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Sandy's Spotlight - BOOK REVIEWS - The Hay Fort by Judith Ann McDowell

6/28/2012

9 Comments

 

Sandy's Spotlight
Book Reviews
The Hay Fort and Fated Memories
by
Judith Ann McDowell

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Book:  The Hay Fort
Author:  Judith Ann McDowell
Genre:  Paranormal (Ghosts, Witches, Demons)
Length:  Approximately 241 pages


The following is my June 28, 2012, 4 Star Review:

Boys will by boys.

In THE HAY FORT by JUDITH ANN McDOWELL, we are introduced to fourteen-year-old cousins, Willie and Butch.  They've built a hay fort in an effort to have a place where no one can find them.  In other words, they have a place where they can be boys and do the things that boys do, such as drink the occasional beer, without the prying eyes of adults. 

In the distance, a very large old house is in view and being boys, they just can't help but to explore.  Unfortunately for them, they are unaware of the rumors about this old house that have been circulating through the town and its inhabitants for many years.  The boys come across some jars that look something like grandma used to use when she made jelly.  They would soon find out that the contents of the jars holds something so frightening, so disturbing, that it would put their lives in danger from a source so dark, so scary, so menacing that they would be forced to grow up much sooner than they should.

I'm all about paranormal books, especially when the paranormal aspect is ghosts and demons.  I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was entertained throughout.  While looking at the tags for this book, I see "Young Adult".  I would not hesitate to have my sixteen-year-old granddaughter read this book, but if you are purchasing this book for someone younger than sixteen, you may want to read it first.  There is some subject matter that is very adult in content and you may feel it is too adult for anyone younger than sixteen.  In my opinion, anyone sixteen or older would enjoy this book a lot.  I had a difficult time putting it down.  When I did have to put it down, I couldn't wait to get back to it.


The Hay Fort Blurb:
When teens Willie and Butch Coby stumble on some filled jars in an old abandoned bus they have no idea what they are inviting by taking the jars away. Not until their biology teacher checks out what the jars contain do they begin to realize some adventures can cost you your life or worse turn that life into a living nightmare.

Let all who know the name of the beast... Give up his name for he will not hold back his wrath against a child of the most holy.


*****
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From time to time, as a reader, we are lucky enough to find a book that touches something deep in our hearts.  I reviewed FATED MEMORIES by JUDITH ANN McDOWELL a year ago, and I find that I still think about it and the emotional reaction it caused in me.

Book:  Fated Memories
Author:  Judith Ann McDowell
Genre:  Literary Fiction (women's and historical/western)
Length:  Approximately 311 pages

The following is my June 10, 2011 5 Star Review:

This book will take your breath away. Literally. I found myself holding my breath throughout the book and audibly gasping from time to time. It was beautifully written. On rare occasions, an author can create a character that makes you feel like hugging them to make it all better and kicking their butt all at the same time. THIS IS A MUST READ, but be prepared for a gut wrenching look at the lives of these characters.


BARNES AND NOBLE PURCHASE LINK

Fated Memories Blurb:
Jessie Thornton, the beautiful, only child of Eathen Thornton, one of the richest most powerful men in the state of Montana has never heard the word "no" until she sets her sights on Two Spirits, a young Blackfeet Indian her father has hired onto the ranch to tame the wild mustangs brought down out of the hills.

In her struggle to be with the man she loves, Jessie soon finds herself fightng an uphill battle against 1903 Montana morals and small-town bigotry.


AUTHOR LINKS:
Author Website
Goodreads
Amazon Author Page
Facebook

9 Comments

Sandy's Spotlight - BOOK REVIEWS - 2 Books by Ann Swann

6/23/2012

11 Comments

 

Sandy's Spotlight
BOOK REVIEWS
The Phantom Pilot and Chems
by
Ann Swann

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Click on the book cover to read an excerpt
Book:  The Phantom Pilot
Author:  Ann Swann
Genre:  YA, Paranormal
Length:  Novella


The following is my June 22, 2012, 5 Star Review:

A trip back in time.

This is the second book I've read by ANN SWANN and I'm a huge fan.  Ms. Swann has the ability to catapult the reader back in time and make us feel as though our somewhat older brains are working on a 12 year-old-level again.  This is not an easy task, but she does it with such ease and finesse, and beautifully descriptive writing that it's easy for the reader to get lost in her stories.  I've had such fun reading her short story, CHEMS, and this novella, THE PHANTOM PILOT.  I've found that while reading her work, I can close my eyes and picture the town and feel the era again that she has described so divinely. 

Twelve-year-old Stevie needs a friend.   Her classmate, Jase, needs a friend that he can talk to without being judged.  Jase gathers the courage to share a story he's written, The Shepherd, with Stevie about paranormal events that has happened to him.  They come together and between the two of them help three trapped and mourning ghosts move on.

This is a truly touching story and I'm really excited to tell you that by the ending, it sounds as though Ms. Swann has left room for a sequel.  I sure hope so.  I'd love to read more about these kids and the circumstances they find themselves in.  I highly recommend this book for anyone that enjoys a good ghost story.  While this is a YA novella, this book is good for any age group.  By taking us back in time, Ms. Swann has the ability to flawlessly pull even us older kids into the story.

Barnes and Noble Purchase Link

The Phantom Pilot Blurb:
What do you do when a phantom needs your help?

A small plane crashes into Jase's backyard, and before long, he realizes the ghost of the pilot is haunting him. Jase needs help to rid himself of this supernatural visitor. When he sees his friend, Stevie, entering the town's legendary haunted house, he's certain she's the one who will have the answer to his problem. But will she help him? Would you?


*****
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Book:  Chems
Author:  Ann Swann
Genre:  Horror (Zombies), Dark Comedy, YA
Length:  Short Story


The following is my April 2012, 5 Star Review:

My very first Zombie read and I LOVED it!

This is the first Zombie book I've ever ventured to read and I'm so glad I did! I absolutely loved ANN SWANN's writing style. In CHEMS, Ann Swann was able to convey humor, fear and gore in a short story that left me wanting for nothing.

The way Ms. Swann wrote the thoughts and dialog for an eighth-grade boy reminded me of Stephen King's writing style in his novel Christine. She was able to transport me seamlessly back to that time in my life with the boy's thoughts and feelings. They were absolutely spot on.

I fully intend to read more of Ms. Swann's work. I have highly recommended this book to family members and friends. Even if you are not a zombie person, you'll enjoy this read.

Chems Blurb:
WARNING! Not your typical zombie story.  This one is more about the boy who encounters the chemical zombie. If that doesn't interest you, then this story isn't for you... In this 7,200 word short story, Billy discovers a chemical zombie hiding in his dad's toolshed.  Can he devise a way to keep the whole thing secret in order to help find, and destroy, a rogue CHEM named Z ?

*****

Author Links:
Author Website
Author Blog
Twitter

Goodreads
Facebook
Amazon Author Page
11 Comments

Sandy's Spotlight - BOOK REVIEWS - 2 Romance Books by Sharon Buchbinder

6/20/2012

12 Comments

 

Sandy's Spotlight
BOOK REVIEWS
Killer Kisses and
Desire and Deception
by
Sharon Buchbinder

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Book:  Killer Kisses
Author:  Sharon Buchbinder
Genre:  Romance Anthology - 7 Stories - Sub-Genres: Contemporary, Paranormal, Erotic
Length:  308 Pages


The following is my June 20, 2012, 5 Star Review:

A romance lover's jackpot!

KILLER KISSES by SHARON BUCHBINDER has a little of everything in it.  This book contains seven stories ranging in length from very short story to novella.  The heat level is anywhere from steaming hot to sweet and endearing.  The sub-genres take you from Contemporary to Paranormal.  There is literally something for everyone in this book.  If you want a great sampling of several different romance sub-genres, KILLER KISSES is the perfect choice!

I love being swept up in a romance and I really enjoyed reading each story in KILLER KISSES.  Without taking anything away from the rest of the stories because I really enjoyed them all, I've decided that the best way to review this book is to tell you a little about my favorite story in KILLER KISSES,  Release Your Inner Wild Women: Kiss of the Silver Wolf.  This is a novella length story that I couldn't wait to start.  It is a beautifully written paranormal romance with some AMAZING steam.  For all of you werewolf lovers out there, I highly recommend this book.

Charlene's parents are killed in a car crash while she is away at school.  Her life will never be the same.  She dedicates herself to giving her severely handicapped older brother the care and attention he needs.  She finds herself broke, unable to keep up with the expense of her older brother's disabilities and relocates to her mother's home town of Eden where she uncovers secret after secret and finally has an answer to her brother's condition.

Zach, the soon-to-be leader of the pack, has had his eye on Charlene since he saw her picture.  The first time they meet is at the funeral for Charlene's parents.  Even though it is a terribly sad scene, the electricity between Zach and Charlene is unforgettable.

Ms. Buchbinder has several twists in KISS OF THE SILVER WOLF and introduces Charlene to some frighteningly dangerous creatures that has the reader holding their breath hoping that she's saved in time.

If you love romance, I highly recommend that you download the anthology KILLER KISSES by SHARON BUCHBINDER to have ready anytime you have a few spare moments to read.  You won't be disappointed!


Killer Kisses Blurb:

Killer Kisses is a collection of Sharon Buchbinder's tales, ranging from contemporary, short and chaste to paranormal, long and spicy.

In A Peck on the Cheek: Hurricane Jason, a female private investigator searches for a two-timing husband, but lands in an hurricane shelter. Does she get her man?

In Cat Nips: Catastrophe, a crazy cat lady is evicted by her drunken landlord and the lives of her cats are at stake. Will she and her rescues wind up on the street? Or will a secret admirer find a better home for everyone?

In Hot Lips: Lake Placid Cure, a woman finds her husband in a compromising position--again. Looking to recover her dignity, she sets out for a medi-spa, encounters a murder mystery and discovers that miracles still happen in Lake Placid.

In French Kiss: Pigmalion, a speech pathology graduate student needs one more subject for her research project to graduate. She runs into a hot guy with a heavy accent and tries to recruit him into her study. Will she teach him the language of love?

In Sizzling Smooch: Bonded for Life, a Mexican artist runs for her life to hide in the little town where she graduated from high school. She's convinced no one will find her there. But a boy with a high school crush on her grew up to be a hunky cop--and he has her in his cross hairs.

In Delectable and Delicious: An Inn Decent Proposal, a chef and a hotelier join forces at a foreclosure auction on an old inn and outbid a small time hood. The thug doesn't like being on the losing end of the deal. Things heat up outside and in the bedroom. Can the couple make a go of it? Or will the hood destroy their dream?

In Release Your Inner Wild Women: Kiss of the Silver Wolf, a young woman searches for the truth about her brother's debilitating disease. An intriguing man with silver hair and a penchant for long night runs insists she's his life mate. How does this sexy man figure into her family secrets?

*Professionally Edited: Full Novel Sized


*****
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Book:  Desire and Deception
Author:  Sharon Buchbinder
Genre:  Erotic Romance, Erotic Romantic Suspense, Erotic Romantic Thriller
Length:  Novel


The following is my June 20, 2012, 4 Star Review:

SMOKIN' HOT!

There is so much happening in DESIRE AND DECEPTION by SHARON BUCHBINDER that I feel I could write a review that is five pages long.  The momentum just keeps building and building throughout the book.  The story line keeps getting more and more complex as you go.  If you like your sex scenes smokin' hot, your suspense edge of your seat, and your thrillers fast paced, this is a book you will thoroughly enjoy.

Sarah Wright-Rosen is a professional woman working at the local college.  What I liked so much about Sarah is the growth this character went through in the book.  She started out a little wimpy but grew into a strong, fierce woman that when faced in a dangerous situation, stood her ground and even pulled her gun when needed.

I had a problem with Dan, Sarah's husband.  I'm still not sure I like him very much.  He is a busy, good looking doctor that seemed to me, selfish and demanding when it came to his opinions and needs.  Through a series of events in the book that made me want to kick his butt, he was forced to back down from some of his opinions and support his wife and the remarkable circumstances she found herself in or possibly lose her.

Then we have Izzy, the princess of a Mexican crime boss.  What a great character!  She works as a professor at the college Sarah works at, and they are best friends.  Polar opposites really do attract.  Sarah, being such a nice person, Izzy is her exact opposite.  She is spoiled and deadly.  As you get further into this story, you start to learn of the deplorable acts perpetrated against Izzy as a child and the reader gets some insight into why she is the person she is and why she likes her sex rough and under her control.  I really enjoyed the interaction between these characters because I felt, through Ms. Buchbinder's writing, Izzy was in some way reaching out to Sarah to get a little normalcy.  I truly believe that although Izzy would make fun of Sarah, she also felt drawn to her because she knew Sarah was the one person that she could count on for anything.

I must say that one of my favorite characters in this book was Dan's mother, Gert.  We met this eccentric older woman a couple of times.  She is a bright humorous spot in this book that takes some very dark turns. 

I went into this book blind.  I had not read any reviews because I like the book to unfold for me as I read it.  I am totally blown away with the direction this book took.  Without giving any of the plot away, I must say that never in my wildest dreams would I have thought an erotic book would have such an interesting intricate plot and be so full of twists and turns.  This was a really great read!


Barnes and Noble Purchase Link

Desire and Deception Blurb:

Pampered princess and daughter of a Mexican crime boss, Isabel (Izzy) Ramirez is a newly appointed assistant professor working toward tenure and promotion. Driven by voracious desires, including ambition for advancement in the legitimate world and lust for her boy toy, Izzy’s house of cards is threatened when the department chair confronts her about a major transgression. Izzy’s take no prisoners approach means she makes sure her boss can never expose her deceptions.

Graduate assistant and guy-on-the-side, Sean Richards wants Izzy to leave her sleazy husband. If she would only get away from that crook, he’s convinced that he can bring out the better woman who exists beneath Izzy’s tough sex siren exterior. He adores his hot blooded Latina and will do her bidding--up to a point. Despite the mind blowing sex, he can’t and won’t murder for her.

As Izzy’s nosy parker friend and colleague doggedly follows an obscure trail of clues about the department chair’s death, Izzy is forced to choose between reverting to the ways of her unredeemable father--or becoming the extraordinary woman she sees in Sean’s loving eyes.

To My Readers:

In DESIRE and DECEPTION, polar opposites sex siren Isabel (Izzy) Ramirez and goody-two-shoes Sarah Wright-Rosen become fast friends and seem destined to be BFFs until Izzy’s terrible secret is unearthed--literally and figuratively. Convinced that she is unworthy of redemption, Izzy goes down a take no prisoners’ path, halted only by her younger lover, Sean Richards. Izzy discovers the redemptive power of love and realizes that she can change, despite her horrific past. For her part, Sarah discovers shades of gray in her formerly black and white world and learns the powers of forgiveness and love can transform not only how she sees the world, but also her own self-image.

In the end, Izzy becomes more like “good girl” Sarah--and Sarah becomes more like her “bad girl” friend. Izzy is the larger than life embodiment of all that is forbidden to “good girls”: she embraces her sexuality and desires and takes control of her life and the men in it--and pleases herself. Sarah is “everywoman”: she works hard, plays by the rules, collaborates and works by consensus--and wants to please others. This binary, yes/no reasoning is faulty, but I believe many of us struggle with this duality in our lives. As seen with Izzy and Sarah, with love and an honest relationship we can grow into who we want to be, not who we think we should be. On behalf of Izzy and Sarah (who have been badgering me for quite some time now), I hope you enjoy this story.


Links for Sharon Buchbinder:
Author website
Blog
Twitter
Goodreads
Facebook
Amazon Author Page

12 Comments

Sandy's Spotlight - BOOK REVIEW - When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read by Pamela Sisman Bitterman

6/13/2012

4 Comments

 

Sandy's Spotlight
BOOK REVIEW
When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read
by
Pamela Sisman Bitterman

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Click on book cover to visit author website
Book:  When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read
Author:  Pamela Sisman Bitterman
Genre:  Children's Book - Non-Fiction Picture Book


The following is my June 13, 2012, 5 Star review:

Please pick this book up!  The message is too important to pass by.

My policy is that I DO NOT review children's books.  I did, however, make an exception for WHEN THIS IS OVER, I WILL GO TO SCHOOL, AND I WILL LEARN TO READ by PAMELA SISMAN BITTERMAN.  The title hooked me and I just had to find out what this book was all about.

This book was born from the travels of Ms. Sisman Bitterman to Kenya and her interactions with the people there.  It is a true story with pictures of a Kenyon orphan that broke my heart, from this child's bleak living and health situation to the true spirit of human kindness and selflessness of those there to help.  It brings tears to my eyes just writing this review and thinking of those children and the deplorable life situation they find themselves in.  "There but by the grace of God, go I."  Even after losing parents that are supposed to protect and cherish these children and the horrible illnesses many of them face, this book reflects the child's vision of hope for the future.  It takes my breath away.

Excerpt taken from the Author's Notes at the end of the book: "I have promised the children of the village the proceeds from the publication of this book.  They trust me.  And they wait."

I encourage all parents to purchase this book for their children or their children's children.  Who knows?  Maybe one of them will be the next in line to offer their time and skills to help the children of Kenya.  Wouldn't that be wonderful?  Please take a moment and pick this book up and help spread the word about it.

WHEN THIS IS OVER, I WILL GO TO SCHOOL, AND I WILL LEARN TO READ by PAMELA SISMAN BITTERMAN has been awarded the following prestigious first prize children's book awards:   The Gold Seal CBC Award and the Smart Writ Book Award.


When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read Book Trailer:

Purchase information and blurb:

Barnes and Noble
When This is Over, I will Go To School, And I will Learn To Read Blurb:
No one knows the story of Kenya better than the children who live it. I had the opportunity to travel to this country and become immersed with the families there. The result is a1500-word nonfiction picture book titled, "When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read": A Story of Hope and Friendship for One Young Kenyan Orphan. This true story of one little boy is told in his own words. While there are many books about Africa on the market, none are told from a child's point of view like this one.

The children from the village created the book's illustrations. I asked these students to draw what represented family, love, happiness, sadness, fear and hope for them. I have powerful photographs of the children, the school, the village and the countryside, the hospital, the mobile clinic and orphan program. It is this truth that is certain to nudge the hearts and minds of parents, teachers and children everywhere.


*****

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Sandy's Spotlight - BOOK REVIEWS - 10 Short Stories by Various Authors

6/12/2012

22 Comments

 

Sandy's Spotlight
Book Reviews
10 Short Stories
by Various Authors

As most of you know, I am an avid reader.  My husband and I went on a short vacation this past weekend and I made sure my Kindle was loaded with short stories.  I love to read, but once I start a book, I hate having to put it down before I'm ready.  The perfect solution is to read a short story or some flash fiction.  Every time I had a spare minute, I'd pick up a new short story and be completely fulfilled after reading it.  I know I've said this before, but I can't believe the talent of some of these authors.  It still amazes me that they can tell a really good complete story in such a short format.  These are all perfect examples of short stories to have ready and waiting when you find yourself with a little extra time on your hands.  Enjoy!
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The following is my 5 Star review:

Book:  If Love Was Enough
Author:  Regina Puckett
Genre:  Inspirational
Length:  19 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon

This story ripped at my heart.

IF LOVE WAS ENOUGH by REGINA PUCKETT is the story of April and the loss of her husband just days before he is scheduled to come home to her and their unborn child.  This loss is so overwhelming that April questions whether God is listening to her prayers since she will never see her loving husband again.  Enter the quirky angel, Ms. Gabriel, to help provide some of the answers April is looking for.

This is a heartwarming tale that had me crying and wanting more!  A very enjoyable read.


If Love Was Enough Blurb:
If love was enough, April’s husband wouldn’t have been killed just days before his tour of duty was completed.

All April has ever asked of God was for Adam’s safe return. Every day she sent up the same request, but now it is the day of Adam’s funeral and she wonders if God ever heard any of those prayers.


In an answer to April’s question of faith, God sends a very special angel. Is love enough? Yes, if it’s God’s love.


*****

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The following is my 5 Star review:

Book:  Balloon Wishes
Author:  Regina Puckett
Genre:  Inspirational
Length:  26 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon


I love crying happy tears!

REGINA PUCKETT has delivered another really beautiful story with BALLOON WISHES, a sequel to IF LOVE WAS ENOUGH.  I highly recommend that you read both of these short stories in order.  This short story introduces us to Jacob, who is with April's husband as he lay dying and promises him that he will find April and tell her how much she and their unborn child are loved.  After recovering from serious injury himself, Jacob finds April to fulfill his promise.  The pain he sees in her holds him back.  He just can't do it and the guilt of not fulfilling a dying man's request eats at his soul.  Several years later, Jacob and April meet at a school fund raiser.  Enter the beloved Ms. Gabriel to get things rolling in the right direction.

These two short stories by Regina Puckett are a must read!


Balloon Wishes Blurb:
Balloon Wishes is the sequel to If Love was Enough.

A dying solider's last wish is for someone to tell his wife how much he loved her, and how much he wanted to be there for the birth of their baby.


Jacob loses his leg, his faith and faces the dilemna of how to keep the dead Marine's last request without hurting the grieving widow all over again.


God's plan brings them together by using the faith of a child's innocent wish for his mother.


*****
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The following is my 5 Star review:

Book:  Mine
Author:  Regina Puckett
Genre:  Paranormal, Thriller, Horror
Length:  25 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon

Terror filled read!

I will now look at amateur ghost hunting in a totally new light because of MINE by REGINA PUCKETT.  This is a wickedly scary read. 

Alle is excited to go on a first date with the cute co-worker, James, until she finds out that they are going to be with a group of amateur ghost hunters in an old, dirty, abandoned mental hospital.  Getting over the fact that no dinner came before the hunt started and that she was not dressed appropriately, she allows herself to go along with James on the hunch that it is a dark building and some kissing may be involved in the near future.  Little does she know ...

If you enjoy paranormal hunts, you've got to pick this book up!  I LOVED it!


Mine Blurb:
Alle had no idea a date with her hot coworker, James, was going to go so terribly wrong. She should have refused to go as soon as he told her they were going ghost-hunting in an old abandoned mental hospital. It didn't take long to discover that they are the ones who are being hunted.


*****
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The following is my 5 Star review:

Book:  The Wedding Dress
Series:  The Survivors Club, Book 1
Author:  Ellie Keaton
Genre:  Contemporary Romance
Length:  34 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon

Very touching read.

Meg is a woman with a career goal in investment banking.  She meets the love of her life, Tyler, at a work conference. While both Meg and Tyler are career oriented, Tyler wants to settle down.  With her eye still on the career prize she's been seeking, Meg finally decides her relationship with Tyler is worth taking to the next level, marriage.  After all, there is no one that makes her feel the way Tyler does.  He is her soul mate and they are meant to be together.  Then the calendar hits 9/11 and Meg's life is turned upside down. 

ELLIE KEATON has written a beautiful short story of love, loss and living on.  This is a tear jerker that I thoroughly enjoyed.  Keep the tissue box close by.


The Wedding Dress Blurb:
15% of the profit made from selling this series of short stories is being donated to Tuesdays Children.org. @ approx 9000 words this story is perfect reading for those busy days when you need an escape :-)

Meg knew exactly what she wanted: to be the Investment Director of Solomon Bank by the time she turned 30. And nothing would stop her. Not the fact that she’d be the youngest one in the history of the company. Or the fact that she’d be the first female Director. And especially not a man.


Then she met Tyler, and everything changed. It was like they were destined to be together. The attraction was immediate, and the follow-through was more passionate and amazing than she could have ever hoped for.


But Tyler was gone now. She could barely bring herself to think about their brief time together. As she stared at her wedding dress, she reflected on the fact that almost everything would be in place: a perfect gown, a perfect venue, a perfect ceremony. But not her perfect groom.

*****
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The following is my 5 Star review:

Book:  Betsy's Breadbox
Author:   Sabrina Sumsion
Genre:  Psychological Horror, Psychological Thriller, Crime Thriller
Length:  Flash Fiction, 1,239 words
Currently Available:  Amazon

This is a wonderfully twisted flash fiction story!

BETSY'S BREADBOX by SABRINA SUMSION is a well written, thought provoking story all masterfully rolled up in a flash fiction piece.  I felt Betsy's pain and fear, so much so that I wanted to go out and buy a loaf of bread for her myself!  This is a fun, twisted read.


Betsy's Breadbox Blurb:
Betsy just wants to find her loaf of bread. The Potters are coming over for dinner. Where did it go and where did the bloody knife come from?


*****
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The following is my 4 Star Review:

Book:  Ghost Of A Chance
Series:  1 Night Stand
Author:  Deena Remiel
Genre:  Paranormal Romance, Ghost Story, Adult Sexual Content
Length:  33 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon

HOT!  HOT!  HOT!

Remy has been voodoo cursed by his ex-wife because of his negligence.  He is now just a ghost of a man.  After Susannah lost the love of her life years ago due to tragic illness, she has devoted her life to her career.  There is only one thing that will break Remy's curse and bring Susannah back from the obsessive workaholic she's become.  Will these two broken souls find each other and heal each other?  You are just going to have to read the story to find out.  You won't regret it.

This is a short story for anyone looking for a well written paranormal romance with great adult sexual content.
 

Ghost Of A Chance Blurb:
Susannah's married to her career. And she's about ready for a divorce. Drowning in grief over the loss of her husband years ago, she initially immersed herself in a high-powered position at her marketing firm. But recently, she's lost that loving feeling. Is she finally able to accept that her need for a man, for love in her life is stronger than her desire to bury it?

Remy, once a high-profile building magnate, is a ghost of a man, literally. Cursed by a vengeful ex-wife he neglected, he's relegated to shadows of his former world. She meant for him to spend the rest of his life without the chance of normalcy ever again, and he believed she succeeded. But could there be a way out?


Susannah and Remy, two people ghosting through life, until they are brought together by a fateful One Night Stand. Both are seeking re-entry to the land of the living and loving. Can they fulfill each other's deepest desires and learn what it means to live again?


*****
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The following is my 5 Star review:

Book:  Absorbed
Author:  Penelope Crowe
Genre:  Psychological Suspense, Psychological Horror, Thriller
Length:  16 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords (all e-reader formats)

Great read for horror fans!

Violet gets a mysterious gift in a beautiful box left on her doorstep.  Her on again, off again boyfriend, Mick, is not happy about this.  Then again, I couldn't see that anything would really make Mick happy unless it was berating and abusing the one person that loved him, Violet.

This gift, though really creepy, possess a magic so strong that it gives Violet the means to deal with the very objectionable Mick.  This is a really fun horror read, great for all us that enjoy a little vengeance.


Absorbed Blurb:
When Violet finds a beautiful but mysterious gift on her front doorstep, her abusive boyfriend Mick is not pleased. How will this gift change both of their lives forever?


*****
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The following is my 5 Star review:

Book:  Double-Take Tales
Author:  Donna Brown
Genre:  Contemporary Fiction, Anthologies
Length:  21 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords (all e-reader formats)

Well written collection of three fun short stories.

DOUBLE-TAKE TALES by DONNA BROWN is a collection of three short stories, Poison,  Round Trip and Ç'est La Vie.  I really enjoyed all of these stories, each is a great tale with a unique twist all its own at the end.  If I had to pick a favorite, I'd have to say it was Poison.  I enjoyed the character of the abused wife and her secrets as well as her surprise at the end very much.

This is a great collection to have loaded on your e-reader and ready to go when you find yourself with a few free moments.



Double-Take Tales Blurb:
Three dark, sardonic short stories that will have you expecting the unexpected:

In "Poison," a psychologically abused wife discovers that her husband's nut allergy may be the solution to all her problems.


In "Round Trip," a five pound note passes through desperate hands, greedy hands and tired hands before coming full circle…accompanied by a big surprise.


In "Ç'est La Vie," the police bungle a murder investigation under the watchful eye of someone uncomfortably close to the killing.


*****
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The following is my 5 Star review:

Book:  Dark Reality -  A Horror Tale
Author:  Billie Sue Mosiman
Genre:  Horror, Thriller, Suspense
Length:  27 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon

What is real?

I have to say that I LOVED DARK REALITY - A HORROR TALE by BILLIE SUE MOSIMAN.  Wow.  It really gets the reader thinking.

One day, Lane finds that small things are missing, things such as his beer to his late brother's coat rack.  The next morning he wakes up to find that places he has been familiar with his whole life are now different.  He also finds that his late brother is no longer dead.  The world and Lane's reality is shifting, but in doing so, he is given the opportunity to save his brother's life.  Will he be able to do it?

This book will leave you reeling.  LOVED IT!


Dark Reality - A Horror Tale Blurb:
Have you ever walked into a room and felt you had left something in one place, but now it is in another? Have you driven down a street or road you know well where houses and buildings and stores seem a little different from your memory of them? Have you ever felt reality slipping...just a little bit?

In DARK REALITY Lane believes his brother died in Iraq as a Marine, but one day he's back again and several things about the world are different. Buildings in town are changed. The woman his brother was married to is now Lane's girlfriend. And there's a gun in a cabinet that before never existed--neither the cabinet nor the gun. Lane needs to stop his world from shifting reality around him. And he needs, desperately, to keep his brother alive now that reality has given him a second chance...


*****

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The following is my 4 Star review:

Book:  Mooner
Author:  Selah Janel
Genre:  Horror
Length:  20 Pages
Currently Available:  Amazon, Barnes and Noble

There are things that live in the woods that will hurt you.

This story takes place in the late 1800s and focuses on the evil ways of loggers enjoying themselves at that time.  Big John is seen as the camp golden boy.  He's been logging and throwing his money to drink for many years.  There are a few men that take the logging job to save for their future.  Bill is one of the good ones.  Big John sees an easy way to steal the naive Bill's money and belongings in Red's Saloon.  Fortunately for Bill, the saloon keeper and his wife are watching out for him and will call on a Mooner to save his life and small fortune.  This was a really good, creepy read.


Mooner Blurb:
Like many young men at the end of the 1800s Bill has signed on to work in a logging camp to earn a fast paycheck to start his life. Unfortunately his role model is Big John, the camp’s golden boy known for blowing his pay as fast as he makes it. On a cold Saturday night they enter Red’s Saloon to forget the work that takes the sweat and the lives of so many. Red may have plans for their whiskey money, but something else lurks in the shadows, something that badly wants a drink that has nothing to do with alcohol. Can Bill make it back out the shabby door or does someone have their own plans for his future?

Word Count: 8,143


22 Comments

Sandy's Spotlight - BOOK REVIEW - Frozen Past by Richard C. Hale

6/5/2012

13 Comments

 

Sandy's Spotlight
BOOK REVIEW
FROZEN PAST
BY
RICHARD C. HALE

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Click on book cover to read an excerpt
Book:  Frozen Past
Author:  Richard C. Hale
Genre:  Suspense, Thriller, Crime Fiction, Police Procedural, Horror


The following is my June 5th, 2012, 5 Star review:

Amazing Read!  Don't pass this one up!

I purposely waited two days after reading FROZEN PAST by RICHARD C. HALE to write this review.  My body felt shell shocked from the thrilling tension the author was able to convey in his highly charged writing.  From beginning to end, Mr. Hale was able to keep me on the edge of my seat wondering what the demented, psychopathic serial killer was going to do next.  I must say, this killer is one of the creepiest I've read about.  I found that while reading about this monster's actions, my skin was crawling, my breath was catching and I was constantly clutching my chest.

This book is told through several points of view.  Many of the characters are young teens.  Don't let that fool you.  This is no YA novel.  This is a novel for all of you suspense loving, thrill ride seekers and horror junkies like me.  You'll find yourself screaming in your head over and over things like:  "What the hell is going on?", "YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME?",  "NOOOO! HE DIDN'T REALLY JUST DO THAT?"

I can't say it any clearer.  THIS BOOK IS FABULOUS! 

Being a romance lover, one of my favorite aspects to this book is the wonderfully sweet story of first love between Luke and Ellie.   Mr. Hale was able to transport me back in time and helped me remember all of those wonderfully warm feelings of young love.  I must say, I was not expecting to have such a touching storyline throughout this thriller. 

Another facet of this book that I thought was truly brilliant was the lead detective's character of Jaxon Jennings.  Detective Jennings is not your normal tough, unstoppable crime fighting character that you find in so many suspenseful thrillers these days.  Due to a tragic past that is tightly connected to the serial killer, Detective Jennings is a flawed and sometimes weak character that I found myself wanting to slap silly occasionally so he wouldn't give up.  As the reader, you are not sure if he is going to catch the maniacal serial killer or not, which added a whole new level of stress to this story for me.

If you like heart stopping suspense and the thrill of a really scary emotional roller coaster ride, you have just got to read this book.  You won't be able to put it down.  Beware, FROZEN PAST does contain extreme violence.


Frozen Past Blurb:

Luke is only fourteen. Eliana is his whole world and for a fourteen year old, the burden is immense. You see, Eliana is being stalked. Stalked by a madman who wants nothing more than to see her dead. The madman knows things that no one should know and sees things that no one should see. He tells them if they say a word to anyone, they will both die. And Luke can't let that happen.

Eliana's past is catching up with her and Luke must do anything to save her. Anything.


Author Links:
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13 Comments


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