(Review) Gabby, Angel of God by Greg Sendora

Title: Gabby, Angel of God
Author: Greg Sendora
ISBN: 1496045866 
Pages: 219 pages
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Publication Date: February 18, 2014

 

 

 

Book Description

Just when a young man feels he has lost everything he meets an angel and finds out that his life is just beginning. Gabby is an angel of God who shows him that life is always full of surprises, adventures and a lot more meaning than we can easily fathom. She shows Bo how to help others, be open to love again and find the hidden strength that lies within all of us. It is a story with heart and hope that will take you on an adventure of faith with one amazing angel.

Gabby, Angel of God will take you on one heck of a ride!

4 Stars

****

Gabby, Angel of God has an overall decent plot. I enjoyed the journey I went on with Bo and Gabby. The author did a great job at pulling the reader in and taking them on one heck of a ride. The main character Bo, becomes a widower with two children and doesn't seem to know how to move on from the death of his wife. Gabby, an angel appears to him to teach him how to live again.

There were some aspects I didn't particularly care about through the story. At times it seemed hard to believe, such as an angel of God cussing or threatening demons or mortals. Once I read this, it was a bit harder for me to continue. Some of the ways Gabby portrayed herself, was hard for me to read.

There were parts of the story where I was really drawn in but at times I found the story dragging. I loved the references to God within the book. Books based upon faith are winners to me, however if you're not drawn into these types of books, I would pass.

(Review) Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo

Title: Heaven is for Real
Author: Todd Burop with Lynn Vincent
Format: Paperback
Pages: 163

Description:

A young boy emerges from life-saving surgery with remarkable stories of his visit to heaven. Heaven Is for Real is the true story of the four-year old son of a small town Nebraska pastor who during emergency surgery slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He survives and begins talking about being able to look down and see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room. The family didn't know what to believe but soon the evidence was clear. Colton said he met his miscarried sister, whom no one had told him about, and his great grandfather who died 30 years before Colton was born, then shared impossible-to-know details about each. He describes the horse that only Jesus could ride, about how "reaaally big" God and his chair are, and how the Holy Spirit "shoots down power" from heaven to help us. Told by the father, but often in Colton's own words, the disarmingly simple message is heaven is a real place, Jesus really loves children, and be ready, there is a coming last battle.

 5 Stars

*****

When I first started this book, I had no idea what I was in store for. I was thinking that this little boy Colton would confirm the stories I had grown up with and learned since I was a child. As I started reading Colton's journey and learning more about him, I came to care for him and the outcome of his situation. I found myself crying when he needed to go back into the hospital or more tests needed done.

I completely enjoyed reading this story. I'm a strong believer in Jesus Christ, so any book which one recommends for me to read, is put down on my to be read list. I recently (May 2013) experienced a loss of my own. I gave birth to my forever sleeping (stillborn) daughter. My world turned upside down and my faith became the stronger than it had ever been. I turned to Jesus, faith, and love for healing. That's when I sat down and prayed for my way of healing. I wrote my journey in a book "Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello" and started my healing through pouring out my soul and hope within this book. Even ten months after her loss and my finding peace, I still question if she's sitting on Jesus' lap.

As I read through Todd Burpo's book and his son's story, I came up to one spot that put me in tears. The moment I found out the Burpo's had also lost a baby and Colton had seen her in Heaven. That made me think, if the unborn child they lost made it to Heaven and was with Jesus, what made my daughter Dakota any different? I had to stop reading briefly while I cried at this realization. My baby is in fact with Jesus and Heaven is for Real confirmed it for me. This little boy and his extraordinary trip helped me to fully see that Jesus loves the children, including mine.

This is by far one of the best books I have read this year and I even have an extra copy to giveaway. As I am an author myself, I can't wait to add this into one of the giveaways. If you're looking for a book that will have you thinking differently after and feeling the strong hope that I have now, you NEED to read this book!!

(Review) Today Only by D. Love

Title: Today Only
Author: D. Love
Pages: 246

Format: Kindle

Description:

In life, there are times you are granted a miracle. It may not be the one you wanted exactly, but it will be the one you need. It will prepare you for the next step in your journey and help you learn to accept the life you are given, even if that life can be heartbreaking.

4 Stars

****

 (Spoiler Alert)

Today Only was an heartbreaking read for me. The overall story was enjoyable, although there are some things which bothered me about the book. Personally I believe the falling in love of the main characters went a bit quick for my liking. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Rye, the main character who's facing the fact that she's dying of a tumor. The setting has us in a March of Dimes walk where Rye and her daughter Emily are participating in. We get a glimpse of Emily writing notes to herself as a way to cope with her mothers condition, but this isn't mentioned much more within the book. Emily and Rye run into Jet during the walk and they finish the walk together. 

Shortly into the story, Jet and Rye quickly fall in love. I personally feel this was too quick because there were no event which lead up to these feelings. Up to this point, there's hardly any conversation and Jet finds Rye is in a car accident, which from this point on their madly in love. 

Other than this, I did find myself holding back tears as the story progressed. I enjoyed reading about the love Rye's family has and the way they looked at life even though Rye was going to pass on. The compassion that was shown throughout the book by each character shows that life is to be lived filled with showing others how much you care about them. 

Overall, I highly enjoyed the read and will be looking forward to more works by D. Love. I recommend this book to anyone who loves to read a tearjerker that has an overall message to it. 

(Review) Broken Earth by Lee Ryder

Title: Broken Earth
Author: Lee Ryder
Pages: 243

Format: Kindle

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1492902713
Publisher: Ryder Publishing (October 31, 2013)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.


Description:

The world has changed for Jess, her parents brother and sister are gone taken by an unknown wasting disease brought on by the spread of industry. She and other survivors forge their way in this new world avoiding the violence and gangs in the streets.

5 Stars

*****

Broken Earth is an entirely new world than what we know. Present day life is over and a new life style has begun. Disease takes over and there is only one thing left for Jess to do... survive. She does everything in her power to stay alive while gangs run rapid throughout the area and the disease has killed everyone older then 25 years old. The violence is creeping around each corner.

Jess isn't alone though. She has her best friend Ian and his younger sister, Lucie. As they are traveling to the promised land, they run into Molly. Each of them use their survival skills to stay alive during their trials. 

Jess is faced with a brutal rape and what lies within her future has me wanting more. This book is one that I couldn't put down. Once I started reading it, I had to finish it. I loved the suspense and the characters. I would say that Jess would be my favorite so far. I think if you're looking for a fast paced, yet interesting read, this would be your pick. 

I can't wait until the next one and I highly recommend this as a read.

(Review) Saved by Kelly Elliott

Title: Saved
Author: Kelly Elliott
Format: Kindle
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 508 pages

Description:
Ari who comes from a loving home with a family who has had more than their share of difficulties, is faced with possibly losing the love of her life. All she dreams of is growing old and having children with Jeff, but a family history and a conniving Rebecca could shatter that dream.

Trying to support Jeff and cope with all the truths and possibilities of her own destiny may prove to be more than one person can handle.

Jeff’s dream is to raise horses on his ranch in Mason with the only women who has ever filled his heart and soul. But he’s running the risk of losing her by trying to be the man he knows he should be by taking on his responsibilities. He’s completely bewitched by the passionate and ever outspoken Ari, but needs to do right for the child that could possibly be his.

Despite all the odds stacked against them can their relationship be…..SAVED?

 2 Stars

**

I was excited to read this because of the cover. But,  I couldn't handle the fact that the cussing within the book was way too much. The basic story line was interesting but I couldn't get over the F-bomb in just about every paragraph and I don't go for using the Lords name in vain. I couldn't keep up with the story because there was too much jumping around. I think with a bit more time put into the writing of this book, it could be an interesting read.

(Review) I Will Carry You by Angie Smith

Title: I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy
Author: Angie Smith
Format: Kindle
Pages: 224

Genre: Christian Living > Women's Issues


Description:

 In 2008, Angie Smith and her husband Todd (lead singer of the group Selah) learned through ultrasound that their fourth daughter had conditions making her “incompatible with life.” Advised to terminate the pregnancy, the Smiths chose instead to carry this child and allow room for a miracle. That miracle came the day they met Audrey Caroline and got the chance to love her for the precious two-and-a-half hours she lived on earth. Upon receiving the original diagnosis, Angie started a blog (Bring the Rain) to keep family and friends informed of their journey. Soon, the site exploded in popularity, connecting with thousands who were either experiencing their own heartbreaking situations or simply curious about how God could carry someone through something so tragic. I Will Carry You tells the powerful story of a parent losing her child, interwoven with the biblical story of Lazarus to help those who mourn to still have hope—to find grace and peace in the sacred dance of grief and joy.

 

5 Stars

*****

I discovered Audrey's story when I lost my daughter, Dakota. For the past few months, I have been mainly interested in reading books written by people who went through the loss of a child. As soon as I began reading, I couldn't stop. Audrey's story touched me. I absolutely love the Bible references within this book and the Faith written within the words. As I was reading this, I have to say that Angie opened my eyes to different aspects of our loss.

I was very touched spiritually while reading this book. I believe now that God had a purpose for Dakota and used her to bring me closer to him for a life plan he has for me. I believe his plan for me is to help others who are going through the same thing I did. As I read Audrey's story, it helped to to reflect back on my own written story of my angel baby. I couldn't believe how similar they were but yet, they were so different. I am one of those parents who was thrown into the grief and I didn't have the time to prepare myself or my daughter. This book has helped me form the words I needed to answer some of the questions my daughter has asked. Angie has made me realize that it is okay to say, "I don't know" and not feel like I was letting her down.

I couldn't help but comparing I Will Carry You with my own published book, Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello. I felt like another side of the story was being told. I want to say that this book will help those who are lost after they have experienced the heartbreaking event of child-loss and it'll help those who haven't gone through it to understand.

I believe there is so much more to this story and it's a message to those who question their own Faith. I must say that after reading this, I picked up my Bible for the first time in months and began reading it. So, a HUGE thank you goes out to Angie Smith for sharing her story. 

 

(Review) Sunshine After The Storm by Various Authors

Title: Sunshine After The Storm- A Survival Guide for the Grieving Mother

Author: Various Authors

Genre: Non-Fiction/Grief and Bereavement
Pages: 361

Format: Kindle


Description: A compelling read from start to finish, this supportive guide to navigating pregnancy and infant loss will arm you with life-changing tools that will help you feel part of a dynamic community. The complexities of pregnancy and infant loss are explored by survivors themselves rendering this must-read book a first hand personal narrative that invites people to feel less alone in the aftermath of such devastating experiences. Grief knows no timeline and this thoughtful book does an exceptional job of explicating ways that society could more sensitively embody this concept by normalizing the spectrum of mourning. Profound losses create seismic changes in self-image, relationships, and overall identity. Many women blame themselves for their reproductive hardships and harbor monumental shame as a result. Contributors delve into crevices of their minds and hearts and courageously express the complexities of their processes- journeys that should be shared and not silenced, providing enlivening inspiration and raw accounts of how life perspectives are invariably altered in the wake of loss. This accessible guide provides valuable tips and resources for grieving families which serve as a grounding way to acknowledge the pain, ease the grief, and explore pockets of hope.

A vital resource for anyone who has experienced these kinds of losses and those who love them.

- Jessica Zucker, Ph.D.
Clinical psychologist and writer specializing in women's reproductive health.

****

(4 Stars) 

Sunshine After the Storm was picked off of my list, or should I say unexpectedly added to my reading to review list, because of the loss I have just recently went through. I've given birth to a stillborn and I've been reading about this subject matter since. I saw this book while surfing through Amazon looking for another grief book.

This book is filled with personal stories of loss with a touch of inspiration. Although I find that most of the subject matter is on miscarriages or multiple losses, I think this could benefit someone who has been there. The few stories on Stillbirth hit home for me and the inspiration that was given from the stories, are a blessing. I can't thank the women enough for reaching out to others and giving them hope.

Although at times this book was hard to read because of the editing, I would recommend it to any and all grieving parents. Not just the mothers. Fathers too. If a father were to read this, he could see some bits of what the mother of the baby is going through. I'd also say this is a good read for those who want to understand what a grieving parent is going through, even if the loss happened years ago.

(Review) My Angel by Jaime Gibson

Title: My Angel
Author: Jamie Gibson
Format: Kindle
Genre: Non-Fiction

Description

Pregnancy is supposed to be a wonderful time; a special moment that will change your life forever. Sharing the love with your four- year -old, who can’t wait to be a big brother. Getting ready to bring the baby home, feeling those first fluttering’s, and loving your baby. But what happens when things start going wrong? When the doctors won’t listen, when your boyfriend’s indifferent?

Being put on bed rest then praying you can carry long enough to give birth to a healthy baby. And when you can’t take the pain from the contractions anymore, they tell you they won’t even try to save your little girl. How do you tell your little boy that he will never get to meet his baby sister? How do you get through the pain of both, the delivery and the heartache?

They say, “That which does not kill you makes you stronger,” but the phrase only works when it DOESN'T kill you….

Author Jamie Gibson tells the story of how her second pregnancy affected not only her life, but those around her. She describes the trying circumstances surrounding her family during her troubled pregnancy. And Jamie shows how a baby, that she was never able to hold, made her stronger to face the rest of her life.

My Review

5 Stars

*****

Where do I even begin? I lost my daughter three weeks ago. She was a stillborn. I was gifted this book to read. At first I wasn't sure if I could read it due to the fact that I'm going through the same thing the author tells within her story. However, curiosity got the best of me and I began reading. I'm very glad that I did.

This is a raw true story of the pain a mother endured with the loss of her baby girl. She gives it to the reader and doesn't sugar coat, which I am happy with that. I felt her pain and wanted to cry out for her. At times I felt like I was right there beside her, watching the story unfold right in front of my eyes.

The book is very well written and can give a small view into the world a mother enters with the loss of a child. I recommend this book to everyone. This book can help give hope to the Momma's who are going through the same thing and can give people who haven't a small bit of what mothers are going through when they are faced with the loss of a child.

(Review) Lulu and the Laughing Daisy by Lynette Freeman

Title: Lulu & the Laughing Daisy
Author: Lynette Freeman
Format: Kindle
Genre: Children's

Description:

Lulu is a curly little bug full of fun and laughter. The only thing missing is a friend to share the fun with. Like any other day, Lulu was in the garden playing, but something was not right. Something was missing. Her laugh! She lost her laugh! Where did it go? Where could it be?

Will Lulu find her laugh again? And more importantly, will she find a friend?

This fun and captivating children’s book is about how a ladybug discovers that laughter and joy are meant to be shared with friends. “Lulu and the Laughing Daisy” has colorful illustrations and is an amusing bedtime story for girls ages 3 to 6 years old.

My Review

5 stars

*****

I must say that this book means a lot to me. I lost my daughter Monday, May 27th, 2013 due to her being a stillborn. Yesterday, June 4th I went up to her grave site to read to her and this book jumped out at me while I was looking for the perfect book. I got the book and read it to her. The story made me think of one thing. While Lulu was looking for her laugh, one thing came into mind.

I may have lost my laugh now but I will eventually get my laugh back in the garden's of heaven.

I want to personally thank the author for writing such a great book that has helped me in the loss of my beautiful baby girl. I have read this book over and over since I got it and will continue to do so.

I think that for this story... I highly recommend it.

(Review) Burning Bridges by Nadege Richards

Title: Burning Bridges
Author: Nadege Richards
Format: Kindle
Pages: 379

Description:

Do or Die...

In a world that has been divided amongst the Hunter race and the Warrior, prisoners who have fallen prey to King Cyrus' decrees are forced into the arena to fight until death. Winner is granted mercy and privilege to see another sunrise. Death unto the weak. In an attempt to get back at everyone who has ever shut her out, seventeen year-old Princess Echo becomes another victim, dragging Ayden, her forbidden love, along in a race to freedom, to find out who she really is, and to put a world that has been swallowed by lies back together again.

In the first installment of The Bleeding Heart Trilogy, life becomes a dangerous game of kill or be killed, love or let go. When death threatens the forbidden love of an unlikely couple and they are forced to do the unthinkable, to what extent will they go to be together?

My Review 

*****

(5 Stars)

Where do I even begin? Overall I loved this book. As soon as I finished reading it, I had to buy the second in the series. The plot ran smoothly and kept my attention. The characters are very well written and developed. These two things are one of the major things in a book that I look at. If I can't get into the plot or the characters, I have a hard time finishing the book. Not with this one. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. I would read into the early morning hours knowing I had an early morning the next day. I just couldn't help it.

The cover art made the book even more interesting for me. This added in with my want to read. The book carries emotions that the reader takes with them even after the story is over. I found myself laughing and even crying in parts of this book.

I would recommend this read to everyone and suggest you don't pass it up. It's very well worth the time and you won't regret it. 

  

*** I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.***

(Review) Nautre Calls by Bonnie Bernard

Title: Nature Calls
Author: Bonnie Bernard
Pages: 169
Format: Kindle (mobi)
Available on Amazon

Description:

“Nature Calls” is a 40,000 word anthology of fourteen short stories revolving around the idea, “If Mother Nature and Sister Karma whipped up a cauldron of ‘Double, double toil and trouble’ soup, this might be the result.” From ghosts to goblins to three-legged, one eyed Pomeranians, Nature Calls offers something for everybody who looks at life through cock-eyed glasses. Warning…you may never enter the woods or an outhouse the same way again.

My Review

****

(4 stars)

This book is a collection of 14 short stories. *I was given a copy of the book in return for an honest review.*

The idea behind some of the stories were great. Others weren't so great. I totally enjoyed reading The Ricki Shay Effect and The Devil's Detailer. I think these two alone could have been their own novels. I would love to see the author expand them into much more powerful novels. As for the other short stories, even though I didn't really like them, it doesn't mean you wont. I felt that some could have been a bit longer and had more to them. 

The overall writing is fantastic and the author did a great job with the main idea of this book. The characters are entertaining in each short story. My favorite character is Howie Evil and I would love to read more about him. The plot to the two stories that I read really pulled me in and I couldn't stop reading until the end. 

I love the idea that the author is donating all proceeds up to $100.00 to a wildlife rescue group from this book. I think it's a great cause, and I am glad to have been able to help out with this.

(Review) Love's Second Chance by L.P. Dover

Title: Love's Second Chance
Author: L.P. Dover
Pages: 248
Format: Kindle

Description:

Korinne Anders had it all. She had the perfect job, the perfect house, and the perfect husband. When tragedy strikes, her world takes a devastating turn. Six months after losing her husband to a car accident, Korinne vows it to herself never to love again. If she doesn’t allow another man in her heart, then there’s no reason for her to feel the pain of loss. This plan seems to work, but is put to the test when Korinne’s best friend can’t stand to see her suffering any longer.

Korinne’s long-time friend, Jenna Perry, has an idea and it involves helping her friend find the spark of life in her soul no matter what it takes. Korinne didn’t know that Jenna’s plan meant bringing back a past love, a second chance with the man that Korinne had to leave in college, but always kept a place for in her heart. When Galen Matthews learns of Korinne’s loss and that she’s finally moved back home, he wants nothing more than to be there for her. The love he felt for Korinne years ago has never left him, and now he’s given a second chance to not only mend her heart of her loss, but to also continue the love they shared in the past. Will his love and determination make her strong enough to give fate a second chance, or will her fear of losing another love make her run away? What will Korinne do when she’s faced with a love so powerful that no matter what she does there’s nowhere to run from it?

Review

*****

5 Stars

This is the first book I have read by this author and I must say I am hooked. I love her writing style and the fact that she pulled me into the story so quickly. The start of this book is emotional to say the least. I had to actually put down my Kindle and hug my own husband because I couldn't imagine going through what the main character, Korinne did. I'm not going to give an overview of what happens in this review. I am going to say that it's a must read and one you don't want to pass up.

The plot runs smoothly and the characters are amazingly written. I fell in love with Korinne and was hoping her life turned for the better. That seemed to happen when Galen was introduced. He's a guy that every woman wishes she had. The romantic side of this character... WOW, can I have one of him for myself? I liked the fact that Korinne had her best friend but the pet names they had for each other was a bit weird for me.

Parts of the book are predictable but I am happy they work out the way it does. I would have been disappointed if they didn't. Overall I can say I have another favorite author to add to my list and will most definitely be reading more of her work. If you decide to read this, grab a cup of coffee and a box of tissues. You'll need them. 

(Review) Tainted Love by Eva Márquez

Title: Tainted Love
Author: Eva Marquez
Pages: 173
Format: Kindle
Description:

Isabel thought her life was on track – she was doing well in college, moving quickly toward her future, and deciding who she wanted to be. Best of all, she’d reunited with Tom, the swim coach she had a secret affair with in high school. But it doesn’t take long for her history – and his – to start catching up with them.

When Isabel goes back to her college life, after spending a blissful summer reuniting with Tom, things take a dangerous turn. Isabel gets swept up in a relationship with a dark, mysterious professor, with whom she begins a covert love affair that could ruin everything she has rebuilt with Tom. Worse, she starts to hear rumors from friends back home - rumors about a teacher having affairs with students. And Tom seems to be at the center of the controversy. Will Isabel’s instincts about what Tom’s been up to during their time apart drive her farther away, or will she forgo her new romance to run to Tom’s defense?

Tainted Love is Book Two of the Sweetest Taboo Series, a controversial and edgy contemporary YA romance series appropriate for readers sixteen and over. Sweetest Taboo, Book One of the series, was released on October 1, 2012. Book Three, Time After Time, is scheduled to be released on December 3, 2013.

My Review

*** 3 Stars

I'm not real sure where to start, so I'll write as things come to mind. Tainted Love doesn't seem to be written as good as the first within this series. I felt like I was listening to an immature teen ramble on about their life. I really thought that the main character, Isabel would have been a bit more mature, because she was grown and in college. I honestly think she's worse in this one. It doesn't seem like she's grown up at all. She claims she loves Tom but joins into another relationship with someone else. During this time she worries if Tom is being unfaithful but doesn't even really consider what she's doing. It was annoying. I had a hard time caring for her and rooting for her in this one.

I actually feel bad for Tom. No matter how much of his heart he gives within this book, Isabel just doesn't see it. Because of the way she behaved, I couldn't really get into the story as much as I wanted to.

I noticed in a few places where the point of view changed, which added a bit of confusion. In the third chapter we see it from Tom's point of view but it goes from first person into third later in the book.

I will eventually read the next book to see what happens and I'm hoping that Isabel grows up.

*I received Tainted Love for review. All opinions are my own. *

(Review) Sweetest Taboo by Eva Marquez

Title: Sweetest Taboo
Author: Eva Marquez

Pages: 296

Format: Kindle

Description:

Isabel Cruz was fifteen years old when she met Tom Stevens. She was 15 when they started dating, and 16 when she lost her virginity to him. By the time she turned 18 and went to college, everything had fallen apart. This hadn’t been an ordinary love, though. Not a love between two dear friends, or even high school sweethearts. This had been the most taboo sort of love there was: a relationship between a student and her teacher. Isabel started her high school career as a normal student, but set her sights on Tom Stevens as soon as she met him, and pursued him with an intense – and sometimes reckless – fascination. When he finally approached her after swim practice and told her that he shared her feelings, it was the start of a forbidden and dangerous relationship. Join Isabel as she makes her way through this dark love story, hiding from teachers, lying to her parents, and defying the authorities to make a life with the man she loves. Watch as she discovers the wonders of love and romance, and the terrible betrayal of jealous friends. And cry with her when she learns the hard truth about life and the people in her world. Sweetest Taboo is inspired by the true and tragic stories of students who fall in love with their teachers, and live with the hard truths of forbidden romances. In a world full of after-school specials on sexual predators, this touching book seeks a different path, casting both student and teacher in a gentle light, and showing that true love may lie at the base of even the most illicit romance. Sweetest Taboo is Book One of a contemporary YA romance series.

My Review 
*****

This story is a journey which is based on a real story. This is included within the authors note which was one of the things that pulled me in. The cover art was another. I love the cover and it screams out "read me." This book is based upon the love a teenage girl and her 30 year old teacher develop. Normally I wouldn't be interested in reading such a subject but I figured I'd give it a try.   

Isabel Cruz, a fifteen year old student, joins the swim team and Tom Stevens, the swim coach, catches her attention. Isabel begins with a crush on Mr. Stevens and to those around her it's easy to see. She makes no attempt to hide her feelings towards the coach. Mr. Stevens slowly begins to return the attraction by doing small things such as holding Isabel's necklace during practice or handing her a towel when she gets out of the pool. At this point in the story I felt that Mr. Stevens shouldn't have approached Isabel because of his authority and his position.

Isabel's crush goes further and very quickly developed. Mr. Stevens begins his approach with Isabel by requesting she write him a letter with her feelings in it for him. Thus sparking their relationship. This is where the story really pulled me in. Each time they met up, I could feel my heart pounding because I figured they'd be caught.

Throughout the story, their love for each other grows and things become more complicated. I really enjoyed reading this from Isabel's perspective, which helped me see things through her young eyes. At first I was reluctant to read this book because of my own views of student/teacher relationships, but once I got into chapter three I couldn't put the book down. The journey kept me on my seat and kept me turning the pages.

The book is written well and it's easy to read. I enjoyed each page and I'm looking forward to reading the next within this series. For those who don't mind these types of books and is open to reading them... I say this is one not to pass up. That is why I give Sweetest Taboo 5 stars.

About the Author

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, daughter of European immigrants, Eva Márquez has spent most of her life outside of her home country. At the age of five, Eva accompanied her parents to the United States, where the family settled permanently. After graduating from college, she went on to complete graduate studies in International Relations in Spain. Eva received her Master of International Studies degree from the University of Sydney and went on to work in the global health field in Sub Saharan Africa and South East Asia. Eva currently resides in Southern Africa with her young daughter.

More Books by this Author:

Tainted Love: A Novel (Sweetest Taboo Series)

Time After Time, the final book of the series, will be released December 2013! 

(Review) Furmaid by Julia Dweck

Title: Furmaid
Author: Julia Dweck
Format: Kindle

Genre: Children's

Description:

 “Not another mermaid story,” little Minnow wails, as Mama minnow tucks him into his coral bed. Readers will learn that this is no ordinary mermaid tale. This mermaid’s “tale” is quite extraordinary. Readers will delight in the bold and colorful illustrations and tender story line. Swim along with Finnoor on her very first enchanting underwater adventure

Emma's Review 

5 Stars

 My daughter loves to read. So when I saw this was free I grabbed it up. As soon as I told her I had a new book on the Kindle for her, she couldn't wait to dive in. She loved the story. I asked her to tell me a few words that would say how she feels about the overall story and these are her words: interesting, fantastic, and I didn't want to stop reading. She loves the pictures, especially the beautiful mermaids and the cute little minnow.

Therefore from her reaction and her wanting to read this story again, I say it's worth each star I gave.

(Review) Home For Love (An Adult Contemporary Novel) by Aneesa Price

Title: Home for Love
Author: Anessa Price
Format: Kindle

Description:

Seven years ago sexy Bree fled Devil's Peak, Alaska, disillusioned with her high school romance and with a baby in her belly. Now, she's back and seeing devilishly handsome Todd again challenges her carefully constructed plans for amicable co-parenting.

Todd's delight at Bree's return swiftly turns to disgust when he discovers her secret and he vows to keep her at arm's length. Upon discovering the context behind her secreting their child, he decides to give their daughter the love and stable family home he never knew. Despite her attraction to Todd, Bree has no interest in rekindling their relationship and is focused on settling into the town.

But the town and its match-making busy-bodies are not willing to allow the lovers to remain apart and test their resolve in a series of planned misadventures.
Bree is home for good but will she be home for love?

My Review

***** (5 stars)

 
Where to start with this one? The author created an amazing read that I very much enjoyed. I fell in love with this story and I'm so glad I decided to read it. The cover had me second guessing my decision because I'm not one for an overly romantic story. Since the title includes "contemporary romance" I gave it a try. I'm very happy that I did.

The plot runs smoothly and the characters are very lovable. Bree is the main character who moves back home to Alaska to be with her family and introduce her daughter, Amber to her father Todd. Todd has no idea of Amber's existence until Bree moves back home after six years. I love how Todd steps up to the plate and fathers Amber the best he can. The relationship that grows quickly between Amber and her father is very heartwarming.

Bree and Todd gets off to a rocky start after a morning of hurtful words are said. After reading this scene it showed me that each character has their own flaw and their not perfect, which I love. Although I guessed the ending, I very much enjoyed the read. There's a part of me that wishes it was a bit longer so I could see a bit more into their lives but every story that has a happy ending needs to end somewhere.

I strongly recommend this book to those who love a touch of love in their romances without it going overboard.

(Review) Within the Shadows and Escaping Shadows by J.A. Lynch

Double Review featuring

Within the Shadows & Escaping the Shadows 

by

J.A. Lynch

Book Number One: Within the Shadows

Title: Within the Shadows

Author: J.A. Lynch

Pages: 205

Format:  Kindle

Description:

 Living on the razors edge, Giselle Burgman's life is torn apart by her cheating boyfriend. Little does she realize that he is the least of her worries when her long term friend Alex introduces her to his family and a new, darker world. A world of lies, deceit and corruption. Thrown from one problem straight into another, the razors edge gets thinner and sharper, testing Giselle's sanity and vitality. Not even she can hide when living within the shadows.

My Review ( ***) 3 stars

Giselle, a young teen, is ripped from the life she knows and thrown into a world of crazy and manipulative vampires. What's even more crazy? She wasn't given a choice in the matter. Her journey into this new world leaves me with mixed emotions. Giselle is very smart mouthed but easy to persuade. She's very submissive. She seemed very immature for an eighteen year old but the events that happen to her make it some what understandable.

The book gives a new look on vampires. I wish the story went more into depth about the new vampires and their uniqueness. I didn't like how Alex, the guy who was supposed to be Giselle's best friend, so suddenly turned on her. He forced her into being a half vampire, half human with manipulation. Then he dragged her off into this new world where it seemed like everyone hated her. The vampires then forced her to marry Alex for their own secret plan of getting her pregnant. At times I was confused with Giselle because she came off that she cared for her unborn child, yet at others it seemed like she didn't. Sleep and food wasn't something she wanted very often. When tempted with a bed or food, she acted childish and refused.

I found it hard to believe that even an eighteen year old under so much stress would so easy give themselves away to three different guys in a very short amount of time. She looses her virginity with the first and it seems like a few pages later she's having sex with her human boyfriend and then almost directly after she has sex with Alex's father. I must say that really weirded me out. I don't care how much stress I'm under... I don't think I could give in to having sex that quickly.

The story seems very fast paced and I'm not sure how I liked that. It seemed like once I finally wrapped my head around what was going on... boom.. something else happens. I don't feel I could connect with any of the characters because they all seemed to have their own plan. Each one, except two characters, treated Giselle like a person. 

I did enjoy the over all plot with the idea of new vampires needing a human to birth their offspring for some unexplained reason... or should I say to me it wasn't clear. I am under the impression they want Giselle's baby to be the leader of the dark (shadows) or something. 

I do plan on reading the next book within this series to see if some of my confusion is cleared up. 

Book Two: Escaping the Shadows

Title: Escaping Shadows

Author: J.A. Lynch

Pages: 207

Format:  Kindle

Description:

Giselle has barely had time to accept her new life, never mind the prospect of motherhood, but she finds herself, yet again thrown into chaos, only this time there is more than just her life at stake.
With vampires and shadow creatures vying for her life, can Giselle escape the darkness consuming her, or will she finally descend into the world of shadows?

My Review

**** (4 Stars)

The second book within the Shadow World is (in my opinion) much better then the first. The author starts this book right where she left off in the second. The plot was interesting and at times hard to guess what was going to happen. This book is very well written and pulls the reader in.

I did find some places where I knew what was about to happen but this is in just about every book you read. The characters are more likable within this book. Giselle seems a bit more grown up and ready to accept that her world has changed. She embraces this new world with her son and is ready to fight when the time comes. I found myself able to feel for Giselle more during her pregnancy in this book then what I did in the first.

The author did throw in a twist that I did not see coming. Marc and his world changes. I thought it would go a different way then it did but I actually think I like the way the author took it over what I had guessed.

I'm definitely curious to see what happens and will be adding on the next book to my list. I recommend this book to those who like vampires with a little twist.
 

(Review) Baby by J.K. Accinni

Title: Baby
Author: J.K. Accinni
Format: Paperback
Pages: 147

Description:

A deeper, darker E.T. A tear jerker featuring the love of an alien creature and the lives he touches.

The series "Species Intervention #6609" spans two hundred years, encompassing tender love between divergent species, political downfalls and violence of unspeakable order. It is an unfortunate tale of Armageddon and the despairing hope of redemption.

In Baby, Netty is a naive teenage farm girl given in marriage to an older brutal opportunist disguised as a successful citizen during the years of Prohibition in Sussex County, New Jersey. After years of enslavement, Netty flees into the night from her rapist husband, traveling back to the farm worked by her parents, where she rescues an unfamiliar damaged creature she finds in a cave in the woods of her childhood, falling in love with the enigmatic creature she names Baby. Together they find happiness and fulfillment despite the changes to Netty's body wrought by the proximity of the unusual creature.

When a handsome Italian stranger comes into Netty's life, complications ensue as she falls in love while trying to hide the bizarre and wondrous changes to her farm and her body. Netty, Baby and Wil strive to conquer obstacles thrown in their path by life, succeeding wildly until the heart-rending and astonishingly brutal climax to their story.

Review

 **** (4 Stars)

When I got Baby, I wasn't sure if I would like it because of the cover art. I'm really not one for a Sci-Fi type book. As I began reading I felt pain for Netty because of her life as a slave to her husband. As the book progressed and Baby was introduced, I loved the little guy for cheering up Netty and the same with Wil when he came into the story.

The plot was well thought out but I had a little bit of a hard time connecting with the characters. There were times I had difficult following along because of the different writing styles I came across within the book. I did enjoy the plot because it's unique. Baby takes the reader on a journey where love, pain, and happiness are abundant.

I enjoyed reading Baby and finished it quicker than I thought I would. I suggest giving Baby a try because it's easy to enjoy after putting aside the issues within the plot and characters. I plan on reading Echo, the second book within this series next. I recommend giving this one a try.

(Review) The Life We Dream by JH Glaze

Title: The Life We Dream
Author: JH Glaze
Format: Kindle

Description:

True Love Is Forever.

From critically acclaimed author J. H. Glaze comes a touching tale of lost love and rediscovery.

When Jack Bailey receives a call from an old friend, he discovers that the girl he has loved for most of his life is in hospice and only has a short time to live.

Through his memories, we come to understand the depth of his passion and why this love could never be forgotten.

Come with Jack as he travels to see her one last time in this bittersweet tale of undying love. You may soon begin to believe that anything is possible in 'The Life We Dream'.

This story is a departure from the Horror/Thriller genres for J.H. Glaze and explores the author's views on the enduring aspects of true love.

About the Author

 JH Glaze is the author of the popular "The Paranormal Adventures of John Hazard" series, "The Horror Challenge" series, and many other novellas and short stories. He lives with his wife and dogs in Atlanta, Georgia.

My Review

Here at The Writing World, I am a fan of the very talented author JH Glaze who normally writes within the Horror/Suspense Genre. When I learned he wrote a romance novella, I had to purchase it. I needed to see how an author that normally writes in such a dramatic and sometimes gorry genre would pull off the romantic side of things.

I am so happy that I gave this book a chance. When I first began reading, I wasn't sure what to expect because I hardly ever read a books description. I like the journey the author has planned for me to be unexpected.

The plot was hard for me to guess and the characters are very likeable. The main character Jack finds out his childhood love is dying from cancer. He packs up and plans a one last visit to her so he can see her just one last time.

I must say that this is definitely one that I didn't expect Mr. Glaze to write. It's very different from his normal books. This story is short but very sweet. It will make the reader appreciate more about their life. This story is sad but has a happy tone all at one time. I have mixed feeling as I finished it. The ending is very emotional.

I recommend this book to anyone who likes love stories where you can't guess the ending. As well as anyone looking for a quick read. It's well worth it.

Feedback on Silenced

I wanted to share with you some of the reviews I got from Silenced. I'm so proud and excited to have this type of feedback.

5 star review: "I have gone through depression most of my life, I have never been able to put into words the feelings that I feel every day of my life. The beautiful Miss Raebeth did that for me. I could not believe my eyes as I read Amber's feelings and the darkness that enveloped her I literally had tears rolling down my cheeks. I am actually going to take this book w

ith me to my next therapist appointment, I have each page marked on a piece of paper so I can easily look it up while talking, and I will FINALLY be able to express in words how I feel inside. I have never resorted to cutting as Amber did but I totally understand the release that it gave her.

I got more and more mad at her mother as the story went on, the bold out right lies were atrocious! I was on the edge of my seat and unfortunately I am STILL on the edge of my seat! I want more! I cannot wait to see what happens in the upcoming books. I pray they come out soon because I am hanging by a thread just as I was hanging by Raebeths every word!

I would recommend this book to anyone with children/teenagers whether you think they might be depressed or not, or family members/friends that might be going through difficult times because this truly gives a great perspective into the mind of someone who might have the same feelings as Amber did throughout the book. at the end of the book I was SHOCKED! everything is going so great for Amber and then.....AAAHHH!!!

Great job Raebeth! I, as said before, cannot wait for the next book!" - Jessica S.

 

 5 star review
was excited to read this book as it was given to me for an honest review, and I could tell by reading about the book that I have not read anything else like it before. I was not disappointed after I got into the book. Amber's journey starts out with a move to a new home, learning that a truth she has known all her life turns out to be a lie, she starts cutting

herself for release. Everything that she feels as a reader I could feel, the descriptions of the scenes in the book were amazingly well written.

As I took the journey through Amber's eyes, I wanted to know more about her, about her life in general and more about the lie she's lived with all her life. Finding out the truth at a time when she did, caused Amber to spiral down into the darkness, depression sets in and she starts cutting for release. At this point I wanted to reach into the story and help her as I would with anyone whom I know in real life. She becomes friends with a few from her new school and things start to look up for Amber, her friend Casey is like a new sister to her. She also meets Landon and hits it off pretty well, he turns out to be her rock, something she can look forward too and this helps her to keep from cutting so much.

The author ends on a note that has me curious, wondering what is to come and wanting to know more. I can't help it author's all have a tendency to do this to readers, some more than others. As I finished Silenced (Silenced Series) all I kept thinking about is what's next, I want to read on. And that my dear readers is what every reader wants in a book, any book they read. ♥ You Raebeth, be sure to let me know when I can expect your next book! - Julia Hendrix

 

 

 
"I was gifted a copy of this book by the author. This is a deep look into Amber's life. Amber is a troubled teen who finds out the man she calls dad is actually her step father. After finding this out the family moves into a new town for her senior year. Amber meets Casey who quickly becomes her only friend. Casey is also troubled and can

easily relate to Amber. Amber's life turns around after meeting Landon and quickly falls in love with him. This story is full of shocking events but gives you a great view into the life of a cutter. I can't wait to read the next book, the cliff hanger at the end still has me shocked!" - Lauren Alumbaugh (5 stars)