A Plain Disappearance Book Review

I need to preface this review with some personal words to you, my loyal blog-readers.  Life sometimes throws you a curve ball.  And sometimes life gives you lemons.  But, over the summer, life gave me a lot more than that.  I'm sorry I haven't blogged regularly and left you wondering which new book to grab off the shelf.  So, here's to you my friends...

Book Review of A Plain Disappearancce

  by Amanda Flower
"An Appleseed Creek Mystery, Book 3"

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

   It's Christmastime in Amish Country!  Since this is the third installment of the series, we see Chloe Humphrey's settling into her new life at Appleseed Creek.  Of course, in Amanda Flower fashion, there is a murder in the Amish community, and it's Chloe's task to help solve it.  You will see the return of some of your favorite character's from the past books and find new ones that you will love. 
    I really enjoyed reading this book, and soaking up all the coziness of the Amish and a good murder mystery.  Flower's characters are well thought out and her stories are simple to read and down to earth.  You will get a glimpse inside Amish Country and find out they really aren't so simple after all.  You will find a dollop of romance, and the security of a best friend relationship.  This book is well-rounded and enjoyable.  I suggest this book for women readers 14 years old and up.  Once you pick it up, I don't think you will put it down until you know "whodunit." 

(I received this book free from Handlebar Central as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter.... 

Beauty By The Book, For Teens by Laurie Cole

Frame 232 by Wil Mara 

Blessed Child by Ted Dekker

Fatal Tide Book Review

 

Book Review of Fatal Tide

  by Lis Wiehl with Pete Nelson
"An East Salem Novel, Book 3"

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    It's here!  The final installment of the East Salem series.  The book picks up with the Saint Adrian boys being commissioned all over the world to infect the Earth's water supply with a drug that will cause chaos and inevitable death.  It's up to Tommy, Dani, Quinn, Aunt Ruth, Cassandra and others to do their best to save the world from inescapable destruction.  With the help of the angels, Charlie and Ben (seen in book 2), it all comes down to the final moments before it's too late. 
    The pros: Wiehl always does an excellent job of character development.  This book is full of action, as usual. 
    The cons: Wiehl fails to include God in her series.  He's a after-thought when the angels appear.  In my opinion, there's too much of the evil side, and not enough of a higher power prevailing until the very end. 
    Will I keep reading Lis Wiehl's offerings?  Absolutely.  Any time she rights about murder and thrilling substance,  I'm going to read it.  (See Triple Threat Series and Mia Quinn Mysteries)  I enjoyed this series, but think it could have been better.  I hope in the future Wiehl sticks with what she knows and writes a lot more of that. 

(I received this book free from booksneeze.com as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

Beauty By The Book, For Teens by Laurie Cole

A Plain Disappearance by Amanda Flower

Frame 232 by Wil Mara 

Blessed Child by Ted Dekker

Think 4:8 Book Review

 

Book Review of Think 4:8

  by Tommy Newberry
"40 Days To A Joy-Filled Life For Teens"

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    Yes! Yes! Yes!  It is high time someone wrote this book!  This has to be the most inspirational book for teens I have ever had the pleasure of reading.  It is truly a catalyst for a better generation.  I cannot wait to present this book to my youth girls small group.  It's a 40 day guide to get over self-loathing, entitlement, and unhelpful thoughts.  This book will catapult your mind into choosing joy in EVERY situation; and candidly living a joy-filled life.  Each day takes about 10 minutes to read the down-to-earth article.  Then, you are asked to "work it" with a quick interactive lesson every day.  Next up, comes "talk it", which encourages teens to live it and apply it to their daily living.  Third, is the best part - the sticky note!  You made a sticky note each day that gives you a reminder on living joyfully.  Some of my favorite one's are - "I am a sponge."  "I am a rat-free zone."  "I am a builder."  Lastly, comes "pray it", which gives a short, yet treasure-filled prayer.  Some topics covered are:

• joy of perspective
• joy of goals
• joy of appreciation
• joy of purity
• joy of excellent work

The list goes on and on with 40 relevant and strong topics that this generation of teens really needs.  I found myself incredibly blessed by this book; and look for ways to flex my new joy muscles.  Grab this book for kids and teens 12 and up.  This is also an excellent book for a evening quick devo with the family.  If I recommend any book this year, THIS IS THE NUMBER ONE PICK.  Absolutely do not miss out on this for your teens. 

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

Beauty By The Book, For Teens by Laurie Cole

Fatal Tide by Lis Wiehl

Frame 232 by Wil Mara

The Other Side of The River Book Review

Book Review of The Other Side of The River

  by Robert D. Halpert, MD

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    This book is a glimpse into the life of Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson.  He's widely looked at as a brave, albeit eccentric military leader.  Yet, the author chooses not to brush aside the strong role that Jackson's spiritual life had on him and the country.  Even when our nation was at its most dire hour of crisis during the Civil War, the steadfastness and resolution of Lieutenant General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson will incite your own personal resolve.
     If you enjoy historical works, you will probably relish this book.  I felt the beginning was quite slow, and somewhat devoid of enthusiasm Though, it was still a strong book on many levels.  I think it would be very important for a potential reader to have some simple knowledge of our nation's history and what led to the Civil War. The author is throwing you right in to the middle of a national watershed, moments before the emergence of war.  Some historical knowledge would be a plus to the reader.  I do believe the average student would be lost with this book.  However, this would be an exceptional book for a high school / college student to use as a supplement to the study of the Civil War or Stonewall Jackson. 

(I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

Beauty By The Book, For Teens by Laurie Cole

Think 4:8 by Tommy Newberry 

Fatal Tide by Lis Wiehl

Want To Self Publish?

Should you self-publish your book?

How to get the book that’s “in you” out to the world...

You’ve got a book in you—you’re sure of it. Whether it’s an amazing story, or solid expert advice, you know others would benefit from the book you’re already writing in your head.
So, what is the best way for you to go about getting this book out to the masses? You’ve got a few options; we’ll walk you through them here.

Traditional Publishing
Getting your book published has never been tougher—if you go the traditional royalty publisher route. Traditional, or “royalty” publishing, works like this: you (or more accurately, your literary agent) queries a publishing company with a book proposal. If the publisher “buys” your book, they’ll offer you an advance (sometimes) and a small cut of the book sales proceeds. In return, they’ll edit the book, cover the costs of production (including the cover), printing, and so forth. But this also gives them editorial control and more sway in your brand management. The publisher handles distribution—getting your book into stores and online sellers—and book promotion, handling some marketing, but leaving a larger chunk to you than you might expect.

Self-Publishing
Self-publishing is a risk you, the author, take on in full. You can expect to pay all publishing costs: editing, design, printing, marketing, advertising and distribution. Because of this, you also have control of the product: you have final say on the cover, the content, and marketing plan. Once the expenses are paid, the author receives the profits from sales. The risk to you is greater, but so is the reward.

Self-publishing, as the name implies, can be a lonely job—you are on your own, often being funneled through a cookie-cutter type system. You’re doing it all by yourself. You’ll learn by making mistakes, and some of those “lessons” can be expensive. You may just want to write, but a self-published author also serves as business manager, brand manager, and more.

Self-Publishing with an Experienced Team
There is a third option in the new world of publishing: you can self-publish with a team.
Hiring a team of publishing professionals can make the self-publishing process much easier, less lonely, and increase the quality of your end product greatly.
You’ll also avoid costly mistakes by relying on the book professionals’ expertise. And you’ll be able to hand off much of the “book business” tasks so that you can focus on being an author—while still retaining control of content and the overall process.

Working with a self-publishing team like Kickstand Books is like hiring a personal concierge when exploring a new area. Having traveled this way before, this team can steer you in the right direction, help you make good choices, and take care of details that you, the author, might prefer not to handle. The team at Kickstand prides itself on the white glove service offered to each author, creating quality products every time including top design, printer negotiations, and more behind-the-scenes tasks most authors would prefer to leave to someone else.

Self-publishing can be a challenging yet gratifying option for authors, especially when they have a team of professionals working with them.

Leave a comment: If you’ve published a book, tell us about your experience. What worked, what didn’t? What did you learn? If you’re thinking of writing a book, do you plan to self-publish it? Why or why not?

Afloat Book Review

Book Review of Afloat

  by Erin Healy

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    Page turning adventure coming your way!  Best selling author, Erin Healy, does it again with her latest book, Afloat.  Right from the beginning the waters begin to rise on the shores of Eagle's Talon, the floating homes and masterpiece of Vance Nolan.  Once the flooding starts, everything falls apart, literally.  From death, to a chemical catastrophe, volcano eruption, betrayal, angels and a little romance intermingled, this book offers a plethora to the adventure reader.  I very much savored this little read.  It really never took a lull; and truly surprised me with it's twists now and again.  It's an effortless read, reminiscent of the work of Beth Webb Hart.  You'll fall fast for Vance Nolan, find that you relate to Danielle Clement, and loathe Tony Dean.  For moments you will wish you lived at Eagle's Talon and quickly want to flee.  I recommend this book to teens and adults (at least 14 years old - due to the nature of Tony and Danielle's relationship). Procure a copy for yourself and be glad you did. 

(I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer.... 

Beauty By The Book, For Teens by Laurie Cole

Think 4:8 by Tommy Newberry 

The Other Side of the River by Robert D Halpert, MD

So Long, Insecurity (teen edition) Book Review

Book Review of So Long, Insecurity

teen edition

  by Beth Moore

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    Acclaimed author, Beth Moore, steps out with something different with a teen edition of best selling book So Long, Insecurity.  Moore has not only hit all realms of insecurity teens deal with, but has jam packed this edition for teen girls with so many goodies ....
    - Everything is backed up with Scripture!
    - The entire book is full color with photographs and bright excitement - just as teens like it.
    - There are tons of interviews with real teen girls.
    - Quizzes!  Every girl loves a quiz.
    - Each chapter has a woman from the Bible that dealt with the same insecurities.
    - There are interviews with women that have gone through insecurity - even a Victoria Secret model.
    - Each chapter has a "Chat About It" section for small groups.
    - The book wraps up with a "Prayer of Security" and a call to salvation. 

    I'm ecstatic over this book, as was my 13 year old daughter.  This is definitely a rare jewel in the cosmos of books for teens. I will be presenting this book to our Youth Pastor for consideration as a teen girl small group study.
    I dealt with insecurity this week - which blindsided me, since I generally am a confident women.  In a freak accident last week my left ring finger was severed.  A wonderful ER doctor  stitched me all back together and sent me home.  Needless to say, my finger doesn't look like it once did it's in glory days.  I'm dealing with embarrassment and sadness over the loss of a "beautiful finger".  I found myself worried about what other people would think of my ugly, misshapen hand.  Stuffing those feelings away and putting on a joyful smile only lasts so long.  During my perusing of this book, I stumbled upon these scriptures - "...give your bodies to God because of all He has done for you.  Let them be a living sacrifice - the kind He finds acceptable..." (Romans 12:1)  "She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future." (Proverbs 31:25)  "Your Royal Husband delights in your beauty; honor Him, for He is your Lord." (Psalm 45:11)  Such simplicity, yet so deeply meaningful in my moments of weakness and insecurity.  No matter if you are a teen or a woman, God's Word doesn't change, and it's for all of us.  I completely recommend this book for girls 13 and up.  This would be a perfect Mom/Daughter study, a teen help book, or  a small group study for teen girls. 

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer.... 

Afloat by Erin Healy

Beauty By The Book, For Teens by Laurie Cole

Think 4:8 by Tommy Newberry

The Point Book Review

Book Review of The Point

"The Redemption of Oban Ironbout"

  by William E. Jefferson

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     This is a fiction book based in Estillyen - "a distant harbor known for bringing ancient words of worth to the present."  Hollie and Goodwin Macbreeze are going there for just that.  They set off looking for serenity and motivation.  They unexpectedly become spliced into the life of Oban Ironbout - Estillyen's reclusive mystery.  The Macbreeze's visit a monastery where they listen to readings - which are then interspersed throughout the book.  These reading's illuminate the Bible and bring it to life for a present audience.
    Hmmmmm....where to begin here.  Let's start with the pros.  This book is compelling and is clearly written by a great Bible scholar and brilliant storyteller.  Jefferson seamlessly brings fiction and the Bible together for a demanding read.  My cons are as follows - I don't have the time and brain power at this season of my life to enjoy this book.  Right now my life is calling for easy reads (thrillers, autobiographies and the like) that I can read in the evening after 8-10 hours of serious expulsion of brain energy.   I think this book would be really superb for someone looking for something deeper - something with actual meat and meaning (unlike 90% of books today).  You really need to ponder your reading in this book - and it makes sense to have your mind 100% open when you read it.  The book is phenomenal, just not for a tired person that is looking for a relaxing novel.  I recommend this for high school students that need  some lesson in deep thinking.  I also believe that most adults with time for study would thoroughly enjoy this book.

   

(I received this book free from Handlebar Marketing as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer.... 
Afloat by Erin Healy

So Long Insecurity, For Teens by Beth Moore 

Beauty By The Book, For Teens by Laurie Cole
 

Captive In Iran Book Review

Book Review of Captive In Iran

  by Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amirizadeh

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     I'm getting straight to the point with this book.  This is an absolute must read for the American population.  If you have never been to Iran, you've never experienced the atrocities of a communist country.  If you don't agree with their regime, you are imprisoned or even worse.  This story follows the real lives of Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amirizadeh - underground Christian's in Iran.  These women spent the early parts of their adulthood spreading Christ throughout Tehran and the surrounding area.  Eventually they were found out and immediately imprisoned as apostates of Iran.  But, what a blessing that turned out to be!  Even though torture, starvation, humiliation and sickness, the Evin prison turned into be a evangelizing arena.  These two ladies brought hope, joy and life back into the women they shared captivity with.  You will be completely inspired by these women facing martyrdom.  They stood in the face of certain execution with class, faith, hope, honor and steadfastness without blinking an eye.  They clung to Christ and filled the Evin prison with His glory and majesty.  Never have I read of women that were so complete in their dedication to Jesus.  I highly recommend this book for anyone ages 14 and up.  (Note: The book refers to sexual lesbian relationships that happen inside the prison, and may not be suited for an immature reader.)  Watch the video below for a inside look at their lives in a one on one interview.

   

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer.... 
Afloat by Erin Healy

The Point by William Jefferson

Stress Test Book Review

Book Review of Stress Test

  by Richard L. Mabry, M.D.

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     "THEY MAY NOT HAVE ENOUGH EVIDENCE TO CONVICT HIM, BUT THEY HAVE ENOUGH TO RUIN HIS LIFE.  Dr. Matt Newman thought he was leaving his life as a surgeon in private practice for a better one in academic medicine. But the kidnappers who attacked him as he left the hospital at 2 a.m. have no such plans—they just want him dead. Bound and in the trunk of his car, Matt’s only thought is fleeing with his life. He does escape, but at a price: a head injury that lands him in the ICU . . . where he awakens to discover he’s being charged with murder."
     I was really torn on what to write in my review for this book.  Although, I liked the book as a whole, it really didn't have much meat.  It was very basic and bland without much character development, nor depth.  It's a quick read for those who would like some light entertainment on an airplane.  Don't expect major twists or development in this thriller - just your meat-and-potatoes good book.       

   

(I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer....

Captive In Iran by Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amirizadeh

Afloat by Erin Healy

The Point by William Jefferson

Bread & Wine Book Review

Book Review of Bread & Wine

  by Shauna Niequist
"a love letter to life around the table, with recipes"

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     Here's the third offering from acclaimed author, Shauna Niequist.   Her entire premise for writing this book was to inspire and encourage the reader to "gather the people you love around your table to eat and drink, to tell stories, to be heard and fed and nourished on every level." Niequist's trademark is her smart and witty writing about family, friendship and life around the table.
     I love every single word in this book, and am finding joy in making each recipe.  Niequist is extremely candid and real.  She talks about things that make you feel like you have been best friends for years and years - the constant worry about weight, noteworthy friendships and an exceptional love of eating and all things foodie.  All women will love this book and treasure it's wonderful words.  You will be motivated to travel, taste new things, cook new things, invite guests for dinner and just love people and be with them.
     The book totally broke my hermit-like shell.  I rarely cook for people outside of my family.  Not that I don't love to cook or know how to cook - I'm married to a chef for Pete's sake!  I just have this underlying insecurity about not being able to please "other" people with my food.  I try new recipes all the time, cook from scratch every day and try hard things.  But, the constant need to be right and perfect has gotten in the way of opening my home and arms to other people through food.  This book changed all of that.  Halfway through, I learned a dear friend was sick.  I ventured out of my comfort zone - way out!  I whipped up a batch of homemade tortilla soup (with flair) and a dish of Shauna Niequist's Blueberry Crisp.  I delivered it with shaking hands and trepidation.  Much to my amazement and enjoyment, it was a hit.  I was thanked profusely and it warmed by heart that I warmed someone's belly.  It's addictive and a must!  Try this book.  There is even a cooking club syllabus in the back.  Be blessed!

   

(I received this book free from Handlebar Publishing as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer....

Captive In Iran by Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amirizadeh

Stress Test by Richard Mabry

North of Hope Book Review

Book Review of North of Hope

  by Shannon Huffman Polson

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     This is something new on the shelves April 9 from Shannon Polson.  She's a writer that loves high adventure sports and is an ex-Army attack helicopter pilot.  She also touts multiple degrees and expertise in many fields, as well as singing with the critically acclaimed Seattle Pro Musica.  This book is a memoir that covers Huffman's healing journey through the Acrtic in Alaska.  She is the daughter of parents who were killed by a grizzly in Alaska's remote Arctic.  She retraces the fateful journey her parents died on to find the cure for her hopelessness and grieving spirit.  The book largely covers the human search for meaning with the face of calamity. 
    I will tell  you up front that I did not enjoy this book.  Although Polson is a vivid and creative writer, this was the most self-loathing, depressing, egomaniacal book I have ever read.  I understand that loosing your parents is very difficult, and can be sudden and blind-siding.  But, sixteen chapters of listening to someone whine and despair is more than I can tolerate.  You can tell that the author, at the time of the tragedy, was single with no children.  No wife and mother that I know would have the time or selfishness to stop their lives and fall into a downward spiral of depressive and mercenary living.  If you want to read a book about depression and sadness, then grab this one quick.  I just wanted to shake the author and say, "It's been years, move on!"  If she was this over-the-top disconsolate about her parents death, what would happen to this poor woman in the death of her now spouse and children.  I don't recommend this book to anyone for any reason.  Although, if you'd like to find out about the Arctic in Alaska, there is history, geology and anthropology here, but it's not comprehensive.  I suggest visiting a library for that. 

   

(I received this book free from Handlebar Publishing as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Spring....

Captive In Iran by Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amirizadeh

Stress Test by Richard Mabry

Bread and Wine by Shauna Niequist 

A Matter of Trust Book Review

Book Review of A Matter of Trust

  by Lis Wiehl

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     Here's a new offering by best loved author, Lis Wiehl, whom you've seen a lot of on here over the past few years.  This new series she's started is called the Mia Quinn Mysteries, based around Mia Quinn, Seattle prosecutor.  It's unknown at this time if there will be other novels in this series and how many.   Mia Quinn is based after Lis Wiehl's own life - being a full-time legal professional and single mom; even taking place in Wiehl's hometown of Seattle. 

     As with most of Wiehl's books, in true fashion, this one opens with a bang.  Literally.  Mia Quinn overhears her best friend being shot over the phone.  It's Mia Quinn's appointed job to solve the case, which turns out to be difficult.  This premise is actually loosely based on the actual murder of a federal prosecutor, whose case is still unsolved to this day.

    Mia Quinn is a character any Mom can relate to.  She's trying to juggle it all and sometimes that doesn't work out as planned. In this case, she's recently widowed, back to work, with a pile of debt, a preschooler and a teenager.  Then to top it off, she's asked to solve the case of her best friends murder.  Talk about a lot of balls in the air.  But, in my opinion, this book wasn't nearly as riveting or exciting as the previous ones.  It's possible that this novel was to introduce us to Mia Quinn, and that there are possibly many more to come.  The book starts of with fascination and charge, but slows down incredibly less than half way through. Still, I recommend it, since Wiehl still pleases with unforeseen twists and turns.  I do hope that we see this character again and that she's on another captivating case.  This book also touches on the growing problem of cyber-bullying, and a teenage suicide that is the result of it.  I suggest this read for anyone that enjoys a good mystery - age 14 and up. 

   

(I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Spring....

North of Hope by Shannon Huffman Polson

Stress Test by Richard Mabry

Captive In Iran by Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amirizadeh

Moon Over Edisto Book Review

Book Review of  Moon Over Edisto

  by Beth Webb Hart

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     This is certainly not the first offering from Beth Webb Hart, who boasts five published novels in her collection.  Moon Over Edisto must be close to her heart since it takes place in her homestate of South Carolina.  In the book we quickly meet up with Julia, our well-rounded and easy to relate to leading lady.  Julia is plagued with unhappiness and has lost the zest that comes with a joyful life.  But, she really doesn't realize it.  Her own father ran off with her best friend twenty years before; and she's still in the trench of bitterness with morose attitude toward family.  She hasn't returned to the place of the betrayal in over two centuries and tries to move past it in New York as an accomplished artist.  Suprisingly, the "best friend" shows up at her door all these years later with a wild and unfathomable request.  What that request is, I won't divulge.  You'll have to read it to find out.
     This is an excellent read.  First and foremost, Hart's depiction of the South Carolina coast is breathtaking and will transport you right to Edisto Island.  Her writing stirs within you that homesickness for something in your busy life that is missing - a tranquil place of longing and home.  Hart evokes such visions of the East Coast that I want to plan my next family trip to this very island.  I need to see Store Creek, the salt marsh, and take a ride down Peters Point Creek Road.  Rarely, even scarcely, do you come across a modern author that can bring a place alive like Hart has.  I feel like I know these people, really know them.  The story and twists are remarkable and should not be missed.  I endorse those book for woman, 14 and up.  Forgiveness, Southern charm, and amazing lowcountry food are crammed into these pages.  Take a peak of sunset at Edisto Island below. 

(I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter....

Captive In Iran by Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amirizadeh

 

 

Les Miserables Audio Drama Review

Audio Drama Review of Les Miserables
by Victor Hugo

  performed by Focus on the Family Radio Theater

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead
 

I decided to check out this edition of famed drama Les Miserables for a road trip from Houston to New Orleans.  At the time, I knew little about the story and thought it would be good just to kill some time.  Focus on the Family Radio Theater uses a full cast, cinema sound and an original music score for this delightful rendition.  True to Huge Victor's original masterpiece, this splendid production follows the tale of Jean Valjean as he encounters savage injustice from the law and the gentleness and grace of God.  My family (even my husband) absolutely loved the story of Jean Valjean and the account of redemption, courage and integrity throughout.  Not only is the story a perfect portrayal of godly character for your family, but the audio drama is top notch.  From the music score to the characters, the quality is outstanding.  I highly recommend this story for families - and children 8 and up.  The set comes with three CD's and is 169 minutes long.  Don't miss out on this set for you and your family.  You won't be disappointed.

(I received this audio drama free from Tyndale Blog Network  as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter....

Waking Hours by Lis Wiehl

Moon Over Edisto by Beth Webb Hart

Captive In Iran by Maryam Rostampour, Marziyeh Amirizadeh, Anne Graham Lotz and John Perry