Friday, May 22, 2015

Review of "In Firefly Valley" by Amanda Cabot

Book 2 in the Texas Crossroads series, this installment continues with a focus on Marisa St. George, the daughter of Cook Carmen from Rainbow's End resort. In somewhat of a career crisis, she comes to work at the resort as well, and quickly meets undercover author Blake Kendall. He has a major case of writer's block and is a long term guest at the resort in an attempt to find his purpose. They are drawn together but challenges quickly arise..... will they be able to find happiness, together?

Although there were parts of this story I enjoyed, I had a difficult time finding affection for Marisa's character. Absolutely my opinion, but she was not especially likeable. I realize that conflict is needed for a book to be realistic, but I struggled to root for her. I would, however, encourage you to read it for yourself - and see what you think!

I received this book from Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Sunday, May 17, 2015

Review of "As Love Blooms" by Lorna Seilstad

Book three of "The Gregory Sisters" trilogy, this installment focuses on the youngest sister, whirlwind Tessa. Recently and unfairly expelled (but unwilling to share that information with anyone she loves) from the university where she has been studying horticulture, Tessa attempts to get a job designing gardens at the very prestigious local park. Although she is very gifted, the park superintendent is unwilling to hire her. She conspires with gardener Reese King - who is a hard worker but believes he lacks the artistry Tessa exudes. Together, they use Tessa's designs paired with Reese's assignment to create a special garden, to help Reese win a promotion.

Aunt Sam continues to fight for women's suffrage, and Tessa's older sisters have their own challenges. Through it all they discover a deeper meaning of conviction and the important role that deep honesty plays in any relationship.

I have not read the first two books in this series, and could still enjoy this one. However, I truly enjoyed it enough that I will go back and read the first two! A fun, lighthearted romance with a deeper meaning along with a little mystery, I can easily recommend this book.

I was given this book by Revell for my honest review.

Friday, May 8, 2015

Review of "No Place to Hide" by Lynette Eason

The third book in her "Hidden Identity" series, this story focuses on the plight of Ian Lockwood, who works at Wainwright Labs and is accused of plotting bio-terrorism. He is helped by longtime friend, Jackie Sellers, a former police officer with very specialized skills. From the first chapter they are on the run and the author does not let up the pace until the very end.

Taking the viewpoint of a number of different characters throughout the book, this story grabbed my attention, was well paced, and has an ending that was not predictable. I recommend this book for anyone who likes a good action and mystery novel.

I was given a copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

Friday, May 1, 2015

Review of "How to Get Dressed" by Alison Freer

What a GREAT concept for a book! Costume Designer Alison Freer has written a manual for shopping, a manual for your closet, a manual on clothing care....the list goes on and on. With a sense of humor throughout, she teaches how to store your clothes, find a tailor, and even great closet hacks. I really can't say enough good things about this book. Beautifully designed and chock full of helpful information, this is an important must have for anyone with....clothes.

I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.


How to Get Dressed