Friday, September 13, 2019

Book Review - Charlie Hernandez and the Castle of Bones by Ryan Calejo + Giveaway + Spotlight

Photo Credit - Amazon

Charlie Hernandez likes to believe that he just an average run of the mill kid. Never mind that he slays demons and has an encyclopedia-like knowledge base of Hispanic and Latino mythology in his mind. And he is a Morphling, which allows him to manifest into any animal trait found in nature. 

While Charlie is getting used to his new "normal" life, he has to constantly watch out for the La Mano Peluda.  However, when Witch Queen Jo is suddenly kidnapped, Charlie is certain the La Mano Peluda is at it again. Charlie is determined to rescue the queen and keep their alliances intact. Together with his best friend, Violet Rey, they embark on a dangerous magical journey to track down the masterminds behind Queen Jo's capture. As each clue leads the pair into more danger, they are left with more questions than answers.

I started reading this book first as I didn't realize it was the second book in the series. However, while the novel could be read as a standalone, I think it would be better to read the books in order. I thought the novel was an interesting read and fun. I like how the author weaved mythology seamlessly into the story. Personally, I am not well versed in Latin mythology so, some parts of the novel were confusing. However, it was an enjoyable read and I can't read more of his books.

  **Disclosure - I received an unedited free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**


About the Book:
Title: CHARLIE HERNANDEZ AND THE LEAGUE OF SHADOWS (Charlie Hernández #1)
Author: Ryan Calejo
Pub. Date: October 23, 2018
Publisher: Aladdin
Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, audiobook
Pages: 330
Find it: GoodreadsAmazonKindleAudibleB&NiBooksKoboTBD

“This is a perfect pick for kids who love Rick Riordan’s many series, particularly for those eager for mythologies beyond Greek and Roman stories.” —Booklist (starred review)

“A winner for all kids, but it will be especially beloved by Latinx and Hispanic families.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review) 

The Lightning Thief meets the Story Thieves series in this middle grade fantasy inspired by Hispanic folklore, legends, and myths from the Iberian Peninsula and Central and South America.

Charlie Hernández has always been proud of his Latin American heritage. He loves the culture, the art, and especially the myths. Thanks to his abuela’s stories, Charlie possesses an almost encyclopedic knowledge of the monsters and ghouls who have spent the last five hundred years haunting the imaginations of children all across the Iberian Peninsula, as well as Central and South America. And even though his grandmother sometimes hinted that the tales might be more than mere myth, Charlie’s always been a pragmatist. Even barely out of diapers, he knew the stories were just make-believe—nothing more than intricately woven fables meant to keep little kids from misbehaving.

But when Charlie begins to experience freaky bodily manifestations—ones all too similar to those described by his grandma in his favorite legend—he is suddenly swept up in a world where the mythical beings he’s spent his entire life hearing about seem to be walking straight out of the pages of Hispanic folklore and into his life. And even stranger, they seem to know more about him than he knows about himself.

Soon, Charlie finds himself in the middle of an ancient battle between La Liga, a secret society of legendary mythological beings sworn to protect the Land of the Living, and La Mano Negra (a.k.a. the Black Hand), a cabal of evil spirits determined to rule mankind. With only the help of his lifelong crush, Violet Rey, and his grandmother’s stories to guide him, Charlie must navigate a world where monsters and brujas rule and things he couldn’t possibly imagine go bump in the night. That is, if he has any hope of discovering what’s happening to him and saving his missing parents (oh, and maybe even the world).

No pressure, muchacho.



About Ryan: 


Ryan Calejo was born and raised in south Florida. He graduated from the University of Miami with a BA. He’s been invited to join both the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the Golden Key International Honour Society. He teaches swimming to elementary school students, chess to middle school students, and writing to high school students. Having been born into a family of immigrants and growing up in the so-called “Capital of Latin America,” Ryan knows the importance of diversity in our communities and is passionate about writing books that children of all ethnicities can relate to. His first novel was Charlie Hernández & the League of Shadows.



Giveaway Details:

1 winner will win a signed hardcover of CHARLIE HERNANDEZ AND THE LEAGUE OF SHADOWS, US ONLY

Rafflecopter link:



Tour Schedule:
Week One:
8/19/2019- BookHounds YA- Interview
8/20/2019- Savings in Seconds- Excerpt
8/21/2019- Twirling Book Princess- Excerpt
8/22/2019- Country Road Reviews- Review
8/23/2019- Lifestyle Of Me- Review

Week Two:
8/26/2019- Rhythmicbooktrovert- Review
8/27/2019- Wonder Struck- Review
8/28/2019- Two Chicks on Books- Interview
8/29/2019- Aunt Addie's Bookshelf- Review
8/30/2019- The Desert Bibliophile- Review

Week Three:
9/2/2019- The Layaway Dragon- Review
9/3/2019- Random Bookish Banter- Review
9/4/2019- Eli to the nth- Review
9/5/2019- Novel Novice- Guest Post
9/6/2019- Fyrekatz Blog- Review

Week Four:
9/9/2019- Nicole's Novel Reads- Review
9/10/2019- Marshmallow Pudding- Review
9/11/2019- Nerdophiles- Review
9/12/2019- PopTheButterfly Reads- Review
9/13/2019- two points of interest- Review

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Book Review - Dr. Seuss's Horse Museum by Dr. Seuss + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

The illustrated book is based off a manuscript written Dr. Suess that was recently discovered in 2013. The book reads like a visit to an art museum with a horse as your guide through the experience. Seasoned illustrator took inspiration from Dr. Seuss's original sketches and combine it with his own original ideas.

I have been a fan of Dr. Seuss for many years. I was very excited to see a new book inspired by his work.  However, I was a bit disappointed that this book didn't follow the same rhyming and lighthearted approach as the original books. The book was a wonderful tool to teach children about different points of views.  I like how they showed different art styles and had a glossary to explain more. The book is a fun treat for any young reader about to embark on their first trip to the art museum.

  **Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**


About the Book:
Title: DR. SEUSS'S HORSE MUSEUM
Author: Dr. Seuss & Andrew Joyner (Illustrations)
Pub. Date: September 3, 2019
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
Formats: Hardcover, eBook
Pages: 80
Find it: GoodreadsAmazonKindleAudibleB&NiBooksKoboTBD

A never-before-published Dr. Seuss book about creating and looking at art!

Based on a manuscript and sketches discovered in 2013, this book is like a visit to a museum--with a horse as your guide!

Explore how different artists have seen horses, and maybe even find a new way of looking at them yourself. Discover full-color photographic art reproductions of pieces by Picasso, George Stubbs, Rosa Bonheur, Alexander Calder, Jacob Lawrence, Deborah Butterfield, Franz Marc, Jackson Pollock, and many others--all of which feature a horse! Young readers will find themselves delightfully transported by the engaging equines as they learn about the creative process and how to see art in new ways.

Taking inspiration from Dr. Seuss's original sketches, acclaimed illustrator Andrew Joyner has created a look that is both subtly Seussian and wholly his own. His whimsical illustrations are combined throughout with "real-life" art. Cameo appearances by classic Dr. Seuss characters (among them the Cat in the Hat, the Grinch, and Horton the Elephant) make Dr. Seuss's Horse Museum a playful picture book that is totally unique. Ideal for home or classroom use, it encourages critical thinking and makes a great gift for Seuss fans, artists, and horse lovers of all ages.

Publisher's Notes discuss the discovery of the manuscript and sketches, Dr. Seuss's interest in understanding modern art, the process of creating the book, and information about each of the artists and art reproductions in the book.



Theodor Seuss Geisel was born 2 March 1904 in Springfield, MA. He graduated Dartmouth College in 1925, and proceeded on to Oxford University with the intent of acquiring a doctorate in literature. At Oxford he met Helen Palmer, who he wed in 1927. He returned from Europe in 1927, and began working for a magazine called Judge, the leading humor magazine in America at the time, submitting both cartoons and humorous articles for them. Additionally, he was submitting cartoons to Life, Vanity Fair and Liberty. In some of his works, he'd made reference to an insecticide called Flit. These references gained notice, and led to a contract to draw comic ads for Flit. This association lasted 17 years, gained him national exposure, and coined the catchphrase "Quick, Henry, the Flit!"

In 1936 on the way to a vaction in Europe, listening to the rhythm of the ship's engines, he came up with And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street, which was then promptly rejected by the first 43 publishers he showed it to. Eventually in 1937 a friend published the book for him, and it went on to at least moderate success.

During WW II, Geisel joined the army and was sent to Hollywood. Captain Geisel would write for Frank Capra's Signal Corps Unit (for which he won the Legion of Merit) and do documentaries (he won Oscar's for Hitler Lives and Design for Death). He also created a cartoon called Gerald McBoing-Boing which also won him an Oscar.

In May of 1954, Life published a report concerning illiteracy among school children. The report said, among other things, that children were having trouble to read because their books were boring. This inspired Geisel's publisher, and prompted him to send Geisel a list of 400 words he felt were important, asked him to cut the list to 250 words (the publishers idea of how many words at one time a first grader could absorb), and write a book. Nine months later, Geisel, using 220 of the words given to him published The Cat in the Hat, which went on to instant success.

In 1960 Bennett Cerf bet Geisel $50 that he couldn't write an entire book using only fifty words. The result was Green Eggs and Ham. Cerf never paid the $50 from the bet.

Helen Palmer Geisel died in 1967. Theodor Geisel married Audrey Stone Diamond in 1968. Theodor Seuss Geisel died 24 September 1991.

Also worked under the pen name:
Theo Le Sieg 



About Andrew:


Andrew Joyner is an internationally published illustrator and author. His popular books include The Terrible Plop, written by Ursula Dubosarsky. He lives in South Australia.


Giveaway Details:

3 winners will receive finished copies of DR. SEUSS'S HORSE MUSEUM, US Only.

Rafflecopter link:



Tour Schedule:
Week One:
9/2/2019- BookHounds YaReview
9/3/2019- 100 Pages A DayReview
9/4/2019- Book-KeepingReview
9/6/2019- Fictitious FoxReview

Week Two:
9/9/2019- Inspired by SavannahReview
9/10/2019- Lifestyle Of MeReview
9/11/2019- Little Red ReadsReview
9/12/2019- two points of interestReview
9/13/2019- Eli to the nthReview

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Julep Rethink Your Shower Hydrating Body Cleansing Oil









I usually use a  combination of shower gels and bar soaps for showering purposes. I feel like some shower gels are not moisturizing enough and well, some bar soaps are dull. Especially on days where I need to something "extra" to make my mornings more bearable. 

The lightweight body cleansing oil is packed with grape seed oil, coconut oil, kukui nut oil, grapefruit peel oil, and glycerin. It promises to leave skin hydrated and moisturized. The cleansing oil provided a generous lather and did leave my skin feeling soft. However, I still had to follow up with lotion.  It's not a bad shower cleanser but, it's definitely pricer than the brands available at the drugstore.

Sunday, September 8, 2019

Colourpop Super Shock Ultra Glitter Eyeshadow - Birthday Wish










The creamy powdery eyeshadow goes on smoothly when applied with my fingers. I found when I used a makeup brush there was a lot of fallout. The champagne color eyeshadow has pink, violet and blue glitter. I love that most of Colourpop's eyeshadows are long-lasting and doesn't crease and fade.  I believe I got this eyeshadow for free as part of their birthday special. Otherwise, while it is a beautiful color, it's not usually my go-to color.

Friday, September 6, 2019

Book Review - The Liar's Room by Simon Lelic


Photo Credit - Amazon

Susanna Fenton is living a lie. She is keeping secrets from her daughter and her friends. Fourteen years ago, she left her husband and her identity behind to keep her daughter safe. She works as a therapist helping people, hoping she put her past behind her.

A young man, Adam Geraghty walks into her office, insisting he needs help from Susanna. Susanna feels that Adam isn't being honest with her and he has a darker motive. She begins to fear that her secret has been discovered. Why is Adam asking Susanna for help? What are his true motives behind his visit?

The novel had a few twists and turns but, I didn't find the novel to be exciting. I didn't find any of the characters relatable and I felt that the novel moved very slowly. Overall, it wasn't a bad read but, it wasn't very psychologically thrilling.



 **Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

Book Review - Wearing the Greek Millionaire's Ring by Jennifer Faye + Giveaway


Photo Credit - Amazon

Two years after her husband's death, Stasia Marinakos is trying to learn to enjoy life again. She decides to take an extended vacation for her birthday on a Mediterranean cruise. She crosses path her childhood friend, Roberto Carrass. Stasia is excited for the familiar face until she is mistaken for his fiancée. Roberto and Stasia agree to continue the charade to stop his family matchmaking. However, they both feel their attraction growing but, what will happen to their budding romance when the vacation ends?

The novel was a quick and light-hearted beach read. Personally, while I understand that Roberto and Stasia knew each other, I felt like they fell in love rather quickly. I felt that there was a lot of back and forth between each of the characters because they couldn't be honest about how they felt with each but, wanted honesty in return. Overall, it was an enjoyable book for a quiet afternoon.

  **Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**


Wearing the Greek Millionaire's Ring
(Greek Island Brides #3)
By Jennifer Faye
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 256 Pages
September 1st 2019 by Harlequin Romance

A convenient engagement…

An inconvenient attraction!

In this Greek Island Brides story, widow Stasia Marinakos is learning to enjoy life again aboard a Mediterranean cruise. Her chemistry with gorgeous Greek tycoon Roberto Carrass is a pleasant surprise—until she’s mistaken for his fiancée! Nevertheless, the guarded bachelor asks Stasia to continue the charade to stop his family from matchmaking. As their attraction grows, their fake romance feels ever more real…but what will happen when the vacation ends?

Freebie


Go to Jennifer's Contact Page HERE and order your bookmark(s)!

The Greek Island Brides Series

Finding love that lasts to infinity!

All marriages that take place on renowned wedding destination Infinity Island are guaranteed to last forever!

And the picturesque Greek island is about to weave its magic for friends Lea, Popi and Stasia. They dream of finding their own happy-ever-afters... And they’re about to meet three billionaires who will sweep them off their feet—and down the aisle!


About the Author


Award-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances with rugged cowboys, sexy billionaires and enchanting royalty. Internationally published with books translated into nine languages. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards.


Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


- 1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card and a signed print copy of Wearing the Greek Millionaire's Ring (print if US, ebook if international)
1 winner will receive signed print copies of the entire Greek Island Brides series (US only)
1 winner will receive a signed print copy of  Wearing the Greek Millionaire's Ring (US only)
- Ends September 12, 2019


Monday, September 2, 2019

Book Review - Tidelands (Fairmile #1) by Philippa Gregory

Photo Credit - Amazon

 In 1648 in England, there is a civil war between the king and his people. The struggle reaches every corner of the kingdom, even the remote tidelands. Alinor is a  poverty-stricken midwife and a healer. However, people around her believe she practices magic. They believe she is friends with faeries. 

On one Midsummer's Eve, Alinor decides to walk among the graveyard under a full moon to look for her abusive husband's ghost. Instead, she crosses path with James, who is on the run and looking for refuge. Alinor decides to help James but, little does she know that she is leading her heart into danger.

To be honest, I wasn't sure what to expect when I first picked up this novel. However, I do know that the novel had an interesting premise but, it was unnecessarily long and boring. I felt like maybe 200 pages of the novel was just fluff. The last few pages are when the story finally progresses but, I felt it was more of a cliffhanger for a second novel. Overall, the novel had a good plot but, it was too much fluff to be enjoyable.


 **Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Saturday, August 31, 2019

Book Review - Rules For Vanishing Rules For Vanishing by Kate Alice Marshall

Photo Source - Amazon

Once a year, a magical road appears in the middle of the forest. Near the end of the road, the ghost of Lucy Gallow is waiting for new travelers. The game isn't for the faint of heart as losing can cost you everything. 

One year ago, Sara's sister, Becca disappeared. Sara knows that Becca went to find the ghost of Lucy Gallows. However, Becca is trapped on the road and unable to return to back to Briar Glen. Nobody believes that the tale of Lucy is real. However, Sara knows it's real and she is going to prove it.

Sara gathers her friends in the woods to search for Becca when the road appears in front of them. All they have to do is walk down the path. However, they soon learn that the path is filled with mysterious things and many of them are not from this world. They learn that following the path means following its rules and there will fatal consequences for anyone who breaks them. Will Sara be able to pay the toll necessary to find her sister?

The novel was an interesting and engrossing read. I like included "transcripts" of text messages and voicemails. However, I did find portions of the book confusing and the ending left me with a lot of questions. I am hoping that there is a sequel or this is made into a movie because it was a really interesting story!


  **Disclosure - I received a free unedited copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**