PSCPets Joint Support for Dogs Review

We have a fairly young, active dog, and I am so pleased that I was asked to review this product from PSCP pets.  They asked for my honest opinion, and that is what I will provide in this post.

PSPC Pets provides very tasty and functional supplements for dogs, and today I wish to tell you about their joint supplement for dogs.  This unique product contains some wonderful ingredients to keep your best friend's joints in top condition.  If you take a look at the ingredients, you will find glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, manganese, and Vitamins E.  You probably know how these benefit us as humans, but they work well for dog's bones and joints, too.

The two most important ingredients are:

• Glucosamine--protects joints from arthritis damage and provides a cushion for the joints
• Chondroitin--helps increase the effectiveness of glucosamine
• Manganese--notable for its detoxification properties
• Vitamin E--antioxidant and immune system aid

This is the first of several products I will be reviewing from this company, but these were the original ones.  The "treats" were little discs, and when I opened the container, the smell was not to my liking, but my dog loved it!  Piper (that's her name) got herself into a routine that caused her to remind me to give these to her every day.  She could even walk over to the drawer where I hid them, and she knew when I said  "special treats" that it was time to get these.

I will be honest.  Since Piper is young, I didn't notice much difference, but these kinds of supplements often work better when used over the course of months and years.  If we had an older dog, I think I would have seen more improvement and results.  What I do know is that Piper loved these treats, and she would happily eat them every day, if she could (and I just may go and purchase another bottle).  Sometimes pet supplements are very unappealing to the animals, and it is nice to see that Piper loved these!

I invite you to check out more about this company:  Probioticsmart.com.  You might want to sign up for their newsletter at the bottom of the page, and/or follow them on facebook for all  the latest scoop!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

BabyGanics Fine & Handy Hand & Face Wipes Review

I am so pleased to tell you about a fantastic product that I have gotten to review in exchange for my honest opinion!  I had never heard of the company BabyGanics, but when they agreed to let me review their Fine & Dandy Hand & Face Wipes, I was pretty excited, and I will share my thoughts with you.

First of all, here is some important information about the product:

Their biodegradable, SLS, bleach and paraben-free formula lets you clean all of your baby’s sticky messes with no worries.  Plus, special skin conditioners and emollients gently nourish as you clean.  With better skin hydration than the leading brands, you won’t want to leave home without them!

• NO Chlorine, Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates or Toxins
• Specially formulated with natural, plant-based ingredients
• Hypoallergenic
• Pediatrician and Dermatologist Tested
• CLeans sticky hands and faces
• Leaves baby’s skin clean, soft and fresh

Now let me be clear--we have no babies around the house.  The youngest member of our household is almost ten.  We live out in the country, and dirt is a way of life out here.  I'm not complaining--just being realistic.

These wipes arrived at the ideal time.  About a week ago, our water stopped.  We have a well system, and for some reason, the pump stopped pumping water.  We had to go two days with no running water--not a fun experience, I can tell you.  I won't go into details, but using the toilets was not a pleasant experience.  At least we had power, so I didn't spend a lot of time complaining. 

After using the bathroom, we had to either use soap with bottled water (don't try that unless your desperate--the soap foamed up big time, and I had to use nearly a half bottle) or hand sanitizer (my mom did that, and her hands were really dried out).  I remebered these fantastic little hand wipes, and I have to tell you, they did the job!  No one else seemed to want to use them, but I have to say these were perfect.  They smelled good, and they cleaned my face very well.  My hands never dried out, and they felt clean.

Don't let the name "baby" keep you from trying these wipes.  They are perfect for any age, and I think you will find many uses for them.  Each package contains 30 wipes--they are small, but they do the job.  BabyGanics’ Fine & Handy Hand and Face Wipes retail for $4.99 and can be purchased at Babies R Us, Buy Buy Baby, Amazon.com, Diapers.com and Vine.com.

Be sure to follow the company via social media to keep up with the latest news, deals, and even contests!

https://www.facebook.com/Official.BabyGanics

https://twitter.com/BabyGanics

http://www.youtube.com/user/BabyGanics

http://pinterest.com/babyganics/

I was sent a product in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

"Defiant Heart" by Marty Steere Book Review/Giveaway (Ends 5/18) WW

Read more about this book here.


Defiant Heart by Marty Steere
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Let me begin by saying that it takes a special book to make me lose all track of time, and this is one of those books.  As a book reviewer, I sometimes find myself spending too much time figuring out how much more I have to read to finish the book.  I didn't find myself doing that very often with this book.  Sometimes a chapter ended, and I barely noticed.  I was thoroughly engaged with this book at almost every turn, and I found myself thinking more than once that this was the way a historical novel should be written.

Let's get this out of the way.  There is some profanity, but until it got closer to the end, it was so minimal I barely noticed.  And the bit towards the end could have been much worse than it was because it took place in the army.  There were no sex scenes.  In fact, the main characters actually remained pure--go figure.

I learned something during the reading of this book, and I always feel that those are the best kinds of historical fiction.  I have heard of Japanese and African American prejudice during WWII.  I honestly did not know about anti-Semitism, and I was absolutely horrified!  Wasn't it bad enough that Hitler was killing the Jews?  The injustice they suffered in this country was pretty horrendous.

I loved the little bits of mystery the author inserted into the story.  I also loved the romance.  And justice was accomplished.  You can't know how much that means to me.  I have read my share of books where that did not happen! Sometimes I was not as drawn into the war descriptions, but that is a part of the author's world.

So if you like historical fiction, romance, and even a tad bit of mystery, this just might be the book for you.

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.


View all my reviews

So do you want your own copy of this book?  I promise that you do!  If you are in the U.S., you will have your choice of print or ebook.  If you live anywhere else, you will have your choice of ebook format.  Just enter the rafflecopter below by 9 P.M. Pacific time on May 18, and you are in to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream Review

I am so glad that I got the chance to review Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream in conjunction with Influenster.  They agreed to send me this product in exchange for my honest review, and that is what I am sharing with my wonderful readers.

First of all, here is some background information on this great product:

 The AVEENO® POSITIVELY RADIANT® Intensive Night Cream, formulated with ACTIVE NATURALS® Total Soy Complex and vitamin B3, helps to reduce the appearance of discoloration, uneven tone and blotchiness, revealing healthier-looking skin.

I am nearly 39 (yikes, can you believe it?), and my face honestly is in pretty good shape, all things considered.  But I want it to stay this way.  I do have some uneven tone in my skin, and my pores tend to be rather large.  My skin also tends to get pretty dry.

I have been a fan of Aveeno for several years, and this is another great product from then.  First of all, it smells divine!  Secondly, this cream is thick, vibrant, and it works!  I have been using it mostly every night for about a week, and you can see my lovely face here.

Before washing my face and using the cream

After using Aveeno

I basically know you can't tell a difference, per se.  But let me tell you that I can feel it more than see it.  The next time I go to buy a night cream, I will probably gravitate towards this product from Aveeno!

Be sure to check out Aveeno on the web for more information as well as where you can buy it.  And while you're at it, follow them on facebook and youtube, too!

I was sent a product in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash Review

My daughter is one that does not like to take a shower nor a bath.  She is nearly ten, and it is often still a struggle to get her to use shampoo and body wash.  I was very pleased to get the opportunity to review Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash.  Since she is over age six, I had her try out the appropriate one for her age, and I asked her to give me her honest opinion.  Guess what--she loved it!  It was so easy to have one product that does two things.  It smelled good, too.

Now, being the mother that I am, I decided to try it, too.  And it was better than I thought it would be.  It was gentle on my skin, and my hair was nice and clean.  I had to condition my hair afterwards, but as far as my hair getting clean, it worked.

So if you are looking for a great product for your kids to streamline the shower/bath time, take a look at Dial for kids products.  Be sure to follow them on facebook, twitter, and youtube as well.  Watch out for a giveaway coming up soon as well!

I was sent free products in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages Book Blast (Ends 5/31) WW

 

 

For more information visit:

The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages

Website * Facebook

  The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages, Fourth Edition This is a wonderful resource for any author or publisher that wants to get their book reviewed. There are hundreds of detailed listings, explaining each book reviewer's preferred submission guidelines, contact information, turnaround time, and genre preferences. The book also includes a section in the back with author's services, where an author can find an editor, cover designer, etc. And no one has paid a fee to be listed in the book, so you know that you can trust the information. The PDF is priced at just $9.99, and is DRM-FREE. A must-have for any author, agent, or publicist.  

Purchase

Ebook * Print

 

Book Blast Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card Ends 5/31/13    a Rafflecopter giveaway

Litfuse Group: "A Noble Groom" by Jody Hedlund Book Review

Michigan, 1880

Annalisa Werner’s hope for a fairy tale love is over. Her husband failed her in every way and now his death has left her with few options to save the family farm. She needs a plentiful harvest. That, and a husband to help bring it in. Someone strong, dependable. That’ll be enough. A marriage for love…that’s something she’s given up on.

So her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.

Then a man appears: Carl Richards, from their home country of Germany and a former schoolteacher–or so he says. He’s looking for work and will serve on the farm until her husband arrives.

With time running out, she accepts his help, but there’s more to this man than he’s admitting. He’s also gentle, kind, charming–unlike any man she’s ever known. But even as Carl is shining light into the darkness of her heart, she knows her true groom may arrive any day.

Purchase a copy here.

Jody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling historical fiction author. She won the 2011 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog.

Follow the entire tour.

A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have now officially discovered a new historical fiction author (new to me, that is), and I cannot recommend her highly enough!  I was enthralled with this book from the very beginning, and it just seems that I read this book so fast.  So much happened, and I connected with this story in the way I like to connect with historical fiction.  Indeed Jody Hedlund is the kind of author that truly makes me love historical fiction.  The story is well-researched, and even though liberties are taken, she can back up her story with evidence.

But let's get past all that.  Carl and Annaslisa are delightful characters that just jump off the page from the moment you are introduced to them.  I never found thee story sappy.  I had a vague idea of how the story would end, and the author added enough realism in the story to keep it true to form.  I think if a guy like Carl came into my life, I would react similarly to Annaslisa.  The strengt of bot characters comes through, and there are some delightfully funny portions to the story as well.

The best thing is that this is a Christian book, but it is never preachy.  The characters all doubt God's existence and love, but in the end, they place their simple trust in Him.  You will find nothing inappropriate, and I hope that the author writes a sequel.  She certainly left the book concluded but still open to another story.  I would highly recommend this book to those who love historical romances.  But if you don't like romance, I think you still might like this book since the romance is quite minimal (but awfully sweet!).

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

View all my reviews

"The Grace Painter" by Mark Romang Book Review

I realize the blog tour has ended (as has the giveaway), but if you would like to find out more about the book, click here.

The Grace Painter by Mark Romang
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have to admit that as I began this book, I really didn't think too much of it.  But I have discovered that is a common response for me when it comes to thrillers.  Sometimes they take a while to get going.  And it seemed that there were so many characters to keep track of that I really struggled to wrap my mind around the entire story.  I didn't feel any connection with the characters.

The first thing the author did that began to turn the tide had to do with little Gabby and her vision--I won't spoil the story.  I was deeply touched, and I suddenly wondered if I would truly enjoy this book.  And even though I struggled to keep the characters straight, I truly began to connect with the story and characters.  Halfway through the book, the action was so high that I struggled to set the book down.

The best part about this book is that there is no profanity nor sex scenes.  Notwithstanding, this was as exciting as any thriller.  There is violence, and not everything works out perfectly every time.  The gospel message and morality is strong throughout the story, but it never comes across as being preachy.  I easily give this book five stars, and I think that if you like thrillers without all the garbage that usually accompanies them, this book is for you!


I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.


View all my reviews

Litfuse Group: "Darkness Before Dawn" by Ace Collins Book Review

Will grief push Meg over the edge?

On the same night she discovers she is pregnant, twenty-eight-year-old nurse Meg Richards’s husband is killed in an auto accident caused by a drunken teen. James Thomas comes from one of the most influential families in the community. He’s a star athlete and glamour boy at the local high school. But the accident he caused will change his life—and Meg’s future—forever.

Angered by her senseless loss and facing life as a single mother, Meg blames God for what has happened and considers a decision that could change her life even further. Enraged by the brutal trial and the court’s decision, Meg starts down a frightening path of retribution. When the opportunity for revenge comes unexpectedly, will Meg follow through? Or will the remnants of her faith lead her in a different direction?

Purchase a copy here.

Bestselling author Ace Collins has written more than 60 books including novels "Swope's Ridge" and "Words of the Father", as well as the nonfiction "Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas"; and "Lassie: A Dog's Life". His books have become movies and network television specials. Ace Collins has sold more than 1.5 million books during his career and makes his home in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. AceCollins.com

Read all the reviews.

Darkness Before Dawn by Ace Collins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As I have stated many times in reviews, I am not generally a fan of contemporary fiction.  Well, this is one of those rare occasions when I can say that I could hardly put this book down, and it is contemporary fiction.  It is also Christian and includes no profanity nor bedroom scenes.  But that does not mean that everything is happy and cheery all the time.  I truly felt for Meg, and it was sad to watch her go down a road she didn't need to.  I am not being critical of her because after all, I have never in my life lost someone I love like this.

I loved the Christian message that Ace Collins wove into the very fabric of the book.  I found myself emotionally connecting with Meg more than once, and it was so glorious to see commitments to God being made.  I found myself really getting angry over the defense attorney in the courtroom.  And it really gets to me when I realize that the way things are described is not so far from the truth.

This is a book that can be enjoyed by all, and I believe teens should read it, too.  It is a good reminder that drinking and driving don't mix.

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.


View all my reviews

Litfuse Group: "The Heiress of Winterwood" by Sarah E. Ladd Book Review

Pride goes before the fall . . . but what comes after?

Darbury, England, 1814

Amelia Barrett gave her word. Keeping it could cost her everything. An heiress to an estate nestled in the English moors, defies family expectations and promises to raise her dying friend’s baby. She’ll risk everything to keep her word—even to the point of proposing to the child’s father—a sea captain she’s never met.

When the child vanishes with little more than an ominous ransom note hinting at her whereabouts, Amelia and Graham are driven to test the boundaries of their love for this little one.

Amelia’s detailed plans would normally see her through any trial, but now, desperate and shaken, she’s forced to examine her soul and face her one weakness: pride.

Graham’s strength and self-control have served him well and earned him much respect, but chasing perfection has kept him a prisoner of his own discipline. And away from the family he has sworn to love and protect.

Both must learn to have faith and relinquish control so they can embrace the future ahead of them.

Purchase a copy here.

The Heiress of Winterwood by Sarah E. Ladd

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love a book that only gets better as I continue to read it.  I was certain I would give this a four-star rating and that I knew exactly how this would end.  The more I read, the more I liked it.  And in the last few pages, the author threw a wrench into the narrative that completely threw me for a loop.  It was then that I called out and said that the author had earned her five-star rating!

This is a typical Christian historical romance in many ways.  It's like a Christian Regency romance in many ways.  However, there is no profanity nor bedrooms scenes.  The Christian message comes through in a way that does not come across as preachy.  Captain Sterling and Amelia do make for an intriguing character, and Edward is that villain who becomes more vile as the story goes on.  If you like romance with a little bit of intrigue, this book is for you.

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

View all my reviews

Sarah E. Ladd has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. "The Heiress of Winterwood" was the recipient of the 2011 Genesis Award for historical romance. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing husband, sweet daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever.

Read all the reviews.

Charisma Media: "Jade and the Tooth Fairy" by Jacinta Zecharaiah Blog Tour/Review

Title: Jade and the Tooth Fairy

Author: Jacinta Zechariah

Genre: Children’s

Published:  April 9, 2013

Book description:

A magical tale about a little girl called Jade who stays up to meet the Tooth Fairy and goes to fairyland with her. She is also in for a pleasant surprise when she finds out what happens to all the teeth the Tooth Fairy takes!

 Jade and the Tooth Fairy by Jacinta Zechariah

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am so pleased to get to review this book by a fellow blogger.  I truly loved the illustrations and the unusual story.  My daughter would have loved this story when she was little.  I don't want to give away the story, but it is one that makes the perfect bed-time story when your child has lost his/her first tooth.

I only have one minor criticism, and this is just me.  The entire book is written in poetry--that's not a problem.  I have always been fascinated when people write and entire book in poetry.  It is not as easy as one may think.  The author definitely has the rhyming scheme going, but the lines are sometimes slightly uneven.  It is perhaps that author's intent, but for me, this put a damper on my enjoyment of the book.  I know it's no big deal, but you know me--I try to be honest.

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

View all my reviews

Author  Bio

Jacinta Zechariah (nee Dias) lives in London, UK with her husband and 3 children – 2 daughters and a son. She loves travelling and being with her family.

She has a teaching degree with a Masters in Literature but now spends her time writing and marketing her book. When she is not busy with her children she is busy writing her future books and content for her blog.

She began writing at a very early age when she and her sister would make little paper books where she would write and her sister would illustrate.

She writes poetry and has had a few poems published in anthologies.

Jade and the Tooth Fairy is her debut book and has been written with her daughter Jadyn in mind.

She loves writing and would love to inspire more people to get involved in reading especially children.

Find her on

Author central:  http://www.amazon.co.uk/-/e/B00CBCU4AQ

Website: http://jacintaz3.co.uk/jade-and-the-tooth-fairy/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17789241-jade-and-the-tooth-fairy

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/JadeAndTheToothFairy?ref=hl

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jacintaz3

Buy Now links:

Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Jade-Tooth-Fairy-ebook/dp/B00CB3SVY6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1366894210&sr=8-1&keywords=jade+and+the+tooth+fairy

Amazon.co.uk

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Jade-Tooth-Fairy-ebook/dp/B00CB3SVY6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1366894315&sr=8-1&keywords=jacinta+zechariah

Smash words : https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/304565

Follow the entire tour.

"Sort It" Android App Game Review

I am always on the lookout for new apps and games that I can download and enjoy on my Android phone.  I was quite pleased to be invited to review "Sort It," and I will be sharing my honest review with you.  I was not compensated in any way, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

Here is the description from the App Store:


Are you tired of boring racings and other games with a trite motto 'kill all monsters around'? Do you want to get from the game both pleasant leisure and some benefit? If your answer is 'yes' then don’t go by because you have already found what you were seeking for!
...
'Sort it!' is an unusual quiz game. Here you’ll find great pleasure and passion in searching for the right answer to our puzzle. It combines fun, warm-up for your brains and a real test for your logic. Are you ready to show your abilities? WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF 'SORT IT!'

I happily went here and downloaded it for free.  I actually don't generally download apps that I have to pay for.  I personally think free apps are the way to go whenever you can.  I generally like games where I have to  use various strategies and keep my brain active.

Your job is to try to figure out the relationships between various images and try to match them.  I thought it would be pretty easy.  The graphics were very clear, and I like the fact that the game did not look too busy.  I would have liked for the directions to be a little clearer.  I struggled with what I was supposed to do, but I figured it out as I played it.   

My real complaint with the game is that they do not give you the solution if you can't figure out.  I know that is the point of the game is to figure it out on your own, but I enjoy having a solution in case I can't get past a level.  If I need to push past a level, I would like a safety net.  But that's just me.

If you are looking for a game that will challenge you, and you easily see relationships between things, this just might be the game for you.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Tribute Books: "The Grace Painter" by Mark Romang Book Tour/Giveaway (Ends 4/30) WW

Read my book review.
The Grace Painter Book Summary:

Sometimes the hardest person to forgive is the one reflecting back at you from inside a mirror. Matthew London can attest to this difficult truth. Ever since the former NYPD hostage negotiator changed his identity and fled New York City for the backwaters of Louisiana, regret has ruled his life.

For eight years London has lived like a hermit in a declining plantation house. Only his talent for painting Renaissance-style murals and paintings keeps the inner-demons from totally destroying him. Each day the disgraced hostage negotiator longs for a chance at redemption, never expecting it to actually happen. But then a down-on-her-luck FBI agent shows up on his doorstep one evening. It turns out Jean-Paul and Sebastian Boudreaux, two local brothers famous for lawlessness have inadvertently kidnapped a little girl.

London is quickly thrust into the starring role of a daring rescue attempt. But before he can rescue the child from the dangerous Boudreaux brothers, he first must find a way to forgive himself for a past misstep, a blunder that forever altered his once promising life. But in the Atchafalaya Basin swampland, nothing is promised. Grace cannot be purchased or earned. It can only be given.

Mark Romang's Bio: 

I was born in 1967. Avid reader, suspense novelist, faithful husband, baffled father, factory worker, reformed head-banger, failed musician, contact sports lover, MMA enthusiast, distressed KC sports fan, Lord of the Rings geek, workout fiend, dog owner, nature lover, proud American, disgruntled voter, pistachio addict, caffeine-riddled, screw-up saved by grace, sojourner. This is me in a nutshell.

Price/Format: $0.99 ebook
Pages: 303
Publisher: self-published
Release: November 26, 2012

Kindle buy link ($0.99):
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ADWZ4M4?tag=tributebooks-20

Nook buy link ($0.99):
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-grace-painter-mark-romang/1113848026?ean=2940015785463

Smashwords ($0.99):
http://www.smashwords.com/b/259249

Be sure to check out the author and book at the various sites below.

Mark Romang's Web Site:
http://www.markromangbooks.com/Mark Romang's Facebook:http://facebook.com/mark.romang.18

Mark Romang's Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6606226.Mark_Romang

The Grace Painter's Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16210809-the-grace-painter

Tribute Books Blog Tours Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tribute-Books-Blog-Tours/242431245775186

The Grace Painter's blog tour site:
http://thegracepainter.blogspot.com/

Be sure to enter the giveaway before it cloes on Tuesday night!

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Poetry Month Celebration: "Don't Frighten the Pansies" by Verna Cole Mitchell Book Review

Book Synopsis 

Poems in this collection will make you laugh and cry and reflect upon your own growing-up experiences. Most of all, you will be encouraged by reminders of God’s forever goodness and love. Verna Cole Mitchell is a poet, teacher, editor, and published author of poems and short stories. Don’t Frighten the Pansies, her first book of poetry, contains some of the poems she has written through the years. Whether you enjoy the pictures of God’s world she paints with words or her descriptions of the security and hope He offers, these poems will inspire you.

Author Bio:

Verna Cole Mitchell attended Southern Wesleyan University and graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University. She and her husband, Leon, have lived in Charlotte, North Carolina, for 47 years. They have two children, four grandchildren, and just recently, they welcomed two great grandchildren.  

Verna was a secondary English teacher for 37 years and still substitutes occasionally at a private school. She is currently an editor and a writer, whose work has appeared in a number of publications, including Teachers of Vision, Looking Back, and Lucidity Journal of Verse. She is an editor for Magnifico Publishing, and she serves as one of the writers and as an editor for the devotional section of her church’s website.

Author page on Facebook

 https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Verna-Cole-Mitchell/581335075212084

Author page on Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B009NJCL7O

Author page on Goodreads

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6570488.Verna_Cole_Mitchell

Excerpt from Poem

Your God Has Not Forsaken You

Oppressed by the problems around you?

Confused by the cares that confound you?

Concerned for what the future holds?

Afraid to watch as it unfolds?

Your God has not forsaken you.

God’s covenant will be with you.

His promises are ever true.

Compassionately He forgives.

His everlasting love He gives.

Your God has not forsaken you.

 Don't Frighten the Pansies by Verna Cole Mitchell

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Poetry is something that is very close to my heart.  I began writing poetry in elementary school, and I always enjoyed reading poets from the great poets in history.  But quality, modern poetry is something that I have struggled to find.  That is until now.

Verna Cole Mitchell is a refreshing breath of air in the world of poetry.  It is evident that she can write about any topic from English to cats to family life to the Bible.  Her language and description are so beautiful, and many of her poems affected me emotionally.  The woman even wrote a poem about Edgar Allen Poe's writings!  None of the poems appear contrived, and I couldn't help but smile throughout the book.  She does have a fantastic sense of humor.

The best thing about this book of poetry is that the author is a Christian, and she does not make apologies nor excuses for her beliefs.  Even in her lighter poems, you can see her faith in an organic way.  She never forces her faith on the reader--it's just there.  I highly recommend this book of poetry to everyone.  You are sure to find some poems that will touch you deeply.

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

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"The Lying Game" by Sara Shepard Book Review

Summary (from goodreads) I had a life anyone would kill for.

Then someone did.

The worst part of being dead is that there'snothing left to live for. No more kisses. Nomore secrets. No more gossip. It's enoughto kill a girl all over again. But I'm about toget something no one else does--an encoreperformance, thanks to Emma, the long-losttwin sister I never even got to meet.

Now Emma's desperate to know whathappened to me. And the only way to figureit out is to be me--to slip into my old lifeand piece it all together. But can she laughat inside jokes with my best friends? Convincemy boyfriend she's the girl he fell inlove with? Pretend to be a happy, carefreedaughter when she hugs my parents goodnight? And can she keep up the charade, even after she realizes my murderer iswatching her every move?

From Sara Shepard, the #1 New York Timesbestselling author of the Pretty Little Liars books, comes a riveting new series about secrets, lies, andkiller consequences.

About this data

Sara Shepard graduated from NYU and has an MFA from Brooklyn College. She currently lives in Tucson, Arizona. Sara's Pretty Little Liars novels were inspired by her upbringing in Philadelphia's Main Line.

Let the lying game begin.







The Lying Game by Sara Shepard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I had this book sitting on my shelf for a while, and I finally decided to give it a go.  And from the beginning, it was quite eerie and mesmerizing.  Usually, the literary device where dead people talk does not go over very well with me.  However, Sara Shepard is a master at this technique.  I never found it weird.  The flashbacks, the commentary, and the general story are amazingly written.  And the only problem I have is that I have to read the next book!  Don't expect full resolution, but do expect twists and turns that you never saw coming.

I normally would mark a young adult book down for profanity--there is more than what there should be in this book.  There are no bedroom scenes.  There is no blood and gore, but there is some violence described.  This book is meant for older teens and adults who can look past the profanity.  Sara Shepard's style is so unbelievable that I can look past some of the more disturbing things in the book.  I read this book at night, and I have to say it is a little creepy to read it at night.  And the bigger problem I had was putting the book down!  It was an outstanding book, and I would recommend it to those who like a good mystery.

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially copmensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

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I read this book for the year long Just for Fun Reading Challenge.  This is my book for April!  I am actually on target!

"David's Song" by A.R. Talley Book Review

Read more about the book and enter the giveaway here.


David's Song by A.R. Talley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an unbelievable romance!  I loved it from the beginning through the very end, and I know I just have to read the next book in the series!  I honestly don't know where to start except to say that while contemporary romances don't usually resonate with me, this one does.  It is an LDS fiction book, but don't let that put you off.  It is is never preachy.  There are no sex scenes, and there is only one minor "swear" word.  Morals are stressed throughout, and I honestly was not certain how the book would end.  I'm not going to hint at the ending except to say it is one wild ride.

I was enthralled with David Andrews.  Goodness, he probably is the epitome of every woman's fantasy.  I never really liked Jeremy--sorry.  And Annie, well, she is one complex woman.  I can identify with men never being attracted to her--my problem as well.  Yes, I've had three men in my life, but they all ended up being jerks.  Kind of like the bad version of David and even worse.  But that's another story.

I found myself feeling very conflicted during this book.  I am always rooting for marriages to stay together.  I don't agree with cheating, having affairs, getting divorced to marry someone else, etc.  Talley spins such an amazing story that I honestly didn't know how I wanted the story to end.  I knew wasn't supposed to ever hope that a woman would leave her husband, but I certainly struggled.  Rarely has an author made me feel "off kilter" like that. But it made the reading of the book even more intriguing.  I have to admit that I didn't do much skimming of this book, and so it took me longer than usual!  I highly recommend this romance!!

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated in any way, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.


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"Motherhood Matters" by Connie E. Sokol Book Review

Read more about this book and enter the giveaway here.


Motherhood Matters: Joyful Reminders of the Divinity, Reality, and Rewards of Motherhood by Connie E. Sokol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I find it so interesting that as of late, LDS books have struck a chord with me.  Nothing against Mormons, but I am not of the Mormon faith and will never be.  I have read Christian books for years, and many have been about women, wives, and mothers.  They often leave me with a sense of guilt and/or the feeling that I am not doing enough.  Connie Sokol is not like that at all.  She is a writer who  will validate you as a mom and remind you of why you accepted this divinely-appointed calling.  I even had spiritual insight gleaned from her book concerning Rebekah that I never would have seen without her pointing it out.  She is down-to-earth, and she will never put you on a guilt trip.  And don't worry if you're not married or if you don't have any kids.  She speaks to all women.  This woman has found true joy in motherhood, and whenever I read her books, I just feel so good!  This is an ideal Mother's Day gift, or just pick it up for yourself, ladies.  You'll be glad you did!

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.


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Litfuse Publicity Group: "Tales of the Defended Ones" by Beth Guckenberger Review

Ben and Joseph lose their mothers, but find a family looking just for them. Antonio is rescued from what seems like a hopeless situation. Caitlyn dares to trust that truth will set her free. Jorani is delivered from slavery into the arms of grace.

Follow these real-life stories as they take you on a journey to foreign places and extreme struggles. Travel through their challenges and see the hand of the great Storyweaver – our Defender God shielding and defending the defenseless in the amazing ways only he can.These are the tales of the ones left wounded and weak-ones made whole and strong . . .

Purchase a copy here.

Find out more about the Leader’s Guide DVD.

Beth Guckenberger and her husband, Todd, are the founders of Back2Back Ministries (based in Cincinnati, Ohio), which communicates a lifestyle of service by sharing the love of Christ and serving God through service to others. Back2Back Ministries connects willing workers to open hearts through international and local ministry opportunities. Their ministry is currently caring and providing for orphan children and needy people in Mexico, Nigeria, India and, most recently, Haiti.

Guckenberger travels and speaks regularly at women’s and missions conferences, as well as youth gatherings and church services. Her topics include orphan care, missions, parenting, marriage/intimacy and faith. Her storytelling style captures audiences, and she draws from her field experience as a missionary and parent for illustrations to biblical concepts.

In addition to her children’s releases in the Storyweaver series, Tales of the Defended Ones (Standard Publishing 2013), and Tales of the Not Forgotten (Standard 2012), Guckenberger has written two books for adults:Relentless Hope (Standard, 2011) and Reckless Faith(Zondervan, 2008). She has also partnered with Standard Publishing on the mission content in its 2013 VBS program God’s Backyard Bible Camp and a missions kit to be released in the fall.

The Guckenberger family lives and serves in Monterrey, Mexico, where they have hosted more than 12,000 guests on their ministry campus. Between biological, foster and adopted additions to their family, Beth and Todd are raising nine children.

Learn more about Beth Guckenberger and Back2Back Ministries at www.bethguckenberger.com, http://back2backministries.org, the Back2Back Ministries Facebook page (back2backministries) or Twitter(@bguckenberger ).

Tales of the Defended Ones by Beth Guckenberger

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was pleased to read Guckenberger's previous book "Tales of the Not Forgotten," and this book did not disappoint.  It continued with stories of orphans and children who were sold and abandoned.  But the Great Defender, God, kept them safe.  He protected them and ultimately brought them to the other side.  God does see every child and ever person who is struggling.  I love the way this book is written so that you can do it with your child or in the children's ministry at your church.  There is room for the child to respond to the story, and it is written at an age-appropriate level.  I highly recommend this book!

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.  I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

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