Teens and Reading

I loved this article. I’d also like to hear from my own readers. Do these girls have it right? Is there more to add?

I know some great teenage girls who are smart, funny, bright, and generally pretty amazing. I contacted these teens, one who just completed her HSC last year, and the other who is in year eleven, and asked them to talk to their friends about books.

I brought them the below questions:

Why don’t teens read very much, and what is preventing them from reading?

Miss 16: There’s not enough time anymore to fit it in with homework, extracurricular activities etc. Books are expensive, they’re big and they’re bulky. It’s difficult to find anything that is interesting, and everything feels the same and cliche.

I’m very rapidly getting sick of the good girl falls in love with the bad boy story, and all the modern dystopian love stories. I will always and forever love period dramas and fractured fairytales.

Miss 18: Senior school English. Enough said. Prescribed text. The groans of agony…

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Audiobook Review: DRAGON ROSE by Christine Pope

Do you like take-offs of fairy tales with dragons and mage curses which can’t be broken?  Christine Pope has written a series which will sure to delight.  I so enjoyed the audiobook of Dragon Rose, narrated by Valerie Gilbert in first person.

Title: Dragon Rose Tales of the Latter Kingdoms, book 2
Author: Christine Pope
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Historical
Pages: 278
Published by: Dark Valentine Press
Published Date: November 14, 2012
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc. ASIN: B00A81XPX0

Narrated by: Valerie Gilbert
Length: 7 hours, 50 minutes
Release Date: September 10, 2013
Published by: Dark Valentine Press

The Latter Kingdoms Series (purchase ecopy links):
All Fall Down
Dragon Rose
Binding Spell
Ashes of Roses
One Thousand Nights
Threads of Gold
The Wolf of Harrow Hall (coming soon)

Publisher’s Summary: The shadow of the cursed Dragon Lord has hung over the town of Lirinsholme for centuries, and no one ever knows when the Dragon will claim his next doomed bride. Rhianne Menyon has dreams of being a painter, but her world changes forever when a single moment of sacrifice brings her to Black’s Keep as the Dragon’s latest bride.

As she attempts to adjust to her new life – and to know something of the monster who is now her husband – she begins to see that the curse is far crueler than she first believed. Unraveling the mystery of what happened to the Dragon’s brides is only the beginning…

©2012 Christine Pope (P)2013 Christine Pope

My Thoughts: This is my first adventure with author Christine Pope. Dragon Rose is written in first person which is a difficult voice to write. Valerie Gilbert, as narrator, was a great choice for she truly conveyed the emotional upheaval Rhianne experienced when she chose to take the place of her best friend and marry Theran Blackmoor, the dragon of Black’s Keep. Ms. Gilbert is the reason I picked this book to listen to in the first place. She has a great presence and entirely engulfed me in the author’s world.

Rhianne was unique. She had two gifts. As a ‘seerer’ she was haunted with dreams, difficult to forget. She also had a love of nature and the ability to paint, something she learned from an elderly painter and an occupation she should not follow. With this skill she worked through her dreams and fell in love with her painting of the man in her dreams. Little did she know how important this skill would be for her very life!

This tale reminds me of Beauty and the Beast. A mage spell kept Theran in dragon form. He was obliged to marry young girls from the nearby village – if he didn’t the curse would manifest itself by destroying more lives. Theran was reduced to marrying even though he knew the fate of these young women. 500 years of marrying and still the curse continued. Would there be no end? Could Rhianne save her dragon whom she’d come to love? Could she save herself?

Plenty of suspense and danger. The story was riveting, yet very much a fairy tale. I’m thoroughly delighted to find another author who writes fantasy with romance inclinations. And writes so well! Recommended highly for those who love fairy tale plots with just enough twist to keep the reader guessing.

About the Author: A native of Southern California, Christine Pope has been writing stories ever since she commandeered her family’s Smith-Corona typewriter back in the sixth grade. Her short fiction has appeared in Astonishing Adventures, Luna Station Quarterly, and the journal of dark fiction, Dark Valentine. Two of her short stories have been nominated for the Pushcart Prize. Christine writes as the mood takes her, and her work encompasses paranormal romance, fantasy romance, and space opera/science fiction romance. She blames this on being easily distracted by bright, shiny objects, which could also account for the size of her shoe collection. She fell in love with Sedona, Arizona, while researching the Sedona Files series and now makes her home there, surrounded by the red rocks. No alien sightings, though…not yet, anyway! To be notified of new releases, you can sign up for Christine Pope’s newsletter here: https://app.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/d2c6e2

About the Narrator: Valerie Gilbert is a native New Yorker. A background in acting (plays, comedies, musicals) morphed over time into solo work, including stand-up comedy, autobiographical one woman shows, and storytelling competitions. The transition was then made to writing. As a result, Raving Violet, Memories, Dreams & Deflections: My Odyssey Through Emotional Indigestion, and her latest, Swami Soup, were published.

Her writing is non-fiction, intensely personal, with a focus on philosophy, personal growth, and metaphysics, all with liberal doses of humor, her trademark. Yet another avenue of expression became available to her when she started producing her own audio books, first, Raving Violet, then 67 for other authors, as well as her own Memories, Dreams & Deflections and Swami Soup.

Valerie now teaches psychic development and personal growth classes at Namaste Healing Center in New York City. She is currently writing her fourth book. Her website is Raving Violet.

 

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Audiobook Review: THE WEAVER TAKES A WIFE by Sheri Cobb South

Title: The Weaver Takes a Wife
Author: Sheri Cobb South
Genre: Regency Romance, clean read
Pages: 268
Published by: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 2 edition
Published Date: January 2, 2014
ISBN-10: 1492261211
ISBN-13: 978-1492261216

Narrated by: Noah Michael Levine
Length: 5 hours, 29 minutes
Released Date: February 5, 2015
Published by: Sheri Cobb South

Publisher’s Summary: Haughty Lady Helen Radney is one of London’s most beautiful women, and the daughter of a duke, but her sharp tongue has frightened away most of her suitors. When her father gambles away his fortune, the duke’s only chance for recouping his losses lies in marrying off Lady Helen to any man wealthy enough to take a bride with nothing to recommend her but a lovely face and an 800-year-old pedigree.

Enter Mr. Ethan Brundy: once an illegitimate workhouse orphan, now owner of a Lancashire textile mill and one of England’s richest men. When he glimpses Lady Helen at Covent Garden Theatre, he is instantly smitten and vows to marry her. But this commonest of commoners will have his work cut out for him if he hopes to win the heart of his aristocratic bride.

©2014 Sheri Cobb South (P)2015 Sheri Cobb South

My Thoughts: This book was first published in 1999, republished last year with the audio produced at the beginning of this year. It’s satisfying to me to see books being republished and produced in audio. With excellent narrators who know how to tell a good story, it virtually is brought to life.

I enjoyed listening to the introduction to the book by Mary Balogh, giving a good inkling of what was to come while leaving us a few teasers. This story is told with a bit of humor, because frankly, it is a quite humorous situation. Well, not for Lady Helen, nor for Ethan Brundy. It was humorous to this reader to watch the development of a marriage with such peculiar circumstances. How could it possibly be successful?

The hero is neither dashing, debonair, or a rude, intelligent type you find in most Regencies. This hero, Ethan Brundy, is a man honed by his circumstances, hard work, his wits and a stroke of luck when he was taken from the workhouse for orphans to work for a weaver. The hard knocks of life have taught him to go after what he wants. And go after he did, with impossible odds.

When he spied the Lady Helen at a theatre, he knows he must meet her, so has his friend introduce him to the lady. Unfortunately, Ethan never lost his accent which marks him as part of the common, poor folk. His attire, nevertheless clean and of quality, only made people of the ton scoff behind his back. But Ethan has many redeeming qualities, among them are determination, kindness, understanding and patience. Whether or not Lady Helen is sweet or a harpy, he could not take his eyes from her and she was his goal. Ethan Brundy was smitten with cupid’s arrow. But perhaps it would end being more of a dagger!

Lady Helen is a person who knows how to cut people, whose acid tongue and demeanor keep more would-be suitors away, all except those who like the challenge. Her father, a duke, must marry her off, for more reason than to remove the huge amount of money it takes to house her. If her father were completely honest, it really is because of his great loss at cards, a debt now impossible to pay. If something is not done, well they would be simply ruined. His commodity is his daughter.

Ethan approaches Lady Helen’s father asking for her hand. Ludicrous as it seems, once her father checks his credentials and financial capabilities and learns Ethan will pay him a dowry of sorts, versus asking more for taking his daughter, he gives his daughter a choice – to work as a governess or marry, that is, marry Ethan Brundy.

Even after they marry, Lady Helen seeks the balls, the attention of men and one in particular, a Lord Waverly. But Waverly is rather a snake hoping to soil what Ethan won.

Ethan wants her heart, for he was smitten from the first moment he saw her. This simple man won my heart early in the listen. Ethan learns to woo his wife, being such a simple man, it took real resolve and courage to parade in front of the ton. There were so many times she cut him down. So I fell in love with Ethan long before I had any soft feelings for his caustic wife.

The narrator with energy told this delightful Regency with a voice perfect for Ethan Brundy. I saw him clearly in my mind. He encapsulates Ethan’s humble nature, with his lower class accent dropping the h from the word. Lady Helen sounded like a cold fish, although in her inner thoughts she sounded desperate and most of her haughtiness was fear of her husband and the marriage bed and a way to protect herself from the unknown. As her understanding of her husband changes, so, too, we hear the true Lady Helen a woman changed by love.

If you fall in love with Ethan Brandy, be happy! Ms. South has written a trilogy continuing the story of the Brundy’s. The second book is Brighton Honeymoon and lastly Lord Waverly, villain from book one, stars in French Leave.

I intend to continue reading the series and highly recommend this unique story, A Weaver Takes a Wife.

About the Author: I am the author of fifteen novels, ranging in genre from regency to mystery to young adult to Christian fiction. I began my career writing teen romance for Bantam’s Sweet Dreams series. When that series was cancelled in 1995, I began writing for adults. I’ve always enjoyed the books of Georgette Heyer, so it was only natural that I should turn to the Regency genre. I love writing (and reading!) books with humor, clever dialogue, and romance. Because my books have no “on-stage” sex scenes, they can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.  My works have been translated into Polish, Chinese, Dutch, French, and Norwegian. They have appeared in large-print editions and have been recorded by the U. S. Library of Congress as part of their Books for the Blind program. A native and longtime resident of Alabama, I recently moved to Colorado with my husband of over 30 years. We enjoy the proximity to the Rocky Mountains and the elk that occasionally wander through our neighborhood, but I still speak with a pronounced Southern drawl!

About the Narrator: Actor

Noah Michael Levine (born January 12, 1962 in Nyack, New York), is an actor, screenwriter and film producer. Levine, a Jewish American, has performed on stage and screen in New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco… wikipedia.org

Audiobook Review: BLACK SAM PRINCE OF PIRATES

How does one make a match work when the man and woman are not of the same station? Can parents be convinced? Sam Bellamy found the answer. He needed money and lots of it. This would even out the difference. With heart in hand and hers replacing his in this chest, he seeks his good fortune on the high-seas. He finds more than treasure. He finds friends, honor and respect.

Title:  Black Sam: Prince of Pirates
Author: James Lewis
Genre: Historical Fiction (sea action adventure, romance)
Pages: 313
Published by: Smoke N Oakum
Published Date: January 4, 2014
ASIN: B00BIPDA9O

Narrated by: Alex Hyde-White, Roy Dotrice, Scott Brick, Stefan Rudnicki, William Dufris, Jayne Entwistle, Simon Vance, R.C. Bray… (over 40 different narrators)Length: 10 hours, 54 minutes
Release Date: March 31, 2015
Published By: Smoke N Oakum

About the Story: The War of Spanish Succession is over, many sailors are out of work, and the thriving American colonies are quickly becoming the place of opportunity. For Sam Bellamy, it was the opportunity of becoming the captain of his own ship.  When he falls in love with a rebellious New England debutante, he finds out very quickly that he needs more than a dream to win over her socialite parents. After a failed treasure salvaging expedition, Sam makes one last desperate attempt to change his economic standing, and unwittingly becomes the Captain of the Pirate ship ‘Mary Anne’.  As a self proclaimed “Free Prince” Sam wages war on greedy merchantmen, slave traders, and Mother Nature, in a bid not only for the love of his life, but for life itself.

My Thoughts:  Plenty of action and adventure in this quick-paced listen. The author drops us into the moments of a terrible sea storm Sam Bellamy thinks are his last.  He quickly pens a note to Maria, puts it into a bottle.  Virtually, he is saying goodbye.  A few of the crew wash ashore alive, he is among them. Most were dead.   But the crew has a plan and they stick to it.  The reader/listener is not privy to it however.

The story shifts to how Sam meets Maria and his decision to go to sea, selecting his crew, etc.  We learn early on in the story that Sam is special.  He tries to save a man and wife, slaves to a nasty man whom we’ll meet again in the story.  The woman gets shot.  He helps the run-away slave, giving him coin.

One would think a man, known as a pirate, would be only interested in his self-worth, but Black Sam was a pirate of much honor.  He in his own way, fought for the less fortunate while his conscience prodded him forward and his courage saw him through.

Maria Hallet came from a family who was very respectable– a family who made their money as merchants. They were well esteemed within the community.  Her family wanted her to marry well, and Sam Bellamy was not the man for their daughter.  Maria was quite beautiful, but didn’t want to be a conventional woman.  She had a very adventurous spirit, very much a kindred soul to the man she was soon to fall in love with.

Sam met her one afternoon.  She was sitting under a tree reading.  He was entranced at first sight, spoke a few words with her in a semi-flirtatious tone.  Sam was eager to know who this girl was and had not long to wait. It appears Maria felt much the same way. He met her in one of her father’s many shops. Knowing their relationship could not continue since he knew he needed money to show her parents his worth, he left Cape Cod, promising to come back after six months.  He was on a mission.

At the time that Sam was getting to know Maria, she had a suitor, Captain Swiney, most favored by Maria’s parents.  Captain Swiney did not have any scruples whatsoever to rid himself of Sam because he saw Maria was interested.  While Sam endeavors to mass a fortune for his lady love, Captain Swiney crosses his path several times, always during some mischief or other.

Sam not only has to fight Swiney, he makes enemies of pirates along the way, who seem to appear at the worst times.  By association, he becomes a pirate, although he was always generous with the crews of the ships he captured.  Sam’s love to Maria is tested, he gains respect and love from his crew, but he is much too long away from Maria, more than six months as he promised her.  Will she wait for him?

I truly enjoyed this tale of the high seas.  The narration was interesting for there were many people who played various characters.  All in all the narration was fine.  Only one remark, however.  If each individual’s voice volume and proximity to the mike had been more consistently the same, it would have been a smoother listen. As it was, I noticed the change and lost some of my focus on the actual words spoken.

The author took a known figure in history, Sam Bellamy, known as Black Sam, and around certain events created quite an adventure for readers/listeners to enjoy. I hope once you read or listen to this story, you’ll do a little research of your own about this historical figure.

I always enjoy stories at sea, particularly those sea voyages that nature itself is your foe. During this period of history, early 1700’s, life on the high seas was dangerous, not only because of the weather, but the ships that might appear beyond your bow or stern.  Are they friend or foe?  With so many ships which raise and lower different flags, there is no guarantee that the ship approaching is really what they say they are.

I’m hopeful there is a sequel to this great story!

About the Author: As a fiction author who gets bored rather quickly, I bounce around several different genres. Basically I fall in love with a character, setting, or idea, and I go for it.

When I get to the point where my hands lie frigidly still on my keyboard, I change it up and write in one of my other stories. That way I don’t get anything done. It’s perfect. I come from a large family, I have four brothers and nine sisters. It’s not a typo I have nine sisters! By shear force of numbers I was made to watch shows like Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and Anne of Green Gables. I suppose if you were looking for a reason I’m attracted to stories with romantic elements, that would be it.
Growing up with nine sisters, and being the only male member of an amazing writing group I’ve learned many things, most of which I can’t tell you. But what I can say is that women make men better human beings, and I feel fortunate to know so many good ones.

Note From the Author:  I first learned about Samuel Bellamy while watching a documentary about Barry Clifford, the man who found his sunken ship, The Whydah Gally. Of course pirates are always fascinating people, but it was the possible love story between Sam and Maria Hallet that peaked my interest. It is a sort of Braveheart at sea kind of story, a man both disillusioned by corrupt governments, and inspired by the love of his life. Turning to piracy not only to claim his freedoms from those that would oppress, but to win the heart of his love.  Of course whether or not he even had a lover in Cape Cod has been considered a matter of folklore, as can many other stories told about Sam.

Nevertheless, the facts surrounding Sam’s life are compelling. These facts bolstered by folkloric stories and creative license to fill in the holes can create a fantastic tale. This is my hope.  I made a conscious choice when writing this book, not to delve into great detail concerning the violent, and sexual deeds that were likely common to one living a life of rebellion. Holding instead to the core aspects that make up this charming adventure, making it fit for all ages to read. Thank you for your interest in my book, I hope you enjoy it. If you listen to audiobooks, you may want to check out the audio version as it is a multicast production that really brings the story to life.

Review: FAIRLY CERTAIN by Deborah Ann Davis

Title: Fairly Certain Love of Fairs Series
Author: Deborah Ann Davis
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 196
Published by: D&D Universe, LLC; 1^st edition
Published Date: September 19, 2014
ISBN-10: 1942009011
ISBN-13: 978-1942009016

About the Story: What happens when a Computer Geek challenges a Medieval Outlaw?

Petir takes a rough tumble in the Connecticut woods, and awakens in the middle of old England. His instinct to freak out is tempered by the arrival of a fair maiden wearing a bow… and arrow. Throwing caution to the wind, Petir decides he has nothing to lose by pursuing Maid Rianne. But when she is captured by the enemy, a geek with no ability to defend himself must find a way to rescue the fair maiden.

My Thoughts:  Petir, left his two best friends, Chris and Jimmy behind to go geodashing.  They had been friends since childhood days, but now with the responsibilities of students in college and living accommodations, they bailed.

From the beginning of this seriously interesting read, I couldn’t tell for sure what had happened to Petir other than he got lost in the forest, climbed a tree and fell out of it, knocking himself senseless.  Petir couldn’t tell either.  When he regained consciousness, people were lording him and talking in British accents!  He was hurt, no doubt, but to wake up to these weird people poking him was just a little much.  They reminded Petir of Robinhood and his merry men.  Did he time travel? Nah!  Not possible.  Was he dreaming?  Well, Petir was fairly certain he was dreaming.  When the dream was in such detail, involving a lovely spitfire, Maid Rianne, he stopped wishing he’d wake up to wishing he wouldn’t wake up.  Maid Rianne soon became Maid Hottie, for Petir could not take his eyes or mind off her.

Petir was a geek, pure and simple, just like his friends.  Geeks are known to be tongue-tied around girls and generally just watch them from a far because they feel they come up short compared to a guy with muscle.  They have brain and very little brawn. However, in this dream, Petir was no geek.  He spoke to the maid and was bold enough to kiss her (not immediately, mind you).  The way Petir saw it, this was his dream and he’d manipulate it to make it fit what he wanted.  Each night he’d fall asleep hoping he’d continue dreaming.  Maybe he was in a coma?

Petir learned a lot while dreaming.  He learned how to use his crutch to….well suffice it to say he learned a lot and something about himself, too.  But all good things come to an end, right?  Or do they?

A credible fun read–great entertainment and since the author has taught school, she must know the workings or insecurity (or not, as noted with Petir) of geek minds.  I’m ready for book 2!  Bring it on! Would it be impetuous of me to be ‘fairly certain’ you’ll enjoy this series? When you read this book, I’d like to get your take on the healer (stop by and comment). Might she had something to do with Petir’s predicament?  I’m not convinced she didn’t!

About the Author: DEBORAH ANN DAVIS has been writing since she was assigned to keep a Journal in her 5^th grade English class. She began to look around for writing inspiration. Lo and behold, she found her world was full of funny stories just waiting to be told. As she grew older, occasionally she could manipulate one into some school assignment, but it never occurred to her to pursue writing, not even when she discovered her flare for telling stories at college parties.

After a string of college majors, she realized she could have a captive audience EVERY DAY in the public school system. As it turns out, teenagers love to laugh, and what could be more entertaining than Biology, Earth Science, and Environmental Science? Then there’s the added bonus that once kids know you like to laugh, they want to make you laugh.

In addition to Writing, she is also an Educational Speaker and a Certified Personal Trainer. She taught for 25+ years, although somewhere in the middle of all that educating, she stepped out of teaching for 6 years to do the Mommy Thing, and run the office for their family construction company.

Even though they had followed separate paths, Deborah reunited with, and married her childhood sweetheart twelve years after their first kiss.  Together they coached their daughter’s AAU Basketball Team, which swept States two years in a row. (Yay!) Then, for several years their daughter and their money went to college.

They currently reside on a lovely lake in Connecticut. Deborah enjoys dabbling with living a sustainable life, writing novels for her Love of Fairs series, dancing, playing outside, and laughing really hard every day. She promotes increasing the amount of movement throughout your day via Wiggle Writer posts on Merry Meddling, her blog at www.DeborahAnnDavis.com. Follow her @DeborahAnnDavis.

Review: A MINOR, A NOVEL OF LOVE, MUSIC & MEMORY

“Leonard Bernstein said, ‘Music is the only art which does not require the censorship of the brain before reaching the heart.’” – A Minor

 “When a talent can reach into the heart of an individual, whether listener, performer or reader, he/she has succeeded. For talent, given to those fortunate, is a gift to be shared.” Booktalk with Eileen 

Title: A Minor, a Novel of Love, Music & Memory
Author: Margaret Ann Philbrick
Genre: Coming of Age, Literary Fiction
Published by: Koehler Books
Published Date: June 1, 2014
ISBN-10: 193846799X
ISBN-13: 978-1938467998

Synopsis: Clive Serkin, a teenage piano prodigy, seeks victory at the Tchaikovsky Piano Competition in Moscow, and enlists the help of world-renowned pianist Clare Cardiff. She becomes his mentor and teacher, and even though she is more than twice his age, Clive finds himself falling in love with her. After Clare is diagnosed with early-onset dementia, Clare’s estranged husband Nero takes her away from Clive to pursue further medical testing. Clive is faced with the challenge of traveling to Moscow and performing at the competition without his beloved mentor. Ultimately, he must discover if the music they share is enough to keep them together.

Purchase links on Amazon:
Paperback
ebook

My Thoughts:  Clare Cardiff, a beautiful, talented woman of 50, was the pivotal character in this rather emotionally complex read.  She touched two lives most deeply, her husband, Nero, and her piano student, Clive Serkin, who was destined to win the much coveted Tchaikovsky Piano Competition, held in the Great Hall of Moscow every four years.  Fictitious main characters, the setting is authentic.  It was apparent that author Margaret Ann Philbrick did her homework researching on many levels.

Nero, Clare’s husband, after 30 years of marriage and not able to tap into his own talent of pottery making, had asked for a divorce. Nero comes to the conclusion life with or without Clare is intolerable. Nero, I don’t believe is healthy mentally blames Clare for not being able to carry their babe to term.  Full of hurt and jealousy, he is in the intolerable position of not really being a partner within the marriage – just a chauffeur.  But for those 30 years he had served her well.

Clare escapes into her music, being a person who knows many languages and commits her music to memory easily.  Clare turns to Nero when she needs him, when she finds she has severe medical issues. Nero takes her back to the farm and further testing.  He cares, yet has a volatile, emotional temper which very often verges on abuse. After Clare left him, he began morose and had a macabre attachment to a piece of pottery he created.  Suffice it to say, their relationship was a painful, complicated one.

Clare meets Clive Serkin when she separates from Nero for a time to give them a chance to understand what they want. Just 17, a Jew who has wandered from his roots somewhat, lives in a Jewish community and whose father is a famous symphony director.  Rather than continue with her concert circuit with Nero, she settles into a university setting to teach piano.

Upon meeting Clive, they connect, both musically and spiritually.  She decides to pass the  wand to this talented young man, teaching him what she knows. The connection grows into a close friendship, bonding through the talent and love of playing piano. She instills in Clive something he had lacked in his interpretation of music previously. And once he connected with this concept, he had people weep listening to him play for his hands spoke the contents of his heart.

Clare loved him as a son she never had.  Clive loved her as a young boy on the cusp of truly being a man, yet innocently.    It was very sweet and tender worthy of many tears.  Again, the author depicted this relationship perfectly–innocent with the purist of love.

Clive had wonderful family support Clive.  Spiritually, his old teacher and the Rabbi and yes, even Clare balance what this young man needed.

One point I haven’t mentioned is Clare is faced with losing all, she has been diagnosed with early on-set dementia.  To a concert pianist this is devastating.

Are you an aspiring concert pianist or an artist of another media?  You will love this story.

I know you will enjoy this book.  It is not the typical read.  As I write this review two days after I’ve finished it, I shed tears for the absolutely emotional rollercoaster Clive endured and as a reader I did, too. I connected most closely with all these characters. I will always remember this wonderful book.  Ms. Philbrick, I bow to your inspiration and handling of a most delicate story.

About the Author: Margaret Philbrick is an author, gardener and teacher who desires to plant seeds in hearts. Margaret has a B.A. in English Literature from Trinity University in San Antonio Tx.and a Masters in Teaching from National Louis University. She teaches writing and literature to children and teens at The Greenhouse School and H.S.U., both of which provide supplemental classical education to the home-school community. She is actively involved in the fulfillment of God’s vision at Church of the Resurrection and the Redbud Writers Guild where she serves on the board of both organizations. Her first book, Back to the Manger, is a holiday gift book she created with her mother, an oil painter. You can find Margaret in her garden digging in the dirt or writing poetry and you can connect with her on-line via her website at: http://www.margaretphilbrick.com.

Review: A PLAIN ADVENTURE by Cyndi Lord ~ an Amish story

Life for Kristi just couldn’t get any tougher.  Many teenagers find themselves facing some of the very issues she faces. A great book for the young teen and a intriguing read for an adult perhaps trying to understand a very angry one.

Title: A Plain Adventure The Plain Series, book 2
Author: Cyndi Lord
Genre: Young Adult, Coming of Age
Pages: 294
Published by: White Bird Publication
Published Date: March 17, 2015
ISBN-10: 1633630870
ISBN-13: 978-1633630871

The Plain Series:
A Plain Wish
A Plain Adventure
A Plain Love releasing winter, 2015

Publisher’s Summary: Kristi Becker ran away from Batesville, Indiana after her parents divorced. Once she made it to her Amish friend, Betty Miller’s house in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, she learned about family life grounded in God. Thinking her grandmother lives in Lancaster, Kristi’s dream of finding and regaining the love she once remembered will soon be fulfilled. When she learns her grandmother had moved to Clarksville, Texas, Kristi decided to drive across the country with her friend, Betty, and friend’s brother, Jacob. While they journey in A Plain Adventure, they encounter fears, trials, challenges, and something else happens. Is Jacob, the Amish young man, falling in love with the Englischer, rebellious, Kristi? In Texas, conflicts begin in ways Kristi never anticipated. In the end, love prevails, but what will the future bring?

My Thoughts: I realize this is a series and not reading the first book put me in the middle of an issue where I would have benefitted if I understood why Kristi had such anger issues and why she took such drastic risks by running away from home. Therefore reader, my suggestion is to read book one, A Plain Wish before you read A Plain Adventure.

Kristi reaches out to her pen pal, Betty, an Amish girl from Lancaster. She runs from home and stays with her family. In book two she is driving her new car, registered in her dad’s name, taking her friend Betty and her brother Jacob to visit her grandmother who now lives in Texas.

These two young people have never been outside an Amish community. All the gadgets we take for granted are completely new and sometimes frightening. This story not only is a good read, but we learn about the Amish who most people know very little about. The Amish in general don’t believe in hitting or hugging, they should never be rude, a man shouldn’t do ‘women’s work’, they are hardworking, early risers, soft spoken and speak very directly.

Kristi is looking for love. She has found it in Betty’s family. She remembers how much she enjoyed being with her grandmother and was disappointed she had left Lancaster moving to Texas. Kristi wants to belong to a family who loves each other. Her divorced mom and dad had remarried giving Kristi no sense of belonging. Strong and spirited, not willing to settle for the choice her parents gave her, she seeks her grandmother who she remembers as loving.

I was intrigued what Kristi’s friends thought and reacted about certain events and was charmed by the way they spoke and the way Jacob took care of his younger sister Betty. I understood the author spent some time with the Amish to better understand their people and community.

Kristi Becker was a young girl with lots of anger issues and blamed the course of her life on her dad. Her dad had taken her home from her and wanted to separate her from her friends and grandmother. As a character, I had problems connecting with Kristi. She seemed to have two personalities, one she kept for her Amish friends and her grandmother and the other for her father or anyone who gets in her way for what she wants. However, that being said, with all her flaws, I see the hurt person behind all she does.

We briefly meet Kristi’s father who is a frustrated parent having reached the end of his rope. The author portrays his frustration and anger superbly as well as the overwhelming anger Kristi is going through. Her dialog was right on.

I first learned of Ms. Lord’s talent when I read her mystery, They Call Me Murdered. She is presently working on the second of that series, They Call Me Missing.

I was pleasantly surprised she had ‘tucked in’ Sandra Derringer, a private investigator, into The Plain Series, as neighbor to Becky’s grandmother. Ms. Lord writes quality stories. By the time I finished with book 2, I was very interested in going back to book 1 and experience all this teenager had. It’s not easy being a teen-ager. They sometimes lash out without thought, but not necessarily without cause. Book 3 releases winter 2015 titled A Plain Love.

I very much recommend this book for young adults and older readers who delight in reconnecting with the hardest time in a person’s life – being a teenager.

About the Author: Cyndi Lord moved to North East Texas in 2005 where she lives on a ranch with her husband, two dogs, and two cats. An award winning author, she recently decided to go into semi-retirement from her career as a private investigator and research paralegal in order to write full time. Her novels incorporate her professional experience into the plots readers love to unravel along with the investigator.

She is active in a ministry to the homeless and enjoys many aspects of philosophy. As an animal lover, she is a vegan, and strong voice against cruelty to animals. Cyndi and her husband have nine adult children, sixteen grandchildren and one great-grandchild. For tranquility she loves to work in the garden, and bake. Painting nature scenes is her favorite joy after writing.

Audiobook Review: THE SWEETEST KISS by Marie Higgins

Life experiences and challenges change who we are. Some of us would not have it so… Can it be said once a rogue, always a rogue?

Title: The Sweetest Kiss: Sons of Worthington, Book 1
Author: Marie Higgins
Genre: Regency Romance, Clean Read
Story Setting: England, 1822
Pages: 308
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Published Date: November 11, 2011
ASIN: B0066HBZBE

Narrated by: Valerie Gilbert
Length: 10 hours, 18 minutes
Release Date: October 3, 2014
Publisher: Marie Higgins

Publisher’s Summary: Lord Trey Worthington isn’t about to give his heart to a woman. He does not want a marriage like his parents. But when his mother brings in a childhood acquaintance into the home to sponsor into society, Trey has to get Miss Faraday trained properly. The more he gets to know Judith, the more he yearns for something he doesn’t dare reach for. Judith is after a faithful husband – something Trey has been convinced most of his life he’ll never become.

Judith Faraday is only after one thing – to marry her Naval Officer and enjoy a life full of love. She’s doubtful her dream will ever come true while living as the ward to the dowager duchess. However, the longer Judith is with the dowager’s son Trey, an attraction blossoms. Judith now wonders if God has different plans for her life, because Trey doesn’t believe in the sanctity of marriage – the very thing Judith cannot do without.

©2011 Marie Higgins (P)2014 Marie Higgins

My Thoughts: The story along with the narration were appealing with lovable characters. I enjoyed the listen even more so as the story picked up its pace. Narrator Valerie Gilbert entertained me with her storytelling technique and wit. It gave the listen just that more sparkle. She had just the right amount of sarcasm and sass to Judith’s voice. As I listened I almost felt it was a satire on the silly traditions the ton lived by.

As childhood neighbors, Judith and Trey did not get on. Trey was a devilish young lad and played many tricks doing hurtful things to Judith which Judith remembered as an adult. She didn’t care to get to know Trey as an adult. Yet, through circumstances, she was obliged to, and being the humorous person she was, she spent her time ‘getting back’ at him unaware she encouraged his attentions.

Judith was a bit spoiled, quite independent, naïve, had a temper, yet possessed a great sense of humor. She didn’t want to have a Season, nor did she want the dowager to bring her out. All she wanted was to find her true love, Alex. The only person who knew about Alex was Trey. Trey had made her a promise. He would help find him if she allowed his mother to sponsor her for a season.

Both Lord Trey and Judith could not deny the attraction they held for each other. Judith was hoping for a kiss from him, and once she received it, the allure of the naval officer became less so and she started questioning whether she truly loved Alex, for he didn’t make her feel the way Trey did.

I enjoyed the relationship Lord Trey had with Lord Dominick, his best friend. Lord Dominick was a very likeable rogue adding a lot to this story and surely will have a story of his own later in the series. Both Lord Trey and Lord Dominique weren’t interested in married life. They were men only interested in their rakish ways and freedom.

The shoe drops.  Alex returns, full of surprises.

About the Author: Marie Higgins is a multi-published author of romance; from refined bad-boy heroes who makes your heart melt to the feisty heroines who somehow manage to love them regardless of their faults. Visit her website / blog to discover more about her – http://mariehiggins84302.blogspot.com

About the Narrator: Valerie Gilbert is a native New Yorker. A background in acting (plays, comedies, musicals) morphed over time into solo work, including stand-up comedy, autobiographical one woman shows, and storytelling competitions. The transition was then made to writing. As a result, Raving Violet, Memories, Dreams & Deflections: My Odyssey Through Emotional Indigestion, and her latest, Swami Soup, were published.

Her writing is non-fiction, intensely personal, with a focus on philosophy, personal growth, and metaphysics, all with liberal doses of humor, her trademark. Yet another avenue of expression became available to her when she started producing her own audio books, first, Raving Violet, then 67 for other authors, as well as her own Memories, Dreams & Deflections and Swami Soup.

Valerie now teaches psychic development and personal growth classes at Namaste Healing Center in New York City. She is currently writing her fourth book. Her website is Raving Violet.

Audiobook Review: RED, The True Reign Series, Book 2

Discover a new author if you don’t already know about Jennifer Lee Davis. I absolutely love this series! Don’t miss out!

Title: RED, The True Reign Series, Book 2
Author: Jennifer Anne Davis
Genre: Historical Romance, Medieval, Teen & Young Adult
Pages: 366
Published By: Clean Teen Publishing
Release Date: February 14, 2014
ISBN-10: 1940534712 I
SBN-13: 978-1940534718

Listening Length: 9 hours, 41 minutes
Published By: Clean Teen Publishing
Release Date: March 23, 2015
ASIN: B00VF1PXJG

Publisher’s Summary: Sentenced to be executed. Betrayed. Alone. Hung on the gallows. Rema thought her life was over, but she was wrong. Saved by a rebel force she’d only ever heard rumors about, Rema finds herself in a forbidden place. She is finally safe-free from the king and Prince Lennek. But not everything is as it seems at the rebel fortress. Secrets are whispered, and loyalties are tested. Once Rema uncovers the truth of her heritage, will she flee? Or will she ascend to the throne, taking on the responsibility of an entire kingdom? Now that Darmik knows Rema’s true identity, he’s on a quest to save her. But when an Emperion assassin arrives on Greenwood Island, Darmik knows he doesn’t have very long to find her. In a deadly game with high stakes, will Darmik remain loyal to his family? Or will he break away and join the rebels? Kingdoms rise and fall. Heroes are born and made. But one thing remains the same-love conquers all.

My Thoughts: When last Ms. Davis left me hanging in book one, I could not believe it! Truly, if you were there, you’d hear me groan. But now after book 2, can I howl? Am I allowed to howl? Believe me I am! This author is killing me! Another cliffhanger in book two and I know not if I’m able to deal!

I have never, EVER looked at how many hours I have left to listen. Okay, three. I’m thinking, can this thing be resolved in three hours? Then two hours, I hesitate to even consider. But my dear reader, I KNOW that 30 minutes won’t make this thing any better. I KNOW I’m at another cliff hanger. I’m howling!!!!

What started in book one, continues in the second. More ratcheting of anxiety clutching my heart and soul. Why haven’t I heard of this author before? Take a peek at my book 1 review http://wp.me/p40XtX-LI.

Narrator Paul Woodson I’ve met before. He’s really good with what he does, fully bringing a story to life. He has narrated for Lily Baldwin and Amy Jerecki. I’m thrilled to see him tackling this series. Readers, I do hope you’ll listen to this marvelous writer. I don’t toy with you! I’m so excited to find another writer that turns me on! I pray the gods will look kindly upon me and grant me the opportunity to continue the series ASAP!

About the Author: I graduated with Department Honors from the University of San Diego with a degree in English. While working to earn my teaching credential, I was a legal assistant for an attorney. That’s about the time I finally married my high school sweetheart. Once I received my credential from USD, I taught high school English until I had my first child.

Currently I am a stay-at-home mom. I have three kids, one large dog, and a gecko.

A couple of years ago, I entered a writing contest about motherhood and won.  My satirical essay, “Caution: Warning Label Not Included!” was published in the anthology Manual for Motherhood, reaching number one in the Parenting section of Amazon!  This sparked my need to write on a daily basis, and I have been writing ever since!

My debut young adult novel The Voice was published by Lands Atlantic in January 2013. The Voice is a finalist in the 2014 Next Generation Indie Book Awards: Young Adult Category (dubbed the Sundance of the book publishing world), and the winner of the 2013 San Diego Book Awards: Best Young Adult Book.

My next adventure, The True Reign Series, is a young adult historical fantasy series consisting of three books (The Key, Red, and War), all now available.

The Power to See, my only adult novel was rereleased through Crimson Tree Publishing, and is now available.

I’ve always had a passion for reading and writing.  Being transported into another world and experiencing things beyond my imagination–what could be better? Besides being an outlet and a love, I hope to write books that encourage all to read.

About the Narrator, Paul Woodson: Narrator Paul Woodson records, edits, and master audiobooks commissioned by authors and publishers through Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX). He’s been an AEA and SAG actor for almost 20 years, with most of his work in Theater. He studied theater at Boston University’s BFA program with work in classical theater, dialect and vocal training. When he was a lad (love that word) his family lived in England where his father did graduate work at Cambridge. I asked Paul how he had such great accents in this reading. His answer was thus:

“Perhaps the immersion at a young age, plus my frequent portrayal of Englishmen and Scotsmen has kept my dialects sharp over the years.”

He has narrations of 40 books presently on Amazon. If you are a medieval romance historical romance reader, check out his narrations of books from Ceci Giltenan and Lily Baldwin and now Jennifer Lee Davis. If any of my author friends need a narrator who speaks French and German among other talents, seek him out.

 

Greatly entertained with this middle school listen, BLACKHEART’S LEGACY by Sally Copus narrated by Paul Woodson

What a fantastic adventure! Meant to be for 9 through 14 year olds, but I’m telling you right now, I found it exciting with time travel to 1692, Port Royal, Jamaica Islands. It’s everything a youngster would love and those of us ‘oldies’ ready to travel to far-off lands. But this time travel was an ‘oops’, almost ending in disaster.

“Traveling with Jon on his journey has enriched my life,” says Copus. “I can’t wait to see where he takes me next and what we find there.”

Title: BlackHeart’s Legacy: The Odyssey of Jon Sinclair, book one
Author: Sally Copus
Genre: Fantasy action adventure touching on real events
Ages: Level: 9 to 14; enjoyed by those looking of adventure on the seas
Pages: 331
Published by: Create Space, 1^st edition
Published Date: August 28, 2012
ASIN: B0093MUYXE

 

 

The Odyssey of Jon Sinclair Series:
Book 1 Blackheart’s Legacy
Book 2 The Keys to Atlantis
Book 3 Not titled, but will be in the 24^th century

Publisher’s Summary

Jon Sinclair is a precocious 12-year-old boy, living with grandparents who have a very unique hobby: time travel. Having already made several trips in the time capsule known as the Carousel, Jon and his grandmother plan a trip back to July 4, 1776, to watch the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

But things go horribly awry when the computer system of their space  ship malfunctions, and they are thrust onto the shores of Port Royal, Jamaica, in 1692. As his grandmother works to repair the back-in-time ship, Jon wanders off on his own…and is promptly kidnapped by the notorious pirate, Captain BlackHeart. Forced into the role of cabin boy, Jon does his best to adapt to a rugged life at sea as his grandparents embark on a desperate search to find him.

Will Jon survive his frightening ordeal? Or will he meet his fate at the hands of rival pirates – or, worse yet, as the result of a tidal wave that threatens to destroy the entire pirate stronghold?

Filled with excitement, mystery, and harrowing danger, BlackHeart’s Legacy, Book One in the Odyssey of Jon Sinclair trilogy, is a thrilling time-travel adventure that will captivate listeners of all ages.

©2010 Sally Ann Copus (P)2015 Sally Ann Copus

My Thoughts: What a fun adventure with Jon and his Grammy and later Allistair at the infamous Pirates’ Babylon, better known as Port Royal in the Jamaican Islands.

We didn’t know where we were when we eventually reappeared other than it was 1692. However, Sally Copus did a terrific job, along with narrator Paul Woodson, through her words and his way of storytelling to bring us up to speed. We saw the forest where the Carousel landed, the town of Port Royal with ships in the harbor, the pirates and people a little unsavory.

Jon separates from his grandmother (not such a good idea Jon), however this creates a bunch of adventure we shared with Jon. Grammy, dressed as a young lad, eventually locates Jon when she cleverly listens for any word from the men coming off the ships.

Now BlackHeart was an unusual pirate and we find out how in the storytelling. SharkScar was one scary character and a true evil man who never seemed to disappear — always reappearing and creating havoc, both for BlackHeart and then for the Sinclairs. Each pirate tried to outmaneuver the other to get to sunken treasures.

I learned a lot with this listen and that’s just the way I like it.  The pirates used a bell diving apparatus a predecessor of diving equipment.  It truly existed.  Any time a story piques my interest in a historical event and gives me insight to the workings of people’s minds, I say it was very much worth the read.

The special black opal ring BlackHeart wore was very intriguing, adding the spice of the paranormal. I hope we hear more about this gem in the following stories of the series. I love the fantasy mix with some real events, although it had me googling to try to know fact from fiction.

Yes, my readers, there was an earthquake in 1692 that dropped part of Port Royal into the sea and if you go to that small town and do some skin diving, you’ll see a city under water. I wonder how much treasure is left buried in that area. Ah, more googling will help me find my answers.

Ms. Copus entertained me greatly at the same time as providing me knowledge about the past. I was surprised how engaged I was when it was geared for middle school.  Narrator Paul Woodson truly brought to life the characters with his depiction of pirates and their unsavory thoughts with his usual superb performance.

Some things I take away from the story: Not all spoken is the truth, nor are appearances necessarily reality. People of the 17^th century were as we see them today: some good men and women trying to make a difference, some people need to be given a helping hand to help themselves, other people are guided by greed and nothing will deter them from their path.

Great trailer for Blackheart’s Legacy to get in the mood for a wonderful narration by none other than Paul Woodson! https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=57&v=_yXpOfwBgxE

About the Author: Sally Copus is enjoying a second career as a full-time writer. The former CEO of a large direct marketing firm, she combines her extensive world travels with a love of history to bring the past to life for young readers.

BlackHeart’s Legacy is the first book in The Odyssey of Jon Sinclair series, followed by the highly anticipated Keys to Atlantis.

Copus resides in a pre-Civil War home built in 1850 that overlooks the majestic Missouri River in historic Lexington, Missouri. She draws inspiration from her surroundings and her four grandchildren.

Read more on author’s website: www.sallycopus.com She has some wonderful images of the characters, treasures and cannons.