Thursday, March 29, 2012

DRAYKON

Author: Charlotte E. English
Published By: C. E. E.
Age Recommend: 16
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Draykon" by Charlotte E. English was indeed a cute fantasy with lots of mystery. The author was able to tell the story using a very detailed fantasy world that seened real. The words were quite different and that made it a little hard for me but I did get through this read. Words like 'orting, 'shortig,' and 'gwaystrel' (and many more) were used in this fantasy novel and I will only say you will have to read "Draykon" to figure out just what these names are referring to. You may be surprised.

The setting of this story was in Glinnery but I was a little confused that at sometime in the novel I didn't know where I was at that time... I know there were seven realms with each having there own strange names and people. Then there were the upper and lower realms and really I didn't know where I was.... but going back and re- reading I was able to finally figure it out. This could be made a little clearer for the reader. Maybe a map was needed (smile). I know that is just part of the fantasy and I am keeping that in my mind. Another notation I would like to say....The beautiful stone was refer to as a 'istore' (mysterious gem) and for the life of me I didn't understand that word for this stone. However, the word 'instore' did make it very interesting mystery.

I did like the way the author used her twist and turns in the novel. That really made it a good read because you were left wanting to know just what was going to happen next. The author uses a lots of imagination.

The characters were unique...starting with Llandry, Eva, Tren, Fin, Ana, Griel, Mrs. Geslin, Ynara, Vale, Aysun, and Devary .... I am sure I left out a few .... really were an interesting group of people...summoners and sorcerers...hunting the creatures and there is the draykon.

The ending of "Draykon" was quite different and I will not tell you about it...you will only have to read this good read. If you are in for a good fantasy mystery... this one is for you.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

WoNdeR


Author: R. J. Palacio
Published By: Random House Children's Books
Age Recommend: 14+
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA

                                       5  STARS FOR WONDER!


"Wonder" by R.J. Palacio was a remarkable read. I must say Ms. Palacio that
I have never read a novel that was simply unique, wonderful and very exceptional
all rolled up on one. Simply the novel was all of that and more! It was one of a
kind! This book is for all.... children, teenagers and adults will enjoy this wonderful
read. The author told this story beautifully. It was a read that I could not put
down until I had finished.

August (Auggie) was born with an unknown birth defect, having over twenty-five
surgeries... was now ten years old and never had been to school. Auggie had been
home schooled by his Mom. Now, his parents decided it was time for him to go to
school ... so as a fifth grader he is now attending his first year of middle school at
Beecher Prep.What will he encounter in the school and how Auggie handles situations
are only left for you to read this wonderful read. I really liked the way the author was able
to present Augie who was prepared to take on life and not feel sorry for himself.

The characters.... all of them were great in their deliverance of the story.... especially
August (Auggie) sister, Via, Summer, Jack, Mr. Browne, and Mr. Tushman (only to
name a few)....Truly, I would brought to tears at some of the emotions that were played
out in this read. There was one sentence that I liked and it was ...a new rule of life...always
try to be a little kinder than is necessary.... in our everyday life do we do this?
Definitely our world would be a much better place if we were more kinder to each
other!

With the love his Auggie's family, friends support and all the goodness
that can be really found in people, one can clearly see Auggie for who he is and
not for just what he looks like. Truly Auggie deserved to win the Henry Ward
Beecher medal. WoW! and the saying... "I'm just me. An ordinary Kid."
"Wonder" was a amazing novel and I would like to recommend this read to all.
For it is a novel that everyone can get something good from this read.

Monday, March 26, 2012

SHADOW OF THE wITTE wIEVEN

Author: Debbie Peterson
Published By: Inkspell Publishing
Age Recommend: 14+
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Shadow of the Witte Wieven" by Debbie Peterson was a good read especially if you are in for fairy, ghost (ship), mystery and romance read. I found this a cute fun and lovable story. The story was definitely one that would keep you on the edge of your seat trying to follow this heroine...

Aliyana Montijo was a DEA (agent) that was to stop the assassination of top officials that had been ordered by the 'Colombian Drug Lord'(Emil Mercado Just how this author was able to get this story told using the time line was simple great.When Aliyana is over the Bermuda Triangle and the plane crashes ... there she meets up with Wolfaert Dircksen Van Nes (Wolf) and his crew. Aliyana now as a bounty on her head.....Just who could she trust? Her brother had told her to never trust anyone.
Will Wolf and his crew be able to help her bring down the cartel?
There is so mush conspiracy's and corruptions going on in this
story you really have to keep up with who is doing what to who?... because you may get lost in all the suspense.

Wolf, the hero who was oh so sexy in his moves for Aliyana.
Wolf not only wanted to help protect Aliyana... but will he be able to
save the day? And oh how he loved his 'Lieveling'.. You will have to read this story to find out just who that is..... Were they falling in love?

The characters of "Shadow of The Witte Wieven" were all very good showing there abilities to help this heroine(Aliyana) with her task of this mission.


In the end you will find "Shadow of the Witte Wieven" a very amazing story that you will find hard to put down until you are finished. I would definitely recommend this to a young and adult reader especially if you like fairy tale endings!


Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboard...







Truly, Madly, Deeply, You

Author: Cecilia Roberts
Published By: Inkspell Publishing
Age Recommend:16
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

Truly, Madly, Deeply, You, by Cecilia Robert was a sweet light Valentine's Day romance. The two main characters are Liese Hansfeld and Fretag Meier were simply wonderful. I really enjoyed the way the author put this this sweet short story together.

Liese was in her home for her annual four days of mourning of her true love. However, her best friend Freytag decides that this year he would make things a little different for Liese. With Freytag having deep feelings for Liese just how was he prepared to let her know of the way he truly feels about her. There were two obstacles standing his Freytag way: With Liese feeling of guilt (for her husband and child that had died in a car crash) and another man who had wanted to get involved with Liese. Fregtag who was Liese's best friend was determined to distract her from all of those distractions (Liese pain and grief) and help her see that he(Freytag) can be much than just a best friend for her. How will Fretag succeed? You will just have to read this wonderful novel to find out the answer.

I found Truly, Madly, Deeply, You by Cecilia Robert was a good sweet beautiful romance novel and I believe anyone who would like a quick
short romance will enjoy this good read.

Saturday, March 24, 2012

THE DOGTROT MURDER

Author: R.E. Schobernd
Published By: R.E.S.
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating 5
Blog Review For: Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:

"The Dogtrot Murder" by R.E. Schobernd was fantastic crime/mystery read. Truly the author did wonderful job with this storytelling. Carter Johnson worked for a group that seek vigilante justice for those who have been persecuted and wronged by the lawful legal system. Now, Carter Johnson is working as James Walkington in this story who is investigating a guilty verdict against Kate Menke. James has been asked to investigate Kate's case to see if there is any reason this conviction should be reversed.

Kate Menke was convicted of murdering her husband (Gerhart) but members of the group and family (a friend) do not believe in her guilt. So, James being the forceful person he is goes into his vigilante style of revenge (justice)to get her out of this incarceration.

James had his hands really full with this case. The characters were really entertaining in there mannerism of greed..... Simon, Sally, Ellis and Margaret. There were some other characters to you will only have to read this novel to find out just how they were presented. James' way of investigating is simply wonderful.... being that he was a no none sense take charge person. I think even Russell (formerly Harrison) realized that fact. James did what he had to do and as for the bad person... nothing stopped him from getting the truth. His methods may have been really unauthorized (dealing with drugs, suffering and even death) however, remember he was to get the information he needed for for his client....even if its the vigilante style of justice. As the story goes on.... Kate while in prison gets to be a much tougher person that make her more determined to get things done. I don't want to give anymore away so you will have to get this great read for yourself. I liked the way the author brings in the fact that maybe we will be seeing Kate in the future series?

I really enjoyed "The Dogtrot Murder" and if you are in for a good mystery, crime and suspense you will also enjoy this read.

The Blonde Heiress

Author: R. E. Schobernd
Published By: R. E. S.
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:

"The Blonde Heiress" by R.E. Schobernd was a fantastic read. The author really put in much thought into this novel and I found the story line very intriguing. When you say it all comes out good in the end.... well .... this is really one with a different ending. It will leave you thinking WoW!

Carter A. Johnson had just received a innocent verdict for murder. Then Carter
resigns from the police department and then he takes a secretive job where he can
carry our his own vigilante justice from those who have escaped by the regular
normal channels. How Carter was chosen for this job isn't a mystery to those who
chose him for this job. Why was that?... You will find out from this read.

Carter works the investigation and this story goes at a fast pace that will keep you
on the edge of your seat. There will be a lots of stuff going on that will keep your
attention for this read such as you will find this novel full of bullets shootings, sexy women,
speeding car chasings and killings. All of this isn't too much for Carter... For he is in his
element....and he loves it. How Carter works and snags these greedy people and
brings down 'Smalley' is truly a work of art.

"The Blonde Heiress" was a wonderful read and if you are in for a good mystery and
suspense then this novel is for you.


Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=thrillers&thread=1238#ixzz1q3fs9ihQ

Friday, March 23, 2012

Run from Fear

Author: Jami Alden
Published By: Grand Central Publishing
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Run From Fear" by Jami Alden was a good romantic suspense read for me. The story is of Talia Vega who was trying to have a normal life... in Northern California with her eighteen year old sister (Roseario) after she had earlier gone through a living hell of a
life with Nat Brewster, David Maxwell, and Margaret Grayson-Maxwell.

Life was looking up for Talia until she started receiving 'gifts' that had been previously
given to her by David Maxwell. Talia had made some bad mistakes with her life and was
trying to put it all behind her and started a new life for herself and her sister.
And then an old friend comes back into her life....Jack Brooks. Talia did not know that
 Jack had been watching over her for the past two years... and there the story really takes off presenting many twist and turns all over  the place.... in that Talia was still having to deal
with all the fear from being kidnapped to her now trying to rebuild a normal her life with
 her sister. What part is Jack in her life and does she care of him? These are questions that
will be answered in the read.


Jack had been there for Talia and her sister for he had always been very protective
of Talia... waiting patiently for her that maybe there would be a romantic relationship
for them ...oneday....Jack had a very horrible life with his own family life . He had also
had trouble trying to save a friend .... a Green Beret teammate then later the aftermath of
 the murder-suicide and now he was back to help with Talia and the threats that were
going on in her life. There was indeed a up and down situations that you will only have
 to read this for yourself to truly understand just what was going on between these two
 people (Talia and Jack). Sometimes Talia was truly a headache... in that could she not see
what was in front of her own eyes? But I can understand .... Talia had been through so much
pain!

In the end you will see that "Run From Fear" was mainly about keeping Talia safe from the
maniac who now wanted her dead. The characters were all very well played and the vicious villains.... wow! Will you find that this hero and heroine were really made for each other?
You must read this good read to find out. Truly, I would not mind having a hero like Jack!


"Run From Fear" was indeed a very interesting suspenseful romantic read and
if you are in for that.... you will love this read.


Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=thrillers&thread=1237&page=1#ixzz1pybQ5EzU

Promise Me Eternity

Author: Ian Fox
Published By: I.F.
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Promise Me Eternity" by Ian Fox was indeed good suspense
mystery. The author really had a lots going on in this novel. It was a long read and if you are able to stick with it.. lots of details ....you will find its a very good read. The characters go on and on....Dr. Simon Patterson, (his wife) Helen, Anita and Jerry, Carlo and Christine, Edna, and Paul Tuttle only to name a few.
All of these characters and more really prove to be very interesting people in this novel that changes a lot in each chapter. You will have to definitely keep up or you will be left wondering just what is going on.

"Promise Me Eternity" was a fast paced read that took many twist and
turns to that you had to follow to keep up. For you will find a lots of suspense, jealousy, affairs and murders. Truly money was of great importance in this novel.

Dr. Simon Patterson was a well know neurosurgeon from Oregon, married
fifteen years to is wife Helen. Simon has spent a lot of this time with trying to develop an anti aging vaccine. His wife was all about the money she can get her hands on for for her clothes, cars, vacation trips and more..she wanted it all... now. Real problems arrive from this behavior and when Simons saves a gangsters life (Carlo Vucci)
who offered Simon a check for Fifty Thousand dollars and Simon refuses and this greatly upsets his wife... Helen. Then Carlo's wife (Christine) makes a play for Simon...then Simon wife (Helen) is murdered ... Who kills Helen and why is Simon accused of her murder?

The story is loaded with so many twist and turns that you will
you will only have get this great read to find out just what is going on. I do not want to give too much of it away. However, you
will definitely be in for a good read with all of its suspense that is presented because there is never a dull moment in this read all the way to the end. As you continue to read you will find out what fate comes to Dr. Simon Patterson and how or if he will he get out this mess. Who is really responsible for what has happened to Simon? Also, what's up with those lovely beautiful roses that are in Simons's yard?

I can only say if you are in for a good suspense mystery "Promise Me Eternity" will be a good read for you.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

FAERIE WISHES

Author: Valerie Bowen
Published By: V. B.
Age Recommend: 16
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating 4
                    Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Faerie Wishes" by Valerie Bowen was a cute and sweet romantic fantasy read. I really enjoyed this storytelling by Ms. Bowen. Talia Saturnfrost was a fae and had dreams of living among the humans....becoming a human. After Talia
 meets and falls in love with Cayden (who was a human) she decides that this is what she wants and that is to leave her forest home and live with the human...Cayden.
Her best friend Juniper was not for her doing this...but Talia had her own ideas on this matter and she wanted this dream to become a reality for her. So, just how this  all turns out you will have to pick up this novel. But I will let you know that sometimes  what you ask for may not be the best of you...as in this story. Sometimes some wishes can even almost kill you.

The characters in this story were outstanding.. For there was Tailia, Cayden,
Juniper, Deaghan, Thorn, Arielle, Haleigh and Samuel. The author did a wonderful
job in her storytelling of "Faerie Wishes." There were some twist and turns that were
 interesting... especially toward the end.

Will Talia and Cayden live happy ever after or will there be someone who will
comes into this story and presents issues between them? Again you will have to read
find out for yourself. It will be worth the read to find out just how this 'wish'
does turn out.

"Faerie Wishes" was a short, sweet fantasy romance that I did enjoy and
I think if you are into fantasy you will like this good read.

Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=supernatural&thread=1232&page=1#ixzz1pmaDockB

Monday, March 19, 2012

A BROODING BEAUTY

Author: Jillian Eaton
Published By: J. A. E.
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:










"A Brooding Beauty" by Jillian was a good short romance novel. The author really worked her magic with this story and it really turn out to be a cute story dealing with Catherine and Marcus (Duke of Kensington).

The story was of two people that had misunderstood each other in more ways
 than one. Marcus leaves to work in America and upon his return hears that
his wife has been cheating on him. (Rumors) Instead of this couple talking
 about this situation both of them are now distant and very short with each
other. Next .... Catherine is wanting a divorce even though she still loves Marcus.....
even through she believed he had a mistress. (Rumors) Naturally Marcus says NO
 to the divorce. How the author is able to bring this couple back together is a work
of art. Will Catherine and Marcus finally be able to talk and work out their problems?...
Had their been any affairs? You must read this novel to find out.

"A Brooding Beauty" had a blend of sexual heat and love. For this was
truly a romance novel and wow what an ending. I really liked it! If you are in for a
quick sweet romance then this novel, "A Brooding Beauty" is for you.




Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=romance&thread=1231#ixzz1pcZziMSa

HIS CHOSEN BRIDE

Author: Sherry Gloag
Published By: Astraea Press
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:


"His Chosen Bride" by Sherry Gloag was a sweet romantic story. I liked the way the author presented this storytelling. It was truly all about family. For Henri... his thoughts were to have his father pick his bride. The King of Scotland who had been ill.. was now well and wanted to his son Henri Pierre Gasquet (who had taken care of all his responsibilities while he was ill) to take an indeterminate leave of absence. Where? and Why? (to find a bride)?....

Henri went to Liam and Melanie (his brother and wife) who had a farm and they ran a Riding School for Children with special needs.' While there Henri was not the only visitor at this time... for there was Monica Latimer who Henri quickly is to blame her for reasons that didn't really make any sense... was there something going on between these two? Monica wasn't for letting any male get too close to her to learn of her Gift...This gift ususally sent men leaving quickly after they found out about it. Just what was this gift? Well you will have to read this novel "His Chosen Bride" to find out just what abilities Monica had. I am not telling...(smile).

The characters: Henri, Liam, Melanie, Monica, Simeon, and Sacha were simply wonderful. I enjoyed how the author was able to get this story all together quickly and very smoothly. In the end will Henri and Monica be able to get together? What does the future hold for them?

I found "His Chosen Bride" a very delightful read and if you are in for a good romance this read is for you. This novel was one that I could not put down until I was finished.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Inspirational Quotes

Ms Jennifer  O'Neill's Inspirational Quotes are very good and to the point.
This was a wonderful and quick  read.

Here is one of the quotes I liked:

"You only have one plate to fill, if you filli t with everyone else's stuff,
there will not be enough room for your own stuff."

COMPROMISING KESSEN

Author: Rachel Van Dyken
Published By: Astraea Press
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA





Review:
"Compromising Kessen" was a definitely good fun romance
read with it being a modern day but yet it had bits of history in the story.
Both of these together made this story a fantastic read. It was one that
was hard to put down until I was finished. I really like all the humor it had
bringing out a lots of interesting situations that you will only have to read
and find out just what it is all about. I was definitely laughing out loud
all the way through this storyline. The novel had some awesome
characters: Kessen, Christian, Nick and Duncan.... only to name a few but
there are some more that you will find interesting in this read. It is very
good how the author is able to draw you into the story.


Certainly, Kessen and Christian were made for each other and let's not
forget Nick and Duncan... with all of their craziness... in this story was
just wonderful! I would not mind having friends like Nick and Duncan!


If you are in for a fun and humorous ride... look no farther..."Compromising
Kessen" will be a good read for you.


Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=romance&thread=1227#ixzz1pUxDg8Pq

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Her Dark Baron

Author: Nadja Notariani
Published By: NN
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:4
Blog Reviewed For: GMTA
Review:

"Her Dark Baron" by Nadja Notariani was a good romantic read. The story setting was in the 1600's and all I can say is if there are any more barons out there.... well I will not say more.... you will just have to read this novel for yourself. I liked it!
How Ms. Notariani is able to relate this story of Mariel and Gervase Daltrey (the hero and heroine) who both were strong characters... was very interesting that you will fall in love with them. . I enjoyed this medieval romance. For Gervase, Mariel was truly his 'Sweetling.'

The story line really had a definite plot and the novel was short compared to many others that are longer and go on and on. The details were well understood that made this storytelling a delightful read. I felt that the novel was well written in the three stages of this story: the beginning .. the meeting of the baron...the soon marriage and then the punch line...just who was trying to hurt Mariel? Then the story really takes off with this mystery... I did like the twist and turns of it.

I felt "Her Dark Baron" was indeed very sexy and intriguing read and if you are in for a good romance, "Her Dark Baron" would be a good read.

Walking With Elephants

Author: Karen S. Bell
Published By: K.S.B.
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:



"Walking With Elephants" by Karen S. Bell was a very good read for me.
Believe me when I say the name of this Book and Cover will throw you
because I was truly in for a different ride until I read this novel and was Truly Surprised!
I was able to relate to many of the thoughts of Ms. Bell. Many times
women such as Suze Hall who is a middle aged woman are presented with life....husband, children,
housework, job(corporate world) and then there are friends... even an ex lover(former flame).
Truly Suze was stressed to the Max!
This story was truly a real one in that it really showed just what happens
in real life to many of... us women. Many women today are faced with
a lots of basic life...work and family issues. How we handle them are sometime very interesting ....
as in Suze's case.
I found myself laughing so hard at a lot as I read this novel... for I found it completely
honest in more ways than one. How Suze handles everything makes
this truly a interesting read. The author really did a wonderful job at
showing emotions, making us laugh out loud, to frustrations, to angry and
even some sympathy.

Truly being Suze for a day will be a real ride... whether its in the workplace,
sex fantasies, or the hard working mom.... you will enjoy this read.
"Walking With Elephants" was truly a good read and I am sure if you are a working mom now
or in the past... you are able relate to Suze and will definitely enjoy this fun read.


Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=women&thread=1223#ixzz1pP3Gp4Rx

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

The Heart of The Rose

Author: Kathryn Meyer Griffin
Published By: Eternal Press
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For:
GMTA













Review:
The Heart of The Rose" by Kathryn Meyer Griffin was a very good read.
This story is so full of historical (Civil Wars)information that you are made to feel that you are there. This story is around the time of King Edward IV. The heroine in the story definitely Bronwyn. I felt she had a good heart. Truly she had such devotion to her sisters,
son and even her friends. There are several sexual scenes (rape scenes)
that are graphic and was very hard to read. However, I believe the author was trying to get the reader to understand just how terrible this was. And she did!


I thought that the author did a good job with the story... maybe a little long but we needed to know all of this information so we could understand the novel. In the read we find ...Was Bronwyn a witch or just a power healer?

Bronwyn was a poor peasant girl that had to face a lot of things in her life. Her parents were dead and she was left to fend for her two sisters and later her son, Johnny. There were many many obstacles placed in her life... Truly Bronwyn was trapped by two different men and how the author presents this story is really good. I was never bored because there was always something happening that would keep you interested till the end. I found it hard to put this novel down due to the fact I was always wanting to know just what was going to happen next. In the end was Bronwyn a witch or just a power healer and would she be saved?


"The Heart of The Rose" was indeed a good historical and romance read
and if you are into details get ready for a good read.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

SANCTUM ANGELS

Author: Edenmary Black
Published By: eBookit.com
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:


"Sanctum Angels" by Edenmary Black was a wonderful paranormal romance read. I really enjoyed the way the author was able to relate to the reader what she was truly feeling at that certain time. I found this novel very easy to read and understand
because you were truly walked through every scene.. with the reader beingable to know just what was going on at all times. From the first scene ...going to the bank until the very last scene by describing everything that was going on......... And believe me when I say a lots went on in the story. You were right in with the story whether it was a sexual sense between the lovers in this story
or just the general issues that went on in this story that just kept me on the edge of my seat. I was not disappointed in any way. This was definitely a adult romance. Truly Priana Grey and Joe Cafasis were my hero's. The characters were truly good in this interesting plot and less not forget Keircan
and Iridea for all they brought to this story.
I really did enjoy reading "Sanctum Angels" and would definitely recommend as
a good read and if you are a paranormal romance lover .... you will not be disappointed with this read.



Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=supernatural&thread=1209&page=1#ixzz1p26I5jBh

Sunday, March 11, 2012

Protected

Author: Cindy M. Hogan
Published By: O'Neill Publishing
Age Recommend: 14+
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA

Review:

"Protected" by Cindy M Hogan was a good followup from Watched.
There was just a much twist and turn that definitely made this novel
hard to put down until I was finished. It was very exciting to see what
this author had in store for this heroine. From being bullied at school
to the action pack of the terrorists...this is an excellent read.

Christy has now returned to Montana, her hometown after a horrible
trip from Washington, DC with her debate team only to be caught up in
more drama after Alex's' shows up....first there is a kidnapping...then with
her being dead to her family and the the story moves on to (Christy)
Michelle's new family in the witness protection program... and then Ari.
Who was Ari? Will Christy (Ari) be able to loss herself and be come this
new person? You will simply have to read this wonderful read to find
out just how this all comes out. It will be worth the read.

I really enjoyed reading "Protected." Is this really how the witness protection
program works? I felt "Protected" was very well written and the characters
were simply off the chart.... simply good and I would definitely recommend
this as a good read.

Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi#ixzz1orvlRwz2

Saturday, March 10, 2012

For the Sake of Amelia-Tormented

By Valerie Bowen
Reviewed By Arlena Dean

I really enjoyed "For the Sake of Amelia-Tormented" By Valerie Bowen. Truly Ms. Bowen loves having excitement, suspense and even humor in her book. This novel was definitely a page-tuner.

The characters were very good in this novel: Amelia, Ray, Tracy, Mark, Kyle and Mr. Ben Sullivan only to name a few.

I found the book a real page turner.. wanting to know just what happened to Amelia? Will Kyle and Amelia ever be together?

Seeing how Amelia gets out of a bad relationship to finally in a good one... you will just have to pick up this read. I believe this is a very good and interesting read that will keep you turning the page until you are finished. Then you will be left wanting more.....

Friday, March 9, 2012

Watched

Author: Cindy M Hogan
Published By: Createspace Publishing
Age Recommend: 16+
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA

Review:
"Watched" by Cindy Hogan is loaded with mystery, with suspense, romance and excitement. I found this novel to be well written and not just for the young adult.Christy Hadden was a fifteen year old with a good character of high morals and values win a scholarship trip to Washington, DC. However, I did not understand Christy's her relationship with her parents...even those she spoke of the rules of not dating until sixteen it was strange to me that on this trip there not no contact with her parents.
The story really takes off with Christy meeting different students and all the twist and turns that she will be caught up in an FBI investigation witnessing a murder.

This novel has a lot of interesting characters: Mary Beth, Summer, Josh, Eugene, Rick,
Kara, Alex, Jeremy, and Nathan... only to name a few...making this a good read. There
will be two guys that will draw in Christy's love interest .... who will she choose? One or
more of these characters makes Christy's life most miserable ... just who is this? But most
of all finding out who is really after Christy ... and what FBI agent comes to her rescue?


So how does this very intelligent young lady, being loved by two guys goes to being of help
to the FBI make it through this story...."Watched" .... you will simply have to read this good
read to find out! You will find that this novel is a page turner and I would recommend it as
good read for anyone who loves a good mystery suspense novel.

Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=childrens&thread=1194#ixzz1ofW47DSe

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Summer's Journey

4 Stars!
 
 
 
 
This was really some journey. "Summer's Journey" by Summer Daniels is very real that most women can relate to. I found this short story a very interesting read.

Misadventures Of Fatwoman

Author: Julie Elizabeth Powell
Published By: J.E.P.
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:



"Misadventures of Fatwoman" by Julie E. Powell was indeed a wonderful read. This novel was so very important to me and I just could not put it down until I was finished with it.
The story was dealing with Andi who was over weight and had been since childhood. Andi has dealt with ridicule all during her life and this has caused her to suffers from low self esteem.

Even though she is in a good marriage Andi feels paranoid due to the fact that her first
husband had wandering eyes. Was there a reason for this? What did she find in Rays'
(husband) coat pocket? What happens when Andi finally finds out about the coat?
Was her husband cheating on her? You will have to pick up this fast paced good read to
find out.

This novel deals with there being much more to a person than is what is on the outside and
with the insecurities of just how most women do feel made this novel really take on like a
real life story.

The relationship with Andis' husband and children are very mixed with how she truly feels and
thinks about herself. The talent show that was put on gave some real confidence that Andi
needed and having a good friend like Sally was a very helpful in motivating Andi.

"Misadventures of Fatwoman" was very emotional and humorous read. We can see that
a large woman has many struggles that they face every single day of there life. Now how
Andi is able to handles this will be .....well you pick up this good read and see for yourself
how it turns out. I definitely would recommend this as a good read.

Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=women&thread=1192#ixzz1oZOjBQkE

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Mrs. Robinson's Disgrace: The Private Diary of a Victorian Lady

Author:  Kate Summerscale
Published By:  Walker & company
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For:  GMTA











Review:

"Mrs. Robertson's Disgrace" by Kate Summerscale was a very interesting read. There
was a lot of Victorian  history that this author used in her story to make it really unique
in more ways than one.  Truly Isabella Robinson was a really interesting person that kept you
wanting to know just what she was going to write in that diary of hers. Kate was a middle
class wife that was very lonely woman and having a husband like Henry Robinson who
was cold  to her only could lead Isalbella to do what she did best and that was to write her
 fantasies. Henry was from the Edinburgh's society and worked  and traveled away from
home.  It was very interested how the author was able to bring in the character Dr. Edward
Lane who Isabella was  infatuated with  for five years  all through her dairy.  What is to be
made of this?  Well, Henry finds this diary with all on its intimates of Kates' sexual  interests
 and petitions for a divorce for reasons of adultery. This trial was very interesting in itself. ...
 for you will just have to read this great novel to see out it turns out.  Be prepared
for a long read and very detailed ...sometimes I got a little lost and had to back up a bit, 
but in the end this novel was a read that proved to be quite interesting due to the fact that
divorce had been illegal in England at this time.  Plus the main fact was that this diary was
read in open court. WoW!

I will not let you know the outcome but it was interesting to find out just how all of this comes
out.  It is really worth the read.  It will keep you turning the page to see what is going out next.

If you are into history setting  back in 1850's  you will love this novel "Mrs. Roberteron's
Disgrace" and would recommend this for a good read.


Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Interrupted: Life Beyond Words

                                  

 INTERRUPTED: LIFE BEYOND WORDS


Author: Rachel Coker
Published by: Zondervan
Age Recommend: 14+
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA





Review:

"Interrupted: Life Beyond Words" by Rachel Coker was such a wonderful read to be written by a sixteen year old. The reading is very easy to understand and this read is for the younger person as well as the adult.. I believe you will really appreciate this read.
There is a definite connection with God in this story that really helps to healing process of Alcyone (Allie) Everly. In this story there was a mixture of romance and history that happens around World War II during the 1940's.


The authors connection with the characters in this story were very real...especially Allie and Sam Carroll. The story starts out with Allie taking care of you Mom.... then there is a death that will take her from a fourteen year old to eighteen... and life really changes
for her causing her to lash out at others and withdrawing from anyone who offered love. Some of the characters that were wonderful in this read would be Charlie (her friend) and Irene (her sister... Beatrices' daughter)


What happens and how Allie matures really comes into play. I will not give anything away .... you will have to read this wonderful read to find out what all happens to Allie. However, from this read you will find answers ...from Tennessee to Maine how does Allies' relationship
with Sam present a change in her life? Why is poetry so important to Allie? And just who does Beatrice replied on to help this young troubled Allie? What was the secret that really was not a secret with Irene that Allie found out? You will find all this out and more from this good read.


"Interrupted: Life Beyond Words" by Rachel Coker was a wonderful and enjoyable good read and I believe you will like it too.

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Angles of the Night

Author: Paula Kennedy
Published By: Champagne Books
Age Recommend: 18
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA












Review:
"Angles of the Night" by Paul Kennedy was a really interesting mysterious world of
Free Masons and Vampires. I believe Ms Kennedy did an excellent job with this storytelling
using her imagination and such creativity to create such a read. I found this read very hard
to put down until I was finished with it. The story was truly very intriguing and at no point
predictable. There are alots of twist and turns....so be ready for a ride.

The story was really put together with well believable characters: Allison(Ally)Webber,
Graeme, Dad (Gordon), Mom, Darren Clark, Cassandra, Scooby, Max Wilson, Frank Wilson,
Darius, Thane, Darcy and this list goes on and in the read you will get to know
the rest of them. But the main characters Allison, Thane and Darcy will keep you deeply
interested in this plot. Truly from Allison first meeting with the two brothers, .... who were
twins, and being quite opposite... and vampires will draw you into this good read.

"Angles of the Night" is full of history, forbidden romance, betrayal and you will find there
are loss of secrets that will be uncovered. I thought "Angels of the Night" was a book that you will not be disappointed especially if you are a Vampire lover. I would recommend this as a
good read.


Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.proboards.com/index.cgi#ixzz1oC60I3Pt

The Fatal Defence: An Ethan Hunter Legal Thriller (Ethan Hunter legal thriller series Book 2) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt: " Amid the mystery of his wife's death, lawyer Ethan Hunter regains his purpose after a courtroom triumph. But fate ...