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Friday, 31 October 2008
Midnight Hours by Vivian Zabel--A Review
Topic: Book Review

One by one, disabled men find a friend in Midnight.  The picture they receive has them captivated and they fall for the luscious beauty. One by one, each man meets with death-and one woman collects each and every insurance policy.  Now, injured police officer Martin has met Midnight.  He has her number though and it is a race to see who will win.  Will Midnight finally be caught or will yet another man meet his final destiny?

Vivian Zabel has woven a psychological thriller that will have everyone who uses a computer wondering just who is connected with the name and face on the other end.  Her knowledge of the inner workings of both the detective and killer minds is incredible. The characters were very well developed and dialog true-to-life. 

Skillfully woven clues will lead you through this story, giving you a chance to discover Midnight's identity as the detectives do.  I found myself so involved in the book that I read for several hours straight, something I rarely do.  Ms. Zabel's writing flows smoothly, yet at a pace that keeps pulling you forward.  This is definitely a "just one more chapter" book.The ending leaves you satisfied-yet anticipating. This is a combination found rarely in today's mysteries of cut-and-dried endings.  I was pleasantly surprised that there is still an author out there that leaves me actually hoping for a sequel. 

This is one mystery I would not hesitate at all in recommending. 

***

For more stops on this blog tour, please visit the following:

Oct. 31 Aidana WillowRaven http://coverchatter.blogspot.com
Joyce Anthony https://joyceanthony.tripod.com/blog

Nov. 1 Crystalee Calderwood http://crystaleecalderwood.blogspot.com

Nov. 2 Vivian Zabel http://vzabel.multiply.com/journal and http://VivianZabel.blogspot.com

and don't forget the contest:

Prize: $25 gift certificate from Amazon.com

Rules:
1. Each person who comments on a blog stop receives one entry. For example, if a person leaves a comment on four blog stops, he has four entries.

2. Each person who purchases a copy of Midnight Hours from the 4RV Store (http://4rvpublishingllc.com/Store.html) or directly from the author receives fifteen (15) entries per purchase. Since we cannot receive notification from other places in time, we need people to use the publisher's store.

A person may have entries from a purchase and from leaving comments.

An email address will be needed to notify the winner and to send the gift certificate.

November 5, a random drawing will be held using a program online to choose a winner. I will notify the winner by email and will post the result on my blogs at Vivian's Site and Brain Cells & Bubble Wrap.

Everyone who comments and/or purchases a book needs to sent an email to president@4rvpublishingllc.com  with the answer to the question,"When does Midnight meet Martin on the online game site?"

The email with the correct answer validates the entries


Posted by joyceanthony at 5:57 AM EDT
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Thursday, 23 October 2008
The Forbidden Daughter by -Shobhan Bantwal-A Review
Topic: Book Review

When Isha finds out the baby she is carrying is a girl, she fears the reaction of her in-laws.  Girl children are not acceptable in their eyes, or that of the doctor, who suggests she have an abortion rather than give birth to the a second female child.  When Isha refuses, she has little idea just how drastically her life is about to change. Just how far will some people go to see that Isha does not "disgrace" her in-laws name? Who all is involved and why has nothing been done to stop the selective abortions that are taking place regularly?  Can Isha make it on her own?  Will her efforts to expose the truth result in her losing everything she lives for?  Who can she trust with her secret, life and heart?

Shobhan Bantwal takes her readers into a world most of us can't even imagine.  I continually had to remind myself that this story was not taking place in some long ago dark age, but instead in modern times.  It tore at my heart to know that in some parts of the world, female children are still considered unwelcome--to the point of actually being killed rather than loved and cherished as they should be.

It is obvious that Shoban Bantwal knows her subject and the country of which she writes.  She doesn't pad the pages with a lot of fluff, but instead uses every word to draw her reader in--and make them care for her characters.  The only thing that kept me from reading this book in one sitting was my eyes giving out--but I found myself dreaming of the characters.  Before I finished, I had not only cried, but  found myself angry and wishing I knew how to stop this archaic practice.

You can't read The Forbidden Daughter with no emotion.  It is considered women's fiction, but I would suggest any man who cares also read it--he won't be disappointed by the depth explored by Ms. Bantwal.  I can see this book being made into a movie.


Posted by joyceanthony at 5:57 AM EDT
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Sunday, 5 October 2008
Trockle Wants You to Win!!!
Topic: Book Review
Not long ago, I had the wonderful opportunity to interview Trockle, the little monster that lives under Steven's bed.  This is Trockle:


I had the chance to read Trockle's story, written by Holly Jahangiri. Here is the wonderful cover, created by Jordan Vinyard (she does all the illustrations for the book):

Trockle is a book I wish had been around when my son was younger.  I tried monster stay-away, songs, funny stories, music--but the monsters came back night after night.  This book, written in a fresh style shows how much Trockle and Steven are alike.  Knowing that the monsters living under the bed like Choco-Tacos and sleep in dirty socks is sure to make even the most nervous child and fall asleep unafraid. 

Holly Jahangiri writes with a true understanding of what children can relate to.  Her wonderful imagination brings to life one of the most precious monsters I have ever known.  Ms. Vinyard does an excellent job bringing Trockle to life in pictures.  These two women have a way of bringing out the best in each other.  I look forward to more of their work.

For anyone with children or grandchildren, this is a must-have addition to your bedtime story collection.  It is destined to become a classic among children's picture books.

This fine-looking monstress (is that a word?)to the left is Trockle's mom.  She is the one who helped Trockle understand who the monster above his bed was so he could feel safe.  She wanted me to let you know about some free gifts you can get by simply leaving Trockle or her a question in the comment section.  She also wants me to announce a contest, so here goes:

Everyone who leaves a question or comment for Trockle or his mom (and an email address) will receive both a book of pumpkin-carving templates and a book of Halloween coloring sheets to print out.

In addition, here is a contest you won't want to miss:

Grand Prize: A customized Halloween short story featuring your child (or grandchild, niece, nephew, or friend) with Trockle - written by Holly Jahangiri and illustrated by Jordan Vinyard.

Second Prize:

 A $20 gift certificate to Amazon.com.

To enter, complete the following steps:

(1) Purchase a copy of Trockle directly from 4RV Publishing http://www.4rvpublishingllc.com/Store   between 12:00 AM October 5 and 11:59 PM October 13,

and

(2) Send an email to president@4rvpublishingllc.com with your answer to the question posted at http://jahangiri.us/trockle-promo.html.

You may enter as often as you like, but all completed entries must be received before midnight on October 13!

Winners will be announced at http://blog.jahangiri.us and at http://www.4rvpublishingllc.com.

The winners will be chosen randomly from all correctly completed entries (see "To enter" above) and winners will be notified by email.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Grand Prize winner will need to work directly with the author and illustrator to create a memorable gift for that special child. To include the child's likeness in the illustration, you will need to provide a digital photo upon notification that you have won. Every effort will be made to deliver the prize prior to Halloween, but circumstances beyond our control may prevent that and we do not guarantee that it will arrive  by October 31.

Please return tomorrow to find out where else Trockle will be visiting--every stop you visit gives you another chance to find out the answer to the contest question!  You will also want to come by and see what Trockle and his Mom have to say to your questions!!!

Posted by joyceanthony at 5:57 AM EDT
Updated: Sunday, 5 October 2008 7:44 PM EDT
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Saturday, 16 August 2008
The Enemy Between My Legs by Stephanie L. Jones -- A Review
Topic: Book Review

In a perfect world, no child should have to suffer the pain of sexual abuse.  Unfortunately, our world is far from perfect; one of every three females and one of every five males has been a victim of childhood sexual abuse.  Often this abuse is at the hands of the very people responsible for a child's safety--parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts. 

Stephanie L. Jones was herself a victim of childhood sexual abuse.  In her book, The Enemy Between My Legs, Ms. Jones relates her story.  She then continues on to share details of what occurs in the aftermath of such abuse.  In a no-nonsense language, Stephanie Jones details the varied reactions of those who were victimized.  She tells readers how they can help keep their own children safe. 

Finally, Ms.  Jones shares with readers how she overcame the pain of her early abuse, and was able to forgive those who violated her.  She shares how her love of God has enabled her to move past the pain and learn to love herself.

What struck me the most about this book is the no-nonsense way in which Stephanie L. Jones reveals some surprising reasons why some children don't tell when they are being abused.  Unlike many books that portray child molestors as the dirty old man down the street, Ms. Jones tells how some molestors are children themselves.  She points out the stark realities without malice or blame. 

When you finish The Enemy Between My Legs you will view those around you with a different outlook.  You will more easily recognize a child who needs help and, for those who have been victimized, you will feel a new hope within that your soul can be healed.  This is a must-read for anyone who has a child in their life.

For more information on The Enemy Between My Legs, or to purchase a copy, visit http://www.amazon.com/Enemy-Between-My-Legs/dp/097945560X


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:03 AM EDT
Updated: Saturday, 16 August 2008 3:07 AM EDT
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Friday, 15 August 2008
Wai-Nani by Linda Ballou--A Review
Topic: Book Review

Wai-Nani is like no other book I have ever read.  Linda Ballou is a master of language, pulling the reader in and evoking emotions hidden deep within. Her imagery is breathtaking, allowing your senses to experience the entire story.

Passionate and primal, Wai-Nani transports you to the early days of Hawaii, where warriors ruled and women were expected to know their place.

Wai-Nani refuses to be bound by the shakles of society and follows her heart--finding a destiny beyond her wildest dreams. Follow her--no, join her--on this incredible journey.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Friday, 15 August 2008 5:41 AM EDT
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Wednesday, 13 August 2008
Transforming Power -- A Review
Topic: Book Review

Transforming Power, was compiled to help today's leaders learn how to be the best possible leaders they can be.  It includes essays from some of the most inspiring leaders today. 

As I read through the essays that Hugh Ballou compiled, it struck me how different each leader thinks--yet how alike.  The sense of faith among these leaders is apparent throughout, yet the book is not a bit preachy.  If I had to use one word for this book, it would be "empowering". 

By the time I had read the last page, I felt confident that I too could be a transformational leader.  As you read the words within Transforming Power, you will get the feeling you are face-to-face with some of today's most inspirational leaders--and you got an inside track to all their secrets.

I dare anyone to read this book and not gain anything from it--I don't believe that is possible.

***

A SPECIAL BONUS TO EACH PERSON WHO PURCHASES TRANSFORMING POWER TODAY – Hugh Ballou has compiled a list of great FREE bonus gifts for anyone who purchases Transforming Power today. To see a sample of the items that are being given away, visit http://www.transforming-power.com. Just buy a copy of Transforming Power, return to this page and click to submit your invoice number to receive the web page link to download all of these gifts for FREE.


Posted by joyceanthony at 9:54 AM EDT
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Friday, 8 August 2008
Vietnam Air Rescues by Dave Richardson--A Review
Topic: Book Review

Dave Richardson set out to leave a record of his time in Vietnam for his sons.  Vietnam Air Rescues is the result of that endeavor.  It has, however, been made available for everyone, so that we might see what it was like to fly air rescue in the jungles of Vietnam.

Mr. Richardson has created an account detailing not only seven rescues he took part in, but also his view of the Vietnam War.  His down-to-earth writing style enables to envision the living and working conditions during this time period.  The details are related in a no nonsense style that relates the details without embellishment.  Mr. Richardson describes the events as he experienced them. 

While I would have liked to see more emotion in the relating, I can't say I was a bit disappointed, as Dave Richardson includes plenty of the smaller details that bring the scene to life.  These details, along with photographs taken by Mr. Richardson, will draw you into this book and keep you turning the pages.

For anyone who has an interest in history or the Vietnam War in particular, this is a must-read.  It isn't often we come across positive stories of this period in our history.  While so many have kept their memories hidden within, Mr. Richardson shares his freely, giving us a glimpse into how faith can bring a person through even the most horrifying of times.


Posted by joyceanthony at 5:21 AM EDT
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Thursday, 10 July 2008
The President's Parasite and Other Stories by Jim Musgrave--A Review
Topic: Book Review

Jim Musgrave has a unique style unlike anything I have ever read.  His short stories pack a great deal of meaning in a few words.  I found myself stopping, re-reading and questioning my ideas.  This book of stories includes something for everyone--they vary so greatly.  The one constant is their ability to take conventional "norms" and make the the reader think about them.

 As a writer, jim Musgrave has the ability to bring both his scenes and his characters right into your living room.  You know these people--you are these people.  For readers looking for an escape from reality, this may be what your are looking for--then again, you will also question what reality is--what you know, or what you are reading.

I look forward to reading more of Jim's work.


Posted by joyceanthony at 2:51 PM EDT
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Saturday, 28 June 2008
Death Masks by Kim Richards --A Review
Topic: Book Review

Death Masks by author Kim Richards, is a thriller that captures your attention and keeps you in suspense to the end.

Someone or something is attacking and killing young men in the park.  Bill, your average computer tech decides to play amateur investigator and figure out the mystery.  In the meantime, the local police think he has something to do with the disappearances.  Can Bill find out who or what is killing people and burying them alive before he becomes the next victim? 

I found Ms. Richard's writing concise and to the point.  She wastes no words, each one leading the story further and deepening both the suspense and intrigue.

If you are looking for a book full of gory details that keep you awake at night, this isn't it.  What it is, however, is  a tale of intrigue and suspense that will keep you wondering until the very end with its false leads and almost paranormal feel.  One clue--the one committing the murders is very much alive and waiting in the bushes.


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:42 PM EDT
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Wednesday, 25 June 2008
Valentine by Jamieson Wolf--A Review
Topic: Book Review

Valentine, the latest release from author Jamieson Wolf is everything a love story should be.  It contains passion, betrayal, passion, heartbreak, renewal of trust and did I say passion--along with a happy ending of lasting love. 

As a m/m erotic tale, Valentine isn't for everyone; but Jamieson Wolf writes with some of the strongest emotion I have found in ages.  His passion is reminiscent of that seen in the works of Shakespeare and others of that time period.  His characters love deeply and without restraint, overcoming every obstacle placed before them. This is truly a tale for all those who believe love has no boundaries.

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:16 AM EDT
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