Friday, May 29, 2015

Reading this week

Finished 
Stranded by Debby Gusti
Rapture in Death by JD Robb
Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen
Hawk by Ronie Kendig
A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade

Currently reading
Grimm’s Complete Fairy Tales
The Princess Spy by Melanie Dickerson
Kinsale Kisses by Elizabeth Maddrey
Devon’s Choice by Catherine Bennett
A Wee Murder in My Shop by Fran Stewart
Lionheart by A.C. Gaughen
By Book or by crook by Eva Gates
The Storyspinner by Becky Wallace
A Ghostly Undertaking by Tonya Kappes

Non-fiction reading

Getting ready to read
Dauntless by Dina L Sleiman
The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest by Melanie Dickerson
Protected by the Warrior by Barbara Phinney
An Early Wake by Sheila Connolly
Daughter of the Regiment by Stephiane Grace Whitson
Conspiracy of Blood and Smoke by Anna Blankman
Five Days in Skye by Carla Laurenco
Lois Lane:Fallout by Gwenda Bond
Deception’s Pawn by Esther Friesner
Protected by the Warrior by Barbara Phinney


Classic
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson



Reviewing
To Win her Favor by Tamera Alexander
An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund


Devotional reading
Girl Talk God Talk by Sally Miller

Did not Finish
For Whom the Bluebell Tolls by Beverly Allen
Fierce Convictions by Karen Prior Swallow




Reviews Posted this week 

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Another year older

Today I am another year older, and hopefully another wiser. While I am still learning to walk with the Lord I am closer to Him now than I was this time last year. I finally content in where I am in life, God has me where he wants me for this stage of me in this season of my life. Not only can I trust God’s plan I can trust God’s promises. Am I where I thought would be at 28 no, but I am where God wants me to be for this season in my life. For now that is enough for now. To the point that turning thirty in two years doesn’t even phase me like I thought it would. Life is an adventure and I can't wait to see what the next chapter brings.

Today also marks ten years since I graduated high school. Time does fly. I wonder what the next ten years will bring.

Monday, May 25, 2015

Memorial Day

Today is Memorial Day and to most people especially in my generation and younger people see it as a three day weekend and the unofficial start to summer. But for me and many others it is to remember why we are a free nation. The man and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. To give their lives so that others might live and be free.  Which again reminds me of a quote I don’t know who said it but it does ring true. Only two people ever chose to die for you, Jesus and the American Service member. One died to save your Soul and to give you eternal life. The American Service member died to protect your freedom.

But Memorial Day means more, because it’s not only the military service member be it Solider, Sailor, Airman or Marine who made the ultimate sacrifice it is their families as well. Not only are they Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, or Marines they are husbands, wives, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers. The ones they leave behind also give the ultimate sacrifice of the loss of their loved ones.

Of the family left behind the one that hits me the hardest is the children left behind. To me behind the service member who makes the ultimate sacrifice it is the child who makes the hardest, and most heartbreaking sacrifice because they will continue to go through life without their parents. As a military child myself these kids have my deepest respect because to me they have more strength and courage respect and honor for their country than most.


So this Memorial Day remember those who died fighting for their country but also remember their families as well. Honor the fallen and pray for the living.  

Friday, May 22, 2015

Reading this week

Finished
Murder Ties the Knot by Christy Fifield
Her Valentine Sheriff by Deb Kastner
The Agent’s Secret Past by Debby Giusti

Currently reading
Grimm’s Complete Fairy Tales
The Princess Spy by Melanie Dickerson
Kinsale Kisses by Elizabeth Maddrey
Devon’s Choice by Catherine Bennett
A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade
Rapture in Death by JD Robb
Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen
A Wee Murder in My Shop by Fran Stewart
For Whom the Bluebell Tolls by Beverly Allen
Stranded by Debby Gusti

Non-fiction reading
Fierce Convictions by Karen Prior Swallow

Getting ready to read
Dauntless by Dina L Sleiman
The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest by Melanie Dickerson
Protected by the Warrior by Barbara Phinney
An Early Wake by Sheila Connolly
Lionheart by A.C. Gaughen
By Book or by crook by Eva Gates
The Storyspinner by Becky Wallace
Daughter of the Regiment by Stephiane Grace Whitson
Conspiracy of Blood and Smoke by Anna Blankman
Hawk by Ronie Kendig
Five Days in Skye by Carla Laurenco


Classic
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson



Reviewing
To Win her Favor by Tamera Alexander
An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund


Devotional reading
Girl Talk God Talk by Sally Miller



Reviews Posted this week 

Saturday, May 16, 2015

Reading this week

Finished
Real Murders by Charlaine Harris
Stolen Memories by Liz Johnson
Princess of the Silver Woods by Jessica Day George
Akarnae: The Medoran Chronicles Begin by Lynette Noni
Free From Bondage God’s Way by Kay Arthur
Pioneer Girl by Laura Ingalls Wilder edited by Pamela Smith Hill
Undercover Marriage by Terri Reed
Lady Thief by A.C. Gaughen
Making Marion By Beth Moran
A Bone to Pick by Charlaine Harris

Currently reading
Grimm’s Complete Fairy Tales
The Princess Spy by Melanie Dickerson
Kinsale Kisses by Elizabeth Maddrey
Devon’s Choice by Catherine Bennett
A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade
Rapture in Death by JD Robb
Murder Ties the Knot by Christy Fifield
Her Valentine Sheriff by Deb Kastner
The Agent’s Secret Past by Debby Giusti
Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen             
Non-fiction reading
Fierce Convictions by Karen Prior Swallow

Getting ready to read
Dauntless by Dina L Sleiman
The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest by Melanie Dickerson
Protected by the Warrior by Barbara Phinney
An Early Wake by Sheila Connolly

Classic
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson



Reviewing
To Win her Favor by Tamera Alexander
An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund
Devotional reading


Reviews Posted this week 

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Cover Revel of Diamonds are Forever

I discovered Michelle Madow's writing with her Remembrance series, and with The Secret Diamond sisters I am hooked.  Not to mention I can't wait to find out how the series ends. 
Below is the Cover revel for Diamonds are forever, as well as information about the book. As well as the other two books in the series. As well as author bio.






What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas … but that doesn’t matter when you live there. Sisterhood, first crushes and scandalous secrets explode in book three of Michelle Madow’s The Secret Diamond Sisters.

Title: Diamonds are Forever
Author: Michelle Madow
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary Romance
Release Date: October 27, 2015
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Series: The Secret Diamond Sisters #3
Format: Print
ISBN: 978-0-37321-152-4

Synopsis:

It's cold outside, but the drama is hot!

The Diamond sisters jet to the mountains for spring break, and Savannah's flirt-mance with international pop star Perry Myles continues as her pursuit of stardom succeeds. But is it "meant to be" with Perry, or has the right guy been in front of her eyes this entire time? Meanwhile, Courtney takes the next step with her secret boyfriend—and future stepbrother—Brett…and with Adrian and Rebecca's wedding approaching, they feel more pressure than ever to reveal their relationship. Peyton might be figuring out a direction for her future, but she feels responsible for her bodyguard Jackson being fired, and wonders if the best way to find solace for her guilt is in the arms of someone else. But the biggest bombshell will change everything once again, because Madison's ready to tell the Diamond sisters the truth about the huge secret she's uncovered. And with Oliver, the boy who betrayed her but who could be the love of her life, in the hospital fighting for his own life, she might need the Diamonds more than ever.

Pre-order at: Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Book Depository  |  Books A Million  |  Goodreads

Other Books in the Secret Diamond Sisters Series:
 
Title: The Secret Diamond Sisters
Author: Michelle Madow
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary Romance
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Series: The Secret Diamond Sisters #1
Format: Print
ISBN: 978-0-37321-109-8

Synopsis:

Three sisters. One billionaire father. What could go wrong?

Savannah. Courtney. Peyton.

The three sisters grew up not knowing their father and not quite catching a break. But it looks like their luck is about to change when they find out the secret identity of their long-lost dad—a billionaire Las Vegas hotel owner who wants them to come live in a gorgeous penthouse hotel suite. Suddenly the Strip's most exclusive clubs are all-access, and with an unlimited credit card each, it should be easier than ever to fit right in. But in a town full of secrets and illusion, fitting in is nothing compared to finding out the truth about their past.



Title: Diamonds in the Rough
Author: Michelle Madow
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary Romance
Release Date: October 28, 2014
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Series: The Secret Diamond Sisters #2
Format: Print
ISBN: 978-0-37321-136-4

Synopsis:

All-access doesn't mean no problems.

The three Diamond sisters survived the summer in style after coming to live with their long-lost billionaire father. But making a place for themselves at their exclusive new Las Vegas private school is throwing them any number of gold-plated curves. Savannah's YouTube stardom turns into a Sweet Sixteen reality show extravaganza—with complimentary enemies on the side. Dangerous flirtations don't keep Peyton from a gamble that will risk far more than she planned to bet. And when Courtney and the sisters' archenemy, Madison, uncover two explosive secrets, it will rock even this town of glittering illusion—and turn their lives upside down all over again.

Sisterhood, first crushes, and scandalous secrets explode in book two of Michelle Madow's riveting series, The Secret Diamond Sisters.



Praise for The Secret Diamond Sisters:

“Sexy and electrifying ... Gossip Girl meets The Princess Diaries in a city that never sleeps.” -Booklist

“This quick and entertaining read is filled with glitz and glamour ... get ready for one crazy and fabulous ride.” -RT Book Reviews

“I opened The Secret Diamond Sisters and was transported to Vegas … there was never a dull moment! It’s the helpless romantic's dream.” -LitPick Five Star Book Review Award

“Highly addictive! Hold on tight, because The Secret Diamond Sisters throws you head first into the Vegas fast lane. Three every day teens navigate the slippery slope of wealth, popularity, and too much freedom, along with family drama, cat fights, and more gorgeous guys than should be legal. A fun ride not to be missed!” – Rachel Harris, NYT Bestselling Author

“Michelle Madow has followed in the platinum heel-steps of Cecily Von Ziegesar (Gossip Girl), Sara Shepard (Pretty Little Liars) and Ally Carter (Heist Society) in what seems like the first season of the Diamond girls’ romantic, shocking and lavish lives.” —Nathan Siegel, Goodreads Reviewer

“Boasting juicier secrets, more extravagant luxury, and higher stakes consequences, Michelle Madow has shown that in her world of decadently sinful Las Vegas nothing is as it seems, and all bets are off.” -Glass of Wine Reviews

Author Bio: 


Michelle Madow wrote her first novel, Remembrance, in her junior year of college. Remembrance is the first book in The Transcend Time Saga, a three part series about reincarnation and true love that Michelle successfully self-published. The series was inspired by Taylor Swift's "Love Story" music video. Michelle's latest YA series, The Secret Diamond Sisters, about three sisters who discover they are the secret heirs to a Las Vegas billionaire casino owner, was published in March 2014 by Harlequin Teen. The second book in the series, Diamonds in the Rough, released in November 2014, and the third book, Diamonds are Forever, will be coming out in November 2015. Michelle is active on social media networks and has toured across America to promote her books and encourage high school students to embrace reading and writing.
Michelle lives in Boca Raton, Florida, where she is writing more novels for young adults. She loves reading, spending time with family and friends, traveling the world, shopping, Disney fairy tales, Broadway musicals, and loves talking with fans on Facebook (/MichelleMadow), Twitter (@MichelleMadow), and Instagram (@MichelleMadow).

To chat with Michelle and other fans about her books, join Michelle Madow's Street Team on Facebook!

Connect with Michelle:  Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram  |  Goodreads

Monday, May 4, 2015

April Wrap Up

April Wrap up

In April I read 17 books and I pre ordered three books that will be shipped in May. The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest, Lion Heart, and A love like ours. I also bought Dauntless. I made no progress on any of my reading challenges. I was in a bit a reading slump in April. I hope to get out of in May. 

Friday, May 1, 2015

Reading this week

Finished
Arsenic and Old Books by Miranda James
The Rancher Takes a Bride

Currently reading
Grimm’s Complete Fairy Tales
The Princess Spy by Melanie Dickerson
Lady Thief by A.C. Gaughen
Making Marion By Beth Moran
Mission to Murder by Lynn Cahoon
Rapture in Death by JD Robb
Miles from Nowwhere by Amy Clipston
Princess of the Silver Woods by Jessica Day George
Sketch me if You Can by Sharon Pape

Non-fiction reading
Fierce Convictions by Karen Prior Swallow

Getting ready to read
Pirates and Prejudice by Kara Louise
Hazardous Homecoming by Dana Mentink
The Falcon and Sparrow by Marylu Tyndall
Kinsale Kisses by Elizabeth Maddrey
Mafia Girl by Deborah Blumenthal
Grace’s Pictures by Cindy Thomson
Her Cowboy Hero by Carolyne Aarsen
 Devon’s Choice by Catherine Bennett
Protected by the Warrior by Barbara Phinney
Wicked Weaves by Joyce Lavene
An Early Wake by Sheila Connolly
Dauntless by Dina L Sleiman
The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest by Melanie Dickerson
A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade
Classic
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson



Reviewing
Akarnae: The Medoran Chronicles Begin by Lynette Noni
To Win her Favor by Tamera Alexander
An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund
Devotional reading
Free From Bondage God’s Way by Kay Arthur

Reviews Posted this week


I'll be back on Saturday for my April wrap up.