Ana's Post

Just wanted to send out a big Happy Memorial Day :)

Indie Film Friday: Parkland

Parkland

Directed by: Peter Landesman

Staring: Zac Efron, Marcia Gay Harden, Jack Weaver, Paul Giamatti

The Breakdown: The true story of the assassination of JFK and the people involved.

My Review:
I had thought about renting this movie for a while and finally did it and I ws not disappointed. I was devestated by this film and this is someone who wasn't even alive a the time. It really hit home the impact of the events of that tragic day in the way it affected the people we may have heard the name of but knew very little about. I think I cried the entire time with how powerful the acting was and the way the film was presented. I was really impressed iwth Zac Efron, he is more of a comedic actor for me and to see him do drama so well really impressed me. I would recomend for anyone it was amazing.

Rating: 5 Glasses

Ana's Post

Hey all been super busy :( I will be back starting tomorrow with Indie Film Friday :)

Review of the Novel: Advance

Advance

By: KA Duggsy

Rating: 5 Glasses

I was drawn in immediately to this book. I love a good drama and throw in a little romance and time travel I am hooked. Detective type books have always been a weakness and this twist in the genre really is amazing. I loved Faith and appreciate the author going with a strong female lead. If you love  good mystery grab a copy of this one.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Indie Film Friday: Concussion

Concussion

Directed by: Peter Landesman

Staring: Will Smith

The Breakdown: In Pittsburgh, accomplished pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu uncovers the truth about brain damage in football players who suffer repeated concussions in the course of normal play. (From IMDB)

My Review:

This film tore me up. I love football but the information presented made me look at it in a totally different light. It left me conflicted. The reality of the sport and the damage it causes these players for entertainment was devestating. However with the information being public now the players know the dangers of the sport and continue to play anyway. It really is incredible the lengths we are willing to go to become the best at a sport that could in reality cause their death. I am not sure I will ever be able to enjoy football the same.

Rating: 4.5 Glasses

Review of the Novel: Hot Mess

Hot Mess

By: Madeline Antonia Rosenberg

Rating: 5 Glasses

With multiple points of view I was worried that I would struggle with this book but I didn't. I found myself very engaged in this book and the story it presented. I will admit I am a hot mess so I could relate to the title the first time I looked at it only my closet isn't that awesome. I laughed repeatedly while reading and finished it in only two days. It is a fun read that is great pick for any gal wanting a good laugh.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Freebie Wednesday

All of the books listed below are a FREE Digital Download on Amazon! Check out any and have fun downloading :)

*If you have an upcoming free book please submit it through the submission page*

As the lone survivor of the destruction brought on by Marie, James is left to question: Who am I? However, dark force have begun to arise that will try to answer that question for him and shape his destiny. As secrets are revealed, James’ fight not only for survival but to discover his true identity will lead him down a path he can never come back from.

Will he truly become Marie’s son?

To grab a FREE Kindle Copy Click Here :)


 

Review of the Book: Looking up A Day-votional

Looking up: A Day-votional

By: Dee Kyalo-Mwanzia

Rating: 3.5 Glasses

Inspirational is the focus of this book or collection of what I would call almost poetry. It is well put together and easy to read. I was not as inspired as I hoped I would be reading this but that is not to detract from the book. I think that is you need something to read to inspire you this book would probably work pretty well for you.

To grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Ana's Post

Ok I am no good at self promotion. I would rather talk about other people's books then my own. I guess I feel full of myself to say things like "My books rock" and things that like. But that being said my second novel : "James" is on FREE promo this week and I would be thrilled if all of you would give it a download and a read. I love to support indie authors and hope all my followers are the same. Long live the Indie Novel!

Here is James:

 

To Download a FREE Copy Click Here :)

Review of the novel: The Ascendants: Genesis

The Ascendants

By: Christian Green

Rating: 4 Glasses

A classic tale of good verses evil with a science fiction feel and some twist to amp up the fun. It was a quick read and an enjoyable one. I do wish it had been a bit longer so it could go more into detail. I prefer my science fiction to have more explanation. That is the weakest portion of this book as it felt less complete. But if you enjoy science fiction and love a quick read then this book will fit in nicely.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Review of the Novel: The Reflections of Queen Snow White

The Reflections of Queen Snow White

By: David Meredith

Rating: 4 Glasses

I was interested to start his book because I am always curious about fairy tale re-telling. This not so much a re-telling as a continuation. Now that being said the old story is tweeked a bit in the telling of Snow White before she was queen and her relationship between herself, her father, and her step-mother and how that shaped the woman she became. It was a very intrigueing read as I found myself accimtaing to this different version of the story. I give the author a lot of credit for taking it on and giving a very different story while at the same time keeping it familiar. Fairy tale fans will be very thrilled to add his one to thier shelves.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Indie Film Friday: Spotlight

Spotlight

Directed by: Tom McCarthy

Staring: Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Liev Schreiber, John Slattery, and Stanley Tucci

The Breakdown: The true story of the Boston Globe reporters who uncovered and exposed the scandal of child molestation by Catholic priests and the cover-up engineered by the Catholic Church.

My Review:
I have been dying to see this movie for a while but never got myself to the theater to see it. So I rented it and I was not disappointed that I did. I grew up catholic so was almost afraid of what I was learn from watching this movie and I was in fact disgusted. I knew about the scandal but to see it brought to the screen with such power was emotionally draining. I was brought to tears by the powerful performances and the way the story was put together. This film truly did deserve the Oscar and if you haven't seen it yet I don't know what you are waiting for.

Rating: 5 Glasses

Review of the Novel: The Winemaker

The Winemaker

By: Charmaine Pauls

Rating: 5 Glasses

Im pretty sure the author knew me all to well before she sent this book to me. Wine? Yes Please! Sexy Winemaker? Yes Please! As romance books go this one is right on the money. Not too much steam but not to little. I enjoyed delving into the world of wine making and wine tasting. Not to sound silly but almost more fun for me than anything else. Let's talk about wine.... No don't worry I won't go into my true love in this review. Romance lovers this book is for you :)

*I recieved a free copy in exchange for an honest review

To grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Freebie Wednesday

All of the books listed below are a FREE Digital Download on Amazon! Check out any that interest you and have fun downloading :)

*If you have an upcoming free book please submit it through the submission page*

 

Cammie Laroux is back in Alabama—again.

Dragged back to her small town to help her mother recover from surgery while rescuing the family event planning business should be a cinch. Even for a disgraced television chef, right? Wrong.

Among the many secrets Cammie’s family’s been hiding is the fact that their historic home is falling down. Oh, and the man hired to restore the house, Grey Harrison, is the same high school and college love of her life who thrashed her heart and dreams ten years ago. Yeah, that guy.

Grey, a widower with a young daughter, has never stopped loving Cammie, and when they are face to face once again, the chemistry is off the charts. Cammie may be in full-blown denial, but letting go is no longer in Grey’s vocabulary, even when winning Cammie’s forgiveness and renovating their love may seem like an impossible build even for a master architect and carpenter.

As Cammie finds herself forgetting all the reasons she can’t trust Grey or love again, he finds himself remembering all the reasons he wants her to stay with him in Alabama… forever

 

To Grab a FREE Kindle Copy Click Here :)

 

 

 

Fans of contemporary and urban fantasy will enjoy this series. Don't be surprised to find dark humor, lots of snark, and a murder mystery, all wrapped up in a single thrilling, action-packed narrative.

Called "addictive" by New York Times Bestseller Darynda Jones, those interested in strong female protagonists are sure to take a shine to Jesse Sullivan, the reluctant anti-hero of the series.

Synopsis for Dying for a Living:
On the morning before her 67th death, it is business as usual for Jesse Sullivan: meet with the mortician, counsel soon-to-be-dead clients, and have coffee while reading the latest regeneration theory. Jesse dies for a living, literally. As a Necronite, she is one of the population's rare 2% who
can serve as a death replacement agent, dying so others don't have to. Although each death is different, the result is the same: a life is saved, and Jesse resurrects days later with sore muscles, new scars, and another hole in her memory.

But when Jesse is murdered and becomes the sole suspect in a federal investigation, more than her freedom and sanity are at stake. She must catch the killer herself--or die trying.

 

To Grab a FREE Kindle Copy Click Here

 

 

 

Ana

 

 

 

Review of the Novel: Pretty Waste

Pretty Waste

By: Melissa Simonson

Rating: 4 Glasses

I have got to say this first, love this cover! I know covers sell books and to judge this one by its cover I was prepared to be wowed. I was. The story, the intricate characters, the drama, and the sex! However at times the writing style can be a bit confusing. I had a few moments where I was confused as to who the author was talking about or who's point of view I was seeing things from. That being said it is a very adult book that is not for the squeamish or faint of heart. If you love romance and thriller novels this one will be a good fit for you.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana 

Ana's Post

I missed mother's day yesterday on the blog :( So it's a happy late mother's day to all.

Ana

Review of the Novel: Taken

Taken: Lost and Found

By: Victoria Allred

Rating: 3.5 Glasses

Vampires and Vampire hunters must unite! Perhaps my big problem was the overwhelming amount of vampire books I have read in the past several months but I was not drawn in completely by this book. Don't get me wrong it is a good story but it was confusing at times and that put me out of it. The fact that I am not a big vampire girl probably didn't help that much either. I was able to finish it and find myself satisfied with what I read and the outcome. Vampire fans will enjoy this book much more than me So for the vampire fans out there, grab a copy.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Review of the Novel: The Branches of Time

The Branches of Time

By: Luca Rossi

Rating: 5 Glasses

I was so intrigued to start this book and I was so impressed I finished it in record time. Normally time travel books can cause me a lot of confusion. I normally have a bunch of "wait where are we?" moments. That was not true with this one. It is well written and easy to follow. I wish there had been a bit more conflict but it flowed well as it was and it's length made the lack of serious conflict doable. I am very interested to see where the author goes next. If you love time travel and magic this book will be a perfect fit for you.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)


Ana

Indie Film Friday: Fantastic Lies

Fantastic Lies

Directed by: Marina Zenovich


The Breakdown: This documentary tells the story of the 2006 Duke Lacrosse team sexual assault case.

My Review:
The 30 for 30 series by ESPN has never failed to bring us an amazing documentary and this one is my opinion is the best of the series...that I have seen. I have a degree in Criminology and was fresh out of College when this scandal broke. I can remember hearing about the Duke players being accused and I remember the media sensation but I couldn't for the life of me remember the outcome of the trial. I think that speaks volumes for our media coverage and the reaction of the public. We love to make villains out of people that we see as privileged and assume they must have done wrong because they are rich. Watching this I was disgusted as to how this case was handled and how irresponsible the media was in reporting it. I think one of the players said it best and I am paraphrasing here: "It is scary to think that we had the financial resources to fight a corrupt system to clear our name and there are so many who don't. How would this same situation have ended for them?" It is a scary thought and one that does in fact happen. This film is a wake-up call that there has to be better oversight into investigations and how they and trial are conducted. It is an extremely well put together film that I think is really worth watching for everyone.

Rating: 5 Glasses

Review of the Novel: Vampire Bride

Vampire Bride

By: KL Novitzke

Rating: 4 Glasses

I am always hesitant to grab a vampire book as I fear the influence Twilight has had on the genre. However I was happy with what I got from this book. It was an interesting take on vampires and one that does to deter from the history of the monster. The back and forth betweeen Charlie and Maxwell was fun to read unfold. It was a good mix between a love story and a thriller. Folks who enjoy vampire stories will not be disappointed in this rendition.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Freebie Wednesday

All of the books listed below are a FREE Digital Download on Amazon! Check out any that interest you and have fun downloading :)

*If you have an upcoming free book please submit it through the submission page*

Dr. Hubbard seems to have everything going for him, success in his job and moderate fame, his choice of any woman he wants, and undeniable wealth. To those around him, he seems nearly perfect and untouched by anything. Then on an ordinary Tuesday evening a nervous ER intern corners him with a desperate plea to help save a young woman's life. Almost immediately he realizes that the woman holds a connection to a secret from his past that he’s carried with him for years. As she remains unaware of the poignant way their lives are intertwined, Dr. Hubbard makes it his mission to keep her in his life until he can come to terms with how to handle the reality of what she represents. What begins as an unwillingness to let go of old memories and redeem past mistakes, soon turns into an intricate web of deception that forces Dr. Hubbard to make a choice. He can reveal the truth about their connection and face the anger and heartache that might come with that revelation or let her silently move on and maybe lose his only chance for reconciliation and redemption.

To Grab a FREE Kindle Copy Click Here :)

 

 

 

 

Ashley Moore's life in San Francisco has hit a few snags, not the least of which involves sightings of a mystery man around every corner. Is she losing her mind or does he really exist? Her search for this grey-eyed stranger leads her to Scotland. There she meets a witch with a secret, a vindictive English knight who is bent on revenge, and she crosses a fog shrouded bridge into the arms of a 16th century Highlander.

Cailin MacBayne is no stranger to beautiful women, but has always managed to stay one step ahead of commitment. That all comes to an end when he meets Ashley. He doesn't care where this beautiful, yet unusual lass came from, he's just happy to have found her. Ashley cannot resist the handsome Scot and finds herself falling hopelessly in love. In the process, a secret is revealed, a battle is waged and Ashley must ultimately decide whether to return to her own time or give up her 21st century life to stay with the love she has found in the past

 

To Grab a FREE Kindle Copy Click Here :)

 

 

 

 

College student Courtney Hartford's worries are confined to doing well in school and having an active social life. That is, until she witnesses a murder.

And then recognizes the murderer.

His warning not to tell, coupled with his threat against her life and the life of her mother, pushes her to make a difficult decision--tell the police the truth, or let the people who are threatening her control her life.

Witness does not contain any profanity or sexual content.

 

To Grab a FREE Kindle Copy Click Here :)

 

Review of the Book: Key: Unlocking the Heart, Unleashing the Soul

Keys: Unlocking the heart, Unleashing the Soul

By: Evan Grovenstein

Rating: 5 Glasses

This is a beautiful collection of poems. I never know what to expect when I get a poetry book. Some are duds and bring nothing new to the poetry world, this book was the exception. The poems built on each other to tell a story through poetry of insipration and strength. I was so glad I got a copy and had the chance to read it. If you love poetry give this one a chance to fill your heart.

*I received a Free Copy in Exchange for an Honest Review

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana

Ana's Post

I was desperately trying to have my 200th post be one of mine but today is 199 so I will take it. I hate getting off schedule. So we are celebrating early :) I am so happy and proud of how much this blog has grown on the past 6 months. We have reached the 100,000 visitor mark and are now averaging about 1,000 visitors a day. I couldn't be happier with the blog or the response I have received :) So this is my thank you. Also I am always accepting free books to promote on Freebie Wednesday so be sure to submit your book and I have just re-opened my review request submissions. So feel free to submit your book.

Love
Ana

Review of the Novel: 251 Things to do in ToFino

215 Things to do in ToFino

By: Kait Fennell

Rating: 5 Glasses

I had never even heard of ToFino before this book but my desire to travel more drew me to grab a copy. I enjoyed reading through this so much and learning more about ToFino. Hoenstly is the most enjoyable travel book that I have read recently. I think it is partially becaue the kid in me enjoyed the visual aids in it. Colorful and entertaining it made most other travel books seem lame. I seriously want to visit now and check out all the fun things ToFino has to offer, even the surfing ;) Check it out and find a great new vacation destination.

To Grab a Copy Click Here :)

Ana