Circle of Silence

Author:  Carol M Tanzman
Published By: Hanlequin Teen
Age Recommended:  YA
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4

Review:

"Circle of Silence" by Carol M. Tanzman was a second installment of the WiHi series and I thought this was a  very intriguing read that I couldn't put down until
the end.   This was indeed interesting  mystery that was thrilling to see  how this author was able to tell this story  from a 'news team view point and the point of the MP' keeping this going on throughout this novel. This is definitely a novel that will keep the reader captivated and hanging on every word as the tension grows as the story progresses.   There will be even  a little romance thrown in.

The story is of a senior Valerie Gaines who wants her senior year to really count
and she is the producer of "Campus News". Valerie wants badly to win the school's Emmy Award to help  get into the top university of journalism of her choice. But will this happen?   Problems arise when Valerie's ex boy-friend, Jagger has join the news class and is on her team...then there has been "pranksters whose pranks seem to be getting more and more dangerous that uses the initials MP." The MP's were a "group of teenage outcasts tired of being ignored and humiliated every day decide to take revenge on people around them."   For the pledge these member make to their group to keep silent really will be something. Who knew that Valerie not only had to find out who is behind all of this, but also will getting this story be worth risking her own life? "The question is, can she prevent  this tragedy before it strikes and can Valarie and her team find out the identity of MP before it's too late."

The characters were all a interesting group from Valerie, Marci, Raul, Jagger,
Omar, Mr.Carleton, Scott Jenkins, Bethany, Jesse, James, Phil, Henry, Mrs. G,
Lawrence, Tracy Garner, Teneisha, Emily Purdue, Liam Dolan to Arnold Clemson and a few others... really made this some story.

Towards the end of the book, you find out one of the members of MP is someone very close to Valerie, but Valerie easily forgave her. Wow! This was really something and I had better stop here and say you must pick up "circle of Silence" to find out how this all comes out!  I wasn't  totally surprise  or shocked at who it was.

This novel was a enjoyable  mystery read that I would recommend  that it would
keep you were entertained from the beginning till the end. 

Deadly Secrets, Loving Lies

Author:  Cynthia Cooke
Published By: Entangled Publishing
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Deadly Secrets, Loving Lies" by Cynthia Cooke was a very good romantic suspense read that I thoroughly enjoyed so much that I couldn't put it down until I had finished it.   You will find yourself guessing until the very end which you
will be left with a cliffhanger. Be ready for non stop action read!  This author was able to keep me on the edge of my seat  all the way through this well written novel. 

This author's heroine.... Genie's(formerly CTA) past has finally caught up with her and the lies surround her as she attempts to get the truth of really what happened in the death of her dear mother. Genie is very tough and has two
sister...all three are triplets...(that has been hidden )..one sister(Becca)
could be dead or a traitor to the country and the other sister (Cat)is in hiding with family that knows nothing of her history. Genie is now being sought by someone who is out to get her and her sisters. Now, their Dad(who was the ex-directory of the  most secretive agency in the U.S.Government).....is now missing.  Will the CTA come to  their rescue? Who will Genie put her trust in?  What a mess!

The hero was Kyle who was a ex boyfriend of Genie's...who worked for the CTA and now enters... in his chopper with Johnny.  What a team that swoops down and brings Genie in for questioning and what a rescue from this 'goon squad' from Genie's 'secret' residence.

All of the characters from Genie, Kyle, Johnny, Cat, Becca, Emerich, Marsters,
Amelia, Garrison, to Cameron and I am sure I have left someone out but this group really all a very  interesting making this an emotional,  passionate, heart stopping good read.

This novel will be full of plots and skims that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I do not want to tell you too much more because I want you to pick up "Deadly Secrets,Loving Lies" to find out just what this secret that the triplets had, why their father keep them separated and even more will come out of this excellent read.

Be ready for a read where there will be love, betrayal, guns, explosions, secret
powers, black SUV's lust,  boat blowing up,  death, vendettas, grief, revenge, finger pointing  and some moments that will leave you saying WOW!... I didn't see that coming!

"Deadly Secrets, Loving Lies" will only leave you wanting more in this action paced novel  and I would recommend this novel as a excellent read if you are in for suspenseful and romantic read.

Desert Harvest

Author:  Wando Wande
Published By:  W.W.
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Desert Harvest" by Wando Wande was a quick short interesting read. It is about  the Coldfield family living in the Arizona desert.  The wife leaves the family and the older daughter who is a teenager must step up and take care of the two younger ones. With constant reminders that the mother is a whore..what will come of this horrible family life for the girl named Millie? It seems like everyone is against her mom...even her sister..Liza  referring to her as a whore.  Millie wants her mother to come back home....but is this possible? Millie father teaches her how to shot a pistol...Was this a good thing? Well, you must pick up this read to find out just what is in store for Millie as she kills...well... this is where I say you must pick up this read and find out what all is going down with "Desert Harvest."  In the end you will find out what happens to Millie's mom when she goes to get her mom and what her father Bill will do. 

This was a short quick read that really turned out to be interesting read  and I would recommend "Desert Harvest" to you as a good read.

Hollywood Ever After

Author:  Sasha Summers
Published By: InkSpell Publishing
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5

Review:

"Hollywood Ever After" by Sasha Summers was a real good read; that involves Claire, her family, friends and Josh Wiley. This story is of a thirty-five year old  mother of two, that has a abusive ex-husband who doesn't understand the word NO and also a wonderful mother.  Claire is sent on a birthday holiday vacation in L.A. to visit with her best friend and it is there that she meets this movie star Josh Wiley. Jose is younger than Claire by seven years but he knows that Claire is what he wants however, Claire on the other hand is not sure that this will last. Now, this is where I say you must pick up "Hollywood Ever After" to find out if this guy will get this girl in the end.  Be ready for a lot of page turning till the end.

The characters are really off the chart good starting with Claire, Josh, Daniel,
Shannon,  Arther,Frank, Graham,  Will, Natalie, Regina, Angus, Jim, Meg, Helen, Nathan  to a few others that  this author had to really make this a wonderful well written read.  


If you are looking for a wonderful novel about a woman, her family, friends,
and abusive ex, to is now able to start a new life of happiness, love and even
have the "Hollywood Ever After".... you have come to the right place and I would recommend this novel for a good read.
 

Obsession: Tales of Irresistible Desire

Author:  Joe R. Lansdale (Contributor)+ others
Published By: Prime Books
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

Obession: In the Cold, Dark Time, by Joe R. Landale was quite some read that
was indeed interesting.  The story was from one of the Tales of Irresistible
Desire. This is one of the 19 collections of well written storytellers....'dark obessions.' Some of these stories may even be considered some type of
fantasy, horror, paranormal and even some anthologies.

Be ready for a well written read:

“Medusa’s Child,” Kim Antieau
“Hot Eyes, Cold Eyes,” Lawrence Block
“Hymenoptera,” Michael Blumlein
“She’s Not There,” Pat Cadigan
“My Lady of the Hearth,” Storm Constantine
“Calypso in Berlin,” Elizabeth Hand
“Lady Madonna,” Nancy Holder

“In the Cold, Dark Time,” Joe R. Lansdale

   This author story was just a healing through one dying person... giving
   words of encouragement  to another WWI soldier who was a  patient.  For
   he was needed to help care for the children. Later, he was able to help
   with kind words ...another patient (soldier) who was a pilot.  He told
   the solder that he "would get out of my bed and go back to the front lines
   to help the refugee children, and after the war he would help those who
   remained."
    .....................................................................................
   "I think again of the old man and the life he gave me back
    and the mercy he gives the children through me."


I found this a very touching story that I really enjoyed and I would recommend
you pick up this read.

“Nunc Dimittis,” Tanith Lee
“The Girl with Hungry Eyes,” Fritz Leiber
“Tallulah,” Charles de Lint
“The Snake Woman’s Lover,” Catherine Lundoff
“Land of the Lost,” Stewart O’Nan
“The Oval Portrait,” Edgar Allan Poe
“The Hound Lover,” Laura Resnick
“Barbara,” John Shirley
“An Apiary of White Bees,” Lee Thomas
“Close to You,” Steve Rasnic Tem
“The Light That Passes Through You,” Conrad Williams

I did notice that a few of these stories I had already read but still they were good in this collection. Be ready for some "irrational extremes, involves
us in dangerous liaisons and fatal attractions . . . obsession consumes.
Enticing, compulsively readable tales from nineteen masterful storytellers."
If you are into "Sirens, demon lovers, femme fatales, and others compel our
love, drawing us into realms of forbidden desire and uncontrollable passion".
you have come to the right place to enjoy your good read.

Second Chances

Author: Rita Oberlies 
Published By: Entangled Publishing
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Second Chances"by Rita Oberlies was a cute, witty,  complicated and hot
romance story. It kept me continuing to turn the page being a fast paced read until the end.

The story was of Luke Braden and Brenna Morgan who at one time had been sweethearts  but something had happened and they were torn apart. The title of this novel is "Second Chances" and you will be finding out from the read if there will be any of this from these two people. You will find in some of this novel is a bit complicated in all the problems that this heroine went through but it was also witty and definitely delicious where you will soon see if these two people deserve a chance to get it right this second time.
 
The characters were very well written with believable and realistic  personalities.
Brenna seemed to be like a very mixed up person who was very friendly, caring and even likable but OMG what all she had gone through and was still going was truly really something. Luke... was this 'high powered attorney'..who was sort of thought as a 'white knight' complex for Brenna. Now, I am sure you are asking at this point just what is "Second Chances" all about... and this is where I say you must pick up this good read to find out. Will this guy get this
girl in the end?


If you are in for a interesting, enjoyable and emotional ride then you have
come to the right place..and I do recommend "Second Chances" to you.

The Carny

Author:  Brooke Moss
Published By:  Inspell Publishing
Age Recommended:  14
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"The Carny" by Brooke Moss was simply sweet, wonderful and heart warming romantic read that I could not put down until I had finished it. I love it from the  first page.  Just how powerful and memorable was this kiss?  Well, I will
say it lasted for over ten years. WoW!

Charlotte Davenport and Vincent Youngblood's story starts out with a kiss while
she was at a carnival.  Ten years later they are now adults and now they were
back together. There will be a lots of soul searching in the novel...'love, prejudices, misunderstandings but most of all second chances at love and a final acceptance.'

"The Carny" was a well written story that was very clever, intelligent and funny.
I found myself laughing out loud while reading this novel.

All of the characters were all absolutely wonderful really making this story simply a  excellent read.


This is a lovely romance had such  a wonderful hero that I just couldn't get enough of and if you are interested in a sweet funny romance...you have come to the right place...."The Carny" I would recommend to you.

Too Hot to Handle

Author:  Aleah Barley
Published By: Entangled Publishing, LLC
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Too Hot to Handle" by Aleah Barley was a cute funny romantic read. The title
really sums up this good read. It seems like the hero (Jack) and the heroine
(Honey) had known each other in HS where they had dated for a week or so.  Later on it seems like Honey wired his police care to make a beer run and ended up in prison for as year and a half on grand theft auto charges.  Now is is out of prison and desire to go straight, however, Honey's home is burned down and she ends up breaking into this policeman(Jack) home and this is where this fast paced story starts.  Why would she go to him?  Well, she knew  him from school and she knew he would keep her safe. Will Jack help her?  Does Jack really need a woman like Honey in his life? Well, this is the time that I will say you must pick up "Too Hot to Handle" and see just what is in store for these two.  This is really a interesting read  that I really did enjoy reading.  These two characters will keep you turning your head asking what will happen next and I don't want

to forget about the 'Superbee'.... of its importance in this novel that you will pick up during your read. 

If you are in for a cute romance you have come to the right place...for Too Hot
to Handle" is a good read for you.

Ray Of Hope

Author:  Vanessa Davis Griggs
Published By: Dafina
Age Recommended:  YA
Rating: 5
Reviewed by: Arlena Dean

Review:

"Ray of Hope" by Vanessa Davis Griggs was another wonderful novel.This
beautiful story of a seventy-five year old grandmother who kept her two
granddaughters during the summer who had some major issues she had to
deal with.  This grandmother who was called Ma Ray was deeply rooted in memories of her own past and common sense and with all of this she was there to help her two granddaughters.

This novel was definitely one of those that once I started reading "Ray of Hope"
I could not put it down until I finished...so 4 and 1/2 hours later...I finished
a truly wonderful, beautiful  well written book. This was truly a read that you you will  see in the end that the granddaughters maturing and seeing things in life quite differently.

The characters are something...from Ma Ray, Sahara, Crystal, Lenora, Andre,
June Bug,Tosie, Erin and a few others... making this novel simply off the chart a good read.  If you have never read any of Ms. Vanessa Davis Griggs reads...be sure to pick this one up.  You will not be sorry. 

Ray of Hope is about a grandmother trying to give advice to her out of control granddaughters. "Each time the girls were in a predicament, Ma Ray always had a solution."  Ma Ray wanted the girls to have a positive outlook on life and not move on only impulse and most of all the granddaughters learned that their grandmother was not a push over...being unable to pull crazy stuff with her. YES! What a grandmother.. that always had a  good solution. Now, this is where I say you must pick up this read "Ray of Hope."

"Ray of Hope" is a story definitely that  will benefit  today's youth(teens) and
I would highly recommend this for a excellent read for all.

Illuminate-Alive, She Cried

Author:  Jamie Haden
Published By: Great Minds Think Aloud
Age Recommended: Adult
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Illuminate-Alive, She Cried" by Jamie Haden was a very good paranormal read.
I really liked the colorful descriptions this author added to this novel..such as
in the hurricanes seasons, rains, 'the great smokey mountains and even the snow storms... really bringing you into the story.

Just seeing how this granddaughter of a 'Shaman,' Talisha Santiago was to
survive from one island (Silence) ... then going to a clan of Indians in 'The Smokey Mountains with her blood brothers and then finding out that there were still many secrets and danger that lurked for Talisha. Just what was in store for this young lady? Just who were these tricksters that had it in for Talisha... Now, this is where I say you will have to find out by picking up this wonderful well written novel "Illuminate-Alive, She Cried." This novel was a real page turner for me because I could not put it down until the end... and that ending...I will say I didn't see coming... leaving me only to say WoW! Talisha's blood brothers, who were shifters..had promised to have such a bonded friendship... and would protect her...well you will soon see what happens with that along with a few other supposed friendships.

The authors' characters were all simply off the chart... good... from Talisa, Jag, Dakota, Charles Brantley, Tula, Kelly, Rebecca, Suzy, Sequoya, Andrew, John, Emily, Silas, Great grandmother, Lauren, Daniel, Miguel, Margaret, Roberto, Mr.Boots(Uncle Freddy), to Lucy and I am sure I have left someone out but you will find out in your read of "Illuminate-Alive, She Cried."

I enjoyed "Illuminate-Alive, She Cried" because it was a enjoyable novel and I
would recommend to anyone who would like a good paranormal read.

Forever Soul Ties

Author:  Vanessa Davis Griggs
Published By: Dafina
Age Recommended:  Adult
Recommended by:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  5

Review:

"Forever Soul Ties" by Vanessa Davis Griggs was another good VSG read for me.  I really enjoyed this novel for several reasons. One was for the 'Bible quotes and mini-sermons' along with the  beautiful story that only Ms. Griggs can give us.  In this novel there is a old flame love interest...now was this leading to a adulterous relationship?...the mistreatment of the wife for over twenty years..... and the many family problems that came about in this story.

Now, getting back to this 'Soul Ties' was really something in that this Ethan's character was really something...and I am so glad the way Ms. Griggs brought this novel out to us.  I do not want to say to much and give the story away...just pick this up and see just how "Forever Soul Ties" and this 'Butterfly' will turn out.

This novel will leave you being able to see how 'soul ties' can be a good or a bad thing but the decision will be all yours.  I love Ms. Griggs books and this one was right up there with all of the others... great!   You will truly be blessed by reading "Forever Soul Ties." and I do recommend it to you. 

The Other Side Of Goodness

Author:  Vanessa Davis Griggs
Published By: Kensington Books
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5

Review:
"The Other Side Of Goodness" by Vanessa Davis Griggs never ceases to amaze me. Ms. Griggs' novel seem to really be right what you need to hear...about trust, love, divorce, politics, health issues....'bone marrow transplant,' breast cancer and above all the love of God.  Definitely this was a Christian fiction that gets right to the heart. To see how Ms. Gabrielle has given her heart to the Lord was simply wonderful. Just seeing how she handles all that is  going on around her was just beautiful in how this author has her so well focused on doing the right thing.

The characters... from Gabrielle.. Zachary, Pastor Landris, Johnnie Mae Landris,
Congressman Lawrence Simmons, Malachi, Paris Imani, Dedra, William, Jessica to Jasmine  and many others... made this novel such a wonderful read.

From the Author..."It’s been eight years since Gabrielle Mercedes gave up her baby for  adoption. But when she learns the child desperately needs a bone marrow transplant, she doesn’t hesitate to contact the congressman. Like Lawrence, Gabrielle will fight for what she wants, even if it means the truth could ruin someone else’s life and career…."   Now, I know that makes you want to pick up this wonderful read to see just what it is all about.  You will not be disappointed!

"The Other Side of Goodness" was truly a enjoyable ride that you will not be able to put down until the end... definitely showing how God can take a sinner and put them on the other side of 'goodness.'

I recommend this book to all who would like to see how one can change and truly be of help to those in need.

LEMON REEF

Author:  Robin Silverman
Published By: Bold Strokes Books
Age Recommended:  Adult
Rating: 4
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Lemon Reef" by Robin Silverman was a real interesting read that displayed many flashbacks of two young ladies...Del(Adeline Soto) and Jenna in through  HS. These two were more than just friends... actually Lesbians until it was brought to a stop by Jenna's parents.  During this  time there was a lost of things going on with Del...the bruises,  hygiene, beatings, and custody threats... then there was 70's music...the problems Del had with her mom...Pascales...OMG ..this was really some time!  The novel was rather long but if you can stick with it ..."Lemon Reef" does come through ... dealing with a very  sensitive subject.  As the story moves on Del has died.  What happened to her and what will happen to her daughter Khila?  Will Talon get custody of Khila? This is a  fiction book about  well you will simply have to pick up this novel for yourself.......off the chain...really some read.   Also there is Jenna.. and even Talon.  Now, I will stop at this point and say you must pick up "Lemon Reef" to find out what will happen to these people and what was so great about the 'Lemon Reef'?   You will see there are no easy  answers to this novel...only leaving you saying.... Wow!  I am not sure I found this a great read for me  but a good one that had many  twist and turns and that will keep you turning the pages until the end. You will have to keep up or you may get lost and you don't want to do that!

There was a lot of characters...some were really interesting people  that made this storyline come together...from Jenna, Katie, Del, Norma, Gail, Sid, Lance, Pascales, Bea McVee, Margaret Todd, Jason, Dirk Beasley,  Alex Sanders, John, Tar Baby, Ida, Nicole, Sam Kramer, Anne Sloan, Ms Fernandez, Doug Andrews, and Mel, Brian, Donald, Edie, Susan, Andrew,  Khila, to  Madison and I am sure I have left someone out.  You must pick up "Lemon Reef" to find out who that is!

In this read you will read...about "reconciling with your past, coming out, being
queer, and first love are all beautifully told within a plot that will keep the
reader invested and interested." If you are in for a good fiction read that will
take you on a emotional roller coaster ride... you have come to the right place
for this good read.  Also, I believe it is a novel you will never forget!

Nine Monrths: A Novel

Author:  Paula Bomer
Published By: Soho Press
Age Recommended:  Adult
Rating: 4
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Nine Months: A Novel by Paula Bomer was definitely a different kind of book
to read. Sonia is unexpectedly pregnant with her third child and being somewhat confused, caught up with dissatisfaction and anger goes a a crazy road trip that retraced her life.  The trip took Sonia through casual sex, drinking and even smoking weed with people and places from her past....strangers, friends and even family.

This novel was a look at motherhood from a dysfunctional way in that it was vulgar, crude and but yet honest from its point of view.I know a lot of us will not like this novel but that was how this author presented it. Will this person be able
in the end be able to balance her personal satisfaction while being also a mother and a wife? Will she find the resolution or answers to all of this?  Now, this is the point that I will say you must pick up "Nine Months: A Novel" to see how this will all turn out.

If you are easily  offended by a crazy fictional portrayal of a pregnant woman doing every that she should not do...do not read this...you will not like it but if you would like to see how this author wrote this well written "Nine Months: A Novel" then I would recommend you pick this one up for a good read.  You may even find yourself smiling at some of its creativity.

Playing With Matches

Author:  Carolyn Wall
Published  Bantam
Age Recommended:Adult
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Playing With Matches" by Carolyn Wall was a wonderful read of a young
girl(Clea) recounting her difficult childhood in rural Mississippi and
then the story switches to the grown-up Clea... going back and forth until
the end.   I must say I enjoyed the novel.  It was a bit long but well worth
the read.  This young girl is abandoned by her birth mom that presents issue
that will stem into her adult life. 

This author worked her magic with such a well written novel presenting humorous parts that will put a smile on your face.  The characters... Aunt Jerusha and Uncle Cuddy were definitely wonderful characters so full of love.

Be ready for plenty of twist and unexpected turns but when in the end you will
have read a wonderful read that I would recommend as a excellent read.

RAPE GIRL

Author:  Alina Klein
Published By: Namelos
Age Recommended:  YA
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Rape Girl" by Alina Klein was definitely hard for me to read.  To know that
this has happened is really saddening...however, we are all left to think that
maybe there  is help out their  for the victims.  I would say that this book is a worth reading book that needs to be discussed with the teens.  I really liked how this victim Valerie narrated this information of how she was raped after a party in her own house by a guy she liked.

"Rape Girl" was very well written showing Valerie's reactions.... also the reactions of those around her and even undergoing stages of post traumatic shock...which lead to disbelief, depression and guilt.  Returning to school didn't help her much however,  the support therapy group was able to help  her come out of her shell.  Thank God Valerie had support from her mom, brother(Sam), a friend... Sandrina..Valerie's support therapy group, and Mrs. Gimli.

By this author letting us know "that she herself was raped as a teenager and by
reporting this heinous crime inflicted on her, another five girls also found the
courage to follow suit and come forward with similar stories." WoW!  I definitely
believe she knows what she is talking about. And due to Ms. Klein deliverance to
us you are made to understand why Valerie was so ashamed and blamed herself. I didn't like the treatment that Valerie had to go through.  I thought it was so sad... of all of those who sided with her attacker...even the principle and even those bullying Valerie. They just thought she was lying...trying to get attention for herself. WoW!   Now, I will stop here and simply say you must pick up "Rape Girl" and see for yourself how this turns out. 

This was a hard read for me...being told to always do the right thing and seeing this was not the case for this young lady.  It was like one her Valerie's teacher said."rape is the only crime in which the victim has to prove her innocence"..how sad  is this!


I believe this fast paced novel is just what is needed for our teens and I would recommend ..."Rape Girl" to all the YA understanding that NO means NO!

Remember Me

Author:  Penelope Wilcock
Published  Crossway
Age Recommended: Adult
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA
Review:

"Remember Me" by Penelope Wilcock was  her sixth book in The Hawk and Dove series and was a christian fiction. This novel was of the life of William de Bulmer who was a monk of the St. Alcuin...has fallen in love with the Abbot John's sister Madeleine ...oops...then he meets  Madeleine next door neighbor Mother Ellen Cottingham..who comes to love him as a son..and ask him to become her confessor...and now he has accidentally lost all of the Abby's money"... what would happen  for this monk next...could he be truly forgiven?  Now, this is where I say you must pick up this excellent read.."Remember Me" to find out just what is going on.

The historical details that this author displays was simply a masterful job in
describing the struggles that these monks had trying to live a godly life. We
really get a look through this Medieval storyline of that shows this monks true life struggles with despair dealing with love and walking a narrow path serving God.

The main character...Father William was solid wonderful person...very real..along with John(Abbot), Father Peregrine, Father Oswald, Madeleine, Mother Ellen Cottingham, Brother Michael, Brother Robert, Brother Thomas, Brother Fleix, Brother Chad, Brother Ambrose, Brother Richard,  Brother Bernard, Brother Giles, Martin, Brother Benedict, Brother Paulinus, Brother James, Brother Peter, Brother Michael, Brother Walafrid, Brother Stephen, Father Domonic, Brother Conradus, Brother Cormac, Father Theodore, Thomas Haydon and I am sure I have left someone out.. but if you pick up "Remember Me" you can see who that was. 


"Remember Me" was a wonderful read for me and I truly enjoyed each and every page.  I would definietly recommend this excellent novel is worth reading.

Mirror Bound

Author:  Leanne Herrera
Published By: Great Minds Think Aloud
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewer:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA
Review:

"Mirror Bound" by  Leanne Herrera was a sweet romance paranormal novel that was a excellent read.  This author was able to keep my attention all the way to  end. This novel was well written with such a wonderful dialogue that was very  captivating due to the its storyline. Ms. Herrera "Mirror Bound" novel is from the 'hills of Kentucky' here we find Anna Brice McKenna  has come home because her great grandmother has died..and she was  to settle the affairs and even try to figure out her own life.  Anna was a twin and her sister(Emma) had died in a car accident  a year ago and this had  left only Anna...alone..with no other family members to even want come to the funeral due to the fact that they considered "Ma was just a country hillbilly with nothing or any value to get, so why should they bother to come and sort through it all."  After the funeral Anna visited with her grands attorney, Mr. Seller, Anna finds out she has  inherited it all.  Now, there was a real decision for her to make and that was to stay in Kentucky and not return to school...because she hated it. Anna, however, also had her grandmothers 'magic powers.' Now the plot will thicken and their will be secrets that will come out ...such as why Anna and Emma mother Lily had left them with their grandmother?  What had happened to Anna's Ma and Pa? What was this big secret that was  well kept?  Who was this guy that Anna was falling in love with that was from her great grandmothers coven?   Why was Anna's mother Lily seeking 'to harm her and steal her powers?   Now, this is where I say you will have to pick up "Mirror Bound" to find out just what is  going  on in this novel.  Will the 'mother goddess' be able to help Anna gain her magic that hadn't been unbind before her grandmothers death?  ALL of these questions and more will be answered in this wonderful read of "Mirror Bound."  So,  pick it up!

All of the characters were simply  all very interesting...from Anna, John, Great-grandmother, Ma(Jean), Pa, Emma, Ivy, Mr. John, Mrs. Emily, Idelia(Ida), Janie Adams, Mr. Sellers, Shane, Tyler,Uncle Dave, Genty, Rene, Helen, Angela, Jarod, Deidra, Dawn, Goddess, to Justin and I am sure I have left someone out...you will have to find out who!

If you are looking for a good paranormal romance novel you have come to the right place to enjoy a read from "Mirror Bound." You will even feel like you may be in the hills of Kentucky....and I would recommend this read to you.

Tumbleweeds

Author:  Leila Meacham
Published By:  Hachette Book Group 
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewer:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Tumbleweeds" by Leila Meacham was some interesting read. In Kersey, this
story takes place in the Panhandle...with the story being told in third person.
These three orphans (Catherine Ann Benson and Trey Don Hall)and a abandoned child (John Caldwell),lead a very interesting life. I found this novel rather long but still fast enough to stay interesting for me.  Be ready for a lots
of twist and turns that will keep up turning the pages to see what was coming
up next. You have three friends... two boys and one girl that become fast friends... however, both boys are in love with the girl.  Now who would win her? After a series of happenings this completely comes apart. There will be a lots of
secrets being revealed in the next twenty years...eventually gripping the reunion of the trio when they are all  forty years old.  The story will leave no part unturned and the plot thickens until the very end. Now, this is where I say you must pick up "Tumbleweeds" to see how this all comes together.

The characters are all simply good and memorable....really adding passion, friendship and love to the dialogue and the importance of football in the small town of Kersey. This story will have one characters' life that leads to football, another to become a priest and the other to work in a diner. Even the dog importance was displayed...Rufus. In "Tumbleweeds" many decades of life's will be revealed in this good read.


If you are in for a good read full of mystery and suspense... you have come
to the right place. I recommend you pick up "Tumbleweeds" for a good read where you will find love, friendship, football, betrayal, secrets, murder, religion, sorrow, compassion misunderstandings and even forgiveness.

The Violets Are Mine: Tales of an Unwanted Orphan

Author:  Lester Morris
Published Xlibris
Age Recommended:Adult
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"The Violets are Mine: Tale of an Unwanted Orphan" by Lester Morris was really
some read for me.  I thought about putting it down several times but since I
have never done that I pressed forward.  I will say this wasn't a pleasant read
but a interesting one of what Lester Morris endured in these horrible orphanages
and foster home in England during World War II (1940's).  I can only say how Lester came through this was only that there was a God out there for him!  I can't imagine being bounced from orphanage to foster home and back to an orphanage again and again and come out sane from all that Lester had to endure.  From all of these corporal punishments he had to endure......only  proving that there was a God out there protecting him. This is some abuse(beatings) I could not even imagine!

These characters..his foster mom(Mrs. Green)referred to as 'Teeth' was a
horrible person ...then there was his 'dad' that was truly 'cold hearted' and horrible landlords. However, Lester Morris did meet some good people such as Santa Claus during one Christmas,  one Christmas story that turned out a great one for Lester, having his brother Doug around for a period of time....later to learn he had two other brothers and even two sisters, then there was  Mrs. Woodley was definitely his 'Fairy Godmother to  Lester, his time in the Junior Leaders,  and there were some others.  Now, this will be the time that I will say
you must pick up this read "The Violets Are Mine" to get this who picture of
Lester Morris story.  It will truly be one you will not forget.

What was very appealing about this novel was that Lester Morris wrote this in a
conversational voice making it feel like  you were being talked to instead of
talked at.  This novel was a autobiography  presented as a memoir  and  Lester
Morris didn't even consider himself a victim. WoW!  I found that very surprising...and  good ... showing  much feeling and emotions that really presented some wonderful  dialogue to the reader. 

In this read you will find out what the 'green penny-farthing bike,' was and how  to get rid of warts.  Again I will say this is a novel you must read... I am not sure I can say I liked it but Mr. Lester Morris did a wonderful  job presenting his life which went through 'indignities, abuse, sexual touchings'  and I am sure I have left plenty others out.  I was left at saying one word....'WoW' and that will be The End of that. Oh, one more thing...I thought it was amazing out this author Lester Morris "never gave up on life,  and is still going strong"  with his life.   I did love what happened for Lester Morris in toward the end...being able to slide down that  banister... you must read to find out  just what that was about.

Even though "The Violet are Mine:  A Tale of an Unwanted Orphan" was a hard read for me...it was definitely a eye opener that what happened to these children in foster care and orphanages during WWII .. only hoping that this has stopped is all I can say.  This was a well written autobiography and I would recommend as a excellent good read.

What Happened to My Sister

Author:  Elizabeth Flock
Published By:  Random House Publishing Group
Age Recommended 16
Reviewer:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"What Happened to My Sister:  A Novel" by Elizabeth Flock was  a follow up from Ms. Flock first book 'Me & Emma'... which was also  a good dialogue and a very interesting  read.  Be ready for many twist and turns because this is what you will get from "What Happened to My Sister."  The reading in a adult and child's voice was really a good affect on the read.

From Toast, North Carolina...to Hendersonville, North Carolina...then finally
to Hartsville, North Carolina.  Carrie(a young neglected and abused girl) and
her mother were making a new start. This is where Carrie meets a good friend named Cricket who has lost a sister too. Now Carrie and Cricket are inseparable.  Carrie is now thinking less of her sister, Emma. What will come of these two nine year old girls?  "When these two meet, their world's expand till it's bursting, changing who they are, and how they see the world they exist in."   This is simply beautiful story. Crickets' mom...Honor Chaplin Ford is "a 30-plus female who has suffered the loss of her daughter, her job and her marriage. Their lives are brought together on the 3rd anniversary of Honor's daughter' death. Thus, begins the healing and salvation they both need."   This is the time that I will say that you must pick up this wonderful read..."What Happened to My Sister" to find out just what the big secret is and seeing this process of healing in that questions will be answered and the end will all be  well for Carrie.

The characters were simply off the chart...from Carrie(Caroline), (her mom-Libby), Richard, Cricket(Hannah), Mrs.Honor Chaplin Ford, Eddie, Misty Rae, Janey, Mr. & Mrs.
Hap Burdock, Hunter,Lucy, Uncle Charles, to Mr. Wilson and I am sure I have left someone out...so you will have to pick up this excellent read and find out. Also in this read find out how to cure hiccups...with "Levon Hiccups Remedy."


If you are in for a good fiction read you have come to the right place...for a very interesting read and Yes I would recommend "What Happened to My Sister: A Novel" as a excellent read.  

59 HOURS...A Short Dark Thriller

Author:  R.E. Schobernd
Published By:  R.E. Schobernd at Swashwords
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Blog For:  GMTA
Review:

"59 Hours by R. E. Schobernd was a good short thriller that left you saying "OMG"  I did not see that coming. I read this very fast definitely not putting this
one down until the end (25 minutes).

For Frances...all she wanted to love... from her mother and then Michael...it
seems like Frances thought she had found someone to care about her after leaving her mothers place...after showing up at her cousin's (Mikey) place...where he wasn't present but there was Michael Smith (a friend of Mikey) who was showing  Frances  love and kindness...only was this for real?  Now, this
is the time that I say you must pick up "59 Hours" to find out just what is going on.  Has Frances found love and how does bank robbing and murder fix into all of this?

I like the way the author presented this short story because it really turned out differently from my thought pattern and that ending...Wow!

For a quick short thriller  I would recommend "59 Hours" to you as a good read.

Change of Pace

Author:  Sofia Essen
Published By:  48Fourteen
Age Recommended: Adult
Rating: 4
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"Change of Pace" by Sofia Essen was definitely a pace that Anne Cox needed
after being dumped by her boyfriend, fired from her New York job after ten
years and turning thirty...all in the same week. So, Anne jumps on a plane
to Greece, meets Alex Collins and end up in Crete... then a small village outside
Chania called Drapanias at a Bed/Breakfast that belonged to Alex's mom..Jane.
In this new place Anne meet the friendly villagers and starts to blend in even
enjoying the local white wine...Restsina and then a romance with ...this Alex guy.  Has Anne finally found happiness like she has never had before...just loving the simple things in life?  Now, I will stop at this point and say you must pick up "Change of Pace" to see how this sweet and heartwarming story plays out. You will find out that..." Anne is a girl much like you and me, slightly insecure, hard working and organized, so it was easy to connect with her, but by the end of the book, she finds out that friends, calmness and a nice environment to live in suit her much better" than the hassle and busy life Anne had in New York.
 
Be  ready for a good read...it's rather long winded...but if you would like
some humor elements with some seriousness...then you have come to the right
place. The authors' descriptions are very solid and so interesting....making
it seem as you are right there. Also, I like the story being told in first
person.

All of the characters were simply wonderful..from Anne, Alex, Daisy, Jane, Eleni, George,George(female), Olivia, Baker Slelios, Rula, Tom, Yannis, Maria,Sofia, Jacqueline Cox(Jack),Tiny (dog), Nikos, Mrs. Collins, Olga, Georgia, Oliver
Trent,  to Richard and I am sure I have left one  or two out so pick up "Change of Pace" to find out who it is.

If you are in for a good romantic read with lots of twist and turns.."Change
of Pace" is for you. You will find it very interesting read that I would recommend
to you. 

A Man of Honor

Author:  Loree Lough
Published By:  Ablingdon Press
Age Recommended: 14
Rating: 5
Blog For: GMTA

Review:

"A Man of Honor" by Loree Lough was the third book in the series (The First
Responders Series)  and a very good inspiring read that I  thoroughly enjoyed.
I found this novel to be not only beautiful but also  powerful. Be ready for
many twist and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat and I did find myself
laughing at a lot as the story progressed. 

How this author got these two people together was simply a work of art. Dusty
Parker was not only a pastor, a search and rescue team member, but also in
charge of eleven  troubled teen boys that he cared for deeply..then there was
a gang leader(Gonzo) who also wanted Dusty's boys in his gang.   Grace Sinclair was a teacher...and one of her students(Melissa) had disappeared and ended up
dead and this is where these two (Dusty & Grace) meet up and you will get the  answer to the question...Was this 'love at first sight?' Will there be test in this relationship?  Now, this is where I say you must pick up this excellent "Man of Honor" to see how this author gets this story out because the end will be a real
test that only if you read "A Man of Honor" will you find out if...'Grace could do it!'

The characters were really all very very good..making this story so believable
and powerful...Dusty, Melissa, Grace, Mitch, Gavin, Derek, Lucille, Matt, Honor,
Montel, Cody, Trevor,  Molly Logan, Kylie, Uncle Mike, Joe, Frank Benedict,
Jesse Vaugh, Dom, Destor, Jack, Billy, Axel, Nick, Tony, Nestor, Miller, Shipley,
Isaacs, Gonzo, Randi Fletcher, Ethan, Austin, Keith,and  Agent Spencer  Pastor Nolt, Mercy, Amanda, Dr. Applegate, Anita, Conner, Adam Miller,  Blake, Flynn, Mr. Miller, Dr.Peterson, Marianai, Brigid  and  Tucker.

"A Man of Honor" showed much love, faith, humor, death and even tears. If you are in for a excellent read I would recommend this one for you.

Always a Bridesmaid

Author:  Cindi Myers
Published By:  Entangled Publishing:  Indulgence
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewer:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Blog For:  GMTA




Review:

"Always a Bridesmaid" by Cindi Myers was nice well written good romance novel and I did thoroughly enjoyed the read.

Stephanie was a graduate student working for her father...she was a very determined independent and capable of not letting anyone or anything get in the way of her goals. Stephanie's mom had left her and her dad when she was only sixteen...Mike was head of his own construction firm....single parent with a son...nine year old Ryan.

Due to Stephanie's friend Justin...she meets Mike(landlord)....and she ends up renting a room from Mike.    Justin  was a friend of Mike and Stephanie and he was getting married ...Mike was the best man and Stephanie ended up also being in the wedding... as a bridesmaid.  After a impromptu kiss...it was decided  (Mike and Stephanie) would keep their distance...not wanting to get 'involved.'  "They wouldn't fool around as long as they lived under the same roof."   Now... Mike had been referred to as grim...has a son, ex-wife (with boyfriend.... and for Stephanie...there was her dad, his girlfriend and then  their were the housemates. 

Stephanie was looking for love and was afraid to move forward for fear of being hurt again...just like
her father.  For Mike  who was a recently divorced dad and had  turned sour when it came to any relationships due to the way he had been treated in his last marriage.  Will Stephanie and Mike start a relationship  and if so will  this be  kept a secret?  Now, this is the time that I say you must pick up "Always a Bridesmaid" to find out if there will be a relationship between these two. 

The characters were all interesting and even very believable  referring to  Stephanie, Mike, Justin, Ilisa, Judy, Kay,Ryan, Jack, Kaye, Grace, Todd, Madeline, Paul, Sandy, and Nicole.

"Always a Bridesmaid" was a quick read and if you are in for a sweet good read then
I would recommend this one for you.