The Great Cholesterol Lie

The Great Cholesterol Lieby Dr. Dwight Lundell
Health/Body
ISBN #978-0-9790340-1-5
Physicians Health Plan

Review by Tally Green

That’s the question –Why are we still faced with an epidemic of heart disease that will kill more than half of our population? Dr. Lundell witnessed heart disease; he held it in his hands a quarter century after performing over 5,000 open heart surgeries.

While he was saving lives for many years he also wrestled with what he saw in the arteries of every patient-inflammation. The question he asked himself was why was inflammation present?



This book is about a dedicated heart surgeon, Dr. Dwight Lundell. He wrote this book for the people, our hearts, our life’s for us to act on the knowledge and share this information with our loved ones, friends, etc. We need to tell as many about the truth so we can save as many life’s as possible. The book helped me to understand the reason people develop and die from heart disease. If only I knew what I just found out I would have been able to help some of my family and friends that have passed away as a result of heart disease. I thought high cholesterol was the cause of heart related diseases.

Now I see the real cause is inflammation-not cholesterol. This is inflammation you have swelling, redness, heat and pain around the area of the reaction to the injury or infection. The combination of the low fat and low cholesterol diet with other life style choices has created a firestorm. The most important thing to understand is with the long lists of aliments-inflammation is the common factor in almost all cases. The awesome news is that we can reduce inflammation. Dr. Lundell’s book explains in very simple terms how to take a stand and fight inflammation. We just need to read this book and follow his recommendations, watch our health change, get that glow back in our face.

This book is a must have in your library of books. Dr. Lundell says we need to make simple changes that will treat the inflammation instead of believing that cholesterol causes heart disease. If we give our bodies what it needs to operate properly our health will make remarkable strides and respond.

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

A Feel-Good Site for Children's Reviews

The Reading Tub is a review site that all parents should know about. It is also a charity that promotes family and children's literacy. They read every children's book that is sent to them for a review. The books are then donated to community organizations. Go to http://www.thereadingtub.com for great reviews of children's literature.
-----
Submitted by Patrika Vaughn, your Author's Advocate. See her online classes at http://www.acappela.com/classes.htm.
-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Sybil Baker Offers Up Chicklit in "Life Plan"

Title: The Life Plan
Author: Sybil Baker
Genre: Women's Fiction/Chick Lit
ISBN-10: 1934081167
Format: Paperback, 192 pages
Publisher: Casperian Books LLC (March 1, 2009)

Review by Joanne Hirase-Stacey

I’ve never been to Thailand, but author Sybil Baker made me feel like I was there with Kat Miller.

For Kat, life was all planned out. She is a patent attorney on her way to becoming a partner at Pratt, Simpson & Livingston. She and her husband, Dan, created their Life Plan and five years into their marriage, Kat is certain everything is on schedule. But after Dan loses his job and starts taking yoga classes at the gym, Kat becomes suspicious of his fidelity.

When Dan announces he’s going to Thailand to learn massage techniques, Kat’s best friend Susan, a divorced divorce attorney, and Kat’s mother prod her into going along. Kat finally agrees after she meets Tiffany, a beautiful Asian woman in Dan’s yoga class, who just happens to be going to Thailand as well. Kat wants to save her marriage and make sure the Life Plan stays on track because she is almost 30, and if she has to start over with another man, it will push back all her plans of buying a home and starting a family.

Once in Thailand, Kat tries to be fun and spontaneous, but she really wants to return home to their normal life, and to her mom and Susan who are each experiencing life changing circumstances as well. After Kat hurts her foot, Dan takes off, and Kat meets some interesting characters: Jean Paul, Lucy, and Chad, who take Kat outside of her structured, controlled world.

But Kat desperately wants to find Dan and work out their problems. A series of events leads her to him, and ultimately to realizations about herself and her need to follow the systematic life plan she and Dan created.

Read The Life Plan to find out what happens to Kat and Dan and to their Life Plan.

----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Behind the Scenes at the Faire

Knight Errant :Death and life at the Faire
Written by Teel James Glenn
Edited by Joan McNulty-Pulver
Author’s e-mail: Tjglenn@aol.com
Genre: Mystery/thriller
Published by ePress-Online
Isbn#: 097722454
Priced at 14.99 for paperback version, $5.99 for e-book version


Review from Renaissance Magazine issue #66

The hero’s carefree life of beer, pizza, knocking the heads of punk robbers, and renaissance faire combat is shattered when his best friend tom is mysteriously killed. This action packed novel will keep the fan of hard-boiled renfaire mysteries on the hedge of his seat.

About the Author
Teel James Glenn) is a professional fight choreographer, actor, and film stuntman who’s has appeared in over sixty films, hundreds of soap opera episodes, too many plays to name, and over forty seven renaissance faires. He has written for several dozen magazines including Fantasy Tales, Anotherrealm, Afterburnsf, UnEarth, Blazing Adventures Black Belt, Aces, Mad Magazine, and the Fantastic W orlds of E.R.B.


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Katie Hines Reviews Much-Needed Book about Interracial Adoption

TITLE: Red in the Flower Bed
AUTHOR: Andrea Nepa
PUBLISHER: Tribute Books
SUBJECT: Interracial Adoption
ISBN-13: 978-0-9814619-9-1
ISBN-10: 0-9814619-9-9
READING LEVEL: Picture Book
RATING: 5 Stars out of 5 Stars

This review by Katie hines originally appeared on her blog.

Imagine you have made a secret promise that can lead you to an incredible treasure and an ancient power. But in order to fulfill that promise, you must defeat an age-old sect determined to claim the treasure and power themselves.


This beautifully illustrated book about interracial adoption follows the story of a poppy seed that couldn’t thrive and grow in its host environment. Through a journey, the poppy seed comes to rest, grow and blossom in a flower bed where there were other flowers of different types.

Just as a child is incorporated with joy into a new adoptive home, so was this poppy welcomed and allowed to thrive and grow in her new home of rainbow flowers. The book treats the subject of interracial adoption with tender, loving gentleness. A must read with your adopted, interracial child.

Reviewer Katie Hines is a children's author. Find her on Facebook Children's and Twitter. Her "Guardian" a middle grade urban fantasy, will be published in June.

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Incredible Resource for Homeschool Families!

Through Endangered Eyes - a poetic journey into the wild
Written and Illustrated by Rachel Allen Dillon
www.RachelDillon.com
Children's Nonfiction Book
ISBN-10: 0893170674
ISBN-13: 978-0893170677


Reviewed by D. Mitchell (Northern Arizona) for Amazon



This book is beautiful!

Rachel uses her detailed artwork of dot painting as a medium to attract the kids to individual animals that are endangered. Then engages them even more with the simple poetry. Simple but engaging.

If you or your kids are taken in by a specific animal then you just flip to the back of the book for more. I tell ya this little book is a charm! The back of it is packed full with resources. Each animal has more specific information as well as more general resources for all endangered animals. These resources help you find ways we can make a difference in our own homes, organizations involved with endangered animals and even some lesson plans for elementary kids.

So, in ONE book you get art, language arts and science. My children are ages 3,4,6,& 8 and all of them love it. It is even the right size for little hands to hold and enjoy.

I hope you purchase this book and find it as enjoyable and rewarding as our family is. It is a keeper! Just as the author's dots come together for a beautiful picture our small acts come together to make a difference.


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Carol McManus Shares Love of Family, Cooking and her Foody Business

Table Talk - Food, Family, Love
A cookbook by Carol McManus
Paperback: 114 pages
Publisher: Vineyard Stories (August 13, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 097713847X
ISBN-13: 978-0977138470

A Series of Quotes from Reviews

"An attractive and temptation-filled cookbook...chock full of recipes to encourage and entice. Sitting at a table is about feeding the body and soul, and Table Talk celebrates both the love of eating and the love of family." --Martha's Vineyard Times

"Full of tasty recipes with New England flair and abundant color photos of island life, the new cookbook from Carol McManus is about as gift-basket ready as it gets. The vibrant paperback...comes off as warmly authentic. The recipes are fairly simple and straightforward, making them a boon for both time-starved and skill-deprived chefs. All in all, Table Talk has the makings of a great little keepsake, the kind you're tempted to keep around for yourself." --Boston Magazine

"When Table Talk arrived in my mailbox, I was immediately sucked in the second I opened the cookbook and read Carol s forward. Then I continued to flip through the book and you know what... I sat there and read through the entire thing, front to back. The recipes are very appealing, simple and special... the majority have ingredients I already have on hand. The photography is stunning. Most importantly, the core values of Carol and her family shines through in each little snippet, quote and story behind life on Martha s Vineyard and the recipes to accompany such a life." --dineanddish.net

Synopsis

What owner of a popular cafe tells you to stay at home and eat? And why does she start her book with the words, "We need to bring back the family meal." Carol McManus, proprietor of Espresso Love, a well-known cafe on the Island of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, raised five children and put a meals on the table each day, while still working full time. She has written a cookbook that stresses family meals and included 80 recipes that help you put your family back to the table. Citing scientific studies that show family meals impact on everything from children's school grades (they get better) to premature sex (they wait longer), she recalls her own beliefs: "When my children were small and started to bicker, I'd gather them in a huddle and ask, 'Where's the love? We're family.' And one place we could always count on getting together, every night was the dinner table."

This is family-friendly food, designed to help recapture life the way it was meant to be lived. The ingredients are from items grown close to home, and the recipes are easy enough for every day preparation--many simple enough to reassure even the most inexperienced cook. The cookbook is divided into six useful sections: the Dinner Table, the Breakfast Table, the Healthy Table, The Weekend Table, the Dessert Table and the World's Table, designed to satisfy our more global palates. The recipes range from the simple to the sublime. Many of them feature food Carol's mother, to whom she dedicates the book, cooked, such as a home-made veggie burger called "The Mama."

Others are food served in her garden cafe off Main Street in Edgartown, on Martha's Vineyard. Accompanying the recipes are charming photographs, quotes and stories. Here you'll find the recipe for Presidential Muffins, created for former President Bill Clinton when he vacationed on the Vineyard during his presidency. Carol offers up the story of when the president came into her then-tiny shop in the corner of one of the Island's hotels to buy his muffin, dazzling both her and the Secret Service.

The book's bright, attractive design also makes use of quotes from people as diverse as comedian Buddy Hackett and movie star Sophia Loren (who notes, under a picture of spaghetti and meatballs, "Everything you see I owe to spaghetti.")

Accompanying the cookbook are tips and suggestions for getting meals to the table, including ways to engage children in cooking without letting them slow down the process. This is a must-have cookbook for every household with children -- or just people who like to eat.
Technorati Tags:
Sophia Loren, Carol McManus, Buddy Hackett, Martha's Vineyard, Presidential Muffins, Bill Clinton, family, healthy food, cookbooks, book reviews
Add to: | Technorati | Digg | del.icio.us | Yahoo | BlinkList | Spurl | reddit | Furl |


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

New Feature: Margaret Fieland Is April Feature

I am starting a new feature on this blog. Every month or so on the 1st day of the month I'll feature a new author. I'll include a brief biography and an excerpt of his or her work or an interview. The first in the series is Margaret Fieland. She was born and raised in New York City. Her poems, articles and stories have appeared in journals and anthologies such as Main Channel Voices, Echolocation, and Twisted Tongue. In spite of making her living as a computer software engineer, she turned to one of her sons to format the initial version of her Web site, a clear illustration of the computer generation gap. You may visit her website at http://www.margaretfieland.com.

AN EXCERPT FROM THE UGLY LITTLE BOY
An Unpublished Manuscript.

Alvin's eyes burned and his chest felt tight when he remembered the last time he'd visited Grandma he'd driven there with Mom and Dad. Now Mom was dead and Dad still in the hospital. Alvin peered out the window of Grandma's car as they passed through Millbank and down the tree-lined road that led to Pine Crest point. As Grandma drove past the lake with the community beach, down the road and into her driveway, Sam, Alvin's collie mix, put his front paws on Alvin's lap and barked.

"Yes, Sam, we're here," Alvin said, ruffling Sam's soft ears as they all climbed out of the car. Alvin noticed that he was almost as tall as Grandma, and that she looked even thinner and frailer and with her reddish-gray curls more faded.

Alvin, Sam and Grandma followed the flagstone path down the hill, past the rock garden. The marigolds, petunias, and geraniums lifted their faces to the sun.

The house, a ranch, was stained brown, surrounded by several large trees.

"Was there really a fence here when Dad and Uncle Arthur were little?"

"Yes, and your Grandfather and I really did tie the gate shut so they wouldn't fall into the lake." The lake was right across the road.

Grandma opened the front door, and Alvin followed her into the big living room. Paneled in pine, it had windows on both ends, a dining table at one end, couches and chairs at the other and a large fireplace in the middle.

Sam trotted up and dropped a ball at Alvin's feet.
"Grandma, Sam found a ball."

"Sam always manages to find a ball." Grandma stared at Sam, who opened his jaws and grinned a doggy grin. "You two go outside if you want to play catch. No playing ball in the house."

"That's what Mom always said." Alvin's throat felt tight. He frowned and rubbed his eyes.

Alvin pushed open the door and went outside. Standing on a flat spot in front of the house, Alvin threw the ball up the hill and Sam ran to get it.

It was beginning to get dark when Grandma called, "Alvin, time for dinner. Come in and wash your hands."

"Grandma, when will me and Dad have our own house again?" Alvin said when they were seated at the dining table.

"I don't know, Alvin. I don't know whether your father will try to rebuild your old house when he gets the insurance money." Grandma handed Alvin a hamburger and put one on her own plate. Alvin took a big bite. His throat felt almost too tight to swallow.

"I miss our house. I miss Mom and Dad. I wish everything would go back the way it was."

Grandma looked at Alvin and said, "Alvin, you're nine years old. That's old enough to know your mother isn't coming back."

Alvin ate a few more bites. Grandma put down her half eaten hamburger and stood up. "I guess we aren't very hungry tonight. Let's clear the table and wash the dishes. Then you can brush your teeth and get ready for bed."

Alvin picked up his plate and glass. He followed Grandma into the kitchen, Sam at his heels.

Grandma put the dishes on the kitchen counter. "Just scrape the hamburger into the trash and then put the dishes into the dishpan. I'll wash and you can dry."

"We could give the hamburger to Sam. I'll bet he's still hungry." Sam sat by Grandma's feet and panted hopefully.

"Hmmph," said Grandma, but she broke the hamburger into pieces and put them into a bowl on the floor. Sam grinned, then started to eat.

"At home Dad always did the dishes. "I just cleared the table." Alvin looked out the kitchen window at the front yard. He could feel the soft breeze through the open window. The sky was a dark blue with a few fluffy white clouds. Grandma's flowers swayed back and forth. It looked very peaceful. "I wonder if Mom can see the flowers from Heaven?"

"Here we both clear the table, I wash and you dry." Grandma handed Alvin a blue and white striped dishtowel. "Stack the dishes on the counter and we'll put them away when we're finished."

"At home Mom just left the dishes in the dish drain and put them away in the morning," Alvin said.

"I like my dishes in the cabinet," Grandma said as she pushed her lips together. Alvin remembered that when Grandma came to their old house she always dried and put away the dishes and Mom would get annoyed. It made him smile to remember. Dad always used to stay out of the kitchen when Grandma visited.

"All I have is one pair of pajamas, Grandma," Alvin said later when they walked out of the kitchen.

"We'll go shopping tomorrow," Grandma said. It made Alvin feel funny to think that his beloved quilt and all his clothes and books were gone forever.

"Mom used to read with me to every night. We'd just started The Fellowship of the Ring." Alvin glanced at the full bookshelves as they passed through the living room.

"We can buy you another copy. Or I might have an old one of your father's around somewhere."

"No thanks, Grandma. It wouldn't be the same. When we stopped, Mom said we'd read more tomorrow. That was the last thing she said to me. Except goodnight and stuff." Every time Alvin thought of the book his chest felt tight.


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

First Novel Compulsion Is Thriller

Title: Compulsion
Author: Jennifer Chase
Genre: Thriller
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Website: http://www.outskirtspress.com/compulsion/
ISBN: 9781432734169

Reviewed by Sarah Moore, Writers in the Skyhttp://yvonneperry.blogspot.com/2009/03/jennifer-chase-set-to-join-podcast-on.html

There are certain types of books that are almost guaranteed to keep me turning the pages into the late hours of the night. The first is any novel that develops a compelling story of the complexities found in human relationships. Second, I love a great piece of historical fiction that places me in a previous moment in time. And, finally, I gravitate towards thrilling mysteries that are filled with breath-taking action and plot twists. For literary satisfaction on the last count, I am so excited to have discovered new author Jennifer Chase. Her first book, Compulsion, is a fascinating story of serial murderers, pedophiles, and the one amazing woman who is able to bring them all to justice. When a book contains these elements and is well written, which Compulsion most certainly is, you have the recipe for an amazing read.

Author Jennifer Chase introduces us to the great character of Emily Stone. Working anonymously with her camera, computer, and trusted weapon at her constant disposal, Stone goes on the hunt for some of the most violent and deplorable criminals one can imagine. She uses her police background and natural ability to get inside the criminal mind to gather detailed, on-the-scene evidence. Then, she sends her information to the police and another villain is taken off the streets. When Stone’s identity is revealed to the latest killer on her radar screen, the fast-paced action that unfolds becomes the heart of the story and takes the reader on an amazing journey of heightened adrenaline and fear.

One of the greatest strengths in Chase’s writing is the careful unfolding of her characters’ personalities. The man known to the readers for most of Compulsion’s pages only as The Killer is first revealed through the gruesome crimes he commits. We learn of his brutal style of murder through the description of police on the scene. Further into the book, we are let into the mind of The Killer and the motivation behind his violent spree. Chase’s portrayal of a man sitting alone with his twisted thoughts brings the character into a more frightening focus. When the name and full story behind The Killer is finally revealed, the weight provided by the complete picture of this terrifying man is felt. The author employs this same development technique for her other characters, which adds an important element to the tension and sense of uncertainty. But don’t think that you are necessarily on the right track when learning more about a person in this novel. I found myself fooled by Chase’s convincing efforts to lead us down a path of assuming the guilt of an innocent person on more than one occasion.

Both the language and overall format of this book are evidence of Chase’s genuine talent in the genre of thrillers. For example, the tension and terror of the book escalates as The Killer and The Accomplice become more voracious in their need for prey. As they drive across the country with the intention of murdering Emily Stone, their need to commit violence at every step is overpowering. Readers can envision these men clenching their fists and tapping their feet with nervous energy and Chase reminds us at the close of every chapter in this climactic series of events that, “The Killers are coming.” It is a taunt that helps to create a sense of terrified anticipation. Each chapter is also quite short, often not more than three or four pages in length. This purposefully abrupt, snapshot approach jostles the reader from one event to the next, and is wonderful at generating the way that Emily Stone must feel when moving from one case to the next and not knowing who or what may be around the corner.

The new novel Compulsion by Jennifer Chase is a captivating thriller that will keep you guessing until the last page is read. The careful character development results in real, three-dimensional men and women, even if some of them are almost unimaginably horrifying. The plot, with its slowly revealed layers, is one that engages the readers immediately and takes them on quite an adventure. I was excited to read on Chase’s back cover that she is currently at work on the next book in the series. She can be certain that this new fan will be among the first to read the next installment. I believe that you, too, will find that Compulsion will leave you excited for more.

Reviewed by Sarah Moore for Writers in the Sky

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Teel James Glenn Brings Us Fantasy Full of Swords and Adventure

Sister Warrior
By Teel James Glenn
Edited by Joan McNulty Pulver, Felicia Ellis, and Debi Markee
Author’s email: TeelJamesGlenn@yahoo.com
Genre: Fantasy/ Sword and Sorcery
Published by ePress-Online Inc.
Website: ePress-Online.com
Publisher’s email: ePress-Online.com
Isbn#: 978-1-934258-15-6
Published May 2008
184 Pages
$14.99 paperback
$5.00 e-book


Reviewed by Lee for Fantasybookreivew.co.uk by Lee:

Sister Warrior is classic heroic fantasy, full to the brim with swords and sorcery. The book begins with a flourish and after a short prologue we join our blue-furred heroine, Ku’zn, as she sets out to free her brother from slavery...

I liked the descriptiveness of the author in regards to his characters; the attention to detail really pays off and allows the reader to form strong mental images… Relationships are integral to the story; Sister Warrior differs from the majority of fantasy in that it is not afraid to feature same-sex relationships. I found this refreshing as the fantasy genre has to move with the times and books like this will further promote acceptance in the “real” world.

Teel James Glenn has great experience as a fight choreographer and swordsman and he utilizes all of his knowledge and skill to produce truly breathtaking fight scenes. These sections are extremely important to a heroic / sword and sorcery book and this is where Sister Warrior really shines…

Fans of Robert E. Howard, Michael Moorcock and David Gemmell will enjoy Sister Warrior. The action is fast-paced, the excitement constant. Sister Warrior is just one Novel of Altiva and although knowledge of the prior books is not essential to enjoy this tale it will provide the reader with a greater understanding of the character. If you’re looking for an action-packed, sensual fantasy, then you need look no further.


Eight out of Ten stars

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Folkheart Press Releases E-book Stating Everyone Can Write Folktales

Family Folktales, What are yours?
By Karen Pierce Gonzalez
Publisher: Folkheart Press
ISBN 978-0-9822888-0-1

This forty two page e-book takes a look at what family folktales are and offers tips on how to write them.

The flow of this e-book allows the reader to learn while they are becoming a part of the author's life experiences and memories. When I was reading this e-book, Family Folktales, What are yours? I began to remember the experiences I had as a child that I would like to pass on to my child. This simple enjoyable e-book gives tips so the reader can write a folktale of their own the same day the book is read.
Folktales create a fun way to share family memories with others to last a lifetime and beyond.

This review is part of a book blog tour arranged by Key Business Partners, 727-644-1773.

Yesterday, March 25ththe tour stopped atHeidi Richardsconducts her interview with Karen about the book

Tomorrow it will continue at where Claudia Merydrech will review it.



-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Health and Fitness for Women Over 50

Title: Looking Good Feeling Great Ladies 50 and Over
Author:Nina Bagnall

Genre: Non Fiction Health and fitness
ISBN:978-1-60693-476-0


Ladies, if you are 50 or over this new book should take pride and place on your book shelf, but it's been published in a size so that you cam keep it in your handbag enabling you to use it as a reference bible. Because that is precisely what it will become.

It’s packed full of suggestions and options making it easier for you to take control of the next chapter of your lives.

We all have to be more self aware because this age group is susceptible to osteoporosis.

The body must have balance. Without that you are unable to respond to day-to-day living.

Our bodies are a miracle, of which we should all be very proud. It’s not young who should be thinking of their hair, figure, and what they eat. These pracitces should be carried on no matter what age we have reached.

Never should looking after your self be an afterthought, as it often comes to be later in life.

Do you feel lethargic? Depressed? Overweight? Bloated? Have low self esteem? Not drinking enough water? Is there an alternative to HRT? Suffer from sleep loss? Want that figure back you thought had gone forever? Do you exercise?

Answer yes to one or all of these issues, and then waste no more time lamenting.
-----

From Nina Bagnall

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Preview Novel That Helps Kids Make Life Choices

Belle's Star
By Connie Cotsch
Artemesia Publishing,info@artemesiapublishing.com 1-505-286-0892
Fiction: Children's
Illustrations by John Cogan



The first chapter of Belle's Star a youth novel by Farmington, New Mexico author Connie Gotsch is available for preview and pre order from its publisher, Artemesia Publishing at apbooks.net.

Written from a dog's point of view, Belle's Star empowers children ages 8 to 12 to build new lives after escaping bullying and abuse or other difficult situations.

Darcy, a spunky soccer playing girl, and her Aunt Ellen rescue Belle from abusive owners and offer her love. Belle has never met a kind human. Living with Darcy terrifies her. Other people and animals, including a cat, teach her about trust. Her adventures with these colorful characters help kids face painful issues.

Award winning journalist and retired Farmington elementary school counselor Margaret Cheasebro has designed an activities booklet for Belle's Star. The booklet will be available in downloadable form upon purchase of the novel.

The guide can assist in small group counseling and classroom sessions designed to help elementary school students understand abuse and deal with it. Home schooling parents, who like to read and discuss stories with kids, can use the guide. Families and community groups can work on projects that foster strong community ties. Veterinarians, pet store owners, and animal shelter workers can use the guide to promote pet care.

Farmington artist and animal lover John Cogan created black-and-white illustrations for each of the 14 chapters in Belle’s Star, and a color image for the book’s cover. Known for his landscape acrylics still lifes, portraits, and wildlife images, he shows work at El Prado Galleries in Sedona, Arizona; Galleries West in Jackson, Wyoming; and Southwest Galleries in Dallas, Texas.

To pre-order or read Chapter I of Belle's Star contact Artemesia Publishing at info@artemesiapublishing.com or 1-505-286-0892.


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Sensual Fantasy Anyone? Frugal E-Book Anyone?

Sister Warrior
By Teel James Glenn
Blog
Author’s e-mail: TeelJamesGlenn @ yahoo.com
Edited by Joan McNulty Pulver, Felicia Ellis, and Debi Markee
Fantasy/Sword and Sorcery
Published by ePress-Online Inc.
Website: ePress-Online.com
Publisher’s email: ePress-Online.com
Isbn#: 978-1-934258-15-6
Published May 2008
184 Pages
Priced at 14.99 pod and $5.00 for e-book version


Reviewed by Lee for Fantasybookreivew.co.uk

Sister Warrior is classic heroic fantasy, full to the brim with swords and sorcery. The book begins with a flourish and after a short prologue we join our blue-furred heroine, Ku’zn, as she sets out to free her brother from slavery...

I liked the descriptiveness of the author in regard to his characters; the attention to detail really pays off and allows the reader to form strong mental images… Relationships are integral to the story; Sister Warrior differs from the majority of fantasy in that it is not afraid to feature same-sex relationships. I found this refreshing as the fantasy genre has to move with the times and books like this will further promote acceptance in the “real” world.

Teel James Glenn has great experience as a fight choreographer and swordsman and he utilizes all of his knowledge and skill to produce truly breathtaking fight scenes. These sections are extremely important to a heroic / sword and sorcery book and this is where Sister Warrior really shines…

Fans of Robert E. Howard, Michael Moorcock and David Gemmell will enjoy Sister Warrior, the action is fast-paced, the excitement constant. Sister Warrior is just one Novel of Altiva and although knowledge of the prior books is not essential to enjoy this tale it will provide the reader with a greater understanding of the character. If you’re looking for an action-packed, sensual fantasy, then you need look no further.


Eight out of Ten stars

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Short Story Collection Earns Five-Star Reviews

In All Probability: A collection of short stories
By Steve Morris
Paperback: 140 pages
Publisher: Pneuma Springs Publishing (1 Feb 2009)
ISBN-10: 1905809433
ISBN-13: 978-1905809431
Genre : Fiction : Short Stories

Morris's first collection is well worth a read. Silky little belters at the start such as "Dead-Eye", "Lightning Strikes Twice" and "My tune" live off their late probability twists. More mainstream tales appear alongside quite bizarre offerings like the sci-fi based stories "Winston Churchill" and "If I could bottle it". It includes some retro-twisters that just "fill in" but I particularly rate Morris's darker "Progress" and the graphic "Revenge on a plate". It made me think.....
Recommended, and I hope to read more of his stuff

Reviewed by Dellboy
Rating 5 stars

-----

In all probability . . . one of the best collections of short stories I've ever read! Really likely characters and situations with which we can all draw parallels. A fantastic introduction to this talented author. When's the next volume Mr Morris?!


Reviewed by Miss K Hindley for Amazon.co.uk
Rating 5 stars

From the Author:

This book deliberately contains no heroes. The world does not revolve around heroes. It revolves around real people who sometimes find themselves in amazing situations. When we sympathise with the characters within these stories and with the ways that fate deals with them, we sympathise with ourselves. Some of the characters and events in these stories are based on real people and situations the author met along his way.

An assassin with a unique technique, an almost-was soccer star and a bitter long-forgotten one-hit-wonder pop star are just a few of the random characters who turn up within the stories in this book. Each are lovable in their own different ways and are doing their very best to dodge Lady Luck's sadistic target practice. Heroes they are not. And do they all live happily ever after? In all probability- probably not.


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Billie A. Williams Does Her Take on Mae West

Mae West - She Always Knew How
By Charlotte Chandler
Biography

Reviewed by Billie A Williams

Mae West is an icon. Her voice, her manner, her style are mimicked and mimed and duplicated but never could they out shine Ms. West herself. Charlotte Chandler has taken this legend of film and stage and brought her to the reader full and alive. You cannot read this book and come away with anything but awe and praise for both the star and her biographer.

Ms. West is delightful and candid, she is brilliant, intelligent and in love with life and her fans. She isn’t afraid to admit she loves men and diamonds. She isn’t afraid to say she always knew what she wanted and how to get it. She doesn’t whine about not having and yet she doesn’t boast about having. Her love and respect for her mother is clear and repeated often. She is grace, and charm. She is beauty and the beholder. Confidence, charisma, exuberance, energy and verve, how could you not fall in love with her after reading this delightful trip through her life. I’m sure she is standing at heaven’s gate whispering “Come on up and see me sometime.”

I highly recommend reading this if you need a boost to your spirits, if you want to know how to instill your children with a zest for living and confidence in what they want without being boorish. Charlotte Chandler took a monumental task and gave it the tweak only she could give it. Mae West and Charlotte Chandler never looked better..



Reviewer Billie A Williams is the author of The Capricorn Goat and other mystery suspense novels.

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Literary Novel Takes on Vietnam

Title: The Second Tour
Author: Terry P. Rizzuti
Category: Literary Fiction or War Novel
ISBN#: 978-1-906755-01-0
Publisher: Spinetinglers Publishing

Reviewed by Nolene P. Dougan
Reviewer’s Link: http://www.authorsden.com/visit/viewarticle.asp?AuthorID=39404&id=40803

Reviewer’s Rating: 5*


“What was it like in Vietnam—How in the hell do you describe it?”

This is clearly a question about which the author of The Second Tour, Terry P. Rizzuti, has thought long and hard. The results of his deliberation are found within the pages of his stunning debut novel, a work in which readers discover an intriguing and compellingly fresh answer.

The Second Tour tells the story of Vietnam in fragmented, non-sequential visions from the perspective of Rootie, a low-level marine. He describes how he and his friends survived, how they lived, and how they died—although not necessarily in that order. By also giving readers brief glimpses of his life after Vietnam, he allows them to see the tremendous impact that serving in Vietnam for just thirteen months has had on his life.

Despite his descriptions of the hardships of war, Rizzuti does not make any moral judgments about the men who fought in Vietnam. Rizzuti tells his story in a frank and subtle manner that prevents him from using the clichés to which so many authors of his genre resort. His matter-of-fact, conversational style often makes readers feel as if they have wandered into a bar where a Vietnam veteran is telling his story by recalling bits and pieces of what he remembers—maybe showing them the odd letter that he wrote home while Bob Dylan songs play on the jukebox.

Rizzuti’s style of writing completely captivates and intrigues his audience. As his story jumps decades, often within the span of several paragraphs, readers are frequently uncertain from which location or year the narrator is speaking as they read the initial line of any section. Although this may sound confusing or complicated to some potential readers, at no time do readers become overwhelmed, or does the novel become overly convoluted. Because Rootie’s flawlessly flowing narrative links all the events together, it is of no consequence that the events are narrated out of sequence; in fact, such a style of narration only adds to the enjoyment of this refreshing take on a subject that has been often explored.

In short, The Second Tour’s honesty, sincerity, and authenticity makes it clear from the beginning that this novel could only have been written by someone who was actually in Vietnam. Although a work of fiction, The Second Tour is based on events few have experienced, providing a fascinating insight into war and the boys who eventually become men when they are sent to fight it.

The Second Tour is not only an electrifying read for fans of the genre, but also a fitting epitaph for those who lost their lives far away from home.

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

The SACRED SIN
Also the author of Servant of the Realm
By Estevan Vega

Synopsis

Everyone has a past. One that is inescapable. Jude Foster, an L.A. homicide detective, is on the brink of mental collapse. A year ago, he was left for dead by Morgan Cross, a once-close friend and partner. Now, although forced to undergo mindless psychoanalytical diatribes in order to be reinstated into the department, the world apathetically spins on. When a dead body is found in West Hollywood, an investigation is set in motion and Jude realizes, with the aid of Rachel Cragin, his annoying new interim partner, that the first victim is only the beginning. The markings on the bodies are trails to a more sadistic pattern of evil, one Jude may or may not recognize. But how does someone stop a killer who’s slaying his victims by stealing their souls, without ever touching them? As the time ticks, the countdown begins. They will have one week to uncover the sacred sin…and the darkness that lies within all men.

-----

The author is a Connecticut native, and the novel he is trying to get published takes place in that state. He has have been featured on television, radio, in newspapers and online. Other published works have appeared in Teen Ink, Insomniattic, The Puck Review and The League of American Poets. I am a sophomore English major at Gordon College.

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

LaTonya Franklin Reviews Parker's Christian Fiction

All the Voices of the Wind
By Donald James Parker
Christian fiction
ISBN: 978-0615221830

Reviewed by Latonya Franklin for Apex Reviews


Jeremy Dillon is quite the accomplished young man. A talented athlete with an engaging personality, he's spirited, driven, and well-liked by his peers. With all that going for him, one would think that he'd have no problem being popular with the young ladies - but the opposite actually proves true, and, when the lovely Maria Masterson literally waltzes into his life one day, he is awestruck by her beauty, as well as the ineffable power and mystery that surround her.

After a few false starts, Jeremy finally succeeds in establishing a solid rapport with Maria, and the two of them quickly become close friends, sharing much of themselves with one another on the way to forming a unique spiritual bond. A devout Christian, Maria soon introduces Jeremy to a new way of seeing the world around him, and his ensuing spiritual journey engenders within him a new foundation of wisdom and intellectual maturity.

There's just one bump on Jeremy's road to enlightenment: his father. Ever since the untimely death of his mother, Jeremy's father has struggled with spiritual issues, and the notion of faith in an omnipotent higher power has become quite a difficult concept for him to accept. In the face of his father's skepticism, Jeremy soon finds it increasingly difficult to contend with the internal conflict with which his divided loyalties soon confront him as he moves forward in his own personal journey with Maria.

Book 3 in the Masterson Family Series, All The Voices Of The Wind offers a deeper, more probing look into the inner workings of a family in constant flux. The bond between Jeremy and his father remains strong, but as its strength is tested by Jeremy's budding relationship with Maria, the reader is presented with a realistic portrayal of just how difficult it can be for family members - no matter how close - to preserve the integrity of their respective unions.

In addition, Donald James Parker - in his typical intrepid style - tackles the topic of evolution head-on, offering insightful, well-thought-out analysis of the issue from all sides. His attention to detail ensures that the reader comes away with a comprehensive, in-depth perspective on the matter, and he does ultimate justice to a spirited debate that only continues to grow in intensity.

Moving, engaging, and entertaining, All The Voices Of The Wind is a heart-rending literary treat.





-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Photograph Reviews Photography Book

The Photographer’s Guide to New Mexico: Where to Find Perfect Shots and How to Take Them
By Efraín M. Padró.
The Countryman Press. Woodstock, Vermont.
96pp.
$14.95

Reviewed by R Thomas Berner Professor emeritus of journalism and American studies The Pennsylvania State University


Even before I bought this book, I knew I was going to like it. My wife and I have taken two workshops with the author, one at White Sands and the other in Las Cruces, and are ready for another. I am a big fan of Efraín M. Padró’s.

Because he and I are on a first-name basis, I’ll refer to the author/photographer as Efraín.

Efraín, who’s based in Santa Fe, begins the book with a four-page section titled “How I Photograph New Mexico.” It’s right out of his workshops, and for those of us who want to be better photographers, I can attest that it’s a value-packed four pages. One thing Efraín recommends that I’ve started to do more of: If he’s not shooting something in motion, he usually sets his ISO to 100 and uses a tripod.

One very important section in the opening is a short piece on etiquette when photographing on Native American soil. For those accustomed to being around Amish or other insular groups, the information will be redundant. Nevertheless, it’s worth repeating.

Efraín has divided the book into geographical areas and within the divisions suggested places to photograph. So Northwest New Mexico lists Shiprock, El Morro and Acoma Sky City among the 11 sites. North Central includes Taos and Santa Fe. Albuquerque shows up in Central New Mexico, and the two places Paulette and I have been with Efraín, Las Cruces and White Sands, appear in Southwest and Southeast New Mexico.

The author, who includes many of his own photographs in here, not only provides seasonal ratings for each area, but suggests lenses and filters for shooting certain events. He warns you if you’re going to encounter a low-light situation (and would need a tripod) and he advises on the best times to photograph (morning and evening, which are fairly universal, as he notes). He also suggests where to stand to capture the best light depending on the time of day. Sunrises and sunsets in New Mexico provide different lighting depending on where you’re standing and what the cloud cover is like.

Efraín concludes with his list of favorite sites, which he acknowledges is subjective.

Even if you are not a serious photographer or a wannabe like me, the book is invaluable as a guide to the sites and sights of photogenic New Mexico. About the only thing missing is a restaurant guide, and given the high number of good restaurants in New Mexico, such a guide would be unnecessary.

The revierer is R Thomas Berner, Professor emeritus of journalism and American studies The Pennsylvania State University. He is now blogging at http://rtberner.blogspot.com/ . He is an
editorial consultant, freelance writer, and photographer


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Linda Ballou Offers Authentic View of Hawai'i

Wai-nani, High Chiefess of Hawai'i: Her Epic Journey
By Linda Ballou
ISBN: 10:1-932993-88-6
ISBN:13: 978-1-932993-88-2

Reviewed by Bonnie Neely, Editor of Real Travel Adventures e-zine www.realtraveladventures.com


Wai-Nani, High Chiefess of Hawai'i: Her Epic Journey By Linda Ballou.
This, the author's first book, is a masterpiece and a fascinating read. The historic novel tells the dramatic and heart warming love story of Wai-Nani. By weaving the ancient legends of Old Hawaii into this compelling story, Ballou captivates the reader with her beautiful descriptions and very real characters who come alive in your imagination. The first few pages were a bit hard to read because the author has interjected real Hawaiian words into sentences in which the meaning is evident, but once I got the rhythm I could hardly put the book down. It is an excellent read, especially if you have been or plan to go to Hawaii.


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Mystery Set in Hawaii Catches Island Flavor

Pele’s Realm
By Roberta Summers
Silverjack Publishing
5101 College Blvd., Suite 5049
Farmington, NM 87402
505-566-3745/505-486-4709
FAX 505-566-3698
ISBN-10: 0981673724
ISBN-13: 978-0981673721
$15.95 Amazon

Reviewed by Connie Gotsch

An unsolved Hawaiian Mafia murder of the 1970s inspired author Roberta Summers to write “Pele’s Realm.” Twenty-five years of living in the Islands, watching constant eruptions of Mauna Ulna Crater on the flank of the Mauna Loa Volcano, art studies, running galleries, and learning Hawaiian legends further served as background for the book.

The plot is simple. John and Maggie marry and settle down for what they think will be an uneventful life of love and caring for each other. Unfortunately as the former owner owner of a Honolulu art gallery, Maggie has connections to a murdered Mafia wife. The woman’s husband and henchmen fear Maggie and John know too much about her for anybody’s good. Soon the somewhat psychic John has premonitions of disaster for himself and his wife.

From here,“Pele’s Realm” could unravel into just another detective story, but Summers’ knowledge of Hawaii, down to city streets in Honolulu and Hilo; and the terrain in Volcano National Park, gives the novel a sense of place not always present in crime genres. With this setting, she uses Hawaiian custom and belief, to drive plot and develop character in the story.

Action rises amid vivid descriptions of wedding leis, curtains of volcanic fire, lush vegetation, sudden storms, sea turtle rides, and luxurious yachts. The volcano itself and the goddess Pele who controls it become central to the drama. The combination keeps the reader turning the pages to the end. “Pele’s Realm” makes a great escape from winter in the United States, and a good introduction to an ancient culture that has adapted to modern times.
-----
Connie Gotsch is author of A Mouth Full of Shell and Snap Me a Future and was Featured in "The Complete Writer's Journal" published by Red Engine Press.Learn more at www.conniegotsch.com


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Ruth Hartman Shares Struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Title: My Life in Mental Chains: My Struggle With Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Author: Ruth Hartman
Published by Pipers’ Ash Ltd., $13.00
Publication Date: November 1, 2008
Non-Fiction, True-Life Story Chapbook
ISBN# 9781906928001
http://www.ruthjhartman.blogspot.com

Reviewed by Joanne Hirase-Stacey

I didn’t know much about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) before I read Ruth Hartman’s true story, My Life in Mental Chains. I’d heard of people who wash their hands over and over, or constantly check appliances to make sure they’re off or unplugged, but had never given their obsession much thought. After reading Ruth’s book, I’ve come to realize that OCD is an illness that consumes its victim and overtakes his or her life.

OCD seems to strike out of nowhere. Ruth led a normal life with her husband, and was a dental hygienist. Then one day, everything changed. While cleaning her dental instruments, her thoughts became obsessive. She couldn’t stop scrubbing. Her job performance began to suffer as she got behind schedule, keeping patients waiting. After her boss and fellow employees confront her, she starts to spin out of control.

She realizes she needs professional help, and despite the stigma and worry of being labeled “crazy”, Ruth bravely meets with her doctor, but doesn’t want anyone besides her husband, to know of her OCD diagnosis. She tries to hide it, to be normal, but the OCD gets worse, and it becomes hard to leave the house.

She eventually tells her family and her husband’s family. To her relief, they embrace her, support her and love her through all her ordeals. Ruth finally takes another job to help pay the bills, only to have her boss tear her down. And someone she thought was her friend abandons her. But she continues with her treatment and faces her OCD head on.

Ruth does a fantastic job of drawing you into her dark world of fear and anxiety. You’ll find yourself saddened by those who mistreat her, and encouraged by those who stand by her. You’ll cheer for her as she fights her way back, through the agonizing steps necessary to become herself again.

This book is a must read for anyone who knows nothing about OCD, as well as those who have first hand experience with OCD either as a patient or a family member or friend. It takes you into the life of one woman and her daily struggle with OCD, and gives you comfort and hope in knowing that OCD is treatable.

Hartman's book may be ordered on Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw_0_17?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=my+life+in+mental+chains&sprefix=my+life+in+mental Please copy and paste the address.
-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Oklahome History Paramount in New Cowboy Story

Prairie Dog Cowboy
By V. Gilbert Zabel
ISBN: 978-0-9797513-7-0
Publisher: 4RV Publishing
Genre: juvenile/ historical/ fiction

Review by Jacque Graham, author and editor

One of the newest young adult books to be released is the historical fiction book
Prairie Dog Cowboy written by Oklahoma author Vivian Gilbert Zabel using the name V. Gilbert Zabel:

Five-year-old Buddy sits in his snow-packed tumbleweed igloo dreaming of becoming a real cowboy who rides a horse. When he crawls out to run after one of the family's wayward cows, he sees cowboy rancher Caleb Hyman from the neighboring ranch riding toward him. When Buddy confides his dream to Caleb, he is told that if he practices his roping skills until he can rope a prairie dog Caleb will hire him to work on the Hyman ranch.

Buddy spends his days in the pasture guarding the family cows and throwing his rope
toward the prairie dog villages, eventually becoming adept at roping the small animals.

Two of his older brother's friends observe Buddy's pastime and tease him about being a "Prairie Dog Cowboy."

True to his word, Caleb hires Buddy. The boy successfully breaks horses to saddle
as he works for the ranch and on his family’s farm. Buddy is accepted by the Hyman
family and older ranch hands as he becomes a successful cowhand. The Hyman family
arranges to keep Buddy at the ranch, knowing that this will free him from the abuse he experiences from his family.

Zabel uses the Oklahoma Panhandle as the setting for this story and incorporates
some of her husband's early cowboy experiences for a realistic story of pre-statehood
Oklahoma. This book captures the young reader's attention while giving a realistic view into early frontier life as Buddy grows up.

This is a book that should be in every school library as well as in the hands of young adult readers. Find it at any bookstore, Amazon.com or 4RVPublishing.

The author of Prairie Dog Cowboy blogs at Brain Cells & Bubble Wrap. She reminds readers that everyone who leaves a comment on this blog will be entered in a drawing for a 4RV Publishing canvas bag. Four will be given away at the end of the book blog tour. A comment per stop equals one entry in the drawing so check out Brain Cells & Bubble Wrap, too.


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

The Story of a Bump on a Golden Retriever's Nose

The Bump on Lucy's Nose
By R. Thomas Berner
Published by Marquette Books
Children's fiction


Written and illustrated by retired Penn State journalism professor R Thomas Berner, The Bump on Lucy's Nose tells what happens when 10-year-old Sarah discovers a bump on her 10-year-old golden retriever's nose. Rescued at 2, Lucy had become Sarah's faithful companion and the bond between them helps save Lucy's life.

This realistic and informative story will help children understand the importance of paying close attention to their pets and the crucial role that veterinarians play in the lives of pets.

The Lucy who inspired this story was rescued by the Berners in Pennsylvania and retired to Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2003. She enjoys walking on the trails near her home and resting in the shade of pinon trees.

The Bump on Lucy's Nose is available at www.marquettebooks.com and amazon.com


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Still Offering Marketing Opportunities!

Christine Alexaninans and I still have a few places available in our authors' coop booth. We reserved it at LA Times Festival of Books (on the UCLA Campus) in the same location as in previous years. If you're interested contact Christine: chalexwrite@yahoo.com. And learn more about book fair booths in general and thisone in particular at www.sizzlingbookfairbooths.blogspot.com

E-Book Introduced for Horror Fans

Title: I,AM
Author: Deon Sanders
Publisher: Double Dragon Publishing, 2006
E-Book, 104 pages
ISBN: 1554043158 Amazon (Kindle edition)
9781554043156 Double Dragon
$5.99

"At first, when darkness covered the earth and the sun rested in the propensity of God, entrenched in the darkness was I,AM-a force of relentless evil."

The premise of Deon Sanders’ work of horror is that an evil entity, I,AM, battles directly with God--and loses. God summarily slices I,AM into three parts (an Unholy Trinity?) using a "Lance of Transgression" and converts the parts to stone.

After a brief retelling and slight re-spin of the seven-day Genesis introduction, Sanders tells us that God "...chucked the first rock into the bottom of the Black Sea near the shores of Odessa. He propelled the second rock into the hottest part of what would become the Sahara desert in Algeria hidden under mountains of sand. Then, with great thunder, God threw the last rock to the top of where the North Pole would be, near Greenland. The rock landed in a frozen iceberg under a massive peak on the tip of the Arctic Ocean."

From this passage one can garner a sense of how language is used by the author throughout the one-hundred-and-five-page book; "chuck", "propelled", "threw"-–"rock, rock, rock". The point is made, and articulately enough – but not artfully.

The plot begins in earnest by revealing that the battle, now myth, is inscribed on an ancient scroll. Along with this is a map showing the locations of the three pieces and the Lance (which turns out to be an amulet). Naturally, the path is full of peril and tests of purity; there are many attempts–-none fruitful.

Eventually, we are introduced to a character named Kumhuma who, not intending to seek the scroll nor the amulet (Lance of Transgression), is drawn to them both, finding his own challenges along the route. Once the scroll is found it is moved to a presumably safer location, and Kumhuma, in secret, dons the amulet.

Predictably, the location is betrayed, with violent results, to an evil group of mercenary Americans (financed by "Egypt, Europe, India and the United States without the President’s knowledge"). The amulet, however, makes its way safely to Kumhuma’s brother Michael, in Chicago.

Sixteen years later, the stones, now found, arrive in Chicago to be ceremoniously unveiled. It is during this event that the stones re-unite to form the evil I,AM--it seems that the only one who can stop the ensuing terror is an amulet-protected Chicago Homicide detective named Michael Zeiss--Kumhuma’s now-grown brother.

Part of the full rebirth of I,AM involves a human host and this provides another opportunity to show a taste of the book’s particular writing style and sense of humor:

"Mary walked somewhat hindered, due to the extra weight of her pregnancy. Being huge, her belt barely went around her stomach, her breasts were just about to jump out of her shirt, and her derriere could eclipse the sun... The voice of I,AM rang out and was all Mary could hear. She turned and hightailed it to the exit of the exhibit room, but the doors had a mind of their own. They closed right in front of her and she was trapped."

A larger portion of the rest of the book describes the many evil doings of I,AM as he flexes his inhuman (perhaps "too human") muscles to murder and cause chaos. We follow Detective Zeiss as he, and those near and dear to him, fight the monster-–or die trying.

Sanders’ greatest strength in this multi-genre work is that he can spin an epic tale based on widely-held beliefs while adding something elementally new. Some of the writing may be elementary, but this does have the benefit of propelling the story forward at a brisk and engaging pace. Given the long timeline of the work the result is, on balance, positive.

If you enjoy horror along with stories based in religious faith, political intrigue or detective drama I’M sure "I,AM" will fit quite nicely on your shelf.

-----

Deno Sandz, a husband and father of six, was born in Alabama and raised in Chicago. He is the prolific author of two supernatural/horror novels titled Miss Mary Weather: A Southern Nightmare, I AM, Pen of Iniquity.

-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

The Plight of Scientists Revealed in New Work of Fiction

Title: ConvergenceAuthor: Christopher Turner
Website: www.convergence-cpt.com
Download book from www.ebook.com/eBooks/eBooks/Literature/Convergence (1st 15 pages are free)
A limited number of free copies of Convergence are available. Send e-mail to Christopher Turner at general@convergence-cpt.com if you wish to have a free copy for review (please mention where you came across the book).
Genre: Science Fiction, Politics
ISBN:(eBook)


Written by a scientist for a main-stream audience, Convergence documents the surprisingly cut-throat world of science and reflects the real-world experiences of tens of thousands of young researchers everywhere. There are four main storylines, each involving a woman seemingly unrelated to the other three. Convergence begins by slowly taking the reader into the world of science and discovery, an apparently benign culture full of supportive people. However, despite the moral purity of the four main protagonists, sinister undercurrents undermine each storyline as the novel progresses. Thus, although starting out purely as a science mystery, Convergence develops into a slow-burning political drama.

At the core of the novel are ethical and moral issues that are frequently revisited throughout the book, echoing similar themes contained within The Demon Haunted World and Contact (Carl Sagan). However, at times Convergence has the convoluted but fast-paced storyline of The Da Vinci Code (Dan Brown).

Unless books like Convergence make it out into the mainstream, the plight of our future scientists will likely never change. Certainly, a novel such as Convergence is long, long overdue.


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Hey! Some Days Women Need a Field Guide of Their Own!

Title: The Woman's Field Guide to Exceptional Living
Subtitle: Practical Steps for Living a Big, Bold, Beautiful Life!
Author: Corrie Woods
Publisher: Morgan James Publishing (2008)
ISBN 9781600373954
Web site: http://www.womansfieldguide.comReviewed

Reviewed by LuAnn Morgan for RebeccasReads

Have you ever felt like you were missing something vital in your life? Maybe you haven’t lived up to your full potential or maybe you feel overwhelmed by day-to-day living? Then, this is the book for you!

Corrie Woods offers a series of practical steps to living the life you’ve always wanted to live. Easy to follow suggestions lead the reader through a series of lessons and guidelines that promise to be life changing. From celebrating life to self-courtship to personal retreats to learning from the past, Woods will lead you on a journey to help you be the woman you’ve always wanted to be.

Woods credits her grandfather with planting the seed that made her decide to live her life to the fullest. She wanted to be able to end her life (whenever that may be) with the words, “If I had my life to live over again I wouldn’t change a thing. No regrets!”

After reading The Woman’s Field Guide, I truly believe that can be accomplished by following Woods’ advice … but it won’t be easy. These are steps that will force you to look honestly at yourself and how you perceive your life. Then, you have to actually complete the assignments she gives you in order to make some key changes.

The lessons aren’t difficult, but they are designed to be thought provoking. The only way you will accomplish these tasks is to look inside your own soul and listen to your conscience.

Technorati Tags:
Morgan James Publishing, corrie woods, Rebeccas Reads (Reviews), luann morgan (reviewer), the new book review, inspirtatoional book, self-help books
Add to: | Technorati | Digg | del.icio.us | Yahoo | BlinkList | Spurl | reddit | Furl |


-----
The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.