Jeremy’s Promise by A.R. Talley-Blog Tour Review

 Posted by  Blog Tours, Sheila's Reviews
Feb 282015
 
 Jeremy's Promise (1)

 

Jeremy's Promise

Product Details

  • Title: Jeremy’s Promise
  •  Author: A.R. Talley
  • Hardcover: 308 pages
  • Publisher: AuthorHouse (October 28, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1491818123
  • FTC,FYI: Received  a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
  • Book Description: 

“Are you okay?” he asked. Before I could reassure him once more that I was fine, the stewardess started the safety demonstration. I directed my attention to her, happy for the diversion. Jeremy and I had spent most of the day before in small talk and sightseeing, intentionally avoiding the issues we faced. He was so relieved that I was staying with him that he made a Herculean effort not to upset me. And later, I had to admit, that night had been sweet and intimate. But sitting on the plane, I couldn’t forget David’s kiss or his haunting blue eyes. I couldn’t forget the look of devastation on his face when he said goodbye at the elevator. “Go home, Annie,” he had said. And I was. I was going home, hoping that Jeremy and I could rebuild what I had destroyed. I needed to reach out to Jeremy, reassure him. I needed him to know I still loved him and was committed to our marriage. When the stewardess finished talking, I turned to him and gently laid my hand on his cheek. “Thank you,” I said just above a whisper. He looked back in surprise. “Thank you . . . for what?” “For coming to get me.” Instantly his eyes filled with tears.
 
The trip that was meant to save Annie and Jeremy’s marriage brought it to near ruin. Now Annie has returned home, frightened and confused. Jeremy, too, is frightened—and angry. What will it take to save their marriage? It’s clear. Jeremy needs to forgive—Annie needs to forget. A promise is made. A tragedy occurs. A second honeymoon is disrupted. A chance encounter brings David Andrews back into Annie’s life. Annie is determined to remain faithful. She’s made a promise she intends to keep—Jeremy’s Promise.

EXCERPT from Jeremy’s Promise

EXCERPT #1
“Okay, Jeremy,” Terry said, “Tell her.”

 

    “What?” Jeremy asked, bewildered.

 

     “Tell her how you feel about this other man in her life.”

 

      Jeremy was silent for a long moment. I didn’t know why he hadn’t launched immediately into a tirade about David Andrews. All I did know was I didn’t want to hear it.

 

      “Well,” Jeremy said, more subdued, “I think she knows—that anyway.”

       “No, Jeremy, you have to tell her.”
       

        More silence.

 

        “Annie, look at him,” Terry said. I shook my head. I couldn’t look at him. “Annie,” Terry said with measured patience, “Look at him.”

 

      I wiped the back of my hand across each cheek and slowly raised my head. I looked across at Jeremy. His face was red and silent tears ran down his cheek.

 

    “Tell her,” Terry said, gently prodding.

 

     “I’d rather die than have you be with him,” he said, his voice so strained I had to hold my breath to hear him. “Thinking of you—with him—it’s like having a thousand shards of glass lacerate my heart. It’s bleeding me to death.” His lip quivered. 
My Thoughts:
This was a hard book to read. Annie is struggling with her husband’s death and having to rehash the past as she reads through Jeremy’s journals. I loved the first book in the series, David’s Song. My problem is that I really loved David in the book.
This book will take you on an emotional ride. If you’ve ever had marriage problems or been divorced, you’ll be able to relate to the struggles that Annie and Jeremy went through. I guess you have to wonder is…should Annie have went with her heart or her head? What was the right thing to do in the long run? There is a lot of pain that many of the characters went through and we feel it right along with them.
I was surprised when Annie goes on a cruise and meets up with none other than David again. Their relationship continues, even though David is engaged to be married to someone else. A lot happens on the cruise, but they don’t get back together. The epilogue though has a surprise at the end, which will lead into the third book of the trilogy called Annie’s Choice. I can’t wait to read this third book.
Though this book or the trilogy in general is not like your typical sweet romance, it is full of emotion and angst, but you truly get to know the characters. I liked reading Jeremy’s Promise and I know anyone who likes a good story will love reading this too.

Praise for Jeremy’s Promise

A.R. Talley, gives you a believable look at the struggle of one couple to reconnect and heal their marriage, with dialog which sweeps you into the moment as if you were there with them, experiencing both their pain and recovery. Kudos to the author who has once again produced a book I couldn’t put down, as well as one I felt compelled to read multiple times. ~Donna Dech

Jeremy’s Promise second book in a trilogy by A.R. Talley is an awesome, emotional, romantic, highly recommended, well written story with captivating and engaging characters. ~Debbie Ballard

This is not a book I would have picked by myself! I loved it from start to finish! Eagerly waiting for the third book in the trilogy to come out!! I highly recommend this book! ~Goodreads

add to goodreads

AprilAuthor A.R. Talley A. R. Talley lives in Ohio with her husband Doug and the last of her seven children (the rest have flown the coup.) She loves to cook, read, write, watch movies, play piano, and laugh. Her second favorite vacation involves the British Isles and a small café in Scotland.

 

The Lazarus Game by Stephen J. Valentine-Blog Tour Review

 Posted by  Blog Tours, Sheila's Reviews
Feb 202015
 

 

Coverthelazarusgame22886410Product Details

  • Title: The Lazarus Game
  • Author: Stephen J. Valentine
  • Paperback: 320 pages
  • Publisher: Cedar Fort Publishing & Media (February 10, 2015)
  • Genre: YA Sci-Fi and Fantasy
  • ISBN-10: 1462115543
  • FTC, FYI: I received a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
  • Reviewed by Sheila

Book Description:   
An amazing new video game has the power to resurrect the brightest minds of the past and see what they’d create in the modern world. There’s just one catch—it requires another person’s soul. Carter Chance, who is a teenage genius, must find a way to stop his generation from exchanging their souls for a computer-generated fantasy. This action-packed thriller delves into the enticement and dangers of virtual reality.

My Review:

The Lazarus Game is a book of adventure, a tiny bit of teen romance, history, sci-fi and fantasy all rolled into one exciting YA book. The main character, Carter Chance, is a typical 15 -year- old teen boy…except he is a genius. It’s because of his great brain that he gets sucked into the world of The Lazarus Game and it’s crazy inventor.

The best part of the book, is that you really don’t know who the good and the bad guys are through 3/4 of the book. You know that you want to root for Carter and his friends, but from that point on, you get pulled in a lot of directions.

Without giving anything away…which I refuse to do when it comes to surprising twists in a novel…this book has quite a few twists. You get so caught up in the high tech game and the wonderful opportunities coming Carter’s way, that many things will happen that will catch you and make you pause in awe.

This book written for teens, will make them think about life without that preachy feel that some books have. It will sneak up on them and that is a good thing. There is some violence and mild gore that would make me hesitate having anyone under 13 read this book, but anyone over will love it. Teens today will be able to relate to the hopes and dreams that Carter, his brother and friends all have. They’ll also like all of the wild happenings too.

This book is a stand alone and has some great book club questions at the end. If you read this with your teens, make sure you have a nice discussion at the end with your kids like I did. One question, “What would you sacrifice in order to achieve your greatest desires?” Another asked, “Why do so many people today sacrifice reality for fantasy?” Many of these questions paved the way for lively discussions with my teens.

I enjoyed reading The Lazarus Game for many reasons, but it really comes down to a nicely written book that will keep you glued to the pages. I’ll be happy to pick up the next book that Stephen Valentine writes

Meet Author Stephen J. Valentine
Stephen J. Valentine received his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Utah State University. He is Senior Program Manager for FamilySearch International, responsible for the online publication of billions of historical records. Stephen loves history, hiking, cooking, reading, and traveling, especially to Disneyland. Stephen resides in Utah with his beautiful wife, talented children, brilliant Schnauzer, and massive J.R.R. Tolkien collection.

10 FUN FACTS

1. The movie theater/game store in “The Lazarus Game” is based on the Capitol Theatre in Brigham City, Utah, where I grew up. It is still in operation today, one of the few old elegant movie theaters still in business.

2. My favorite book is “To Kill a Mockingbird.” The recent announcement of an additional book by Harper Lee was about as astonishing to me as if they’d found human life on another planet!

3. I’m also a huge J.R.R. Tolkien nerd (way before the movies!) and have collected dozens of editions of his famous trilogy, including editions in Russian, Spanish, German, French, and Canadian (Frodo has an annoying habit of adding “eh” to the end of all his statements).

4. I started writing at the age of four. You can still find lots of four-year old humor in my books.

5. I have traveled to 48 of 50 states in the U.S; 49 of 51 if you count Canada as a state. (I love Canada, by the way—but I have many Canadian friends and love to tease them.)

6. My favorite places to write are in public places—airports, libraries, etc. The surrounding noise is like white noise to me.

7. The worst thing when writing is to be interrupted—potty breaks, eating, and loved ones are all huge distractions while “in the flow” of the story. All you authors out there know what I’m talking about.

8. My favorite place on earth is Disneyland with my family. We have more fun standing in line than most people have on the rides!

9. I’m tired of dystopian novels. Does the future have to be dark and nasty?

10. If “The Lazarus Game” were made into a movie 20 years ago, the perfect actor for Carter Chance would be Matthew Broderick. Think of a blend Matthew’s roles in “War Games” and “Ferris Bueller.” Perfect, right?

Forbidden by Kimberley Griffiths Little-Blog Tour Review and Giveaway

 Posted by  Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Dec 122014
 

 

 

Forbidden


Forbidden KimberleyProduct Details

 

  • Title:  Forbidden
  • Author: Kimberley Griffiths Little
  • Hardcover: 400 pages
  • Publisher: HarperCollins (November 4, 2014)
  • Genre: Romance/Historical Fiction
  • ISBN-10: 0062194976
  • FTC, FYI: Received an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Description:
In the unforgiving Mesopotamian desert where Jayden’s tribe lives, betrothal celebrations abound, and tonight it is Jayden’s turn to be honored. But while this union with Horeb, the son of her tribe’s leader, will bring a life of riches and restore her family’s position within the tribe, it will come at the price of Jayden’s heart. Then a shadowy boy from the Southern Lands appears. Handsome and mysterious, Kadesh fills Jayden’s heart with a passion she never knew possible. But with Horeb’s increasingly violent threats haunting Jayden’s every move, she knows she must find a way to escape—or die trying. With a forbidden romance blossoming in her heart and her family’s survival on the line, Jayden must embark on a deadly journey to save the ones she loves—and find a true love for herself. Set against the brilliant backdrop of the sprawling desert, the story of Jayden and Kadesh will leave readers absolutely breathless as they defy the odds and risk it all to be to

 

 


 My Review:
I must admit right off, I love everything that Kimberley writes. She has a way of making her characters seem so real. You become so absorbed into the story, you forget you are actually reading and not living the experience. The main character is Jayden, who lives in the early Mesopotamian time before Christ. Her people were the Nomad Tribes that wandered the desert areas. It is a rich and beautiful time period of adventure, danger, hardships and survival. These people wandered through the deserts to look for food and water. They form bonds with other wandering tribes. This is where the story begins at Jayden’s betrothal ceremony. Soon we find out that this marriage is not one that Jayden wants because frankly, her betrothed, Horeb, is a rich, but mean man. Then of course a very young, handsome man, Kadesh, comes along that does steal Jayden’s heart. This may seem to you that this book is a typical romance, but you’d be so wrong. There is a rich story woven into this romance with plenty of strife and intrigue. Nothing is ever easy in life, and Jayden finds this out too. Though she wants Kadesh in her life, she knows it’s Forbidden because he is not part of her tribe. At this time, and with this people, you really had no choice when a marriage when arranged for you. Oh, it hurt to read about Jayden and the choices she had to make and work through.

Another thing that really pleased me was the fabulous historical research that was done for this book. You can always tell when an author digs deep to make the story accurate for the time period, the people and country of the characters. Kimberley did exactly that: of writing a novel that was realistic and true. This is another reason that this novel is not just another romance, but a story of depth because of it’s historical accuracies. 

 Schedule some good time this winter/Christmas to just sit and read this novel. You will be pulled in and not want to leave. Unfortunately there is a cliff hanger that will make you beg for more in this series. I can’t wait to read more about what will happen in Jayden’s life. I love Kimberley’s writing style and I know I’ll always read a great story that will be remembered way after I’ve finished it. 

Praise for Forbidden
*STARRED* Review, ALA BOOKLIST “. . . At its core, this is a romance, with all the push and pull that goes along with impossible love, and Little elevates the story by creating a perilous landscape, both outward and inward, as Jayden must deal with the hardship of desert life as well as her own desires.” 

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL “This is a fast-paced, entertaining choice which will appeal to fans of historical fiction and romance.” 

“Lush, lyrical, romantic. Forbidden transports readers into a vividly imagined place and time.” –
 -Claudia Gray, New York Times bestselling author 

 “The harsh beauty of the deserts of ancient Mesopotamia come to life in Forbidden, with beautiful descriptions that will make you crave water and check for sand in your clothes. Your heart will break as you root for Jayden to triumph over the many struggles that threaten to tear her world apart, and the ending will leave you thirsting for more!” –Sara B. Larson, author of Defy    

EXCERPT:  
The night was starkly beautiful under a canopy of jeweled stars. I savored my moments of freedom, which were marred by the realization that it was dripping away day by day. The sizzle of coffee beans roasting in the skillet floated across the still air. Cups clinked on a tray as my father passed them around the circle. The aroma of roasted brew spiced with cardamom seeped into the night. As I tried to slip past, Horeb’s eyes caught mine. Firelight flickered over his face, outlining his jaw and wind-tangled black hair. He was devastatingly handsome just as all the girls said, but his lips curled into a smile that sent shudders down my spine. Horeb’s glance lingered on my body, settling not on my face, but lower, as if he was undressing me right there on the dirt path. His eyes locking onto mine, Horeb rose from the circle of men. I jerked around, breaking off his stare. Walking faster, I turned the corner of the tent just as his arm reached out to stop me. “So, little cousin,” Horeb said. “Have you been enjoying the betrothal ceremony? Tell me, are the women telling stories of marital relations?” My breath caught like a thorn in my throat. The women’s ceremonies were not discussed with any male—only inside the privacy of a marriage bed. “You shouldn’t be saying these things to me,” I said. Running his fingers down my arm, Horeb continued to study me. “There are many things I’d like to say to you, Jayden. Do to you.” There used to be a time when my throat pounded every time Horeb turned my direction. A time when he was growing into those big, dark eyes and that hard, muscular body. Moments when I wanted to touch his thick, black hair, or run my finger along his jaw to discover what a boy’s skin felt like with a newly growing beard. But now that I was sixteen, and he twenty, his stares made me uneasy. My heart still pounded, but not from love. And I wasn’t sure what it was or what to call it.  

 

Author Kimberley Griffiths Little

 

Award-winning author Kimberley Griffiths Little was born in San Francisco, but now lives in New Mexico on the banks of the Rio Grande with her husband and their three sons. Her middle-grade novels, When the Butterflies Came, The Last Snake Runner, The Healing Spell, and Circle of Secrets, have been praised as “fast-paced and dramatic,” with “beautifully realized settings.” Kimberley adores anything old and musty with a secret story to tell. She’s stayed in the haunted tower room at Borthwick Castle in Scotland; sailed the Seine in Paris; ridden a camel in Petra, Jordan; shopped the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul; and spent the night in an old Communist hotel in Bulgaria.

 

 

 

25_Amazon_PaypalBlog Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/4/15 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.   a Rafflecopter giveaway

How Much Do You Love Me? by Paul Mark Tag-Blog Tour Review

 Posted by  Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Aug 292014
 

 

 

 

 

 

Product Details

 

  • Title: How Much Do You Love Me?
  •  Author: Paul Mark Tag
  • Paperback: 256 pages
  • Publisher: Sweetwater Books (August 12, 2014)
  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • ISBN-10: 1462114474
  • FTC, FYI: I received a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Description (From Amazon):
As the phone continued to ring, Kazuko bent over and picked up the cardboard. Fingers shaking, she steadied herself against the counter and stared. It took a fourth ring before she composed herself enough to answer. 

 It was Patrick. “I was afraid that you had already left.” There was a pause. “Kazuko, are you there?” 

 Kazuko’s heart was thumping hard. “I’m here, Patrick. You’re not going to believe what I just found—in the last place we would have ever looked.”

On December 7, 1941, Keiko Tanaka finds her whole world affected by the Pearl Harbor bombings. Normally friendly neighbors are suddenly suspicious of her Japanese ancestry, and her engagement to James Armstrong—a Caucasian—becomes a crisis rather than a celebration. Despite their parents’ protests, Keiko and James decide to marry before she is sent to the internment camps and he to the war.

Nearly sixty years later, Keiko’s daughter, Kazuko—born in the camps—attends to Keiko on her deathbed. However, a chance incident makes her suspect that her mother is harboring a secret. The truths she is about to uncover might unravel the family . . . and change her very perception of abiding love.

EXCERPT:
From the author: During the tumult of the anti-Japanese frenzy that follows Pearl Harbor, Keiko Tanaka and her Caucasian boyfriend, James Armstrong, decide to marry. Knowing that the idea of their marriage will create a furor, they make their announcement jointly (at a Christmas dinner) to the two families (the Tanakas farm land is owned by the Armstrongs). The following sequence occurs after James has made the announcement. Isamu and Akemi are Keiko’s parents; Harrison and Barbara are James’; Misaki is Keiko’s twin sister.
=====
James continued. “Keiko and I know how surprised you must be to hear this news.” All eyes returned to the speaker. “We thought long and hard about the best way to tell you. We chose Christmas Day so that you will always associate it with me and Keiko, to our happiness.”

At this point, Keiko thought she should stand as well. She reached across the table with her left hand and took his right, rotating her hand in his parents’ direction. Surely, they would appreciate his sincerity when they saw this beautiful symbol [author’s note: engagement ring] of his affection. She tried to gauge their reaction. She saw surprise, but not shock. So far, so good!

Keiko felt her face flush, and she knew why. She struggled to look to her right, toward the one person at the table whose approval was paramount. What she saw was not what she had hoped for. Isamu’s mouth hung open, and it looked like he was squinting. His color was gone. Fear gripped Keiko’s heart. She turned farther to try to assess her mother’s reaction. Unfortunately, because Akemi was looking at her husband, Keiko saw only her profile.

Hoping for better news at the opposite end of the table, Keiko turned to her left again. As she did so, Harrison and Barbara Armstrong switched their gaze from James to her. Compared to Keiko’s father, their complexions appeared more normal. The younger children at the table didn’t seem to know what to make of the situation. Their heads whipped back and forth from one adult to another, trying to make sense of what was obviously something quite unusual.
And then, Misaki came through. Across the table, next to James, the quiet of the room was broken by one set of hands clapping. Misaki promised that she would support me, and here she is. Perhaps concluding that if Keiko’s twin sister thought that this proclamation was worth applause, the rest of the children clapped as well.

Regrettably, Keiko saw that none of the adults was joining this spontaneous display of approval. Isamu’s back had straightened, and he was staring down the table, at no one in particular. Akemi bowed her head. Keiko hoped that James’s parents had chosen not to clap with the children so as not to embarrass their other adult guests. When the kids realized that those whose opinions at the table counted most were not participating, the applause petered out.
Keiko and James had figured that this could happen. James turned first toward his parents and then toward the Tanakas. “Mom, Dad, Mr. and Mrs. Tanaka, I want you to know…” He spoke directly to Isamu. “Mr. Tanaka, please. I love your daughter more than anything. I promise you that I will take care of her, every bit as well as you have. You have my word.”

Keiko noticed the chirp of a bird outside the window. She wondered if anyone else did, the senses of those at the table seemingly muffled by the tension filling the room. Keiko decided it was time for her to speak, and she turned to her right. “Papa, Mama.” Tears began to flow. “Papa, please look at me.” Another moment. “Papa, please.” A bit of color had returned to Isamu’s face, and he lifted his head to face his daughter.

Keiko sniffled and struggled to contain her emotions. With her left hand still in James’s and wet with perspiration, she wiped at her face with her right. “Papa, I love James and want to spend the rest of my life with him. I need your blessing.” Another beat of silence. “Mama?”

My Review:
I have read many books about World War II, and also many about the Japanese Internment Camps. This story of Keiko and James is right up there as one of my favorites. It’s already such an emotional subject of how American citizens of Japanese ancestry were treated during WWII after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. But as the reader becomes entangled in the life of Keiko and James you can’t help but become emotionally involved.

The story takes place in two different time periods as the story jumps back and forth between 1941-1942 and 2000. I truly liked the way the story unfolded. I never felt that the story was stifled because of the events being told in this format.In 2000 Keiko has had a stroke, her husband James has Alzheimers and both can’t communicate with their children. The reader soon finds out that there are deep, dark secrets that Keiko and James’s children never knew about that eventually are revealed. They were shocking things and I figured it out near the end. Even though the story and characters are fictional, it had a realistic feel throughout it’s pages. It was not always a happy read because of the events, but so worthwhile and a good reminder to not forget the past.

 I truly enjoyed this beautifully written story, full of sad American history, but also a love story with a rocky beginning that lasted. Anyone that enjoys historical fiction must read this book, especially those who love anything having to do with the WWII era.

Purchase a copy HERE: 

 

 

Meet Author: Paul Mark Tag
Paul Mark Tag graduated with multiple degrees in meteorology from Pennsylvania State University and worked for the Naval Research Laboratory as a research scientist for over thirty years before retiring to write fiction. For years prior to retirement, and the following year exclusively, he honed his skills writing short stories. These have been published in StoryBytes, Potpourri, Green’s Magazine, and The Storyteller, as well as The Errant Ricochet: Max Raeburn’s Legacy.In 2005, he self-published his first thriller, Category 5,which took advantage of his knowledge of meteorology and weather modification, followed by Prophecy and White Thaw: The Helheim Conspiracy. With his historical novel How Much Do You Love Me? he has switched genres. He lives with his wife, Becky, in Monterey, California.

Becoming Lady Lockwood by Jennifer Moore-Blog Tour Review and $25 Giveaway

 Posted by  Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Jul 182014
 

 

 

 

 

 

Becoming Lady LockwoodProduct Details

 

  • Title: Becoming Lady Lockwood {A Regency Romance}
  • Author: Jennifer Moore
  • Paperback: 208 pages
  • Publisher: Covenant Communications Inc.; 1st edition (July 1, 2014)
  • Genre: Regency Romance/Historical Romance
  • ISBN-10: 1621086895
  • FTC, FYI: Received a PDF in exchange for an honest review.

 

 

 

 

Book Description:
Amelia Beckett is delighted to be a widow. Married by proxy to a man she’d never met, Amelia recognizes that a fortuitous entry into widowhood frees her from meddlesome chaperones and matchmakers. Heiress to her mother’s sugar plantation in Jamaica, she happily anticipates working in a man’s world, with the additional credibility of her new title: Lady Lockwood. But with the arrival of Captain Sir William Drake, her plans quickly go awry . . . William has traversed the Atlantic with one purpose. If he cannot prove that Amelia’s marriage to his brother was a fraud, she will be entitled to a sizeable portion of his family’s estate. He is determined to return this duplicitous Lady to London for an official hearing, and he carries with him a letter that will ensure her cooperation . . . Left with no choice, Amelia joins the captain on his return voyage to England, and the two quickly find that ship life does not allow for evasion. Amelia and William are ceaselessly thrown together, and amidst fierce storms and ocean battles, what began as antipathy seems to be evolving quite unexpectedly. But as they draw ever closer to their destination, will the impossibility of their circumstances shatter any hope of a future together? 

My Review: 
I’ve wanted to read this book ever since I saw the lovely cover. The female catches your attention with one wary look. The battleship adds to the intrigue. Does the story live up to this beautiful cover? 100% YES! Jennifer Moore has written characters that are likable, and they light up the whole novel. It doesn’t take long to be totally captivated by Captain William Drake, First Mate Sidney, Dr. Spinner, the cook Slushy and of course the old man Tobias, who takes Amelia under his wing. Amelia is a strong, loving and independent woman for her time. She wins people over by being kind and caring. She is the perfect heroine! 

This Regency Romance is different from others I’ve read lately. Most of the novel takes place on the English battleship Venture. Moore gives such great details about the working of a ship. I was so impressed with the research she did! I learned a lot in this historical novel. 

How did I know that this book would become one of my favorites? Because it made me cry.Yes, halfway through the book I was sitting on my couch and crying. The hopeless situation that Captain Drake, Amelia, and the crew find themselves in filled me with such intense emotions. All I could do was sit and cry…for a long time. After taking a nice break from the tension and suspense in the book, I was able to see the words and keep reading. Also, the Romantic tension turns into true, “my heart is fluttering” Romance! We all have our favorite sigh-worthy heroes, and now we have Captain William Drake. Becoming Lady Lockwood played out like a movie in my mind. 

This first published novel by Jennifer Moore gets 5 stars from me! I will rush to pick up anything else that this talented author writes. 

Praise for Becoming Lady Lockwood

“Moore does a lovely job of showcasing sizzle in this must-read for fans of regency and historical romance.” ~ Foreword Reviews

 

 Purchase Becoming Lady Lockwood here…

 

Jenny Moore

Meet Author Jennifer Moore 
Jennifer Moore is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance, helping her find balance with the rest of her world, which includes a perpetually traveling husband and four active sons, who create heaps of laundry that are anything but romantic. Jennifer has a BA in linguistics from the University of Utah and is a Guitar Hero champion. She lives in northern Utah with her family. You can learn more about her at authorjmoore.com. The author’s first book, Becoming Lady Lockwood, is a regency romance centered on the British navy during the Napoleonic Wars of the early 1800s.  

 You can find Jennifer Moore here…

 

Blog Tour Giveaway
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 8/7/14 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the publisher. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.   a Rafflecopter giveaway 

I know that I should only post one of the excerpts from the novel, but I LOVED it so much I felt compelled to post both excerpts. Enjoy reading them! 

Excerpt #1
William placed his right hand on the small of her back and pulled gently with his left hand, leading her in a simple series of steps, which she quickly mastered. She focused her eyes on the captain’s shoulder where her hand rested tentatively. He moved lightly, but her movements were stiff. She was afraid of relaxing when he was practically holding her in his arms. After a few turns around the room, Amelia felt her tension ease. The music was beautiful, and Captain Drake had a way of drawing her across the floor as if she was floating. When she finally braved a glance at his face, she met his eyes, and her nervousness returned. “And is your punishment so dreadful, Miss Becket?” he asked. “I have yet to see you smile.” Amelia allowed herself a small smile. “It is a very nice punishment indeed, sir. Is it one you utilize regularly?” “Perhaps I shall, if you believe it will keep the men in line.” Amelia laughed. “I do not know what they would think if you waltzed with each sailor who failed in his duty.” “I imagine it should be quite effective at discouraging rule breaking, don’t you?” William looked thoughtful, as if considering the idea. “Perhaps. Until some of the men develop a taste for waltzing. You might begin to worry when the same men continually require discipline.” William laughed. Amelia had only heard his laugh a very few times and found she quite liked it. Especially knowing she was the one who had inspired it. She also realized that the sound had caused her heart to trip ever so slightly, and to her dismay, she found that she quite liked that as well. She lowered her eyes, suddenly finding the gold buttons on the captain’s coat fascinating. She was extremely aware of the captain’s arm, the way it wrapped around her, and his hand resting on her lower back. The hand that held hers was strong, and she felt each movement of his fingers and the subtle tightening around her own hand. And had he always had such a pleasant smell? 

Excerpt #2
He finally stopped and pulled his chair closer to her, raising her chin. “Amelia. I cannot begin to thank you for what you did. It was brave and brilliant, and it terrifies me to think that you put your life at risk for—” “For my shipmates, Captain.” She kept her eyes lowered. “I would never have forgiven myself if anything had happened to you.” He wiped the tears from her cheeks with his thumb. “I would never have forgiven myself if I had not tried. These men, this ship, it has become . . . I care for them, William, for all of you.” He raised her chin even higher, so that she was forced to lift her gaze his face. He stared at her for a moment. Then his eyes dropped to her lips, and Amelia’s pulse began to race. Would he kiss her again? They sat, frozen for a heartbeat, and then William stood, stealing with him all of the warmth in the room.

Body Image Breakthrough: Learning to See Your Body and Your Beauty in a Whole New Light by Jaci Wightman-Blog Tour Review

 Posted by  Blog Tours, Book Reviews, Sheila's Reviews
Jun 132014
 

 

 

 

 

Product Details

 

  • Title: Body Image Breakthrough: Learning to See Your Body and Your Beauty in a Whole New Light
  •  Author: Jaci Wightman
  • Paperback: 144 pages
  • Publisher: Cedar Fort, Inc. (June 10, 2014)
  • Genre Non-Fiction/Self Help
  • ISBN-10: 1462114385
  • FTC, FYI: Received a pdf copy in exchange for an honest review. 
  • Review by Sheila

Book Description:
Stop sacrificing to the idol of the perfect woman. Body Image Breakthrough cuts through the fad diets and pop psychology to find the root of women’s body image issues. Free yourself from negative body image and live each day as Heavenly Father intended, wrapped in the soul-healing beauty of the Lord.

My Review:
 I’ve been reading several books about body image lately, and frankly I’ve needed this. From the very beginning of chapter one I knew that this book would have the messages I needed to hear. Jaci’s voice is friendly and personal. You feel like you are talking to your best friend. One of the best things I loved about this book is the “Additional Study” information that reviews what the chapter talked about and gives you a small assignment to look up additional scriptures in the Bible, Book of Mormon and other scripture. I really liked this time to reflect more on what the scriptures had to say about beauty and image.

 Here are more of the highlights from the book that will stay with me.

 

 

“It all comes down to this: if we’re trying to glorify ourselves
through our outward appearance, we’re walking a dead-end road
that will only lead to more emptiness and heartache. Truth is,
there’s only One who can fill our hearts with the acceptance and
love we’ve been longing for. There’s only One who can offer us
the satisfying and abundant fruit of the tree of life. It’s a kind of
nourishment that the world can’t even begin to imitate. But we
can only partake of this fruit if we quit looking to other people to
fill us and devote ourselves instead to seeking the acceptance and
affirmation of the Lord.”

 

 

 

“Could it be the adversary has convinced us that the only way
to feel “secure, affirmed, and valuable” is to gain the acceptance of
our peers? Could it be that we dress for the eyes of others in order
to “fill a hole”? Maybe it’s time for us to learn where our true value
comes from. Maybe it’s time to turn our backs on the seductive
voices coming from the great and spacious building.”

 

 

 

 
“Deep down, I knew there had to be a way to find balance.
There had to be a way to honor my God-given desire for beauty
without bowing down before the image of the world. Walking
away from the image couldn’t mean walking away from physical
attractiveness altogether. Instead, the answer had to involve learning
and internalizing how the Lord understood outward—not just
inward—beauty. I knew Christ didn’t view a woman’s appearance
through the lens of the world, but I certainly did. For the most
part, what the world saw as beautiful, I saw as beautiful, and what
the world shunned, I shunned. What I needed most was a body
image breakthrough. A radical change of heart. I needed the Lord
to completely re-frame the way I looked at physical beauty.”

 
 Here is one of my favorite things that Jaci said is her book…

” Please believe me when I say that if you’ll simply allow the
Lord to lead you through the transformation process, you’ll discover
a new place to live—a place where you’ll actually rejoice in
your physical body. It’s a place where you’ll find the ability to
master your appetite; where your weight will settle in at a healthy
level; and where all obsessive thinking will finally cease. Best of all,
it’s a place where you’ll come to know the beauty and splendor of
Christ, and how it applies to your individual body. I promise, it’s a
place unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.”

 How I wish I could share more with you, but as you can see, this book will truly change the way you think about yourself in many respects. I hope that all LDS women and teens will read this book. I know that lives will be changed, as minds and hearts assimilate this message of letting the Lord and his words help with their body image breakthrough. 

 Purchase at…

 

 

 

  Meet Author Jaci Wightman:

 

A first-time author, Jaci Green Wightman (pronounced JAY-see) was raised in five different states before meeting her husband, Greg, during her freshman year of college. Together, they’re now enjoying the daunting task of raising seven children born in just eight years. In 2012, Jaci finally graduated from BYU-Idaho with a degree in University Studies, 21 years after postponing her schooling to start a family. Underneath all her outward busyness, however, Jaci is simply an ordinary woman who discovered an extraordinary Savior. Her greatest joy lies in teaching and testifying of the One who not only changed her heart, but radically transformed her entire life.
Go HERE to learn more about Jaci and her book.

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