Book of Souls by Glenn Cooper

What do a retired FBI agent, Nostradamus, Shakespeare, John Calvin, Area 51, the granddaughter of Lord Cantwell and an order of mute monks in the middle ages have in common?

Why are a dying man, government agencies and Watchers all desperate to get their hands on an ancient book of names and dates?

The only clue as to the book's origin is the number 1527 on the spine.

Will Piper is the FBI agent forced into early retirement and trying to adjust to a life of leisure with his new wife and baby, only to be drawn into international intrigue as he begins a quest to find the origin and meaning of the book. Once the book is in his possession, he discovers even more riddles, whose answers could hold not only the key to the world's future but proof of the existence of God.

Cooper has written an excellent tale that takes the reader on a journey across continents and spans hundreds of years. He gives you a glimpse at how one book inspired not only Shakespeare and Nostradamus, but also caused the birth of Calvinism and one of the biggest mysteries in US history. What is really hidden at Area 51? Cooper has a very compelling theory on what is being kept under wraps and why politicians will do anything to keep the world from discovering the secret. He does jump back and forth to different time periods, but places them strategically so as not to confuse the reader. Not once was I left saying, "Now wait a minute, what time period is this? Who are we reading about now?" Too often less skilled authors lose the reader with this style of writing. Cooper has mastered it and his story flows beautifully from beginning to end. He combines just the right amount of action, mystery, history and human interest to make this a page turner. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Five out of five stars.

Book Reviews

The following books were all provided by the authors.

Langata Rules: Pirates at Lat 10 by Ken Miller
When one thinks about a story about pirates, we generally envision the historic swashbuckling characters and adventures. Even though there is the occasional hadline, we don't think of igh seas pirates as a modern problem, yet it is. In Langata Rules, Ken Miller brings to life the modern day pirate tale. His story is a fast paced action pact story that evolves as it progresses. The author does a good job of showing all sides of the picture, including the circumstances that produce the pirates that terrorize the seas. Miller also gives a view of the political climate in Africa and how business and politics are impacted by pirates and how they all impact each other creating an endless cycle.  Starting out, there are numerous characters, which can be confusing for some readers, but if pirates and political intrigue interest you, stick with it. A well written book that will appeal to many, although it is geared more toward a male audience. 3.5 out of five stars.

Web of Deceit by Darlene Cox
Web of Deceit is the story of Peter Brock and how he goes through life manipulating others until things begin to unravel. Cox has assembled and interesting cast of characters in this murder mystery/crime thriller. She weaves a tale of greed and corruption with multiple characters, flashbacks and twists. While I found the story well written and easy to read, I can't say that I liked any of the characters. Everyone seemed to have deceitful and unlikable qualities. For me this made it hard to care about what happened to any of them. Where Cox did draw me in was with the complexity of the plot. I liked the fact that there are  multiple murders as well as other crimes and just when you think you have it all figured out, she surprises you. 3.5 out of five stars.

Two Legged Snakes by Dr. Ed Slack & Is He Lying To You by Dan Crum

Dr Slack has put together a book about manipulative people, how to identify then and how to handle them or protect yourself from their deceitful ways. We have all encountered the two legged snake at some point in our lives and for some you may be dealing with them right now. Many are easy to spot, but others trick us into false security and trust. Slack has combined simple descriptions of types and traits with humorous pictures. He also provides checklist to help you become a snake watcher and to teach you how to take control back from the users of the world. An interesting, fun and informative read. Four out of five stars.

Maybe I watch one too many crime shows (Criminal Minds, Lie To Me, etc.) but the concepts of profiling and figuring out people's "tells" is fascinating to me.  Dan Crum has put together a book that says it's to help women, but really the information and wisdom he imparts is knows no gender. He covers the subject matter clearly and concisely. The book's subtitle also implies it's just for dating. Again, the information Crum provides can help in all your interpersonal interactions. For those new to the dating scene it can be invaluable and for those who have been burned in the past  or who are less intuitive, it can give you some skills to spot deception. I found the book fascinating and was pleasantly surprised that it didn't have a "jaded" feel, that many similar books express. Crum does say that everyone is misleading at some point or the other in life, but by explaining which deceptions are meant to cause harm he gives you the tools to trust your own judgement. Even if you don't need this in your personal life, it's a fascinating book or decoding behaviors. Five out of five stars.

Reviews

Jumping on Water: Awaken Your Joy ~ Empower Your Life by Ted Karam

I have long said perception is reality. Each person has their own reality because they have their own perceptions. This book captured the essence of soul searching. Karam gives a fresh and easy to follow guide for making your life positive. Life and emotions are complicated and we can choose to let them rule us or we can take control and master them. Jumping on Water is a fabulous guide to teach you to become a master of your own journey. Karam will teach you how to take every experience, whether good or bad and find the positive in it by focusing on Who You Are, Why You Are here, What You Want, What’s Holding You Back and How To Wake Your Power Within. This isn’t just another self-help book, it’s a way to truly be alive. Five out of five stars.

Making Rounds with Oscars: The Extraordinary Gift of an Ordinary Cat by Dr. David Dosa
Cat lovers will rush to pick up this book about the endearing Oscar, who is known to comfort dying patients in their final hours. However, only a small part of the book is about Oscar. The real focus of the book is dementia and the experiences of the patients and families affected by it. I have to be honest and say that I originally wanted to read the story of this wonderful animal. But having watched my grandmother go thru this horrible disease, I was deeply moved by the stories of the lives Oscar and Dr. Dosa touch. If you know someone who has a loved one suffering through this, buy them this book. It has valuable insight that will help them cope. Five out of five stars.

Dead Man of the Year by Stephen Hawley Martin

I don't usually review a book way before it's publication date but Oaklea Press asked me to, and those of you who know me know I love a good mystery.

Hearken back to the days of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie. When tales of mystery were so finely yet simply woven they left us spellbound. Where the characters reached out from the pages and took us along for the investigation. Those mysteries are timeless classics that will be read and loved for generations to come. Now, come back to the present and meet Stephen Hawley Martin. Don’t let it fool you, that he is co-founder of The Martin Agency, an ad agency, probably best know for the GEIKO gecko and caveman campaigns. This book isn’t a slick campaign by an ad man who thinks just because he can come up with good copy he’s a writer. Martin has written an intriguing cat and mouse mystery. Just when you think you have figured out who is the guilty party, he will surprise you. As a playwright myself, I love to break the fourth wall. Not sure what it’s called when the author of a book does it, but apparently Martin likes to break that wall himself. There are several instances where his main character is obviously talking to us, the reader. I loved this. It made me feel as if I was actually in the room with the character. Martin also writes this in the first person, which further gives the reader a sense of being a part of the action. One of the great things about the characters of this book is that they are realistic. Although, we hope to never go through these situations, it is easy to see that they could be very real. As the plot thickens, you will find it impossible to put this book down. And even when you’ve read the last page, you will want to know what happens to these individuals in the future. This is one of the best mysteries I’ve read in a long time. Dead Man of the Year is destined to become a classic murder mystery for future generations. Five out of five stars.

Be sure to check out the author's website for more information about this book and his others. It goes on sale this summer.

Here is the synopsis sent by the publisher:

The story, set in 1994, takes place in an advertising agency with its major account in review. Brian Durston, the protagonist, has recently joined the firm because his uncle, a major stockholder, has promised to bring him in as a partner. But in the first few pages, Brian discovers the uncle dead at his desk with a bullet through his brain. The police think it's suicide, but the protagonist believes otherwise. His only hope to avoid the unemployment line and salvage the situation is to solve the mystery and save the account.

The first question facing Brian is who benefits from his uncle's death? The answer seems obvious at first: The surviving partners, of course. So Brian decides some investigating is in order. In steps the beautiful and enigmatic copywriter, Nickie D'Agostino. She says she wants to help Brian save the account and find the killer. But before long, Brian begins to wonder. Could she be the one who did it? A romance tortured by suspicion follows, and a frantic, white-knuckle race to find the murderer before Brian's share of the business reverts to the surviving partners, or worse --his snooping prompts the killer to strike again, sending Brian to join his uncle in the afterlife.

Reviews

Stressed in Scottsdale by Marcia Fine
Do you need to de-stress your life? Then pick up a copy of Fine’s book and escape from the chaotic pace of life with fits of laughter. Fine has taken the life of one stressed out, over committed woman and made her into someone we can all relate to and learn from. You will see parts of yourself and friends in the lead character, Jean Rubin as she faces some of life’s challenges with grace and humor. 4.5 out of five stars.

Fire Gazer: Arson at the Wolf House by Kevin Burton McGuire
Those of you who follow me know I don’t like overpriced tiny books, but if said book offers something of value to the reader or at least fulfills its promise, I try to give it two scores, one for value and one for content. Unfortunately, this is one that a single rating will cover both. At $12 for approximately 100 pages, I expected a lot. This book was a disappointment, as it followed a reporter, Ken and a self-important homeless man/conman, DC. None of the characters nor the plot are compelling or even interesting. In addition, the book is more about DC’s god complex than about the arson. One out of five stars.

2012 Maya End Date: A New Beginning by Edward Dayne Curry
Who hasn’t wondered what is in store for 2012? Are the prophecies real or hype? As the infamous date draws nearer, people either get more anxious or apathetic. For me, I don’t really worry about it one way or another because there are bigger forces than me at work and my only function is to handle what unfolds in life. That being said, being a history buff and having an innate curiosity about life and the world, I do enjoy reading all the theories and stories. In 2012 Maya End Date, Curry combines history and prophecy, fact and fiction. Curry has done his research and it shows. He is also an excellent story teller, so the reader feels like they are reading about real people and events; not something created in Curry’s mind. A compelling read. 4.5 out of five stars.

Monday Reviews

The Riddle of Berlin by Cym Lowell
Lowell has written a very ambitious first novel. Riddle of Berlin is an intellectual thriller. There are terrorist, inept politicians, international intrigue and numerous satellite characters. At times it feels as though Lowell has tried to be too ambitious by throwing in too many plot twists. At times it feels like it loses its focus, or maybe as a reader I lost focus. This is one of those stories where if it were a movie you would want lots of commercials, because the plot is so complex that if you miss even a second you will be completely lost and have to start over. Overall a decent first novel and it will be interesting to see if the next novel offers more cohesiveness. 3.5 out of five stars.

Hidden Truths by Brenda Youngerman
Emotions run the gamut in this book that follows the lives of four children as they grow to adulthood. Two sets of siblings raised separately in very different environments. This book is about life and the journey it takes you on. One of Youngerman’s biggest strengths is that she gets the human psyche and when she writes not only do you feel like a fly on the wall but you become totally invested in her characters. It is a true gift to be able to put your reader into your character’s mind when the reader would normally not be able to relate. Often I read books that I just cannot get into because I can’t relate to any of the characters. With Hidden truths, I don’t relate to any of the characters but because of Youngerman’s skill, I became invested in their lives. This is not an easy read, it’s raw, it’s emotional, it is real. 4.5 out of five stars.

The Final War and 3001: Birth of a Political Renaissance by Priscilla Herochik
What if greed was so pervasive in politics and religion that corrupt religious leaders and inept narcissistic politicians caused the downfall of the world? Oh wait, we are already living in that world. This book is like two books in one. The first part leading up to a nuclear event and the second half is about what the world can become in the aftermath. Although there are an abundance of religious and political undertones, this book isn’t about either of those. It’s more about mankind’s destructive and self-serving nature and how future generations can simplify and rebuild what current generations destroy. There is a lot of drama in this book and although long, it is a relatively easy read. Four out of five stars,

Issa: The Greatest Story Never Told by Lois Drake
We know very little about the teenage years of Jesus (Issa). Drake gives us one possible accounting of those missing years. The beautiful thing about this story is that it gives us a logical journey not one biased by rhetoric or traditional dogma. Anyone who knows teenagers knows they have a natural curiosity. Issa would be no different and because of his benevolent nature it is easy to see his friends and him learning different cultures. Four out of five stars.

Tuesday is for Romance.... sort of...

As I catch up with my reviews of books sent to me, today I’m going to share some love with twists….

Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze
What would happen if you lived your life on the run, something unexpected happens and you no longer remember you are supposed to be hiding? That is the dilemma faced by Kelly in Forget Me Not. Part murder, part drama, part action, part romance and part spirituality, Hinze has brought all the elements together in a spellbinding tale that will have you asking yourself, “how strong is my faith?” Forget Me Knot starts out a little confusing, leaving many unanswered questions. One being, “should I keep reading?” Hang in there, because the dots do start converging and you will be hooked, flying through the pages until all the questions arre answered. Despite the rough start, Hinze has woven a superb tale of suspense. Four out of five stars. This book was provided by Waterbrook Mulnomah Publishing.

Lucifer’s Last Lover by Dana Warryck
Ok, first of all you have to love the title; it screams classic bodice ripper. In a way it is a classic romance told in a new way with the last character you think of as romantic.

What if Satan walked among us and was nothing like what we have been taught to believe? What if everything we know about good and evil is wrong? Those are the premises behind Warryck’s book. After thousands of years being reviled and having casual dalliances, Lucas Santani (aka Lucifer) has finally met a woman that makes him feel human, but there are forces working against them. This book is a fun romp, but I think I enjoyed the “what if” religious connotations more than the romance. An interesting read, however if you are super religious this is one you should pass on as it will probably offend those who follow popular religious doctrine. Personally, I found it intriguing and a fresh look at an age old subject, even if a little over dramatic. 3.5 out of five stars. This book was provided by Penumbra Publishing.

Lover Avenged by J.R. Ward
Ward has given us another delectable view into the world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. I have to admit Ward is one of my go to authors. I read a lot of books, different types of books. However, when I want a book I know is going to be packed with action, scintillating interpersonal connections, a touch of romance and a dash of the paranormal, there is less than a handful of authors that I grab. Because let’s face it, sometimes we just want a guaranteed great read. Ward never disappoints me. I love the Brotherhood series. The characters continue to evolve, the action propels you through the story and the books are long. Really long, yet I always end up finishing them the same day I start them. It takes a good author to make nearly 650 pages feel like 100; where on the last page you are saying, “What? That’s it? But I want more!”

Lover Avenged tells the story of Rehvenge. He may be a vampire but he’s also half sympath and is forced to keep that part of his identity secret. It is hard to live a life where you must hide who you are. For Ehlena, who has given up her life to take care of her ailing father, she hates everything Rehv stands for but finds herself drawn to him. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles standing in their way? If you are familiar with Ward’s style, you know the answer won’t be simple. Five out of five stars. Purchased

Reviews

The Khan Dilemma by Ron Goodreau
Why would a murderer with the still smoking gun charge the only witness instead of killing him? Why does the FBI show up before the bodies have cooled and the local police arrive at the scene? What is the Muslim factor? These are all questions , prosecutor, Max Siegel, is trying to find the answers to. With no help from his boss, interference from the government and each answer leading to more questions, will Max solve the case and get the real bad guys or will he get a toe tag and an extended stay in the morgue? Goodreau has written a compelling political thriller with more twist than a tornado. Excellently written. Four out of five stars.

Keys to the Condo by Danny D. Langone
Keys to the Condo is a book of life through poems. Langone takes us on a journey through life with his wonderfully insightful poetry. He brings the events of his life into focus with prose that will have you reminiscing about your own life. This book is written so simply and flows so well that even those who don’t normally read traditional poetry will enjoy it. To get in touch with the rhythm of life pick up a copy of Keys to the Condo. It would also make an excellent gift with Mother’s & Father’s day just around the corner. 4.5 out of five stars.

Virtually Dead by Peter May
What happens when life and virtual art mirror each other? People end up virtually dead in both lives. May gives us the story of Michael, a forensic photographer, who like many in our world, finds a way to cope with his grief by escaping into an online world. When Michael begins to build his character in the virtual world of Second Life, he realizes that the murders in Second Life and in real life are mirroring each other. May expertly moves from one world to the other without losing the reader in all the twists and turns. A very well written mystery. Five out of five stars.

More Mini Reviews

Gold Digger Nation: Why You Should Remain Single by Hal Roback

Sadly, in our modern society this book should be a must read for anyone contemplating marriage. Yes, the title implies that marriage is a bad thing and you can trust no one. But really, this book is an advocate of a true loving and trusting relationship. This book isn’t a man stereotyping women type read. Gold Diggers comes in both genders and all sexual orientations. What this book is, is a resource that will open your eyes to your, as well as others motives, in all your relationships, romantic and otherwise. Four out of five stars.

Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male by Philip Nork

When you read the title you instantly assume this is a self-help book and boy do I know some men who need this. However, Nork has written a very poignant coming of age story about a boy’s journey to manhood with an absent father figure and a strong woman in his life as a role model. It is through the telling of the story that the lessons in sensitivity are shared. These lessons could be universal. We should all strive to be more caring and nurturing individuals. Four out of five stars.

Change Your Mindset, Not Your Man: Learn to Love What’s Right Instead of Trying to Fix What’s Wrong by Sally B. Watkins

Although we may be loath to admit it, we are all guilty of wanting to change something about someone we love. As we mature, most of us hopefully realize that the only person we can change is ourselves. Therefore when you are invested in another person it is best to learn to embrace all of who they are. As women, we have a bad tendency of sabotaging out relationships because we need to “fix” the other person. Watkins shows us ourselves and teaches us how to look at why we react the way we do, what we are feeling and how we affect others. While this book sets out to help with your relationship with a significant other, it can help you with all your relationships, including the one with yourself. 4.5 out of five stars.

 
 

Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs

Although set in a different time a place this book reminds me of a movie series called Love Comes Softly. It is a story that portrays the good and the bad of human nature, Higgs could have been a fly on the wall in the lives of real people of the day because her story and characters portray a unparallel depth. Set in Scotland in the 1700’s, the story takes many of it’s elements from the Book of Ruth in the Bible. The story centers around a mother and daughter- the secrets they must keep, the trials and tribulations they must face and conquer. Through the joys and pains, losses and redemptions, they will find hope. Five out of five stars.

Watch the video provided by Waterbrook Multnomah:


 
All of these books were provided by the authors or publishers.

Reviews

Deadly Codes by JP O’Donnell

Deadly Code revolves around private investigator, Gallagher. He is torn between finding a new career to ease his new bride’s mind and continuing to do what is in his blood, investigating. This book reminded me of the classic private detective stories but with modern twists. When asked to look into the death of a woman’s sisters, Gallagher will discover things are never what they seem. A fast paced non-stop action ride with superbly written characters. Four out of five stars.

The Life O’Reilly by Brian Cohen

Nick O’Reilly is a successful attorney, enjoying all the perks that life has to offer. When his firm starts doing pro bono work to improve their image, he gets a case that will change how he looks at life. The case is a young mother, Dawn, and her son trying to find refuge and protection from her abusive husband. In this gripping legal drama, Nick will discover what is really important in life and an unexpected love. The characters and plot are so well written by Cohen, he takes you on the gamut of emotions and then he leaves you believing in the goodness in mankind and the power of love. Five out of five stars.

The Liberation of Henry Belmont by Steve Godofsky

The Liberation of Henry Belmont is one of those short books that packs the punch of a 600 page epic novel. Reading this, I was reminded of those movies where multiple stories are told, then the story brings them all together. The story reminds you that everything we do affects so many others that we are not aware of. The expertly written characters are real; you get to see all sides of human nature. 4.5 out of five stars.

The Chimera Seed by Matthew Tully

What would you do if you had discovered and controlled the fountain of youth? That is the question Michael must face when he inherits his father’s business. With twists that could have come straight from current headlines, Tully has created an action packed tale full of intriguing characters and impressive scientific data. This is a scientific political thriller at its best. Tully gives you tons of details, yet never lets it interfere with the energy of the plot. This book is sometimes graphic, sometimes gritty but with an underlying dose of realism. You won’t be able to put it down. Five out of five stars.

All of these books were provided by the authors.

Winners & Reviews

First of all, Let me say thank you to everyone who stopped by for last week’s Irish festivities. I picked up an extra pin so I have two winners. B. Miller and Tami are the winners. Please email me your mailing address and I’ll get them out to you.

This week I will be posting a few days of multiple many reviews, starting today.

101 Glam Girl Ways To An Ultra Chic Lifestyle by Dawn Del Russo

A better title for this tiny book would have been The Pocket Guide to Common Sense Glam. It contains 101 one sentence or phrase tips accompanied by a simple illustration. The tips are good tips, but they are also common sense, such as wear deodorant, wear what you love, etc. While I appreciate the presentation and the tips have value, I can’t endorse a book that literally is so small that it takes up less space than a wallet but costs more. For accomplishing its title- 4 out of 5 stars. For value and practicality (i.e. is it worth the price?)- 1 out of five stars.

The Channel: Stories from L.A. Susan Alcott Jardine

Everyone has an opinion about “LA”, whether you live there, have visited or just know it by reputation. Jardine has given us a collection of stories that not only captures the heart of LA, but it captures life. A refreshingly real read. Four out of five stars.

100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go by Susan Van Allen

For a guide written for women, it has a universal appeal. The way Allen guides you thorugh the must see attractions of Italy will have you dreaming of embarking on a traveling adventure while listening to your stomach rumble with anticipation for the delectable food she describes. This guide is all about the fantasy trip, she also offers plenty of practical advice. So pick up this book, dust off your passport and let the journey begin. Five out of five stars.

Size Eight in a Size Zero World by Meredith Cagen

Reviewing this book I am torn. The book is technically well written and I can see a lot of potential form this author. However, this particular story did nothing for me (maybe because I was expecting a light hearted, humorous tale). The book is about a NYC woman. Lindsey is a wife and mother who also has a career, which is a rarity in the Upper east Side. She is married to a high-profile attorney, who when he is working long hours tends to be self absorbed, condescending and demands peace and quiet when he is home. Lindsey feels lonely and unappreciated until she meets and falls for a player in her building that pays attention to her. By the time she finally decides to leave her loveless marriage and narcissistic affair you are just glad the story is over. Maybe it’s me, but I just could not feel for any of the characters and therefore did not like the book even though I thought the style in which it was written would have grabbed me if the characters/subject had been different. If you love The Real Housewives type shows, you will probably enjoy this book. For the way it is written- 3.5 out of five stars. For reading enjoyment (personally) two out of five stars.

All of these books were provided by the authors.

O’ Shaughnessey: The Faerie Circle by Jeremy McGuire

“The Five-senses-world is a small island in a vast ocean of all we do not know and cannot see; in that ocean, there may be faeries.”

(Taken from the back cover of the book.)

The leprechaun, O’Shaughnessy was first introduced to the world in O’Shaughnessey: A Boy and His Leprechaun. But like all children, the boy in that first book grew up. In The Faerie Circle, Bobby Mahoney is grown and can no longer see leprechauns. The Faerie Circle is the story of Bobby’s twelve year old daughter, Margaret. Margaret is an old soul; she may only be twelve but she acts much wiser than her years. Can a trip to Ireland allow Bobby to get his Sight back? Will the Irish storyteller, Moira, be able to show Margaret that there is a magical world the logical one doesn’t know exists?

McGuire is a master storyteller and has woven the perfect tae of leprechauns, the faerie realm and the heart of Ireland’s mystical world. This is a magical book for young and old alike; a timeless tale to be passed down for generations. If you don’t believe in the “Invisible World”, read this book and you will become a believer! This book is the pot of gold at the end of O’Shaughnessey’s rainbow. Five out of five shamrocks!!

Be sure to check out his website and blog. His posts are inspired!!
(Black and white pictures are illustrations from the book.)

Fireside with McGuire and O'Shaughnessey

This book was provided by the author. In the paperwork for the press kit was this wonderful quote:

“We are the dream-weavers, the myth-makers, the chroniclers of our world with all its joy and sorrow, mystery and magic. Of all creatures on this globe, we are the only storytellers.”

Here is an audio interview of Jeremy McGuire with BlogTalkRadio: Click here.

This St. Patrick’s Day May Your World Be Filled With All The Magic Ireland Inspires!!

The Circle of Friends by L. Diane Wolfe

L. Diane Wolfe has written a five book series of young adult books that chronicles a group of friends as they transition into adulthood. This series has some powerful messages for the youth of today. As a reader many years removed from this demographic, what I love most about these books is that they transported me back to that time in my own life.

Book I – Lori-

Lori is the first book in the Circle of Friends series. It introduces us to a group of high school students as they meet, mature and deal with what life can through at someone. The story of this book centers around Lori, a shy smart young woman determined to win a gold medal in swimming at the Olympics. Over the course of the book we see her face challenges, make new friends, struggle with existing ones and fall in love, all while never compromising her dream.

Book II – Sarah-
As the second book in the series, Sarah picks up in the middle of Lori’s timeframe. The reader gets to experience the events that overlap from another point of view, Sarah’s. Wolfe does an excellent job of repeating events without the story seeming repetitive. As we get inside Sarah’s head, we watch events unfold in a fresh new way. We understand more about the outgoing best friend we only got a glimpse of in Book I. In Sarah, we see the depth behind her personality and we get to watch her grow through her college years and her relationship with Matt.

Book III – James-
James has had a rough life, as we found out in Book I. In this book, we learn more about his brutal childhood. Not only does James have esteem issues to overcome, but he always seems to pick the wrong girl. We watch him struggle with himself, have his heart trampled then find strength in his friends and a devoted wife. But Wolfe doesn’t write sappy clichéd books, this couple will still face ongoing struggles, and we will watch then face those and not let the weight of their burdens bring them down.

Book IV – Mike-
Mike is a young man who is the picture of stability… on the outside. On the inside, he is struggling with doubts and guilt. Like so many of us in real life, Mike struggles with self-condemnation. He keeps a part of himself locked up because of his fear of rejection. Through the course of the book we will see is he is able to overcome these fears to truly let others in.

Book V – Heather-
We first met Heather in Book I and from the beginning she has been a force and for me, a favorite character. She never gives up no matter what life throws at her. Through her triumphs and struggles, she never loses who she is. It is a joy to watch her grow from Book I into the incredible woman she becomes in Book V. Her journey is not always easy, her determination never falters.



From the beginning, L. Diane Wolfe has given us realistic characters in compelling stories. The Circle of Friends Series is written in such a way as to make the reader a fly on the wall in the lives of these young adults. If you have teens in your life, these are excellent books for them to read. If you are past that stage but want something to send you back to memory lane or just want good uplifting dramas without the melodrama, then definitely pick up this series.

Books I-IV were purchased.
Heather, Book V was provided by the author.

Be sure to stop back here tomorrow for an interview with L. Diane Wolfe.

Dancing With My Father by Sally Clarkson and Mother-Daughter Duet by Cheri Fuller

Dancing With My Father by Sally Clarkson

Sally Clarkson set out to find the joy missing in her life by strengthening her relationship with God. In her book, Dancing With My Father, she sets out to teach us how to do this as well. While this book is geared toward the Christian woman, Clarkson chooses to use Daniel as one of her main focal points instead of any one of the dynamic women in the Bible. She includes great quotes and references from the Bible throughout as well as personal stories. What sets out to be part memoir, part Christian self-help loses some of its inspiration for me. Clarkson seems to want to write an inspirational book and yet at the same time be liked by everyone. She tends to waffles in her convictions, which at times leaves the reader to wonder what she really believes. For someone searching for a starting point to finding joy through a relationship with God, they may enjoy this book. Three of five stars.

Mother-Daughter Duet by Cheri Fuller (& her adult daughter, Ali Plum)

One of the toughest relationships is the one between mother and daughter. It can be the most strained and volatile and at the same time most rewarding. Throughout time mothers & daughters have worked to find a balance and understand each other. Cheri Fuller and her daughter, Ali, have given us an example of how with love and a commitment to communication a mother and daughter can find harmony.

Most mothers worry too much and subconsciously feel the need to control the life of their child. Most daughters, no matter how much they may love their mother, fear becoming her, so they rebel. Cheri and Ali show how it is possible to walk in each other’s shoes, yet not lose who they are. A great book for any mother and daughter who feel they are at an impasse in their relationship. Four out of five stars.

Both of these boos were provided by Water Brook Multnomah Publishing

The Last Surgeon by Michael Palmer

In true Michael Palmer fashion, The Last surgeon is spellbinding. Having read many of his books (and posting a few reviews last year), Palmer likes to pack a lot into his stories. Not just a lot of action, but many twists and unexpected connections. This latest book is no exception. Ride along with Nick and Junie, a doctor and nurse in a traveling RV that helps treat Vets and the homeless. Follow Jillian as she searches for answers in her sister’s supposed suicide. Get inside the mind of a hired killer who lives for his work. Find out how a renowned plastic surgeon, a sardonic medical records clerk, a terrorist and a political candidate are all connected. Like in all of his stories, Palmer saturates your senses without overwhelming you. He keeps you glued to the page wondering what he will come up with next, yet infuses the story with realism so you become invested in the outcome of these characters. A mystery/thriller at its finest! Five out of five stars.

Join me in congratulating Michael on making the New York Times Best Seller List this week.
Ok, I admit, I’m a big fan of Michael Palmer’s books and have purchased most of them. So, it was a nice surprise to receive a signed ARC of this one from the man himself. In the accompanying letter he has promised a signed copy for one of my readers. If you would like the chance to win this fabulous book then leave a comment with a question for the author.

Be sure to check out his website for a glimpse of all his titles and great tips for authors.

For reviews of Silent Treatment and The Fifth Vial (one of my very first review posts) click here.

Die Smart: Consumer Reference Guide to Death and Dying by Kathy Lane and Christine Hughes

Death, a subject most don’t want to think about much less openly discuss and plan for. Unfortunately if you have family or simply don’t want the state to end up with everything you have worked in your life for, it’s something you should think about and plan for.


Death is a complicated. Even for those who don’t have much in the form of an estate, need to do a little planning. This book is a great starter. It guides you in the right direction. The companion website also has wonderful tools to help you protect your family and assets. No book is going to give you all the answers because each situation is completely different. This book will show you what you need to know to head in the right direction. Four out of five stars.

This book was provided by the authors.

The Transition: Winning in the 4th Quarter of Life by Dennis Niewoehner

While I’m still in the 2nd quarter of my life (even though sometimes I feel like I’m in the 4th quarter), when I look at the current political, social and economic climate, I know I need to plan for my future security now. Niewoehner’s The Transition: Winning in the 4th Quarter of Life offers excellent advise for the retirement generation. It is also a great resource for all generations. When we are young, we think we have all the time in the world; we’ll start planning “tomorrow”. No matter what stage of planning one is in, this book offers sound advise for making the transition from one stage of life to another smoother. 4.5 out of five stars.


This book was provided by the author.

Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Memory Loss by Monica Vest

There are millions of diseases out there, but few are as heart wrenching and devastating as Alzheimer’s and Dementia. When it comes to our minds, few prospects scare us as much as the thought of losing ours. For anyone who has dealt with a loved one who has suffered from one of these diseases of the mind, you know how hard it can be. These illnesses don’t just affect the victim, they affect everyone around them.


Having experienced how Alzheimer’s, Dementia and memory loss has affected those I love and the people around them, I know how hopeless and lost everyone involved can feel. In her book, Monica Vest has taken some of the despair out of these diseases. She gives practical information and advice. She offers wonderful tips that will help all of those involved communicate more smoothly by understanding all sides and perspectives. This book is an excellent resource for anyone whose life is touched by these diseases. Five out of five stars.

This book was provided by the author.

Dual review- Your Best Body Now by Ashley Marriot and Love Your Body, Love Your Life by Sarah Maria

We all know New Year Resolutions don’t work. Almost everyone who makes them, breaks them. Two of the most common resolutions are to lose weight and to exercise more. One doesn’t need to make a resolution at the beginning of each. Did you make one of those? Now that we are midway into February, how is that working for you? I didn’t make any resolutions, don’t believe in them, but have been making some lifestyle changes. That’s the key; we need to make changes in out lifestyle. Let’s look at two books that say they can help us do just that.

Your Best Body Now by Ashley Marriot
Marriot teaches you about the different body types and what type of regiment will work best for each. With clear directions, she covers programs for those who go to the gym as well as those more comfortable working out at home. She doesn’t glamorize it or make promises of instant success. She gives a realistic approach that stresses if you want the results you must commit to doing the work.

Love Your Body, Love Your Life by Sarah Maria
Maria takes a different approach; she gives you a workout for your psyche as opposed to yet another exercise boo. She addresses a problem that plagues American women of all ages, from young girls to women in their golden years. We have become a nation of women who loathe the way we look because out society sends us a steady stream of artificial perfection. Ideals no human can achieve. This negative body image that we develop for ourselves is self-sabotaging and prevents us from truly loving our body and taking care of it the way we should. Marie teaches us to identify those negative thoughts and look at them objectively. She teaches us how to reprogram our thinking and transform ourselves into a body we love.


Both of these books advocate change and both realistically stress that change takes time. They both offer sound advice and guidelines to help you lead a healthier, happier life. While each boo has merit on its own, they would also make great companions. They are assets to anyone wanting to improve their health. There are no miracles promised here. No one can change overnight. You must do the work but to truly change one must work on both their actions and their thoughts. One without the other can lead to short term results only. I give both of these books four out of five stars.

Both books were provided by the authors.