Shanda’s Reviews – Page 6 – LDS Women's Book Review

Janitors: Curse of the Broomstaff (#3) by Tyler Whitesides – Blog Tour – Combined Review

Sep 162013

Janitors: Curse of the Broomstaff (#3)

Author: Tyler Whitesides

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published Date: September 10, 2013

Hardcover/Kindle/CD/Audible/DB Bookshelf: 343 pages

Genre: Middle-Grade Fantasy

ISBN# 978-1609076054

Reviewed by: Shanda & Sheila

FTC FYI: free digital review copy in exchange for an honest review

Summary

A secret society of Janitors with wizard-like powers continue their battle, and now, the stakes are even higher. The Bureau of Educational Maintenance is after Alan Zumbro and this time they mean business – deadly business. Spencer, Daisy, and their little team of rebels must find the source of all magical Glop and destroy it before it can destroy the world as we know it. No small task with the BEM and their monster toxites at their heels. It’s a wild and dangerous ride as they follow the trail of clues all the way to the hiding place of the mysterious aurans: guardians of a secret landfill. What they discover there will change the way Spencer sees himself, not to mention the fate of the rebels.

Shanda’s Review

In the Janitors series, Tyler Whitesides has created a magical, adventure-filled world that middle-grade boys and girls will enjoy visiting again and again. With humor and lots of Glopified action, Spencer and Daisy continue to battle threats to education and learn to use even more magical cleaning supplies as they form new alliances and new enemies.

Germaphobe Spencer must deal with an increased level of gross in order to overcome the new challenges facing him and Daisy as they battle the BEM. From a week at an exclusive school to trekking through an expansive landfill, it seems that Spencer and Daisy will never defeat the BEM and find what they seek. They don’t know who to trust when betrayal follows betrayal.

Though this third book is over 300 pages, it reads quickly. The Janitors series is great for 8-12 year olds who love adventure and magic, but parents might enjoy it just as much. There is a fair amount of disgusting (they deal with a lot of garbage after all), and readers are introduced to a fun character who takes trash-obsession to a whole new level.

Spencer experiences some self-discovery about his abilities, as well as learning what Daisy is capable of beyond her sweet, somewhat gullible personality. Even Dez’s character experiences a little growth. I was concerned that in Book 2 (I have the ARC, so this might be different in the final version), Dez bullies Spencer in front of Spencer’s mother (both emotionally and physically by pinching him) and she says nothing while he and Daisy sit there and take it. I wouldn’t want kids to think that if they are bullied and their parents don’t notice or say anything that they should just accept it. There are times, though, that Spencer does stand up to Dez. In Curse of the Broomstaff, Spencer is learning to stand up to Dez more often, and even shows some maturity when he is concerned for Dez’s welfare without subjecting himself to more bullying.

Fans of the first two Janitors books will enjoy Curse of the Broomstaff. I’m curious about how many books are planned for the series, because the story definitely isn’t finished yet. I suspect many young readers are happy to know that there are more Janitors books to come.

Sheila’s Review

Janitors has become one of my favorite Middle Grade series. As a teacher, I’m often asked by students and parents what books/series I recommend they read. Janitors is one that I highly recommend and often do.

There is so much to love about this third book. (I also strongly advise you read the first two books in the series because it will make your read so much more enjoyable.) The main characters, sixth-graders Spencer and Daisy, have grown into their roles as true heroes and rebel fighters. They prove over and over again how much they have learned, and save the day quite often in this book. They are awesome using their magical weapons/tools: flying brooms, Glopified mops,and plungers. The action escalates in book three and is as messy as ever. (This is in reference to the world’s greatest school cafeteria food fight!)

What is truly funny is the message from the author at the beginning of the book.

“Dear Reader,

Here it is: the third installment in the JANITORS series. And I must admit, this is definitely the trashiest book I’ve ever written. No, literally. This book is full of garbage.

This time, our young heroes must venture deep into an enchanted landfill. They will battle heaps of living garbage and hike through distorted trashscapes as they discover a mysterious group of kids living among the refuse, harboring a centuries-old secret that could save the future of education. As you can see, I take garbage very seriously.”

It is so true! Poor Spencer who hates germs and getting dirty has his hands full. I loved all of the new characters and creatures that were introduced. Tyler really hiked up the intensity of the action and suspense. It was also a plus to see more interaction between Spencer and his father Alan. I think they both learned a lot in this adventure about themselves and each other.

As with the other books, the ending leaves you wanting more with Spencer’s new title and mission. What is that title and new mission? I’m not saying anything, except that you need to read Janitors Book 3: Curse of the Broomstaff to find the answer. With engaging and bright characters, beefed-up energy and action, and written especially for elementary age kids, (even though teens and adults will love the books too!) the Janitors series needs to be put on your children’s to-read list today.

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Shadows of Valor by Elsie Park – Blog Tour

Posted by Shanda Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Shanda's Reviews

Sep 102013

Shadows of Valor

Author: Elsie Park

Publisher: Jolly Fish Press

Published Date: September 7, 2013

Hardcover/Paperback/Kindle/Nook: 252 pages

Genre: Historical/Medieval Romance

(PB) ISBN# 978-1-939967-07-7

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free digital uncorrected galley in exchange for an honest review

Summary

On the surface, Graywall is content and booming. Lord Shaufton, who presides over the city, is a fine ruler. The poor are well-cared for, the area is popular, and morale is high—but within Graywall’s roots, something dark is stirring. This darkness threatens to overpower the once-peaceful town, until a mysterious figure appears: The Shadow. 

As much a figure of fear to the unruly as legend to the innocent, The Shadow is an enforcer of justice and aid to the King. Due to an outrageous export tax set by King Edward, smuggling has tainted the kingdom, so The Shadow is sent to hunt the smugglers down. Contrary to legend, The Shadow is simply a man known as Sir Calan who, although talented and just, struggles to keep his dark thoughts of revenge from becoming ruthless action.  

Due to sheer coincidence, The Shadow learns of a deadly plot against Lord Shaufton on a journey to Graywall. Now, he must enter a pseudo courtship with Lord Shaufton’s daughter under his original guise of Sir Calan, all while old emotions are stirred by the lovely Elsbeth, Lord Shaufton’s niece. Elsbeth, it seems, is the only woman who can heal his troubled soul, but she has a story of her own. What transpires is a glorious tale full of deceit, greed, inner struggles, betrayal, and most of all—love.

Review

Shadows of Valor is a story of ladies and knights, including one with a secret identity, in a tale of intrigue, valor, adventure, and seemingly unrequited love. Sometimes I’m in the mood for a light romantic read that isn’t heavy on historically accurate dialogue and doesn’t shy away from what some consider romance novel cliché. Shadows of Valor fit this mood for me, and I was pleasantly entertained reading about Elsbeth and her dealings with The Shadow and Sir Calan.

The pace of the story kept things moving well and the writing was enjoyable. There were a few things I noticed in the uncorrected proof that I hope were caught before final publication, ie., “had to of” instead of “had to have”, as well as a few phrases that felt too modern for the story. The intrigue and all of the “bad guys” are easy to figure out almost from the beginning (which could be intentional), yet Shadows of Valor is still a fun, quick read that many readers who like historical/medieval romance will enjoy.

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Blackmoore by Julianne Donaldson – Blog Tour

Posted by Shanda Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Shanda's Reviews

Sep 092013

Blackmoore

Author: Julianne Donaldson

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published Date: September 9, 2013

Paperback/Kindle/CD/DB Bookshelf: 320 pages

Genre: Regency Romance

ISBN# 978-1-60907-460-9

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free digital uncorrected proof from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

**Visit The King’s English Bookshop page for details on Blackmoore‘s Launch Party on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2013 at 7 PM!**

Summary

Kate Worthington knows her heart and she knows she will never marry. Her plan is to travel to India instead—if only to find peace for her restless spirit and to escape the family she abhors. But Kate’s meddlesome mother has other plans. She makes a bargain with Kate: India, yes, but only after Kate has secured—and rejected—three marriage proposals.

Kate journeys to the stately manor of Blackmoore determined to fulfill her end of the bargain and enlists the help of her dearest childhood friend, Henry Delafield. But when it comes to matters of love, bargains are meaningless and plans are changeable. There on the wild lands of Blackmoore, Kate must face the truth that has kept her heart captive. Will the proposal she is determined to reject actually be the one thing that will set her heart free?

Set in Northern England in 1820, Blackmoore is a Regency romance that tells the story of a young woman struggling to learn how to follow her heart. It is Wuthering Heights meets Little Women with a delicious must-read twist.

Review

Blackmoore is an enthralling, heart-twisting romance with a depth that I greatly appreciated. There were highs and lows throughout as well a heart-pounding-yet-clean chemistry that carried me through the darker elements of the story. I kept turning pages, needing to know how things would turn out for Kate because somehow they must, even though she was determined to stay unmarried and travel to India with her aunt.

The details were expertly done, not too heavy, but enough to picture Blackmoore in my mind with minimal effort. The descriptions of the stark beauty of the moors and Robin Hood’s Bay had me pulling up Google so I could see the area for myself. When Kate hears a woodlark’s song for the first time I was so moved by the scene that I again searched online so I could hear what she was hearing.

The characters were interesting and dimensional, even those that made a minimal appearance in the story. I loved every scene with Henry. My heart broke for him in a way that I did not expect. I ached for Kate and what she felt she must endure. I loathed Kate’s mother. I wanted to know more about Henry’s grandfather, and Herr Spohr, and even the townspeople.

I was easily swept into the story, setting, and emotion of Blackmoore. I experienced elation, anticipation, disappointment, frustration, yearning and freedom right along with Kate. I wanted everything for her. I love they way Julianne writes the hero so that the reader knows exactly what he is feeling without being in his head. It is subtle yet so very effective.

Though Blackmoore carries a bit darker and more serious tone than Edenbrooke, it is a well-written and memorable love story that fans of clean-but-still-toe-curling romance will enjoy. I highly recommend it.

Visit Julianne Donaldson:

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***Special pricing in September for Kindle versions of Blackmoore and Edenbrooke!!***

Augustina by Rebecca Belliston

Posted by Shanda Book Reviews, Shanda's Reviews

Sep 032013

Augustina (Sadie #2)

Author: Rebecca Belliston

Publisher: Gated Publishing

Published Date: August 5, 2013

Paperback: 396 pages

Genre: Romantic Suspense

ISBN# 978-1490453958

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free digital PDF in exchange for an honest review

Summary

Against the odds, Sarah Augustina Dawson (Sadie) survived the wrath of Guillermo. But not without a price. Forced to leave her beloved Montana behind, she and Josh are on the run. Within the warmth of the South, she’s determined to find peace and conquer her past, even if only in her mind.

But Guillermo can’t let go. He’s still orchestrating, hunting, and devising ways to exact his own kind of justice. When the law swings in his favor, he’s ready to end the feud that started the moment Josh walked into Sadie’s life.

Review

Augustina is the sequel to LDS romantic suspense Sadie and continues where that book left off. While technically you could read Augustina without reading Sadie first, I wouldn’t recommend it, not just because of events and characters that are referred to in the second book, but also because Sadie is an enjoyable read.

Augustina has several fast-moving and suspenseful sections. At times the back and forth between the should-we-or-shouldn’t-we decision felt a bit drawn out and overall the story probably could have been trimmed a little, but there is plenty of what’s-going-to-happen-next to keep readers turning pages.

Guillermo is one of those terrifyingly powerful and well-funded bad guys that has the resources to find whoever he wants no matter where they hide. The scenes involving Amy and Katie were intensely written. I appreciated the dedication of the two Marshalls assigned to Josh and Sadie/Augustina. It frustrated me at times that there was so much resistance from Josh and Sadie against the people who were actually trying to help them, though in a stressful situation like that, not knowing who to trust or what the consequences of testifying will be, their indecision is understandable.

All in all, Augustina is a good follow up to Sadie, and readers who like LDS romantic suspense will enjoy both books. I look forward to reading more from Rebecca in the future.

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Face to Face: Seeking a Personal Relationship with God by S. Michael Wilcox – Blog Tour

Posted by Shanda Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Shanda's Reviews

Aug 192013

Face to Face: Seeking a Personal Relationship with God

Author: S. Michael Wilcox

Publisher: Deseret Book

Published Date: August 2013

Hardcover/Kindle/DB Bookshelf: 128 pages

Genre: Religious Nonfiction

ISBN# 978-1-60907-520-0

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free hardcover review copy in exchange for an honest review

Summary

“And the Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend” (Exodus 33:11).

Is it possible to talk with God as Moses did—face to face? This is not only what we long for, but what God also ardently desires. For Moses that may have meant an actual physical encounter, but for most of us it is an expression that suggests friendship, open communication, honesty, and the conversations of familiarity. But how is that done? And how can we learn how God speaks to us individually? Bestselling author S. Michael Wilcox explores the scriptural expressions and concepts of “pouring out,” “wrestling,” being “filled with desire,” and “knocking” at the door Jesus promised would open to us— particularly in those times when we deeply need heaven to hear us and to confirm to our souls that more than our words are being received.

Review

In Face to Face: Seeking a Personal Relationship with God, S. Michael Wilcox presents six different methods of communication with Heavenly Father through prayer that build faith, increase understanding of His love for us, and strengthen our bond with Him.

I enjoyed the author’s writing style, and found the book to be a quick yet impactful read. I was most affected by the concept of “pouring out” our hearts to God. I related to the examples given and my heart was touched.

The importance of constantly reaching to become closer to Heavenly Father, both for myself and my posterity, was driven home to me by this quote in the chapter about Jeroboam and the fate of the ten tribes:

“Sometimes when we fail to reach for ourselves, we fail for the thousands who will follow in the culture we create.” -page 84

I was reassured by the reminder that our God wants to bless us in every way He can, and that all things that come from Him are for our benefit, even if we don’t see it at the time. I gained a new understanding of the word desire as it refers to becoming one with our Father and Savior, rather than a request for something from Them.

When we consult with God in deep, quiet prayer about what we should desire, He will answer us. Through our reaching out to Him in these different forms of prayer and communication, we will become closer to Him than we can in any other way.

“The Spirit reaches down and draws water for us, or rain falls upon our souls and the flowers of faith, devotion, obedience, virtue, courage, adoration, gratitude–and especially love–spring up. God can walk with us in our garden, one that he himself is primarily responsible for having created. But we both are fulfilled, both satisfied with a mutual giving and receiving.” –page 121

I don’t hesitate to recommend Face to Face: Seeking a Personal Relationship with God to anyone who desires a closer relationship with Heavenly Father. I will be keeping it in a handy place on my bookshelf to revisit often.

Find Face to Face: Seeking a Personal Relationship with God:

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Longing For Home by Sarah M. Eden – Blog Tour

Posted by Shanda Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Shanda's Reviews

Aug 122013

Longing For Home

Author: Sarah M. Eden

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published Date: August 2013

Softcover/Kindle/Nook/DB ebook/CD: 432 pages

Genre: Historical Romance

ISBN# 978-1609074616

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free softcover ARC in exchange for an honest review

Summary

Twenty-six-year-old Katie Macauley has placed all her hope in Hope Springs, a small town in the 1870 Wyoming Territory. But if she wants to return home to Ireland to make amends with her estranged family, she’ll need to convince the influential Joseph Archer to hold true to his word and keep her on his payroll as his housekeeper despite her Irish roots. The town is caught in an ongoing feud between the Irish and the “Reds” the frontiersmen who would rather see all the Irish run out of town and the Irish immigrants who are fighting to make a home for themselves in the New World. When Joseph agrees to keep Katie on as his housekeeper, the feud erupts anew, and Katie becomes the reluctant figurehead for the Irish townsfolk. As the violence escalates throughout the town, Katie must choose between the two men who have been vying for her love though only one might be able to restore hope to her heart.

Review

Longing For Home is a well-written and satisfying story with endearing characters and a fascinating glimpse of Irish culture in the Old West at a time when prejudice against them prevailed throughout most of the country.

I thoroughly enjoyed Longing For Home and consider it well worth the wait. It is a deeper, more involved story than Sarah’s other books, proving that she has taken her talent for storytelling to an even higher level. The characters are dimensional and real, with histories full of struggle, survival, love, and loss. They are so well-developed I feel as if they are MY family and friends.

The dialogue is wonderful. I could “hear” Katie’s brogue simply because of the words and phrases she uses with very little, if any, phonetical spelling. I appreciate that more than I can say. The use of traditional Irish phrases is enchanting and adds a wonderful lilt to Katie’s voice in my mind. Tavish and Joseph are remarkable, hard-working men with very different personalities and situations yet with the same capacity for love and desire for peace in the community. I love them both and hope that I will get to read more about them in the future.

Experiencing the story through the point-of-view of all three main characters not only gave me a better understanding of their thoughts and motivations, it also made me care about them even more and kept me guessing about how events would unfold. I truly didn’t know how things would turn out for Katie, or even how I wanted them to turn out because I was as torn about what to do as she was. I was unsure about Katie at first, but her growth throughout her experiences in Hope Springs felt natural and I was glad to see how far she had come by the end.

Longing For Home is a must for fans of Sarah M. Eden. Readers who appreciate clean romance and quality writing will want to add this book to the top of their reading lists. Though I don’t often rate books in my reviews, I don’t hesitate to give Longing For Home an appreciative and enthusiastic five stars.

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