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Thursday, February 25, 2021

The Paris Dressmaker by Kristy Cambron (Book Review and Giveaway!)


Once again, Cambron transports us to an unforgettable time in WWII history, this time through the fashion and art world.


Book Details:

Book Title: The Paris Dressmaker by Kristy Cambron
Category: Adult Fiction, 400 pages
Genre: Historical Fiction/Dual timeline/WWII Fiction
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Release dates: February 16, 2021
Content Rating: PG (Mature theme of WWII)

Book Description:

Based on true accounts of how Parisiennes resisted the Nazi occupation in World War II—from fashion houses to the city streets—comes a story of two courageous women who risked everything to fight an evil they couldn’t abide.

Paris, 1939. Maison Chanel has closed, thrusting haute couture dressmaker Lila de Laurent out of the world of high fashion as Nazi soldiers invade the streets and the City of Lights slips into darkness. Lila’s life is now a series of rations, brutal restrictions, and carefully controlled propaganda while Paris is cut off from the rest of the world. Yet in hidden corners of the city, the faithful pledge to resist. Lila is drawn to La Resistance and is soon using her skills as a dressmaker to infiltrate the Nazi elite. She takes their measurements and designs masterpieces, all while collecting secrets in the glamorous Hôtel Ritz—the heart of the Nazis’ Parisian headquarters. But when dashing René Touliard suddenly reenters her world, Lila finds her heart tangled between the determination to help save his Jewish family and bolstering the fight for liberation.

Paris, 1943. Sandrine Paquet’s job is to catalog the priceless works of art bound for the Führer’s Berlin, masterpieces stolen from prominent Jewish families. But behind closed doors, she secretly forages for information from the underground resistance. Beneath her compliant façade lies a woman bent on uncovering the fate of her missing husband . . . but at what cost? As Hitler’s regime crumbles, Sandrine is drawn in deeper when she uncrates an exquisite blush Chanel gown concealing a cryptic message that may reveal the fate of a dressmaker who vanished from within the fashion elite.

Told across the span of the Nazi occupation, The Paris Dressmaker highlights the brave women who used everything in their power to resist darkness and restore light to their world.


My Review:
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani

I have read three previous books by Kristy Cambron so I was excited about her latest release The Paris Dressmaker. Once again, Cambron transports us to an unforgettable time in WWII history, this time through the fashion and art world. 

The story is about two brave women who use their work positions to get information for the resistance. Lila de Laurent is an haute couture dressmaker and Sandrine Pacquet works with an art historian cataloging art confiscated by the Germans. The story follows the lives of these two women during the four-year occupation in Paris. I enjoyed both of these women's stories that gave us a glimpse of what it must have been like living in Paris during those difficult war years and how some women chose to collaborate with the Germans while others courageously smuggled information to the underground resistance.

I usually love dual timeline stories, however, in this case, I did find it slowed the pace of the story. The reason is that there was a dual timeline for both women, so it became confusing sometimes to remember where the story left off for that particular character. The novel has a strong beginning with Lila de Laurent running for her life in the Meudon Forest as she is hunted by the Nazis. Then it switches to Sandrine's story. Then it switches back to Lila's story but to a previous timeline. The chapters had cliffhanger endings but it was a while before we would get back to it and this was at times frustrating. I think, in this case, this story would have been better told with one timeline and the use of well-placed flashbacks.

Also, I was waiting for the connection between the two women but it was minor and did not converge as I had hoped. That beautiful Chanel gown that is on the front cover concealing a cryptic message ended up being an anticlimactic plot for me.

However, I appreciated the research the author did and how she based some parts of her story on true accounts. I found Sandrine's story more heartbreaking and relatable to me since she was married and a mother. She was forced into certain situations and had to make the most of it, and she did so stoically. I found she had inner strength and poise.

The Paris Dressmaker was a good read but I did like her Hidden Masterpiece books better.



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About the Author:


Kristy Cambron is an award-winning author of historical fiction, including her bestselling debut The Butterfly and the Violin, and an author of nonfiction, including the Verse Mapping Series Bibles and Bible studies. Kristy’s work has been named to Publishers Weekly Religion & Spirituality TOP 10, Library Journal Reviews’ Best Books, RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards, received 2015 & 2017 INSPY Award nominations, and has been featured at CBN, Lifeway Women, Jesus Calling, Country Woman Magazine, MICI Magazine, Faithwire, Declare, (in)Courage, and Bible Gateway. She holds a degree in Art History/Research Writing and lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons, where she can probably be bribed with a peppermint mocha latte and a good read.

Connect with the author:



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Ends Feb 26, 2021



The Paris Dressmaker




Be a Superhero in the Kitchen by Donna Glass (Book Review and Guest Post)


This book is a fun recipe book with delicious kid-friendly recipes that are easy to make. Perfect for the picky eater in your family!

Book Details:

Book Title: BE A SUPERHERO IN THE KITCHEN by Donna Glass
Illustrated by Alejandro Chamberlain
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 6-10), 48 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Cook Book
Publisher: Mascot
Release date: March 2021
Tour dates: Feb 22 to Mar 5, 2021
Content Rating: G. This children's book is for everyone.

Book Description:

Every caregiver knows the trials of feeding a picky eater. Some nights are truly a battle. Nerves are frayed, and a pleasant, relaxing dinner can quickly be filled with tears, tantrums, and some nights, a battle of wills. Well, my goal with this book is to tip the scales in our favor. One surefire way I've discovered to get my picky eaters to eat is to let them help make the meal. After all, food tastes better when you've had a hand in fixing it. Let your child try their hand with the recipes in this book. A child who becomes the superhero of dinnertime is one who eats super well.

My Review:
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani

Having raised a son who has been a picky eater ever since he was a babe, I appreciated reading Be a Superhero in the Kitchen. I agree that including children in the cooking or preparation process is part of teaching them to love eating and trying different foods.

The first thing that I noticed about this book is that it's bright and colorful. The recipes have cool names, such as Gutsy Garlic Bread Burgers and Boomtastic Butter Cookies. We get some smart tips right at the beginning, written in such a way that is easily understood even by very young kids. Essentially, this book is a fun recipe book with delicious kid-friendly recipes that are easy to make. I got some ideas that I think my teen son would like! The kids depicted in the book are of various nationalities and one child is also in a wheelchair. That impressed me! I've worked in special education and I don't see too many disabled children represented in books that aren't focused on special needs.

The illustrations are cute and pop off the page. They are age-appropriate and I think they suit the topic well. I loved the girl with the colander on her head. The idea is that kids can be superheroes in the kitchen because they are participating in an adult activity and making a difference. They are also being creative. Each recipe comes with superhero tips too. Once kids get used to manipulating food and creating meals, this can become a lifelong habit. The kitchen is a place where many good useful lessons can be learned.

If you have a picky eater and are looking to stimulate your child at mealtimes, getting them involved is the best way to do it. Who knows, the recipes in this book can also motivate you to try inventing some of your own or bring you to search out other children's recipe books for continued learning. 


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Guest Post:
My Advice to Budding Writers
by Donna Glass

Since I write children's books, I can only describe my journey and what I learned. I hope my following words help any inspiring author.

Bringing a book to life requires patience and, in some cases, lots of time. There are edits on the manuscript, selecting an illustrator, and rounds of revisions with an illustrator to get your vision just right. You'll also have to handle modifications on design and layout. Then, there's the waiting game on when your baby goes live.

If you have a publisher, your book will be sent off to the printer. Mine took months to be delivered. If you go indie, you can select Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Lulu, or a number of other places to print your book on-demand.

Despite all the frustrations you'll face, and you'll face some, focus on when you have the book in your hands. Visual a smiling customer is holding your book, eager to read it, or overjoyed because they just did, and it's that good.

Nothing in life is rarely easy. However, every time I get mentioned online with a Super Chef in action, I am grateful I remained patient and put this book on the market.

One day, you'll have a similar moment with a reader, and it'll make your whole day brighter. I wish you all luck and great success.

 

Meet the Author:


I am a wife, mother of two kids, a lover of comic books, and a home cook. I believe in making mealtime an enjoyable experience through joint cooking and kid-friendly meals. I also believe kids that help with the cooking process are more likely to eat their meals, which leads to a happy, peaceful dining experience. Be a Superhero in the Kitchen is my first children’s cookbook, but I strive to publish more.

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Monday, February 22, 2021

Mickey on the Move by Michelle Wagner (Book Review and Giveaway!)


Mickey on the Move is a story about a deaf boy who wears cochlear implants to help him hear. Enter the giveaway for a chance to win an autographed copy.

Book Details:

Book Title: Mickey on the Move by Michelle Wagner
Illustrated by: Jenny Phelps
Category: Children's Non-Fiction (Ages 3-7), 38 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher: Mascot Books
Release date: Jan 2021
Tour dates: Feb 1 to Mar 5, 2021
Content Rating: G for everyone.

Book Description:

In this big-hearted book, the real story of a young boy with deafness in his ears is aided by his mother and teachers in navigating new school experiences. Mickey is just like everyone else, except he wears cochlear implants and has to do things just a little differently than most. This charming tale reminds us that we can all find happiness if we lean on and support each other.


My Review:
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani

Mickey on the Move is a story about a deaf boy who wears cochlear implants to help him hear. Mickey is starting sixth grade at a big new school but he isn't worried because he has changed schools five times and is used to being on the move. At school, his teacher wears a special microphone that is connected to Mickey's implants so that he can hear everything. When he has a hard time in the noisy cafeteria, his mother and teacher sit with Mickey to brainstorm a solution.

Having worked with special needs children, I recognize that books that deal with topics such as this one are essential in children's literature. This book can help children learn more about deafness and cochlear implants. However, it is written in such a way that makes it come across as a short journalistic recounting of a deaf boy's journey to getting cochlear implants. I did not really get a good sense of what it felt like to be a boy who spent his whole childhood dealing with a deafness problem. For example, Mickey has attended various special schools that were far away from his home. How did he feel about being the new kid with special needs in five different schools? Had he ever felt scared, apprehensive, a little nervous? When children read stories, they want to meet characters that express feelings they can relate to.

When Mickey sneaks into the library to eat lunch, his mother figures the reason is that it's too noisy, so they sit down with his teacher to figure out a solution. We never get Mickey's version of how he felt, needing to isolate himself from his friends because of the noisy environment. There is not enough characterization in this story. Mickey, who is 11 or 12, seems to breeze through life with wonderful friends and virtually no problems as he navigates his tween years. 

The illustrations were age-appropriate, but I did find some of the facial proportions slightly off. Apart from these issues, Mickey on the Move is a book that can introduce deafness to children and open up this topic for parents to discuss with their children. Being different is nothing new, but the more special needs topics our children are exposed to the better this will prepare them to show acceptance and tolerance.


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Meet the Author:

Born and raised in Chicago, Michelle Wagner was always a very positive and outgoing woman. Her energetic love for children and zest for life was admired by everyone who knew her. Michelle is a realtor whose career background involved restaurants and always helping other people. She has dedicated time and support to charities and events to help other children with hearing loss and assist families as they work through the different approaches to raising a special needs child in a typical environment.

Connect with the author: 



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Ends March 12, 2021


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Wednesday, February 17, 2021

The Adventures of Forkman: What's That Noise? by Tiffany Caldwell and W.R. MacKenzie (Book Review and Giveaway!)



What's That Noise is a book about mealtime etiquette. Scroll down to enter the giveaway for a chance to win a copy!

Book Details:

Book Title: The Adventures of Forkman: What's That Noise? by Tiffany Caldwell and W.R. MacKenzie
Illustrated by: Vanessa Alexandre
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 38 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher: Mascot Books
Release date: Jan 2021
Tour dates: Feb 1 to Mar 5, 2021
Content Rating: G. This children's book is for everyone.

Book Description:

When poor manners are present, Forkman will be there to save the day! Join Kathryn and William as they learn how to load the dishwasher properly and avoid inappropriate distractions at the table with the help of all their utensil friends. This second book in The Adventures of Forkman series is a great introduction to mealtime etiquette for readers of all ages.


My Review:
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani

What's That Noise is a book about mealtime etiquette. This book has two chapters that each address a topic: learning how to properly load a dishwasher and learning what noises should not be heard at the dinner table.  The book starts at Chapter 3, and initially I was confused and wondered what happened to the first two chapters. I'm assuming they are part of the first book in the series. There is no indication on the front of the book cover that this is book two of a series. I did not particularly think this was the best  way to format the book, as children may question why they are missing out on these chapters.

I think learning proper etiquette from a young age is so valuable. Learning good manners is part of growing up. I especially liked that the authors included putting away cellphones and devices when at the family table. The authors use the word toot when referring to passing gas, but I think using the word fart would have been better. Kids love that word and it's funnier and better understood than toot. I know my kids would have asked me why tooting is wrong as a sound when they sing toot toot while playing with trains or cars.

The illustrations are cute and appropriate for the target audience. The facial expressions tend to be similar throughout, however.

The Adventures of Forkman series is a good introduction to basic manners. Parents can have much to discuss with their children as they read them together, such as doing chores before playtime and refraining from making offensive noises at the dinner table.


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Meet the Authors:

Tiffany Caldwell: I have worked with children for over thirteen years and every year basic manners become less evident. When I was growing up, my sisters and I took etiquette classes during the summer while we visited our grandparents. Etiquette was always a big part of our upbringing. ​ When we would have our family dinners, my dad, W.R. MacKenzie, would make our utensils come to life as we were eating. Forkman became a part of our dinner routine! ​ I am a mother of three great kids and a military wife to my hero. A few years ago, I told my dad we needed to start writing our story. We are so excited to share Forkman with the world!

W.R. MacKenzie: I spent thirty-nine years in the bakery business. After I retired and my four children were grown, I felt it was time to share the importance of the family meal with the world. ​​​​​The Adventures of Forkman teaches children how to properly conduct themselves at the table. Our books are filled with characters all children can relate with and I believe Forkman and his crew will help children of all ages learn manners and table etiquette.

Connect with the authors: 




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Sunday, February 14, 2021

The Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives by Tim Darcy Ellis (Book Review and Giveaway!)


A novel based on a period of historical figure's Juan Luis Vives's life.

Book Details:

Book Title: The Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives by Tim Darcy Ellis
Category: Adult Fiction, 246 pages
Genre: Literary fiction, historical fiction, religious historical fiction
Publisher: Tellwell
Release date: 2020
Tour dates: Feb 1 to Feb 12, 2021
Content Rating: PG-13 + M. Includes some f-words, religious profanities, and mature themes (addiction, adultery)


Book Description:

It is 1522, The Spanish Netherlands, Juan Luis Vives, a renowned academic, has fled Spain to avoid the fires of the Inquisition, yet even here he is not safe. When England's Sir Thomas More offers him the role of tutor to Mary, daughter of Catherine of Aragon and Henry VIII, he eagerly accepts.

While publicly navigating life as a 'New Christian,' Vives is quickly drawn into the secretive and dangerous world of London's Jewish community. With a foot in each world, he is torn between the love of two women.

Inside the Tudor court, the king and queen separately seek Vives's assistance to support their opposed demands. He must betray one to help the other, knowing his decision could cost him his life. Whom will he choose? Will his wily skills allow him to manipulate them both? Not only his survival but that of his family and his entire people hang in the balance.


My Review:
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani

Juan Luis Vives was a scholar who fled from Spain to the Netherlands during the period of the Spanish Inquisition. The Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives is a novel based on a seven-year period of this historical figure's life from 1522 to 1529. The cover and the book's description pulled me in, and I was looking forward to learning more about this scholar.

I was intrigued by the life of Juan Luis Vives who lived as a New Christian to hide his Judaic background. The novel succeeded in making me realize the horrors Jews faced during the Spanish Inquisition. It's written in the first person with Juan recounting his story in his diary. I must admit I found this writing style sometimes hard to follow as Juan flitted from one thought to another.

As interesting as Juan's life had been, being involved in the Tudor court and all, I had some difficulty connecting to the characters, and to Juan in particular. There was a lot going on in this novel and I sometimes found myself confused. 

If you like books based on historical figures, you may give this one a try. Many readers enjoyed it, although the writing failed to grasp my full attention.


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About the Author: 

Author Tim Darcy Ellis

Tim Darcy Ellis (BA BSc, MHSc) is a writer, physiotherapy business owner, and formerly a professional archaeologist. Tim studied Archaeology at the University of York (BA Hons 1988) and as a professional archaeologist, worked on sites throughout England and Wales. He held posts at the Museum of London and the British Museum's medieval galleries. Tim is currently Managing Director and Principal Physiotherapist of Excel Physiotherapy and Wellness. He qualified as a physiotherapist at the University of East London in 1998. He moved to Sydney in 2000 where he completed his master's degree in 2002. Tim is chief writer of Excel Life magazine: writing and teaching extensively on health and wellness and specializing in the treatment of complex hip and pelvic pain.

Connect with the author: 




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Ends Feb 22, 2021




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Saturday, February 13, 2021

Of Darkness and Light by Heidi Eljarbo (Book Review)


I am thrilled to have discovered a historical mystery series that has so many elements I enjoy. This novel is exciting, intriguing, and a great start to the series. 

Book Details:

Book Title: Of Darkness and Light by Heidi Eljarbo
Category: Adult Fiction, 261 pages
Genre: Historical Mystery/Dual timeline/WWII Fiction
Publisher: Independently published
Release dates: May 12, 2020
Content Rating: PG (murder, war crimes)

Book Description:

In this first book of a new historical mystery series, a young art historian faces a tough choice in German-occupied Norway.

Oslo, 1944. Soli Hansen’s passion for art history is and always has been a way of life for her. While she spends her days working in an art shop, WWII is taking its toll on everyone. Apprehensive of the consequences, Soli avoids becoming entangled in the war resistance efforts. She closes her eyes in hopes the enemy will retreat and leave her beautiful country for good.

But when a woman is found dead in the alley alongside the art shop and a painting from the last auction goes missing, Soli is thrown into the thickest of the fray involving both Nazi art theft and the Norwegian resistance.

Once Soli finds her courage, there’s no turning back. Her personal life is turned upside-down with danger, lies, spying, and an incredible discovery.

In this dual timeline novel, Heidi Eljarbo paints a vivid picture of what people are willing to do in desperate times. With unforgettable characters and rich historical details, Of Darkness and Light will keep the reader mesmerized until the last satisfying page.

Perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Lucinda Riley, Katherine Neville, and Kate Mosse.


My Review:
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani

I am thrilled to have discovered a historical mystery series that has so many elements I enjoy. It's set during WWII, but in a country I have not read much about: Norway. Furthermore, it's got a young heroine who is an art historian. I love books with art as a theme, and this one has an Italian artist at it's center.

Soli Hansen works in an art shop. She minds her own business and tries not to see the effects that war has on her country. But then a woman is found murdered in the alley behind her shop and from that moment onwards nothing is the same. She meets a police inspector whose questions lead her to realize the Nazis are stealing valuable art. She discovers the resistance work of young Norwegians who are trying to save artwork from getting in the hands of the Nazis. Suddenly, Soli is involved in a dangerous mission.

This novel is exciting, intriguing, and a great start to the series. Soli is a naïve, bright young woman who quickly realizes that fighting one's enemy can be done in many ways. She learns to be brave and courageous. And she discovers the value of her skills as an art historian.

There is a dual timelime in this novel with the secondary part that takes place in the 16th century. It's the story of the famous Italian painter Carravaggio and his art work that ties in to Soli's time. I have seen this artist's artwork when I visited a museum in Rome and it's quite striking. I enjoyed this part of the novel very much too.

If you love historical mysteries set in Germany-occupied Europe with art theft as a theme, this novel is a must-read. The next book in the series The Other Cipher was released in Dec 2020. I cannot wait to see where Eljarbo brings us next in Soli's clandestine work in preserving precious artwork.



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About the Author:


Heidi Eljarbo is the bestselling author of Catching a Witch. She grew up in a home filled with books and artwork and she never truly imagined she would do anything other than write and paint. She studied art, languages, and history, all of which have come in handy when working as an author, magazine journalist, and painter.

After living in Canada, six US states, Japan, Switzerland, and Austria, Heidi now calls Norway home. She and her husband have a total of nine children, thirteen grandchildren–so far–in addition to a bouncy Wheaten Terrier.

Their favorite retreat is a mountain cabin, where they hike in the summertime and ski the vast, white terrain during winter. Heidi’s favorites are family, God’s beautiful nature, and the word whimsical.

If you would like to know more, please visit Heidi’s website. You can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads.





Thursday, February 11, 2021

Journey To A New Earth by Zeiny Sher (Book Review and Giveaway!)


Journey to a New Earth is a beautiful book featuring Penelope Panda and Kobi Koala. 

Book Details:

Book Title: Journey To A New Earth by Zeiny Sher
Illustrator: Zuzana Svobodova
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 30 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher: Zeiny Sher
Release date: Oct 30, 2020
Tour dates: Jan 25 to Feb 12, 2021
Content Rating: G

Book Description:

Penelope Panda and Kobi Koala Discover a New Earth is an exploration in preservation through connection. Penelope and Kobi are connected through life-changing events, which helps them learn how to love and preserve the earth, and how to deeply connect with each other and others along the way.


My Review:
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani

Journey to a New Earth is a beautiful book featuring Penelope Panda and Kobi Koala. Penelope wakes up to a gorgeous sunny day and shows appreciation for the light, the fresh air, the birdsong, and the leaves she eats. In the forest, she comes upon Kobi who is crying because he lost his home to a fire and he cannot find his friends. So they set out to find his friends and they meet a talking tree who tells them how we are all connected. The tree said that their journey ahead was toward a new Earth full of light and unity.

I loved the message of this book because even the Bible speaks of a new Earth where we will all live in unity forever. However, I felt the message in this book was conveyed in an abstract way and doesn't clearly mention our role in making this Earth new and what exactly is the journey.  Children will want to know what is the golden light within them that shines out. Kindness, mercy, generosity...Abstract thinking only develops later in childhood.

The sentences were also too long for this age group, making the message even more difficult to grasp. I think with developmental editing, the narration can be tighter, and this book's message clearer.

The illustrations were absolutely adorable and so visually appealing in the way they depicted nature that they were perfect for this story. The colors are vivid and bursting with life. Any child will be drawn to them and with the help of an adult will be able to understand that together we can make the Earth beautiful not only physically but with each other's good qualities toward one another.



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Meet the Author:


Zeiny Sher is a children’s book author whose journey began while writing a journal of life’s little love and connection experiences for her three-year-old daughter and one-year-old son. With a very close-knit family, Sher has always been passionate about the universal connection we all have and teaching this to the younger generation. She has coached teenage girls on self-esteem and self-worth. Sher enjoys meditation in nature, CrossFit, Safari holidays, and baking with her little ones.

You can connect with her on Instagram @zeinysher or on her website Lightenedside.com



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Ends Feb 19, 2021



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Tuesday, February 9, 2021

STOP STRESS FAST : 12 Quick, Proven Stress Relief Techniques to Help You Feel Good Everyday by Gregory Landsman (Book spotlight & Giveaway!)


More great healthy tips from Gregory Landsman, this time on learning to deal with stress quickly and efficiently.

Book Details:

Book Title: STOP STRESS FAST: 12 Quick, Proven Stress Relief Techniques to Help You Feel Good Everyday by Gregory Landsman
Category: Adult Non-Fiction, 110 pages
Genre: Stress Management Self Help; Happiness Self Help; Self Help
Publisher: Hill of Content Publishing
Release date: June 2020
Tour dates: Feb 1 to Feb 19, 2021
Content Rating: G


Book Description:

STRESS MANAGEMENT TO SUPPORT MINDFULNESS

Best selling author and wellness educator Gregory Landsman shares his quick, simple and proven method to STOP STRESS FAST and re-boot your energy.

The bite sized chapters will reveal:
• The ground breaking GL DE-STRESS & AGE LESS™ Breathing Technique that everyone can use to Stop Stress Fast (sometimes in less than 2 minutes).
• The secrets to lowering stress levels everyday with foods that support you to look younger and healthier at the same time.
• The 5-Day GL DE-STRESS & AGE LESS™ diet.
• How to counteract the wrinkle causing hormone and look younger and more vital.

“Stop Stress Fast is a highly digestible, real-world guide that brings tangible benefits to the reader very quickly. It helps us understand the science behind the approach, and it reads so easily that anyone could pick it up and within a few minutes be well on the way to implementing a number of practical and effective stress management tools.” - Psychiatrist Dr Doug Blomeley


Watch the trailer:



Picture

Check Out The Entire The 10 Years Younger Series!

The complete solution to PREMATURE AGING. The simple, effective, science-based methods in these three books give everyone the opportunity to achieve younger, healthier looking skin at any age…for next to nothing!

  • Get your skin back on track after the holidays with the most powerful anti-aging ingredients found in everyday foods.
  • Fulfill a new years resolution to look your best self at every age with simple effective methods to achieve younger, healthier looking skin that will take years off the face.
  • Spend some time nurturing yourself and take years off your face for next to nothing.
  • This new year get the same results as expensive cremes without having to leave your kitchen.
Each book stands alone, focusing on a different method to achieving younger looking skin i.e. Face Value - DIY topical treatments; Face Fitness - facial exercise; and Face Food - anti-aging foods). Together they represent the ultimate guide to younger, healthier and more vital looking skin at any age.

“With knowledge and know how we can counteract and prevent premature aging, as small changes make a big difference to the way we age over time.”
Gregory Landsman

To receive a free copy of Gregory’s e-book, STOP SKIN AGING PREMATURELY, which includes a list of the most powerful cortisol lowering foods go to: https://gregorylandsman.com/



Meet the Author:
Author Gregory Landsman


Gregory Landsman is one of the most noted global beauty and wellness experts in the world, a best selling author of nine books, and a TV host who specializes in using food to take years off the face naturally.

Having worked in the beauty industry for 30+ years Gregory believes that looking youthful goes well beyond waging war on wrinkles, and that how we age is 100% controllable. His natural methods are used globally by models, shown in universities and recommended by doctors.

Often referred to as ‘The Beauty Advisor’, Gregory’s books and global TV program Face Lifting Food show viewers how to create quick skin-boosting meals and powerful skin treatments using everyday foods to achieve younger, healthier looking skin at any age.

Gregory is a strong voice for inclusion. His book, Faith Lifting Prayers is a celebration of humanity and captures his journey of extremes; from Apartheid South Africa to working at the height of the fashion industry, and his fundamental discovery that regardless of what we do, how we look cannot be separated from how we feel. This is why all of his books, even those about looking younger, all feature his own quotes and philosophy about the importance of feeling good in our skin. His book A Lifetime of BEAUTY also shares messages for early teens and middle years about embracing our differences and our individuality; finding happiness; and standing strong in a world that often judges us for the way we look. This book is endorsed for inclusion in the education system.


Connect with the author: website ~ podcast ~ goodreads






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Ends Feb 28, 2021

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Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure by Doreen M. Cumberford (Book Spotlight & Giveaway!)


A memoir of an American family who lived as expats in Saudi Arabia in the 90s. I spotlighted this book this past summer and the author is having another tour this winter, which means another chance for you to enter the giveaway to win this book or gift cards!


Book Details:

Book Title: Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure by Doreen M. Cumberford
Category: Adult Non-Fiction, 288 pages
Genre: Memoir
Publisher: White Heather Press
Release date: April, 2020
Tour dates: Jan 25 to Feb 12, 2021
Content Rating: G. There are no offensive scenes or language

Book Description:

IN 1995, DOREEN CUMBERFORD catapulted herself into an extraordinary adventure halfway around the world. Leaving a comfortable American lifestyle, she moved to Saudi Arabia with her husband and toddler.

Instantly assaulted by culture shock, they had to quickly adapt to a complex multicultural lifestyle inside a corporate compound.

Danger was never far from their threshold, including the events of 911, the Iraq War and Saudi internal terrorism against western expats. At the same time, they discovered surprising and wonderful connections between East and West, including the charismatic lifestyles of middle-class Saudi women behind closed doors.

Doreen and her family grew to love life in the Camel Lane and discovered a growing passion for multiculturalism and global living.

However, upon returning to the US, they discovered they no longer fit into their old life. With compelling honesty, Doreen describes their most challenging journey: creating new identities as citizens of the planet. Her story provides insightful inspiration for anyone longing to embrace the world as their home.

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About the Author:



Doreen Cumberford is a Scottish native, expat, author and global traveler for more than four decades. In her 20s, Doreen joined Her Majesty's Diplomatic Service, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Her first posting was as the youngest and most junior British Embassy staffer in Cameroon, West Africa. Later, she moved back to London and took a position with an American oil-field construction company based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

After moving to America, living in Louisiana then California, (two extremely different cultures in the US,) Doreen and her family moved overseas to Japan, then spent 15 years in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With 13 major moves under her belt, she understands the value of moving, building a new life and handling inter-cultural hurdles. One constant has been her ability to explore through the lens of adventure. Her stories are full of multi-cultural intelligence, messy multilingual communications and multi-global perspectives.

Doreen is currently based in Denver, Colorado but spends most of the year living adventurously in the Housesitting Lane, which takes her around the globe. Currently she is doing her best to install Spanish in her brain, which already has French and smatterings of Japanese and Arabic. She is passionate about cultural intelligence, global-heartedness and life on the road.

Honest, compassionate and full of wisdom and inspiration, Life in the Camel Lane is comprised of stories from expats who lived in Saudi Arabia from 1950s onward. This memoir contains expert advice, sage wisdom and stories that all globally mobile families can use to navigate their international journey.

The principles in this book will also encourage anyone who wants to embrace a more adventurous life at home or is considering taking the leap and moving overseas.

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Monday, February 8, 2021

It's Me by Jeff Kubiak (Book Review and Giveaway!)


A beautiful book useful for teens and adults alike. Especially for parents and educators of tweens and teenagers. Enter today for a chance to win a copy.

Book Details:

Book Title: It's Me by Jeff Kubiak
Category: Middle-Grade Non-Fiction (Ages 8-12), 57 pages
Genre Non-fiction, Own voices
Publisher: EduMatch Publishing
Release date: November 14, 2020
Tour dates: Jan 25 to Feb 12, 2021
Content Rating: PG. Although the book reads like a graphic novel, it does contain topics dealing with racism and other social issues.

Book Description:

It's Me is dedicated to every person who has ever felt less about who they are or want to be because of someone else’s opinion, feelings, or prejudice. Let's ditch the prejudiced labeling, and embrace our Human Race for the diversity, inclusivity, equity, and individuality we all deserve.

My Review:
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani 

Teens and young adults today are struggling. With the pandemic, the situation has been exacerbated. As a mother of two bright teens, I've also seen and experienced how, sometimes, adults can miss the subtle cues that something is wrong. So reading It's Me is an eye-opening look at how tweens and teens view themselves and how the many issues they are going through affects their lives. Because as much as we think we understand, we really don't, so this kind of knowledge coupled with empathy, kindness and love are essential.

In his own words, the author has "compiled real vignettes, written by students, and educators who have been marginalized, biased, or not accepted for one reason or another". These vignettes are in the form of short poems accompanied by the name, age, and illustration of the young person telling their story. The illustrations by Canadian illustrator Briannah are perfect for this book and I think they represent teens well. She captures teens from various nationalities and different ethnic races.

I found these short vignettes powerful, every one of them. We hear the voices of kids who have ADHD, depression, PTSD, dyslexia, bulimia, low self-esteem, autism and much more. As well as kids who are introverts, immigrants, misjudged and prejudiced against. The voice of each kid is candid and sometimes heartbreaking in the way they see themselves, but they all end on a positive note about what makes them unique.

I think this book can be a great conversation starter in the classroom. Teens can write their own vignettes and share it with a classmate as part of an assignment. Then they can share with the classroom the lesson or insight learned from the other person who shared with them. These conversations are important so we learn tolerance, understanding and kindness.

A beautiful book useful for teens and adults alike. Especially for parents and educators of tweens and teenagers. Now more than ever, we need to be part of the change this world so desperately needs when it comes to diversity and equality.



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Meet the Author:


Jeff loves children's literature , “One Drop of Kindness” is Jeff's first published children's book. It's Me reads like a fun graphic novel, but it is entirely non fiction. Every character in the book is a real student, or educator. It is so important for us to give access, equity, inclusion, and compassion to all those we meet. "Seeing" each other and embracing our differences are jewels to life! Jeff taught for ten years as an elementary school teacher in grades 4, 5, and 6 and has seven years of administrative experience. He's always looked at education from a different lens: from someone who hated and struggled with school. Jeff vows to always do his best to help increase opportunities for all students to feel heard, noticed, celebrated, challenged and safe. Jeff works hard to push back against the old model of “Industrialized Education” and fight compliance. There is not a day that goes by that he is not looking ahead to improve teacher pedagogy, student engagement and digital access for all. Being a former world class swimmer and coach and looks at education from perspectives that others don’t. Jeff knows what it takes to fail, struggle, win and go through the daily challenges that we all face. Jeff is based in California and can be found at jeffkubiak.com, Twitter at @jeffreykubiak and https://jeffkubiak.blogspot.com/.

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Sunday, February 7, 2021

Sunday Post, Sunday Salon, Mailbox Monday and It's Monday What Are You Reading? Feb 7 Edition


Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba at Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share our news. A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received. Share news about what is coming up on our blog for the week ahead.


Sunday Salon hosted by Readerbuzz is simply a place for us to link up and to share what we have been doing during the week. Sunday Salon is a great way to visit other blogs and join in the conversations going on there. 

This was an exciting weekend for us. We finally got our Labradoodle puppy! She is adorably cute and my kids are over the moon. When I saw how much this pandemic is affecting my YA kids, I made the decision to get a pet to join our family. 



She is good for all of us, myself included, especially after another nurse in our team quit to stay home with her kids. Our government is forcing nurses to work fulltime, not take any vacations and to work wherever they are placed to relieve front-line nurses in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Not an easy situation.

Hope you are all well. Stay safe and take care of each other.


Mailbox Monday Edition



Mailbox Monday is the gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week. Mailbox Monday now has a permanent home on its blog. Link up to share your MM.


It's Monday! What Are You Reading? is a place to meet up and share what you have been, are and about to be reading over the week. It's a great post to organize yourself. It's an opportunity to visit and comment, and er... add to that ever-growing TBR pile! So welcome in everyone. This meme started with J Kaye's Blog and then was taken up by Sheila from Book Journey. Sheila then passed it on to Kathryn at the Book Date.


What I reviewed and/or featured last week:
 

I'm spotlighted the new release by Saurav Dutt. This sounds like a powerful read.


This is a heartwarming letter written from a dog who has died to his boy owner. 


This is a feel-good inspirational romance perfect for fans of Christian fiction.



This is a beautiful book, with a good message that comes through without being preachy. I loved both Mia and her sheep Nattie.


Arlem Hawk's debut novel is a well-written adventurous Regency-era romance set aboard a Royal Naval ship. I was captivated from the beginning right to the end!





Currently Reading in Fiction:




 



Stop by and enter my giveaways!

Also posted on the right sidebar.


Hope you all have a great reading week.



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