The only rules are to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your eReader and find a sentence or a few (no spoilers) that grabs you and post it.
Then go over to Freda’s Voice and leave your link so we can visit your 56!
My 56 for this week is from
A Monster Calls
by Patrick Ness
Genre: YA Fantasy
My 56 from the hard cover.
Conor glanced again at the monster’s massive arms and legs, and its raggedy, toothy smile, at its overwhelming monstrousness.
The story, said the monster, is not yet finished.
Read on if you want to know more.
My Review
This was an unexpected surprise. I was anticipating a horror story. Instead, I got a story of bravery, loss, hope, and a journey to acceptance.
Conor’s under attack. Not from the monster of his dreams. From an ancient one. It wants something from Conor and wreaks havoc, terrorizing him and threatening those around him. It wants the truth and will not stop until Conor gives it to him.
I spotted this book on a blog. I was curious when she mentioned it being something other than what it sounded like, and I wanted to see the illustrations. I was lucky when I discovered the library had a copy available and drove to get it straight away.
Not so much horror as a journey, the monster was terrifying, but the journey was more so. Especially for Conor.
He must face and accept what’s coming. So much for such a young boy. Conor rages against it. Stands up to the monster. Acts out in terrible ways. But he can’t outrun what must happen.
My 21 year old son read this book and described it as magical, majestic.
I read it in one sitting, taking in the wonderful illustrations, relishing every word, and feeling every emotion.
One for all ages. A light in the darkness.
5 Stars
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Synopsis
The monster showed up after midnight. As they do.
But it isn’t the monster Conor’s been expecting. He’s been expecting the one from his nightmare, the one he’s had nearly every night since his mother started her treatments, the one with the darkness and the wind and the screaming…
This monster is something different, though. Something ancient, something wild. And it wants the most dangerous thing of all from Conor.
Braking for Bodies:
A Cycle Path Mystery Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series Publisher: Berkley (April 5, 2016) Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages ISBN-13: 978-0425268957 E-Book ASIN: B011IVP3ME
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My Review
Not having read any books in this series, I’m jumping in mid stream. That didn’t stop me from enjoying this book. Sure, it would be better to meet the characters from the beginning. I’ll fix that when I grab the first book.
Wow. This book takes off and never slows down. Evie Bloomfield rushes from one thing to the next, trying to clear her friend’s name after she’s accused of murdering Peep. He’s the scum bag who came to Mackinac Island to blackmail Fiona. No surprise he’s found dead, killed by a bottle of virgin olive oil, no less. Said bottle last seen in Fiona’s hand.
From here on, things take a turn for the hilarious. The Corpse Crusaders, a group of guests at The Grand Hotel, think this is a parlor game and they are all up in the investigation, seeking clues, tampering with crime scenes, and generally making a nuisance of themselves. Evie and sexy local policeman Nate Sutter let them believe this, figuring to solve the murder with none the wiser, and they don’t want something like murder to ruin the upcoming Lilac Festival, a big draw for the island.
There’s a couple of scenes where Evie needs to get rid of the Corpse Crusader’s so she drops hints that Nate has the answers. I can just imagine his face when they start pestering him. She’s such a pistol.
I tell ya, following Evie around the island was exhausting. She’s either pedaling a bike all over the place or stealing Nate’s horse. And she’s not the best at sleuthing. From braking into and out of jail, to destruction of property and aiding and abetting a fugitive, my head was spinning. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with this much mayhem. And so many laughs.
About stealing Nate’s horse. I’ve been to Mackinac Island a few times, and cars aren’t allowed there. You can walk, rent a bike, or ride a horse or in a carriage. It’s such a difference from the traffic noise. And the cafes and shops are delightful.
I kind of felt for the poor girl. Evie is so busy running the bike shop, helping to pull together Nate’s mothers wedding after everything falls apart, and saving her best friend from spending the rest of her life in jail, she doesn’t even have time to do her laundry. She’s running around the island in dirty clothes and her hair, well, you can imagine. Yet, she never flinches. Never loses her sense of humor. I’d “kill” for a friend like her.
An island community is a lot like a small town. Most people know each other, at least by sight. The islanders are taking bets on when Nate and Evie will hook up. It added one more fun plot to this book. I placed my own bet. Now to see if I’m a winner.
A laugh riot from beginning to end. This is a cozy series you won’t want to miss.
4 Stars
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Synopsis
Evie Bloomfield puts the pedal to the metal—in the latest Cycle Path mystery from the national bestselling author of Geared for the Grave.
Moving from Los Angeles to small, picturesque Mackinac Island to work in a bike shop might seem crazy, but Evie knows it’s the best decision she’s ever made. That’s not to say she’s gotten rid of all her stress; after all, the upcoming Lilac Festival has everyone in town riding in circles.
But things really go downhill when a ferry full of tourists—including Evie’s friend Fiona’s former boss, the editor of a sleazy rag in LA—arrives on the island. No one knows why Peephole Perry came all the way to Mackinac, but things aren’t looking good for Fiona when Peep is found dead. Now Evie has to gear up and get a grip on the truth if she wants to clear her friend’s name…
Author Duffy Brown
While others girls dreamed of dating Brad Pitt, Duffy Brown longed to take Sherlock Holmes to the prom. Today she conjures up who-done-it stories for Berkley Prime Crime and has two series, the national bestselling Consignment Shop Mysteries set in Savannah and the Cycle Path Mysteries on Mackinac Island.
Cozy Mystery 4th in Series Publisher: Berkley (April 5, 2016) Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages ISBN-13: 978-0425282809 E-Book ASIN: B011IUSQXI
My Review
I’ve read another book in this series and was looking forward to seeing old friends and getting to know some new characters.
The story takes place in Michigan and that’s a big plus as I grew up there. Always fun to see if you recognize any of the locations.
It was so fun getting to know Clyde. She, yes, Clyde is a woman, is quirky, tough, sometimes naive, and very impetuous. She keeps you on your toes and sometimes you’ll want to shake her. LOL
It’s almost time for the Zombie Fun Run. Clyde waited too long to start getting in shape and wishes she’d chosen to be one of the zombies instead of a runner now. Hopefully she won’t be the only one struggling when the zombies come after them.
She also has some unexpected guests to contend with too. Clyde’s sister, Grace has shown up, along with her husband. Grace hasn’t set foot in Crystal Haven in many years, shunning the town and it’s claims of paranormal talent.
Clyde’s radar is telling her something bad is coming, and sure enough, someone is found dead during the zombie race. All the way dead.
With startling secrets revealed, there ‘s a plethora of suspects to choose from. Time to put the special talents to work and find the killer before more bodies turn up.
What a fun story. I love the paranormal element. It would be fun to live in a town where everyone plies their abilities. All those shops with the unusual wares to peruse. I could pick up some special teas and get my fortune told on any given day.
I’m huge on stories driven by genuine characters, and their are plenty here. The author throws in some ringers so the mystery isn’t easily solved. There’s some romance, not too much, just enough to make you smile. And something’s always about to happen.
Welcome to Crystal Haven. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the visit as much as I did.
4 Stars
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Synopsis
Psychic Clyde Fortune and her zany family are back in the fourth in the national bestselling series from the author of A Fright to the Death. Former cop and novice psychic Clyde Fortune finds herself in a race for justice when a Zombie Fun Run turns deadly…
All of Crystal Haven, Michigan, is psyching up to participate in a Zombie Fun Run organized by Clyde’s nephew Seth, but Clyde is fretful about the undead festivities. For one thing, her sister, Grace, has unexpectedly returned to town after fifteen years. For another, Clyde has the nagging feeling that something is about to go wrong…
When one of the zombie runners is found murdered and then Grace disappears, Clyde realizes her grim premonition is dead-on. Now, she and her police detective boyfriend Mac must find a ghoulish murderer before someone points the finger at Grace. And when a tangled web of family secrets and old grudges combines with a mysterious case of stolen diamonds, even someone as quick-witted as Clyde might not be able to outrun a killer…
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Author Dawn Eastman
Dawn Eastman lived in Michigan for many years, in a house full of animals, unusual people, and laughter. She now lives in Iowa with her family and one extremely bossy small dog. She is the national bestselling author ofThe Family Fortune Mystery Series, which features psychics, animal communication, quirky characters and murders.
Not one for a lot of non-fiction reading, I can honestly say, you don’t know what your missing with this book. Can’t wait to tell you about it.
Enjoy my review.
And there’s a giveaway for a chance to win your own copy. So don’t forget to enter!
Dream
Clarify And Create What You Want
by Marcia Wieder
Adult nonfiction / Selfhelp / Personal Development / Dreams
My Review
My mother always tells me not to be afraid to dream, and not to be afraid to go after that dream.
You need to reach for that dream. Nobody said it would be easy. It takes work, perseverance.
My biggest problem has always been where to begin.
I’ve listened to many motivational tapes, been to some conventions, and never got much from them. Right from the introduction, I knew I’d found something different. As I continued reading, I had a lot of “I see” moments, and “Now I get it” thoughts. That’s why I’m so excited to share Dream with you.
Marcia has over forty years of experience on her subject and her book has everything in it to find your dream and obtain it in easy to follow suggestions.
My biggest problem was how to figure out what my dream was. Next, was how to get started. Then, how to go about obtaining it.
The author has a simple formula:
Clarify your dreams.
Believe in your dreams.
Act on your dreams.
I know. You’re thinking, simple? Maybe not so simple. But not as hard as you think. This book is a wonderful guide to help you get what you want.
I’m a big list freak. I make lists for everything. Have stock in Post-It’s. And those sticky little reminders are all over the place. I didn’t just read this book. I devoured it. Read it several times. It came to me all shiny and pretty. Now it’s worn. I’ve used it like a study book and it has different colored post-it strips all over in it.
At this point in my life, I’ve been at a stand still. Not sure which way to go, but knowing something needed to change. Now, I feel I have some tools to find my path and get started. The future looks brighter than ever, and I intend to grab it and live it.
Never dull, and often exciting, Dream will get your motor running.
5 Stars
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Synopsis
Book Description for DREAM: Clarify and Create What You Want:
Do you dare to dream? If so, you are a results-oriented person. Dream is designed to help you both transform your own life and contribute to making the world a better place. Dreaming is something you do—or should do.
You were created to create, and your ability to dream is paramount and fundamental when it comes to living a dream-come-true life. Dream will help you design a life that is the highest expression of your purpose by creating dreams in every area that matters to you, both personally and professionally.
This book will help you take real steps toward creating and achieving the dreams that matter to you most. It will help you to uncover, or recover, your purpose so that you can live with purpose—and there’s nothing that will bring you greater fulfillment.
Reading this book will help you to fully understand:
• Who you really are
• How you want your life to be
• How to develop dreams that inspire you
• How to look at your life with a fresh perspective
• How to remove fear, doubt, or other obstacles
• How to implement shortcuts and the techniques you will learn
Dream will teach you exactly how to do these and so much more.
Dream University’s CEO, Marcia Wieder is a long established thought leader on visionary thinking. As Founder of The Meaning Institute, she teaches people to create and live fulfilling lives. She’s been a columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle, writes for Huffington Post and is the author of 14 books. She appeared often on Oprah and was featured in her own PBS-TV show called Making Your Dreams Come True.
She has taught at Stanford’s Business School and as president of the National Association of Women Business Owners, she assisted 3 U.S. presidents. She is a member of the Transformational Leadership Council and on the advisory board for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Head on over and leave a link to your Sunday Post and hop around to visits others.
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Some chit chat.
Hello everyone and Happy Sunday!
I wanted to apologize for not visiting many posts last week. The flu kept my head all wiggy and I just couldn’t find the energy. All better now and thanks to everyone for the lovely well wishing!
I didn’t get many reviews posted this week and, luckily, I had some posts already scheduled or it would’ve been mighty quiet on fuonlyknew the past several days. So glad I’m back to myself so quickly and ready to jump back into things.
What I did find time for was a lot of free books to share today. Many of them are new authors for me and I’m excited to try a few myself.
Got lots of books to share, so let’s get to it!
I’ll be hopping over to check out your Sunday posts so be sure to leave me your link!
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New books on my shelf. Some I won, some are for review, and some I just had to have.
Print books.
New eBooks
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And here are some freebies for ya!
Click on the covers to get yours and remember to make sure they’re still free before you click that buy button.
I hope ya’ll realize I don’t grab all of the free books I show on my posts! LOL
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Books I reviewed this week. Click on the covers for my reviews.
This year has started off with a bang. My resolution was to take in less review requests so I could start whittling down those books on my TBR. Well, that started great and then a whole bunch of new books caight my eye and I had to read them. LOL You know how that is, don’t ya?
So, I’ve been reading like crazy, but not feeling quite as much pressure to get reviews done on a deadline. That makes my reading even more enjoyable too.
And, I’ve either been incredibly lucky or my book radar is dead on because the majority of books I’ve read this year have been 4 and 5 Star reads.
If you click on the banners, it’ll take you to my challenge page and you’ll find links for my reviews.
Let me show you!
My 2016 Quarterly Reading Challenge Updates
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Books so far – 5
I take my time choosing which books to add to this challenge as I read so many throughout the year.
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Books so far – 18
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Books so far – 7
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My Goodreads Reading Challenge
I set my goal at reading and reviewing 125 books. I’ve completed 45 so far and am at 36%.
This is always fun to do. So many books already. Too many to post here.
I didn’t want to feel pressured so I didn’t sign up for a challenge. Just using this to keep track.
So far I’ve read 21 from my TBR.
Not even a dent in that sky high pile. LOL But, working on it. And I’m going to wait to showcase the books after I complete the challenge. Many also go with some of my other challenges too.
I’m sure many of you will recognize author Michael Hebler from my review posts of his Chupacabra series.
This year he’s written a new novella in a whole other genre and I’m thrilled to share lots of news about it.
Check out The Ghost Of Christmas Past.
Enjoy all of the exciting news about Michael’s new release.
Watch his Q&A.
And learn how you can get an early copy.
Release date currently scheduled for September 27th, 2016.
And read to the end for some more exciting news!
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The Ghost Of Christmas Past
A Novella
by Michael Hebler
My Review
The title probably has you thinking this a retelling. Wait, though. It may start that way, but very quickly the author steers you in another direction. The focus shifts from the person being visited by the Ghost of Christmas Past to the ghost itself.
In order to save lost souls, the ghost needs its light to guide them. When the light is lost, the ghost must now go on a journey of its own. Go into the past and discover who it once was and regain its light to save Christmas.
In many places written in prose similar to Charles Dickens, it reads like a classic. As the characters are introduced, past and present, their lives deepen the story, and it tempted to skip ahead to see their stories conclusions. I resisted though.
For me to enjoy a story, I require strong, genuine characters who’s welfare means something to me. They need to have flaws, and I don’t have to like all of them or approve of what they do. But, they need to be believable and the author needs to keep them true to their personalities.
Michael’s characters could walk off the pages. I tried to picture them in my head from his descriptions and they came to life. Once that happened, I couldn’t put the book down.
I’ve read Michael’s Chupacabra thrillers and very much enjoyed them so I was curious about reading a story in a different genre.
Strong writing and atmospheric detail made this a fulfilling read and I enjoyed the direction the author chose with his tale.
The Ghost Of Christmas Past gets my highest recommendation for all readers.
5 Stars
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Synopsis
Based on Charles Dickens’ character of the same name, the first of three spirits from A Christmas Carol is the center of its own story when taken on a spiritual journey to find meaning for its existence.
The Ghost of Christmas Past has had its fire extinguished. Lost souls cannot find their way to righteousness without the Spirit’s luminescence to guide them through their shadowed memories. To rekindle its flame, the Ghost of Christmas Past must journey back to a life long forgotten. Guided by the Christmas Angel, the Spirit braves witness to how it lived as a boy in life, and learns what will become of Christmas should it fail.
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Intended Audience
The Ghost of Christmas Past is unique. The novella has appeal to readers of all ages, nationalities, and gender. Thanks to Mr. Charles Dickens, the main character name, Ghost of Christmas Past, is already as recognizable as Mickey Mouse, and the general population has shown remarkable interest in learning the backstories of supporting characters from popular works of fiction. The most notable example would be the novel Wicked by Gregory Maguire, the backstory of the witches from Oz. The Ghost of Christmas Past will appeal to fans of drama, mystery, fantasy, Literary Fiction, the supernatural, and Christianity.
Like A Christmas Carol, The Ghost of Christmas Past is not heavily religious but a story based around a Christian holiday. In 2014, more than 52 million religious books sold in the U.S., representing an increase of over 10.5% from the previous year. (Nielsen.com: Focusing On Our Strengths: Insights into the Christian Book Market)
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Check out this exciting news from Michael.
Never heard of Publishizer? Well, until a month ago, neither had I.
It was then that I was personally contacted by the company’s team mentor. He had seen that my novel, Night of the Chupacabra, had won an award and asked if I would be releasing another book any time soon.
“As a matter of fact, Yes,” I replied.
The mentor, Lee, then explained what Publishizer was about, how long the site had been live, and how it differed from other crowdfunding sites. Now before I continue, please note that I have no financial obligation or monetary interest in Publishizer beyond what I hope to achieve with my proposal for The Ghost of Christmas Past.
Essentially, Publishizer is a lot like Kickstarter or Go Fund Me, but for books only. They do not have to be newly released titles, but unpublished books are preferred. Publishizer went live about one year ago, and categorizes its proposals from non-fiction to a select number of genres. The simple formula Publishizer uses should be very familiar to anyone who has visited a top crowdfunding site: you donate money to help propel a project to success, and for your donation, you receive exclusive rewards that vary by the amount you donate (and trust me, I have some offerings that are very exclusive).
Upon learning of Publishizer, there were two distinctions about the service that had me sold. As any of my fellow authors can attest, when a book is pre-ordered, the feeling is akin to winning the lottery. Not only is someone interested in your story enough to purchase an advance copy, but they trust you as an author, which is priceless. Any donation made on Publishizer typically includes the reward of a pre-order (however, this is up to the author, though a popular choice). The second big perk Publishizer offers it’s authors comes at the end of your campaign if you achieve your set pre-order goal. Publishizer will blast your achievement to multiple publishers, demonstrating the amount of interest your title has accumulated. And if you reach at least 500 pre-orders, you’ll be blasted to the Big 5. I took it upon myself to investigate this aspect before joining and was surprised by how many titles were in a bidding war between at least two publishers.
For those solely interested in staying independent from publishing companies, you may not think the blast to publishing houses isn’t important. But how awesome would it be to have that kind of attention for your work? That’s about where I stand. I will never say “never” to a contract, but my previous works have done impressively well (thanks to honest reviewers and book bloggers like our dear friend, Laura) and I wouldn’t mind continuing on as an indie author/publisher.
So, please, if I stirred your curiosity about Publishizer, put your mind at rest by visiting their site. And while you’re there, please help participate in making history by supporting The Ghost of Christmas Past between March 29 and April 30, 2016. At the very least, you’ll receive a copy at the retailer rate of $5 for eBook and have it one month early.
For anyone who subscribes to my newsletter at http://www.michaelhebler.com/ , they will receive a free PDF copy of Night of the Chupacabra (Book I).
Simply visit the page. In about 10 seconds, a pop up to subscribe appears. Then subscribe with your email, which will then take you to the download page. Simple as that.
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And some more news!
Michael has a new story releasing soon!
Let me show you!
What Adam Wants
Synopsis
Losing a child at birth is difficult, but not as difficult as when that child refuses to leave.
Days after losing her child while giving birth, Rachel, and her estranged husband, David, are haunted by the incessant cries of a baby. It is their baby, Adam, and he wants something from Rachel… something deadly.
Amazon
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Author Michael Hebler
Prior to becoming an award-winning author of his dark fiction Chupacabra Series, Michael was a full-time international film publicist who had worked on multiple titles for Walt Disney, Pixar, Lionsgate, Lakeshore Entertainment, Warner Bros., Summit Entertainment, and the 2013 Academy Award-winning Best Foreign Language Film, “La grande bellezza” (The Great Beauty).
Born in the early 1970’s in Los Angeles County to a salesman and homemaker, Michael dreamed of following his passions for entertainment and storytelling by acting. It was while studying theatre arts at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, California, did he realize his penchant for stories were better suited on the page rather than the stage. But creating tales with suspense, laughter, and heart is not Michael’s only love. Hebler also enjoys volunteering in his local community, as well as aid in the capture/spay/neuter/release feral program.
To date, Michael’s publications include NIGHT OF THE CHUPACABRA, CURSE OF THE CHUPACABRA, and LEGEND OF THE CHUPACABRA (Books I, II, & III of the six-part Chupacabra Series) as well as his first publication, THE NIGHT AFTER CHRISTMAS, a holiday picture book for believers of any age. Michael’s fourth book in the Chupacabra Series, DAWN OF THE CHUPACABRA will be available in print and for ebook on October 13, 2015.
This isa Tag Team Event hosted by myself and Sherry.
Read on to learn how you can win some books!
After reading my review, head on over to Sherry’s blog at fundinmental for more and check out her review. Two chances to win!
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I’m With You
by Taylor Dean
My Review
The author reveals at the beginning that this book deals with the sensitive issues of baby loss grief. I’m very sensitive on this topic so it took me some time to read it.
I’ve enjoyed all of Taylor’s books, and I knew she’d take me down a hard path, sometimes dark, sometimes light.
Taylor Dean writes from her heart. You will feel all of the emotions; sadness, loss, hope, love. It’s always smart to have some tissues handy.
That being said, I loved this book. As I mentioned, it’s about love. Love for a tiny being yet to enter the world. Love for and from family and friends.
A couple are elated when they find they’ll soon have a baby to share their lives.
It’s about understanding. Understanding the all consuming grief over the loss of a child.
They are told the baby will not survive. It tests and breaks their bond.
It’s about consoling. How do you console someone who’s gone through such a life altering tragedy. What do you say. I’ve often struggled over what words to use when trying to comfort someone. If I’m very close to them, I often am just there. There when they need a shoulder to cry on. There just to be a comforting presence so they don’t feel alone.
A woman is lost in grief. Drowning in it.
It’s also about love. Love for a child. The most powerful feeling I’ve ever felt, for sure.
She’ll never forget her child. Even if she never gets to see him grow up. Share his life.
With the grief, comes the rage. Rage at others who couldn’t possibly understand. Jealousy of others who have what you lost.
What do you say to someone who’s suffered such a loss? How long before they should stop grieving?
So many stages of grief. But there’s another stage too. A light that begins to flicker, to grow stronger, brighter. That’s hope.
Life does go on, even when you don’t want it too. Someday, you will breathe again. Smile again.
I don’t want you to think that’s all this book focuses on. There’s a love story here. A journey to finding oneself.
While the author’s story is written from true events in her family’s life, the character’s and much of the story are fictional. I was torn between what I thought should happen and what I wanted to happen.
The characters are genuine. They hurt. They rejoice. You’ll want to gather them close. Grieve with them. Laugh with them. Celebrate life with them.
A story that tears at your heart but fills it too. I hope you read it.
5 Stars
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Synopsis
Can three little words irrevocably change your life?
When the doctors inform Chloe Brennan that her pregnancy is “incompatible with life,” her subsequent choices will change her path forever.
She becomes one of the quiet, unsung heroes of this world, incredibly strong, yet somehow wrongly looked upon as damaged.
Three people will pierce Chloe’s existence: her husband, a stranger, and a precious baby.
One will say goodbye, one will say hello, and one will say both at the same time.
I’m With You is a novel about selfless love and the sacredness of life.
Please note: While this book is a romance novel, it also deals with the sensitive issue of baby loss grief.
The emotions are real, and sometimes dark.
If you are sensitive to this issue, this may not be the book for you.
Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up.
To find out what Taylor Dean is up to, follow the links below:
Head on over and leave a link to your Sunday Post and hop around to visits others.
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Some chit chat.
Hello everyone and Happy Easter!
Not much happening here. Just chilling, watching movies and reading some good books. My son and I will probably have pizza delivered and stay right here at home. Yucky weather, anyway. Lots and lots of rain.
Wouldn’t you know it. With spring here, I thought the flu bug missed me. Nope, here I am, all yucky feeling. Hot one minute, cold the next. Muscles feel like they’ll break if I use them. LOL Luckily, it doesn’t appear to be too bad, and I’m hopeful it will go away quickly. I find staying busy keeps my mind off it, so, after spending a good portion of Saturday in bed, I’ve been reading and writing reviews for the next month or so. I also plan on going to work Monday no matter how I feel. It seems to help me not think about how I feel and, working pretty much alone, I don’t risk giving it to others.
Speaking of that. I don’t know anyone who is sick, so where did I get this bug? One guess. The grocery store. You pick up an item, someone has already handled it, and voila! You got a gift. LOL
Got lots of books to share, so let’s get to it!
I’ll be hopping over to check out your Sunday posts so be sure to leave me your link!
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New books on my shelf. Some I won, some are for review, and some I just had to have.
Print books.
New eBooks
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And here are some freebies for ya!
Click on the covers to get yours and remember to make sure they’re still free before you click that buy button.
I hope ya’ll realize I don’t grab all of the free books I show on my posts! LOL
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Books I reviewed this week. Click on the covers for my reviews.
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Books I’ll be reviewing next week.
And a new one by Michael Hebler that I’ll be revealing on Thursday.
Welcome to my Saturday Screams where I share reviews of all things scary.
For today I have another Ellie Jordan: Ghost Trapper book to share with you. I adore this series. So fun and so scary.
But before I get to that, I have something exciting to share with you! The first book in this series is free right now on Amazon. Click on the cover below to grab your copy and get started on this series now!
And now, without further adieu….
Terminal
Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper #4
by J.L. Bryan
My Review
All aboard! This series takes a trip to the past. To the wild west, train robberies, and murder. What begins as a banshee threatening a family quickly becomes a show down between Ellie and her team and gun slinging ghosts.
It’s bad enough to trap ghosts in one location. Imagine a whole ghost town, and a haunted train.
I’m still loving this series and it’s characters.
The hauntings get stranger and scarier.
The romance is there. Not too much in this book as there are too many things going on for any of them to be indulging much in affairs of the heart.
And a big change might be coming soon. Ellie’s boss, the owner of the ghost trapping agency, has been acting morose, withdrawn. He’s mentioned maybe selling the agency and retiring. What will Ellie do then? She can’t see herself working for some phony ghost busting show, or bilking customers for large amounts of money. Can she keep doing this without him? Is she ready?
This installment in the series is more complex, tighter. There’s a lot of history leeching into it. There’s always some of that as the things being investigated are dead. You have to go back to the beginning of their stories to solve the current hauntings. But this was double fun. I love the old west and couldn’t be happier with how this investigation went down.
Another excellent book in the series. Still loving it.
5 Stars
~~~~~
Synopsis
Ellie Jordan and her apprentice Stacey investigate a house in an elaborate planned community that was only half-built before it went bankrupt, leaving an instant ghost town with only a few residents. The entity haunting this house is a banshee that feeds on sadness and misery.
Unfortunately for Ellie, this is no simple haunting, but just one symptom of the cursed land on which the suburban community was built. The old railroad line running through the nearby woods might just be a conduit for lost souls, including dark spirits with ill intentions toward the living. Ellie soon finds herself facing one of the most complex and difficult hauntings she’s seen in her career.
And nest week I’ll be sharing my thoughts on the fifth book in this series
House Of Whispers
Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper #5
By J.L. Bryan
Synopsis
The luxurious Lathrop Grand Hotel is a Savannah institution that has entertained guests for more than a century and a half, offering some of the finest accommodations in the city. Famously haunted, the hotel draws tourists from around the world eager to encounter its numerous ghosts. The hotel is also known for being honeycombed with hidden doors and secret passages, enabling staff to appear and disappear quickly as they attend to the hotel’s guests.
Now some of the spirits in the Lathrop Grand have turned violent, even murderous. Ellie and Stacey must determine which ghost has become dangerous and remove it from the hotel before it can claim any more lives. They soon learn the hotel has secrets even darker than the notorious string of nineteenth-century murders that made it famous, and the powerful entities inhabiting it don’t intend to leave without a fight.
set in Savannah and the 
on Mackinac Island.
, which features psychics, animal communication, quirky characters and murders.
