Book Review - An Amish Family Christmas: A Charmed Amish Life Christmas Novel by Shelley Shepard Gray

Photo Credit - Amazon

The fourth book in Shelley Shepard Gary's Charmed Amish Life series is about two unlikely people who weren't looking for love but found it anyways. Levi Kinsinger recently returned to Charm, Ohio after trying to find himself when his beloved father perished in a tragic factory fire.  Julia Kemp is a single mother who is on the run from a dangerous past. With both Levi and Julia running from their past, will they be able to learn to let go and trust each other?

A cozy read for anyone who is a fan of Amish love romance. The novel was a very quick and fun read. However, there wasn't much of a story and seemed more like a fluff novel and a bit boring towards the middle of the book. This is the final book in the Charm Amish Life series but each book can be read separately. 

**Disclosure - I recieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - Dear Mr. M by Herman Koch and Sam Garrett

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Mr. M was once an celebrated international bestselling writer but that was a few years ago. His book was about a real life disappearance of a history teacher who was having an affair with his young student.  His timid neighbor seems to stalking his wife and him while keeping track of everything they do. The story is told from alternating points of view from multiple characters with each a secret to hide. The story depicts an writer in decline, a teacher couple in love and a missing teacher  along with how their faiths are all entangled with each other.

The story was very interesting with many twists and turns. The writing style took a bit to understand but once you get into the story it is hard to put down in the beginning. However, towards the middle of the 400 page Goliath, the story was a bit boring and seemed redundant.  I couldn't wait to put this book in my "donate" pile. 

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book**

Book Review - Christian's Hope (Return to Northkill #3) by Ervin R. Stutzman

Photo Credit - Amazon

Christian Hochstetler returns home to his Amish family after spending the last seven years in captivity among Native Americans. As being captured as a child, Christian spent most of his life among his captors who taught him their ways and treated him like family. As Christian tried to settle back into his old Amish life of farming, he realizes he misses his adoptive family. He struggles to decide whether he should stay with his Amish or Native American family. Will Christian be able to join the Amish like his father wants? Will he able to give up his old Native American ways?

I have not read the other books in the series but it seems each book can be read as a standalone novel.  The historical novel is based on a true story which made it very interesting to read. However, it seemed to take Christian a very long time to decide what he wanted to do and it made the book very boring in the middle.  A decent read but I am in no rush to read the other novels in the series.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

Book Review - A Sister's Wish (The Charmed Amish Life, #3) by Shelley Shepard Gray

Photo Source - Amazon

"A Sister's Wish", is the third book in Shelley Shepard Gray's Charmed Amish Life series. The story starts off with two childhood friends who see each other before one of them runs away from home.  Amelia Kinsinger is from a tight knitted family who values strong family traditions.  Simon Hochstetler is from an abusive home and after following the wrong crowd ends up in prison. Both Simon and Amelia have loved each other for years but they are from different backgrounds. With Simon's past haunting him, will they be able to make a future together?

The book was an fun, quick, and interesting read. The novel offered an glimpse into two young adults lives and if they are able to let go of the past for the one they love. It also showed how to forgive and forget about the past while still learning from it. Although, the novel felt a bit fluffy and no major plot or twist occurring. A very cozy read if you love Amish novels.

*Disclosure - I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion*

Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer - Kitten Shimmer

Stila's liquid luminizer is touted as a lightweight skin enhancing liquid that adds luster and accentuates the skin.  It contains soft focus pigments which help reduce the appearance of fine lines along with skin imperfections. It is enriched with grape seed oil to nourish and condition the skin with the powerful antioxidant.  The formula is free of parabens, sulfates, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs, or triclosan. I found the deluxe brush to be quite annoying and ineffective to use. The pale gold shimmer goes on a bit too "whitish" for me and even with a lot of blending looks "fake" on my skin. I tried mixing a bit of it with my daily lotion and it gives me a slight shimmer sheen which looks nice,

Book Review - The Tea Planter's Wife: A Novel by Dinah Jefferies

Photo Credit - Amazon

The international bestselling historical fiction novel takes place in 1920s Ceylon. Gwen is a young Englishwoman who is smitten by Laurence, an older tea plantation owner and widower. As the two of them settle down in Ceylon, Gwen discovers Laurence is keeping deep secrets about his past including what happened to his first wife. Will Gwen find out the truth before it is is to late?

The novel is an interesting and vividly detailed read. You can't help but root for Gwen and Laurence to find their happy ever after. A great read for a rainy day but can be a bit slow at times.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book**

Book Review - The Fir Tree by Hans Christian Andersen

Photo Credit - Amazon

A tragic tale of greed and unhappiness with updated illustrations from Finnish illustrator, Sanna Annukka. The little fir tree is sad that he is short and rabbits jump over him. Unfortunately, the little fir tree grows bigger until he becomes a Christmas tree and life is not what he hopes for. A short tale of learning to enjoy the moment and appreciating what you are given in life.

The rich forest green cloth bound novel is embellished gold foil. A perfect tale for the holiday season for both children and adults.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book**

Book Review - The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen

Photo Credit - Amazon

The whimsical tale is about  two best friends who live next door to each other. One day, the boy becomes cursed and is unable to see goodness in the world. He is kidnapped by the Snow Queen who keeps him prisoner in her ice palace. The little girl goes on the journey to free her friend's cold heart. Will the little girl be able to save her friend? Will the two friends be able to reunite?

As a child, my favorite stories were "The Little Mermaid" and "The Ugly Duckling". When I saw they were releasing a beautiful illustrated copy of the book, I knew I had to get my hands on it. The book was a quick hour read but was very fun and engaging. The artwork took the story to new level.  While, some parts might not be suitable for young readers, I can see how it can be a childhood favorite.

**Disclosure -  I received a free copy of this book*

Book Review - The Storybook Knight by Helen Docherty and Thomas Docherty

Photo Credit - Amazon

Little Leo is the gentle knight who rather reads than fight.  When a dragon attacks a city, Leo's mom and dad call upon the tiny hero to help save the day. Leo sets off on his journey with his shield, sword and stack of his favorite books. Along the way, Leo encounters terrifying creatures. Will Leo be able to save the city?

A cute and lovable story with amazing illustrations. When reading this to my nephews, they couldn't wait to see what happens next and then immediately wanted me to read the entire book again! A fun read for any youngster but especially fun for those who love reading and fantasy characters.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Storybook Knight landing page: http://books.sourcebooks.com/the-storybook-knight-join/   

Download an activity kit: http://books.sourcebooks.com/the-storybook-knight/

Author Links:

Thomas Docherty: www.thomasdocherty.co.uk

Twitter: @TDIllustration

Helen Docherty: www.helendocherty.com

Twitter: @docherty_helen

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Book Review - Max at Night by Ed Vere + Giveaway!

Photo Credit - Amazon

A cute story about a little black kitten who is about to go to sleep but can't find his beloved moon to say good night.  Max has many nighttime rituals before going to bed; brushing his teeth, drinking milk and saying good night to the moon. However, tonight Max can't find his moon and goes on a journey to find the moon. Will Max be able to find the moon?

A darling book with gorgeous illustrations. A great addition to your little ones' bookshelves and it teaches about bedtime rituals. My nephews enjoyed reading along to this!

 **Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Max at Night landing page: http://books.sourcebooks.com/maxatnight/

Download the activity kit: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bx4ZhGcf82dneVdyYlBJUzdNMUk/view?pref=2&pli=1 

Author Links:

Website: http://www.edvere.com/

Twitter: @ed_vere

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ed_vere/

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Book Review - Starving Hearts (Triangular Trade Trilogy, #1) by Janine Mendenhall

Photo credit - Amazon

While attending a family social event, Annette Chetwyn was assaulted and suffers  nightmares from the attack. She was saved by a mysterious man who she is unable to find or remember who he is.  Annette's mother is determined for her daughter to find a husband even though Annette would rather marry for love.  Peter Adsley is the second heir to the family fortune and in turn would have to find his fortune elsewhere. However, he decides to join the clergy and seeks a wife to provide companionship.  Will Annette and Peter be able to find love? Will their faith in God be restored?

The book had an interesting story line and kept you guessing until the very end. The story was filled with historical themes while fusing elements of mystery, romance and intrigue.  However, towards the middle of the book I found Annette and Peter to quite annoying and tiresome. A good book if you like stories around this time period but it just wasn't for me.

**Disclosure - I received a copy of this in box in exchange for my honest opinion**

Book Review - Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow

Photo Credit - Amazon

Charlotte Davis ("Charlie") may look like an average seventeen year old but she has experienced more pain and heartache than some people twice her age has. She has lost her father and best friend while was "abandoned" by her mother who couldn't deal with the lost of her husband. Charlie learns to deal with the pain with the best way she knows how. With each cut, she tries to forget the pain and hurt but with each cut it adds a new dimension of pain and hurt. Will Charlie be able to forget the past and move on? Will Charlie be able to be happy?

The novel is a deeply heartbreaking, honest, raw and an engaging read. Once, I picked up the book I found it hard to put it down. Charlie's character is dynamic and realistic that is hard not to root for her. The novel was emotionally draining at points especially for so "many bad things" to happen to Charlie. As a reader, you feel for her; you want to take her up in your arms and tell her everything will be okay. A highly recommended book for any YA fan or anyone who has ever felt "lost" in life. 

A small side note, the novel does have graphic and sexual language. 

**Disclosure - I received an uncorrected copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - Pop Manga Coloring Book by Camilla d'Errico

Photo Credit - Amazon

 

Let me preface the review by saying, I am a huge Manga fan. I sometimes, dream of coloring in my manga books which I know is a big no-no and I can't color in the lines to save my life. When I came across this coloring book I knew I had to try it.  Manga artist Camila d'Errico created her first ever adult coloring book filled with portraits, patterns and abstract designs. The coloring book was beautifully designed and the drawings were intricately drawn. Although some of the designs looked like soft sketches. They look like they were hastily through in just to "finish up" the book along with some drawings looked repetitive.

Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion

Book Review - The Things We Knew by Catherine West

Photo Credit - Amazon

An unexpected tragedy hits a young family as their beloved mother perishes. The once close-knit family is still reeling from the incident. Broken friendships and strained relations cause the siblings to leave their childhood home and never return until their youngest sister asks them to come home because of their father's health and struggling with his finances.When the Carlisle siblings return home, secret and promises come undone along with past betrayals. Will they be able to forget the past and come together and save their home? Will Lynette be able to remember what happened the night her mother was murdered? 

A heart warming story of forgiveness, redemption, love and familial bonds. The novel was an easy going read but provided a lot of twists and turns throughout the novel. I like how the novel had a different type of romantic ending. 

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - The Invoice by Jonas Karlsson

Photo Credit - Amazon

The nameless protagonist in Jonas Karlssson's new novel receives an invoice in the mail for an outrageous 5,700,000kr. He assumes it must be a mistake since it such a high number and he never bought anything so expensive. After a month, another bill arrives with interest added in causing the invoice to become even higher. Since, he doesn't watch the public broadcasting, he didn't know that it was a new mandate that declared people would have to pay money based off their External Happiness score.  

He calls their hotline and after hours of waiting is connected to Maud who explains to him the entire process of the new mandate. The part-time video store worker starts to feel his life is empty after he goes deeper into depth. The things and experiences that used to bring him happiness no longer brings him joy. How much is happiness worth? Does being richer or living within one means make them happier? How does being happy affect your outlook in life? Is it fair that those who are happy have "more" in life"? Will the main character and Maud be able to save each other?

The novel was a very interesting read and concept. It made me think of themes of "Brave New World" and "1984", however, the ending fell a bit flat for me in the end. The short novel was a quick read but I felt some of the text made little sense because of the translation. Overall, a fun little read for a rainy day as it will leave you questioning your own sense of happiness. 

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - When Death Draws Near by Carrie Stuart Parks

Photo Source - Amazon

Gwen Marcey is down on her luck when she accepts an temporary assignment in Pikeville, KY.  The quirky forensic artist was bought in to find the serial rapist whose victims and witness vanishes. There is also a snake handling church whose members all have accidental deaths. Gwen will have to race to find if there is a connection between the two cases. While, Gwen's cancer also returns and she is questioning her own longevity. Will she be able to solve the case and receive the money she desperately needs? Who can Gwen trust? Will the cancer or the murderers get to Gwen first?

The fast paced thriller kept me to the edge of my seat. It kept me guessing and wondering who is the masterminds behind the cases were and if they are connected. I couldn't put the book down when I first started reading it but towards the middle of the book, it  kind of lost its luster to me. The book had a lot of twists and the ending was interesting but I wasn't in love with the book because some parts of the books felt unbelievable.  Definitely a good read for any Gwen Marcey fans or if you like the author.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

SkinMedica TNS Eye Repair Age Control

Photo Credit - Amazon

The creamy lotion promises to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and puffiness around the eye region. It is packed with Vitamin E and Vitamin C to brighten and enrich skin. Since, I was using a deluxe size of the product --  I didn’t notice much results. Granted, I have read that many people saw results without applying too much. It’s a bit too pricey to splurge on the full size without being certain about the benefits.

Carrie Stuart Parks’ ‘When Death Draws Near’ Undercover Artist Starter Set

Plunge into forensic artist Gwen Marcey's world, full of cold-case murders, shady politics, and a den of venomous suspects. Add Carrie Stuart Parks' new Gwen Marcey novel, When Death Draws Near, to the top of your must-read list. Gwen accepts temporary work in Pikeville, Kentucky—a small town facing big-city crime. But before she can finish her first drawing of the serial rapist who is on the loose, the latest witness vanishes. Just like all the others. Can Gwen uncover the truth—and convince anyone to believe her—before she becomes a victim herself?

Join Carrie in celebrating the release of When Death Draws Near by entering to win an Undercover Artist Starter Set.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of When Death Draws Near
• A $30 Michael's or Hobby Lobby gift card (winner's choice)
• Colored pencils
• A sharpener
• A pencil case
• An eraser
• A coloring prayer book
• A coloring notecard set
• A lap desk

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on August 22. The winner will be announced August 23 on the Litfuse blog.

Book Review - This Too Shall Pass by Milena Busquets

Photo Credit : Amazon

Blanca is forty when the person she has loved the longest has passed. Newly motherless, Blanca has a hard time coming to terms with her mother's death. She had no idea what to do anymore and how will she go on without her mother. She decides to visit her childhood home to help with the grief and thinks about the volatile relationship she had with her mother.  She is accompanied by her two sons,  her two ex-husbands, her two best friends, and her married lover. 

Still going through a whirlwind of emotions from her mother's death, she meets up with old and new friends to discover the meaning of life. She uses sex, drugs and alcohol to deal and get over her grief and understand that life goes on after death.

The book was an interesting and quick read. However, I can't say I really cared for the novel. It seem like a person who is rambling. Because the book was translated, I don't feel some parts of the text was very fluid and especially the conversations between characters was hard to understand. This was a bawdy book with no story or purpose. While reading this  book I kept thinking, "This too shall pass".

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner - Gilded

The creamy eye liner goes on smoothly and stays put. It doesn't fade or budge throughout the day. The gilded color is a golden bronze color with a hint of shimmer. The only downside, some of the smudge stick doesn't turn very well and get stuck.

ColourPop Super Shock Pressed Pigment - Too Shy

The creamy eyeshadow goes on smoothly but it sometimes leaves a bit of chunky glitter behind. It is a bright cobalt blue that depending on how the light hits the color, it becomes an iridescent color. My favorite color when I want to rock mermaid vibe.

Book Review - The Wolf Road by Beth Lewis

Photo Credit - Amazon

Elka was seven  years old when she met Trapper. She was alone, desolate, cold and hungry in great wilderness where survival in the winter is rare.  Trapper, the lone hunter lives alone in a shack and taken in Elka and teaching her how to hunt and survive in the cold wilderness. Elka comes to learn that Trapper has a terrible secret and is willing to do anything to keep it a secret. She decides to run from the man who taught her everything and she has been calling "daddy" for the last couple of the years. On her journey, will Elka be able to face the dark secrets she has kept hidden away? Will Elka be able to outsmart the hunter who taught  her everything?

The novel was riveting and very hard to put down. The author utilized wonderful language to create a world where characters are "eat or be eaten". I only wish the wolf had a more prominent role in this book.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion**

Philosophy Candy Cane Shampoo, Shower Gel and Bubble Bath

I found this limited edition holiday scent in my recent stash cleaning. I came across this sweet scented 3-in-1 formula and couldn’t wait to use it. The peppermint scented product has the most alluring scent and is perfect for the holidays. Like most of Philosophy’s bath products, it provides a generous lather but you would need to follow up with lotion afterwards.

Pevonia Age Defying Marine Collagen Cream

Photo Credit - Pevonia

The creamy lotion is packed with collagen, squalene, vitamin E and Safflower seed oil. The cream promises to infuse moisture, plump fine lines along with protecting against UV damage. I used a tiny bit of lotion and my face felt smooth, soft and hydrated. I would definitely buy again if it didn’t cost an arm and a leg.

Benefit Bene Balm Hydrating Lip Balm

The hydrating lip balm has light sheet tint that has slight fruity scent. The lip balm conditions and nourish lips. The tint has build-able color and leaves lips soft. The color was a bit sheer for my liking and also while the lip balm goes on smoothly  -- it melted in my bag on a hot day. Definitely not the worth the hefty price.

Book Review - Finding My Way by Kathryn Foster

Photo Credit - Amazon

Camilla is a retired psychologist who was diagnosed with cancer, however, she manages to live until 94. Camilla is surrounded by people who love her. She was 55, when she met Javier, a fellow dancer and falls madly in love with each other. Her lifelong friendship with Rosie, who have been together through thick and thin. Along with her close relationship with her great granddaughter,  Chelsea.

This book was awful and painful to read. The way it was formatted alone was an eyesore. It was boring and made very little sense. I don't get the reason why the story alternated between past and present and at random points for random stories. Then, I don't understand how Camilla and Chelsea has a power to "heal" people. Is it a joke or real? Either way, this book was not worth the time it took to read.

**Disclosure - I receieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**