The Lonely Heart

Author: Jacquelyn Webb
Published by:   Astraea Publishing
Age Recommend: 16+
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"The Lonely Heart" by Jacquelyn Webb was a cute romantic read.  I did find it the story to be very predictable in that the lonely girl gets the guy.  It seems that Melissa and her roommate Sonia were look alike(s)...and it caused Peter Darcy to mistakenly get Melissa  caught up  in family business by having her to pretend to be Sonia due to the fact that her grandmother was dying and some business needed to be taken care of.

How this all when down .... you will simply have to pick up this funny cute romantic "The Lonely Heart" novel to find out .... Will the right guy get the right girl in the end?  How did Peter find out who really  was Melissa.? ..... What happens to Melissa fiance?

The author created some very interesting  characters ... Melissa, Peter, Sonia,  Bob,  Pamela, Grandmother,  Uncle Harold, Aunt Cynthia, Nurse Moffatt,and  Pierre making  this a wonderful well written read.

If you are in for a cute romance  novel then "The Lonely Heart" will be a good read for you.

A Rainy Day Surprise

                                                     Rainy Day Surprise



By: Vallory Vance

This was a quick short read of a erotic setting. It was good and definitely for a Adult read.  I gave it 4 stars out of 5.  Happy Reading!

The Book of Summers

Author:  Emylia Hall
Published By:  Mira: Original Edition
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  4
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:

"The Book of Summers" by Emylia Hall was indeed a wonderful book of Beth/Erszi trying to understand her past....her mothers family history...due to a unexpected parcel  from Hungary.  Now this is a very long descriptive read so be ready  for the long read, however, if you can stay with this  story line you will not be disappointed....going from present to past times over the countries..(Hungary, Devon, London).  This author really makes you feel the places  you are in...especially  in Hungary.

Beth(Erzsi)Lowe is now living in Victoria Park, London and her father comes  to visit  and   gives her a parcel (from her recently deceased mother)... that he had received at his home in Devon and this cause quite a stir  because nothing was to be  received  from Hungary. Now why was that?  However,  Beth  goes and opens the  parcel discovering that it is "The Book of Summers" which was a scrapbook of  seven  past summers she  had spent in Hungary with her mother. Now... Beth is remembering those summers  and what had happen even the last one she had spent there...For this book will slowly  reveal just  what happened  that Beth had forgotten her "7 summers in Hungary" and in the end it all come clear to the reader.  Just how could a Mother let go of her child and put a country first....however, I was able to understand after the read of the outcome.

I really liked the way this author didn't let the cat out of the bag until almost the end of this wonderful story.  If you can hang on you will find out what had caused this rift  between Beth and her father.  By going through this scrapbook will Beth be able to look at her life especially her teenage years differently and even understand why her  family had done what  was done? ...summer spent in Hungary and the secret why the summers stopped  and Beth became estranged from her mother...with many twist and turns... soon  letting us understand just what had happen.  Now this is the part where I will say you must pick up this novel and read to find out just what has gone on.

I really  enjoyed  the characters... Beth(Erzsi), Marika( Mother), David(Dad),  Aunt Jessica,
 Zoltan, Angelika, Balint, Tamas  and Justin ...all  making  this a well written  story.

"The Book of Summers" was a good read and well written..... definitely a novel to make
you think.  I would recommend this book for anyone who wants a good fiction read of dreams of the teenager, problems and choices that we have as adults  with family
relationships....then this read is for you.

GIRLFRIEND TALES: The 'Other' Other Woman Vol 1

Author:  Katrina Parker Williams
Published by:  StepArt Designs
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating :4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

 "Girlfriend Tales: The 'Other' Other Woman" by Katrina Parker Williams was a very interesting fast moving  short story read setting is in the south.  Mistakenly the 'other' other woman is confronted.  Ms. Aubrey has been saved from this confrontation, however, I wished that that low life husband Martin Waiters had been caught and set straight.  Then that would have been some ending! 

This was  very different in that the wife (Mrs.Joy  Waiters) is usually the last to know just what is going on in  this type of affair. But really does this wife  really not  know?  Wow.... Aubrey
 got off too  easy on this one and the poor (ha)  lady... Stella well ... is threaten with a knife..by the wife... OK... after all she (Stella)  had been there too.  I still am lead to wonder...do you
think that Mrs. Waiters knew how to stop this situation with one stone?...the scene with Stella
and the Other woman watching?.....Well, if you are still wondering...pick up "Girlfriend Tales  The 'Other' Other Woman to see what you think.

If you are in for a short story read on how this  wife took care of a situation....I would recommend "Girlfriend Tales to you as a good interesting quick read.

PAVED WITH GOOD INTENTIONS Vol 1

Author:   Erick Burgess
Published By: E. B. Smashwords Edition
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewer:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"Paved With Good Intentions" by Erick Burgess was a group of short stories that really made you think and say....  What If???

There are seven chapters: I am  trying not to give it all away.......

Chapter 1: Trouble.... This is what happens when you are just trying to help!

Chapter 2:  Last Memories..  I know this lady did not have any idea that breaking it off would amount to this... and they both end of?

Chapter 3:  Reunited...I know that this partner did not see this coming.... cuffed and taken away.

Chapter 4:  Sisters Keeper.....well  she took care of this situation and didn't need her detective brothers to help her...and she did a return to Walmart!

Chapter 5:  Best Laid Plans....well in the end this man ended it all but the wives got the plan they wanted in the end. How did that happen?

Chapter 6:  The Devil is in the Details.....Oh my goodness..... the wife is leaving for the movie star...what will he get out of this....help from the secretary and investigator and... to get stabbed in the right places.

Chapter 7:  Can't Catch A Break....Cop ends up in jail after a set up...then gets out and tries to help with stop a assassination of the VP....get shot and all is for nothing!

In the end..."Is this all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time is bad for these
relationships?"  Now to really know what is going on in these short stories you will simply have to pick this good read up and see for yourself how good this  is presented by this author.  I thought he did a good job!

"Paved With Good Intentions" were good short stories that really keep you reading and then wondering...What if?.....and if you are in for a good short story read  with mystery and some drama....this is for you.

BUZZ WORDS BY DOUG LUCAS....

RAVEN'S COVE

Author:  Mary Ann Poll
Published by:  Publications Consultants
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:



"Raven Cove" By Mary Ann Poll was indeed a good supernatural action packed mystery.  We are welcomed to a place called 'Ravons Cove, Alaska where you will find a town  that us full of rich stories of the based on facts....of good vs. evil.. from the church....The Congregational Alliance Church trying  to get rid of the Rev. Lucas....which was the Fundamentalist Church.  Why was this?  Well,  this evilness that has been there for centuries....known as the 'Raven Ravin' was below the 'Corpse Mound,' which was evil and was there to take lives...they needed five to carry out this crest.

The characters were really off the chart... this author did a very good job in presenting these people to us....Kat (Katrina Agnes Tovslosky), Sheriff Bart (Bartholomew Andersen), Reverend Paul Lucas, Josiah Williams, Miggie, Anita Conner,  Wendy, Kenneth Melbourne(FBI agent), Grandma(Alese) Bricken, Josephina Latrell,  Chief Andy Billings, Reverend Martin Plotno, Mrs. Tellamoot, Mr.Smooth, Arnold Thralling, Amos, Arnie, Cassandra Martin, Erwin,Mrs. Ranson  Plotno, Caroline, Cassie,  (Iconoclast), Doc Billings, (Atramentous), Pet, Jonathan & Joseph Tillwater(twins), Mikie Colmbs and I am sure I have left someone out... so you will have to pick up the wonderful read and find out who that is...for you will be able to see how this battle of good and evil plays out....the dark side showing itself as good...even trying to destroy the good. You will see how the visitor(Josiah) was presented and came into this story whose life had been changed. Now, this is the time I will say again... you must pick up "Raven's Cove"  to find out just what is going on.

If you are in for a good action packed mystery with supernatural and mythological over tones..."Raven's Cove" is for you.

Feather

Author: Susan Paige Davis
Published by:  Journeyforth
Age Recommend: 8+
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:


"Feather" by Susan Page Davis was a very good  adventious  fantasy read capturing your attention with the map provided, characters and different tribes.  I enjoyed the way the author featured the two characters...... Feather and Karsh, (her brother) from the Woban Tribe...were  picking berries....and then they stop and start looking for for treasures...and then Feather is kidnapped by a tribe called 'The Blens.' This tribe is very mean and known for their beatings, raids and killings. While being with this tribe Feather survives as a slave providing her  gift of 'fletching'.....which adds feathers to arrows.  While traveling with the Blens  Feather is befriended by Tag and they both make plans to escape.  Also Tag helped Feather by showing her and teaching her the way of the Blens...so she could  survived  ....in their world. However, Feather never gave up with getting back with her Woban Tribe.  Will Feather be able to make it back home to her former tribe(Woban)  and to her brother? Feather "holds onto the promise that there will be a day when the dark and the light are equal, broken things will be mended, and lost things will be found."

By picking up "Feather" you will be able to find out how this author presents her story for the reader. "Feather" is for the young reader...  to explore and see just what happens.  I would recommend "Feather" as a good read  for the younger person.

Facing the Son, A Novel of Africa

Author:  M. L.  Rudolph
Published By:  M L Rudolph
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:

Facing the Son, A Novel of Africa" by M  L Rudoph was really a suspenseful and wonderful  read.  I really enjoyed being able to feel like  I was traveling  in Africa along as I was reading....and what a ride! This was definitely one travelers worst nightmares and one I couldn't put down until I had finished with ...'Facing the Son.'  This was basically
a story of a father seeking redemption...looking for his estranged son to deliver a letter from his dying mother.

The ex wife (Melanie) of Matt Reiser had stage four lung cancer and her one wish was to have their son, Karl, come to her before she dies....and  that meant   Matt would have to travel to The Ivory Coast in  Africa.  Matt Reiser was on a mission in Africa in search for his son...he finds himself in a horrible situation where he is beaten and robbed of everything...down to his passport and even his shoes his was a dropped in a slum....what a horrendous ride....definitely you can see how  things did go wrong in this  third world country...Africa.  Now,  how Matt gets out of this mess is really a mystery and lots of suspenseful settings.   Reiser is found to be running from not only thugs but government officials...in this urban  and rural  Africa.  There are so many twist that come along in the read.  Just  who could be trusted?   You will just have to pick up this wonderful read to find out how this all turns out. 

The author did a wonderful job keeping you on a roller coaster ride until the end. "Facing the Son, A Novel of Africa" was truly a wonderful novel that is well written... with  good plots ...and  a heart stopper ending!  If you are in for some mystery, suspense, drama and adventure then I would recommend "Facing the Son, A Novel of Africa" as a excellent read.

An Affinity for Shadows

Author: Liz R. Newman
Published By:  Gypsy Shadow Company
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"An Affinity for Shadows" by Liz R. Newman  was a good compelling  well written romance read.  This author takes the reader on a journey that will keep in turning the pages until the end.  The plot was very absorbing that turned out to be a very captivating  read.

"An Affinity for Shadows" is of Kate Theodore, who was a very talented broadcast journalist from the New York ... who was smart and on top of  her game, however with all that was going on in her life... would she be able to make it in the TV world of news?   Kate is a very strong character....for she witnessed and reported live at the Twin Towers on 9/11...and it was their that her cameraman(Gibbs) died..witnessing the devastation...then there is a change with her work assignment...bringing her to wonder what is really important in her life....coming up short in love of a good man....and family....then there is Kate's medical condition...  and then there is her best friend Tabitha...who is one that is  really into  herself...very much a party girl....then we have Sal( Marques Sal Oliveri)  and oh what a handsome Italian... Kate meets  and even takes a vacation  to Italy. ...certainly things will bring a change for Kate...and let's not forget that Charlie... Now this is the part where I say you will have to  pick up this read and find out just  what and how  all  of this is going on on in  this good read.

I found "An Affinity for Shadows" was sometimes funny, intriguing, especially between the two friends... Kate and Tabitha.  You will find a world of glamour and lots of riches...with many of the characters and I would recommend "An Affinity for Shadows" as a exceptinal good read.

AFTERWARDS: THE NOVEL

Author:  Rosamund Lupton
Published By:  Crown Publishing Group 
Age Recommend:  Adult (Language)
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Afterwards: The Novel " by Rosamund Lupton was a wonderful thriller, suspense mystery read.  This novel was definitely one that was a page turner till the end. There are  so many twist and turns with surprises.... you will really have to keep up  with this fast pace novel which is good since this is a VERY  long read.

This novel  was written in a  second person point of view...after understanding that.... I was  able to understand  the story line much better.  Believe me be ready for lies, secrets and lots of half truths that is all around this plot of the investigation. In "Afterwards"  you will find this was a novel of a mothers' love for her children and husband.

 In this England community... Gracie Covey while at a Sport Day celebration for the
 children...she discovers the school is on fire...seeing that her son Adam is safe
she then see that her daughter Jenny is not .... so he enters the school and is trapped
on the third floor.... and   then next Gracie awakes in a hospital...unable to move or talk..
trapped in her own body...but she knows she is alive .... along with her Jenny....which now
 the novel appears to be somewhat paranormal....in that she and her daughter can only
communicate....but  both Jenny and  Gracies' mind is alive and able to move about the hospital and other places(outside their body)..... but they are unable to communicate with anyone else.  It is very interesting at this point on seeing  how this author was able to relay...what has happen to them, on to eavesdropping on the family...friends and even the hospital staff.....then to  the story moving on to discover that this fire  at the school was from arson.... and fear comes that this arsonist is the same person  who had been harassing her Jenny earlier.  The two...Jenny and Grace start to seen  what was going on... however, this was not possible for the other members of the family.....Jenny could not be protected by Grace....now I will not say more about that.... you will have to pick up this  wonderful novel and find out how this all comes out.   Be ready for a well written read.

I felt that all the characters were off the chart... Very Good and very captivating...
....Detective Sergeant Sarah MacBride....the sister in law to Gracie  was  definitely my
 heroine as well as one of my favorite characters. This author was really able to make a very believable story on a mothers determination to keep her children safe....even though her
body is incapacitated......"There is no happy ending but there is 'Afterwards."

"Afterwards:The Novel" is a very absorbing book that I simply enjoyed and I was
very surprised in the guilty person(s) that will leave you speechless.  WoW!
I found this book to be very intriguing  and a good  novel and if you are in for a good thrilling, suspenseful mystery... then "Afterwards: The Novel" is a good read for you.

NIGHT SKY

Author:  Jolene Perry
Published by:  Tribute Books
Age Recommend:  16+ (Language)
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Night Sky" by Jolene Perry was indeed a good  contemporary fiction read.  This was
definitely a novel that I could put down until the end. The novel is told in Jamesons' view(from a male point of view) showing his feelings, thoughts of each of the characters
 perception.
This novel's  characters were fantastic....Jameson (Jay) a senior in HS, Sarah and Sky....
dealing with  real emotions, deep feelings and even real relationships.... sometimes  crazy but real and even hear  breaking up  times..... just watching Jay fall in love was  so beautiful. What happens when you are in love with your best friend and they start  dating someone  else.  Now,  this is what happens to Jay and the story begins....he meets  Sky... who is a Native American from Alaska.... lives with her  grandparents....across  the street in the same neighborhood. Sky was definitely a very intriguing person....  and  omg!...what  secrets  she had!  You will just have to pick up this realistic  good read and  see what it is all about. 

Jay's best friend for three years...Sarah was now  dating Eric.... now Jay meets  Sky...Is  he now falling for her?  What is going on with Sky.... Is she being totally truthful? To add to this storyline....  What  is going on with his mom and dad?....splitting up after twenty years...(his Dad had a affair).   Sarah new boyfriend  don't  want them to be friends.....What will happen next?    As you read you will see  how this will unfold  around Jay. Sarah had left Jay.... then  Jay's father ... later who will  be the one leaving next and and what else is now
going on in "Night Sky"?  Again you will have to pick up this good read to find out. 

  "Night Sky" was well written that made this novel seem so  very real... especially since Sky's  name meant...... "Night Sky"...... a story about a teenage love that will be explored  different relationship... a  friend,  his  parents  and his  lover. Most important was the message of understanding and being able in the end to forgive and get on with his life.

If you are in for a  amazing   novel of  sweet young  love.    I would recommend "Night Sky" to you as a good read.  The book cover is simply beautiful. Please Note:   There is some language used that may not  be  appropriate  for YA.

WEEKEND AGREEMENT

Author: Barbara Wallace
Published by:  Entangled Publishing
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Weekend Agreement" was a  fabulous romantic well written  read even though the plot seemed to be predictable... but still I like the novel.

The story was of  Charlotte Doherty who was a historian professor... finds out that her dear brother...Michael has sold the family farm....and she knew nothing of this....so now Charlotte  wants to get the farm property back...being a part of her legacy and felt that keeping the farm she would have a part of her mother with her. So, Charlotte  really has no choice but to accept the billionaire Daniel Moretti's offer. Why did she except this plan.... especially from a man that didn't trust anyone....above all a beautiful woman? It seems like Daniel  was lonely and  had been bitten once to often by a leeches (women) who  were  only attracted to his wealth and his good looks.  How was Charlotte  going to be  able to go into this situation and get what she needed.... (and that was her family farm back)... and to get involved with Mr. Moretti's agenda...whatever it was. However,  after  meeting his mother and brother( with definitely family problems) you could  identify why Daniel  was such a uncaring person who  was seemed to be very  demanding,   controlling, and arrogance.... So the deal is set and for Charlotte to get her land back back so must  accompany Daniel to this family's 25th anniversary party.  Now this is the time I will say.... you will have to pick up "Weekend Agreement" an find out just how this play out.  Be ready for many twist and turns until the end.

Will  these very different people  fall for each other?   Will there be feelings for each other... during this weekend?... This is definitely a good read to see this will  lead to a off the chart love interest. 

The characters in this novel were very interesting... there was  Charlotte, Daniel, Valerie
Pinochet, Vivian, Cole, (Aunt Esther) and  Judy.  The author did a wonderful job with each role the characters played.  The author also  did a wonderful job at bringing out emotions
from each of these characters.

"Weekend Agreement" was a very light and easy  romance that was  very enjoyable and I would recommend as a  good read.

HOLIDAY AFFAIR

Author:  Annie Seaton
Published By:  Entangled Publishing, LLC
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  4
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:

"Holiday Affair" by Annie Seaton was a very enjoyable romance read.  There are a lot of twist and turns and fast-paced  that I couldn't put this novel down until the  end.

The characters were very real... some I liked and some well...I will let you read andjudge.  The heroine... Lissy  McIntyre ...bless her heart...had just loss your gramps and she is hurting.... so she takes a holiday of sorts...and meets this beautiful looking, but all into himself...Nick Richards.... and this story picks up from there....rocky and stormy...chemistry...yes!  Now,  will these two be able to get all their emotions  and commitment issues  together?...Now this is the time I will say you must pick up the good novel of "Holiday Affair" and see how this story turn out.  After a tragedy comes... will Lissy and Nick be able to make  decisions that will determine their  future?...Will there be a 'Happy Ever After?'

I thought the story line was very well written,  full of emotions, sweet and sexy read.
I even liked the cover of this novel...WoW!

If you are in for a good romantic read....pick up "Holiday Affair and be ready for a
good read.  I would definitely recommend "Holiday Affair."

FORGOTTEN BY Doug Lycas, Free Days on Amazon

FORGOTTEN BY Doug Lycas

Date: May 15, 2012 01:00AM
Venue: Amazon.com
Location: The United States
Description:
Free for (2) days on Amazon.com, come get your copy of "Forgotten" by Doug Lucas, published by Great Minds Think Aloud Independent Publishing!

Blackmailed by the Italian Billionaire

Author:  Nina Croft
Published by:  Entangled Publishing
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:


 "Blackmailed by the Italian Billionaire" by Nina Croft was a very good spicy romance novel.This novel was was definitely one that was hard to put down until I was finished with it...very addicting  read.   I felt this was a well written novel.

The authors characters were really interesting as well as believable .... Luc (hero)was something to behold...sexy, hot, sweet... lovable eyes with a scar on his face.. and still beautiful all rolled up in one... however, their were dark secrets.. a grudge  that he had been holding on to for over ten years...he  had a strange friend who owned a strip-club...and then their was the heroine... Olivia  who was very naive in many ways.... but lovable...was looking for her father...Jimmy Brent...(Was this the same person that Luc was holding a grudge for?)... moving on...who didn't treat her or her mom very well and left them not knowing he had a son.... Now Olivia(Lia) is wanting to find her father ...she is about to lose everything she has...and she goes to a former friend of her mom's....who  owned a strip-club... And this is how it all is coming together... Were both of these two people looking for the same person and equally hated him??   Now how this all comes together you will  just have to pick up this read.... and you will find out just how this 'blackmail' occurred  in "Blackmailed by the Italian Billionaire." 

"Blackmailed by the Italian Billionaire"  was located from the countryside of  London, England.  The plot thickens in the wonderful story of love and romance....adding in some mystery with Mr. Brents' past. It was simply wonderful how the author wrote the loves scenes that were very  passionate, romantic and yes Hot!

If you are a romantic and love hot spicy romance and even so laughter... then this novel "Blackmailed by the Italian Billionaire" is a good read.  This is definitely a Adult Read.

Paper Images

Paper  Images
Author:  Tracy James  Jones
Published by: R. J. J. 
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Paper Images" by Tracy  J. Jones was a very interesting read.  Truly Ms. Jones  did a good job in bringing out the characters making them so real that kept your attention from the beginning till the end of the short story.  "Paper Images" will definitely keep you wondering just what is really gone on..that made this friendship between Jarian and Andy so special.   What was up with Bobby?....jealousy? I really appreciated how this author was able to bring it all together where you could take it or leave it... Your choosing.

"Paper Images" is of Jarian Martin' life and how he bought out the good even after a horrible situation he had to go through in his live.... and his reason for reaching out to others that were in pain was possibly really  healing himself.  You will find the answers to many  questions  toward the end of the short story.

 I will say you will not be disappointed in this  well written read and I would recommend this as  a good read.

Unprotected: A True Story of Betrayal

Author: Reena  Jacobs
Published by:  Ciquette
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Unprotected: a True Story of Betrayal" by Reena Jacobs was a very interesting read.  I knew I did not like flying...  and  after reading this I definitely would not like to be patted down. .... what a pat down.... even an enhanced pat down...Wow! This TSA experience was really really really something! I am sorry that things like  this has and is going on even today.  This is so sad that this even has to been done.

The author did a wonderful job at relating to us how a person is treated in these pat down.  I am sure this lady and her daughter( Alex who is 13)) did not wake up  that morning knowing (sending her daughter to visit her grandfather) that they  would have to go through something like that at the airport.

The author even relayed what the strange 'skinnny' ask...."DID YOU ENJOY THAT?' ..."you Consented by purchasing your ticket"... and then asked "Would you like to rate your experience? ... Give your evaluation." What!  Why did this happen.... she was "next in line when it (scan)became available." ...whenever a space opens for the scanner we fill it."  Is this how we are scanned?  Violation number one....Violation number two. Groping...or pat down! Wow... wanting  feedback... Are those machines really making a difference? after all.... 'the machines help prevent terrorist attacks.' Really? And what a thought.... Would her father have to go through this pat down and get groped...when he returns the granddaughter?......I guess he would be if he is in line to be patted down! Now if you go through the metal detector...you don't have to worry about this! WoW!

Now this really makes you wonder... about this whole deal...are the salespeople etc.
treated this way... with security and the scanners?...Asking her daughter(Alex)... did  you like that? ...did you enjoy that?!  What! Groping... does that prevent terrorism?  Not every one is scanned!  What can be done about this.....nothing you can do about it.... nothing you can do  about it. The government is in charge... and nothing you can do about it.....OK...
Will filling a sexual assault report do anything?..... was there really a answer for this? Investigated... dropped charges...Why was this?....Ok...pick up "Unprotected" and see
what this is all about. What could be done so this will not happen to others.. "for this is
a American problem... a problem for the citizens." Will there be a choice of x-ray machines, enhanced pat downs or what is next for us?

I found this novel: "Unprotected: A True Story of Betrayal" a good read that I would definitely recommend.  I believe this does happen!

Covenant Child: A Story of Promises Kept

Author: Terry Blackstock
Published by:  Thomas Nelson Publishers
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Covenant Child" by Terri Blackstock was truly a well written story Christian fiction  making this an  exceptional good read.  This author is truly one that can bring it hometo all of us.... for she knows who to keep the reader spellbound until the end. This novel was definitely one I was not able to put down until I had finished it.

From the twins losing their mom....then their dad...his parents and even Amanda(step-
mother)  for a time...living with those evil grandparents(who loved off the twins money)...
for these 'billionaire babies' were now  living in poverty...definitely a family ripped apart
by death and greed....until the twins turned 18... now they could choose between the two lifestyles...which truth would Lizzy and Kara choose? ...lies...of what they had been told by those greedy grandparents or the truth from Amanda...which would be a new life for both of the twins.

Amanda was my favorite character in this novel.... for she was a stepmother that cared
deeply for the twins and loved God.  Thank God for the friends she had (Joan and Matt) that helped her and helped  Amanda to  know that God would see her through all of this...just leave it in His hands. Amanda had promised her husband(Jack) that she would take care of his twin girls...should something happen....when it did and it looked like this would not be done.... I will only say their is no limit to a mother's love.. how far she will go....Well, I am going to stop here and just let you read about this in this wonderful read of "Covenant Child." The big question is Will the twins except the truth that will change their lives or not?

The author did a great job with us understanding ...Amanda, Kara, Lizzy, greedy grandparents (maternal) and the boy to men relationships.  The details were well noted and the interactions were very vivid in this wonderful novel.

Amazing novel  and a very  moving story is all I can truly say about "Covenant Child." This was definitely a wonderful photo of God's love for us. If you are in for a excellent read...this novel is for you.

BLACK MOUTAIN AFFAIR

Author:  Drew Lindsay
Published by:  D. L., via Smashwords
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Black Mountain Affair" by Drew Lindsay was a very exciting suspense mystery  read.  I found it hard to put down until I had finished with this novel.  This was definitely a page turner for me.    There were so many twist and turns... you really have to keep up or you could get lost.  The author did a wonderful job at keeping the reader interested even though he may have repeated a little  more than necessary in this long read.....but in the end if you could hold on and stay with it till the end....... it turns out to be a very good read. The Ausee Lingo was somewhat different in reading but I soon caught on.

"Black Mountain Affair" is of a serial killer.. in  Cooktown, Australia and Far North Queensland...killing (Aboriginals)  and (others) hiding the remains in the Black Mountain.
There were lots of  detectives involved and even a ex detective...Ben Hood... who really shined in this story.  Now you will just have to read "Black Mountain Affair" and find out why the  young ladies liked Mr. Hood. Also in your read you will find out who Merinda Jerome(North Australian Socialite)  was and why she was a important  person in this plot. 

Get ready for graveyards to be robbed, police and a doctor... well I will stop  and not tell you anymore about that ... you must pick up the read and find about this intriguing novel for yourself.   Just who was this person... was he black or white  and why was he able to stay ahead of the Police and what souvenir did the killer take from his victims?

The character's were all very interesting people and their were many...Bobby Gumtree,
John & Margaret Quinn, Janice, Beth  & Jordan Price, Peter Martin, Binda Specer, Dr. Ruth Cruise, Walter Lund, Mark Leslie, Oola & Koorine Burton, Maurice & Jolanta Keller, Detective Sutcliffe, Merinda, Jerome, Tony Myer, Graham Lupton, Yana Gibson, Ben Hood, Wayne Armstrong, Jiba, Rodney Reids, Les Watson, Dr Vall Dunn, David Porter and I will stop because there are some more for you to read about in this good read.

If you are in for a good detective read... you have come to the right place..."Black Mountain Affair"  will be one that you will not soon forget.  I found it to be a good mystery novel that I would recommend as a good read.

Swim The River

Author:  Stephy Smith
Published By: Astraea Press
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  4
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud

Review:

"Swim the River" by Stephy Smith was a good read.  I enjoyed how this author was able to mix a story with whites'  and Indians.... showing how the hatred of some whites toward the Indians were horrible.  I didn't think I was going to like this novel however,  after completely
finishing it .... I found this a good read.

"Swim the River" told  the story of a woman (Bright Eyes)being rescued from the river... due to the hatred of the white man(Harvey Morgan)....she survived...due to the help of Silver Hawk....after a marriage to Rising Wolf... (Amelia) Falcon Woman saves her husband...by swimming the river... after he was.... well I really don't want to tell you this... You will have to just pick up this read..."Swim the River" to find out what happened to the bear.

This novel was of survival of the  Cheyenne Indians that were not treated well on the
reservations.  Several families were able to move out of the Pine Ridge Reservation  area to Colorado  with(Falcon Womans') family to now be able to live their lifes to the fullest...Rising Wolf would now be able to hunt buffalo.... being able to teach the boys  and (Snow Bird)  the girls their ways of their ancestors ... now being proud to carry on the Cheyenne tradition... most important teaching them love..."if they picked their battles wisely, this could help educate the ones left on the reservation."

The novel really brought out the meanness and hatred of people  ....if they(Indian) hunted for  food...they were shot....if they owned weapons...they were imprisoned or killed..  they
were given rotten meat to eat.....Wow!

The author  characters were really something in this novel  and I loved their Indian names.... Falcon Woman, Rising Wolf, Silver Hawk, Bright Eyes, Woman with Small Voice, Red
Eagle and  Snow Bird.  Now you will have to read this good novel to see what  were
their American names.

"Swim the River" was a  very interesting Indian novel  and if you are in for a good read this one is  for you.

Arlena'sBookReviews: "CRYSTAL DREAMS" BY KATHERINE SCHNEIDER

Arlena'sBookReviews: "CRYSTAL DREAMS" BY KATHERINE SCHNEIDER: Great Minds Think Aloud, has another book coming out on May 12th by Kathy Schneider! The book is called "Crystal Dreams" and a bri...

"CRYSTAL DREAMS"

Author:  Katherine Schneider
Published By:  Great Minds Think Aloud
Age Recommend: YA
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud

Review:

"Crystal Dreams" by Katherine Schneider was a very sweet YA fantasy read. 
I really enjoyed this read.  I think the author Ms. Schneider did a wonderful job with
 this well written novel.

The story dealt with a girl named Kat that felt like the odd girl out...even her parents
didn't seem to have any time for her.... their jobs came first....at school...she had no
friends....what she had going for her was a funky socks and above all her dreams...
these wonderful blue crystals...but then.......it's just a dream.

With Kat not being able to go to school one morning because her parents were too
tired to get up and take her.... she leaves for the woods behind her home  even though
she knew this was wrong to do.... but Kat finds the crystal...blue!

Now as this dream... goes on...Kat enters the forest portal and immediately goes
into an beautiful world where she now belonged.... having the 'Blue Crystal World'
and all the illusion power  Kat would need forever!  You must pick up the neat YA
read.

I loved all of the characters... Kat, Orlando, Amanda, Kelly Jo, Sam, Brian, Ethan,
Ezno, Cricket, Krisca, Melissa, Shaye and Mr. Punido.

"Crystal Dreams" was a very good read especially if you are into the fantasy world
opening up to Crystal Dreams and if they come true... then....o well.. pick up this
novel  and I would recommend this to any YA as a good read.

Bare-Naked Lola

Author:  Melissa Bourbon Ramirez
Published by:  Entangled Publishing
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: Great Minds Think Aloud

Review:

"Bare-Naked Lola by Melissa Bourbon Ramirez was indeed a intriguing mystery read.  This was book three... (The Lola Cruz Mysteries) and my first of the series. I did enjoy this mystery and thought it was well written ....positively a page turner. I was very much entertained with all of the twist and turns of this read.  Believe me it was a hilarious read.

From the Camacho and Associates.. a local PI Agency...there was Deloris (Lola) Cruz....This very sassy,  smart, investigator was going 'undercover in the Sacramento's professional basketball team' as a court side dancer....... looking for a murder suspect......... but how did she end up in a 'nudist resort?'  Now..just  how did  that happen? The main thing was that Lola wanted to keep this from her family and boyfriend...Jack who had a ex girlfriend that had 'fatal attractions tendencies. Oh, less not forget Lola  other job at the restaurant that her parents owned... being a waitress at Abuelitas.'... Lolas' night  job..... and what about her family...a very interesting read.

Be ready to find plenty of suspense, mystery, romance, lots of laughter and even some
danger in this good read.    Now I don't want to leave out Jack....he was the HOT journalist who had known Lola since HS...Would Lola and Jack  finally get together?  What about Sarah (the ex)?....How would this case come out?  You will  simply have  to pick up this good read because it gets real interesting!

The characters were really off the chart...Lola, Jack...Manny, Detective Bennett, Chely,
Victoria, Lance, Zac,  Selma, Rochelle, Jennifer, Steve, Larry, Deirdre, Tiffany, Seavers,  Carrie,Vanessa,  Cassie, Reilly, Neill, Craig, Brooke, Sarah, Gracie, Lucy  and the list goes on....giving   you a  well  written novel that  has plenty of mysteries solved  that will come out. I do not want to tell you about it  .... you will just have to pick up this read and find out and I am sure you will be surprised... I was.... who would have thought it was..... and .........!

If you are in for a good mystery..."Bare-Naked Lola" will be for you and  yes I would
definitely recommend this novel for a good mystery read. 

STORM'S FURY

Author: Nya Rayne
Published by:  Musa Publishing
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA


Review:

"Storm's Fury" by Nya Rayne was a good paranormal romance read.   I had a little  trouble  keeping up with the story line in the beginning but after a few chapters I was able to understand it a little better.  This was definitely a dark fantasy romance.  The author used a lot of imagination with this romantic novel... an Anubi..dealing with the god of darkness
and death.

The heroine Stormy(Ambrosia) was definitely one that wanted it her way presenting
 a very strong character having a very strong will and just a very tight attitude..with backbone.... however  will  this does change some after she starts to trust Fury?(the hero)....... who  wanted Stormy to 'trust him.'  This romantic play between these two people was an  interesting read.  Will  Stormy ever give up and stop trying to run from Fury?  What about the revenge  that boiled at Fury?  How will all of this come out?...  Was Stormy  ....Fury's  chosen mate?  You simply  must get  'Storm's Fury' to find out!

It was very interesting seeing the interaction that Fury and Storm had  between each other....Stormy thought that Fury would die (visions)....then there was the fight with  Fury and Terroar...stopped by Crul...the Anubi is explained by Tempest to Stormy...that she (Stormy) was 'Fury's weakness.' Now all of this sounds a little crazy to Stormy. ..looking for the 'ankh' symbol.  Will she find this symbol? If Stormy didn't run would Fury be alright?  Fury knew he had a job ahead of him because he knew that he had to try....the truth.... he couldn't walk away.  Again... you will understand all of this through  the reading of the good novel. 

The characters were simply interesting and sometimes even  funny.....  Stormy(Ambrosia),
 Fury, Crul, Tempest,  Hatrid,  Mitch, Alan, and Terroar.

"Storm's Fury" was indeed a interesting and well written   read.  If you like paranormal fantasy romance... this novel will be a good read for you. This definitely a Adult Read.

The Story of Sassy Sweetwater

Author: Vera Jane Cook
Published by:  Musa Publishing
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA

Review:
"The Story of Sassy Sweetwater"   by Vera Jane Cook was a excellent read.  This story was one that was one I couldn't put down until I had finished it....so I read all nite long ... (smile).

Sassy (meaning....attitude and  Sweetwater..a stream.... was a very strong,  desirous,and daring  person. How this author was able to present such a well written novel was simply amazing....dealing with a young Sassy trying to understand the grown ups in her life....mainly her mother...going from one relationship to another...then returning home... to  Carter's Crossing, South Carolina.....where Sassy remained there until the end... then it was France. 

The story shows Sassy trying to understand these people around her...her mom(Violet)
 and the dignified relatives that were now in her life.  Going from adolescence to adult we
are able to see the paths that were taken .... many times being sad to happiness back
 to sad again....but what Sassy Sweetwater wanted more than life was to just be 'Happy.'
Was that possible for her? What about her paintings?  There were so many things that were hidden  and not talked about... to find out just what they were you will have to pick up this great read to find out what all was involved   with  secrets...involving  Sassys'  mom and  grandfather..... you will also  finds other secrets too!

Ms. Cook worked her magic in bringing out Sassy emotions to the audience.  The writing was very well written and each of the characters were brought  to life in this great read....Dudley, Earline, Patrick, Thomas Tierney,  Kyle, Aunt Peg, Charlotte,  grandma Edna, Aunt El (Elvira), Connie,  Guy Grissom, Uncle Seth, Aaron, Richard Sweetwater, Earline, Uncle Austin, Erin, Carolyn (maid), Franklin, Pike, James Leroy, Liam, Seamus McLaughlin, Jeremy, Clint, Marjean, Betsy Lou, Wm.( Dixie) Craft.......let's not forget the dogs,  June-bug, Foxy, and Abelle...and I am sure I left some out... that I know you will find in the great read. These characters really made this a well understood  novel. 

"The Story of Sassy Sweetwater" is on a real journey that while you are on it you will
find out just what Sassy needed most in her life. Will Sassy be able to get this in the end?
I found this novel a excellent novel and I would recommend this as a good read for the Adult audience.

She Walks The Shore

Author:  Lisa Green
Published By: Musa Publishing
Age Recommend:  14
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  4
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:

"She Walks the Shore" by Lisa Greer was a short story fiction read.  I read this novel and those wow that was a quick read.

This novel "She Walks The Shore"   was of a lady named Marisol Huff (Mari) who hasjust met her grandfather...she never got to know him...due  to this estrangement in
the family.  Mari's grandfather comes to visit, invites her to come to Canada(where his home is located....100 Mile House) for a visit and tells her he is ill... dieing of pancreatic cancer  and doesn't have  long to live.

Mari gladly leaves for Canada .... leaving behind a stalker ex boyfriend (Paul)....arriving
 at her new   place...what all will she encounter?  Will it be ghostly figures of a woman? What part will Tom Fraser... a friend of her grandfathers'...the 'hunky Mountie' and  her neighbor Sylvan Hill play in her move to her grandfathers' place?  You will simply have to read this novel and find out what all of this is about.

The characters were very interesting Luke Short, Paul, Frank, Horace Walker, Ricky, Tom, Maleficent(cat), Nina Runningwolf and Sylvan.  I am not sure if I got them all but this group of people really made this novel very intriguing.

All I can say is if you would want to read a short gothic  fiction and find out all that Ms.  Green has in store for you  in "She Walks The Shore"  I would recommend you pick up this good read.

LOST IN THE BAYOU

Author:  Cornell Deville
Published By:  Musa Publishing
Age Recommend: 14+
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:

"Lost In The Bayou" by Cornell Deville was indeed a good  YA thriller.  I thought
the story was very well written with lots of fast paste action. "Lost in the Bayou"
was definitely a page turner in that I could not put it down until I was finished with
it.... with each chapter leaving you wondering just what was happening next.
This author did a wonderful job with this YA action thriller. 

 I found Robin simply amazing... along with her dear brother....Andy.  In the novel their parents had disappeared and along come this horrible person who is their fathers brother....Uncle Conrad with his metal prosthesis...... is now taking charge of them.  This uncle Conrad  was indeed a mean and very dangerous   person and I can only  say God help these poor children....for this  uncle even scared me! Was he really as crazy as he seemed to be? Just how will this  all work out? .... You must pick up this good read to find out what and how this will  turn out.

The characters really come out in making this a good read ......the author was able
to make you really be drawn into this storyline.  The children having been from a very
loving family...close to the servants and now ....then  this scary uncle who said things like:
"I'm going to kill you until you kill me first." What?

The ending of this novel will be very dramatic... with so many twist and turns so get ready.  If you are in for a good thriller in the bayou, crazy uncle, monsters, zombies, blueberries,
'The Lone Ranger,'  alligators, insects, bugs, and much more.... you will be in for a read that you will not forget.  I would recommend not only for the young but the adult will enjoy this good read too.

A Cowboy and A Gentleman

A Cowboy and A Gentleman
Author:  Helen Hardt
Published by:  Musa Publishing
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"A Cowboy and A Gentleman" by Helen Hardt was a real delightful romance cowboy read.  This novel was one of those that once you started reading I could not put it down until I was finished with it.  I felt that this novel was well written and even funny at times. 

"A Cowboy and A Gentleman" was of the 'McCray Brothers and indeed I love reading about Dallas, Zack  and Chad.  This novel deals with Dallas McCray.. now newly divorced  from Chelsea  meets up another divorce lady..... Annalisa (Annie) DeSimone. ..who just  happens to be the new veterinarian in town.  After they meet and attraction  forms quickly and it looks like these two will become one.... soon.... however, Dallas  had been burnt once with a awful marriage and he was determined not to go down  that road again.  Through a conversation  with Annie, Dallas was left to think that she was similar to his ex(having secrets)  and he was not having any of that in his life.

Annie hadn't had a wonderful marriage and now that her ex husband was out of jail.Her ex husband(Riggs)  had put her through a lot...physical and sexual abuse. Now would this be a problem for her?....she had moved from New Jersey to Bakersville, Colorado...wanting to make a clean brake ....making fast friends with Dusty...Dallas  sister in law, Joe(mechanic),  the deputy(Doug),  and the McCray brothers.....however,  Annie had secrets of her own.......Would she be willing to share these with Dallas? The characters were really off the chart ... Great.  I loved all of them and you will just have to pick up the good read and find out what happens.

 There will be many twist and turns .... so get ready  to  find it  a easy and fast read....definitely a passionate romantic novel and I would recommend "A Cowboy and A Gentleman" as a good read.  Please note:  THIS IS A ADULT BOOK!
            

Ivy League Cowboy

Author: Helen Hardt
Published by:  Musa Publishing
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Ivy League Cowboy" by Helen Hardt was a good romance cowboy novel.  This novel kept you reading till the end because you wanted to know what was coming next. This was a well written novel.
 
The story was of a woman (Dusty O'Donovan)...a  'Barrel Racer' ...and   who was called a 'bull-whisperer' that had come to this rodeo wanting to ride the bull (Diablo) because she and her brother (Sam)  needed  to make money ...$500,000.00... sounded good from this  bull ride...due to the financial  situation of their family ranch was in ...this  would really help solve their problems.   However, Zach McCray the owner of this Bull...'Diablo'... doesn't want Dusty to ride Diablo ....he would much rather date and make love to  Dusty..... having been childhood friends... but it had been 17 years since they had seen each other and what Zach saw was definitely something difference than the little girl he once knew from Montana.

The author presented these two main  people (Dusty & Zack).  You could see from the read that
 these two people were made  for each other.  However, there was a dark secret that  Dusty had  and until she was able to share this information....or as the story goes...secrets do get out... would Dusty be able to get  back with  Zack.. in a love that seemed to be in all the wild passionate sex  when they were together. How would  Zach be  able to get  Dusty see that he really loved  his 'darlin' and get her to tell him what was  the problem?    I really liked  the way the author brought that word ...'darlin' in  the storyline. Wow!

The story has some drama with some of the characters..... an ex fiance(Angelina)  that didn't seem to  understand the word  NO...... and her friend Chelsea... well you will just  have to read about her yourself in the good novel.   I really enjoyed the  brothers...  Chad and  Dallas  ...then there was Laurie McCray( Zack, Dallas and Chad's  mom) who was a breathe of fresh air in this story.  When reading "Ivy League Cowboy" you will get a  very easy read and enjoyable read.
 
I was immediately hooked by the intriguing "Ivy League Cowboy" just after reading just a few pages.  I am sure if you enjoy a western cowboy romance... then you will  enjoy and  I would recommend this as a good read.  NOW this is a adult book for adults only!