Star Scout Rising First Trail by Gary Darby

 Posted by  Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Apr 012011
 



My love for science fiction started at a very early age.We would come home from school and my big brother was in charge. We had to watch what he wanted to watch, which was Star Trek. Captain Kirk was as much a part of our vocabulary as was Captain Kangaroo. This is why I was excited to receive a brand new science fiction book to review; Star Scout Rising First Trail, book one. Gary Darby is the author of this new trilogy. The world he has created reminded me a lot of the world in Star Trek. I liked the whole premise of an organization called Star Scout Command who try to keep peace in the universe. They are out there looking for new lifeforms and planets.

The main character, Del Baldura, is a junior scout in training. He is trying to make a name for himself, as his father was allegedly a Star Scout turned traitor.He fights many demons inside of himself to prove his own worth. Del is a solid character that I found nothing wrong with him. It was even kind of sweet that he has never been kissed. There is a very tiny romance started in book one between Del and a female Junior star scout, and I really hope things blossom in book two.


This book has many different characters and impressively each have very unique voices. I could picture each one in my mind clearly by the way they were written. Besides Del, one of my favorite characters is Sami, another junior scout in training. He provides the humor needed for this very tension filled book. I made the mistake of reading the book during my lunch time. I kept jumping around and getting so involved with the story I forgot to eat most of my lunch. There are many nail-biting segments that make you want to read this book fast. One of my absolute favorites parts of the book (I don’t want to say too much here and give it away) is where they are sent to explore a new planet and some natural disasters start happening. Some key words to wet your appetite here: earth shifts, volcano line,gaseous geysers,and acidic solution.Gary uses great showing as he describes what is happening here.”Del thought he could actually hear the ground moaning as if in pain from the violent and painful shaking.”I wish that I could share more with you here. but it truly would ruin it for you, the future readers.

Now, the best part of this book is the huge twist at the end. I don’t know why I always miss these things, but I only started to catch on to what was happening as the characters did.

Another thought, I have been reading other reviewers thoughts about this book. Some people commented about how there are several editing mistakes throughout the book. I didn’t notice them and I think it’s because I read so fast. I also get so engrossed in a story that all that I think about is what is happening in the story. This is what I have to say about this, we all live and learn and Gary has been very gracious about all of the feedback sent his way. This is the way of the life of writers; you write, they read, some criticize, you learn, more read and send praise, then you can rejoice.

I recommend this book to all science fiction lovers, those who also like to read fantasy and readers that would like to try a new genre and new author. I am so glad that I read a wide variety of genres. Life is much more interesting if you widen your horizons and try something new. I am excited to read book two in this series. There were many storylines left wide open. I hope some of my questions will be answered, but if they are not, there is always book three to fill the holes for me.

Journey of Honor: A Love Story by Jaclyn M. Hawkes – Blog Tour

 Posted by  Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews, Special Features
Mar 042011
 

  • Paperback: 214 pages
  • Publisher: Granite Publishing & Distribution (August 3, 2010)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1599360594
Disowned, she came to America anyway. Attacked and left pregnant by a vicious mob, she still pressed on. Finally, in spite of being accused of theft by the vilest of her attackers, Giselle tries to remain as upbeat and uncomplaining as a prairie wildflower as she travels on to Zion.Thoroughly disillusioned with the ugliness and cruelty of slavery in the South, Trace Grayson leaves his young medical career to go west, hoping to leave bigotry and hatred behind. He begins taking goods by teamster train to sell in the territories. However, this fourth time across, in July of 1848, he’s stuck in St. Joseph, Missouri, waiting for enough wagons to join the train so that they can leave.Knowing that if they don’t start west soon, they’ll be caught by snow in the mountains, Trace is thrilled when the final wagon signs on. Then, when the beautiful, young Dutch girl traveling with the last wagon is falsely accused of stealing and is detained, the whole trip is jeopardized. Thrown together by circumstance, Trace and Giselle team up to begin to figure out just how to make this epic journey across a continent a success.With a deep sense of honor and an equally strong sense of humor, together they learn to deal with everything except the one trial that neither of them can overcome.

This book is not your typical pioneer story. Even though this is a story based on pioneers heading to Zion and crossing the plains, the book deals more with the characters and their own personal struggles. There are many other facets included in this novel, along with a love story a little bit juicier than those published by the big LDS publishers. Though nothing is vulgar, there is more kissing and snuggling/spooning that a married couple share. There are also some scenes with violent situations.

With the struggles associated with pioneers and their journeys across the plains, there are deaths and struggles portrayed. Along with this, there are many uplifting spiritual experiences that the characters have along the way. LDS principles are discussed and those not familiar with them may be a little lost. I still recommend this book. I truly loved the two main characters Giselle, a member of the LDS church and Trace a non-member. Though they both are proud and don’t always discuss their feelings with each other, they do share a strong love. Both of them are very likable and this story mainly focuses on them and getting to know each other. I also loved Trace’s adopted brother Mose and Giselle’s Grandparents Josiah and Petja. There is a very humorous ongoing sub-story about a Native American brave who “wants” Giselle. I don’t want to tell you more for fear of ruining the plot here.

For those wanting a true historical novel of pioneer journeys may not like this book as much. I classify this book as a romance novel with an LDS historical background. So, you romance lovers will find a great read in Journey of Honor.

Here is the purchase link: http://www.amazon.com/Journey-Honor-Jaclyn-M-Hawkes/dp/1599360594/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1298932933&sr=8-2
I was given a review copy of this book by the publisher. In no way did this influence the review that was given.


My Double Life by Janette Rallison

 Posted by  Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Feb 252011
 

  • Reading level: Young Adult
  • Hardcover: 272 pages
  • Publisher: Putnam Juvenile (May 13, 2010)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0399252622
Her whole life, Alexia Garcia has been told that she looks just like pop star Kari Kingsley, and one day when Alexia’s photo filters through the Internet, she is offered a job to be Kari’s double. This would seem like the opportunity of a lifetime, but Alexia’s mother has always warned her against celebrities.

Rebelliously, Alexia flies off to L.A. and gets immersed in a celebrity life. Not only does she have to get used to getting anything she wants, she romances the hottest lead singer on the charts, and finds out that her own father is a singing legend. Through it all, Alexia must stay true to herself, which is hard to do when you are pretending to be somebody else.


Once again Janette Rallison has delivered a book that all ages will love. My Double Life is a story of a teenage girl who has grown up with very little. Alexia has always been on the “outside” wanting just a little piece of feeling like she fits in. When she is offered the job to be the double for a famous singer, she jumps on it. The underlying story has to do with Alexia not knowing who her father is. Some of the events in the story you could see coming, such as to the identity of her father. The fun part is how this information comes out.

Alexia, the main character, is so easy to like. She is not whiny or self-centered. She is always trying to do the right thing. I recall finishing this book and thinking how I would not hesitate at all to have my daughter read this book. This cannot be said of all books written for teens. One of the main themes learned in My Double Life is that you should be grateful for the life you have. Other people’s lives may seem wonderful and perfect, but behind closed doors everyone has problems.

So, the main things I liked about this book was the humor, life lessons that are there, but not blatantly shoved down your throat, and likable characters. Readers that have read other books
by Janette Rallison will love this one. Those of you that have never read any of her books this is a good one to start with. My favorite book written by Janette is still Just One Wish so check out that one next.


If you would like to learn more about Janette Rallison, go visit her at her website here.

BIO:Janette lives in Chandler, Arizona with her husband, five children and enough cats to classify her as “an eccentric cat lady.” She did not do this on purpose. (The cats, that is; she had the children on purpose.) Every single one of the felines showed up on its own and refuses to leave. Not even the family’s fearless little Westie dog can drive them off.

Since Janette has five children and deadlines to write books, she doesn’t have much time left over for hobbies. But since this is the internet and you can’t actually check up to see if anything on this site is true, let’s just say she enjoys dancing, scuba diving, horse back riding and long talks with Orlando Bloom.

The Upside of Down By Rebecca Talley

 Posted by  Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Feb 182011
 

The Upside of Down

Author: Rebecca Talley

Paperback: 256 pages

Publisher: Cedar Fort, Inc. (January 8, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1599554542

“Hmmm,” the doctor muttered.

Natalie wrinkled her forehead, almost afraid to ask, and said, “What does that mean?”

“You do know you’re pregnant, right?”

Her breath caught in her throat. “Excuse me?”

“You’re pregnant.”

Her heartbeat thundered in her ears. “I’m what?”

Natalie Drake certainly has her hands full raising a large family, dealing with her difficult mother, and maintaining a relationship with her rebellious teenager. Just when things seem to be going smoothly, she finds out another unexpected surprise—she’s going to have a baby. Faced with so many challenges, Natalie must learn to trust in a plan that isn’t what she imagined and discover that every situation has an upside.

I read a lot during the course of the year. I also read a wide variety of genres of books. Every once in awhile you come across a book that truly touches your heart. This kind of book stays with you for a long time. The Upside of Down by Rebecca Talley is just that kind of book. I read this novel several months ago and I still remember how I felt as I read the story of Natalie and her family.

In this novel you get to know the Drake family who have six children and lead a very busy life. Natalie, a stay at home Mom and with a new calling as a Relief Society President, she thinks she can’t take anymore. Mixed in with the crazy everyday things that happen in a family, Rebcecca has included a lot humor. I laughed so many times while reading this book. Some of the things that I found humorous were when she came home and walked into her bedroom and it resembled the aftermath of a tornado. Natalie asks herself, Did she live with humans or pigs? I have felt that way myself. Another example, while sitting in Sacrament Meeting waiting to be sustained as the new Relief Society President, her daughter Laura reaches over and jiggles the back of her arm and says, “You do have Relief Society Arms.” There are so many other things that I could tell you that happen to Natalie, but I don’t want to spoil the fun for you when you read the book. I will say my favorite thing to happen involves Nair. I could not stop laughing!

Along with the humor there are incidences that make you angry and sad. It starts with chapter one when Natalie is with her two youngest at a fast food restaurant. A young family in front of her has a daughter that she notices has Down Syndrome. The father, in front of all the patrons, verbally abuses his daughter calling her a retard. That just made my skin crawl. I also had little patience with Natalie’s mother who continually criticizes her and her choices. Here is one example, “You have more than your fair share to handle here. I’m certainly not going to add to it. One of these days, I hope you wise up.”

To wrap it up, I feel personally that this is the best book that Rebecca Talley has written. She writes Natalie so real and so beautiful. She has one of the hardest challenges of her life when she finds out she is pregnant again. Then she finds out how truly special this child is that is coming into her life. She has to lean on her Heavenly Father, with much prayer, to help her through. Her family also grows closer together as they get ready to welcome this new little angel into their lives. The cover of the book shows so beautifully the heart of this story. I smile every time I look at it. I highly recommend this book to all of the readers that come to this blog; LDS or other denominations.

I interviewed Rebecca Talley, and she so brilliantly answered the questions posed to her.

1. What prompted you to write this book?
I thought it would be fun to write an LDS version of “Cheaper by the Dozen.” Since my 10 kids are constantly doing things like clogging the toilet, calling 911, or giving each other haircuts, I thought I could write what I know. :) Of course, the book is fictionalized but much of it is based on actual experiences in my family.

2. Was this book easier or harder to write than your others?
This book was a bit harder than my other books because it has so much of my heart in it. I recalled some painful real-life experiences to help give the story realism and it was difficult at times to relive them. In fact, I had to stop a few times and step away from it because my memories were too intense.

3. Did you have any input on the cover of your book? It is so beautiful!
I love the cover–makes me want to have a snuggly newborn every time I look at it. I can’t take any credit for the cover. The designers at Cedar Fort are amazing and create incredible covers. I’m very pleased with this cover and hope it piques the interest of potential readers.

4. What book are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a YA paranormal about a young girl who derives her strength and power from her virtue and must use that power to fight demons. I just published an ebook “Hook Me: What to Include in Your First Chapter” on Smashwords. I’m also working on a few more ebooks and outlining a possible series.

5. What is the best advice to give aspiring writers?
The best advice for aspiring authors is to never give up. Also, read, read, read. Write, write, write. Attend conferences, network with other writers, join a critique group, hone your craft. Persistence pays off–I know because I am very persistent.

Thank you so much!! You can read more about Rebecca and her books here at her blog.

I received a review copy from Cedar Fort. In no way did this influence the review given.

Sheila’s Review of The Peasant Queen by Cheri Chesley and Interview With the Author

 Posted by  Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Feb 112011
 

After running away from home, Krystal is transported to a faraway kingdom where an evil tyrant is bent on taking the crown – and Krystal’s hand in marriage. But when she falls in love with the rightful heir to the throne, she must make an impossible choice: sacrifice her one chance at happiness or face the destruction of an entire kingdom.

The Peasant Queen is a book for lovers of romance, and strong women. The main character, Krystal, will not accept someone else deciding her own fate. She takes charge of her life and changes many other lives at the same time. I am getting tired of reading about women that are victims and need a man to rescue them. Yes, I really liked the main character if you couldn’t tell. Author Cheri Chesley also does a fine job developing all of the characters, even the bad guy, King Gregory. The King is very evil, but he also is so intriguing that you have to keep reading to see what he will do next. He is somewhat of a slimy character that makes your skin crawl. It is very easy to like the white knight in shining armor Prince Jareth. The romance is good, though somewhat fast on the part of Krystal . You will understand how Jareth fell in love with Krystal. I think Cheri writes the kissing scenes perfectly; the good and bad ones.

This novel will be well liked by romance lovers, those that love to see women with great inner strength and those who just enjoy a well written book.


I did a short interview with Cheri Chesley. I told her if she didn’t want to answer the questions, then I would just make up something about her. It was funny, but the answers came back rather quickly.

1.Where did the idea of The Peasant Queen come from?

The story came from Krystal. She actually started as a regular girl from our world who got transported magically to another sphere. This is originally–when I was in high school 20 yrs ago. She’s changed a lot since then.

2.Is this your favorite genre to read? Is there another genre that you would like to write?

This was my favorite genre when I was young. And let me tell you, there were precious few books back then in this genre! Since becoming an adult, I have expanded my reading preferences. A while back, I tried writing a kind of romantic suspense. That was fun. I may work on that a bit.


3.Are there any books or authors that influenced you in your writing?

Growing up, I read Tamora Pierce so much I could quote large sections of the books. I also read Guinevere by Sharan Newman. And a lot of Shakespeare and Edgar Allen Poe.


4.Will The Peasant Queen be a trilogy?

There are definitely three books–no more, no less.

5. Who is your favorite character to write in your book and why?

This may sound bad, but I love writing Gregory and it was really hard to stop. He’s a rich character. It’s kind of like when an actor is asked their favorite roles to play. They nearly always say the villain. There’s something to stepping outside yourself that’s appealing.

6.Do you have some words of wisdom to share with unpublished writers?

I don’t know how wise they are, but I’ll go with what works for me. Read a lot. Write a lot, even if you think it’s terrible. Talk to other authors–network. And never, never give up!

Thanks Cheri for answering my questions. I look forward to reading the next book in the trilogy.

You can purchase Peasant Queen Here.


BIO: I am a mom of 5 and a stepmom of 1 and of course all of them are amazing. My first novel, The Peasant Queen, is currently available for sale. And I’m working on The Tyrant King.

I was given a free copy of The Peasant Queen. In no way did this
influence the review given.

I also wanted to remind readers about the contest going on at my personal book review blog. I am giving away a copy of a healthy cookbook called, The Squeaky Gourmet. The contest ends this coming Monday night, Feb. 14th, at midnight MST. So if you haven’t entered yet, come on over to check it out at Why Not Because I Said So.

Lucky Change by Susan Law Corpany

 Posted by  Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Feb 042011
 

Lucky Change

Author: Susan Law Corpany

Publisher: Bonneville Books (Cedar Fort)

Published: 2010

ISBN: 978-1-59955-392-4

FTC FYI: I received a free copy, which in no way influenced my review

After a fluke lottery win, Karen Donaldson – the ward charity case – is determined to use her millions to pay back all the kindness she’s received. But the future holds a few more surprises for Karen, her neighbors, and someone she thought was gone forever. Sweet, funny, and full of heart, this off-beat comedy is perfect for anyone who’s ever dreamed of making it big.

I really loved Lucky Change. This was a unique story of a down on your luck, divorced woman who strikes it rich. Karen, the main character, is a lively and good-hearted woman. She is not like the other women in her ward, who at times have not been too kind to her. This does not stop Karen from wanting to help others and shower them with kindness and money. You can not help but love Karen and her humor. Her outlook on life can’t help but bring a smile to your face. Bishop Parley doesn’t always know what to say in guiding Karen in using her new wealth. Bishop Parley tells Karen to be careful about who she tells about her winning the lottery. Karen let’s him know that she already gave her notice at Smiths that she won’t be working there anymore. This is what she told her co-workers, “I told them I struck it rich and was gonna sit around the rest of my life eatin’ cookie dough. Everybody just laughed. Nobody believed me, even though I had a whole shopping cart full.” You can see just a little of her humor from that, but you have to read the whole story to really get to know her. When you finish the book, you wish that you really did have a good friend like Karen; and not because of the money that she could give you.

I wanted you to know more about how this fantastic book was written. I had the pleasure of interviewing author Susan Law Corpany. She is such a delightful person! Enjoy reading the fun answers that she gave me.

Question #1. When did you get the idea to write “Lucky Change”?….I got the idea for Lucky Change (which I originally called Heaven Help Us!) back in the late nineties when I had a cheap boss in Florida. I was in the sales department, and whenever we had a good month, he would go across the street and buy ten lottery tickets and give one to each member of the team. I would just toss them into my purse and never even check to see if I had won anything. One day I was sitting in church and was looking for a pen and saw all these lottery tickets in the bottom of my purse and I thought about how embarrassing it would be if I actually won big. Then I said to myself, “Lots of ‘poor person with a heart of gold wins the lottery’ stories have been done, but I haven’t ever read a story of an LDS person winning big, someone who isn’t supposed to be buying lottery tickets in the first place.” So there I was, sitting in church, mentally writing that first chapter. Also not good, but that’s how it happened.

Then I remembered Karen, a rather minor character I had created for Unfinished Business, mostly as an example of a poor housekeeper. I remember how I had thought she was an interesting character and that someday she should have her own book. A match was made!

If you would like to read the rest of this interview with Susan please go to my personal book review blog Why Not Because I Said So. Also join me back there on Monday, for a chance to win a copy of a healthy cookbook called The Squeaky Gourmet: Simple..Clean…Food. Whole Food is the Key.

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