection to the Titanic, such as someone who was on it, or survived the sinking, for example. Or a book where the Titanic figures somewhere in the plot or title. Addendum: Gerrie has expanded this to include books with stories set in some aspect of sailing - a cruise, an ocean liner, a yacht or sailboat, and characters who sail in some capacity - passenger, crew, etc. Even pirates.

ITEM: Sapphire (September birthstone); Morning Glory (September flower); Virgin (astrological sign) or the Scales (astrological sign); nine; ambulance; large cruise ship or ocean liner; police cruiser; hospital or emergency room; rescue helicopter; Autumn foliage; large or harvest moon; hay ride; people harvesting crops; fruit pie; blueberries (September fruit). Words: Fall, Autumn, harvest, labor.

 

My Selections:

August - December Reading Challenge - A to Z

So I recently completed an A to Z reading challenge.  It was quite fun and I and want to start another one.  The premise is simple, read one book that starts with each letter of the alphabet.  Q, X, Y, and Z are of course the most difficult.  Words such as "The" "A" "An", etc do not count against you.

This challenge was inspired by one of my groups on Goodreads (of course)

What books would you pick? I encourage you to try this challenge and leave your picks and progress in the comments below.  I will try to periodically update my progress with new posts as well.

A -
B -
C -
D -
E -
F -
G -
H -
I -
J -
K -
L -
M -
N -
O -
P -
Q -
R -
S -
T -
U -
V -
W -
X -
Y -
Z -

August Reading Challenge #3 - Protect and Serve

My 3rd reading Challenge for August is the Protect and Server reading Challenge.  Find 1 book with a hero/heroine in each of the following professions:

Cops (could be police or FBI, CIA, whatever)
Firefighters
Medics/EMTs
Doctors
Armed Forces- army, navy, marines, air force, whatever your country has.

Again, I invite you to join me and share your choices and progress in the comments below.

Here are my choices:
Cops - Cop Out by K.C. Burn
Firefighters - Hot Head by Damon Suede
Medics/EMTs - Collision Course by K.A. Mitchell
Doctors - No Souvenirs by KA Mitchell
Armed Forces - Wild Card by Lora Leigh

August Reading Challenge #2 - Over in a Flash

The August Over in a Flash challenge is very special to me, because I was invited to be the one that set the boundaries.  Since August doesn't have any "big" holidays, I had some fun with this challenge.  I invite you to join me.

Rules: Read 2 books with the following items found on their covers; choose 2 of the 3 options below. Be sure to post your book covers, dates read, and star ratings. If you want, you can do this at the end of the month after you reviewed your covers. Feel free to do all three if you want.

COLOR: Green 
HOLIDAY: Back to School (All Month) - Read a book that stars a school age (college, high school) hero/heroine, Hawaii Becomes a State (August 21, 1959) - Read something that takes place in Hawaii (for help with this state, go here or here) or another Tropical/Beach location. Indy Speedway hosts it's first race (August 19, 1909) - Read a Book that features a Auto Racer, Fast cars, or people that like to turn in circles over and over. The A-Bomb is Dropped on Hiroshima (August 6, 1948) - Read a Book that takes place during a War or features a Military Hero/Heroine, or does NOT have a HEA.
ITEM: Peridot (August Birthstone), Onyx (August Secondary Birthstone), Lion or Virgin (Astrological Signs), Gladiolus or Poppy (Birth Flower), eight, watermelon, chocolate, marshmallow, cake, candles, pens/pencils, notebooks, jewelry, lighthouse, volcano, waffle, airplane. Words: birthday, school, class, gold, dream.

My books for this challenge (I always choose one for each category):

Color: The Look of Love by Bella Andre
Theme: Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles (High School Age Hero/Heroine)
Item: Seduction and Snacks by Tara Siver (Chocolate)

August Reading Challenge #1 - Spell it Out

As you know I love reading Challenges.  So Here is my first one for August.  The Spell It Out Challenge.  My word for August is BIRTHDAY.  Why you ask?  That is easy My husband, myself, and my oldest all are August babies :)  So without further ado here are my books for the August Spell It Out Challenge:
B - Between the Lines by Tammara Webber
I - Infatuation by Melissa Schroeder
R - Reason to Breathe by Rebecca Donovan
T - Tempting the Best Man by J. Lynn
H - The Heart of Texas by RJ Scott
D - Deacon's Touch by Callie Croix
A - A Matter of Time by Mary Calmes
Y - You Don't Know Jack by Erin McCarthy

SuperFoods Snacks ~ Giveaway ~

Are you looking for an all-natural source of energy that will not give you the caffeine crash? Since I gave up caffeine for all intents and purposed in 2003, I always have my eye out for a way to boost energy without the chemical buzz of products heavily laden with caffeine (Yes chocolate has some caffeine in it but it really is a small, small amount in comparison to most "normal" sources, but I digress).

Another trend in today's health food is Raw food. Of course, the first thing I think of when I hear the term RAW is photography, but in this case one really has nothing to do with the other (I guess I am babbling a bit, oh well I do that sometimes).

I recently had the opportunity to try SuperFoods Raw Chocolate Energy Nuggets.

Each featuring a different assortment of SuperFoods and Raw Chocolate!

• Brazilian Chocolate Ecstasy, the tropical blend.


• Chocolate Goji Treats, the flavor that started it all, the 5 element blend.


• Green Chocolate Dream, the Green Super Food Blend


• Chocolate Cherry Qi, the Cherry Clarity blend.

Now I will admit, they weren't my thing. The Chocolate was just too strong for a non-chocolate girl like me. But my husband LOVED them.  They gave him energy without the crash, something he is constantly looking for given his 1-1.5 hour commute and long days in the office.

Find SuperFoods on the Web: Facebook, Twitter, You Tube

SuperFoods wants to give 1 of my readers their very own Raw Chocolate Energy Nuggets variety pack!  Use the Rafflecopter below to enter:

 

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

CollageIt ~ Review ~

I have said it before, but I like to repeat myself, I love finding new and fun ways to display my photographs.   I have software that I use to edit and compose, but sometimes I want some quick and easy.  And for many the software I use is out of reach and/or too intimidating.

CollageIt offers a fun an easy way to create well Collages of your favorite snap shots.  Turning something simple into something elegant and ready for display.



CollageIt is easy to use. You simply import the photos you want to put into your collage and then decide on the layout you want. You can randomize the photos or place them individually. You can choose how many photos are in the collage and how they are arrange, spaced, and bordered.



 





There are a fair number of built in arrangements, even in the Free version (which is what I used for this review). You can crop and do some basic editing on the photo's once they are imported in order to get the most from your photos.



 

You can find CollageIt via the Apple App Store or  their website.

They have given me 20 codes to give away to my readers, so the first 20 to contact me will get one. I had trouble getting these codes to work with the Mac version, however.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Love QR Code Necklace ~ Review & Giveaway ~

What could be better than a necklace that offers the wearer daily inspiration?  I don't know about you, but I know there are days that I really need that.  Alexa's Angels offers a unique and beautiful piece of jewelry that does just that.  The Love QR Code Necklace Is both Beautiful and functional.



The Front features a intricate laser cut design featuring the word love.  While the reverse features a QR Code that, when scanned, offers the reader a inspirational message that changes daily.



So for the Million Dollar question... What in the world is a QR code?  You have seen them with increasing regularity in magazine, on advertisements, in stores, and even on the TV.  You can use your smartphone (with the appropriate app of course) to "read" the QR code.  It then sends you to the embedded website for more information.  In this case, for a daily inspirational quote.



About Alexa's Angels:

Proud to be a company with a social conscience, the team at Alexa's Angels is dedicated to creating, finding and supporting programs that benefit women. Their mission is to be a great example of how a socially responsible company can make a difference.

Find Alexa's Angels on the Web:  Facebook and Twitter

Enter Below for your chance to win your own Love QR Code Necklace:

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Tiger Balm ~ Review & Giveawat~

As I have said before, I have 3 kids under the age of 5.  I stay home with them, so they are always under foot. Tension and stress is a way of life for me.  As with many others, my tension and stress lives in my neck and shoulders and often leads to tension headaches.  I am so used to headaches that I often just live with them, because I don't want to be popping Tylenol all the time.

One way to ease the tension and pain in your neck and shoulders is Tiger Balm Neck and Shoulder Rub.  Containing a soothing and stimulating mixture of  camphor and menthol, you simply rub Tiger Balm on your tense muscles to help them relax. Great when you don't have someones persistent hands available to give you a much needed massage.   It is water based so there is no greasy feel and no after marks on your clothing.  It smells soothing, rather than medicinal.  I keep it handy for days like today when I have a headache starting in my shoulders.

You can ENTER TO WIN a trip for two to beautiful Mendocino County in Northern California – including airfare, hotel and $1,000, Tiger Balm products by entering the Tiger Balm Sweepstakes.  Enter on their Facebook page.

You can download a $2 off Coupon on their Facebook page as well.

Find Tiger Balm on Facebook and Twitter

Win your Very own Tiger Balm by using the Rafflecopter below.  End 8/9/12 Open to the US only.

For temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with:

• Neck and shoulder pain


• Minor aches and pains


• Minor muscle strain


• Bruises


• Sprains

DRUG FACTS:

Active Ingredients: Camphor (11%), Menthol (10%)

Inactive Ingredients: Dementholized Mint Oil, Diazolidinyl Urea, Eucalyptus Oil, FD&C Blue 1, Glycerin, Lavender Fragrance, Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Methylparaben, PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer, Propylene Glycol, Propylparaben, Triethanolamine (TEA), Water.

Warnings: FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. When using this product:

• Use only as directed


• Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes


• Do not apply to wounds, damaged or irritated skin


• Do not bandage or cover with wrap or use heating pad


• Do not use 1 hour prior to bathing or 30 minutes after bathing

Stop use and ask a doctor if:

- Condition worsens

- Severe skin irritation occurs

- Pain persists for more than 7 days

- Pain clears up and then recurs a few days later

If pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Other Information

• This product may cause allergic reaction in some individuals. Test on small area before use.

Directions:

• For adults and children over 12, rub well on the affected area. Repeat 3 to 4 times daily.


• For children 12 years of age or younger, consult a healthcare professional before use.

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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Instant Chalkboard ~ Review and Giveaway ~

Kids love to write on walls.  I really hope all kids like to write on walls, because I KNOW my kids do.  In an effort to stem this trend, I recently discovered stick-on Instant Chalkboards and I am in LOVE.   They are peel and stick and work like a quality chalk board, unlike some of the "chalkboard paint" I have encountered.  They write smoothly and most importantly erase easily.






I recently installed the 12" high roll in our play room and the kids took right to it.  They love drawing on it, writing on it, playing games they make up on it and most importantly, it doesn't take up any of the extra floor space that so precious when you have 3 kids and way too many toys.




The 12" roll is only one of the many configurations of chalkboard available.  There are Decals in fun or decorative shapes, large rectangles, small rectangles, rolls, and more.  Even if you don't have kids, you can probably find a use for a instant chalkboard (or 2 or 3) in your house.  I want to get another one for meal planning and shopping lists to put into my kitchen.  I would love one in my craft room for making notes as I am working on a project.



 

You have a chance to win your own Instant Chalkboard.  Just enter below using the Rafflecopter:

 
a Rafflecopter giveaway



I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Hair Chalk - A Fun Way to Color

So I have dark brown hair.  There is not a whole lot you can do with dark brown hair to color it short of going darker (which I have before) or using some bleach (which I have not... well there was that one time I got highlights, but that was only once).  Mostly I just leave my hair to it's own colored devices.

Well almost 5 years ago I gave birth to a beautiful blonde little girl.   What girl doesn't like to play with their hair?  My eldest is no exception.  She won't keep clips in her hair, but she jumped at the chance to color her hair in a safe, non-permanent manner.  Enter Hair Chalk.



To me they look like pastels an artist would use, but I am no artist so I can't confirm that.  It comes in a set of 12 rainbow colors.  M insisted on coloring her hair white, but we convinced her to give a few more bold choices a try.  At first they chalks did not see all that use friendly, but in the end we learned that there is a little bit of a coating that needs to be scrapped off and the chalks work better after they have been dampened a bit.  Overall they were a bit messy to use, but the achieved effect was as desired.  It should be kept far from little kids fingers, however, because they are a mess waiting to happen.

Here is the end result:

 

Here is a Video to tell you  How to Use the new Hair Color Chalk

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.