Review of the Novel: Edge of Sunrise

On the Edge of Sunrise

By: Cynthia Ripley Miller

Rating: 5 Glasses

I know I am a bit biased as I love history based books but I loved this book. It mixes perfectly history and romance, which I want to say romance is not normally my first choice. A woman's choice her duty or love? Oh chose the love girl it is much better. The scenes are perfectly orchestrated and draws you into each and every page. I loved it and finished it in record time. A must read for the history lovers who love a little romance to spice it up.

To grab a copy Click here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Book One: A Makaveli's Prince Novel (Makaveli's Prince 2)

Book One: A Makaveli's Prince Novel (Makaveli's Prince 2)

By: Sam Hunter

Rating: 3 Glasses

I wasn't completely drawn into this story. That is not to say it wasn't a good book it just didn't do it for me. I know there is a pre-quell and maybe reading that would have helped. I am a big Tupac fan but I still couldn't get into it. The story seemed to slow at points and I found myself putting it down. This genre just may not be for me but when I get a story that promises action/adventure I want a faster pace. That all being said I know there is an audience for this novel and I would encourage you to give it shot as it may be right up your alley.

To Grab a Copy Click here :)

Ana

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Review of the Book: Back to Me: Changing how I feel about my mother, my body, and men

Back to Me: Changing how I feel about my mother, my body, and men

By: Camilla Dorand

Rating: 4 Glasses

I think anyone who puts themselves out there by writing a memoir about their own personal struggles should be commended. It takes a lot of guts to tell your story and even more when talking about your body. As a woman I know the struggles of body image and wanting to fit into a mold that society puts on us. I found this book to be really uplifting. To see a woman find her way and past her own struggles to find success. It is a great read and a very emotional book to read.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: The Dark Side of Chemistry

The Dark Side of Chemistry

By: S.J Higgins

Rating: 4 Glasses

I was surprised by this novel. I was thinking mystery thriller but she hit me over the head right up front with some very graphic sexual activity. I was intrigued and had to read on. I have said before erotica is not my thing but this is the second novel to kick my butt into gear. I may be a convert. I got a great thriller with a little dirty to spice it up. The only I would have liked is for the female lead to be a bit more assertive. She was constantly being bossed around by men and was ok with it. I really hope I see her come into her own more in the next installment....which I plan to read as soon as it hits :)

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Thanksgiving: my apology

I wanted to take this opportunity to apologize for getting behind. I was on the ball, so to say, with getting books read and reviewed quickly but in the past week I have stalled. I am working to get caught up but I think I should explain why I got behind. As some of you know I work as a nanny for a very special little boy. He has been unwell for a while and has been hospitalized for the past three months. On November 22, 2015 his body gave out and he passed on. This has been an emotionally draining time for me and I have tried to throw myself into work to keep my mind active but I have failed in that. I am pulling myself together and trying to focus on my work. I will be back on track and will get every review I have promised done. I have set a time frame of no more than a month from request to completion. If I miss that deadline I apologize. Please bear with me I don't want to let anyone down.

Love
Ana

Review of the Book: GR3T3L-1 (Good Tales For Bad Dreams)

GR3T3L-1 (Good Tales For Bad Dreams)

By: V.M. Sawh

Rating: 4 Glasses

Never underestimate the retelling of a classic story. I picked this one out of this three books to read as I love robots. I seriously didn't get the Gretel thing when I first started. I was like "oh no robot names with numbers that I can't read" yah.... I felt dumb once I figured it out. It is short and concise and brought a new edge to the Hansel and Gretel story. The robot speak/terminology can get a bit confusing but I caught on. I really enjoyed this and I look forward to checking out more of his stories.

To Grab and Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: The Last Kinmark

The Last Kinmark

By: Josh Brannan

Rating: 4 1/2 Glasses

I am starting to get more and more into fantasy novels as I journey through as a blogger and this book has helped me to become even more interested in the genre. A tale of knights and kings and perilous journeys. I enjoyed each page as I turned. It is well written with interesting characters. My only complaint is the female characters could have had a bigger role ( I know I love the strong female character) and they could have held bigger parts in the book. Here's to hoping they get a bigger role in the sequel. I will let you know once I read it :)

To grab your copy Click Here :) 

Ana

Review of the Novel: Animal Suicide

Animal Suicide

By: Alexandro Chen

Rating: 5 Glasses

I am giving this book five glasses and I needed five glasses after I was done. It takes a very dark look at suicide. I am an animal lover and the thought of a dog killing itself disturbs me greatly. However this author really takes the matter seriously and doesn't turn it into a joke. I read it in one night as I struggled to put it down, perhaps morbid curiosity I am not sure. The fact is the author has some real guts to tackle a subject like this the way he does and I applaud him for it. In a world of sequels and cookie cutter novels this book stands apart as truly unique.

To grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: White Lady Black Sons

White Lady Black Sons

By: Lisa Richesson

Rating: 5 Glasses

Normally to keep my attention you need to blow something up or have some dramatic action sequence...I get bored easily but I have not been this engrossed in a novel in a long time. I have enjoyed books but this one held on tight. I cringed when she was in pain and railed against those who did it to her. Once I was done I felt I knew Lisa and just wanted to hug her. I was so moved by her willingness to share her pain with the reader and to give hope to those suffering like she did. Her dream of becoming a great writer is right on track. May many more amazing books come from your hands Lisa.

To Grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Drift An Alternative Traveling Experience

Drift: An Alternative Traveling Experience

By: Sara San Angelo

Rating: 5 Glasses

I was enthralled reading this book. I couldn't put it down. I am not familiar with the life on the road but some days it sounds appealing. This book gave a real portrayal of what that life can be like, it's not glamorous and can be trying but freeing at the same time. After reading the author's biography I knew she had it down right. It is a great read about finding yourself and your confidence. A must read!

To grab your copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Hypnotica Beginnings

 

Hypnotica: Beginnings

By: Cory Tsuhako

Rating: 3 1/2 Glasses

I want to start by saying that I enjoyed this story. I think the author has a great idea and a great cast of characters I think he needs more story detail. The story is great but it lacks detail. More explanation would be awesome. I love the ending as it hit me like a ton of bricks. The bottom line is: it is an easy read short read that I was able to get through in one night and I will never say it was a night wasted :)

To Grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the book: Introducing Super Sporty

Introducing Super Sporty

By: Ellie Firestone

Rating: 4 Glasses

Super Horses and Aliens how can one go wrong? This author doesn't. This is a cute book following super powered horses who have to fight evil aliens. It is easy to read and would be suitable for a child who is on their way to becoming reading proficient. The cute illustrations throughout the book help to keep a child's eye on the book and were very entertaining for me. I saw there is a whole series of books in this line so you have a set of characters  with multiple books and storylines so your child can never become bored.

To Grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the book: Meditation for Beginners

Meditation for Beginners

By: Madame Missou

Rating: 3 Glasses

Ok I am not a mediation girl....I am a wine and Netflix girl but I gave meditation a shot. The exercises are easy to understand and perform however I think I am just not designed for meditation as they didn't work for me. In fairness I was drinking wine...not sure you a supposed to do that. I think if finding new ways to relax is your goal this book is definitely worth a read but I got relaxing mastered.

To Grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the book: The Elemental School

The Elemental School

By: Alissa Williams

Rating: 5 Glasses

Ok I have felt bad about reviewing children's books with wine but this book was actually written by a child, the author is only eleven years old. However despite her young age she brings us a lovely story of a magical school and the adventures of several of its students. It was a fast and easy read and is perfect for any teen to enjoy. I am so impressed that a child of her age has put so much work and effort into bringing her characters to life. Great work Alissa and keep writing I will be following your rise to the top :)

To grab a copy click here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Guardians of the Grove

Guardians of the Grove

By: J.W. Davis

Rating: 4 Glasses

Young female heroine with a bow...Katniss has a bow I am in (yes people I think like that) but that is where the similarities between them ends. This fantasy novel takes you to another world filled with magic and adventure. I really liked the main character and I was very invested in what happened to her as she discovered who she is. I love female leads!! She is strong and fearless and I love her. The images are vivid and paint a clear picture as to the world they live in. This story really builds the world and I am looking forward to the adventures that await them in the next novel.

To Grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Questing for a Dream

Questing for a Dream

By: P.D. Workman

Rating: 5 Glasses

Insightful, is the first word to come to mind when talking about this book. I am in no way the target audience for this novel ( I prefer things to explode more... I mean literally let's blow stuff up) but it captivated me from the start. The choice of using a Native American reservation as the location shows a real understanding of a void into today's literature. This is a scene that many people don't understand or have misconceptions about what life is really like and the amazing relationships and struggles of these families. The three girls were very different and had things I liked and attached to about each of them. I was very impressed with her ability to bring them to life in way that kept my interest (without blowing anything up...major points for that). It is truly a great work of fiction that is appropriate for any age group.

To Grab your copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Hybrid Discovery #1

Hybrid Discovery #1

By: Emma Jaye

Rating: 5 Glasses

Ok I didn't need wine to enjoy it but I drank it anyway. This was a sexually charged sci-fi journey that I could not put down, literally I read it in one night! Sleep was no option I had to finish this book. I am not an erotica book type of gal, I literally put 50 Shades of Grey down with a "NO THANK YOU" but his book held my interest because the raunchy sex was secondary to a solid plot. It follows a half human half alien (well 15-85 percent) who is finally getting out from the protective and secretive wing of her childhood and through a dangerous mission starts to find out who she really is and explores it. No spoilers here you need to read and enjoy this one for yourself. But be prepared the sex is well explained so not for the faint of heart.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the novel: Salvation's Dawn

Salvation's Dawn

By: Joe Jackson

Rating: 5 Glasses

The novel follows the tale of Kari a demon-hunter fresh out of the Demon Wars. I love a strong female character and she doesn't disappoint me. Joe doesn't give us a male character with a  female name, she holds onto things that make her feminine and that makes me very happy. The book is filled with twists and turns as the post Demon War world throws its challenges at her. Joe has built a very clear and detailed world for the reader that doesn't leave you scratching your head about...wait what does she look like? Nope everything is as clear as a movie on the screen. I have never been a big demons and fantasy books but this one sucked me in and I found myself really enjoying the world he created. A must read for the lovers of fantasy.

To grab a copy click here :)

Ana

Review of the book: Yetunde: The Life and Times of a Yoruba girl in London

Yetunde: The Life and Times of a Yoruba girl in London

By: Segilola Salami

Rating: 5 Glasses

I really enjoyed this children's book. I love old fables and they were told in a creative and unique way. I wish there had been more illustrations to go along with the story but the lack of them did not take away from the quality of the book. The only thing I struggled with is the language used in parts of the book, it wasn't translated so I wasn't sure what the character was saying. However the story flows enough that you can get the main idea of what the character were saying without knowing the exact words. Fun and cute and an easy read, I would defiantly recommend :)

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Average Joe and the Extraordinaries

Average Joe and the Extraordinaries

By: Belart Wright

Rating: 4 Glasses

Filled with fun dialog and creative characters this novel is a fun read. It definitely fits the young adult genre and can be enjoyed by the younger audiences. I also think many adults would find it entertaining. Average Joe feels like a new kind of superhero for masses to enjoy, without feeling like a rip off of any other comic book character. Full of action and adventure Average Joe will not disappoint.  It is a great start to a series and I am really looking forward to the next book.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Book: Full Circle: From doodles to discovery- 101 drawings to finish (Volume 1)

Full Circle: From doodles to discovery-101 drawings to finish

By: Katja Vartianinen

Rating: 5 glasses

So nothing to read in this book just to explore. I am not much of a doodler so I tested this book out on some unsuspecting teenagers. I gave them all the same page from the book and told them to finish the drawings. Once done I had them all group up and compare what they created. They all had different drawings. It was a great way to help them understand perspective. That they all started with the same paper but saw very different things when it came time to develop the material. I don't think the artist intended for this to be a therapy tool but it is and it worked. I also gave some of the other pages to some teens with busy hands (ie they need something to do all the time) and they loved it. Several spent over an hour working on different pages. If you love to doodle this book is a great time to be had. Let your creative juices flow :)

To grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Cruelty Free Cleaning: Mrs. Meyer's Rosemary Hand Soap

Mrs. Meyer's Rosemary Hand Soap

Rating: 4 Glasses

Ok I LOVE this hand soap. It smells great and washes clean. The only reason it is getting 4 and not 5 glasses is because of packaging issues. I went to the Mrs Meyer's website and found that they sell these really cool glass soap dispensers and I was like, "HELL YES" I must have these but when I looked to see if this scent of hand soap came in the refill bottle ( the big one) it does not! So if I want the cool glass dispensers I have to buy the soap in the regular dispenser and then empty it into it? No that's dumb and a waste. Why doesn't it come in the refill size???? That is my only complaint and I hope Mrs. Meyer's fixes it soon.

Ana

Review of the Novel: Pawned Queen

 

Pawned Queen

By: SK Thomas

Rating: 4 Glasses

I love a good thriller and this one fits the bill. Thrillers are hard to review because I never want to give away any juicy plot twists or story points. So let's just say this, you are in for a ride. I am not the biggest fan of flashing back and forth and that is the only reason I struggled to give it that last glass of wine. However, it does not in any way take away from the quality of this story. It is fast paced and an easy read. Very enjoyable and I look forward to the next book in the series.

To grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the book: The Christmas Thief

The Christmas Thief

By: Ronesa Aveela

Rating: 5 Glasses

Part of me feels bad rating a children's book with glasses of wine but let's be honest kids will make you need wine in your life. This is an adorable Christmas book with a great message about helping others in need. I really liked how the book was almost two parts, the story which is really to be read by an adult to a child. The second half is filled on interactive things for the child to do; mazes, coloring pages, etc. I am grabbing a paperback copy to give to my nieces as I love the drawings and the positive message in this book.

To Grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Collection of Stories: A is for Apocalypse

A is for Apocalypse

Written by: Rhonda Parrish (and 25 other authors)

Rating: 4 Glasses

I was given this book and thought.....oh no end of the world. I don't like the idea of the end of the world....there would be no more wine and that is a problem. However, when I found out it was a collection of short stories about different end of the world situations my interest was peeked. Each story holds its own charms and uniqueness which keeps the topic (end of the world) from getting stale. It was easy to read as you can put it down easier. You can break between stories and come back without any worry of forgetting. The fact that so many authors took part in putting this together really made it unique to many other collections of short stories I have read. I liked some more than others but I won't tell which. I don't want to sway any readers as we all gravitate towards the types of stories we enjoy.
I will tell you this zombies or no zombies when the end comes I am keeping my wine!

To grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the book: Kitchenelves Revolution

Kitchenelves Revolution

By: Christian Eberle (Author), Katja Vartiainen (illustrator)

Rating: 4 Glasses

Super cute and funny is the best way to describe this picture book for adults. The visuals are amazing, and the story is entertaining. I wish there was more of it, and that is my biggest complaint. The story is very short, as can be expected when there are so many beautiful drawings but I wanted a longer story and more detail. This is however a fun read and a chance to finally get some pictures with your reading. I miss the pictures, big kid books don't have pictures and it isn't fair, lol.
Viva Revolution!

To grab a copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Dragons of Daegonlot: Dragon Orb

Dragons of Daegenlot: Dragon Orb
By: Shanlynn Walker

Rating: 5 Glasses

Ok I know nothing about dragons...well unless you count what I picked up from the Harry Potter series. So I was prepared to be lost in this book but Shanlynn makes it easy to follow. The writing is smooth and makes for a quick read. The story tells of a young man who wishes to be a dragon rider but no dragon will chose him. Until a wild dragon choses him to care for her egg. Drax (The boy) raises the dragon but does not bond the way the other dragons do, as this is a wild dragon not a tamed one. The story takes several twists as we are uncovering the mystery behind the dragons being tamed. The ending leaves us with a "what's going to happen next" moment and I am eagerly awaiting that result.

To grab a copy Click here :)

Ana

One Month Anniversary :)

It has been one month since I started this blog and things have grown immensely. I have had over 500 views and have made numerous new connections with other writers and readers. I am very blessed to have found these people as they are my guide to improving myself not only as a writer but a person. Learning where you struggle and where you thrive is the only way to improve. I appreciate constructive criticism and want to share that with other writers. That and wine....oh wait... No I am not sharing my wine, sorry. I feel like I have grown so much just in this past month. Marie has gotten a new professional cover and suffered several editing session with numerous people to bring it to full strength. I couldn't be prouder of what I have done and I don't intend to slow down anytime soon. James is about done and will be hitting Amazon at the beginning of December and I hope it finds a home with many of you that have welcomed Marie into your book loving lives. My family and friends have been my strength and my new found family of writer friends have been my inspiration to improve and support every indie authors' dream.

As my favorite quote says, "It's not who is going to let me. It's who is going to stop me."
And I will not be stopped :)

Ana

Cruelty Free Cleaning Product Review: ECover Dishwasher Tablets

ECover Dishwasher Tablets

Rating: 3 Glasses

I was turned on to these by a friend after I made the switch to all cruelty free cleaning products. I was nervous of using any tablets that weren't the standard (ie cascade). I had a brand new dishwasher and I don't run my dishwasher daily. I live the single life and don't dirty that many dishes so I only run it like once a week. So I need a detergent that can get the stuck on food. I like the fact that these are safer for the fish and don't pollute the way normal dishwasher packs can and they do the job. I have only had a couple instances of stuck on left over food and I think some of that was my fault. ( ie left it on them too long). I wish they did better with glasses as they don't come out as shinny clean as they did with my old cascade packs but they are clean so I let it go.

I am not 100% sold and I will be trying another brand once these run out. Stay tuned to see what product I try next :)

Ana

What makes for a great villian?

It is irrelevant if you are talking about a book or a film. The protagonist will get you interested by the villain will define your hero. A weak villain will soften your story and make for a  weak story. I have read many of book and seen many a film where the villain has outshone the hero and taken center stage. A prime example of this would be Heath Ledger's joker from the Dark Knight. His performance is remembered as far more effective and powerful then Batman himself. You have to hate the villain and at the same time attach with them. They can't just do villainous things they have to have a stronger back character to attach with readers or viewers.

1- Sense of Immortality: we have to believe the villain will not go away easily and even if they do...are they really gone?

2-Clear but not too clear of a goal: We are never comfortable in knowing what they are up to.

3- Something that sets them apart: They need to be unique, no cookie cutter tie her to the tracks villain

4- Unsure of their full potential: What are they capable of? Don't make it too clear let us discover it.

5- Savage Nature: Is there no limit to what they will do to reach their goal?

What are you thoughts? Who is your favorite villain of all time?

Ana

Review of the Novel: Tragic Renewal

Tragic Renewal
By: Marlina Williams

Rating: 5 Glasses

I started this book thinking I was getting a love story. The main character is introduced as a victim of her marriage who after the death of a friend finds a fresh start. I really though the story would only focus on this woman finally finding happiness. But I was wrong, simple love stories are for the birds and this author takes you for a real ride. Lies, betrayal, secret motives, and murder define this story for me. I was turning pages so fast my kindle struggled to keep up. I never say the ending coming I never suspected the evil one the character's possessed. The ending was satisfying and made me feel like it was all resolved and the character's I wanted to come out on top did. I loved it and I would recommend it to anyone who loves a page turner filled with mystery.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: Cross Academy

Cross Academy
By: Valicity Garris

Rating: 5 Glasses

I was weary when I picked this up. I was raised catholic so the world of religious demons is not unfamiliar. I was worried that this was going to be too religious but it was not. A strong female character, Fox, leads the cast of characters and instantly earned my attention. He commitment to her cause and avenging her family is her driving force but things aren't as simple. Her inner turmoil helped me to hold onto her as a character as I struggled with her about what to do. The incredible landscapes and visuals Valicity brings to the reader helps to bring the story to life in a way that puts you almost trapped in the novel. You can't put it down until you finish. I read it in only a couple days as I wanted to know what would happen next :)
Well written and a fun read, it is a perfect read for any young adult...or anyone for that matter :)

Bottom Line: If you are a Hunger Games fan, than this book is right in your wheel house. If you are more of a fantasy fan (Twilighters) then this is 100% BETTER! Well even if you are not this book is a great choice to fill your book needs.

Ana
To grab your copy click here :)

Review of the Novel: Rise of an Oligarch: The Way It Is: Book One

Rise of an Oligarch

By: Carlito Sofer and Nik Krasno

Rating: 5 Glasses

I loved this book! I am normally more drawn to female driven novels but I became really invested in Misha. This novel starts with a bang, literally, an assassination attempt on an important figure who at first remains a mystery. The story then takes us back and forth from the past to the present as we learn more about the victim of the assassination attempt and the attempts by his associates to find who was responsible. The technique of taking us back and forth from learning more about the victims past and where they are in the present helped me to attach to the main character as I learned more about him I was more vested in his fate. The book kept me interested and driven to find out who was responsible and if justice would be done. I am really looking forward to getting into the second book in the series.

To Buy a copy on Amazon click here :)

Ana