The New Book Review

This blog, #TheNewBookReview, is "new" because it eschews #bookbigotry. It lets readers, reviewers, authors, and publishers expand the exposure of their favorite reviews, FREE. Info for submissions is in the "Send Me Your Fav Book Review" circle icon in the right column below. Find resources to help your career using the mini search engine below. #TheNewBookReview is a multi-award-winning blog including a MastersInEnglish.org recommendation.

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Laugh-Out-Loud Historical Fiction

 
The Doctor's Daughter
by Belle Blackburn
Historical fiction (romance & mystery too)
ISBN 978-0615690957
Available on Amazon
Publisher: Createspace
 
 
Reviewed by Don Creekmore originally for Amazon
 
 
I have to admit that I normally am not a reader of fiction. However, on the suggestion of a friend I found myself immediately engrossed in the story of Kate, a young woman coming of age in the early days of Civil War Nashville. Belle Blackburn has succeeded in weaving the little known details of that time into a story that includes love, revenge, compassion, and humor. She provides insight into how the upheaval of the Civil War affected individuals and families on both sides of the social "tracks". The story has more twists, turns, and surprises than the road from Nashville to Peony. When you think you have "figured it out" you quickly find out you don't. Blackburn's humor sneaks up on you in the oddest places. I actually laughed out loud - not something that I do very often when reading a book. If you like a story that tugs at your heart, raises your spirit, surprises you continuously, and educates, I highly recommend the "Doctor's Daughter." I look forward to the sequels.
 
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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 read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine 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.

Monday, August 26, 2013

Children's Author Calls Fellow Author's Book Wonderful Read

Cassie & Chloe's Captivating Crystal Crawlspace Chronicles

By Trinisse ChanelISBN: 978-1460994030Paperback: 194 pages
Purchase this title in paperback 
Purchase this title as an e-book


Reviewed by  Sarah Renee originally for Amazon


The first in a series, Cassie and Chloe's Captivating Crystal Crawlspace Chronicles introduces readers to two brave, adventurous girls named Cassie and Chloe. As the story unfolds, the two curious girls find themselves stumbling into an exciting new world filled with incredible new sights. Along with their adorable Pomeranian Moondoggie and their sweet cat Pierre, the sisters explore the new world of Serendipity Springs and meet a lot of curious but delightful people and find a lot of amazing adventures.

The siblings Vicky and Nicky, who live in Serendipity Springs, become Cassie and Chloe's guides to show them this new world--and along the way, form a deep friendship. The group of six: Cassie, Chloe, Vicky, Nicky, Moondoggie, and Pierre -take part in a lot of exciting different activities. Among many other spectacular adventures, the six friends play exciting games in a place called the House of Fun, have exciting adventures in many different places from New York to Japan at a place called the Dress-Up Pavilion, enter into the worlds of different books in the Magical Mystical Library, and see dozens of other incredible places in Serendipity Springs.

However, the group is also troubled by the appearance of two evil twins. The brave girls, along with their pets and their new friends, try to help the people of Serendipity Springs stop the twins evil plan and must use logic and courage to outwit the evil pair.

Cassie and Chloe meet many friendly people in Serendipity Springs and form plenty of wonderful friendships. The adventures they go on in this new world are exciting and very imaginative. The girls and their friends are great role models to exemplify friendship, creativity, and bravery in the face of danger. The different adventures Cassie and Chloe find in Serendipity Springs will captivate and delight the imaginations of children. I recommend this book for children around ages 7-11 who enjoy a good book filled with wonderful characters and exciting adventures.
ABOUT THE REVIEWER

The reviewer is an author of children's books in her own right.

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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 read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine 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.

Sunday, August 25, 2013

Children's Book Asks Questions Kids--and Owls--Ask

Title of Book: The Owl Who Couldn’t WHOO
Author: LeeAnna Kail
World of Ink Author/Book Tour at http://tinyurl.com/n5bul86
Twitter: @LA_Kail
Publisher: Halo Publishing, Int.
ISBN Number(s): 978-1-61244-129-0
Genre of Book: Children’s picture book
Publication Date: Feb. 2013
 
Synopsis provided by World of Ink Network

“Join Ollie on his adventure in searching for his sister and learning the significance of being different.”

About the Book:
Ollie is known for one thing in his village: he is the only owl who cannot “WHOO.” The other owls tease him for saying “WHEERE!” or “WHEEN!” or “WHYY!” and sometimes “WHAAT!” All Ollie wants is to fit in, but when his little sister gets lost in the woods, Ollie discovers he can help.
While providing insightful perspectives on diversity, The OWL Who Couldn’t WHOO offers educators, libraries, parents and young readers a fresh new look on anti-bullying and self-confidence.
 
Overall Thoughts:
This cute picture book will help children struggling with speech and self-esteem. There is also the underlying theme about not being a bullying and getting along with those different from you.
 
EXCERPT:
Ollie lived in a parliament of Spotted Owls deep in the forest. He was the only owl that did not, “WHOO!” Instead, Ollie said, “WHEERE!” or “WHEEN!” or “WHYY!” and sometimes “WHAAT!” The other owls teased him.
“WHOO is the only owl in the village that cannot WHOO! Ollie, Ollie, Ollie that is WHOO!” they chanted together.
“You say funny words,” Hooty shouted. “You sound silly!” Spotty made fun of Ollie. “Are you even a real owl?” Percy teased.
Poor Ollie felt sad. He couldn’t help screeching, “WHEERE!” or “WHEEN!” or “WHYY!” and sometimes “WHAAT!”
 
About the Author: 
Ever since LeeAnna Kail was little, she had an interest in writing. In fact, when she was in the fourth grade, she completed a career project and dressed as an author with dreams of writing her own book one day.
LeeAnna attended Duquesne University with a double major in political science and English with intentions of attending law school after graduation. While studying abroad in Rome, Italy, LeeAnna had a change of heart and decided to continue her education at Duquesne studying elementary education instead. She knew she found her niche the first day of class. Inspired by an assignment from a children’s literature course, LeeAnna's dream of writing a book has come true.

LeeAnna currently teaches in Pittsburgh and hopes to be an inspiration to her students to follow their dreams.
 
To learn more about the World of Ink Tours visit http://worldofinknetwork.com

SUBMITTED BY 
Virginia S Grenier 
Founder & Partner, World of Ink Network
Bringing Authors and Readers Together
Office: 435-625-1743
Follow us on Twitter
 
Like us on Facebook

Award-winning Author & Editor
 
Member of League of Utah Writers/HWG chapter president

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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 read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine 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.

Saturday, August 24, 2013

J.Q. Pens Mystery with Sweet Romance and Humor

Title: Coda to Murder
Author: J.Q. Rose
Author's Web site: http://www.jqrose.com
Genre: Mystery, sweet romance
ISBN 978-1-77127-274-2
Published by amazon
Reviewer's Rating 5 Stars

 
Reviewed by Sue Pernz originally for Amazon.com  
Inspirational with murder and humour

At first this seems like an ordinary murder with romance, but J.Q. Rose has brought in her usual (or should I say unusual) sense of humor. A cat, pig and kangaroo also take major parts in the story. Christine gets into all sorts of situations, both dangerous and funny, when she tries to solve the murder mystery.

I have read J.Q. Rose's books before and this is another good one. The author has that uncanny knack of putting together a serious situation with a touch of humor. Not too much, just enough to lighten the thread, without being insulting to the deceased. J.Q. Rose managed to make romance and murder a believable possibility and for this I commend her.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which says a lot as I don't usually read inspirational books, but this is a definite "can't put it down" book. Well done Ms. Rose, can't wait for the next book from your writing desk.
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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 read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine 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.

Friday, August 23, 2013

Midwest Review Gives Children's Book a Heads Up

Title: A Different Little Doggy
Category:                  Children / Picture Book                                                        
Author:                      Heather Whittaker              
Publisher:                 Pen – Tech Professional LLC
Price:                         $9.99 (retail)
Page Count:             28
ISBN #:                      978-0-9820962-2-2
Audience:               
Children ages 4 – 7
Website:                  www.adifferentlittledoggy.com

Originally Reviewed for Midwest Book Review 
    

Being different in any area often times can rattle our world, whether it is with ourselves or others. However, if we realize that being different is not bad, merely a situation that simply needs understanding and tolerance. In this well written work by author, Heather Whittaker, we meet, Taz, a wonderful little dog. Taz shares her life with the reader from being small, to having pins put in to fix her knees, and even to going blind. Taz is not one to complain, feel sorry for herself, or blame others. No, she works to overcome and live her life to the fullest. What a gal and role modal she is.

This is a wonderful book with top of the notch, colorful, and real to life illustrations that draw you right into the storyline. Using a love-able dog, our author shows how we should accept ourselves, and others for what and who we are. The story shows that just because someone may not be able to do all others can, does not make them less of a person (or doggy), nor would it make them less of a friend. It teaches acceptance and love in a warm and wonderful way. I enjoyed this read and feel it has a very important lesson for young and old, told in an upbeat and joyous manner, that will leave you feeling good inside. Well done! Recommended.

 
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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 read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine 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.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

New Reviewer Details Ainsworth's Emerald


Title: Emerald
Author: John Ainsworth
Genre: Fiction: Thriller
Available on Amazon

Reviewed by Zach Tyo originally for IndieBookReview.Blogspot.com
 


 
               For my first review I’ve chosen a story from Indie Author John Ainsworth, in particular his book Emerald.
                The story follows childhood friends Danny, Patrick and Sarah in their journey through life. From growing up in the slums of Liverpool, England during the 70’s, to war-torn North Ireland and run ins with the violent IRA. As their lives and friendships become ripped apart amid tragedy; the only thing holding them together is a childhood promise, which even they may not be able to keep.


                Ainsworth tells his story well and in a way that makes you ask question after question, but with very well thought out flashbacks he manages to tell two stories in one. On one side you have events taking place in Liverpool that builds you up.  Each chapter questions get answered and the way the story moves between the world of the children in Liverpool to adults in England and Ireland is wonderful and it flows very well.


                A big plus for me, and this may not be important for some people, is that the more followed of the three characters is a member of the British army, of which Ainsworth has served in himself. This character is the most relatable of the three, and you can see that the writer’s personality comes through in him.


                The story is more than a tale of vengeance. It truly makes you dive deep into your own personal psyche and wonder how far you would go if you were in Patrick’s shoes. Would you scour the earth and kill the one that took your love away, or would you forgive and try to forget Could you move on if you were the one reason your sister was dead? Or would it move you to kill?


                There are several pros in this story, a fact that I am genuinely happy about since this is my first review and I get to kick it off with a bang:
  •         Each chapter that begins with a flashback you find yourself wondering how it will tie in with the events of the characters’ adult lives.


  •  Each fight scene, and there are several, keeps you turning the page for the next blow as you wonder who will come out on top.


  •  The story is one of those that I couldn’t put down, and it kept me interested throughout.


  In addition to the positives there are, as always, some negatives that come with it. I do caution that the positives far outweigh the negatives:
  • While the story’s pace throughout is good, the first two chapters began a little slow and the flashbacks started off a bit confusing.


  • The three childhood friends/main characters were very relatable and I found myself vested in them, unfortunately a few of the ancillary characters had personalities that you knew were big but yet they didn’t quite come off that way.      


In the end Ainsworth’s Emerald is more than worth the read, as long as you like a fast paced story that moves far but remains smooth in its transitions. The story is compelling, the characters likable, and the journey is great for a weekend read (or if it catches you the way it did me a day’s read).  


Overall Emerald by John Ainsworth scores a solid 7/10 for me based on:


7/10 for readability- though the story starts out a little slow, it quickly picks up and redeems itself in a wonderful way.


9/10 for story- throughout the story I tried to find something I could compare it to, or something it shared similarities to. Some people may say it just seems like a tail of vengeance cut and dry, but the way Ainsworth spins it that’s far from the mark on this one.


6/10 for characters- as I stated earlier the main characters are wonderful, but there are quite a few ‘extras’ that didn’t hit the mark. All characters involved contributed to the story in some way, but I found myself asking who and what when they came in with strong dialogue and were gone the next paragraph.


7/10 for thrills/action- this last category is the ‘wild’ card of the bunch. Each story has its own selling point, and for me in this story it’s the action sequences and the overall ‘thriller’ component. The action sequences were great, and fight scenes well-choreographed. Unfortunately a few of them were over so quick it didn’t feel like they were done justice, but these were the minority. As for the overall ‘thriller’ component I found myself thoroughly interested and on the edge of my seat as the ending built up, and prepared to be surprised because you will be fooled into thinking you know what’s coming, but you don’t.


I’m very happy, and thankful, John Ainsworth allowed me to do a review of Emerald. I really enjoyed the story and I suggest picking it up for your next ‘guilty pleasure’ session. The 3.99 price tag on Amazon’s Kindle store is more than worth it.

If you'd like to check out Emerald for yourself click here.

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read my review, as I said in the first post please feel free to comment on anything. I'm still trying to figure out my 'niche' as a reviewer so any comments on the overall format would be more than appreciated.
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Reach the reviewer at his blog or on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ZachTyo

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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 read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine 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.

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Use TV and Radio to Maximize Your visibility

How to Share Your Message, Your Products and Your Business with the World! By Kristen White
Order and get bonus gifts at: http://bit.ly/14RMPEe

Many New Book Review readers have a powerful message you'd like to share with the world and you’d love to be an expert on TV and Radio shows. Now,
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 Voice: How to Share your Message, Your Business and Your Product with the World. It was created to help you find your authentic voice and to use your message to transform the lives of others.

You may have amazing solutions to end the suffering on the planet, however,
these strategies remain widely unknown because you do not know 
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As a media coach, who is currently active in the media as a broadcaster, 
Kristen White teaches you:


  • How to be effective on camera and
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  • Steps to create a media soundbite to use effectively during an interview 
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Kristen's goal is to help you to become an enlightened media expert. When
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kristen White, MMC, ICF is a member Professional Business and Life Coach, Media Coach, Author Mentor, WEB TV Video Producer, Spirituality/ Transformational Author, Thought-Leader, Speaker and Trainer, Radio Host and Intuitive Business Designer. Kristen enjoys helping entrepreneurs succeed in business and in life.
Kristen White has more than a decade of experience as an award-winning television journalist and anchor. She’s interviewed politicians, Hollywood celebrities, professional athletes and rock stars including Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, Kevin Costner, Johnny Depp, Marianne Williamson and Arielle Ford. As the host of her own online radio show, Reporting Live from the Universe on Vivid Life Radio, Kristen has featured and interviewed more than 140 best-selling authors and personal growth experts.

SUBMITTED BY
Denise Cassino
Now Financing Options Available!
http://www.bestsellerservices.com/
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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 read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine 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.