Review Your Book Blog

Joy

2009-06-15T13:34:00.000-07:00

Joy is knowing there was no cancer in my son's body. For the past two weeks we lived in limbo. A dr. had told us that our 31 year old son had testicular cancer. I wanted to scream and shout and fight back. But there was no one to fight. I tried to be strong for him but he was the strong one.
I cried continuously. I prayed and I praised God.

We are to Praise Him no matter the circumstances. I was praising Him and I knew He knew my tears and knew my pain.

Being a Christian does not mean there will not be pain and sorrow. It means that Jesus Christ is by ourside and guiding us through. We become stronger through our trials. I know all of that and believe it deep in my heart. Yet I hurt.

I feel as if a weight has been lifted from my shoulders. A good CAT Scan....brought me joy.
My joy runs deeper than that. Friends and family gathered together to lift us in prayer. We were anointed in oil and love and praise and prayers.

I learned a lot these last year weeks. I learned it is time for me to slow down. I learned to hold my family closer. I learned to love them deeply at all times. I learned God loves me enough to send me a message through a kind stranger and through dear friends.

I found a hymn that I claimed as my own.

My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righeousness

On Christ the solid rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand.

I will stand on the ROCK
I will hold tight to my Savior............for He lives

dg

Return of the One-Minute Mysteries and Brain Teasers: More Good Clean Puzzles for All Ages!

2009-06-11T09:26:00.000-07:00

Do you enjoy a challenge? Return of the One-Minute Mysteries and Brain Teasers: More Good Clean Puzzles for All Ages! is the book for you. Youth groups will love to stump each other on the mystery.

FreckleFace Strawberry by Julianne Moore

2009-06-10T04:52:00.000-07:00

We have a guest blogger today. Julianne Moore actress, author, an amazing woman .....please ask her questions and comments.

Freckleface Strawberry and the Dodgeball Bully by Julianne Moore

Acclaimed actress, and now beloved picture book author JULIANNE MOORE and bestselling illustrator LeUyen Pham join talents again for FRECKLEFACE STRAWBERRY AND THE DODGEBALL BULLY. This time, their perky, loveable seven-year-old encounters a bully on the playground-Windy Pants Patrick-during a game of dodgeball. As the brute prepares to hurl his might at Freckleface and her friends, she must figure out how to summon the courage to stand up to him. Ms. Moore tackles this all-to- prevalent problem with both humor and grace.

It is Ms. Moore's infusion of hilarity and heart that has won her praise from booksellers, educators, reviewers-and most importantly young readers!-for her debut picture book Freckleface Strawberry, a charming tale inspired by a childhood experience.

Nicknamed Freckleface Strawberry when she a young girl, Ms. Moore disliked the title as much as she disliked her red hair and freckles. "As a child, my hatred of my freckles was only matched by my love of reading," said the author, who eventually grew to tolerate her red hair and freckles and find amusement in telling her own kids abouther childhood nickname. Dodgeball isn't based on personal experience, but creating a feisty character who makes the best of a bad situation-and does so with style and wit-is essential to Ms. Moore.

Julianne Moore is U. S. Ambassador for Save the Children working with children and families in rural areas, focusing on literacy and early childhood education. She successfully launched the Save the Children Valentine program in 2008 whereby children's book illustrators donated art work for cards, with the proceeds benefiting poverty in the United States. She is also a member of Reach Out and Read, a children's literacy organization dedicated to educating parents on the importance of reading to their children, as well as an acclaimed actress who has appeared in such movies as The Hours, Far from Heaven, The End of the Affair, and Boogie Nights. Ms Moore was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in acting from Boston University's School of the Performing Arts. She now lives with her husband and children in New York City.

Have Your Been Royally Screwed?

2009-06-04T17:58:00.003-07:00

Have Your Been Royally Screwed?
Myron Z. Bernstein
Kambs Publishing
9780982206904
5
Debra
How to Get What You Deserve by Making People and Companies Deliver on Their Promises, Products, Goods and Services…
Have Your Been Royally Screwed? May sound like a comical title but this is a very serious topic. Most of us can answer this question with a resounding YES! Myron Z. Bernstein is a consumer advocate. Did he plan to be one…I am not sure but I don’t think so. I think he became an advocate out of necessity. Everyone needs to be an advocate. Despite the term Customer Service, few companies care about you. Their goal is to make money even if they means cheating you. Bernstein exposes the abuses and the schemes behind warranties, insurance, contractors, rebates, and a number of other consumer “services.”
The reader will be shaking their head yes while reading some of the examples in this book. Myron is sharing situations most readers have faced. The difference between most consumers and Myron is –HE FIGHTS BACK—and he WINS. I admire Bernstein’s tenacity. Have Your Been Royally Screwed? Is filled with wisdom and expertise. The next time I deal with a customer service representative I will be armed with Bernstein’s strategies and techniques.
Bernstein writes in a interesting, easy to read and understand style. I felt as though I was sitting across the table, sharing a cup of tea with a good friend as he shared his vast knowledge with me. Don’t be victim to customer service again, purchase you copy at Amazon.

How To Train A Rock

2009-06-04T17:58:00.001-07:00

How To Train A Rock
Paul Steven Stone
5 stars
9781442117211
Debra
Paul Steven Stone is a talented author. In his latest book, How To Train A Rock, he shares his insight and perspectives on a variety of topics. For approximately twenty-five years, he wrote a syndicated column, “A Stone’s Throw.” In his own words, the column was quirky. How To Train A Rock is a compilation of those columns. Most of the entries will leave you smiling and contemplating wisdom within the article; a few will leave you with tears.
Pet Peeves discusses allowing pets to leave droppings on other’s lawns. Stone discreetly points out the rudeness without personal attacks. My favorite entry was 1-800-Stomes-Throw, where he addresses the annoying trend toward automated answering services. I become so frustrated with the list of Press 1, 2, 3, 4, etc. What button do I push to talk to a real person? The Song Bird and Me is a look at happiness, with profound wisdom. “There is a part of me that wants to hold onto the things that bring me happiness; to them in my hand so they won’t fly away. However, there is also a part of me that knows you have to free all songbirds and let them fly away—if fly away they must.” His ode to little girls will touch the hearts of fathers. “Little girl there’s no need to rush into the future. There’s no one there who can’t wait a little longer.”
The reader will find deep thoughts, a unique way to look at life, and profound wisdom. How To Train a Rock is a book you want to savor. Do not rush! Read one or two a day and ponder the author’s true meaning behind each column.

Dreams Of Beauty

2009-06-04T17:57:00.002-07:00

Dreams Of Beauty
Aubrie Dionne
Publisher: SynergEbooks http://www.synergebooks.com
ISBN: 0-7743-1097-0
Tweens
Purchase:
Website:
Almost every night Emme sees the man of her dreams.
Reviewed by Lynn for ReviewYourBook.com
Almost every night Emme sees the man of her dreams. She has no idea who he is. He seems so real. Davian is trapped in Emme’s dream. He was cursed by a Sorceress a hundred years ago, destined to live in a dream until a kiss breaks the curse.
Davian’s niece, has assumed control of the Hawthorn Estate. She had a plan to get rich quick. The whole village with be disrupted if she follows through with her plan . There was only one way to stop the evile woman from destroying the village, Davian. Emme set out to rescue Davian and the village.
Dreams of Beauty is a delightful read. I was reminded of a reverse Sleeping Beauty. The characters are well developed. The plot is strong, flows smoothly and will delight teen/young adult readers.

Winter Queen - Seasons of Fantasy

2009-06-04T17:57:00.001-07:00

Winter Queen - Seasons of Fantasy
Aubrie Dionne
Publisher:
ISBN:
Sci-Fi / Fantasy
Purchase:
Website:
all good things come to an end
Reviewed by Kira for ReviewYourBook.com(17 years old)
We all have our reasons for who we are and what we do in our lives, in the past the Winter Queen had been a princess in a powerful family with all the riches of the world. Everything in her world had changed when she fell in love with a commoner, who held her heart. But all good things come to an end, her love then broke her heart into pieces with a great betrayal, which would never be healed. Now the Princess is controlling the cold winds that come across the lands and those who are in her way feel the wrath of the heart that was once whole, but now broken. To heal the coldest, most fragile heart in life all it takes is the kindest in a person’s heart.
Winter Queen by Aubrie Dionne reminds the reader that everyone has an appearance that we don’t want to show to others. We chose to show a side that everyone hates so that we wont let them get close to our hearts, and if we can never feel the pain of a loss again. Winter Queen also reminds the reader that we have to take a risk in life, every person is not the same, and that one person can heal our hearts and make something better for our lives. This story is amazing and will help people realize that with a big risk comes a great pleasure.

Dreams Of Beauty Aubrie Dionne

2009-06-04T16:57:00.001-07:00

http://bookaholic-debbie.blogspot.com/

2009-06-04T16:56:00.000-07:00

Growing Older

2009-06-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

I've learned the hard way that I don't bounce as well as I used to. I had a hard fall on Sunday. I fell at church. The steps were carpeted but they were still hard.
I caught my heel (I think) I fell down four steps. How embarrassing. I skinned my left knee and right shin. My right arm is bruised. My ego is badly bruised. After some friends picked me up I thought I was alright.
By Monday I was sore. Today is Tuesday and my muscles are tight. My bruises are starting to show and I dont feel well.

When I was younger I bounced. Age .... keeps me from bouncing.

Iris Johanson

2009-06-01T04:07:00.000-07:00

I love Iris Johanson. Well her books...I don't actually know MS Johanson. Her latest book Deadlock is an excellent read. Johanson has stretched her wings in her latest book. Her characters are cutting edge sharp. Garret has a bit of blackness in his character.
Emily was captured in Afghanistan by Staunton. He thought she knew where a Russian artifact was located. He tortured her and Levy her assistant/friend. Thanks to Garret she escaped with her life. As long as Staunton was alive she was in danger. Staunton was sadistic. He enjoyed giving others pain. He was obsessed with Emily. He would not stop until he destroyed everyone she loved while she watched helplessly.
Emily had to fight back or be destroyed. Working side by side with Garret she fought for her life.

Do not miss Deadlock

Daughters

2009-05-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

I have one daughter. I remember the day she was born. They laid her in my arms. She was tiny with a little bow mouth. A tiny nose and large dark eyes. We brought her home from the hospital and doted over her. The first time she turned over was a major event. She never did sit up. She was too busy crawling. Sitting up would have meant being still. I think that was our first hint as to her future. She never knew how to slow down. Her crawl was fast. Seeing her in her walker was like watching a tiny car zoom past. She loved her walker...it was faster than crawling. Chicken Noodle Soup was her favorite meal. If I set anything else before her she refused to eat it. She survived my ignorance and grew into a beautiful young woman.

Read Any Good Books Lately?

2009-05-28T05:07:00.000-07:00

I'm reading "Deadlock" by Iris Johanson. Wow what a book. The plot is fast paced. I'm a fan of Johanson so when I had the opportunity to review her book I screamed YES!! Johanson knows how to combine suspense, action and romance. She allows a romance to nurture, to grow and never rushes it. In "Deadlock" Emily and Levy was in Afghanistan when they was kidnapped by a Stanton, a cruel and ruthless man. Stanton wanted the Hammer of Zulov. He forced her to watch while he tortured Levy. Former CIA, Garrett rescued her. He cared for her from the moment he saw her. She wanted Stanton's death.
Would she survive? Did she love Garrett? Who was Stanton working for?

Good Morning!

2009-05-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

Much on my mind this morning. I'm moving more into the administrative part of the business and no doing as many reviews. I didn't expect this to happen when we opened RYB. I wanted to do all the reviews. The business has grown tremendously and there is more administrative work and more books.
I like administrative work so I'm ok with this. I just need to get everything organized.

Virtual Promotions

2009-05-24T20:10:00.000-07:00

Why not check out our virtual promotions.

This Memorial Day Will Always Be Remembered.

2009-05-24T20:05:00.000-07:00

We received news today that Stephanie's husband is safe. I am so thankful. I know we've all shed a few tears while we waited for information. Then I shed tears of happiness.
Stephanie is one incredible person. She is strong,and filled with peace.
I'm proud of her.

Good Morning

2009-05-23T04:30:00.000-07:00

I have a lot on my mind this morning. I'm maybe not so cheerful as usual.

Reviews

2009-05-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

I've been working hard on reviewing books. I've managed to complete several today. Prayers for Sale by Sandra Dallas is sure to be a hit!
The Color of Lightning is a fantastic read.

Good Monday Morning!

2009-05-18T05:52:00.000-07:00

I have a full day ahead of me. Book reviews, computer work, laundry all await me.
My dryer died over a week ago. I suppose I will be hanging clothes outside today. I truly enjoy hanging out clothes but I do not enjoy the stiffness when I go to wear them.

Have any of you used a Shard Steam Floor Cleaner?

Let me know if you liked it.

Book Video Promotions

2009-05-17T19:12:00.000-07:00

We are expanding again. This time into the world of video. We are excited to offer our authors the opportunity to have a video to promote their book. The video is approximately 1.5 minutes long.

Contact us for more information.

My Weekend

2009-05-17T19:06:00.000-07:00

I truly intended to post everyday on this blog. so much for good intentions. It seems like something is always coming up. I get side tracked doing other things.

I've been baby sitting with grandson Maddix a lot lately. I love doing it but it does cut into reviewing time.

I spent this weekend at LACE training. I loved it. I learned a lot and met some great people.

I hope you all had a great weekend.
Until next time.
Debra

Creating Madness

2009-05-13T19:52:00.001-07:00

I just re-read Creating Madness. It is one of those books that will stay with you. Action, adventure, danger, a "mad scientist," and intrigue, what more could a reader ask for.

2009-05-13T06:14:00.001-07:00

If you haven't heard the name WADE GAYNOR

2009-05-13T06:06:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard the name Wade Gaynor you are not a baseball fan. We went the WKU last night and watched Wade play. Wade is an amazing baseball player. However, what stands out to me is his personality and attitude. He is a generally NICE guy. He is kind to everyone.
The scouts are watching him closely. I expect he will be drafted this year.

What is a book review?

2009-05-13T05:59:00.000-07:00

A book review is a summary, critical analysis, and an evaluation on the quality, meaning, and significance of a book, not a retelling. It should focus on the book's purpose, content, and authority. A critical book review is not a book report or a summary. It is a reaction paper in which strengths and weaknesses of the material are analyzed. It should include a statement of what the author has tried to do, evaluates how well (in the opinion of the reviewer) the author has succeeded, and presents evidence to support this evaluation.

There is no right way to write a book review. Book reviews are highly personal and reflect the opinions of the reviewer. A review can be as short as 50-100 words, or as long as 1500 words, depending on the purpose of the review. http://www.lavc.edu/Library/bookreview.htm

Painting A House

2009-05-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

My husband is on vacation so he decided to paint the house. We had the place re-roofed a few weeks ago. Now the trim doesn't look right. Today he decided to paint the trim. He doesn't like the color. Now we're painting the whole outside of the house, the work shop and the barn. He rented a paint sprayer. He'd in love with it. He wants one of his own. He has ran out of paint and now we have to make a trip to Owensboro for more.
He's so funny.

The Books Are Rolling In

2009-05-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

We have already received 65 books to review this month. Thanks to all of you RYB is growing. We are excited that so many authors and publishers like our service. We are looking for a few dependable reviewers. If you are interested please email me. debra@reviewyourbook.com

EveryDay Happenings by Stephanie Rollins

2009-05-11T07:26:00.000-07:00

Inflatable slides
My main goal today is to rent an inflatable water slide for this weekend. Sounds simple, but it is not. I am to the point of just investing in one and renting it out. There must be a demand. Any suggestions?

May 11, 2009

2009-05-11T04:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Mother's Day. My day was very special. One son and his family came for dinner. Another was on vacation but called twice to tell me how much I meant to him. I received a delightful message from my daughter.

I know I'm proud of each of my children. Not for what they have accomplished but for what they are inside. They are good people. When I look at them I see kindness and compassion. I like my children as well as love them.

I spent sometime yesterday thinking of my own mother. Perhaps I've been too critical at times. After all if I can admit I am not perfect how can and why should I demand perfection from her. We are each a product of our childhood. We of course shape our own future but those past influences will always be there.

Share something about your Mother's Day.....

The First Post

2009-05-10T18:52:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm Debra Gaynor, co-owner of ReviewYourBook.com. This is our first post on our new blog. I've been asking myself what I should write about. I'm still not sure so maybe I'll just ramble a little bit.

I love to read. I still remember the first grade, sitting in a reading group, listening to my classmates read. I was always jumping ahead. I could read so much faster to myself. The teacher though I was having trouble reading. Little did she know I was just impatient.
I soon moved on the Nancy Drew books. I read all I could get my hands on. After that it was Emily Loring and Phyllis Whitney. I'm not sure too many will remember either author.
I still enjoy reading. I have favorite authors, Iris Johanson, Bertrice Small, Elizabeth Peters, Robin Cook, Dean Koontz..... I could keep going. Since we began a review company I have come to appreciate a lot of new authors.

Unknown authors desire a chance. With a little encouragement many can go far. They may be just as good as the author on a best selling list. They just haven't caught the eye of a publisher.

My favorite genres are romance, suspense, mystery, historical fiction based on fact. However, I have expanded my horizons. I read almost anything and find that I enjoy it.

I hope you will share with me what you enjoy reading.

Until next time....this is Debra Gaynor